Regional Rail Pass for Kansai & West Japan

Osaka, the largest city in Kansai and the third-largest city in Japan, is known for its high-energy night life and indulgent street food culture. Okonomiyaki and Takoyaki are two delicious staple foods of Osaka that can be enjoyed practically anywhere. For those looking for a day full of fun, Universal Studios Japan resides in the area around Osaka and is a great destination for families and groups of friends alike.

Mentioning Kobe surely generates the image of luxurious, perfectly marbled beef, which is undoubtedly a must-have culinary experience to be had when visiting. But the luxurious feel of Kobe doesn't end with its gastronomy. The city as a whole is noted for its elegant, western-influenced architecture and design that is still distinctly Japanese. Not far from Kobe, Kinosaki Onsen is the ultimate destination for relaxing, Awaji Island offers beautiful nature and one-of-a-kind attractions, and Himeji is home to the most iconic castle in all of Japan!

Kyoto and Nara, are two popular destinations for experiencing traditional and historic Japan. Kyoto is known for its abundance of well-preserved temples and shrines that blend seamlessly with an elegant and sophisticated modern backdrop. Here, a walk up the hill to see Kyomizudera and the prominent shopping area around it is a popular activity, often followed immediately by a leisurely time at one of the many stylish and lax cafes to enjoy around the city.

Nara is likely very well-known for its famous deer park, where deer roam freely and often take food directly from visitors, bowing to them afterwards. An activity surely to be experienced only in Japan. But Nara offers a rich gastronomic culture as well, as it is home to many renowned sake breweries and is even said to be the birthplace of the famous beverage. 

As the name suggests, other destinations throughout the Kansai Area are accessible with this rail pass, either via train or bus. Okayama and Wakayama are known as more rural prefectures within Kansai that offer unique sights and scenery. Okayama is also home to a number of historic sights like Kyoto is, including Kibitsu Shrine and the easily-recognizable Okayama Castle.  This area is especially easily accessible as the Sanyo Shinkansen can be ridden with the Kansai Wide Area Pass. 

Wakayama also boasts its own famous historic castle in the form of Wakayama Castle, but is also well-regarded for water sports as it sits in an area right by the ocean. People from all over Japan and the world travel here to engage in activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and diving. The white, sandy beaches make this an area worthy of travel and is a short trip via rail from other major spots in Kansai. 

Hiroshima as a city occupies a tragic yet historically-significant place in the minds of many. As the site of the first ever atomic attack at the end of World War II, a visit to Hiroshima is worthwhile to many to commemorate the events. Into the modern day, Hiroshima serves as a symbol of peace and progress as well as a time capsule for Japan's history going back even centuries. Perhaps Hiroshima's most iconic motif, the floating torii gate of Miyajima is a national treasure, and the shrine itself, dubbed Itsukushima and also existing out on the water, sees its origins all the way back to the 6th century. 

The greater Hiroshima area also offers great spots. The Miyoshi Winery offers amazing views of the surrounding nature and vineyards to be enjoyed with high quality, domestically created wines. Not far away, the Serakogen Gardens are like a wonderland during the warmer months, with gardens centered around sunflowers, tulips, and roses available for viewing depending on the time of the season. 

Head out towards the Japan Sea Coast to see the prefecture of Tottori! This is the least populated prefecture in all of Japan, but it is that very fact that makes it ripe for exploration! Tottori is home to one of Japan's most distinct scenes, with formidable sand dunes rolling alongside the crystal blue beach. During winter, the unique view of stark white snow and gold sand. Nearby, the Tottori Sand Art Museum is a worthwhile visit to see the sands of the dunes as an art medium! 

The next prefecture over going west is Shimane, rich in nature and aesthetics! The Adachi Art Museum is considered one of the best museums in all of Japan, built around a pristine Japanese garden and home to a permanent collection of works by 20th century artist Yokoyama Taikan! Head more into Shimane's capital of Matsue and step into history with its iconic castle and samurai village, where warriors of the past would reside. 

While these two prefectures are technically located on two separate islands of Japan, they serve as the gateways to both, bridging Honshu and Kyushu. Yamaguchi was listed in 2024 as an essential destination by the New York Times, dubbing it "the Kyoto of the West" due to its numerous historic shrines and temples. Yamaguchi is also rich in nature-centric activities, including some of Japan's most ecologically interesting caves! Both Akiyoshido and Kagekiyodo offer glimpses into Japan's natural and feudal history!

Fukuoka is the most populated prefecture on Kyushu and is home to a population that takes pride in its culture. The capital city of the same name is wonderfully walkable and home to some of the country's most notable spiritual sites, with the Hakata district home to many storied shrines and temples. Many will also know Hakata for its amazing food culture, with its famous Tonkotsu Ramen and yatai food stalls being staples of the city's identity.