Harima

Harima is a town in Hyōgo Prefecture that spans approximately 9 square kilometers, including two artificial islands that form a substantial portion of its territory. These islands, Niijima and Higashiniijima, sit along the Seto Inland Sea and shape the layout of the community.

The settlement traces its origins to the village of Ae during the Edo Period, when it was part of Himeji Domain. It gained official town status in 1962, marking a transition in the area's modern development.

The Harima Archaeological Materials Museum displays artifacts from the ancient Onaka settlement, offering a window into daily life during the Yayoi period. Visitors can see tools and objects that belonged to people who lived in this coastal area centuries ago.

The town is accessible via JR West services on the Sanyo Main Line and National Route 250, which link it to surrounding areas. These transportation options make it straightforward to reach from nearby urban centers.

The artificial islands host heavy chemical industries as part of the Harima Seaside Industrial Zone, which has shaped the region's character for decades. This industrial focus distinguishes the area from many other small coastal communities in Japan.

Location: Hyōgo Prefecture

Location: Kako district

Inception: April 1, 1889

Reference: 283827

Shares border with: Kakogawa, Akashi

Website: https://town.harima.lg.jp

GPS coordinates: 34.71525,134.86806

Latest update: December 20, 2025 00:30