Japan Kansai

It is a city steeped in history and tradition.
Having served as Japan's capital for over a thousand years, Kyoto remains a repository of cultural wealth and architectural wonders. From the blossoming cherry trees in spring to the breathtaking autumn foliage, the city radiates charm in every season. The harmonious blend of tradition and innovation offers a multifaceted experience for visitors seeking to enjoy Japan's wonderful heritage. 

Nara is the capital city of Nara Prefecture located in the Kansai region of Japan. Eight temples, shrines and ruins in Nara remain: specifically Tōdai-ji, Saidai-ji, Kofuku-ji, Kasuga Shrine, Gango-ji, Yakushi-ji, Toshodai-ji, and the Heijo Palace, together with Kasugayama Primeval Forest, collectively form "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara", a UNESCO World Heritage Site. According to the legendary history of Kasuga Shrine, a mythological god Takemikazuchi arrived in Nara on a white deer to guard the newly built capital of Heijo-kyo. Since then the deer have been regarded as heavenly animals, protecting the city and the country.

Kobe is the sixth-largest city in Japan and is the capital city of Hyogo Prefecture. It is located on the southern side of the main island of Honshu, on the north shore of Osaka Bay and about 30 km (19 mi) west of Osaka. The earliest written records regarding the region come from the Nihon Shoki, which describes the founding of the Ikuta Shrine by Empress Jingu in AD 201. For most of its history, the area was never a single political entity, even during the Tokugawa Period, when the port was controlled directly by the Tokugawa Shogunate. Kobe did not exist in its current form until its founding in 1889.

The city’s mix of friendly locals, vibrant markets, cutting-edge technology, and rich tapestry of culture and art makes it a diverse and fascinating destination. 

Himeji has been the center of Harima Province since Nara period. After the Battle of Sekigahara, Ikeda Terumasa received a fief at Harima Province and established the Himeji Domain. He expanded the Himeji Castle and its castle town. Himeji was the capital of Himeji Prefecture (later Shikama Prefecture) since 1871, but the prefecture was merged into Hyogo Prefecture in 1876. The city of Himeji was established on April 1, 1889. After the 1923 Great Kanto earthquake, the Japanese government reportedly considered moving the nation's capital from Tokyo to Himeji.

Sakai is a city located in Osaka Prefecture, Japan on the edge of Osaka Bay at the mouth of the Yamato River. It has been one of the largest and most important seaports of Japan since the Medieval era. Sakai is known for its keyhole-shaped burial mounds, or kofun, which date from the 5th century. The largest of these, Daisen Kofun, is believed to be the grave of the Emperor Nintoku and is the largest grave in the world by area. Once known for samurai swords, Sakai is now famous for the quality of its kitchen knives. Explore the port and the town center when you're visiting.