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4 stops
9 nights
148 miles
The western part of the large island of Honshû, known as Kansai (West of the Barrier) has been considered a true gem of the Japanese archipelago since feudal times. From Osaka to Toyooka, via unmissable Kyoto, each of these ancient cities is home to some of the most beautiful temples, palaces and secret gardens in the country. From the coasts of the Seto Inland Sea to those, further north, of the Sea of Japan, you will also discover astonishing agricultural plains and peaceful landscapes that seem to come straight out of ukiyo-e, those timeless woodblock prints.
01
Departure
Recommended duration : 2 nights
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The third largest city in Japan, Osaka at first appears to be a modern, lively metropolis. And since 2004, it has also established itself as a destination for art lovers, who flock to the National Museum of Art to see its collection of more than 8,000 contemporary works. Yet strolling along the city's main thoroughfares opens the door to some incredible cultural contrasts, not least the historic castle that seems to resist the glass and concrete buildings of the business district.
02
27 milesCar
Recommended duration : 2 nights
03
30 milesCar
Recommended duration : 3 nights
04
92 milesCar
Recommended duration : 2 nights