Welcome to Kansai
If you had to choose only one region of Japan to explore, Kansai (関西) would be an easy choice. It's the heart of Japan; nowhere else in the country can you find so much of historical and cultural interest in such a compact area. ... Read More
Top experiences in Kansai
Sights in Kansai
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Matsusaka detour: history, hikes and to-die-for beef
Wander castle ruins, hike to a mountain-top temple, dine on some of the world’s best beef, and sleep soundly under the roof of an historic inn: just a few of the highlights of a day or two in Matsusaka. Beef fans may want to stay for more.
Exploring Ise-Shima: getting off the beaten track in Kansai
Ago Bay at sunset, Ise-Shima © Nobythai / Getty Images
Best things to do in summer in Japan
The Akita Kantō Matsuri (Pole Lantern Festival). Image by Rosino / CC BY-SA 2.0
Travel guides
Starting at $15.99
Kansai adventures
Japan on a Shoestring
Always wanted to do Japan but felt it was pricy? No longer! This super-affordable nine-day introduction to the Land of the Rising Sun is the solution. Travel by train to introduce yourself to Tokyo nightlife, the famous geisha district of Kyoto, and the gorgeous mountainous region of Hakone. Experience the country's quirky side as well, with activities and free time alike. Discover Japan with a group of like-minded adventurers and you'll never want to come home.
Japan Hike, Bike & Kayak
Get off the beaten track in Japan and experience parts of the country other big-city tours tend to skip. This tour of the Land of the Rising Sun includes something for every active passenger. Take in major cultural touchstones like Osaka, Hiroshima, and Tokyo, along with lesser known areas. Hike along the ancient Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route to visit spectacular temples, cycle across islands as you follow the Shimanami Kaido, and kayak around the famed floating torii gate in the Bay of Miyajima. Every view is that much sweeter when you've worked for it.
2-Day Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, Shirakawago and Hida-Takayama Bus Tour from Osaka
Enjoy this overnight trip from Osaka to visit the World Heritage site, Shirakawago, and Hida Takayama, also known as "Little Kyoto." You'll stay overnight in the relaxing Toyama prefecture. The following day, you'll travel though the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route and visit the Snow Wall Otani where you can experience being surrounded by snow even during the spring.
2-Day Hiroshima Tour from Kyoto Including Miyajima and Kurashiki
Visit top World Heritage sites in Miyajima, Hiroshima and Okayama on this 2-day guided from Kyoto. Marvel at the graceful red gate of Itsukushima Shrine, take in the UNESCO-listed Hiroshima Peace Memorial's Genbaku Dome and museum, stroll the historic streets of the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter, and view Western artworks at the Ohara Museum of Art. Top it off with included public transport, one restaurant lunch, and accommodations at the Hotel Granvia Hiroshima.
3-Day Tour from Kyoto to Tokyo: Takayama, Shirakawago and Kanazawa
Edo-era architecture, samurai stories and houses shaped like praying hands — experience Japanese history and culture on this 3-day tour from Kyoto to three of Japan’s must-visit historical cities: Takayama, Shirakawago and Kanazawa. With a professional guide, you'll explore traditional homes, UNESCO-listed folk villages and other impressive sites such as Kenroku-en Garden. Relax easy with prearranged transport to all locations, and enjoy your choice of standard or deluxe hotel accommodation in Takayama and Kanazawa. This is a one-way tour, ending in Tokyo.
Mt Koya Tour with Overnight Stay at Fukuchi-in Temple by Rail from Osaka
Experience the sacred mountain of Mt Koya, the spiritual center for the Shingon sect of Buddhism in Japan, on this 2-day trip by express train from Osaka. A guide accompanies you to a pair of Mt Koya’s most renowned World Heritage sites: Okunoin and Danjo Garan. Wind down from a day of sightseeing with an independent temple stay experience at Fukuchi-in; meals and access to the ‘onsen’ (Japanese hot spring) are included. On the second day, explore the temple's natural setting on your own before returning to Osaka.