The Kansai region encompassing Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, and more, is a captivating blend of tradition and modernity. Explore ancient temples like Todaiji Temple, savour local delicacies such as okonomiyaki, and immerse yourself in the warm hospitality of Kansai locals.
Where to go in Kansai
Shiga
Shiga prefecture is next to Kyoto, just 15-20 minutes by local train. The largest lake in Japan, Lake Biwa, has places for outdoor activities from SUP to Skiing. Hop on a lake Biwa cruise to visit Chikubujima, one of the islands which is popular as a spiritual place.
Kyoto
Top sightseeing destination outside of Tokyo in West Japan. Alluring temples and shrines are scattered in this fascinating city. Visiting Kyoto is a great opportunity to learn ancient history and encounter the beauty of historical architectures blended in with nature.
Osaka
The second largest city in Japan is located 500km away from Tokyo, neighbouring then capital cities Kyoto and Nara. The character of the city and the very friendly nature of its people mark Osaka as flamboyant. Dotonbori Street and Shinsaibashi Shopping Street are full of energy and great places to experience the chaos of Osaka.
Wakayama
Koya-san, which was established by Kobo-Daishi is located at the altitude of 800m on a mountain basin. It has different beautiful faces for each season. Eko-in Temple in Koya-san runs a shukubo, where you can stay in a temple setting inn. Eko-in offers healthy and well-presented Shojin cuisine which is suitable for everyone including vegans.
Hyogo
Osaka’s next-door neighbour to the west, this prefecture has the fascinating port city Kobe, 1 hour away from Osaka by local trains. Strong influence from oversea trades in the past made this city unique and exotic. Arima Hot Spring is one of the three oldest hot spring resorts in Japan with nearly 1400 years of history. The hot spring is great for keeping moisture in your skin. Impressive Himeji Castle is a must to visit.
Nara
Nara city is about 1 hour away to the east of Osaka. A World Heritage site Kasuga Taisha shrine stores many national and important cultural treasures and is also famous as a great place for beautiful Wisteria. Enjoy feeding wild deer roaming in the Nara Park with special rice crackers.
Mie
This village was once the centre of the 1870s gold rush. You’ll see many of the original buildings, like the Royal Hotel, the general store and the newspaper office (where the Irish editor kept a pair of loaded pistols on his desk), as you walk up the steep hill to the village.
