住吉大社

あべのハルカス

Abeno Harukas soars 300 meters above southern Osaka, combining a supertall skyscraper with adjoining annexes full of shops, restaurants and cultural spaces. Visit the upper floors for sweeping panoramic views of the city and feel the scale of a building that was Japan’s tallest until 2023.

スパワールド

Spa World is a lively urban spa complex where you can soak in a variety of themed baths, sweat it out in saunas, and relax in resort-like facilities. It’s an easy, fun way to experience Japanese bathing culture and recharge between sightseeing adventures.

天王寺動物園

Tennoji Zoo is a compact, century-old city zoo tucked into Tennoji Park where families can meet animals from around the world and enjoy a shady stroll. Sitting just southwest of the historic Shitennō-ji temple, it’s an easy stop to combine lively exhibits with a touch of Osaka history.

新世界

Shinsekai is Osaka’s gloriously gritty retro quarter centered on the towering Tsutenkaku — a living time capsule where early-20th-century city planning meets neon-soaked streets. Wander the narrow alleys for cheap, irresistible kushikatsu, old-school arcades and lively izakayas that feel like stepping back in time.

通天閣

Tsutenkaku rises above Shinsekai as Osaka’s retro landmark — head up to the 91‑meter observation deck for sweeping city views and a neon-lit panorama. Down below, bustling streets of kushikatsu stalls and old-school arcades offer local flavor, and the iconic Hitachi sign makes for a quintessential Osaka photo.

金閣寺

Kinkaku-ji’s gleaming Golden Pavilion, its top two floors sheathed in thin gold leaf, appears to float above a mirror-like pond — an image that defines Kyoto’s timeless beauty. Stroll the peaceful paths, soak up the Zen atmosphere, and capture seasonal moments from cherry blossoms to fiery autumn leaves reflected in the water.

伏見稲荷大社

Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto is the chief shrine dedicated to the kami Inari, set at the foot of Mount Inari. Walk through its famous vermilion torii gates and follow the mountain trails that span about 4 km — a roughly two-hour route that leads to dozens of smaller shrines and an unforgettable, atmospheric hike.

清水寺

Set on the eastern slopes of Kyoto, Kiyomizu-dera is a centuries-old Buddhist temple devoted to Jūichimen Kannon and one of the few temples that predate Heian‑kyō—now part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto UNESCO site. Wander the atmospheric precincts with pilgrims, learn about its hibutsu (hidden) Kannon image, and if you visit in winter you can witness the annual Kanji of the Year ceremony held each December 12.

嵐山

Nestled on Kyoto’s western edge, Arashiyama pairs a dramatic mountain backdrop with riverside charm and nationally protected scenic beauty. Wander the famous bamboo groves, cross the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge and visit serene temples while soaking up cherry blossoms in spring and fiery maples in autumn.

二条城

Nijō Castle in Kyoto is a sprawling flatland fortress with two concentric rings of fortifications surrounding the Ninomaru Palace, the ruins of the Honmaru Palace, and several gardens. Stroll the extensive grounds to explore the palatial spaces and ruins, admire seasonal garden views, and feel layers of Japan’s feudal history come alive.

祇園

Gion is Kyoto’s atmospheric geisha quarter beside Yasaka Shrine, born in the Sengoku era and famed for its wooden machiya, narrow lanes and elegant teahouses. Stroll at dusk to glimpse maiko in kimono, step into centuries of refined entertainment, or visit during the lively Gion Matsuri for an unforgettable taste of traditional Japan.