Top Nature Spots in Kansai

8.4
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Kansai Region | Japan - Rated 8.4
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1

Park of the Studio "Universal" rating icon 9.9

2-chōme-1-33 Sakurajima, Konohana Ward, Osaka, 554-0031, Japan copy icon
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Popularity in Country: 1 of 428
Popularity in Category: 18 of 1227
Popularity Worldwide: 439 of 29087
Parks
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Elijah March 6, 2025

If you're planning to buy souvenirs, consider getting them at the end of your visit. I spent more than I planned at the start and had to cut back later!

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Susan February 9, 2025

I suggest arriving around 9 AM sharp. We got there exactly then and it was a game changer. We hit a few popular rides before the crowds rolled in.

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Brian February 7, 2025

Make sure to bring a portable charger for your phone. I wasn't thinking and my battery died while trying to take pics. It’s a total bummer when you can’t capture the fun!

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Thomas January 15, 2025

Don't miss the night parade! It was magical, but I think people start lining up at least an hour beforehand for a good spot.

2

Osaka Castle Park rating icon 9.3

Osaka Castle, 1, Osakajo, Chuo, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture, 540-0002, Japan copy icon
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Popularity in Country: 16 of 428
Popularity in Category: 72 of 1227
Popularity Worldwide: 1462 of 29087
Parks
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Daniel March 28, 2025

Don't buy souvenirs at the first shop you see near the castle. They are usually way overpriced. I found better stuff at stores further away from the castle entrance.

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Patrick March 23, 2025

Be sure to wear comfy shoes! The park is bigger than it looks, and you'll be doing a lot of walking. I regretted wearing flip-flops as my feet hurt by the end.

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Brian March 17, 2025

If you can, visit in the early morning around 8 AM. The park is much quieter then, and you can take great photos without tons of people in the background. I loved it!

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Justin November 11, 2024

I recommend downloading an offline map before you go. Cell service got a bit spotty at times and I didn’t want to get lost while exploring the park

3

The Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan rating icon 8.8

1-chōme-1-10 Kaigandōri, Minato Ward, Osaka, 552-0022, Japan copy icon
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Popularity in Country: 35 of 428
Popularity in Category: 15 of 117
Popularity Worldwide: 3261 of 29087
Aquariums & Oceanariums
4

Arashiyama rating icon 7.2

Arashiyama Genrokuzancho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-0007, Japan copy icon
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Popularity in Country: 85 of 428
Popularity in Category: 126 of 421
Popularity Worldwide: 7928 of 29087
Nature Reserves
5

Ryoan-ji rating icon 6.2

13 Ryōanji Goryōnoshitachō, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8001, Japan copy icon
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Popularity in Country: 131 of 428
Popularity in Category: 963 of 2522
Popularity Worldwide: 10621 of 29087
Architecture
Gardens
6

Kyoto Gyoen National Garden rating icon 6.1

3 Kyōtogyoen, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto, 602-0881, Japan copy icon
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Popularity in Country: 138 of 428
Popularity in Category: 94 of 247
Popularity Worldwide: 11134 of 29087
Gardens
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Jill January 12, 2025

Don't forget your camera! The cherry blossoms in Spring are absolutely stunning, but even in other seasons, the scenery is so photogenic, so make sure to capture those moments.

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William December 13, 2024

You can bring a picnic! There are lovely spots to relax and eat. I saw so many people enjoying their meals while taking in the beautiful surroundings, and it saved me some money too.

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Elijah October 26, 2024

I recommend visiting Kyoto Gyoen early in the morning around 8 am. It’s way less crowded, and you'll really enjoy the peace and quiet before the crowds roll in

7

Tennoji Zoo rating icon 6

Tennoji Zoo, 1-108 Chausuyamachō, Tennoji Ward, Osaka, 543-0063, Japan copy icon
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Popularity in Country: 144 of 428
Popularity in Category: 110 of 264
Popularity Worldwide: 11570 of 29087
Zoos & Sanctuaries
8

Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama rating icon 6

Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama, 61 Arashiyama Nakaoshitachō, Nishikyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-0004, Japan copy icon
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Popularity in Country: 142 of 428
Popularity in Category: 107 of 264
Popularity Worldwide: 11432 of 29087
Zoos & Sanctuaries
9

Umekoji Park rating icon 6

Umekoji Park, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan copy icon
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Popularity in Country: 140 of 428
Popularity in Category: 500 of 1227
Popularity Worldwide: 11431 of 29087
Parks
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Lucas February 7, 2025

I think visiting during cherry blossom season is a must. The scenery is stunning, but prepare for crowds—I’d suggest going during the week if you can.

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Jack December 5, 2024

Don’t miss the Kyoto Railway Museum, especially if you’re into trains! It’s not overly pricey and has lots of cool stuff to see.

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Elizabeth November 26, 2024

Check out the free exhibits at the Kyoto Aquarium next door if you have time. It’s not just for kids; I had a great time there!

10

Sanzen-in Temple rating icon 5.7

540 Ōhararaikōinchō, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 601-1242, Japan copy icon
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Popularity in Country: 155 of 428
Popularity in Category: 1054 of 2522
Popularity Worldwide: 12616 of 29087
Architecture
Gardens
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Robert March 3, 2025

Don't miss the moss garden; it's stunning. I think it’s one of the highlights and deserves a good amount of your time to really soak it all in.

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Elizabeth December 18, 2024

Beware of the entrance fee if you're on a budget. It’s worth it for the experience, but I suggest checking for discounts or combined tickets if you plan to visit other nearby temples.

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Benjamin December 3, 2024

Check the weather before your visit! The gardens are best enjoyed when it’s not too sunny or rainy so aim for a cloudy day for the best lighting and atmosphere.

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Betty November 28, 2024

If you can, try to arrive around 8:00 AM... The tranquility in the gardens is magical early in the morning, and you'll avoid the crowds and get some great photos

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