Japan is always on the bucket list of many. Because of its ancient culture and amazing natural landscapes, people are intrigued by its charm. In addition to that, the country has a dazzling modernity.
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One of the locations to visit is the Kansai Region in the southern- central part. The region is full of best places to visit in Japan. It is the cultural and historical center and has many UNESCO World Heritage Listings. Major places to explore are Osaka, Kyoto and Nara.
Tip: Book fun activities, tours and many other via Klook. Easy and hassle free!
Below are some of the best places to visit in Japan, Kansai Region:
KYOTO
Shrines and temples (the best and worth- visiting ones, there are thousands of them in Kyoto alone):
- Fushimi Inari Taisha- famous for the thousands of torii gates
- Tofukuji- a Zen Temple popular to have a spectacular view of trees during autumn
- Kinkakuji- the famous golden temple
- Kiyomizu- built in 778 and one of the oldest historical sites
- Ryoanji- famous for its rock garden
- Tenryuji- famous for the preserved garden that is built in its original form
- Ginkakuji- known as the silver pavilion with well manicured gardens
- Honganji- place to experience contemporary Japanese Buddhism
Palace, villa and historic districts:
- Kyoto Imperial Palace- the former official residence of the Japanese Imperial Family before transferring to Tokyo
- Katsura Imperial Villa- renowned to have the most beautiful gardens in Japan
- Higashiyama- experience here the traditional old Kyoto– wooden buildings and traditional shops
- Gion- known as the geisha district; filled with shops, restaurants and tea houses where geisha entertain
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Gardens and parks:
- Arashiyama- Famous for the bamboo forest. Perfect spot during cherry blossom season.
- Kibune- starting point of the hiring trail to the mountain temple, Kurama- dera. Location of dining experience over the river.
- Kurama- a rural town famous as place to experience legit hot springs
- Philosopher’s Path- famous trail for cherry blossoms
- Maruyama Park- perfect spot for cherry blossoms
Modern places:
- Kyoto Tower- tallest building in the city and a famous landmark after the ancient temples and shrines
- Railway Museum- learn about the history of Japan’s railway system
- Manga Museum- browse and enjoy the massive collection of manga
Tip: It is best to book organised tours and activities. You can book via Klook!
OSAKA
Castle, shrine and temple:
- Osaka Castle- the center of attraction of the Osaka Castle Park. Surrounded by secondary citadels, gates, turrets and stone walls. The garden is a perfect spot during cherry blossom season.
- Sumiyoshi Taisha- displays the unique styles of shrine architecture, Sumiyoshi-zukuri.
- Shitennoji Temple- you will find here pagoda that has been built during the introduction of Buddhism in Japan. Gokuraku-jodo Garden is part of the attraction.
Modern places:
- Shinsaibashi, Minami District- for shoppaholics, there are hundreds of shops lined up. Perfect place to buy cheap products and souvenirs you can only find in Osaka
- Dotonbori, Minami District- entertainment center, shopping and food destination
- Umeda Sky Building Observatory- an open- air observation deck where you’ll see 360 degree views of the city
- Osaka Aquarium- one of the world’s largest tanks with wide variety of displaces of marine life. One of the attractions in Tempozan, Osaka Bay Area.
- Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel- with a height of 112 meters, it offers panoramic views of the city. Located in Osaka Bay Area, Tempozan Harbor Village.
- Universal Studios Japan– discover the magic and wizardry in Harry Potter Village.
Food hubs:
- Naniwa Food Theme Park- set old- style but fun theme, it showcases Osaka’s native dishes and specialties. Located in Tempozan Marketplace.
- Shinsekai District- find here kushikatsu shops and shogi parlors
- Kitashinci District- few minute walk from Osaka Station, you’ll find here multiple elegant restaurants
Tip: It is best to book organised tours and activities. You can book via Klook!
NARA
Temples, shrines and parks:
- Todaiji Temple- one of the largest with big Buddha statue
- Horyuji Temple- world’s oldest wooden buildings
- Kofukuji Temple- features several buildings of great historic value, including a five- story pagoda and a three-story pagoda
- Nara park- famous for the roaming wild deers. Perfect spot during cherry blossom season.
Tip: It is best to book organised tours and activities. You can book via Klook!
Maximise your trip in Kansai region to see the best places to visit in Japan. Check out the below fun activities and tours.
Kyoto and Nara Day Tour from Osaka/Kyoto
Kyoto Sagano Romantic Train, Arashiyama, Kiyomizudera &Fushimi Inari-taisha Day Tour
Kyoto Sagano Sightseeing Carriage Tour
Kyoto Perfect Day Tour from Osaka or Kyoto: Kiyomizu-dera, Fushimi Inari-taisha, Arashiyama & More
Kyoto Arashiyama, Golden Pavilion Temple, and Kobe MOSAIC Day Tour
Amanohashidate and Miyama Day Tour from Osaka/Kyoto
Nijo Castle and Ninomaru Palace Admission Ticket in Kyoto
Kyoto Aquarium Admission Ticket
Kuromon Market, Dotonbori Walking Tour, and Sushi Making Experience in Osaka
Osaka Castle, Kuromon Market, Dotonbori, and Museum of Housing and Living Day Tour
Samurai Ninja Experience at Miraiza Osaka-jo in Osaka
Downtown Osaka and Local Food Walk
Nara National Museum Ticket
Todaiji Temple, Nara Park, Kofukuji Temple Half Day Tour from Kyoto
Nara Kimono and Deer Experience Day Trip from Kyoto (with One Way Transfer)
You can also book your transportation and travel services in advance. Book it here!
The Freelance Traveler 