Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri in Osaka
Aug 29, 2019 By Bert Wishart
With more than 300 years of history, the Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri is the oldest Danjiri Festival in Japan. Such festivals are held right throughout the country, but for most Japanese, if you say 'Danjiri Matsuri' this is the one, with its raucousness and inherent danger, that springs to mind. The...[ Click to read more ]
Top Cat Cafés in Kansai
Aug 20, 2019 By Justin Hanus
Big cities in Japan are known for their vibrant energy, but sometimes residents and tourists want a break from all this activity. In response, cat cafés have been popping up all over the country. These are much like regular coffee shops but there are cats wandering around freely for patrons...[ Click to read more ]
Eerie Places to Visit in Kansai
By Justin Hanus
“The Ring”, “The Grudge”, “Dark Water”... Japan in recent times is known for some of the scariest movies. Fans of giving themselves goosebumps will be pleased to discover that there are many real-life creepy experiences to be had in places that would make good settings for horror films (in fact,...[ Click to read more ]
Things You’ll Only Find in the Kansai Region
Jul 18, 2019 By Justin Hanus
Kansai is one of the most visited regions of Japan and has an allure for tourists because of its unique culture, architecture, history, and gastronomy, as well as the fact that it has been used for the setting of some of the most iconic movies of the last 50 years....[ Click to read more ]
Sekigahara: The Battle That Created Japan
Jul 17, 2019 By Bert Wishart
In 1600, Japan faced a turning point in its history. After more than a decade of comparative peace, the feudal era had been reinvigorated, and two sides of the country - the West and the East - were ready to do battle. The location of this critical coming together was...[ Click to read more ]
Climbing Mount Fuji
Jul 14, 2019 By Ray Proper
Fuji season is upon us again! The official climbing season for Fujisan, as it is known locally, is in July and August. While it is possible to climb during other months, it is a much riskier proposition that should be attempted only by experienced, physically fit, and well prepared climbers. ...[ Click to read more ]
Classic Films Set in Kansai
Jun 20, 2019 By Justin Hanus
Movies can be a great way of introducing people to exciting and scenic locations around the world and many films throughout the years have been set in places across Japan. Kansai has a wealth of vibrant and beautiful spots that have attracted scriptwriters and directors across the genres – from...[ Click to read more ]
Top Museums to Visit in Kansai
By Justin Hanus
If you’re interested in culture, history or art, some of the best places to visit are museums. There are some fascinating and unique museums throughout Japan, and nowhere more so than in Kansai. During your time in the region, make sure to pay a visit to as many of the...[ Click to read more ]
See the Best of Kansai’s Fireworks Displays
Jun 17, 2019 By Justin Hanus
One of the most exciting aspects of Japanese summers is the multitude of dazzling fireworks displays to enjoy. Originally, fireworks (花火, ‘Hanabi’) were thought to help ward off evil spirits, but the tradition is still going strong today among tourists and locals alike as a coveted summer pastime. With hundreds...[ Click to read more ]
How to Spend Easter in Kobe
Apr 15, 2019 By Justin Hanus
Easter is not generally celebrated in Japan, but the growing community of western expats in the country means that provisions for the festival have increased in recent years. If you're keen to get into the festive spirit in Kobe, here are a few suggestions on where to go and what...[ Click to read more ]
