WONDER AROUNDKANSAI

The UNESCO World Heritage sites of the former capital Kyoto give unforgettable insights into Japanese history, but across Japan are numerous, less heralded (and less visited) destinations that can transport travelers back in time. Be it the tales unearthed in castle ruins or fortresses that have withstood the tests of time, a journey to Japan’s Kansai region and the islands of Okinawa can offer travelers fresh insights into Japan’s past and the moments that shaped its future.

Some of Japan’s most extraordinary natural landscapes and world cultural heritage sites can be found right outside its popular major cities. Thanks to an efficient and tourist-friendly system of bullet trains, known as shinkansen, visitors can access once-distant locations on an unforgettable day trip or weekend getaway. Embarking from Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya, explore a deeper side of Japanese culture and immerse yourself in nature with these six captivating weekend getaways.

While the Kansai region is well known for the high-octane buzz of Osaka and the Unesco-designated temples, shrines and gardens of Kyoto and Nara, it’s also Japan’s culinary heart, with numerous opportunities for travellers to immerse themselves in Japanese food culture, both on and off the traditional tourist trail. A farm-stay in the Nara countryside, sampling sake in Hyogo, and dining on plant-based Buddhist cuisine at a temple in Wakayama are just a few of the Kansai experiences that await. You could add a seafood lunch with Ama divers in Mie or a trip to Kyoto’s tea fields, plus much more.

The ancient capital of Nara—Kyoto and Tokyo’s predecessor—still flourishes with its curated traditional streetscapes, ancient temples and shrines, and culinary heritage boasting both heirloom vegetables and delectable sake.