Amanohashidate

Amanohashidate (which translates to bridge in heaven) is a natural stretch of pine covered sandbar that connects the two sides of Miyazu Bay in the Northern Kyoto. Together with Miyajima and Matsushima, they are famously referred as "the three views of Japan." Two of its observatories at “Kasamatsu Park ”in North and “Amanohashidate View Land ”in South are all beautiful sceneries worth exploring. You also stroll around Amanohashidate in the pine trees street and admire various kinds of pine trees. Amanohashidate View from Land’s Rear View Observatory (“Mata no zoki-dai”), gives a scene like a dragon flying in the sky. Thus, the name “Flying Dragon Observatory” (“Hiryu-kan”). Aerial lifts or cable cars to go up or down the mountain, also offer perfect option for tourists who do not plan to stay long at Amanohashidate but still wish to take in the breathtaking views.

Ine no Funaya

A charming seaside fishing village famed for its unique "funaya," or boathouses, that line the bay. The town is home to Urashima shrine, tied to the classic Japanese folk tale of Urashima Taro. We'll also board the Ine Bay Sightseeing Boat for a serene look around the area. Aboard the cruise, enjoy beautiful views of the bay and its iconic funaya. If you're lucky, you might spot some dolphins swimming alongside the ship. The tranquil waters of the bay are shielded by Aoshima Island, an uninhabited island said to be the home of the gods. It calms the incoming wind and waves, allowing the bay to remain peaceful.

Arashiyama

Arashiyama (嵐山) is a pleasant, touristy district in the western outskirts of Kyoto. The area has been a popular destination since the Heian Period (794-1185), when nobles would enjoy its natural setting. The Togetsukyo Bridge is Arashiyama's well known, central landmark.Notable attractions include the Arashiyama's famous bamboo groves, Tenryuji Temple and leisurely boat rides on the Hozugawa River, offering scenic views and a unique experience. Spare some time to interact with Japanese macaques at the Arashiyama monkey park, while at the same time having a panoramic view of Kyoto city. North of central Arashiyama the atmosphere becomes less touristy and more rural, with several small temples scattered along the base of the wooded mountains. The area north of the Togetsukyo Bridge is also known as Sagano, while "Arashiyama" technically refers just to the mountains south of the river but is commonly used to name the entire district.

Kinkakuji Temple

Kinkakuji temple was originally called Rokuonji, is the only remaining building from Yoshimitsu's former retirement villas and it is now an elegant Zen temple erected overlooking a big pond, according to the Ashikaga Yoshimitsu's wish upon his death in 1408. Its upper two floors are entirely coated with gold leaf, giving it a golden apprearance, thus its AKA, Golden pavilion.

Nijo Castle

It is a former imperial villa, which is now recognized as World Heritage site. It witnessed the rise and fall of the Tokugawa clan and other significant political event in the Japanese history, including the announcement of Meiji restoration. It briefly served as imperial palace after the fall of Tokugawa shogunate and its palace buildings are arguably the best surviving examples of castle palace architecture of Japan's feudal era, worth experiencing. One of the most striking features of the palace section are the "nightingale floors" (uguisubari) in the corridors that make a chirping sound when walked upon as a security measure against intruders.

Kyoto Imperial Palace

The Kyoto Imperial Palace (Kyoto Gosho) used to be the residence of Japan's Imperial Family until 1868, when the emperor and capital were moved from Kyoto to Tokyo. It is located in the spacious Kyoto Imperial Park (Kyõto Gyoen), an attractive park in the center of the city that also encompasses the Sento Imperial Palace and a few other attractions. The current Imperial Palace was reconstructed in 1855 after it had burnt down and moved around town repeatedly over the centuries.

Nishiki Market Shopping District

Nishiki Market, AKA " Kyoto kitchen" is a narrow, five block long shopping street lined by more than one hundred shops and restaurants. This lively retail market specializes in all things food related, like fresh seafood, produce, knives and cookware, and is a great place to find seasonal foods and Kyoto specialties, such as Japanese sweets, pickles, dried seafood and sushi. Nishiki Market has a pleasant but busy atmosphere that is inviting to those who want to explore the variety of culinary delights that Kyoto is famous for.

Ginkakuji Temple

Ginkakuji (銀閣寺, Silver Pavilion) is a Zen temple along Kyoto's eastern mountains (Higashiyama). In 1482, shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa built his retirement villa on the grounds of today's temple, modeled after Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion), his grandfather's retirement villa at the base of Kyoto's northern mountains (Kitayama). The villa was converted into a Zen temple after Yoshimasa's death in 1490.

Nanzen-ji Temple

Surrounded by beautiful mountains, it is one of the most well-known Rinzai Zen temples in Japan. It was originally Emperor Kameyama’s retirement villa and it includes a temple hall and garden centered around a pond. One of the famous features is a large brick aqueduct that passes through the temple grounds, as part of a canal system that was constructed to carry water and goods between Kyoto and Lake Biwa in neighboring Shiga Prefecture.

Gion

Kyoto’s Geisha neighborhood. Just imagine you would jump back in time to the 16th century and the street would be full of geisha and samurai. Famous highlights such as; i) Yasaka jinja Famous for its vermilion gates and lanterns that light up the streets during festivals, creating a striking and lively atmosphere. ii) Ninenzaka walkway A well preserved gently sloping stone-paved street, with its iconic Yasaka Pagoda, that the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple. iii) Shirakawa area Scenic part of Gion, with its famous canal lined by willow trees. iv) Hanami-koji This cobblestone street captures the essence of Kyoto’s old-world charm. it offers a leisurely stroll into the picturesque scenery that transforms into a magical night scene illuminated by lanterns. You are likely to catch a glimpse of a geiko or maiko on their way to or from an engagement at an ochaya in the evenings or while running errands during the day. You can enjoy Geisha performance show at Gion Corner of Hanami-koji.

Sanjusangendo Temple

a sanctuary in eastern Kyoto which is celebrated for its 1001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of leniency. The sanctuary was established in 1164 and modified a century afterward after the first structure had been devastated in a fire. Measuring 120 meters, the sanctuary lobby is Japan s longest wooden structure. The title Sanjusangendo truly 33 interims determines from the number of interims between the building s back columns, a conventional strategy of measuring the size of a building.

Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine

In the 1300 years since its establishment in 711AD, people have gathered here to pray for bountiful harvests, business prosperity, the safety of their home and family and the fulfillment of all kinds of other wishes. Fushimi Inari Taisha is now known worldwide as one of the most iconic sights in Kyoto, and in Japan as a whole. t is famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, which straddle a network of trails behind its main buildings. The trails lead into the wooded forest of the sacred Mount Inari, which stands at 233 meters, thus offering a perfect nature trail for hiking lovers.

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with the Hozugawa River Rafting where nature, excitement, and scenic beauty come together! Unlike typical sightseeing tours, this hands-on experience lets you dive into Kyoto’s wild side—literally. Paddle through thrilling rapids, glide past serene mountain landscapes, and witness the stunning seasonal colors of the valley, from cherry blossoms in spring to fiery foliage in autumn.

Kyotango

Known for its long beaches, including Shotenkyo Beach, which is part of the longest beach in the Kansai region. Kotohiki-hama, also know as "singing sand beach", is a scenic white sand beach lined by green pine trees that stretches 1.8 km long. When you walk along the beach, you can hear the quartz in the sand rubbing together making a squeaking sound.

Osaka Castle

Osaka Castle, or “Osaka-jo” in Japanese, is certainly one of the most famous landmarks in Japan, and for good reason. This five-story castle is one of the most visually spectacular creations in the country, with a history that dates back almost 450 years! Its construction dates back from 1583 on the former site of the Ishiyama Honganji Temple, by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, as the center of a new, unified Japan under his rule. While the castle itself is indeed beautiful, the surrounding parks are also worth exploring!

Cup Noodle Museum Osaka Ikeda

Dedicated to ramen noodle cups, the museum showcases the mind-boggling number of instant ramen flavor variations that have come out over the years and a reproduction of the hut where Momofuku Ando first created them.

Minoo Park

A natural paradise just outside Osaka. A leisurely exploration of the park brings you to its famous lush greenery and tranquil ambiance. Within it is the serene Minoosan Ryuanji Temple where you can have a brief, peaceful retreat. Thereafter, get mesmerized by the majestic Waterfall of Mino, that promises awe-inspiring natural beauty. Conclude your tour of the park with a relaxing break at Yamamoto Coffee-kan, where you can savor exquisite local coffee and snacks. This expedition is a perfect blend of nature, spiritual rejuvenation, and culinary indulgence, ideal for families and nature enthusiasts.

Shinsekai

Shinkasei " New world" is district in Osaka that was formely created before WW2 but was later developed to feature like New York and Paris in the Northern and Southern sections respectively. Tsutenkaku Tower, an nostalgia-evoking symbol of Shinsekai; its iconic and popular neighborhoods with retro vibe and nostalgic neon attract people from far and wide. To date, some section of it still displays a hidden gem of Osaka in its true, local colours.

Sennichimae Doguyasuji Shopping Street

A small street which has served the city and its eateries for centuries, this area is packed with wholesalers, gift shops, and specialist shops which are filled with cutlery and crockery to name a few of their wares.

Kuromon Market

A popular covered market in Osaka, Japan. It is also known as the “Gastronome” or “Osaka’s Kitchen” and has been around for over 200 years. The market is known for its fresh seafood, meat, and produce. See some of the finest seafood in Japan both prepped and eaten.

Hozenji Yokocho

A hard to find, narrow alleyway that has preserved the atmosphere of old Japan with its traditional lanterns and cobblestone paths. Here, you will also be privileged to visit Hozen-ji temple; small Buddhist temple located just off Dotonbori. Built in the 17th century and is dedicated to Fudo Myoo, one of the five wisdom kings in Buddhism.

Dotombori District

Located along the Dōtonbori canal. The area is known for its nightlife and is filled with an explosion of neon lights, mouth-watering street food, retro vibes, stores, and bars. The area is also home to the famous Glico Man sign which is a popular photo spot for tourists and locals alike.

Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street

A covered shopping street which has been Osaka’s most important shopping area for 400 years with hundreds of shops lining this 600-metre long street, walk down here to experience Japan’s love of consumer retail. You can also grab some shopping!

Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine

Sumiyoshi Taisha has stood watch over Osaka Bay for almost 2,000 years. Founded in the 3rd century before the introduction of Buddhism, it displays a unique style of shrine architecture, called Sumiyoshi-zukuri, that is free of influence from the Asian mainland. Since its founding, Sumiyoshi Taisha has been linked with the sea. People involved in fishing, shipping, and other maritime industries still come to pray at Sumiyoshi for safe voyages. The shrine offers spiritual protection for the port of Osaka, which was the main gateway to Japan’s historical capitals and the rest of the country until the late nineteenth century. Leading to the entrance of the main shrine grounds is the beautiful Sorihashi Bridge, which creates a uniquely high arch over a pond.

Tempozan Harbor Village

Tempozan Harbor Village is a comprehensive leisure spot in the Osaka bay area, and it homes the world's largest aquarium, Kaiyukan. It has other many tourist attractions, including Tempozan Marketplace, where you can enjoy gourmet food, shopping, and amusement, and the Osaka Cruise on a sailing tourist boat, the Santa Maria sightseeing boat and more....

Hoshi no Buranko Bridge

Hoshi no Buranko is a long suspension bridges of about 50m high to enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the autumn scenery, colored by red and yellow autumn leaves. you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the autumn scenery, colored by red and yellow autumn leaves. There is also a full-scale climbing wall 16.5m above ground, walking paths through nature, and observation spots, so you can enjoy the scenery and experiences all day long.

Nara Park

Alongside Naramachi and Nishinokyo, Nara Park is one of the must-see areas in Nara City. The vast area covers 660 hectares and is renowned for its free-roaming deer and world famous temples. Feeding the deer is an attraction in itself and special crackers are on sale all around the park.

Todai-ji Temple

With its giant bronze statue of Buddha (Daibutsu), it holds a reputation a UNESCO World Heritage site and its is considered as one of the largest wooden buildings in the world. The temple complex is a significant cultural and historical site, attracting visitors with its impressive architecture and religious significance. Part of it to the east is the famous Nigatsudo temple which offers one of the most beautiful scenes in all of Nara, especially at the sunset. It is best known for Omizutori, an annual fire and water ceremony, in which huge flaming torches are held out from the temple balcony, believed to be linked to the healing properties.

Higashimuki Shopping Street

This covered shopping arcade close to Nara Park has a good selection of restaurants and souvenir shops, and is a good option on rainy days. One of the great feature is Nakatidou mochi pounding shop. This is where you will experience mochitsuki, a traditional pounding process for mochi (Japanese rice cake). You also get to enjoy freshly pounded mochi!

Kofuku-ji Temple

Kofuku-ji Temple, located in Nara, Japan, is a historic Buddhist temple that dates back to the 7th century. The temple complex includes several pagodas, halls, and beautiful gardens. Kofuku-ji is an essential part of Nara's UNESCO World Heritage Sites, showcasing ancient Japanese architecture and religious artifacts.

Sanjodori Street

Sanjo-dori is a prominent street in Kyoto, Japan, known for its shopping and dining experiences. It stretches across the city, connecting the popular Gion district with the bustling Kawaramachi area. Visitors can explore a variety of shops, traditional tea houses, and modern boutiques along this historic street.

Isuien Garden

A traditional Japanese garden and it features a pond, teahouse, and meticulously landscaped elements, offering a peaceful and scenic retreat. The Neiraku Museum, located nearby, showcases a collection of fine arts and crafts. Together, they provide a serene and cultural experience in the heart of Nara.

Kasuga Grand Shrine

Kasuga Taisha is famous for its lanterns, which have been donated by worshippers. Hundreds of bronze lanterns can be found hanging from the buildings, while as many stone lanterns line its approaches. The lanterns are only lit twice a year during two Lantern Festivals, one in early February and one in mid August. There are many smaller auxiliary shrines in the woods around Kasuga Taisha, twelve of which are located along a path past the main shrine complex and are dedicated to the twelve lucky gods.

Naramachi

In Naramachi you will experience the atmosphere of old times created by old Machiya (historic merchant townhouses) and small alleys full of interesting sights. You can see some cute cafes and shops.

Uji

Escape to the southern end of Kyoto in a quiet detour where the landscape transforms into a wise splendor of green terraced fields for hiking and vast of experiences. Uji city is famous for its finest Japanese tea, Uji Matcha. Here, tourists have many experiences to explore, including visits to tea plantations, hand-picking, and the tea ceremony. Of the notable sightseeing spot, Byodoin Temple is accredited as one of the famous monuments of ancient Kyoto. The temple is so beautiful that it is featured on the obverse of a 10 yen coin. Lastly in the evening hours, tourist will have the opportunity to experience Ujigawa Ukai, a traditional cormorant fishing on the Uji River.

Mt. Rokko

Mount Rokko (六甲山, Rokkōsan, 931 meters) is the highest peak in the Rokko mountain range, which provides the pleasant green backdrop to the city of Kobe. Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens are Japan’s largest herb gardens with about 75,000 herbs and flowers of about 200 kinds blooming throughout the year. There are 14 garden areas where visitors are welcomed by seasonal herbs and flowers arranged according to different themes. In this excursion, you will enjoy ropeway ride which gives a perfect panoramic view of the Kobe port city. You can stroll on your way to observe Nunobiki Waterfalls and closer interactions with nature.

Nada no Hitotsubi

For sake lovers, this district is famous for this traditional brew due to the availability of high quality rice, suitable water and favorable weather conditions in the area. Here, you will visit many Sake breweries, including Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum, where you will be taken through sake brewery process and also have the opportunity to enjoy tastes of sake. Another notable museum is Sawa no tsuru Sake Museum was opened in 1978 with the aim of commemorating the sake-brewing heritage of the Nada district. It was destroyed by the Great Hanshin Earthquake in 1995 and was subsequently rebuilt in 1999.

Kobe Shu-shin-kan Breweries

Shushinkan has a large shop selling sake and sake-related products, as well as a restaurant serving Japanese cuisine in combination with sake. Free guided tours of the sake warehouse are held once per day except in December. Sake tasting is available as well.

Port of Kobe Earthquake Memorial Park

On January 17, 1995 at 5:46 am, the city of Kobe was hit by the Great Hanshin Awaji Earthquake, resulting in the death of more than 5000 people and the destruction of tens of thousands of homes. This museum was opened in 2002 to commemorate the tragic event and to educate visitors about earthquakes and disaster prevention. It includes includes a large screen theater with realistic images of the earthquake's destructiveness, a documentary film about the recovery process, lots of information about the earthquake and various interactive games about disaster prevention.

Kitano Ijinkan-gai

This is district within kobe, where many foreign merchants and diplomats settled after the Port of Kobe was opened to foreign trade in the second half of the 19th century. More than a dozen of the former mansions, known as Ijinkan, remain in the area and are open to the public as museums. The entire district is pleasant to walk through and offers a variety of cafes, restaurants and boutiques, making it a favorite among family and couples.

Chinatown (Nankinmachi)

Nankinmachi (南京町) area was developed by Chinese merchants who settled near Kobe Port after the port was opened to foreign trade in 1868. Nankimachi was adopted name after after Nanjing, the former Chinese capital. wo main streets run through the district, meeting each other at a small plaza in the center. They are packed with shops, restaurants and food stands that sell popular items such as steamed buns (manju), ramen, tapioca drinks and various other Chinese dishes, many of which have been Japanized to a certain degree, but it still stands as great center for the Chinese community in the Kansai region.

Kobe Harborland

Located slightly west of the downtown, Kobe Harborland is one of the leading tourist areas and a large commercial complex in the city with shopping malls, restaurants, movie theaters and other recreational facilities. The Takahama Wharf where ships including the Kobe Concerto cruise ship berth is a perfect spot to take a stroll while feeling the refreshing sea breeze.

Himeji Castle

Also known as "Whte Heron Castle," is famous for its pure white appearance and beautiful architecture. It holds the distinction of being Japan's first UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site and is counted among Japan's national treasures. Unlike many historical buildings in Japan, Himeji Castle has never been destroyed or burnt down, making it one of the 12 original castles still standing in Japan today. Iakuya Shiji Park preserves the former residential area of the Iakus, offering visitors a glimpse into the daily life and cultural heritage of the Japanese during that era.

Koko-en

Kokoen is considered one of the most beautiful gardens in Japan and is listed as a national special scenic spot, owing to its exquisite garden landscapes, man-made lakes, bridges and ancient buildings, full of traditional Japanese beauty. Its exquisiteness and thoughtful design create an elegant and tranquil environment, worth exploring.

Arima Onsen

One of the oldest and famous hot spring resorts in Japan. Enjoy a comfortable bath in the hot springs and relieve the fatigue of the excursion with hot spring footbath.

Rokko Garden Terrace

A magnificent English garden which consists of a small cottage garden as well as a meadow-style garden, which offers a perfect mix of the elegant and fashionable atmosphere of the Kobe natural beauty. An ideal setting for relaxing after a hike up the mountain as well as for a romantic date, a place where both hikers and restaurant goers mingle to enjoy the spectacular views.

Rokko-Shidare Observatory

Overlooking the Garden Terrace, the Rokko Shidare Observatory, presents a striking fusion of art and nature in the shape of a tree-like dome. The panoramic view of Osaka Bay from atop the Rokko mountains, dubbed as “ten-million-dollar night view." One of its natural innovative feature worth exploring is its two ice storage rooms, which are used to cool the structure even during the hottest summer weather without the electricity, and cool air from the ice rooms also drifts up to the observatory floor, cooling it down for visitors.