Kansai

The Kansai region consists of the central prefectures of Osaka and Kyoto and the surrounding prefectures of Shiga, Wakayama, Nara, and Hyogo. There are ancient temples and shrines housing many national trasures in Kyoto, Nara, and other parts of the Kansai ragion. There are cultural patterns and food culture peculiar to this region, once home to the capital of Japan and a center of economic and cultural activities. The region is also known for its distinctive fashion and other trends as well.

Important Places

Hieizan Enryakuji Temple

The temple is located on Mt. Hiei, the Foundational Temple of Japanese Mahayana Buddhism. It is registered on the UNESCO world cultural heritage list and can be reached by bus and cable car from kyoto or Otsu in about one hour. Various ascetic practices can hour. Various ascetic practices can be experienced in this mystical and spiritually atmosphere.

Koyasan

A sacred ground for the Shingon sect of esoteric Japanese Buddhism, which kobo Daishi (also known as Kukai) started about 1200 year ago. Koyasan has won the faith of many people as a place where Buddist monks temples train themselves. There are many temples here that offer room and accommodation to visitors.

Nara Park

The second largest city in the Kanto region after Tokyo. There are many touriest spots here, including Chukagai (China Town), the Motomachi district with many boutiques, and Aka Renga Sokogai(red brick warehouses). Visited by large cruise shipe, the port of Yokohama offers beautiful sights. .

Takeda Castle

Takeda Castle is a rare example of a fully preserved mountaintop castle in Japan. In certain conditions, the castle remains seem to be floating in a sea of clouds.

Himeji Castle

Japan’s first world cultural heritage site. Distinguished by its pure white walls, Himeji Castle has been designated as a national treasure. The other name for this castle is the White Heron Castle because it resembles a white heron spreading its wings.