Things to do
9 best cherry blossom day trips from Osaka in 2026 – sakura illuminations included
This spring, explore these top-rated sakura spots in Kyoto, Nara, Himeji and Kobe – all an easy train ride from Osaka
Travel
Travel tips and guides to Kansai destinations near Osaka, from Kyoto to Kobe. Your day trips from Osaka start here
Things to do
7 best cherry blossom events and illuminations in Kyoto for 2026
Plan your 2026 spring trip with our guide to Kyoto's best temples and gardens for sakura and night illuminations
Things to do
Himeji Castle raises entry tickets to ¥2,500 for tourists and non-residents
Under the new dual pricing system effective March 1, Himeji Castle is now the most expensive castle to visit in Japan
Things to do
Kyoto’s highest hotel tax hike takes effect – all you need to know
The newly increased accommodation tax in Kyoto went into effect on March 1, making it the highest tourist tax in Japan
Things to do
5 best day hikes in and around Osaka – ranked by difficulty
Escape the city with a day hike through Kansai’s natural beauty, from easy river walks to challenging mountain peaks
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Events in Kansai
Things to do
Nijo Castle 2026 Sakura Nights, Kyoto
Immersive theatre, cherry blossom illumination and more at one of Kyoto's most impressive Unesco World Heritage Sites
Things to do
Hiokayama Park Cherry Blossom Lantern Illumination, Hyogo
Hiokayama Park is best known for its abundance of somei yoshino sakura trees – and there are around 1,000 of them spread out across the vast grounds...
Things to do
Daigoji Temple Cherry Blossom Illumination, Kyoto
Come spring, you can explore the temple's historical buildings, elegant gardens and cherry blossoms after dark, all transformed by illuminations and digital...
Things to do
Kodaiji Temple: Spring Night Special Viewing, Kyoto
This spring, the serene temple is hosting a projection mapping showcase complete with synchronised illumination and immersive 3D sound...
Things to do
Kameoka Cherry Blossom Week 2026, Kyoto
What many tourists don’t realise is that around 1,500 sakura trees bloom along the Nanatanigawa River, forming one of Tamba region’s largest cherry...