5 Major Metropolitan Areas of Japan

1. Tokyo

2. Osaka

Osaka, Japan's second-largest metropolitan area, is a bustling city that holds the key to western Japan's economic and commercial activities. The locals are renowned for their amiable and sociable nature, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

The cityscape is adorned with striking modern architecture, exemplified by the iconic Umeda Sky Building and the historically significant Osaka Castle. Not forgetting the spectacular amusement park for thrill seekers - Universal Studios Japan.

Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is a vibrant and dynamic city that holds the essence of the country. Known as the heart of Japan, it seamlessly blends the old with the new, showcasing a mix of traditional Japanese culture and advanced technology.

The Tokyo Metropolitan Area, which encompasses Tokyo City and the surrounding prefectures, including Kanagawa, Chiba, and Saitama, is a thriving and influential region on a global scale.

Visitors to Tokyo can explore a variety of attractions, ranging from historic temples and shrines such as Senso-ji and Meiji Shrine to modern landmarks like Tokyo Tower and the Tokyo Skytree.

Moreover, the city is renowned for its diverse shopping options, tantalizing cuisine, and endless entertainment opportunities. Tokyo truly offers an unforgettable experience that captures the spirit of both past and present. It is also the best opportunity for you to get up close to the view of Mount Fuji while you are here in Tokyo.

3. Kobe

4. Kyoto

Often hailed as the cultural capital of Japan, Kyoto is highly acclaimed for its deep-rooted history, captivating traditional architecture, and abundance of temples, shrines, and gardens.

It proudly boasts several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the iconic Golden Pavilion known as Kinkaku-ji, the elegant Silver Pavilion called Ginkaku-ji, and the mesmerizing Fushimi Inari Taisha adorned with thousands of vibrant red torii gates.

Kobe is a stunning coastal city located in the Kansai region, nestled between Osaka and Kyoto. This charming city is renowned for its breathtaking harbor and the captivating vistas of Mount Rokko.

One of the main highlights of Kobe is its delectable Kobe beef, which is a highly prized and exceptional variety of Wagyu beef. For those who wish to indulge in this culinary delight, there is an abundance of upscale restaurants scattered throughout the city.

Additionally, Kobe boasts the captivating Meriken Park, offering a range of waterfront attractions such as the iconic Kobe Port Tower and the Maritime Museum. Another fascinating area worth exploring is the Kitano district, where beautifully preserved Western-style houses from the Meiji era can be found.

5. Nara

Nara is a historic city located in the Kansai region, just a short distance from both Osaka and Kyoto. It is known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. The city is famous for its deer population in Nara Park, where visitors can interact with and feed the friendly Sika deer.

Nara Park is also home to several impressive temples and shrines, including Todai-ji, which houses a giant bronze Buddha statue. Nara was Japan's capital before Kyoto and played a pivotal role in shaping Japanese culture and Buddhism.

Many of its temples and shrines are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as Kasuga Taisha with its lantern-lined paths. Nara's well-preserved traditional streets, like Naramachi, offer a glimpse into Japan's past with old merchant houses and craft shops.

These five metropolitan areas collectively showcase the diversity and dynamism of Japan, from Tokyo's modernity and Osaka's lively atmosphere to Kobe's coastal beauty, Kyoto's historical treasures and Nara's cultural and historical significance, makes it an essential addition to any exploration of the metropolitan areas in western Japan. Optimize your trip between these areas with connected domestic flights or onboard their bullet trains.

Visitors to the Osaka-Kobe-Kyoto-Nara region can experience a diverse range of cultural, historical, and natural attractions within a relatively short distance of each other. Each city has its own unique charm and attractions, making them must-visit destinations for travelers to Japan.

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Key places to visit in Tokyo

Key places to visit in Kansai Osaka

One of the city's most famed areas is the historic Gion district, renowned for its geisha culture and traditional tea houses. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the captivating ambiance of Japan's past and indulge in the beauty of traditional Japanese arts and crafts.

The Dotonbori district stands out as a vibrant entertainment hub, with its neon lights illuminating the lively streets lined with an assortment of restaurants and theaters. Culinary enthusiasts flock to Osaka for its exceptional street food scene, offering delectable treats like takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes).

Osaka truly encapsulates the essence of Japanese culture through its combination of friendly locals, captivating architecture, and mouthwatering cuisine.

Oshino Hakkai comprises eight picturesque ponds located within the quaint village of Oshino, nestled amidst the Fuji Five Lake region.

Situated between Lake Kawaguchiko and Lake Yamanakako, this serene locale once occupied the space of a sixth lake that gradually dried out centuries ago.

These eight ponds derive their crystal-clear waters from the snowmelt cascading down the slopes of the nearby Mount Fuji. This natural filtration process, which takes over 80 years as the water permeates through porous layers of volcanic lava, results in water of exceptional purity, held in high esteem by the local community. 

Adjacent to a particular pond, visitors have the unique opportunity to savor the refreshing water directly from its natural source. These ponds boast impressive depths and are home to captivating freshwater flora and sizable aquatic inhabitants.