One of the most iconic tourist regions in Japan is Kansai, where the cities of Osaka and Kyoto are located. Less than an hour apart by train, the two cities offer both ultramodern and historical sights dating from the time of the samurai. With a combined population of  4 million, they are crammed with temples and shrines, scenic vistas, steel-and-glass skyscrapers and world-class dining experiences.
 

From the highest point in Osaka, the top of Osaka Castle, a 360° view of the attractive skyline can be seen.

The contrast of the moat and walls of Osaka Castle and the modern high-rises, and the reflection of the castle in the glass, is a striking image. 

An efficient network of railways and roads connects the major cities of Osaka, Kyoto and Kobe to the popular attractions of Nara and the onsen hotsprings towns.
 

While appearing to be a concrete jungle, Osaka has a large number of public parks which have strolling paths, botanical gardens, Zen gardens, lotus ponds and protected areas of original forest.
 

The Japan Broadcasting Corporation headquarters lies beside the NHK Osaka Hall, a multipurpose events hall for concerts, recordings and cultural events. Nearby is the Osaka Museum of History.

Osaka is a city of distinct and atmospheric neighborhoods, the best-known being Dotonbori entertainment district, Tenma with a range of shrines and local bars, and Shinsekei with its retro vibe.
 

Osaka-ko is a bayside neighborhood with waterfront views, a ferry to Universal Studios, and the future site of Osaka World Expo 2025.

At the Osaka-ko port area, an impressive aquarium displays 8 floors of tanks introducing various forms of life around the Pacific Rim. Nearby are the Tempozan market and the giant Ferris wheel.
 

The major attraction is Osaka Castle, one of Japan's most famous landmarks. It houses a museum and is surrounded by citadels, gates, turrets, moats and gardens.
 

Shitennoji temple, Japan's oldest, has been rebuilt several times. It consists of an inner temple complex, a treasury, a garden and a cluster of smaller shrines.

Posters advertising attractions and events take advantage of Japan's unique historical sights, cinema and Manga artistry.

On the grounds of Shitonnoji Temple there is a monthly flea market with a range of artisanal delicacies, hand-crafted items and second-hand treasures.
 

Japanese art consists of a range of media from pottery, to silk paintings, calligraphy, origami and bonsai. The best known is the ukio-e paintings and woodblock prints associated with kabuki theater.

A variety of dining options are available, but a classic experience is the Bento Box its with attractively presented sushi and tempura options.

A complex system of traditions, rituals, and social behavior in Japan reflects core values of harmony, interdependence, respect, politeness and formality.
 

One of Kyoto's 17 UNESCO heritage "historic monuments of ancient Kyoto," the Kinkaku-ji Temple of the Golden Pavilion is set among ponds and trails of a strolling garden.

On the grounds of the Sanjusangen-do Temple are ponds, gardens, and shrines. Near the site are Kyoto National Museum and Toyokuni Shrine.
 

In the world's longest wooden building, the hall of the Sanjusangen-do Temple, dating to 1266, houses statues of 28 guardian deities, and one thousand life-size statues of the Thousand Armed Kannon.
 

The Nijo-Jo castle consists of two palaces, various support buildings and several gardens. The complex is remarkable for displaying the reception halls and living chambers of the Tokugawa shōguns.
 

Bonshō are large bells found at Buddhist temples throughout Japan used to summon monks to prayer and to demarcate periods of time. They are struck with a suspended beam.
 

The decorations  at Nijo Palace include elaborate carvings and lavish quantities of gold leaf, meant to impress visitors with the power and wealth of the shōguns.