Kansai
The region consists of the prefectures of Wakayama, Nara, Kyoto, Osaka and Hyogo.
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Philosopher’s Path in Kyoto | Quiet Atmosphere and Beautiful Trees
The ideal spot for some quiet thinking and to enjoy the 4 seasons of Japan, the Philosopher’s Path is beloved by tourists and locals alike. Find out how you can enjoy this wonderful little corner in Kyoto!
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Kyoto Station | It’s a transportation hub and a shopping destination
Kyoto station is not just a place to catch the train, as there is plenty to see and do besides arriving and departing. Find out what makes Kyoto station worth visiting during your Japan tour!
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Riverside Kibune in Kyoto | Beautiful Seasonal Scenery and the God of Marriage
Kibune is a riverside area in the northern part of Kyoto. You can visit the famous Kifune Shrine, hike to Kurama Temple over the mountain, or enjoy lunch at one of the riverside open restaurants.
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Nachi Katsuura, Wakayama | Beautiful Nature and Delicious Tuna
Nachi-Katsuura is a small town in Wakayama that is famous for its early-morning tuna auction and nice hot springs. The city itself is very attractive and also a starting point of the popular Kumano Kodo route.
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Kyoto Highlights and Hidden Gems Itinerary
Would you like to get some ideas for your perfect Kyoto itinerary? We listed our 5 favorite Kyoto highlights along with 5 lesser-known spots in Kyoto that really make you able to taste the local atmosphere in this beautiful city.
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Tofukuji Temple, Kyoto | Beautiful Flowers and Gardens
One of my favorite Zen temples is the Tofukuji temple located in the east of Kyoto city. What makes this temple very special are its magnificent landscapes of maple trees and cherry blossoms.
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Church of the Light | Osaka Travel Guide
If you are interested in Japanese architecture, Tadao Ando might ring a bell for you. He designed the Church of the Light in Osaka, an interesting work of contemporary architecture in Japan.
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Experience Zen | the Essence of Buddhism in Kyoto
There is a Zen temple in Kyoto called Koshoji, located near Kuramaguchi Station, which is not a typical tourist sightseeing spot. Even though tourists are discouraged from going in, it is an interesting place to visit.
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Rurikoin Temple, Kyoto | Spectacular view shining in lapis lazuli
When we hear or see the words ‘yuka midori in Japan’, it is considered as a herald of early summer. Learn what this means in this personal account of our visit to the Rurikoin temple in Kyoto.
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Namba | Osaka’s culture and charm are concentrated in this city
Namba is a known entertainment district in Osaka full of colors, restaurants, neon screens, shops, and other places to enjoy yourself, and it becomes especially fun at night.
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Local Kyoto with its quaint scenery
If you have already finished the beginners‘ course of travel in Kyoto and traveled around the many touristy spots, it is time to explore the daily lives of the locals!
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Koyasan with its Gorgeous Architecture and Traditions
Koyasan is a center of Buddhist study and practice, located in the northeastern part of Wakayama Prefecture. It is surrounded by eight low peaks in Koya-Ryujin Quasi-National Park.
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6 Recommended Places in Osaka
To help you decide where to go in Osaka if you are short on time, we compiled a list of the 5 best places to visit in this bustling city.
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5 Great Kyoto Sightseeing Destinations
While planning a trip to Kyoto, it can be difficult to make the decision to choose where to go if you have a limited amount of time due to the large number of amazing sights that exist in Japan’s ancient capital city. This is a list of the 5 best places to visit during your…
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Danjiri Kaikan Museum, Osaka | Experience a beautiful festival
The Danjiri Kaikan is an interactive and fun museum located in Osaka near Kishiwada Castle. It provides information and activities on the Kishiwada Danjiri Festival, which is very famous in Japan.
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Shinsekai, Osaka | Travel back in time to the retro Showa era
If Osaka is on your itinerary, Shinsekai is a very interesting neighborhood to explore. The atmosphere is somewhat retro-feeling, making you feel like you have returned to Japan at the height of the Showa period (1926-1989).
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Nijo Castle | with its Gorgeous Architecture and Many Treasures
Nijo-jo Castle in Kyoto has witnessed some of the most important events in Japanese history in the 400 years since it was built. In 1940 the palace was first opened to the public. Today it is one of the most important tourist spots in the city of Kyoto.
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Himeji Castle | A Masterpiece of Castle Building Technology
Himeji Castle was the first registered World Cultural Heritage site (in 1993) in Japan. It is said to be a masterpiece of Japan’s unique castle architecture technology that reached its peak in 1600.
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Kinkakuji | The Most Beautiful Buddhist Temple
Kinkakuji was founded in 1397 as a resting villa for the third shogun of the Muromachi era, Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. This shogun asked his son to turn the villa into a Zen temple when he died, and so it happened.
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Yasaka Shrine, Kyoto | Historic and Beautiful Building
One of the oldest shrines in Kyoto is located in the famous Gion district in Kyoto. The Yasaka Shrine stands out for its great beauty and interesting historical architecture.