2DAYS Osaka/Nara/Kyoto ~Historical Course~

The tallest building in Japan at a towering 300m, Abeno Harukas is a symbol of urban Osaka. This multi-purpose facility features Japan's largest department store, an observation deck offering stunning views of the city, an art museum, a hotel and more, making it a can't-miss destination for any traveler.

Japan's oldest official temple, Shitennoji was founded in 593 by Prince Shotoku, who played a major role in introducing Buddhism to Japan. Set amidst a mystical Japanese garden meticulously designed to resemble the Buddhist Western Paradise, the five-storied pagoda in the inner precinct is truly a sight to behold, especially when it is illuminated after sundown.

At Edogawa in central Naramachi, feast on freshwater eel—one of the true delicacies of Japanese cuisine—in the exquisite setting of a 140-year-old, reformed former kimono shop. Other Japanese favorites like tempura, sashimi, and the local dish Asuka nabe (a type of hot pot) are available at reasonable prices. A perfect venue to enjoy lunch or dinner.

Climb this verdant 342-meter mountain on the east of Nara Park and you'll be rewarded with unobstructed views of Nara and its architectural treasures. Beautiful in all seasons, it's especially worth the trip when the cherry blossoms bloom in spring, or in January when the mountain is set ablaze in a breathtaking festival.

A mighty fortress of the kingdom of Yamato during Japan's Edo Period, Koriyama Castle was destroyed in the Meiji peiod after the fall of military rule. Still, the walls, trenches, and moats of this once-mighty castle have been preserved as a remarkable site of culture and natural wonder. The stone walls are particularly remarkable, having been built using Buddhist engravings and gravestones. Visit in spring to admire the cherry blossoms illuminated at night amidst the striking castle backdrop.

The tallest structure in central Kyoto, this landmark has an observation deck offering stunning panoramic views of the city's many historic streetscapes that change with the hour and season. Inside the tower building, you'll also find a public bathhouse, a restaurant, and a sky lounge and bar where you can take in romantic night views.

Built in 1603 by the shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu, Nijo Castle is remarkable specimen of Edo Period architecture that no history aficionado should miss. The mighty Karamon Gate (designated an Important Cultural Property) leads the Ninomaru Palace, housing the audience chamber where the 15th shogun Tokugawa Yoshinobu returned power to the emperor, and striking murals by the Kanō school. Audio guides in six languages (English, Japanese, Chinese, Korean, French, and Spanish) can be rented for those interested in learning all about the background of this historical site. The vast castle grounds are home to three exquisite gardens.

516 Kikuya-cho, Yoshiyamachi-doori, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto

Unsurpisingly, Kyoto is home to some of the world's finest traditional Japanese cuisine. Don't leave without trying yudofu, a piping hot dish of delicate, sensitive aromas and flavor made with creamy tofu and pristine water often enjoyed in colder months. From bamboo shoots in spring, to hamo (pike conger) in summer, matsutake mushrooms in autumn, and crab in winter, the subtle flavors and visual artistry of Kyoto cuisine will delight in all seasons.

Nestled in the hills on Kyoto's western outskirts, Arashiyama is home to countless temples and shrines as well as a vast and beautiful bamboo grove that symbolizes the area. Stroll the charming streetscape centered around Togetsu-kyo Bridge and stop along the way for a meal, tea, or Japanese sweets, or rent a pleasure boat and row gently down the peaceful waters of the Oi River.

Home to the tallest pagoda in Japan, the temple of Toji is a registered World Heritage site. Particularly during cherry blossom season when the grounds are illuminated at night, its five-storied pagoda amidst trees in full bloom are truly a sight to behold. Its monthly flea market ("Kobo-ichi") is popular among locals and tourists alike.

Ravaged by natural disasters through the ages, this historic place of worship—one of Nara's seven great temples—was rebuilt in the Kamakura period (1185-1333), with its three halls (main hall, Aizen hall, and Shitendo) and Treasure House holding countless treasures. Visitors will marvel at the life-size statue of the Shakyamuni Buddha, or come during the Great Tea Ceremony to experience a truly unique and time-honored rite: drinking tea from massive tea bowl.