The KANSAI Guide - The Origin of Japan, KANSAI

Discover the Roots of Japanese Culture in KANSAI

Things to do
in KANSAI

Canoeing Down the Kozagawa River

Sumo Wrestling Museum Kehayaza

Thatch Roof Fuki-kae Experience

An Intimate Noh Performance Set in an Extravagant Private Hall

Trace the roots of Tea Ceremony in a Rarely Opened Tea Room

See a Master “Echizen” Papermaker’s Craft Unfold Before Your Eyes

An Evening Noh Performance over Kobe’s Glittering Nightscape

Meet the Vanishing Lion, the Traveling Ise-daikagura Dancers

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Eating Out
in KANSAI

Shukubo Kansho-in Temple Sanrakuso

Handmade Soba & Grill Mahoroba

Events & Festivals
in KANSAI

Recommendations

Tourist routes
～8 Areas, 8 Stories～

Beyond the main tourist venues in Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, and Nara, the Kansai region offers many additional historical and cultural sites, as well as various unique locales of traditional interest. These 8 areas are a bit further away, though very attractive alternatives you may want to explore.

Cultural Expeditions

The cultural roots of Japanese food, tea ceremony, traditional arts, crafts, zen and other countless sensibilities can be traced to the Kansai region and the remarkable people who still uphold its customs. These Exclusive Expeditions will take you into the heart of Kansai to meet with Japan’s living treasures.

Geopark

There are two "Geoparks," geologic heritage sites of high scientific value, in Kansai: Nanki-Kumano and San'in Coast. Come experience the world-class dynamic natural formations and the local culture that has been nurtured.