Kansai – Welcome to the Cultural Heart of Japan
The Kansai region is where you can truly feel the soul of Japanese culture and the warmth of its people. From ancient temples and traditional performing arts to world-renowned cuisine, breathtaking nature, and numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Kansai offers a richness that is distinct from Tokyo.
Here, you’ll encounter the essence of Japan.
Overview of the Kansai Region
The Kansai Region is located in western Japan and consists of seven prefectures: Osaka, Kyoto, Hyogo, Shiga, Nara, Wakayama, and Mie. As the cultural heartland of Japan, Kansai is home to the country’s most significant historical sites, centuries-old traditions, and a diverse food culture.
With world-famous destinations such as Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara, the region is one of the most popular areas for international travelers seeking a deeper connection with Japan’s heritage.
Recommended Destinations by Prefecture
Osaka
Character:
Top destinations:The largest city in Kansai—dynamic, fun, and known for its incredible street food.
- Dotonbori: A lively district famous for neon lights and gourmet delights
- Osaka Castle: A landmark blending history and modernity
- Universal Studios Japan (USJ): One of the world’s premier theme parks
Kyoto
Character: Japan’s ancient capital—where tradition and culture remain beautifully preserved.
Top destinations:
- Kiyomizu-dera, Kinkaku-ji, Ginkaku-ji: Iconic temples representing Japan’s classical beauty
- Fushimi Inari Shrine: The mystical pathway of thousands of red torii gates
- Gion & Arashiyama: Historic neighborhoods and stunning nature
Hyogo
Character: A diverse region with port towns, hot springs, and one of Japan’s greatest castles.
Top destinations:
- Kobe Harborland: A stylish waterfront cityscape
- Himeji Castle: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and Japan’s most spectacular original castle
- Arima Onsen: One of Japan’s oldest hot spring resorts
Nara
Character: Japan’s first capital—deeply connected to Buddhist culture and ancient history.
Top destinations:
- Todaiji Temple & the Great Buddha: A monumental statue and historic temple
- Nara Park: Famous for its friendly free-roaming deer
- Mount Yoshino: A legendary cherry blossom destination and UNESCO site
Shiga
Character:
Top destinations:Home to Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest lake, and peaceful historical landscapes.
- Lake Biwa: Cruising, water sports, and lakeside views
- Hikone Castle: A national treasure with a charming castle town
- Omihachiman: A traditional canal district with white-walled buildings
Wakayama
Character: A nature-rich retreat famous for pilgrimage routes and healing hot springs.
Top destinations:
- Kumano Kodo: A sacred UNESCO pilgrimage trail
- Mount Koya: The spiritual center founded by Kobo Daishi
- Shirahama Onsen & Adventure World: Coastal hot springs and a popular family theme park
Mie
Character: A sacred region centered around Ise Grand Shrine, with stunning coastal landscapes.
Top destinations:
- Ise Jingu: The spiritual heart of Japanese Shinto
- Shima Spain Village & Toba Aquarium: Great for families and leisure trips
- Nabana no Sato (Winter Illuminations): A magical world of seasonal lights
How Your Trip Comes Together
When you begin discussing a private trip with your family or friends, feel free to contact MaximTravelers at any time. We are happy to assist you.
Tell us about your preferred destination, dates, trip length, number of travelers, budget, and any other requests by filling out the travel preference questionnaire on our inquiry page.
We will make a follow-up consultations as needed via email or online meeting such as Zoom.
We will prepare an initial trip proposal for you. Using this as a starting point, we will gather
additional requests and make revisions as needed until the final version is completed.
Once you agree to the proposal, please fill out the travel application form (we will send you
the link) and return it together with the required deposit.
| Trip Price per Person | Deposit Required (per person) |
|---|---|
| Under ¥150,000- | ¥20,000- |
| ¥150,000–¥299,999 | ¥30,000- |
| ¥300,000 or more | ¥50,000- |
If your application is made within 1 month of departure, the full trip price is due at the time
of booking.
Your contract is considered confirmed once we receive your deposit.
We will then send you a written contract detailing your trip.
Please pay the remaining balance by bank transfer by the due date stated in the contract.
(For security reasons, we do not accept cash payments or credit cards. Thank you for your understanding.)
If you must cancel your trip, the following cancellation fees will apply:
| Cancellation Timing | Fee |
|---|---|
| 30 days to 1 day before departure | 20% of the trip price |
| 2 days before departure | 50% of the trip price |
| After departure or no-show | 100% of the trip price |
Please note: If flights, hotels, tickets, or other arrangements have already been booked at the time of cancellation, any fees required to cancel those reservations will be charged separately.
We will send your final travel itinerary (“Travel Guidebook”) approximately one week before departure. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us anytime.
On the day before departure, we will send an e-mail to the group representative for final confirmation.
On your departure day, please arrive at the meeting point on time.
We wish you a wonderful and safe journey!
Explore Other Regions of Japan
Hokkaido
Tohoku
Kanto
Chubu
Kansai
Chugoku
Shikoku
Kyushu & Okinawa