A two-and-a-half-hour Shinkansen ride from Tokyo’s glittering skyline lies Osaka. Japan’s second-largest city boasts a profusion of historical sights and modern-day attractions for every sort of traveller. If you’re arriving at Osaka’s Kansai International Airport, the city serves as a gateway to the region. Ancient capitals, like Kyoto and Nara, and industrial centers, like Kobe, are an hour away by car or train.
This short and sweet guide would help you make the most of your trip to the Kansai region, which has its unique customs and dialect. So, say “okini” instead of “arigato” and don your Hanshin Tigers jersey.
READ: Slow travel: A ‘less is more’ approach to exploring
Osaka
Present-day Osaka lives up to its past as Japan’s premier center of commerce. Though Tokyo holds that mantle now, Osaka’s vibrant shopping districts, street food scene, and regional pride make for an unforgettable trip.
Head over to Shinsaibashi and Dotonbori to shop at international and Japanese brands. You can try the latest kicks at Asics, Onitsuka Tiger, and Mizuno, or stock up on makeup at Cosme, Japan’s answer to Sephora and Olive Young. Electronics aficionados can test out the latest gear at Bic Camera. And, tsundokus can take home paperbacks at Tsutaya.
In Dotonbori stands the famous Glico Running Man neon sign, which is modeled after Filipino runner Fortunato Catalon. Visitors worldwide gather on the bridge to take photos with this ad from Glico, the beloved confectionery company behind Pocky. To beat the crowd, head over to the second floor of H&M and take pictures from a secluded spot near the window.
After a day of shopping, you can sample street food like takoyaki and okonomiyaki or drop by one of Japan’s kitchen’s many haunts. A visit to Osaka Castle is a must for history buffs. A day at Universal Studios is perfect for the young and young-at-heart.
Kyoto
Kyoto was Japan’s capital for a little over a thousand years and was left largely unscathed during World War II—so much so that most of its historical sites still stand today. Visitors typically flock to architectural marvels, such as the purely wood Kiyomizu-dera and the gold-coated temple Kinkaku-ji. Though, a visit to a karesansui (dry landscape garden), such as the one in Ryoan-ji Temple, is a must. You can also enjoy a stroll along the Kamo River, which is just a stone’s throw away from Gion and Pontocho.
Given the city’s abundance of heritage experiences, it’s tempting to overlook its more contemporary offerings. Kyoto City Kyocera Museum of Art hosts exhibitions with artists like Yayoi Kusama, Takashi Murakami, and Claude Monet. You need to reserve in advance for special exhibitions, such as the ones with Kusama and Monet.
Central Kyoto has a mix of landmarks and underrated gems. Nishiki Market, though a popular tourist destination, offers a wide selection of local treats. Just five minutes away, you can also attend a koto (Japanese harp) performance and tea ceremony with Kotolily.
Walk for 10 to 15 minutes and you’ll come across streets lined with independent boutiques and cafés. Drop by (THISIS) SHIZEN to try artisanal and seasonal ice cream made to resemble bouquets, in Ace Hotel Kyoto. While you’re there, try some matcha or hojicha latte at Stumptown Coffee Roasters, School Bus Coffee Stop, and Kurasu. Avid comics readers would appreciate a visit to the Kyoto International Manga Museum, which houses over 50,000 books.
If you’re fortunate enough to catch the sakura season, spend at least half a day at Philosopher’s Path, a 10-minute cab ride from Central Kyoto. This predominantly residential area is lined with cherry trees, allowing you to walk under a canopy of these unpredictable blossoms.
READ: From Tokyo to Kyoto with senior parents in tow sans baggage
Uji
Almost all the world’s matcha comes from this small city just outside of Kyoto. Head over to Uji to fulfill your matcha cravings by shopping at Byodoin Omotesando, a road filled with matcha shops. You can buy ceremonial-grade matcha powder, matcha-flavored snacks like mochi, and matcha-themed merch.
While at Uji, you can sample matcha-flavored versions of popular Japanese dishes. Matcha gyoza and takoyaki are significantly more subtle in flavor than the originals. For a cup of matcha latte, try Masuda Tea Store.
Nara
Kyoto may have been Japan’s thousand-year capital, but Nara was the country’s first permanent one. The city is home to several shrines and temples. But what makes Nara memorable are the wild deer that roam around Nara Park. According to a legend, these deer are messengers of the gods.
Visitors can interact with the deer across several shrines and temples in Nara Park. Throughout the park are stalls that sell biscuits to feed to the deer. While they are considerably peaceful, they’re still wild animals and should be approached with caution.
Nara highlights include a stroll through the ethereal Kasugayama Primeval Forest and a short trek up to the Shinto shrine Kasuga Taisha. Ten minutes away by car is Todai-ji, a Buddhist temple complex. These designated UNESCO World Heritage sites shouldn’t be missed.
Kobe
This city isn’t just home to exquisite beef. Kobe houses the headquarters of multiple companies, such as Asics, Nestlé, and Procter and Gamble. Though focused on industry, visitors can enjoy many family-friendly attractions.
A 10-minute cable car ride offers stunning views of the city and a quick way to Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens & Ropeway. Here, you can enjoy walking through popular flora, such as roses and lilies of the valley. Visit the recently reopened Kobe Suma Sea World to see dolphin and orca shows. You’ll need to buy tickets ahead of time for these sights through their websites.
A trip to Japan isn’t complete without some shopping. After indulging in Kobe beef, which can be found in abundance, swing by Kobe Sanda Premium Outlets to shop your favorite brands like Maison Margiela, Gucci, and Ralph Lauren.
Venturing outside of the usual hubs like Tokyo and Osaka would enrich your experience in Japan. After all, the best trips stay with you even after the itinerary is complete.
