Best Nature around Kansai Spot List

A large rock protruding into the ocean

Have fun at a mountain villa that belonged to a samurai film actor

One of Nara’s most famous gardens

A beautiful mountain overlooking the city of Nara

A relaxing spot above the pond

Enjoy both city and nature with the ocean breeze

Lots to enjoy, lots of ways to enjoy it

View three gardens, each with its own unique charm

Founded by Kobo-Daishi Kukai, this is a sacred place of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism, boasting a history of 1,200 years. Scattered across the mountain at approximately 900 meters above sea level are 117 temples, including Kongobu-ji Temple, forming a large religious town. With Danjogaran and Okuno-in at its core, this sacred territory has been visited by large number of Kukai's followers. Since the town is surrounded by forests, Mt. Koya is a great place to enjoy some hiking while visiting the temples.

A seaside park with great views

This is a park that was built by reconstructing and maintaining a scenic spot called Maiko Beach. Stretching about 800 meters along the coast, the beach is the best location to view the illumination of the Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge. It's a great spot for spending a romantic moment with the gentle sound of the surf as the backdrop. Pets are not allowed in the beach area.

This is the remains of the garden of Daijo-in Temple, which was a monzeki temple (a temple of high rank where members of the imperial family and nobility enter the priesthood) of Kofuku-ji Temple. After the restoration was completed in 2010, these remains were made open to the public. You can also see them from Daijo-in Temple Garden Culture Hall located in the south of the garden.

A famous spot for cherry blossoms which line a path along the Okawa River

Towering about 700 meters high, Mt. Maya lies in the central part of Rokko mountain range. The night view of Kobe seen from Kikuseidai near the mountaintop is famous as one of new three best night views in Japan. Legend has it that the name comes from the fact that Kobo-Daishi enshrined the statue of Shaka’s mother, Maya, on the mountain.

Located right in the heart of America Mura is Mitsu Park. Commonly known as Sankaku Park (triangle park) because of its shape, this spot is a magnet for young people all day long and doubles as a convenient meeting place.