The Soul of Japan – Kansai Region Short Trips

Independent Suggested Itinerary – 4 days – From $917 pp*

*twin share, all prices are subject to availability, weekend and seasonal surcharges may apply 

PACKAGE INCLUDES 

• Kansai Wide Area Pass
• 1 night at ANA Crown Plaza Kobe
• 1 night at Shiraraso Grand Hotel or Kisyu Shirahama Onsen Murasaki, Shirahama 
• 1 night at Fujiya Ryokan or Kaawayu Midoriya, Kawaya Onsen
• 3 breakfasts, 2 dinners

DAY1: KOBE

Make your way to the port town of Kobe and explore some of the fascinating sights, sample the delicious food and mingle with the locals. Overnight in Kobe city.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Kobe City
Kobe has become one of Japan’s most attractive and cosmopolitan cities, with plenty of high-quality restaurants and cafes lining the bustling streets. Highlights are Kitano-cho, Nankinmachi Chinatown and, after dark, the bustling nightlife districts around Sannomiya Station.

Nada Sake
The Nada district has long been famed for producing Japan’s best sake. The Hyogo prefecture has some of the highest quality rice and water, two of the cornerstones for creating excellent sake. 

Kobe Beef
Tender and juicy, Kobe beef is a prized delicacy and one of the finest variants of beef in the world. Make sure to dine at a teppanyaki establishment, regarded as one of the best ways to enjoy the beef.

DAY 2: KOBE – WAKAYAMA – SHI RAHAMA (B, D)

Travel south to Wakayama before heading to the sunny, coastal town of Shirahama. Overnight at Shirahama.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Wakayama Castle
Sitting at the mouth of the Kii River, Wakayama Castle is an excellent example of ancient Japanese architecture. Sitting high above the township, it also provides a great view of the local area!

Momijidani Garden
Escape the hustle and bustle of the big city and explore Wakayama Castle’s garden complex, Momijidani. The vibrant autumn colours are particularly beautiful, from rich reds and classic greens!

Shirahama
This resort town is located on the south coast of Japan’s Wakayama prefecture, known for its beach, hot springs, Yanagibashi Ashi (foot bath) and Engetsu-to Island (famous sunset spot).

DAY 3: SHIRAHAMA – KUMANO KODO – KAWAYU ONSEN (B, D)

Explore a section of the ancient pilgrimage trail, the Kumano Koda. Roughly a 7km walk, your destination is the stunning Kumano Hongu Taisha Grand Shrine. Overnight in Kawayu onsen area.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Kumano Hongu Taisha Grand Shrine
A long stone staircase, lined by monolithic cypress and cedar trees, leads to the sacred grounds of the Kumano Hongu Taisha. It is one of the Kumano Sanzan, three grand shrines of Kumano.

DAY 4: KII-KATSUURA – OSAKA (B)

Spend the morning exploring the seaside town of Kii-Katsuura or head back to the Kumano Koda trail to further explore the fascinating shrines and temples such as Seiganto-ji.

Nachi Falls & Seiganto-ji temple
Part of a large religious complex, Nachi Taisha Shrine exemplifies the harmonious fusion of Shintoism and Buddhism.
A highlight of the area is the picturesque three storied pagoda of Seiganto-ji temple, which overlooks Nachi Falls.

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