3 Spots with Timeless Landscapes for Appreciating Kansai’s Rich History

Lake Biwa Canal is a man-made waterway built to bring water to Kyoto from Lake Biwa. This historic canal is composed mainly of three parts: the First Canal (about 20 km) connecting Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture, to Kyoto City; the Second Canal (about 7.4 km) running parallel to the north of the First Canal; and the Branch Canal (about 3.3 km).

The project was planned in 1869, just after the Meiji Restoration, as part of Kyoto’s rejuvenation efforts following the depopulation and industrial decline after the capital relocated to Tokyo. The canal was built using state‑of‑the‑art technology and a substantial budget.

Since its completion in 1890, the canal has supported the development and growth of Kyoto’s infrastructure through water supply, hydroelectric power, and waterway transport. At the same time, the canal’s architectural excellence has also been highly regarded, with 24 structures ranked among the nation’s Important Cultural Properties, of which five are National Treasures.

Approximately 100 cherry trees of the yamazakura and somei-yoshino varieties line both banks of the canal. In spring, it becomes the ideal setting for a leisurely stroll while appreciating the cherry blossoms.

Canal cruises are available in spring and autumn, inviting passengers to leisurely admire this historic waterway in a new and special way. Cherry blossoms reflected on the surface create an ethereal sight. On windy days, you may even have the chance to see cherry petals fluttering down like a soft snowfall. Watching the fleeting beauty of the cherry blossoms will make you want to capture them on camera.

Nestled amongst the rich natural environment of the Yamashiro area in southern Kyoto Prefecture, Gansen-ji Temple is an ancient temple said to have been founded in 792 by the order of Emperor Shomu. Just beyond the main Sanmon gate, a striking three-story pagoda painted in vivid vermilion comes into view. Originally constructed in the 9th century, it was destroyed by fire in the Jokyu Disturbance of 1221 and later reconstructed in the mid-15th century. Today, it is designated as a National Important Cultural Property, exemplifying Japanese late-medieval three-storied pagoda architecture. The structural beauty of the pagoda and the greenery that surrounds it create a breathtaking contrast, leaving visitors in awe.

Gansen-ji Temple is also known as a “temple of flowers.” Plum and cherry blossoms, lotus flowers, and autumn foliage adorn the grounds in turn as the seasons change. One of the highlights is during the rainy season, when 5,000 hydrangeas of around 30 varieties cover the temple grounds. Because hydrangeas bloom at different times depending on the variety, visitors can enjoy them over an extended period. The best time to visit Gansen-ji Temple is from early June to early July.

Be sure to visit and enjoy the magical scenery created by the colorful hydrangeas and the three-storied pagoda!

Saikazaki, located in southwestern Wakayama Prefecture, is a fishing town spread along the eastern edge of the Setonaikai National Park. Since ancient times, Saikazaki has been celebrated as a scenic spot, and its views are even praised in the “Manyoshu,” Japan’s oldest surviving poetry anthology.

In recent years, the town’s steep slopes packed with houses have been compared to Italy’s Amalfi Coast, earning Saikazaki the nickname, “the Amalfi of Japan.”

While there are several theories about how this distinctive landscape developed, one explanation is that the locals built their homes in a way where they could overlook and safeguard their treasured boats.

The settlement is a maze of narrow streets and alleys, perfect for strolling and exploring while soaking up the nostalgic fishing-village atmosphere. From April to October, cruises circle Wakanoura Bay, offering views of this unique landscape from the sea.

At sunset, the town’s silhouette reflects across the ocean, creating a magical scene. It’s no wonder Saikazaki has been a beloved place of scenic beauty since ancient times. Come experience this one-of-a-kind view that has been cherished through the ages for yourself!

Across the Kansai region, landscapes that reflect the local history are still very much alive. Why not visit these places, and as you take photos, imagine the lives of those who once lived there?

“Worth the Visit! My Favorite KANSAI Photo Contest” was organized by the EXPO2025KANSAI Tourism Council in collaboration with Tokyo Camera Club. 14 winning photos were selected by region from countless submissions on social media between April 21 and June 30, 2025. Each winner captures the unique charms of Kansai in their own way.

When you look at the landscapes captured in these images, you may find yourself wanting to visit the locations in person. Find your favorite photos and then set out to see them with your own eyes and camera!