West Japan: Kansai Region
KYOTO
See how we explore Kyoto with our Kyoto Travelogue
NARA
Roughly an hour from Kyoto rests the ancient capital of Nara. Enjoy a stroll through Nara Park while playing with deer and enter through the massive gates of the Todaiji temple which houses the World’s largest bronze Buddha statue. As the first capital of Japan, Nara is famous for hosting several of Japan’s oldest national treasures and temples.
OSAKA
In contrast to Tokyo's up-scale, polished image, Osaka has a more lively, light-hearted atmosphere. Being the second largest metropolis in Japan, you still get to experience urban life in Japan but without all the rush and stress that comes with the capital thanks to the approachable, outgoing nature of the locals. The historic markets not only retains the same spirited atmosphere since the Edo period, but is also a great place to discover specialized local goods while engaging in lively conversations with the merchants. Their period of prosperity is reflected in the grand architecture, many of which have survived to this day.
KOBE
Sitting between the clear sea and majestic mountain ranges, Kobe is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Japan. Its position of a port city brought Western influences to Japan since ancient times. The city's compact size makes for a perfect day-trip if visiting from Osaka or Kyoto.
HIMEJI
Home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of what is considered to be the most beautiful castle, Himeji Castle, is the lovely town of Himeji. Also be sure to visit Koko-en Garden, Himeji Central Park, Engyō-ji Temple, Himeji City Museum, and more while treating yourself to some of the popular street food, such as gujayaki savory pancake and takoyaki octopus balls.
TAMBA/SASAYAMA
The Sasayama area has long served as the stage for the famous Tamba-yaki pottery, which the area has become known for. Learn about the rich history of the area while enjoying the sights of the town and the natural beauty of the area. Driving past rice paddies and vegetable fields, bamboo groves, and sparsely scattered traditional homes, you will be able to view a side of Japan that a majority of Japanese city-dwellers rarely if ever get a chance to see. Experience a dynamic yet different way of life that parallels the high-speed lifestyle of Japan's metropolis.
TOKI Tamba/sasayama Experiences and tours
Discover Tamba Style Ceramic with a Master Potter and Artist
Make Soba Noodles at a Michelin Star Restaurant
ISE
Ise is the spiritual home of Japan and Shinto Religion, housing the majestic Ise Grand Shrine, or Ise Jingu. The Inner Shrine (Naiku), which honors the sun goddess Amaterasu, and the Outer Shrine (Geku) are the two major shrines that make up Ise Jingu and are rebuilt every few decades in accordance to the Shinto belief about death and rebirth. There are also hundreds of smaller shrines spread across the area. Immerse yourself in Shintoism and its serenity and find yourself purified. Between the shrines are neighborhoods that capture the atmosphere of the Edo and Meiji periods where you can find chic shops and eateries. The beautiful sea in the area is also the birthplace of the Japanese representative jeweler Mikimoto's warm, naturally golden pearls.
MATSUSAKA
Matsusaka City is a small historical merchant town located on the way to Ise. What makes the name “Matsusaka” so famous among Japanese is top quality beef produced from Matsusaka beef cattle grown locally.
ASUKA
Asuka was the center of Japan’s ancient history as the home of the first emperor and the roots of Buddhism. Nowadays, these historical assets or remains such as Ishibutai Tumulus, small temples, stone structures can be best explored by bicycle through scenic landscapes and rice terraces.
MT.KOYA
At Mount Koya, the temples and pagodas give the mountain an unparalleled atmosphere of Japan's spiritual and cultural depth. Visit the birthplace of the Shingon Sect of Buddhism founded by one of Japan's most influential religious figures, Kobo Daishi, or Kukai, in 805. The mountain is a popular place to experience shukubo, or temple lodging, where you can experience the life of a monk. Escape the complexities of modern life and empty your heart of all its burdens. Together with its spirituality, traditional, and natural beauty, Mount Koya has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.