The Gate to KANSAI
Kansai Tourism Bureau

Concept

Light up your life
with a trip in Kansai, Japan

The Osaka-Kansai Expo concluded its 184-day run with the theme “Designing Future Society for Our Lives.” The various technological innovations and designs for future society that we encountered at the Expo gave each of us an opportunity to take the initiative and think about how to create a better society in the future. As new social and environmental changes face our world, it’s all the more clear that every individual has the essential, brilliant energy that will drive us into a brighter tomorrow. Prepare to hone the senses in a new kind of experience that’s sure to inspire a whole new point of view. Kansai is the home to a distinct culture borne of a long-told history, the bustle of people and a sustainable, regional flair that’s spun into the very lives of each generation. Why not take a step toward a journey to Kansai, carrying the insights you gained at the Expo in your heart? Take a trip that’s sure to light up your life, here in Kansai, Japan.

Model Plan

  • A Journey to Experience Japanese Craftsmanship
    A Journey to Experience Japanese Craftsmanship

    Discover the traditional crafts of Echizen, including Echizen Washi, which boasts a history of over 1,500 years, and delve into the world of Japanese craftsmanship.

    View more

  • Experience the Ancient Ama Culture
    Experience the Ancient Ama Culture

    Explore the beautiful Ise-Shima region through the lens of the Ama, Japan’s female free divers, who have upheld a 2,000-year-old tradition.

    View more

  • Experience Life by Lake Biwa and the Blessings of Water
    Experience Life by Lake Biwa and the Blessings of Water

    Shiga, home to Japan’s largest lake, offers a journey into a unique food culture nurtured by its abundant water resources.

    View more

  • A Taste of Japanese Gastronomy in Kyoto
    A Taste of Japanese Gastronomy in Kyoto

    Explore the heart of Japanese cuisine in Kyoto, where you can learn about the fundamentals of Washoku and immerse yourself in traditional culinary culture.

    View more

  • Experience the Traditional Spirit of Osaka
    Experience the Traditional Spirit of Osaka

    Embark on a journey to experience the warm and hospitable spirit of Osaka, shaped by its long history of commerce and deep-rooted sense of community.

    View more

  • A Journey in Search of Fine Sake
    A Journey in Search of Fine Sake

    Travel through Japan’s premier sake regions, including Nada Gogo, and experience the rich and complex world of Japanese sake.

    View more

  • Discover the Fermentation Culture in Ancient Nara
    Discover the Fermentation Culture in Ancient Nara

    Fermented foods like miso and soy sauce are essential to Japanese cuisine. Visit the ancient capital and trace the roots of fermentation culture.

    View more

  • A Journey to Explore the Mystical World Heritage Site, Kumano Kodo
    A Journey to Explore the Mystical World Heritage Site, Kumano Kodo

    Walk the sacred pilgrimage route of Kumano Kodo, where the presence of gods still lingers in the untouched nature.

    View more

  • Find Solace in the Magnificent Nature of the San’in Coast
    Find Solace in the Magnificent Nature of the San’in Coast

    Experience the breathtaking landscapes of the San’in coastline, where diverse geological formations create a stunning and powerful natural environment.

    View more

  • Immerse Yourself in a Slow-Paced Mountain Lifestyle
    Immerse Yourself in a Slow-Paced Mountain Lifestyle

    Visit a town that is gaining attention for its commitment to preserving traditional Japanese living while striving for a sustainable future.

    View more

Local Experiences

Featured Travel

  • An Intimate Noh Performance Set in an Extravagant Private Hall

    An Intimate Noh Performance Set in an Extravagant Private Hall

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

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

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

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

  • An Evening Noh Performance over Kobe’s Glittering Nightscape

    An Evening Noh Performance over Kobe’s Glittering Nightscape

  • Meet the Vanishing Lion, the Traveling Ise-daikagura Dancers

    Meet the Vanishing Lion, the Traveling Ise-daikagura Dancers

  • Experience the spirit of prayer at the Shugendo Konpon Dojo

    Experience the spirit of prayer at the Shugendo Konpon Dojo

  • Private Zen Meditation in a Seldom Opened National Hall of Treasures

    Private Zen Meditation in a Seldom Opened National Hall of Treasures

  • A Village’s Prized Puppets, Dancing on an Open-air Mountain Stage

    A Village’s Prized Puppets, Dancing on an Open-air Mountain Stage

  • The Realm of Light in Shadows Unveiled by the Porcelain Potter

    The Realm of Light in Shadows Unveiled by the Porcelain Potter

  • In Kumano, the “land of rebirth,” we renew our spirits

    In Kumano, the “land of rebirth,” we renew our spirits

  • An Intimate Noh Performance Set in an Extravagant Private Hall

    An Intimate Noh Performance Set in an Extravagant Private Hall

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

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

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

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

  • An Evening Noh Performance over Kobe’s Glittering Nightscape

    An Evening Noh Performance over Kobe’s Glittering Nightscape

  • Meet the Vanishing Lion, the Traveling Ise-daikagura Dancers

    Meet the Vanishing Lion, the Traveling Ise-daikagura Dancers

  • Experience the spirit of prayer at the Shugendo Konpon Dojo

    Experience the spirit of prayer at the Shugendo Konpon Dojo

  • Private Zen Meditation in a Seldom Opened National Hall of Treasures

    Private Zen Meditation in a Seldom Opened National Hall of Treasures

  • A Village’s Prized Puppets, Dancing on an Open-air Mountain Stage

    A Village’s Prized Puppets, Dancing on an Open-air Mountain Stage

  • The Realm of Light in Shadows Unveiled by the Porcelain Potter

    The Realm of Light in Shadows Unveiled by the Porcelain Potter

  • In Kumano, the “land of rebirth,” we renew our spirits

    In Kumano, the “land of rebirth,” we renew our spirits

Introducing photogenic spots

Featured in the photo contest

Worth the Visit! My Favorite KANSAI Photo Contest

  • 3 Memorable Scenic Spots in Kansai for Enjoying the Waterfront
    3 Memorable Scenic Spots in Kansai for Enjoying the Waterfront

  • Not Just Cherry Blossoms! 4 Parks for Capturing Stunning Floral Displays
    Not Just Cherry Blossoms! 4 Parks for Capturing Stunning Floral Displays

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

  • 4 Magnificent West Japan Views That Won a Photo Contest
    4 Magnificent West Japan Views That Won a Photo Contest

/kansaiguide/img/Worth the Visit! My Favorite KANSAI Photo Contest

Ranking

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

    Area

    Fukui Prefecture

    Theme

    Experiences Facilities

    See a Master “Echizen” Papermaker’s Craft Unfold Before Your Eyes
  • The Realm of Light in Shadows Unveiled by the Porcelain Potter

    Area

    Tottori Prefecture

    Theme

    Tourist Attractions

    The Realm of Light in Shadows Unveiled by the Porcelain Potter
  • Meet the Vanishing Lion, the Traveling Ise-daikagura Dancers

    Area

    Mie Prefecture

    Theme

    Cultural Facilities

    Meet the Vanishing Lion, the Traveling Ise-daikagura Dancers