With warmer temperature and slightly longer days, spring is a good time for weekend excursions. Head west to experience Japan’s spiritual and cultural capital of Kyoto and Nara, and the raucous nightlife of Osaka!
Kyoto : The old imperial capital and cultural heart of Japan
Kyoto is the former capital city of Japan and world-famous for its refined culture, dining, and charm personifying rural Japan. Temples and shrines such as Kiyomizudera Temple and Kinkakuji Temple draw lots of attention from visitors, as do the bamboo groves of nearby Arashiyama. Stay in a traditional ryokan (Japanese inn), take a dip in a rejuvenating onsen (hot spring), and enjoy the seasonal changes of cherry blossoms. Kyoto's magic is only a short bullet train ride from Tokyo.
Nara : Pilgrimage routes, ancient temples, cherry blossoms and deer in Japan’s first permanent capital
This political and religious heart of ancient Japan is easily accessed from Osaka and Kyoto and has shrines and temples that are among Japan's oldest. Many of these sites have cultivated flower gardens that enhance their surroundings. Nara Park is home to the famously tame deer wandering freely, and adjacent Todaiji Temple houses the world's largest bronze Buddha statue. Important pilgrimage routes run through the Mt. Yoshino area, a World Heritage site and stunning cherry blossom spot in the spring.
Osaka : Bright, gaudy and playful – Osaka provides ample amusement with little pretension.
Osaka is a relaxed city best known for its food, fun and nightlife. It is only a short shinkansen (bullet train) ride from Tokyo, but has a very different personality to Japan's capital city. Hop off the bullet train into an area of exciting nightlife, delicious food and friendly locals. Osaka also has a historical side, the highlight of which is Osaka Castle. The castle is a great place to discover more about Japanese history and to wander the beautiful grounds, especially during cherry blossom season in spring.
