5 Kansai adventures to try this sutumn in Japan

Summer in Japan is notorious for sweltering days and humid nights. This makes any activity outside of sitting at home blasting airconditioning a sweat-soaked affair. While it seems to go on forever, it’s finally October, so we’ve officially transitioned into cooler weather.

It’s time to exchange our flip-flops for hiking boots and bid the beach farewell. Read on to learn about our top five recommendations for nature-themed autumn adventures in Kansai. Mount Rokko looms over the entire city. Its grassy slopes and glades are home to various activities, from wine tasting to botanical gardens. However, these are second place to the hiking on offer. While a few peaks are scattered along the mountain range, the summit offers a panoramic view of Kansai, from Wakayama to Kobe.

The hike to the top takes at least five hours. When making your descent, we recommend continuing down the other side of the mountain as you’ll find yourself in Arima Onsen (hot spring) after only an hour of downhill walking. This picturesque mountain onsen town was perfect for washing the sweat and aches of the hike away before catching your train home.