◆◆ “Kansai, the Essence of Japan,” an e-mail newsletter
delivered by the Organization of Kansai Unity Vol.10 (March 26, 2010 ) ◆◆
The Organization of Kansai Unity has created the e-mail newsletter
“Kansai, the Essence of Japan” to introduce various must-see tourist attractions
of the Kansai region in Japan, delivering information such as local history, culture,
the natural environment and the latest news on shopping and entertainment.
Website: http://www.kansai-japan.net/en/
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◆Latest event information：A New Attraction at Universal Studios Japan!
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“Space Fantasy - The Ride” debuts on March 19
The magnificence of cosmic space, with the Earth, planets and stars, is replicated
in a giant studio using the latest movie and image technologies. Your Solar Shuttle
speeds over a 585-meter flight course.
http://www.usj.co.jp/e/
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◆Special feature 1：Kyoto Prefecture
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◇ Hanami (Cherry-blossom Viewing) in Kyoto
From the end of March through the beginning of April, when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom
all throughout Kansai, people gather in parks in a Japanese tradition knownas "Hanami"or cherry-blossom viewing.
The banks of the Kamo-gawa River, which runs through downtown Kyoto, are
beautifully colored by the cherry blossoms.
Illumination events and other special events are held by the Kamo-gawa River,
along the banks of Lake Biwa, and at parks, temples, and shrines throughout Kyoto.
Temples and shrines host special viewings of temple treasures not normally open
to the public. Why not take advantage of some of these rare opportunities?
http://www.kyoto.travel/hanami_cherry-blossom_viewing.html
◇ Experience sushi-making at a traditional mansion facing the Takase River!
At Ganko Takasegawa Nijoen, you can experience sushi making, with instructions
from a chef (reservation is necessary). The renovation of a 380-year-old mansion,
the restaurant and its garden offer a traditional Japanese atmosphere.
http://www.gankofood.co.jp/en/
◇ KYOTO MANGA FESTA 2010 will be held soon! (March 20 to May 23)
The first manga museum in Japan, the Kyoto International Manga Museum, holds
pproximately 300,000 items, including Japanese manga, overseas comic books
and magazines. From March 20 the museum will hold KYOTO MANGA FESTA
2010, which centers on interactive events that stimulate the five senses.
http://www.kyotomm.jp/english
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◆Special feature 2：Tottori Prefecture
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◇ Mitokusan Sanbutsuji Temple and Nageiredo Hall
Built in a crevice of a precipitous cliff, Nageiredo Hall is a national treasure.
Legend has it that the Hall was built 1,300 years ago at the foot of the cliff,
then thrown all the way into the crevice of the cliff by En no Gyoja
(thought to be the founder of Shugendo), using his supernatural powers.
http://yokoso.pref.tottori.jp/dd.aspx?menuid=2859
◇ Cherry blossom spots
Many areas throughout Tottori Prefecture feature fine views of cherry blossoms.
Notably, there is a weeping cherry tree designated a natural treasure.
http://yokoso.pref.tottori.jp/dd.aspx?menuid=2866
◇ Kaike Onsen
The hot springs at Kaike Onsen gush from under the sea, which makes them very rare.
The splendor of Mt. Daisen can be seen to the south. Right in front of the onsen area is
the beautiful blue Sea of Japan and a white sand beach. Since this year marks
the 110th anniversary of Kaike Onsen, various events will be held.
http://yokoso.pref.tottori.jp/dd.aspx?menuid=2864
◇ Tottori Hanakairo-Flower Park
Located at the base of magnificent Mt. Daisen, this is one of the largest flower parks in Japan.
http://yokoso.pref.tottori.jp/dd.aspx?menuid=2867
◇Mt. Daisen
Mt. Daisen changes with the seasons. Amidst fresh greenery, you can enjoy various
activities such as climbing, cycling or canoeing.
http://yokoso.pref.tottori.jp/dd.aspx?menuid=2862
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◆Recommended accommodation：Hotel Iya Onsen (Tokushima Prefecture)
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The Hotel is located in the Iya Valley, one of Japan’s “three hidden regions.”
It takes you away from busy city life and allows you to feel the breath of nature.
The hotel is famous for its open-air hot spring located by a mountain stream.
A cable car takes you down to the open-air hot spring. The Hotel’s cuisine,
using fresh wild plants and river fish, is also well-known.
http://www.iyaonsen.co.jp/english/index.html
In the surrounding area are some rare scenic spots. At Oboke and Koboke Gorges,
you can see giant rocks and rocks of unusual shapes. There is also Kazura-bashi (vine bridge).
Made of wild plants, Kazura-bashi is regarded as one of Japan’s “three rare bridges.”
http://www.awanavi.jp/english/w-20.html (Oboke and Koboke)
http://www.awanavi.jp/english/w-25.html (Kazura-bashi)
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◆Useful Information: Kansai International Airport’s international departures area
reopened on March 15 after renovation!
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After renovation, the departures area past the embarkation counters is 1.5 times larger,
and the number of shops and facilities has increased from 29 to 41.
In the south area there are shops such as Cartier, Tiffany & Co. (new) and Coach (new).
Shops in the north area include BVLGARI, Swarovski (the first at a Japanese airport),
and a cosmetic shop offering famous brand domestic and overseas cosmetics and perfume.
In the central area are an authentic Japanese restaurant and a Japanese souvenir shop
where you can also buy home appliances. Enjoy shopping before overseas travel or
before leaving Japan for home.
You can make reservations through the website Duty Free Shop Kansai Airport.
Every time you spend 10,000 yen, you will receive a 500-yen discount ticket (some products are excluded).
https://duty-free-japan.jp/kansai/jp/ (in Japanese, Chinese, Korean, and English)
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◆Participate in our online survey about sightseeing in the Kansai region!
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An online survey is now being conducted regarding sightseeing in the Kansai region.
All survey respondents will receive a Kansai Original Goods Set.
Also, lucky winners will be chosen at random for even more prizes from those
participating in the survey.
We’ll be waiting to hear from you!
*This survey is limited to people living outside Japan.
Click Here Now! ↓
https://reg31.smp.ne.jp/regist/is?SMPFORM=pcm-sapi-bb280c7b8d634649133684050f171029
◇Survey Period: Feb. 15 to Mar. 27, 2010
(The duration has been extended. The survey ends when all prizes have been given away.)
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Issued by: The Organization of Kansai Unity
Address: 11F, Osaka International Convention Center (OICC Grand Cube Osaka)
5-3-51 Nakanoshima, Kita-ku, Osaka
Website: http://www.kansai-japan.net/en/
E-mail: info@kansai-japan.net
(Back numbers) -> http://www.kansai-japan.net/en/mailmag/ (English)
http://www.kansai-japan.net/jp/mailmag/ (Japanese)
◇What is Kansai?
The Kansai region comprises 10 prefectures: Fukui, Mie, Shiga, Kyoto, Osaka, Hyogo,
Nara, Wakayama, Tokushima, and Tottori Prefectures. Befitting one of the best tourist
destinations in Japan, Kansai is full of tourist attractions, including five UNESCO World Cultural Heritage sites.
http://www.kansai.gr.jp/place_e/kansai/index.htm
◇What is Kansai Unity?
The Organization of Kansai Unity was established on July 1, 2007, comprising 10 prefectures,
four ordinance-designated cities, and 6 economic organizations in the Kansai region.
The purpose of the organization is to help Kansai develop into an attractive and
energetic region by taking advantage of the overall strengths of the region.
