The Kansai region is among the nation’s most popular regions – home to the world-famous cities of Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara. Whether you are wandering the quiet ancient streets of Kyoto or Nara, or experiencing the vibrant neon-lit streets of Osaka, Kansai is home to some of the best experiences in Japan.
See the serene Kinkaku-ji Golden Temple, the majestic Himeji Castle, enjoy thrills at Universal Studios Japan, or the peaceful Nachi Falls.
Kansai is also home to an abundance of delicious food, with popular foods such as Takoyaki or grilled octopus balls, the savoury Japanese pancake ‘Okonomiyaki’, and succulent Kobe Beef.
Top Destinations in Kansai
Kyoto Prefecture
Iwatayama Monkey Park
See Japanese Macaque Monkey's in Kyoto City
Katsura River – Kyoto
Scenic river area in Kyoto
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Instagram Famous Bamboo Grove
Tenryu-ji Temple
Zen temple with stunning gardens
Kimono Forest
Scenic art installation in Arashiyama
Amanohashidate
One of Japan's three great views
Osaka Prefecture
Dotonbori Ferris Wheel
Unique view of Dotonbori
Dōtonbori
Osaka's Vibrant Canal District
Abeno Harukas & Harukas 300
See Japan from one of the tallest buildings in the country.
Osaka Castle
Iconic landmark in Osaka
Ikeda Castle Ruins
Quiet castle ruins in northern Osaka
Minoh Falls
Relaxing waterfall, where Monkey's can often be spotted
Nara Prefecture
Kofuku-ji Temple
Large UNESCO Temple
Nara Park
Nara's famous deer park
Todai-ji Temple
Nara's Great Temple
Kasuga Taisha
Ancient temple in Nara
Mt. Wakakusa
Stunning view of Nara
Yakushi-ji Temple
7th Century Temple
Hyogo Prefecture
Akashi Kaikyo Bridge
Japan's Largest Suspension Bridge
Kobe Chinatown
Historic Chinatown in Kobe
Kobe Port Tower
Port tower with beautiful views of Kobe City
Sumaura Koen
Scenic hilltop park with Kobe views
Nunobiki Herb Garden
Scenic hillside garden with herbs, flowers, and ropeway views.
Himeji Castle
One of Japan's best preserved castles
Wakayama Prefecture
Okunoin Cemetery
Japan's Sacred Forest Cemetery
Seiganto-ji & Nachi Waterfalls
Iconic Temple and waterfall
Koyasan
Japan's Sacred Temple Town
Wakayama Castle
Castle reconstruction in Wakayama City
Mie Prefecture
Maruyama Senmaida
Hill of scenic rice paddies
Ise Grand Shrine
One of the oldest and most significant shrines in Japan
Rokkaen Gardens
Scenic garden and historical house
Shiga Prefecture
Shirahige Shrine
Shrine with a floating torii gate on Lake Biwa
Lake Biwa
Japan's Largest Lake
Hikone Castle
One of Japan's Original Feudal Era Castle
Iwatayama Monkey Park
See Japanese Macaque Monkey's in Kyoto City
Dotonbori Ferris Wheel
Unique view of Dotonbori
Dōtonbori
Osaka's Vibrant Canal District
Katsura River – Kyoto
Scenic river area in Kyoto
Abeno Harukas & Harukas 300
See Japan from one of the tallest buildings in the country.
Osaka Castle
Iconic landmark in Osaka
2 Days in Kyoto – Kyoto Itinerary
Ideas for your 2-day trip to Kyoto
Ikeda Castle Ruins
Quiet castle ruins in northern Osaka
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Instagram Famous Bamboo Grove
Minoh Falls
Relaxing waterfall, where Monkey's can often be spotted
Tenryu-ji Temple
Zen temple with stunning gardens
Kimono Forest
Scenic art installation in Arashiyama
Kishiwada Castle
Small castle grounds dating back to the 1300's
Explore Kansai
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Discover Japan like never before with the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass), your ticket to seamless travel across the Japan. Unlock the full potential of Japan’s extensive rail network, renowned for its punctuality, comfort, and convenience.
Discover Japan like never before with the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass), your ticket to seamless travel across the Japan. Unlock the full potential of Japan’s extensive rail network, renowned for its punctuality, comfort, and convenience. Read More…
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