8 Days Exploring Kyoto and Kansai Region Itinerary

Begin your day with a visit to the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine (Fushimi Inari Taisha). Known for its thousands of red torii gates, this shrine offers picturesque hiking trails up Mount Inari.

Afterward, explore the bustling Nishiki Market, also known as 'Kyoto's Kitchen.' Sample local delicacies and shop for unique souvenirs. Have lunch at Nishiki Warai, which offers delicious okonomiyaki.

In the evening, visit Gion Corner to experience traditional Japanese performing arts such as tea ceremony, flower arrangement, and dance. For dinner, head to Gion Nanba, known for its exquisite kaiseki cuisine.

Start your morning with a peaceful visit to Ryoan-ji Temple & Garden, famous for its rock garden. The serene atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for reflection.

Next, head to Arashiyama Park where you can explore the bamboo groves and enjoy a scenic boat ride on the Hozu River. Have lunch at Arashiyama Yoshimura, which offers stunning views of the river while you dine.

Conclude your day with a visit to Tenryu-ji Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its beautiful gardens. For dinner, try out some local flavors at Shoraian, located near Tenryu-ji.

Visit the historic Kyoto Imperial Palace (Kyoto Gosho) in the morning. The palace grounds are expansive and offer insight into Japan's imperial history.

Afterward, make your way to Sanjusangen-do Temple, home to 1,001 statues of Kannon Bodhisattva. Enjoy lunch at nearby restaurant Honke Owariya, famous for its soba noodles.

Spend your evening exploring the vibrant area around Yasaka Shrine (Gion Shrine). Dine at Isshindo Honten which offers delicious Kyoto-style sushi.

Take a short trip from Kyoto to Nara in the morning. Start by visiting Todai-ji Temple where you can see one of Japan's largest bronze Buddha statues.

Explore Nara Park where friendly deer roam freely among visitors. Have lunch at popular local spot Kamakura Pasta Nara.

Before heading back to Kyoto, visit Kasuga Taisha Shrine illuminated by hundreds of lanterns in the evening light. Return to Kyoto for dinner at restaurantMatsuzakagyu Yakiniku M.

Begin your exploration of Osaka with a visit to Osaka Castle (Osaka-jo), one of Japan’s most famous landmarks.

Head over to Dotonbori Street after visiting Osaka Castle; it's renowned for its vibrant nightlife scene as well as street food stalls offering takoyaki octopus balls or okonomiyaki savory pancakes! Have lunch here trying out these street foods.

End off by visiting Umeda Sky Building Floating Garden Observatory offering panoramic views over entire cityscape below before having dinner nearby restaurant R-Harukoma Sushi

Visit Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum learning about sake brewing process followed by tasting session.

Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum[17985] provides another opportunity learn more about sake production while enjoying tastings! Lunch can be enjoyed nearby restaurant R-Kizakura Kappa Country offering delicious meals paired perfectly brewed sakes.

{ A-Pontocho Alley[25874] } again but this time focus on different dining options available there such as R-Pontocho Robin specializing yakitori grilled chicken skewers!

{ A-Kamogawa River(Kamo River)[16056] } perfect place start final day taking leisurely walk along banks enjoying tranquil scenery surrounding area.

{ A-Sagano[16046] } located western outskirts city featuring picturesque bamboo groves scenic train rides through countryside landscapes have lunch nearby restaurant R-Saga Tofu Ine specializing tofu dishes made fresh daily using locally sourced ingredients!

{ A-Yasaka Shrine(Gion Shrine)[16040] } last stop trip offering beautiful night-time illuminations creating magical atmosphere bid farewell wonderful city! Dinner can be enjoyed nearby restaurant R-Gion Tanto serving traditional Japanese cuisine prepared using freshest seasonal ingredients available market!