The Kansai region, encompassing Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe,
offers a wealth of culture, history, and immersive experiences.
The highway that starts in Osaka and continues to the
western regions (towards Kyushu)
is also known as the "Saigoku Kaido,"
and was an important main route during the Edo period.
On this tour, you will follow this route
and visit various famous landmarks along the way.
For travelers seeking a mix of adventure and tranquility,
Kansai delivers many opportunities to explore bustling cityscapes,
serene gardens, historical sites,
and satisfying hands-on activities that allow guests to
immerse themselves in Japanese culture and history.
This three-day itinerary highlights a journey through Kansai's history,
traditions, scenery, and cuisine,
providing a memorable introduction to the
region’s rich heritage and creativity.
The journey begins in Sakai City with a Zazen meditation session at Myōhō-ji Temple.
Participants are introduced to meditation techniques, focusing on controlled breathing and mindfulness to experience a sense of peace and serenity away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The next stop was a traditional tea ceremony at Daisen Park’s Tea Room Shinan.
Originally constructed in 1929 by a renowned architect Rodo Ogi and relocated to Sakai in 1980, the tea house exemplifies Japanese aesthetics and tradition.
Guests learn about the sadō (way of tea) from a skilled tea host (teishu), who demonstrates the preparation of matcha and serves it with wagashi (traditional sweets).
Guests also have the opportunity to whisk their own bowl of matcha.
The beautiful garden surrounding the tea room features the Kyu-Jōdo-ji (nine-story stone pagoda, designated as an important cultural property, as a centerpiece.
Lunch is served on-site at Tea Room Shinan, featuring a seasonal bento box with dishes such as tempura, tamagoyaki, and fresh vegetables.
The meal, complemented by views of the garden and tranquil flowing waters of the pond, provides a serene atmosphere and a sensory connection to the natural beauty of the area as well as a reminder of why Japan’s cuisine is so widely sought after.
A 20-minute boat ride along the inner moat aboard a traditional Gozabune offer unique perspectives of the castle’s walls and surrounding scenery.
Inside the Tenshukaku (main tower), visitors explore exhibits of samurai armor and historical artifacts, culminating in a 360-degree panoramic view from the observatory, with sights such as the Umeda Sky Building and Abeno Harukas visible in the distance.
The hotel also features a museum, where guests can enjoy contemporary art exhibitions, one of its unique offerings.
Additionally, the hotel's convenient access to famous spots like Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi-Suji Shopping Street made it easy to enjoy sightseeing and shopping.
Day two begins in Shioya Town, a quaint fishing village known for its seaweed production.
The walking tour highlights local specialties, including senbei (rice crackers), unagi sushi, hot croquettes, and artisanal coffee.
Visitors also explore small businesses such as a tatami factory and seafood shops, gaining insight into the tight-knit community by being able to speak with local shop owners. Scenic views of Mount Rokko and Awaji Island provided a stunning backdrop for this culinary exploration.
A guided cycling tour through Himeji Castle Town.
Starting near Himeji Station, participants ride through historical streets, stopping at landmarks such as Kokoen Garden and the Lane of Senhime.
Yumenoien "Yūyake Koyake," a traditional ryokan offering a serene riverside setting.
Amenities included cotton yukata, geta (wooden sandals), and an open-air onsen with stunning sunset views.
The kaiseki dinner features local delicacies providing a culinary experience steeped in regional flavors.
Focus on craftsmanship with a knife forging workshop led by bladesmith Hayamitsu Kikyo who is happy to share his personal experiences and anecdotes about his profession and the community.
Here, you can experience creating your own knife. Under guidance, you will go through the process of using fire to hammer and polish metal to craft a small knife.
Upon trying this, you will realize just how much concentration and patience it requires; creativity and dedication are embedded in the traditional art of blade-making.
We accept requests for this plan.
※After receiving your inquiry, we will check the availability and we will let you know if it is possible to make a reservation.
| Up to 21 days before | 0% |
|---|---|
| 20 to 8 days before | 20% |
| 7 to 2 days before | 30% |
| The previous day | 40% |
| On the day (before departure) | 50% |
| On the day (after the departure time, without contacting us) | 100% |
| Address | 8F Nankai SK Namba Building, 1-10-4 Nambanaka, Naniwa-ku, Osaka 556 0011 |
|---|---|
| Registration Number | Commissioner of the Japan Tourism Agency Registered Travel Agency No. 29 |
| Member of the Travel Agents Association | Full Member, Japan Association of Travel Agents |
