Discover Japan's Rich Heritage
A region on the western side of the main island of Honshu, Kansai is Japan's spiritual and cultural capital, shaped by towering Osaka and Himeji castles, Zen gardens and arduous journeys to enlightenment. For centuries, Kansai has been the cultural heartland of Japan. The nation's ancient capitals of Kyoto and Nara are filled with cultural and historical sites, while Koyasan in Wakayama has been a religious destination for centuries. Just a short distance away, you can revel in the raucous nightlife of Osaka's entertainment districts and take in panoramic views of the Kobe cityscape.
Kansai is where you’ll find the traditional Japan of your imagination; winding cobbled streets lined with dark wooden houses, the sound of distant gongs in the mountains and the smell of incense in the rain. Also known as the Kinki Region, Kansai is sometimes seen as the more quirky counter to its eastern neighbor, Kanto. Kansai people are known for their humor and love of food. They also speak a distinct dialect known as ‘Kansai-ben’.
Kansai is where you’ll find the traditional Japan of your imagination; winding cobbled streets lined with dark wooden houses, the sound of distant gongs in the mountains and the smell of incense in the rain. Also known as the Kinki Region, Kansai is sometimes seen as the more quirky counter to its eastern neighbor, Kanto. Kansai people are known for their humor and love of food. They also speak a distinct dialect known as ‘Kansai-ben’.
Kumano Kodo
Sacred Pilgrimage Trails
Fantastic way to experience the unique cultural landscape of Japan’s spiritual countryside.
Fantastic way to experience the unique cultural landscape of Japan’s spiritual countryside.
Ine Boathouse
Quaintest Fishing Village
Considered one of the most beautiful villages in Japan due to its untouched structures and location.
Considered one of the most beautiful villages in Japan due to its untouched structures and location.
Kinosaki Onsen
Japan's Facorite Onsen Town
With lazy riverside walks, seven hot springs within walking distance and a postcard-worthy old-town.
With lazy riverside walks, seven hot springs within walking distance and a postcard-worthy old-town.
Explore
Regions of Kansai
Regions of Kansai
Ideas
for Your Kansai Trip
for Your Kansai Trip
- All
- Osaka
- Kyoto
- Nara
- Hyogo
- Shiga
- Wakayama

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