Things to Do

Kansai Region

Kyoto

Shrines & Temples

Kinkaku-ji

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A golden pavilion nestled in the greens of Kitayama.

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• A Travel Guide to Enjoying Kinkaku-ji More Deeply

  Among Japan’s many temples, Kinkaku-ji is especially popular. The golden, shimmering building and gardens-created with the Pure Land in mind-are sure to captivate anyone who visits. Here, we’ll take a closer look at Kinkaku-ji’s highlights, history, access, admission fees, hours, and nearby sightseeing spots to help you fully appreciate its beauty.

Kyoto

Tourist Attractions

Sagano Bamboo Grove Trail

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Green bamboos grow up to create a canopy on this trail. A beloved spot in Kyoto.

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• [Togetsukyo Bridge Travel Guide] A Scenic Landmark and Iconic View Spot in Arashiyama

  Togetsukyo Bridge is one of Arashiyama’s most famous sightseeing spots and is always bustling with visitors. Its scenic views, which change beautifully with the seasons, and its deep history are part of its lasting appeal. This article introduces access to Togetsukyo Bridge, the best times to visit, and popular sightseeing spots nearby. By reading this article, you’ll find all the information you’ll want to know before visiting Togetsukyo Bridge.
• A Travel Guide to Tenryu-ji: Feel Zen in a Serene Setting

  Among Kyoto’s many sightseeing spots, Tenryu-ji is one of the most popular. Its signature works, the Unryu-zu (Cloud Dragon Painting) and Daruma-zu (Daruma Painting), are images most Japanese people have seen at least once. To help you fully enjoy Tenryu-ji, we’ll introduce the history and highlights you’ll want to know. With a bit of background as well as must-see spots, you’re sure to appreciate Tenryu-ji even more.

Kyoto

Shrines & Temples

Byodoin

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Amazing perfect symmetry! Heavenly architecture is truly enchanting.

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• Approx. 20 Minutes from Kyoto Station! 10 Must-See Uji Spots You Can Enjoy on a Day Trip

  Uji is known for its historic streetscapes and two UNESCO World Heritage sites. It’s less than 20 minutes from Kyoto Station, and many attractions are clustered within easy walking distance, making it a great day-trip destination from Kyoto. Here, we’ll introduce popular sights, recommended local food, and the best seasons to visit Uji to help you make the most of a day trip from Kyoto. Use this guide and you should be able to enjoy Uji in a half-day if you’re in a hurry-or take it slow and still see plenty in a full day.

Mie

Shrines & Temples

Ise Jingu

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A two-thousand-year-old Shinto shrine, filled with the origins of Japanese history, nature, and architecture.

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Related Articles

• Best Street Food Near Ise Jingu: A Guide to Oharaimachi & Okage Yokocho

  If you’re visiting “Ise Jingu,” be sure to stop by “Oharaimachi & Okage Yokocho” as well. This historic street stretches for Approx. 800 meters and is filled with a retro Ise atmosphere, lined with many restaurants, snack stands, and souvenir shops-perfect for strolling and tasting local bites before or after your visit. In this article, we’ll cover key details about Oharaimachi & Okage Yokocho and introduce the best street food for lunch or a quick snack. They’re all classic, popular picks-so you can’t go wrong.
• Ise Jingu Travel Guide : A Complete Guide to Highlights, Visiting Order, and Access for Geku & Naiku

  Ise Jingu, regarded as the most prestigious Shinto shrine in Japan, is a special and sacred place often called “the spiritual hometown of the Japanese people.” With 7 to 8 million visitors each year, this sacred area has a history of over 2,000 years and offers a powerful sense of Japanese culture and faith. This article covers everything from essential basics like Ise Jingu’s history and blessings to must-see spots, worship etiquette, and how to get around. We’ve compiled key information that’s especially helpful for first-time visitors, so be sure to read to the end.
• 30 Things to Do in Mie

  Mie Prefecture is home to many spiritually significant sites, such as Ise Jingu, one of Japan's premier power spots, and the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The picturesque scenery, surrounded by both sea and mountains, is sure to soothe your soul. Additionally, you can enjoy delicious gourmet dishes made from the bounty of the land and sea. Why not visit Mie for a trip that will recharge both your mind and body?

Hyogo

Tourist Attractions

Himeji Castle

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A World Heritage Site and one of Japan's most famous castle buildings. Also known as "Hakuro Castle”.

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• A Travel Guide to Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with Unmatched Beauty

  Himeji Castle was among the first sites in Japan to be registered as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site, and it’s widely praised around the world as a masterpiece of wooden architecture. Many of its surviving structures are designated National Treasures or Important Cultural Properties, and it remains one of Japan’s most beloved castles. Also known as “White Heron Castle (Shirasagi-jo),” its dignified white silhouette captivates visitors. In this article, we’ll highlight recommended must-sees and share the charm of Himeji Castle so even first-time visitors can enjoy it.

Osaka

Amusement Parks & Theme parks

Universal Studios Japan

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An interactive dive into the world of movies, anime and games from around the world!

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Related Articles

• Universal Studios Japan Complete Guide: A Must-Read for Those Who Want to Experience It All!

  Universal Studios Japan is a hugely popular theme park that captivates not only Japanese visitors but people from all over the world. With its unique and diverse attractions, the park offers an immersive experience that makes both adults and children feel like they’ve stepped into the world of movies. This article compiles essential information on how to enjoy Universal Studios Japan and tips for exploring the park comfortably and efficiently.
• Fully Enjoy Universal Studios Japan: A 1-Day Model Plan for Efficiently Exploring Popular Attractions

  To fully enjoy this world-class theme park, preparation is key. Make the most of your visit by using the Universal Express Pass, which allows you to enjoy major attractions at designated times. Additionally, check for off-season periods in Japan and event information to maximize your experience at Universal Studios Japan.
• Best Travel Spot Add-Ons During a Trip to USJ, Osaka

  Universal Studios Japan, or USJ as it’s known more commonly, is the popular theme park in Osaka where guests can dive into the popular worlds of Harry Potter, Mario from Nintendo and more. In this guide, we’ll show you some more travel spots that work as perfect add-ons to your trip to USJ.

Kyoto

Shrines & Temples

Mt. Otowa Kiyomizu-dera Temple

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A place that should be visited when traveling to Kyoto, the temple selected as a World Cultural Heritage.

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• [Yasaka Shrine Travel Guide] A Famous Kyoto Power Spot for Beauty, Connections, and Good Fortune

  With a long and storied history, Kyoto’s Yasaka Shrine is the head shrine of Yasaka Shrines and Gion Shrines across Japan. Enshrining a variety of high-ranking deities, it’s known as one of Kyoto’s most famous power spots, even in a city filled with temples and shrines. Beyond that, the grounds are packed with historically valuable architecture and plenty of highlights. To help you fully enjoy Yasaka Shrine and receive its many blessings, we’ll introduce the main must-sees, the best seasons to visit, and noteworthy events.
• Experience Japan’s Timeless Charm, Woven from History and Nature: A Kiyomizu-dera Travel Guide

  Kiyomizu-dera is one of Kyoto’s most popular sightseeing spots, as famous as Kinkaku-ji and Arashiyama. It’s packed with highlights, from many historically valuable buildings designated as National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties to beautiful natural scenery. To help you fully enjoy Kiyomizu-dera, one of Kyoto’s must-visit attractions, we’ll introduce not only the can’t-miss highlights, but also its history and the best seasons to visit.
• Special outdoor lighting of Kyoto’s autumn leaves at Kiyomizu-dera Temple

  I went to Kyoto and saw Kiyomizu-dera Temple at night for the first time. They had special outdoor lighting set up to make the autumn leaves appear even more magical than usual.

Nara

Shrines & Temples

Todaiji Temple

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The temple was built in the Nara period (710-794) and is registered as a World Heritage Site as a "cultural asset of the ancient capital Nara”.

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• A Travel Guide to Gango-ji, Japan’s Oldest Full-Scale Buddhist Temple

  The UNESCO World Heritage-listed “Gango-ji” is home to many buildings and Buddhist statues designated as National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties. Often said to be the birthplace of Japanese Buddhism, it is renowned as a temple of great historical and cultural value. From the “East Gate,” the main gate, to highlights such as the “Main Hall” and other grounds buildings, there is plenty to see, and seasonal flowers charm visitors year-round. This article introduces everything you need to enjoy “Gango-ji,” from its history to recommended sightseeing spots-use it as a helpful reference.
• A Tōdai-ji Travel Guide to Timeless History and Culture

  Tōdai-ji, famous for the Great Buddha of Nara. Beyond its many historic structures designated as National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties, the temple also offers easy-to-join Buddhist experiences like sutra copying and Buddha image tracing that can help calm the mind. Don’t miss the daily “Eleven-Faced Goma Fire Ritual Prayer” and the Tōdai-ji Museum, where you can learn more about its history. Here’s the history and must-see spots to know so you can fully enjoy Tōdai-ji, packed with highlights.

Osaka

Famous Places

Dotonbori

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The “eat ‘till you drop” foodie destination marked by the larger than life signboard.

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• Feast on Osaka’s Best Bites: A Guide to Kuromon Ichiba Market

  Known as “Osaka’s Kitchen,” the massive shopping street Kuromon Ichiba Market is packed with carefully selected ingredients. Around 150 shops line this lively arcade, where you can enjoy shopping and outstanding seafood to your heart’s content. Here’s what to eat at the food-walkers’ paradise Kuromon Ichiba Market, plus other shopping streets to enjoy nearby. Use this guide and you’ll be able to enjoy Kuromon Ichiba Market to the fullest.
• Enjoy Osaka’s Iconic Scenery and Food! A Dotonbori Sightseeing Guide

  Known as the “Nation’s Kitchen,” Dotonbori has a long history of helping shape Japan’s food culture, with rows of warehouse residences during the Edo period. It is still known as a “city of indulgent eating,” where you can enjoy Osaka specialties and many other outstanding dishes. Beyond the food, the area is also home to iconic Osaka scenery and popular sightseeing spots, making it a must-visit destination in Osaka. Here is an introduction to sightseeing spots, restaurants, and nearby areas worth visiting along with Dotonbori.

Kobe

Tourist Attractions

Akashi Kaikyo Bridge

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This is the world's longest suspension bridge connecting Honshu and Awaji Island, and is a beautiful bridge nicknamed the Pearl Bridge.

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• Complete Guide to Visiting Naruto: a Full Line-up of Must-See Spots!

  Naruto is known for its world-class, oversized whirlpool currents, unforgettable tourism, and delicious eats. But with so much to do there are still plenty of visitors who aren’t sure what to see on their trip. If that’s you, we’ve got you covered. Below you’ll find a full overview of Naruto’s best spots to help you build a travel plan that’s custom fit to you.
• A complete guide to Awaji Island! From major and hidden tourist spots to gourmet foods and souvenirs

  Awaji Island, a wonderful resort area where you can enjoy beautiful flowers, an endless ocean and fresh produce grown in the abundant nature. It is a popular tourist spot among visitors from both Japan and overseas with its easy access from the Kansai region. There are so many places to introduce on this island full of entertainment. Let's get started!

Kyoto

Shrines & Temples

Yasaka Shrine

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An ancient shrine with over 1,300-year history since before the relocation of Japan’s capital to Heian-kyo, it is also known as the birthplace of the Gion Festival, and has been highly revered.

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• Kyoto in the fall - Illuminated Fall Foliage at Kodai-ji -

  In this article, we will introduce you some pictures that were taken at Kodai-ji on November 28th 2010, during a time of night-time special viewing. The temple is in the walking distance from Yasaka-jinja and it is famous for a superb garden.

Osaka

Shopping Streets

Tenjinbashi-suji Shopping Street

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The longest shopping arcade in Japan, with a total length of about 2.6 km.

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• Kansai, where you can “Experience the Real Japan” that you have been looking for.

  The Kansai region is a “treasure house of Japanese culture” with a rich cultural resource remaining from its history as a former prosperous capital. There is a new, high-quality cultural tour that offers multiple cultural experiences in special settings with top-notch people who have mastered culture, art, or faith rooted in the Kansai region. Here are some travel reports from actual tour participants. Take part in this tour that is sure to become a once-in-a-lifetime precious trip.

Osaka

Observatories

Umeda Sky Building / Kuchu Teien Observatory

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The 40-story super high-rise was completed in 1993. From the observatory on the 40th floor and Kuchu Teien Observatory 173m off the ground, view the whole Osaka City.

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• [Umeda Sky Building Visitor Guide] Enjoy a Special Experience with Spectacular Views of Osaka

  Umeda Sky Building is a popular scenic spot where you can take in beautiful panoramic views of Osaka. As one of Umeda’s best-known landmarks, many people may know the name, but fewer know exactly what you can enjoy there. This article introduces the basic information, highlights, and gourmet spots you should know before visiting this landmark in Umeda. With its convenient location, why not add Umeda Sky Building to your Osaka sightseeing itinerary?
• Where to See the Best Christmas Illuminations at Umeda Sky Building + Takimi Koji Lane

  Christmas time at Umeda Sky Building is now a full-on winter tradition. Expect to see this spot decked out and all alight with state-of-the-art LED illuminations and even an all-new tree. Swing by this Christmas for an evening of spell-binding romance, gazing out over the breathtaking nightscape from the Floating Garden Observatory inside.