KANSAI
The name “Kansai” refers to the area consisting of Kyoto, Osaka, Hyogo, Shiga, Nara and Wakayama prefectures, which is located to the west of the old Checkpoint in Shiga prefecture that divided Japan into western and eastern area in the Edo era.*
Kansai has a unique bond within their area when it comes to their unique accent “Kansai-ben”, how they cook food, their passion for comedy or their pride in Japanese history as the old capital. In Kansai, you will find everything from historical sites to modern architecture, traditional festivals, the latest fashion, vibrant markets and peaceful rural villages.
*Different theories exist regarding the definition of “Kansai”
HIGHLIGHTS
KIOTO
A must visit place for everyone, even if it is your first time in japan or you are a repeater.
Kyoto was the ancient capital of Japan for more than 1000 years from 794 until 1868, shaping Japan’s culture and heritage. It’s historical legacy, inherited tradition and preserved buildings and houses continue to attract people from all over the world.
Get lost wandering through the narrow lantern-lit streets, along the tiny streams all surrounded by picturesque traditional houses and stone paving.
Kyoto is also the best place to find the finest handmade gifts, pottery, fabric and other traditional crafts of the best quality. Visit the most iconic and historically important temple and shrines.
Hyogo
Hyogo prefecture, located right next to Osaka, is connected to the Kansai and Setouchi region therefore has many different aspects to offer. Kobe city, most known for the exquisite “Kobe beef” is the most vibrant city surrounded by mountains and a lovely port town.
Further to the west, you can’t miss the World Heritage castle “Himeji-jo” especially in the cherry blossom season when the beautiful white castle blends in with the surrounding pink Sakura.
We also recommend exploring the island of Awajishima, which is said to be the place where Japan was born, based on Japan’s creation myth. Visit the oldest shrine in Japan “Izanagi Jingu”, where the first god of Japan who created this country is enshrined.
On this island you will find many places designed by the famous Japanese architect Tadao Ando, including the Awaji Yumebutai, Honpukuji Temple etc.
Kumano Kodo
Wakayama prefecture is located south of the Kii Peninsula in Kansai region.
Including Mount Koya, which is a large temple settlement, the area is a sacred land and place of faith for many Japanese.
Visit Mount Koya, the center of Shingon Buddhism, an important Buddhist sect which was introduced to Japan in 805 by Kobo Daishi (also known as Kukai), one of Japan’s most significant religious figures.
The Kumano kodo pilgrimage paths are not just a way to reach the three shrines,
Hongu Taisha, Nachi Taisha and Hayatama Taisha, but are a spiritual experience itself. These paths test pilgrims both physically and mentally. They are a way to purify yourself and show spirituality, to find yourself and to enjoy, respect and connect with nature.
ACCESS TO KANSAI
From Tokyo
-2-3 hours by bullet train to Kyoto Station or Shin Osaka Station.
From Kansai International Airport (KIX)
-Approximately 1h30min by car to the city center of Kyoto or Osaka
DISCOVER MORE ABOUT JAPAN
Stroll among the Historical White Wall and Adore the Encounter of Japanese and Western Art in Kurashiki, Okayama
An hour away from Osaka by bullet train, alongside the quiet stream with willows, the Kurashiki Bikan...
Architectural Marvels of Awajishima Island: Zenbo Seinei, Honpukuji, and Yumebutai by Tadao And
In Japanese mythology, it is said that when the two gods Izanagi and Izanami stirred the surface of the...
The Fusion of Tradition and Art: Exploring the Allure of Saga's Pottery
Saga, a name some people recognize for its coolness as a prefecture, is located in northwest Kyushu,...
Fashion Yourself up in Japanese Blue: Shop Quality Jeans Dyed with Indigo around the Setouchi
Tradition Meets New. Craftsman Towns in Okayama and Hiroshima Challenges Modern Clothing Culture
An hour...
Unveiling Kyushu's Liquid Treasures: Shochu from Kagoshima and Wine from Miyazaki
Did you know Kyushu is famous for their liquors? Kyushu is an island located in the southern part of...
Indulge in the Japanese Spirit of ZEN: Shinshoji Temple The Museum of Zen and Garden
Welcome to the world of Zen. Zen is a state of mind where your mind is free and uninhibited, so that...
The Setouchi International Art Triennale in Japan will Gain Global Attention Again in 2025, on 17 islands in the Seto Inland Sea
Don’t Miss the Setouchi International Art Festival, Opportunity Once in Three Years
Approximately 1 to...
The ultimate relaxation hot springs and Jigoku Meguri in OITA
We introduce you to an amazing hot spring area in Japan. Oita prefecture (especially Beppu region in...
HOME OF TONKOTSU RAMEN AND MORE
INDULGE IN A LOCAL FOODIE TRIP IN FUKUOKA
Fukuoka is a prefecture located on Kyushu island in the southern...
