Best around Kansai Spot List

Known for “the evening bell of Mii-dera”, one of the Eight Views of Omi

A temple built upon the request of Emperor Tenmu during the Hakuho Period. Reconstructed in recent years, the temple structures showcase beautiful, vibrant colors.

Enjoy invention and discovery through exhibits and experiences

Daily necessities, stationery, and more. There’s also a theater!

Karaoke and a rock sauna at an open-air bath overlooking the ocean. Pets welcome

A select shop with a wide selection of books and goods

The shrine to the north of the main hall of Kiyomizu-dera Temple, whose spirit is worshipped as a deity of marriage. A pair of guardian stones in the grounds known as ”Koi uranai-no-Ishi” dates back to the Jomon period.

Enjoy good food with high-quality, spacious rooms and hot springs

Lots of beautiful roses

Formerly Kumano Hayatama Taisha Shrine, this shrine is located on the grounds where Kumano’s three deities descended

Maiko hurry back and forth at night amongst establishments fit for heads of state

Founded in 1895 for the 1,100th anniversary of the relocation of the capital city to the Heian-kyo, the shrine reproduces the Imperial Palace of the Heian-kyo. It enshrines Emperor Kanmu and Emperor Komei.

Famous for its natural boulder cave bath

Arima Hot Spring, located an hour's trip away from Osaka, is known as a retreat in the Kyoto, Osaka and Kobe areas. It is famous for being one of Japan's three oldest hot springs.

An enormous spa resort with an undervalued hotel

A shrine affiliated with boars and protection for the lower body

The main training center for Shingon Esoteric Buddhism with its iconic five-story pagoda, the key landmark of Kyoto's scenery. The temple is known as ”Daishi's temple.”

Relax in a tranquil environment surrounded by bamboo

Introducing Ekoin, a popular shukubo (temple lodging) at Mt. Koya (Koyasan) that has gained great popularity among LIVE JAPAN readers. Due to its high demand, it is recommended to make reservations about 4 months in advance. Staying here provides an opportunity to enjoy quiet time and traditional cultural experiences, and is sure to refresh both mind and body.

Kudo-no-kami, the god of the kitchen, is enshrined here