Danai-Christina Papanikolaou
Writer
“Designing Future Society for Our Lives” is the motto of the upcoming Expo in Osaka, showcasing the latest innovations in technology, sustainability, and cultural exchange from around the world. Starting on April 13th, 2025, Kansai is not only expecting a surge in domestic tourism but also a significant increase in international visitors as people visit to experience the Expo. This will likely make well-known tourist destinations even more crowded, especially in cities like Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara.
While the Expo may be a “once-in-a-lifetime” experience, don’t miss the opportunity to explore beyond the main attractions in Kansai. While the Expo grounds and popular tourist destinations will undoubtedly be crowded, there are still many places that remain largely unexplored.
It’s still possible to enjoy the same cities while avoiding the bustling crowds – you just need to venture a bit further. Discover local areas and hidden shops with our passionate local guides, who will share their insider knowledge and exciting tips to make your visit unforgettable!
While the Expo may be a “once-in-a-lifetime” experience, don’t miss the opportunity to explore beyond the main attractions in Kansai. While the Expo grounds and popular tourist destinations will undoubtedly be crowded, there are still many places that remain largely unexplored.
It’s still possible to enjoy the same cities while avoiding the bustling crowds – you just need to venture a bit further. Discover local areas and hidden shops with our passionate local guides, who will share their insider knowledge and exciting tips to make your visit unforgettable!
1. Osaka:
If you’re looking to explore the hidden side of Osaka, dive into Japanese traditions, and experience local culture, our guide GZO has it all. Having lived in Japan for several years, GZO has a deep passion for Japanese culture and is an artist himself. With deep knowledge of Japanese traditions, he connects with local people, promotes small businesses, and highlights the work of local artists. He will take you beyond the typical tourist spots, offering an authentic and unforgettable experience, all while exploring the city by bike. As the tour is fully customizable, he will cater the locations to your specific interests.
2. Kyoto:
Discover the aristocratic culture of Uji City with our guide, Ayumi Ikushima, certified in Japanese garden design and Ikebana! Visit a charming tea garden, where you’ll learn about traditional matcha farming methods and enjoy freshly ground matcha. Explore the rich history of Uji’s aristocratic society, which flourished during the Heian Period, and wander through the Japanese garden of a historic temple within a World Heritage Site. Our friendly and trusted guide will introduce you to a different side of Kyoto, sharing her detailed knowledge of the area.
3. Tokushima:
If you are looking to discover the nature of Kansai, take a chance to discover the beautiful Tokushima Prefecture. This tour will take you to the heart of the mountains, where vine bridges once connected mountain paths. You will explore the scenic views of Iya Valley on a Brompton Bike, enjoying a well-paced bike tour suitable for all fitness levels.
Surrounded by ever-changing landscapes that shift with the seasons, this tour will leave you longing to explore more remote locations and escape the typical tourist attractions of Japan!
Conclusion:
While the well-known spots are certainly worth a visit, Kansai has so much more to offer beyond the typical destinations. There are countless lesser-explored gems that allow you to experience Japan in a more intimate and authentic way. By connecting with local businesses and people, we hope to guide you in discovering what makes Japan truly unforgettable!
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