Kansai

Search Through Our Articles

  • Must-See
  • The Latest
  • Hot Deals
  • In-depth
  • How to

Tenjin Matsuri: Guide to Osaka's Thrilling Festival of Fire and Water (July 2025)

Osaka Castle, Tenmabashi, Kyobashi Summer

Every July, Osaka comes alive with the Tenjin Matsuri (天神祭), a spectacular celebration drawing 1.3 million visitors. The climax on July 25 features the grand Rikutogyo parade with 3,000 participants and the lantern-lit Funatogyo procession on the Ōkawa River. Capping it all is a dazzling fireworks show that gives this ‘fire and water festival’ its name, along with the crowd-favorite Tenjin Festival Gal Mikoshi, adding even more energy to the scene.

Fun Things to Do in Osaka & Kyoto in July: Enjoy Summer with Festivals, Fireworks & More

Umeda, Osaka Station, Kitashinchi Summer

July is filled with fun things to do in Osaka and Kyoto! As July arrives in the Kansai region, a wide variety of events and activities take place, including water events, Pokémon-themed events, the Tanabata bamboo decoration night illuminations, and beach events. Two of Japan's three major festivals, Kyoto's Gion Festival and Osaka's Tenjin Festival, are also held in July, filling the cities with excitement and energy. (This page may contain promotions) (Main image: TryHard Japan via PR Times)

Mitsui Outlet Park Marine Pia Kobe: A Shopping and Dining Resort Near Awaji Island

Kobe, Sannomiya, Kitano Outlet Malls

On November 26, 2024, Mitsui Outlet Park Marine Pia Kobe opened its doors in Tarumi Ward, Kobe City. Set against the backdrop of the Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge—one of Kobe’s most iconic attractions—and the lush green Awaji Island, this new resort area seamlessly blends stunning scenery with a relaxed beachside vibe. The shopping mall has been completely renovated into a new indoor facility, making it more convenient and user-friendly than ever before. Here, we take a look at some of the newest features and attractions of the new-and-improved Marine Pia Kobe. (This article may contain promotions)

Kansai Cherry Blossoms Guide: 8 Gorgeous Places To See Sakura in Osaka, Kyoto and Nara (2025)

Umeda, Osaka Station, Kitashinchi Spring

Experience the stunning beauty of Japan's famous cherry blossoms in Kansai's most picturesque locations. This comprehensive guide highlights the top 8 spots in Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara to witness the blooming of sakura trees. Whether you're a nature lover or a photography enthusiast, these places offer breathtaking vistas that will leave you in awe of the ephemeral beauty of cherry blossoms.

Kansai International Airport: Guide to Arrival and Departure Procedures

Kansai Airport Airport

Kansai International Airport (KIX), the largest international airport in western Japan, serves as a key travel hub for destinations such as Osaka, Kyoto, and Hyogo. A major renovation project is underway through autumn 2026, with the new domestic terminal opening in October 2022 and a revamped international departure area completed in December 2023. This article will guide you through the arrival and departure process at Kansai International, along with information on tourist help desks and popular facilities. (This page contains promotional content.)

Choice Spots

  • Arashiyama, Uzumasa
  • Gion, Kawaramachi, Kiyomizu-dera Temple
  • Kobe, Sannomiya, Kitano
  • Kyoto Station, To-ji Temple
  • Namba, Dotonbori, Shinsaibashi
  • Nara, Ikoma, Tenri
  • Shinsekai, Tennouji, Tsuruhashi
  • Umeda, Osaka Station, Kitashinchi
  • USJ, Nanko Port

Get Travel Tips

Also available on your smartphone.
Also available on your smartphone.
Make the most of our contents by browsing LIVE JAPAN with on your phone! Why not switch to mobile right now?https://livejapan.com/en/in-kansai/