Want to experience Japan without rushing from place to place? Kansai is one of the best regions to do exactly that. In a single week, you can move between lively cities, historic temples, and quiet mountain areas, all with short travel times. This 7-day Kansai itinerary balances food, culture, nature, and rest, so your trip stays smooth and enjoyable.

Day 1

Start in Osaka, known for its food culture and lively atmosphere. Walk through Dotonbori, where neon lights reflect on the canal and street food stalls line the streets. Takoyaki and okonomiyaki are easy to find here.
Later, visit Osaka Castle and take time to walk in the surrounding park. End the day at Umeda Sky Building for sunset views over the city.

Day 2

Spend the morning at Kuromon Ichiba Market to try local snacks and fresh food. Then head to Sumiyoshi Taisha, one of Japan’s oldest Shinto shrines.
Finish the day in America-mura, a creative district filled with vintage shops, murals, and cafés.

Day 3 – Kyoto: temples and classic sights

Move to Kyoto early in the morning.

Visit Kinkaku-ji, then head to Ryoan-ji to see its famous rock garden.
In the afternoon, explore Arashiyama, walk through the Bamboo Grove, and cross Togetsukyo Bridge.
End the day wandering through Gion.

Day 4 – Kyoto: shrines and quieter streets

Start early at Fushimi Inari Taisha and walk part of the torii gate path.
Head toward Higashiyama for a slow walk through traditional streets.
Visit Kiyomizu-dera or Nanzen-ji depending on your energy.
Evening free for dinner along the Kamogawa River.

Day 5 – Kyoto: local Kyoto or day trip

Use this day to slow down.

Option 1: Stay in Kyoto
Visit lesser-known temples, explore neighborhoods like Kurama or Ohara, or enjoy cafés and small shops.

Option 2: Nara day trip
Visit Todai-ji, Nara Park, and Kasuga Taisha.
Easy round trip from Kyoto.

Day 6 – Mount Koya (optional overnight)

This day is optional and depends on your travel style.

If you go to Mount Koya
Walk through Okunoin Cemetery
Visit Kongobu-ji
Stay overnight in a temple lodging and attend morning prayers

If you skip Mount Koya
Stay in Kyoto or Osaka for a slower day or shopping.

Day 7 – Kobe (optional, highly recommended)

Kobe is a great way to end the trip with a slower, more open atmosphere.

Walk around Kobe Harborland and the waterfront.
Take the ropeway up Mount Rokko for views over the city and sea.
Enjoy a relaxed meal, or try Kobe beef if it fits your budget.

Easy access from Osaka or Kyoto.

Start Kyoto days early
Mount Koya works best as an overnight stay
(Digital) Icoca card keeps transport simple