Kyoto City Β· Uji Β· Nagaokakyo
π Similar to: Prague β ancient temples, tradition, and crowds of tourists
Kyoto is a must-see for almost all visitors. Stunning temples, gardens, and traditional streets. However, it gets extremely crowded during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons β like a theme park.
Kobe Β· Himeji Β· Awaji Island
π Similar to: Lisbon, Portugal β port city, castle, and nearby island paradise
Hyogo has Kansai's most famous onsen (Arima Onsen) with beautiful atmosphere, the stunning Himeji Castle, and Kobe's vibrant harbor. If you rent a car, Awaji Island is one of the best spots in Japan.
Otsu Β· Hikone Β· Omihachiman
π Lake Como, Italy β beautiful lake near a major cultural city
Shiga is right next to Kyoto, home to Lake Biwa β Japan's largest lake. Omihachiman is one of my personal favorite towns in all of Japan.
Tip: Omihachiman is one of my favorite towns in Japan. If you're in Kyoto, it's worth a side trip.
Nara City Β· Asuka Β· Yoshino
π Bruges, Belgium β charming day trip, but small
Nara is famous for its deer park and the great Buddha at Todai-ji. It's an easy day trip from Kyoto, but beyond the main attractions, there's less to see. If time is short, prioritize Kyoto.
Tip: Easy day trip from Kyoto. See the deer, see the Buddha, and head back β that's all you need.
Ise Β· Matsusaka Β· Toba
π Canterbury, England β famous shrine but skip unless it's your goal
Mie is famous for Matsusaka beef and the Ise Grand Shrine. However, unless you have specific plans, this prefecture is often skipped.
Tip: Famous for Matsusaka beef, but skip it unless you're visiting Ise Grand Shrine specifically.
Osaka City Β· Sakai Β· Minoh
π Chicago, USA β great food and energy, but similar to Tokyo
Osaka has USJ and great street food, but the city is similar to Tokyo. If you're already visiting Tokyo, you could skip Osaka and spend time in the more unique surrounding areas like Kyoto or Nara.
Tip: Honestly, if you're going to Tokyo already, Osaka feels very similar. Spend your time in Kyoto, Nara, or Kobe instead.
Wakayama City Β· Shirahama Β· Koyasan
π Algarve, Portugal β beautiful coast but hard to reach
Wakayama offers scenic coastal towns and spiritual Mount Koya. While beautiful, the region is harder to access and less visited by first-time tourists.
Tip: Beautiful coastal towns, but geographically inconvenient. Only go if you have extra time.