Here’s the place to visit if you’re traveling to Kansai!
Recommended sightseeing spots &
hotel/ryokan
The Kansai region is a captivating area where tradition and modernity coexist in Japan. It is filled with a wide variety of attractions, including the vibrant streets and culinary delights of Osaka, the historical temples and beautiful gardens of Kyoto, the rich nature and culture of Hyogo, the natural beauty of Lake Biwa in Shiga, the tranquility of Nara’s ancient capital, the majestic coastline of Wakayama, and the revered Ise Shrine in Mie. Would you like to create heartwarming travel memories in Kansai?
Recommended hot spring towns in Kansai ▼
Introducing recommended hot spring towns in Kansai
Popular accommodation ranking by area ▼
Introducing the top 5 most popular hotels in Kansai
By area
5 recommended sightseeing spots
Dotonbori
Dotonbori is a bustling shopping district that symbolizes the vitality of Osaka, and is attractive for its diverse cuisine and neon lights. The Glico sign and lively atmosphere attract tourists.
Osaka Castle
Osaka Castle is a historic site with a magnificent castle tower and beautiful stone walls. During the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons, you can enjoy the natural beauty that colors the castle.
Abeno Harukas
Abeno Harukas is the tallest skyscraper in Japan. It offers a spectacular view of Osaka city from its observation deck, and you can also enjoy shopping and art galleries.
Namba Yasaka Shrine
Namba Yasaka Shrine is famous for its large lion-shaped hall, which is said to swallow evil spirits. Many visitors come to pray for academic success and passing exams.
Minoo Falls
Minoo Falls is a powerful 33-meter-high waterfall that is attractive for its natural beauty in every season, especially in autumn when the contrast with the autumn leaves is spectacular.
in Osaka Prefecture
Hanamikoji
Hanamikoji is lined with brothels where maiko live, restaurants, sweet shops, etc. There are also many fun spots such as cafes and souvenir shops.
Nishiki market
Nishiki Market is a lively shopping street where you can experience Kyoto’s food culture. It is lined with fresh ingredients and traditional Kyoto cuisine, and you can enjoy eating your way around.
Path of Philosophy
The Philosopher’s Path is a quiet path lined with cherry blossom trees, where you can enjoy nature throughout the seasons. It is a popular place to take a stroll and relax.
Amanohashidate
Amanohashidate is one of the three most scenic spots in Japan, and is known for its sandbar lined with pine trees. The “Hiryukan” observation deck offers a magnificent view, and you can enjoy the natural beauty of the four seasons.
Ine Boathouses
The architecture faces the sea, with a boat garage on the first floor and living space on the second floor. The town is attractive for its picturesque scenery and beautiful streetscape where the sea and everyday life are one.
in Kyoto Prefecture
Meriken Park
Meriken Park is an open park with a beautiful view of Kobe Port. It is also home to many tourist attractions, including the Kobe Port Tower and the Maritime Museum.
Kitano Foreigners’ House Street
Kitano Ijinkan Street is lined with historical buildings that exude an exotic atmosphere, allowing you to enjoy a stroll through a world of different cultures. The area is also home to many fashionable cafes and shops.
Mt. Rokko
A mountain that stretches from east to west from Takarazuka to Suma. It is home to a variety of facilities, including an alpine botanical garden, a music box museum, a garden terrace, and a tree house.
Awaji Island
Awaji Island is known for its beautiful nature and rich food. It is an island with a resort feel, where you can enjoy spectacular coastline views, hot springs, Awaji beef, and fresh seafood.
Takeda Castle Ruins
Takeda Castle Ruins is popular as a fantastical “castle in the sky” floating in a sea of clouds. Its spectacular seasonal scenery and historic stone walls attract many tourists.
in Hyogo Prefecture
Biwako Valley
Biwako Valley boasts a spectacular view of Lake Biwa and offers a wide range of activities to enjoy throughout the year, with skiing being especially popular in the winter.
Metasequoia of Makino Highlands
The Metasequoia Tree Line of Makino Highlands is a spectacular sight with about 500 trees lined up. The scenery changes with the seasons, and the autumn foliage is especially spectacular.
Omihachiman
A castle town opened by Toyotomi Hidetsugu, the townscape is reminiscent of the Edo period, with the Hachimanbori canal, which was used for water transportation on Lake Biwa, merchants’ residences, and storehouses.
Kurokabe Square
The facility has been repurposed from historical buildings and is centered around the Kurokabe Glass Museum in Building No. 1, offering everything you need to see, play, shop and eat along the Hokkoku Kaido road.
Shigaraki
Shigaraki is known as a pottery town, especially famous for its raccoon dog figurines. You can tour traditional Shigaraki ware workshops and enjoy a pottery experience.
in Shiga Prefecture
Nara Park
Nara Park is a vast park where historical buildings and nature coexist in harmony, and the attraction is being able to interact with the free-roaming deer. You can also enjoy the scenery throughout the seasons.
Streets of Imaicho
The charm of this area lies in its traditional streetscape that retains the atmosphere of the Edo period. Lined with preserved old houses and historical buildings, you can enjoy a stroll that feels like you’ve traveled back in time.
Soni Plateau
The Soni Plateau is a scenic spot with a vast pampas grass field. In autumn, the golden scenery is attractive, and you can enjoy a walk in the refreshing breeze.
Yoshinoyama
It is famous as the best cherry blossom viewing spot in Japan, with a total of about 30,000 mountain cherry trees blooming in a spectacular display of “a thousand at a glance.” The hydrangeas, autumn leaves, and snowscapes are also beautiful.
Tanize Suspension Bridge
Tanize Suspension Bridge is the longest non-tourist road bridge in Japan, offering a thrilling experience overlooking the magnificent valley.
in Nara Prefecture
Shirarahama
Shirarahama Beach is a beautiful beach with pure white sand and blue sea. You can enjoy a resort atmosphere, and in the summer it is bustling with people who come here for swimming and fireworks festivals.
Hashikui Rock
Hashiguiiwa is attractive for its spectacular scenery created by the strange rock formations that stretch out over the sea. The silhouettes of the rocks at sunrise and sunset are particularly mystical and photogenic.
Engetsu Island
Engetsuto Island is attractive for its unique shape with a hole in the middle. The view of the setting sun passing through the hole is spectacular, and it is a symbolic photo spot of Wakayama.
Maruyama Senmaida
Maruyama Senmaida is known for its beautiful terraced rice fields that spread out among the mountains. You can enjoy the scenery throughout the four seasons, and the sunset reflected on the rice fields is particularly impressive.
Kumano Kodo
The Kumano Kodo is a mystical pilgrimage route that combines history and nature. Walking along it while feeling the atmosphere of the past offers a special experience that heals the body and mind.
in Wakayama Prefecture
Okage Yokocho
Okage Yokocho is an area that recreates the traditional streets of Ise, where you can enjoy local gourmet food and crafts. It is full of charm with its lively atmosphere and culture.
Kashikojima Espana Cruise
Kashikojima is known for its spectacular views of Ago Bay and its pearl culture. On the Kashikojima Espana Cruise, you can enjoy a panoramic view from the sea as you cruise around the beautiful bay.
Yokoyama Observatory
Yokoyama Observatory is a scenic spot where you can get a panoramic view of Ago Bay. The view at dusk is particularly impressive. There is also a promenade, so you can enjoy a nature walk.
Suzuka Circuit
Suzuka Circuit is a prestigious course where international races are held. It is also attractive for its exciting race viewing and family-friendly facilities where you can enjoy attractions.
Akame 48 Waterfalls
Akame Shijuhachitaki is a valley filled with negative ions, with many waterfalls stretching over a distance of about 4km. It is the home of the Iga Ninja, and you can even experience training there.
in Mie Prefecture
Recommended hot spring towns in Kansai
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This famous hot spring springs up in a famous spot that flourished as a villa for aristocrats since the Heian period. Along with the scenery of Arashiyama, which exudes the atmosphere of an ancient capital, this hot spring area has a sense of eternal history.
Search for accommodations around Arashiyama Onsen -
This hot spring town is a great place to enjoy a tour of the seven unique outdoor baths. You can enjoy the hot springs while taking a leisurely stroll in a yukata robes. Don’t miss the atmospheric scenery of the hot spring town.
Search for accommodations around Kinosaki Onsen -
Known as one of the three oldest hot springs in Japan, it offers two types of water: Kinsen and Ginsen. Kinsen is a reddish-brown water that contains iron and has excellent heat retention properties. Ginsen is a colorless, transparent carbonated spring that is gentle on the skin.
Search for accommodations around Arima Onsen -
This hot spring resort is surrounded by beautiful sea and mountains, and you can enjoy the hot springs while savoring seafood. You can refresh your mind and body in the open-air bath with a spectacular view of Ise Bay. There are also plenty of sightseeing spots nearby, such as Toba Aquarium and Mikimoto Pearl Island.
Search for accommodations around Toba Onsen -
This hot spring resort offers a historic resort atmosphere with a spectacular view of the Pacific Ocean. Tourist attractions include Shirahama Beach, with its beautiful white sand beach, and Engetsuto Island. The hot springs are highly effective for beautifying the skin and soothing the body and mind.
Search for accommodations around Shirahama Onsen -
Located on the shores of Lake Biwa, this hot spring resort allows you to relax while enjoying the beautiful lakeside scenery. Hiei Mountain and the historical sites of Otsu are also nearby, making this an attractive spot where you can enjoy sightseeing and hot springs at the same time.
Search for accommodations around Ogoto Onsen
By area
Popular hotels ＆
ryokan in Kansai
The Singulari Hotel & Skyspa at Universal Studios Japan
Osaka Prefecture > Universal City
Conveniently located just a 1-minute walk from JR Universal City Station and a 5-minute walk from USJ. In the open-air observation bath, you can relax your tired body while looking at the night view of Osaka Bay.
OMO7 Osaka by Hoshino Resorts
Osaka Prefecture > Tennoji
Right in front of Shin-Imamiya Station! Within walking distance to Shinsekai and Tsutenkaku. Easy access to USJ by shuttle bus. At night, you can enjoy “PIKAPIKA Night” in the garden area “Miyagurin”.
Nissin Nanba Inn
Osaka Prefecture > Nanba
Conveniently located just a 5-minute walk from Daikokucho Station on the Midosuji Subway Line and 10 minutes from Namba Station. All rooms are equipped with a mini-kitchen and microwave. Complimentary light breakfast provided.
Hotel Trusty Osaka Abeno
Osaka Prefecture > Tennoji
Directly connected to Tennoji Station! Conveniently located just 1 minute walk from the station. 30 minutes to the Expo site, with plenty of shopping and leisure options in the area. Perfect for business and sightseeing.
Hotel Kintetsu Universal City
Osaka Prefecture > Universal City
About 1 minute walk from JR Universal City Station. There is a large hot spring bath (fee required) on the 31st floor, 110 meters above ground, where you can relax your tired body while looking at the night view.
in Osaka Prefecture
Momijiya Bekkan Kawa no Iori
Kyoto Prefecture > Kaohsiung
A 30-minute drive from Kyoto Station, this mountain village in the ancient capital is surrounded by a beautiful forest of Kitayama cedars. It is a cooler summer resort than Kyoto city, and is a quiet hideaway spot, with autumn foliage and riverside cuisine as its attractions.
Saka Hotel Kyoto
Kyoto Prefecture > Higashiyama Ward
Located on the approach to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, this hotel is filled with a Japanese atmosphere. Enjoy the tranquil Japanese garden, guest rooms with cypress baths, and the luxury of relaxing in a sake bath – you can fully enjoy the atmosphere of the ancient capital.
Arashiyama Onsen Saishiki no Yado Hanaikada
Kyoto Prefecture > Arashiyama
A hot spring inn located in the heart of Arashiyama, at the foot of Togetsukyo Bridge. Conveniently located just 3 minutes from the station, it is ideal for sightseeing. Enjoy the open-air bath with a spectacular view of the four seasons and Kyoto kaiseki cuisine made with seasonal ingredients.
Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel Kyoto Premier Sanjo Kamogawa
Kyoto Prefecture > Nakagyo Ward
Located along the Kamo River, this is an ideal base for exploring Kyoto. Enjoy high-quality relaxation in spacious rooms with a modern Japanese atmosphere. Relax both body and mind in the large public bath overlooking the relaxing Japanese garden.
Tawaraya Ryokan
Kyoto Prefecture > Nakagyo Ward
Tawaraya Ryokan is one of Kyoto’s most well-established ryokan. It is conveniently located about a 10-minute taxi ride from JR Kyoto Station, and has inherited the history and traditions of about 300 years since its establishment.
in Kyoto Prefecture
Kinosaki Onsen Nishimuraya Honkan
Hyogo Prefecture > Kinosaki Onsen
A long-established inn in Kinosaki Onsen. The traditional Japanese-style building and guest rooms overlook the garden and are filled with a Japanese atmosphere. The famous hot springs and specialty crab dishes are also appealing.
Hotel Piena Kobe
Hyogo Prefecture > Kobe
It has been ranked number one in TripAdvisor’s “Hotels with the Best Breakfasts” for seven consecutive years since 2013. It features sophisticated European-style guest rooms and interior decoration.
Arima Onsen Hyoe Koyokaku
Hyogo Prefecture > Arima Onsen
This 700-year-old traditional inn stands on the hilltop of Arima Onsen. It has three large baths, the best in Arima, each with its own unique atmosphere, allowing you to fully enjoy bathing in the famous Arima hot springs.
Onishiya Suishoen
Hyogo Prefecture > Kinosaki Onsen
The inn is entirely furnished with tatami mats and exudes a purely Japanese atmosphere. The guest rooms are equipped with kotatsu, and the courtyard with its babbling brook, bonfires and Noh stage create a fantastical atmosphere.
Ooedo-Onsen-Monogatari Premium Kinosaki
Hyogo Prefecture > Kinosaki Onsen
After enjoying the hot springs and meals at this modern Japanese onsen inn, put on your yukata and head out to “visit the outdoor baths.” The inn also lends out baskets, geta sandals, and hanten coats. Enjoy a stroll through the charming town of Kinosaki Onsen.
in Hyogo Prefecture
Aonokotei Biwafront Hikone
Shiga Prefecture > Hikone
A wellness resort located on the shores of Lake Biwa. You can enjoy the magnificent view of Lake Biwa from every room. The private hot spring water, which springs from 1,500 meters underground on the premises, has a thick spring quality that is excellent for beautiful skin.
Hikone Castle Resort & Spa
Shiga Prefecture > Hikone
This resort hotel is located in a special seat with a close-up view of Hikone Castle. It boasts a large public bath with a view of the castle tower. Teppanyaki restaurant “Ho-o” serves Omi beef, and “Tachibana Sho” serves kaiseki cuisine.
Hikone Lakeside Ryokan Futabaso
Shiga Prefecture > Hikone
Located on the shores of Lake Biwa, just a one-minute walk from the lake. The only lakeside inn in Hikone City. Enjoy beautiful sunsets and cuisine made with certified Omi beef.
Biwako Ryokusuitei
Shiga Prefecture > Ogoto Onsen
This inn is located on the shores of Lake Biwa near Ogoto Onsen. The design concept is to soothe the fatigue of your journey, with rooms equipped with open-air baths that use Ogoto Onsen water and a terrace overlooking Lake Biwa.
Satoyu Mukashibanashi Yuzanso
Shiga Prefecture > Ogoto Onsen
This inn is located in the Omi countryside overlooking Lake Biwa. There are 53 rooms with open-air baths. The restaurant is proud of its cuisine, which is made with local ingredients by the chef, who has received the “Oumi Master Craftsman” award.
in Shiga Prefecture
Edosan
Nara Prefecture > Nara
Located within Nara Park, this ryokan inn was founded in 1907. Just step outside and you’ll be surrounded by deer, creating a charming environment. The grounds are dotted with sukiya-style detached buildings.
Mikasa Ryokan
Nara Prefecture > Nara
This is a relaxing Japanese-style inn with a view of the cityscape and night view of Nara, where a herd of deer play in the garden. You can fully enjoy the charm of the ancient capital of Nara in every season.
Nara Hotel
Nara Prefecture > Nara
A guest house in the ancient capital where time flows slowly. Founded in 1909 as the “Kansai Guest House,” Nara Hotel celebrated its 100th anniversary in October 2009.
Yoshinoso Yukawaya
Nara Prefecture > Yoshino
A long-established inn located in Mount Yoshino, a World Heritage Site famous for its cherry blossoms. The elegant space, made using Yoshino wood, is an attraction. Enjoy a blissful time with mountain banquet cuisine and a spectacular open-air bath.。
Koto-no-yado Musashino
Nara Prefecture > Nara
Located in Nara Park, this is the oldest inn in Nara Prefecture. You’ll often encounter deer when you step out the front door, allowing you to enjoy the unique scenery of Nara up close.
in Nara Prefecture
Hotel Urashima
Wakayama Prefecture > Katsuura
You can explore the hot springs in the hotel, including the large cavern hot spring “Boukido” that overlooks the Pacific Ocean. The hotel is set on a vast site the size of four Tokyo Domes. This is a place that will delight adventurous children.
Henjokoin
Wakayama Prefecture > Mount Koya
This historic temple lodge is home to the Amida Buddha statue by Kaikei and a place associated with Emperor Shirakawa. You can enjoy valuable experiences such as viewing national treasures and important cultural properties, morning services, and copying sutras.
Jimyoin
Wakayama Prefecture > Mount Koya
This is a relaxing temple lodge surrounded by a vast garden designed by gardener Mori Un. There are plenty of things to see, including seasonal scenery and historical buildings. You can enjoy traditional vegetarian cuisine in your room.
Shirahama Key Terrace Hotel Seamore
Wakayama Prefecture > Shirahama
The resort’s attractions include ocean view rooms with spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, natural hot springs, luxurious free-flowing water from its own hot spring source, and cuisine made with fresh local ingredients.
Koyasan Onsen Fukuchi-in
Wakayama Prefecture > Mount Koya
The guest rooms are surrounded by a large garden designed by Mirei Shigemori, a famous landscape gardener of the Showa era, and are fully air-conditioned. The indoor bath at Koyasan Onsen is open 24 hours hours a day.
in Wakayama Prefecture
Hotel Nagashima
Mie Prefecture > Nagashima
A resort complex in Kuwana City, Mie Prefecture. An amusement park, a pool, and the Anpanman Museum are right in front of you. The 100% natural hot spring baths in the rooms and the buffet are attractive. Each facility is directly connected by a special gate. You can also enjoy hot springs and shopping.
Kashikojima Hojoen
Mie Prefecture > Kashikojima
Kashikojima Hoshoen has ocean views from all rooms, allowing you to enjoy the view of Ago Bay. It consists of two buildings, Kayo and Sanyo, and the baths and other facilities are shared between the two buildings.
Garden Hotel Olive
Mie Prefecture > Nagashima
It is located at the mouth of three major rivers, the Kiso, Nagara, and Ibi rivers, facing Ise Bay on one side and in a corner of Nagashima Spa Land with a view of the Suzuka mountain range in the distance on the other.
Hotel Vison
Mie Prefecture > Taki Town
The hotel was built with the concept of “a lodging facility with facilities that connect you with the environment” and uses wood from Mie Prefecture for its construction.
Toba Seaside Hotel
Mie Prefecture > Toba
An excellent location with a beautiful view of Toba Bay. Enjoy bathing in the large baths, each with its own unique atmosphere. Relax and enjoy the flavors of Ise-Shima.
in Mie Prefecture
Last updated: May 15, 2025
