4 Malay Influencers explore what Japan's quaint countryside has to offer ー Follow them across Chubu, Kansai and Chugoku regions

Day 1 to 2: Relax at one of Japan’s Three Great Gardens, then switch up with the lively city vibes of Osaka.

Links to the rest of this itinerary series:

Day 3 to 4: Have fun at a world-class theme park and a ninja studio, before strolling the townscape of Gujo Hachiman
Day 5 to 6: Visit a village hidden in the mountains, then wrap up with a romantic Tunnel of Light

DAY 1: Korakuen Garden

Korakuen is a beautiful traditional Japanese garden located in Okayama City, Japan. It was built in 1700 by the local lord Ikeda Tsunamasa and is known for its peaceful and serene atmosphere. The garden covers an area of about 133,000 square meters and features a variety of scenic elements, including ponds, bridges, waterfalls, and teahouses. One of the most iconic features of the garden is the Enyo-tei Pavilion, which was built in 1743 and offers stunning views of the garden and the surrounding city. Korakuen is also home to a variety of plants and flowers, including cherry blossoms, plum trees, and azaleas, which bloom throughout the year and create a beautiful and ever-changing landscape.

Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter

Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter is a well-preserved historical district located in Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture, Japan. It is known for its beautifully preserved Edo period architecture and is a popular tourist destination in the region. The area features a network of canals, which were used to transport goods during the Edo period, and are now a picturesque backdrop for the traditional buildings and streets. The buildings are made of white-walled plaster and dark-tiled roofs, giving the area a charming and timeless ambiance.

DAY 2: Shinsaibashi & Dotonbori

Shinsaibashi & Dotonbori are two happening districts located in Osaka, Japan, known for their vibrant atmosphere, shopping, and dining experiences. Shinsaibashi is a shopping district that stretches for several blocks and is home to a variety of retail stores, department stores, and boutiques. It is a highly favored by fashion enthusiasts and avid shoppers looking for the latest trends and styles. Dotonbori, on the other hand, is a bustling entertainment district that has been a popular destination for locals and tourists alike for centuries. It is known for its iconic neon lights, including the famous Glico Running Man sign, as well as its variety of street food vendors, restaurants, and bars. Visitors can enjoy everything from traditional Osaka-style takoyaki to sushi, ramen, and more.

Abeno Harukas

Abeno Harukas is a skyscraper located in the Abeno ward of Osaka, Japan. It is the tallest building in Japan with a height of 300 meters, and has become a prominent landmark in Osaka since its completion in 2014. The top floors of Abeno Harukas are dedicated to observation decks that offer panoramic views of Osaka and surrounding areas. The observation deck on the 58th floor, called Harukas 300, lets visitors appreciate 360° stunning views of the city with its floor-to-ceiling glass windows. There is also a restaurant on the 58th floor, where visitors can enjoy a quaint meal high in the sky.

Tsutenkaku Tower Slider Experience

The Tsutenkaku Tower Slider is a unique attraction located in the Tsutenkaku Tower in Osaka, Japan. The tower itself is a popular tourist destination and long-standing symbol of the Shinsekai district, known for its nostalgic atmosphere and delicious food. The Tsutenkaku Tower Slider is a thrilling ride addition that allows visitors to slide down a spiral tube from the tower's fifth floor to its fourth floor. The ride is 40 meters long and takes approximately 12 seconds to complete, reaching speeds of up to 40 kilometers per hour.