The Kansai region has prospered as the capital of commerce in Japan since olden times. As such, Kansai is characterized by its distinct vitality and energy even today, creating a very special atmosphere that enlivens the visitor as well.

Osaka, 3 hrs. by Shinkansen super express or 1 hr. by air from Tokyo, is Japan's third-largest city and the commercial and industrial hub for western Japan. Situated at the mouth of the Yodo River emptying into Osaka Bay, Osaka has a network of canals that crisscross under its many busy streets, which have played an important role in the city's prosperity.

As a classical city, it is very proud of its being the origin of Bunraku puppet theater. The Osaka Bay area is a must for visitors as an emerging center of the trendiest in urban attractions. The March 2001 opening of Universal Studios Japan, a Hollywood based theme park, is an exciting addition to the areas many attractions.

The absolute highlight is Osaka Castle, once the largest in Japan, built in 1586 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi. The present five-storied fortress, a copy of the original, contains many historical art objects and documents related to the Toyotomi family and Osaka of the old.

Nakanoshima, on a small delta between divergent streams of the Yodo River, is the civic center. At its end lies Temmangu Shrine, dedicated to Michizane Sugawara, a noted scholar. Nearby is the Tenjinbashi Shopping Street which has long prospered by catering to worshippers and visitors to the local shrine. A walk along its shopping arcade provides a glimpse into the daily lifestyle of the local residents.

For entertainment and shopping, don't miss the Umeda and Namba districts. Umeda, centered around Umeda Sta., has a number of modern underground arcades which are always teaming with visitors and shoppers. Worthy of its reputation for 'kuidaore" (the epicurean joy of over-indulgence in the delights of the table), Osaka truly caters to the gourmet. Try popular Osaka dishes such as "yakiniku" (grilled meat), "fugu-nabe" (globefish hotpot) "kushi-katsu" (skewed deep-fried pork and onions), “sushi" and “tako-yaki" (baked dumpling containing a piece of boiled octopus), among many, many others.

Kobe, 30 min. by rail from Osaka, is a major seaport which has developed at a rapid pace since the Meiji Restoration began in 1868. A city of hills, Kobe has many narrow paths and walkways that wind up and down the Rokko foothills that form the city's backdrop. One of Japan's main ports, along with Yokohama, Kobe harbors a fascinating foreign residential enclave that is great for strolling.

Kobe Port Tower, soaring 108 m., is beautifully lit up in the evening. Across the way is Kobe Harborland, a newly emerging waterfront development. It bustles with throngs of visitors who enjoy the famed night view of this great port city well into the evening hours.

Another major attraction in western Japan is located in Himeji City. Himeji Castle is one of the most beautiful castles to be found in the nation. With its twisting paths through the castle grounds leading past alabaster-plastered walls and the original buildings-preserved as national treasures a visit here is not to be missed.

For a different unforgettable experience, stay at the monastery at the summit of Mt. Koya, a 2-hr. rail ride from Osaka. Founded in 816 by Kobo Daishi, the great exponent of the Shingon sect of Buddhism, the monastery is comprised of over 120 temples, of which 53 offer lodgings and vegetarian meals at reasonable prices. 1 million pilgrims visit the monastery annually.

The Inland Sea/Shikoku

The "Shimanami-kaido" route recently opened connecting the main islands of Honshu and Shikoku with seven magnificent bridges. The highway and bridge route over the Inland Se unfolds with fantastic views interwoven by the blue sea dotted with ships and boats of all sizes and the picturesque small islands.

The three main islands of Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu bound the Inland Sea, or Seto-Naikai. Crossing from Honshu to Shikoku islands has now become extremely easy and enjoyable thanks to the series of seven bridges, including the Seto Ohashi, Akashi-kaikyo Ohashi and Shimanami-kaido bridges. Boats and ferries also travel between the two islands via the cities of Osaka, Kobe, Hiroshima, Onomichi, and Wakayama.

The Inland Sea, blessed with superb seascapes and a mild climate, is remarkably calm, peaceful and beautiful. Over 600 islands are scattered over an area of 8,200 sq. km. Walking or cycling along the "Shimanami-kaido" route (60 km. in total length) is highly recommended if you wish to fully enjoy the scenic splendors of the Inland Sea. The "Shimanami kaido" provides an ideal sightseeing route as the seven bridges link the six smaller islands lying between Honshu and Shikoku. The richly diversified coastal scenery is an interesting kaleidoscope of the many small ports, fishing villages, salt fields, and farms found among the gentle island slopes.

The Naoshima Cultural Village on Naoshima Island in the Inland Sea can be reached in about 1 hr. 30 min. from Okayama by train, ferry and car. The "village" features a fine contemporary art museum and its architecture is a harmonious blend with the island's serene natural environment.

Shikoku Island consists of four prefectures, and each prefecture seat was at one time a castle town. The natural beauty illustrated by the picturesque Inland Sea Coast and the dynamic Pacific Ocean

Coast accentuates the tourist attractions of Shikoku Island. Access has become very easy since direct bus services began operating recently between the major cities in the Kansai region on the Honshu side and those on Shikoku.

Takamatsu, 1 hr. by train from Okayama, is the main gateway to Shikoku from Honshu, and a convenient starting point for traveling around the island. Takamatsu has many attractions worth seeing. Ritsurin Park is one of the finest traditional gardens in this area. It was laid out about 350 years ago on the site of a villa owned by the Matsudaira clan.

Matsuyama, the largest city in Shikoku, is a 3‑hr. limited express train ride from Takamatsu or a one-hour boat trip from Hiroshima or Kure. Matsuyama Castle is one of the nation's best-preserved. Also Dogo Spa, 20 min. by rail from Matsuyama, is one of the oldest in Japan.

Kochi, 3 hrs. by limited express train from Takamatsu, is the prefecture seat of the rich farming land and fisheries along Shikoku's central southern coast. Its southwestern coast is designated a national park and offers a variety of outdoor attractions from scuba diving to whale watching.

Tokushima Prefecture can be reached from the Kansai region in approximately 2 hrs. 30 min. by express bus. Its capital, the city of Tokushima is famous for its Awa-Odori dance festival held every summer. Naruto, 40 min. by train from Tokushima City, is noted for its giant whirlpools in the narrow Naruto Straits. For an exciting, closer look at these whirlpools, book a ride on a pleasure boat.

© 2002 by Japan National Tourist Organization. For more information on any of these sights, please contact JNTO at 213.623.1952 www.jnto.go.jp