Fushimi Inari Shrine
On Day 1, the focus is to visit all of Kyoto's top tourist attractions. Begin by heading to Kyoto Station on the JR Lines, then take a train to Tofukuji Station on the JR Nara Line. From there, switch to the Keihan Main Line, which will bring you to Fushimi Inari Taisha in approximately 10 minutes. Upon arrival, make your way to the main hall and continue through the famous Senbon Torii Gates until you reach the inner sanctuary.

The striking crimson Torii gates, known as a portal to another realm, create a stunning contrast against the lush greenery enveloping them. As you revel in the rejuvenating negative ions of Mount Inari, your spirits will soar, setting a positive tone for your trip's first day.

Yasaka Shrine
Return to Fushimi Inari Station on the Keihan Main Line, and then take a train to Gion-Shijo Station. Your next stop is Yasaka Shrine, renowned for its power to grant countless blessings to its visitors. This particular Yasaka Shrine serves as the main shrine for all Yasaka Shrines in Japan and approximately 2,300 other shrines and temples throughout the country that worship Susanoo-no-Mikoto, a Japanese deity.

While at the shrine, you'll come across several sub-shrines, including the Horikawa Ebisu Shrine, where the deity of good fortune and business prosperity is worshipped. Additionally, the Utsukushigozen Shrine boasts a bubbling pool that is believed to confer beauty on those who anoint their skin with its water.

Kiyomizu Temple
Once you're finished at Yasaka Shrine, take a stroll on the scenic cobblestone walkway known as Nene no Michi, and traverse the well-preserved historical streets of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka en route to your next destination, Kiyomizu Temple.

Kiyomizu Temple is undoubtedly one of Kyoto's most iconic attractions, and as a result, it tends to attract large crowds at all hours of the day.

The temple's platform, standing tall at a height of 13 meters (approximately 42 feet), is the inspiration behind the Japanese proverb, "Jumping off the stage of Kiyomizu." This saying implies the bravery needed to make significant decisions that could lead to either positive or negative outcomes. Furthermore, the platform offers an exceptional vantage point from which to admire a panoramic vista of Kyoto.

Starting from the main hall, follow the order of the Shaka Hall, Amida Hall, inner garden, and conclude your tour at the Otowa Waterfall. This waterfall's water originates from Mount Otowa and is believed to be the merit water or golden water of Kan'on, the Bodhisattva of compassion. According to legend, drinking from one of the three streams beneath the waterfall can grant blessings of longevity, academic achievement, or romantic success.

Kyoto Gourmet Food
Obanzai is a distinctive type of cuisine that is exclusive to Kyoto. It comprises the typical home-cooked dishes that the locals of Kyoto enjoy, featuring locally-sourced vegetables that imbue the dishes with the natural flavors of the region. To relish some of the finest obanzai dishes that Kyoto has to offer, explore the downtown areas surrounding Kyoto Station, such as Gion, Sanjo, or Shijo Kawaramachi.

Yudofu is another dish that is closely linked with Kyoto. It's a simple preparation that involves boiling tofu in a kombu kelp soup stock and serving it alongside condiments like ponzu, a citrus-based sauce, or other accompaniments. You'll discover numerous specialty yudofu shops near the Nanzenji Temple area. Another must-try delicacy is Kyoto's renowned matcha-based desserts, which are readily available near major train stations. Remember this as you journey towards your next destination, Arashiyama!

Togetsukyo Bridge
On the second day, take the express train via San'in Main Line, which is roughly 12 minutes from Kyoto Station on the JR Lines, to reach Arashiyama. The day's plan is to take it easy and enjoy the natural surroundings of Arashiyama, one of Kyoto's top tourist destinations that boasts stunning cherry blossoms in spring and picturesque red foliage in autumn. Additionally, several renowned shrines are located north of Togetsukyo Bridge. For a thrilling adventure, consider hopping on one of the rickshaws that traverse the main tourist spots.

Nonomiya Shrine
Nonomiya Shrine is a well-known "power spot," a place of spiritual renewal and healing revered by locals. Be sure to make a wish during your visit! This shrine is the location where the Saio of ancient times would perform purification rituals. The Saio held the title of the chief priestess and served at the Ise Shrine on behalf of the emperor. Typically, an unmarried female member of the imperial family would assume this position. Presently, the shrine enshrines the deity of romantic success, childbirth, and safe delivery.

Bamboo Forest
The 100-meter (or 328-foot) footpath between Nonomiya Shrine and Okochi-Sanso winds through the charming and atmospheric Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Here, countless tall, verdant bamboo plants stretch towards the sky, creating a canopy that filters the sunlight into a gentle warmth. This well-liked path is included in the sightseeing rickshaw tour, which we strongly recommend experiencing for a unique and unforgettable adventure.

Tenryuji Temple
Tenryuji Temple is located in the center of the Arashiyama area and can be easily accessed from the Bamboo Forest. Inside, you'll find the beautiful Sogen Garden, a Japanese-style garden designed by Musō Soseki, the first chief priest of the temple. From there, you can catch a glimpse of the faraway Arashiyama and Kameyama in the background, framing the garden within an impressive natural landscape. Whichever season you choose to visit, a stunning view will be waiting for you here for sure.

Saga Tofu Ine Head Store
As one of Kyoto’s most well-known sightseeing destinations, Arashiyama is lined with popular eateries serving the throngs of hungry tourists at almost every hour of the day. The main street in front of Arashiyama Station on the Keifuku Arashiyama Line is especially famous for being a gourmet paradise. In fact, there are so many restaurants serving great-tasting food that you may be at a loss as to which one you should step into! Some of the specialty foods you’ll find along this street are yuba (tofu skin), tofu, and sweet dessert. Head to Saga Tofu Ine to try their amazing tofu cuisine for lunch!

The restaurant is located right next to a dessert shop which serves carefully prepared warabimochi (mochitopped with soybean powder) and delicious parfait. They also sell takeout and souvenirs that you can buy home for keepsake or as a gift, if you like!

eX Cafe
Located near Togetsukyo Bridge is an unusual cafe called eX Cafe, which you can also reach by walking straight down the main street from Arashiyama Station. The building itself was a former large Japanese-style residential house and you'll find interesting artistic paintings on its outer walls and sliding doors. A great spot to rest and relax in during your Arashiyama tour whenever you feel like it.

The cafe's "Hoku Hoku Odango Set" is our recommendation. You get to cook your own dango (rice flour dumplings) skewers atop a charcoal stove just the way you like it and enjoy them while they're still piping hot! Sauces available are red bean and mitarashi (sweet soy sauce). The elegant mood this creates makes the cafe a perfect place to just sit down and sip a cup of tea at leisure as well. After having your fill of Arashiyama, it's time to head over to Osaka and Namba for some night activities.

Dotonbori
Board a train from Arashiyama Station on the Hankyu Line to Osaka-Umeda Station, then switch to the Osaka Metro and travel to Namba. This journey should take approximately an hour, and upon arriving in the Osaka Minami area, you'll be greeted by the dazzling spectacle of countless neon signs illuminating the night, with the iconic Glico man sign being the most renowned, where tourists often gather for snapshots. Dine at Dotonbori, a vibrant street that's home to some of the best restaurants Osaka has to offer. Regardless of what cuisine you crave, you'll find it in Dotonbori, making it the ideal spot to soak up the vibrant atmosphere of Osaka.

Dotonbori Ferris Wheel at Ebisu Tower
Just a three-minute stroll from Dotonbori Bridge lies the Don Quijote Dotonbori store, which is easily recognizable as it's visible even from the bridge! Atop the building sits the Ebisu Tower, a massive Ferris wheel that boasts a unique feature: virtual reality goggles! If you ride the Ferris wheel while wearing the VR goggles, you'll be treated to a 360° VR video that gives the sensation of floating in mid-air.

Gazing at iconic Osaka skyscrapers like Tsutenkaku and Abeno Harukas from the ferris wheel is a memory you'll remember for a long time to come.

The third day will be dedicated to exploring the city of Nara, which can be reached in a convenient 40-minute train ride from Osaka-Namba Station via the Kintetsu Line. Three prominent shrines that are a must-visit are Tōdaiji, Kasuga Taisha, and Kōfukuji. If you have time left after exploring these sites, we suggest visiting the Nara National Museum, particularly if you're a fan of Buddha statues. Alternatively, if you prefer shopping and cafes, consider taking a relaxed stroll around the Naramachi area.

Tōdaiji
To meet the Buddha statue that most people associate with Nara, head for Tōdaiji. This is the main shrine which contains the largest wooden-built Buddha Hall in the world!

Here you can find a famous pair of giant muscle-bound guardians at the temple's gateway; there are also many buildings that have been designated as national treasures and important cultural properties such as Nandaimon, Nigatsu-do, and Hokke-do (Sangatsu-do).

Kasuga Taisha
After visiting Tōdaiji, walk about 15 minutes to your next destination: Kasuga Taisha. It is said that the first deity of the shrine rode on a white deer, so the deer in this shrine are viewed as messengers of the deities and taken very good care of. The main hall of the shrine is considered a national treasure, and it stands out even among the rows of beautifully red-painted buildings here. The forest around the shrine exudes a tranquil air that immediately calms your mood upon stepping inside.

Have your fortune slip delivered to you by a deer or white deer that has been carefully carved from a block of wood. Each deer has a different facial expression, adding to their cuteness and making the fortune slips simply too hard to resist!

Kōfukuji
After you've had your fill of Kasuga Taisha, walk for about 15 minutes to Kōfukuji, where you can find buildings that are symbolic of the ancient city of Nara like pagodas, the Tōkondō Hall, Chū-Kondō Hall, and others. You'll also be able to see more Buddha statues like Ashura's statue, a relic of Japan's ancient Tenpyō Era (729 C.E. to 749 C.E.).

Nara's Cuisine
Numerous restaurants can be found near Nara Station on the Kintetsu Line, and we suggest trying a local dish called mackerel or salmon sushi wrapped in Japanese persimmon leaves. Additionally, you can sample narazuke, a Nara-style pickle made with melon or cucumber. For a complete local culinary experience, finish your meal with a snack or dish that features Yoshino Kudzu starch powder.

To reach Kobe, take a 1.5-hour train ride from Nara Station on the Kintetsu Line to Motomachi Station on the Hanshin Line. From there, head towards the south to reach Meriken Park.

Look around Kobe Tower, then hop on the Mosaic Big Ferris Wheel to enjoy the stunning night sights of stylish Kobe.

Numerous eateries offer delectable Kobe cuisine, and a considerable number of them are situated in Kobe Mosaic, which is conveniently accessible by foot from Sannomiya Station, Motomachi Station, and Kobe Station. Additionally, the city is renowned worldwide for its Kobe beef, a luxurious food item closely associated with Kobe. Moreover, since Kobe is a port city, you'll find an array of Western cuisine served with the city's irresistible demi-glace sauce. Don't forget to sample the Chinese cuisine available at Nankin-Machi, the city's Chinatown district, as well as the city's delectable desserts and fragrant bread.

You can also consider visiting the tearooms of some of Japan's most famous Western confectionery makers like Morozoff and Juchheim.

Kitano Ijinkan-Gai
On your final day in the Kansai region, wake up early and take a morning stroll through Kitano's Ijinkan-Gai, which is located a mere 15-minute walk from Sannomiya Station. Marvel at the impressive Western-style mansions that line the street, such as Moegi House, Kazamidori no Yakata, Uroko House, and other remnants of Kobe's dynamic and exotic past as a harbor city.

Ikuta Shrine
After basking in the surreal mood at Ijinkan-Gai, head for Ikuta Shrine, which is right smack in the middle of a bustling downtown district. Despite its location, the air around the shrine is clean and the building stands tall with a dignified elegance.

The god enshrined here is known for giving the gift of success in romance, so many newlyweds hold their marriage solemnizations in this shrine each day. Despite the fact that it was once destroyed in the war and by an earthquake, the shrine kept on being rebuilt, making people believe that the god residing here is a god of vitality as well. Take your time strolling around the Ikuta forest behind the shrine and recharge yourself with the abundance of negative ions there.

Kobe Nankin-Machi
Your final destination will be Kobe’s Nankin-Machi. From Ikuta Shrine, walk along Ikuta Road downhill and pass through Sannomiya Center-Gai to reach the place in about 10 minutes.

Enter through Choanmon Gate, the eastern entrance of Nankin-Machi, and you’ll find rows upon rows of restaurants and booths offering delicious Chinese cuisine. The sheer amount of visitors along the street is also proof of its popularity. This is a must-visit tourist hotspot of the Kansai region that needs to be on your itinerary for sure!

After drinking in your fill of the sights, it’s time to head back to Sannomiya from Motomachi, where you can take the Port Liner to Kobe Airport, then transfer to a ship to Kansai International Airport for your trip back home.

To cover the major tourist hotspots in the Kansai region within four days and three nights, it's imperative to make optimal use of the region's public transportation system to ensure a smooth trip. Despite the itinerary primarily featuring traditional shrines and temples in the ancient cities of Kyoto and Nara, ample time is allocated for leisurely exploration of Arashiyama, modern attractions in Osaka, and taking in the captivating night views of Kobe.

We trust that this Kansai region itinerary serves as an excellent reference for your planning needs.

English translation by: Huimin Pan