Kansai

Kyoto, Nara and Osaka.

The Short List

Cities · UNESCO

Japan's old capital, with Fushimi Inari's gates, geisha, Kinkaku-ji and quiet gardens.

Guide Coming Soon

Must-See

Heritage · UNESCO

Tame deer around the world's largest wooden building, with its giant Buddha.

Guide Coming Soon

Cities · Food

Japan's kitchen, with Dotonbori's neon and street food, and a grand castle.

Guide Coming Soon

Worth a Detour

Heritage · UNESCO

Hyogo

Japan's finest original castle, called the White Heron.

Guide Coming Soon

Worth a Detour

Spiritual · UNESCO

Wakayama

Temple stays and old pilgrimage trails.

Guide Coming Soon

Worth a Detour

Spiritual · Shinto

Mie

Shinto's holiest site, rebuilt every 20 years.

Guide Coming Soon

Festivals & Seasons · UNESCO

Kyoto

Kyoto's huge July float festival.

Guide Coming Soon

Grey pins: guides still being written.