Keihanshin 京阪神

The Keihanshin metropolitan area in the Kansai region of Japan has a population of over 19 million people making it second in Japan only to the Tokyo metro area. It is home to Kyoto, Nara, Uji, Osaka, and Kobe along with some of Japan’s best cultural gems.

You can get around the entire region with local or regional subway, but there is also a bullet train from Kyoto to Osaka if you are in a rush. I would suggest spending most of your nights in Kyoto and doing some day trips to Nara and Uji. Osaka probably warrants its own night or two, but it can be done as a day trip too if you prefer.

Kyoto:

  • Too many temples to list, but there are many lists online you can look through such as this one from InsideKyoto.com.

  • Ippodo Tea Kyoto Main Store: The home of my favorite tea brand, Ippodo Tea Kyoto is a worthwhile stop on any tea lover’s trip. The staff are very friendly and you can explore all that Japanese tea has to offer while admiring the historical location. They have been serving high quality tea since 1717 and have long received renown from the Japanese royal family. Read more about their history here.

  • The Palace Grounds can be a relaxing walk to get away from some of the more crowded tourist destinations. I also suggest staying in this area to be centrally located for temple hopping.

  • Walk along the Kamo river and take the cute turtle shaped stepping stones across

Nara:

Uji:

  • Uji is the world’s most famous matcha producing region. It also features prominently in The Tale of Genji, Japan’s most classic novel and potentially the world’s first novel.

  • Matcha at Tsuen Tea, the oldest tea house in the world (founded in 1160)

  • Lunch at Aiso, get the unagi teishoku (eel lunch set)

  • The Phoenix Hall at Byodo-in Temple is featured on the 10 yen coin

  • Tour the Marukyu Koyamaen Matcha Factory. Even if you are not a big matcha drinker, it is fascinating to see what all goes into making the increasingly globally renowned beverage.

Osaka:

  • Osaka Castle is a must see. The castle itself is beautiful, but my favorite part was wandering around the surrounding gardens. Grab a can of corn soup from a vending machine (hot or cold depending on the season), find a spot to sit, and soak in the view.

  • Namba Yasaka Shrine

  • Walk along the Dotonbori River and enjoy the brilliant neon signs and giant octopus and crab hanging from the walls.

  • Mino-o Station: This town on the fringes of Osaka is an unlikely tourist destination but has a lovely walk up to Minoh Falls. In autumn, buy one of the momiji (maple leaf) tempura from a vendor along the way. Its not the most delicious item, but is a unique experience found only here.

  • teamLab Botanical Garden (immersive digital art, looks best at night)

(P.S. For general tips on Japan see my Tokyo page.)