When you think of Kansai, Japan, famous world cultural heritage sites like Himeji Castle and Kiyomizu-dera Temple immediately come to mind. But do you know about the breathtakingly beautiful places in Kansai that await after you've checked off those popular attractions? This time, Gowifi has compiled a list of six must-visit hidden gems on the local’s radar in Kansai, showing you that there are still these stunning secret spots in Japan just waiting to be explored!
(This article is a collaboration between Tripresso Travel Cafe and Gowifi. All rights reserved. Unauthorized reproduction is prohibited.)
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Hidden Gems in Kansai (Kyoto)
Miyama
Miyama is an agricultural town located in the Kitawada District of Kyoto Prefecture, featuring thatched-roof houses similar to those in the Shirakawa-go Gassho Village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The neatly arranged thatched cottages line the hills, each with considerable history — the oldest dating back 220 years. Compared to Shirakawa-go, Miyama offers an even more tranquil mountain village atmosphere, which is why it's called the spiritual hometown of the Japanese.
Close to the Sea of Japan, Miyama boasts stunning scenery all year round. If you want to experience the rustic beauty of rural Japan, consider staying overnight to observe the lifestyle of the locals. Some guesthouses offer accommodation and shuttle services to and from Kyoto Station. There are also winter-only activities — those interested can check theofficial event websiteto make reservations.
- Official Website:Miyama
- Address: 601-0712 Kyoto Prefecture, Nantan City, Miyama Town, Kitadani
- Phone: +81 771-77-0660
- Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
Ine Town (Ine no Funaya)
Ine Town has long been a small fishing village that relies on the sea for its livelihood. Its self-sufficient lifestyle has preserved its traditional ecosystem to this day, and its unique boat-house architecture has recently gained fame as one of Japan’s 100 Most Beautiful Villages.
Italy has Venice, but Ine Town, surrounded by the sea, is also known as the Venice of Asia. Its crystal-clear, shimmering waters make travelers want to stay in this quiet village. The most famous feature of Ine Town is the small wooden houses built along the coast — the funaya, as they are called, have the first floor used for mooring boats and the second floor as living space. Although Ine Town is a bit tricky to reach via transportation, those planning to visit can consider staying at a local guesthouse for the night, trying local fisherman’s cuisine, or even joining the fishermen for a day of sea fishing.
- Official Website:Ine Town
- Address: 77 Taira, Ine-cho, Yosa-gun, Kyoto Prefecture 626-0423
- Phone: +81 772-32-0277
- Opening Hours: Tourist Information Office 09:00-17:00
Kurama
Located in the suburbs of Kyoto, Kurama is relatively easier to access compared to the two aforementioned spots. In summer, enjoy refreshing cold noodles served over flowing water; in autumn, take the Kurama Electric Railway to view the maple leaves; in winter, admire snowflakes gently falling on the stone steps. Kurama is a great destination in every season, always offering breathtaking views no matter when you visit.
Aside from the famous nagashi somen (flowing noodles), if you'd rather avoid long queues, you can also visit nearby restaurants to experience kawadoko cuisine. Kawadoko dining typically offers traditional Japanese kaiseki meals, served alongside the cool stream of water that gently flows beneath your feet. The open-air setting allows you to breathe in the serene greenery while a light breeze drifts through each seating area, creating a truly refreshing atmosphere.
- Official Website:Kibune
- Address: 601-1112 Kyoto Prefecture, Kyoto, Sakyo Ward, Kurama Kibunecho, 180
- Phone: +81 75-741-2016
- Opening Hours: 09:00-17:00
Hidden Gems of Kansai (Shiga)
Lake Biwa (びわこ)
Japan’s largest lake, Lake Biwa (Biwako), lies adjacent to Kyoto and covers about one-sixth of Shiga Prefecture. It is one of the most important sources of water for both Kyoto and Osaka. Because Lake Biwa is not connected to any other rivers, its enclosed nature has created habitats suitable for several endemic species. Located in Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture, just to the right of Kyoto, the lake can be reached in as little as 10 minutes by JR train, making it an excellent choice for a day trip from the city.
When visiting Lake Biwa, you can admire the iconic torii gates standing in the water, take a cable car up to Lake Biwa Valley for breathtaking panoramic views of the lake—where it even transforms into a ski resort in winter—and then head to the historic Hiei-zan Enryaku-ji Temple for a spiritual experience. If you're lucky, you might also catch one of the Lake Country’s Three Great Festivals, the Otsu Festival. Modeled after Kyoto’s Gion Matsuri, the Otsu Festival features elaborate yamaboko floats adorned with intricate fabrics parading through the streets, filling the festive air with an infectious celebratory spirit.
- Official Website:Shiga Prefecture
- Address: 520-1122 Shiga Prefecture, Takashima City, Ugawa
- Phone: +81 740-36-1555
- Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
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Hidden Gems of Kansai (Hyogo)
Kinosaki Onsen (きのさきおんせん)
Located in northern Hyogo Prefecture in Japan’s Kansai region, Kinosaki Onsen is a historic hot spring town with a history of over 1,300 years. Thanks to its many unique springs and traditional charm, it frequently ranks high in Japanese hot spring rankings and remains a beloved resort destination for locals.
The Kinosaki Onsen area features a charming hot spring town where you can find the famous Seven Public Baths (Nanayu). Each of the seven baths has its own distinct characteristics and mineral content, but most are primarily sodium-calcium chloride springs—the second most common type in Japan. The minerals adhere to your skin during your soak, providing excellent heat retention, which is why these baths are also known as "netsu no yu" (hot springs of warmth).
- Official Website:Kinosaki Onsen
- Address: 669-6101 Hyogo Prefecture, Toyooka City, Kinosakicho, Yumoto, 357-1
- Phone: +81 796-32-3663
- Opening Hours: 09:00-17:00
Taketomi Castle Ruins – The Castle in the Sky
Takeda Castle Ruins is said to have been built by the Sengoku-period samurai Yamana Toyokuni, who utilized the entire mountain as the foundation of the castle. The construction was completed around the year 1443. Because the stone walls completely envelop the mountain, from a distance it resembles a crouching tiger — hence its nickname, the Tiger-Crouching Castle.
Located high in the mountains of Hyogo Prefecture, Takeda Castle Ruins is one of the must-visit destinations for every Japanese person in their lifetime. Why is it called the “Castle in the Sky”? During autumn and winter mornings, clouds and mist often rise among the mountains, and the castle, shrouded in these clouds, appears to float above the sky. Its ancient, layered stone walls are fully visible. Due to its historical and cultural value, it has been listed as one of Japan’s Top 100 Castles and is also known as the “Machu Picchu of Japan.”
- Official Website:Takeda Castle Ruins
- Address: 169 Takeda Kojōyama, Wakasa, Asago City, Hyogo 669-5252
- Phone: +81 79-672-4003
- Admission: Adults/Children 500 yen / Free
- Opening Hours: Vary by season, please check the official website
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Japan, with its long and narrow geography and numerous mountains and lakes, features many landscapes that resemble hidden fairylands. These spots are gradually becoming known to more people thanks to the internet. Although many of these hidden gems aren’t as easily accessible as Kyoto or Osaka, the stunning views you’ll see after a long journey will definitely be worth the effort. If you hope to see more unique and beautiful sides of Japan, be sure to add these spots to your future travel wish list.
Original Source:Recommended Spots in Kansai, Japan | Discover 6 Must-Visit Hidden Gems in Kansai — Check Out the Insider’s List of Favorites！