According to the travel trends forecast compiled by JTB, one of Japan's leading travel companies, the number of Japanese domestic travelers during this year's Golden Week is estimated to be a record high of 24.5 million people, a 153.1% increase compared to 2022. Among the top travel destinations, "Kanto," including Tokyo, was the most popular with 20.0%, followed by "Kansai" with 16.8%, which includes Osaka and Kyoto.

As for the places people are interested in visiting during Golden Week, the most common responses were "places where they can enjoy natural scenery such as national parks and flower fields (29.7%)," "food-focused events (20.1%)," and "places where they can enjoy outdoor activities like mountain climbing and camping (15.2%)." Particularly, flower fields in full bloom and events that were previously suspended due to Covid-19 are expected to draw even more visitors this year.

Based on this year's Golden Week trends, we introduce popular tourist spots, tours, and experiences in Kansai that are rapidly gaining popularity on LIVE JAPAN. These are all highly crowded, so we recommend booking in advance. Don't miss out on these exciting activities!

Universal Studios Japan, a highly popular destination for tourists both from Japan and abroad, is currently offering two exciting programs that make the park feel like a festive carnival in the spring of 2023.

These programs include the annual and highly popular "Universal Easter Celebration," a world that is irresistibly cute and only available during this time from March 10th to July 2nd, as well as the "NO LIMIT! Street Festival," an impressive performance that allows everyone to dance and become one. Don't take your eyes off the fun events taking place at the park!

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At the new attraction in Osaka Maishima Seaside Park, the largest Nemophila festival in Kansai, featuring around one million Nemophila flowers and the breathtaking view of Osaka Bay and the blue sky, will be held from April 7th to May 7th, 2023. This is a must-see event during this period. Additionally, the park will feature a large-scale merchandising event selling official character "Nemo-nyan" goods, as well as food trucks offering treats such as baby castella cakes modeled after Nemo-nyan and blue soft-serve ice cream that reflects the image of Nemophila. There is something for everyone at this event!

For a limited time from April 8th to May 7th, "Life is Flickering Light Floating in the Dark - Nemophila" will be showcased at teamLab's Botanical Garden in Osaka. This unique and fantastic experience features a mesmerizing display of Nemophila flowers that glow brightly and emit sounds when people stop nearby, spreading the light and sound to surrounding flowers. In addition, visitors can enjoy various imaginative and interactive art spaces that utilize the vast array of plants in Nagai Botanical Garden at teamLab's Botanical Garden in Osaka.

Kyoto is full of famous landmarks and attractions, making it difficult to decide where to go. Why not join a day tour that efficiently covers popular sites in Kyoto? This tour includes visits to Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kiyomizu Temple, Kinkaku-ji, and Arashiyama, among others. You can enjoy unforgettable experiences, such as exploring Kiyomizu Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the beautiful Japanese garden of Kinkaku-ji, and the breathtaking Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of vermilion torii gates. The tour departs and returns to Osaka by bus, and you can make a last-minute reservation on the day of the trip, subject to availability. Some plans even include lunch. It is a very convenient option for those who want to make spontaneous travel plans.

In addition to the popular attractions within Kyoto city, there are many places to enjoy old-fashioned scenery and stunning views in the outskirts of Kyoto. This day tour covers Amanohashidate, one of Japan's three most scenic views, and Miyama, a place where beautiful Japanese landscapes still remain. This is the perfect season to enjoy the beautiful natural scenery with fresh greenery and comfortable weather. With delicious Japanese cuisine included in the tour, you will surely be satisfied throughout the day. Departing from and returning to Namba Station in Osaka or Kyoto Station, it is easy to incorporate this tour into your travel plans for either city.

Osaka and Kyoto are popular areas even during the Golden Week. Seasonal events are held, and there are many seasonal attractions such as flower fields. Check out the spots and tours we introduced this time and enjoy a unique Golden Week trip – but be sure to reserve your place as soon as you can!

*Ticket and tour availability changes constantly, so please check the booking site for the latest information.
*The information in this article is current as of April 2023. For the most up-to-date information, please visit the official website.