Kansai, historically known as the Kinki Region, literally means "west of the border" that spreads all through the Kinki Plain and consists of seven prefectures: Mie, Nara, Wakayama, Kyoto, Osaka, Hyōgo, and Shiga.
It lies in the southern-central region of Japan's main island Honshu and lays claim to the earliest beginnings of Japanese civilization. It also used to be the political and cultural center of Japan for many centuries.
Though not
highly political anymore, it is still the cultural and historical heart of
Japan; often known for its food, distinct
dialect, and more casual way of life.
I had a chance to visit 3 of its beautiful cities and had
such a great time getting to know the ‘old Japan’.
KOBE
A small maritime city yet highly cosmopolitan in the
Hyogo Prefecture, west of Osaka. It’s
quieter here and less crowded with minimal amount of tourists compared to the
more popular areas of the Kansai Region.
For what to do and see, and other traveler must knows, go
to:
OSAKA
This is also a bustling town boasting of good food,
sites, and a hip an happening vibe. It’s highly active nightlife is definitely
giving Tokyo some competition!
The people from Osaka are known as the friendliest and
happiest in all of Japan. In fact, most of the highly successful comedians in
Japan are from here. Could the weather and food have something to do with this?
At present, more than its rich history and nightlife,
Osaka is known for its gastronomical delights that is evident it the countless
restaurants that offer wide selections in their menus. It’s street food has
also now made its way in staple Japanese restaurant menus outside Japan. It’s impossible not to fall in love with the
rich non-raw foods here hence the Osaka term "kuidaore" meaning: eating until you drop culture.
KYOTO
Kyoto used to seat Japan’s main government and holds the
palace of the Royal Family. It has since become one of the most popular tourist
destinations in Asia.
There are so many things to see and do in Kyoto and in
the Kansai Region in general so, take about a week or so to take in its beauty
and culture as well as sample the fantastic gastronomical offerings the South
is famous for.
Foreign travelers would be happy to know that Kyoto
locals are more fluent and confident in speaking English than Tokyoites (locals
living in Tokyo). It could be perhaps due to the amount of tourism this
prefecture it has gotten over time. So, when lost or need help, don’t hesitate
to ask the locals!
How tO gO tO KANSAI from Tokyo and back?
If coming from Tokyo, the famous ‘Shinkansen’ Bullet Train operated by JR Line is the way to go. It’s a bit pricey but you’ll get here on time and not tired like if you took the overnight bus or regular train.
From within the Kinki Chiho (Kansai Region), TRAINS are the way to go. Apart from being the quicker way, it is more affordable too.
by Bus: not ideal unless you have a lot of time as it takes 7-8 hours from Kyoto. Online reservation may not be possible and it’s not necessarily a cheaper option either.
If you are just to breeze through the different places in the Kansai Region, there are passes available to help you save money from buying different train tickets.
No comments:
Post a Comment