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Kansai Fashion Shopping | Must-Buy Japanese Fashion Finds in Osaka & Kyoto From #FR2

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Ready to shop fashion exclusives in Kansai? From the #FR2 OSAKA in Shinsaibashi and #FR2 GOLF OSAKA to limited #FR2 KYOTO items, here's a guide to daring Japanese fashion shopping in Kansai that you won't want to miss during your Japanese adventures.

Kansai Fashion: Kansai-Inspired #FR2 Stores

Unique Japanese Streetwear in Kansai: #FR2

Hailing from the backstreets of Harajuku, Tokyo, Japanese fashion lovers may recognize a certain suspicious rabbit—a symbol of #FR2, AKA Fxxking Rabbits. Here at Japankuru we’ve featured the brand in the past, but it’s the risqué rabbit logo, unforgettable graphics, and unique style that have made #FR2 instantly recognizable. If you’re interested in Japanese street fashion, chances are you’ve come across the rather unforgettable name before. In recent years, #FR2 has become one of those brands that many international travelers make a point of adding to their trip, becoming an essential stop on Japanese streetwear shopping itineraries and a favorite on fashion shopping lists.

What makes #FR2 especially interesting, however, is how different each store feels depending on the city it’s located within. So, for our most recent shopping spree, the Japankuru team decided to leave Tokyo behind and head to the Kansai region. From the neon-soaked streets of #FR2 OSAKA and the unique fusion of streetwear and golf at #FR2 GOLF OSAKA, to the sophisticated yet trendy old-meets-new aesthetic of #FR2 KYOTO, join us as we explore a side of #FR2 only found in Kansai. 🐰📸

#FR2 OSAKA: Capturing the Spirit of the Osaka Streets

Unique Japanese Streetwear in Kansai: #FR2 OSAKA

Located in the heart of Osaka’s bustling Shinsaibashi district, #FR2 OSAKA stands out long before you step inside. While the brand’s Harajuku flagship feels like a sleek gallery, the Osaka store embraces a much more vibrant, eye-catching look.

The first thing you’re likely to notice is the massive torii gate standing at the entrance, borrowed from the traditional architecture of Japanese Shinto shrines. It’s big, bold, and impossible to miss. The striking entrance has made the storefront a popular place to stop and take photos—whether you’re a dedicated streetwear enthusiast, or just exploring the area, it’s hard not to stop and take a look. If you’re visiting Shinsaibashi, it’s a spot you won’t want to miss.

Unique Japanese Streetwear in Kansai: #FR2 OSAKA
Unique Japanese Streetwear in Kansai: #FR2 OSAKA
Unique Japanese Streetwear in Kansai: #FR2 OSAKA

At over 90 tsubo (around 300 square meters), this is actually the largest #FR2 store in Japan. Inside, alongside the signature #FR2 collection, you’ll find exclusive Osaka items that make fun souvenirs, like graphic tees featuring iconic local landmarks including Tsutenkaku Tower and Osaka Castle, reimagined (of course) through the brand’s distinctive lens. There are also some fun items that feature phrases in the Kansai dialect, for a bit of local color—ask the staff if you want to know what it says! There’s a lot to remember your time in Osaka by.

Unique Japanese Streetwear in Kansai: #FR2 OSAKA/#FR2 UME
Unique Japanese Streetwear in Kansai: #FR2 OSAKA/#FR2 UME

While the first floor focuses primarily on men’s/unisex streetwear, the second-floor focuses on the sub-brand known as #FR2 UME (#FR2梅), giving it a completely different atmosphere. Set aglow in neon pink, the space embraces a more feminine aesthetic while retaining the brand’s signature humor and street-inspired attitude.

Unique Japanese Streetwear in Kansai: #FR2 OSAKA/#FR2 UME
Unique Japanese Streetwear in Kansai: #FR2 OSAKA/#FR2 UME
Unique Japanese Streetwear in Kansai: #FR2 OSAKA/#FR2 UME

The bright pink t-shirts and coordinated sets perfectly capture this year’s trend of “Color no Kaiho” (カラーの解放), which might be translated as “Unlocking Color.” The intense pinks make a big, whimsical statement, and accessories featuring #FR2’s iconic camera-wielding rabbits add even more personality. Browse everything from everyday essentials to standout statement pieces!

#FR2 OSAKA
Shinsaibashi Printemps Building, 2-7-3 Shinsaibashisuji, Chuo-ku, Osaka
Hours: 11:00 – 22:00
Official Website | Instagram

#FR2 GOLF OSAKA: Japanese Streetwear Meets Golf

Unique Japanese Golfwear in Kansai: #FR2 GOLF OSAKA

The atmosphere at #FR2 GOLF OSAKA is far removed from that of the main Osaka location. Of course, the fact that a streetwear brand like #FR2 has even developed a golf collection might come as a surprise. But this unique concept store completely reinterprets golf through the brand’s unique perspective. It’s not just a typical golfwear shop—these functional pieces are equally appealing as everyday fashion items.

The rebellious energy of the brand’s streetwear can be found combined with the practicality and classic appeal of golf apparel at #FR2 GOLF OSAKA. The storefront almost looks like a gallery, and inside, products are displayed atop artificial turf. The monochromatic black-and-white color palette gives the space a mature atmosphere that feels more like a fashion boutique than a sports store.

Unique Japanese Golfwear in Kansai: #FR2 GOLF OSAKA
Unique Japanese Golfwear in Kansai: #FR2 GOLF OSAKA
Unique Japanese Golfwear in Kansai: #FR2 GOLF OSAKA
Unique Japanese Golfwear in Kansai: #FR2 GOLF OSAKA
Unique Japanese Golfwear in Kansai: #FR2 GOLF OSAKA

The atmosphere at #FR2 GOLF OSAKA is far removed from that of the main Osaka location. Of course, the fact that a streetwear brand like #FR2 has even developed a golf collection might come as a surprise. But this unique concept store completely reinterprets golf through the brand’s unique perspective. It’s not just a typical golfwear shop—these functional pieces are equally appealing as everyday fashion items.

One standout item is undoubtedly the Rabbit Country Club golf bag, which features a distinctive paisley pattern, and has such a cool look that even non-golfers may find themselves wanting one. But the polo shirts also left an impression, this time thanks to the clean, minimalist designs, accented with subtle rabbit logos. The practical look means they work great both on and off the course.

Accessories like the ball markers, golf balls, belts, and socks all incorporate #FR2’s characteristic sense of humor and stylish flair, including fluorescent golf balls and playful rabbit-themed accessories. The store is likely to leave you with a clear impression: golf wear can actually be cool! Even if you have no plans whatsoever to set foot on a golf course, there’s plenty here to appeal to street fashion aficionados, and fans will find a chance to discover a different side of #FR2 while in Osaka. ⛳

#FR2 GOLF OSAKA
1-12-21 Minamihorie, Nishi-ku, Osaka
Hours: 11:00 – 22:00
Official Website | Instagram

#FR2 KYOTO: Blending Kyoto Tradition & Street Culture

Unique Japanese Streetwear in Kyoto: #FR2 KYOTO
Unique Japanese Streetwear in Kyoto: #FR2 KYOTO
Unique Japanese Streetwear in Kyoto: #FR2 KYOTO

Despite being geographically close to Osaka, Kyoto couldn’t be farther in terms of mood, and the atmosphere of #FR2 KYOTO clearly reflects that difference. The first thing to catch your eye is the lanterns decorating the exterior—combined with the wooden façade, the shop really brings the traditional Kyoto architecture. Visiting the shop feels more like sightseeing than shopping.

Inside, the store has a more minimalist, classic #FR2 aesthetic, for a more modern spin on Kyoto’s refined elegance. #FR2’s streetwear DNA blends naturally into the space, resulting in a uniquely calm and sophisticated shopping experience.

Unique Japanese Streetwear in Kyoto: #FR2 KYOTO
Unique Japanese Streetwear in Kyoto: #FR2 KYOTO
Unique Japanese Streetwear in Kyoto: #FR2 KYOTO

The real highlights, however, are the Kyoto-exclusive items. You’ll find graphics inspired by Kyoto temples and the torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine, lined up alongside rabbits preparing Kyoto’s famous Uji matcha. The brand’s distinctive style gives these pieces a look you can add to your everyday wardrobe, far from the graphics of a cheesy tourist souvenir.

Unique Japanese Streetwear in Kyoto: #FR2 KYOTO

We couldn’t get one hoodie in particular out of our heads: a simple design printed with a rabbit making matcha. Despite the cute graphic, the black base gave the overall look a bit of an edge, showing off the perfect balance the store manages to strike between #FR2’s playfulness and Kyoto’s unique traditions. The store also stocks embroidered T-shirts, practical crossbody bags, caps, and other accessories, each with whimsical designs that make it fun just to browse. Even surrounded by the traditional setting of Kyoto, #FR2 never feels out of place—the way the brand adapts its streetwear aesthetic to complement Kyoto’s atmosphere is genuinely impressive. If you’re searching for a unique shopping destination during your Kyoto trip, this is one stop worth seeing. 🐰🍵

#FR2 KYOTO
503-18 Higashigawacho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto
Business Hours: 12:00 – 21:00
Official Website | Instagram

#FR2 NADESHIKO: Kyoto Through a Lavender Lens

Unique Japanese Streetwear in Kyoto: #FR2 NADESHIKO
Unique Japanese Streetwear in Kyoto: #FR2 NADESHIKO
Unique Japanese Streetwear in Kyoto: #FR2 NADESHIKO

After checking out #FR2 KYOTO store, you won’t want to miss #FR2 NADESHIKO, located just a short walk away. Opened in October 2019, this special shop is themed around purple, #FR2’s exclusive color Kyoto color. #FR2’s rabbits are there to greet you from the moment you arrive, bathed in a purple glow, and the entire space seems to bleed rich violet tones.

The purple extends to the collection inside, adding color to the apparel and accessories, miscellaneous merchandise, and covering every interior display. It’s like entering #FR2’s very own purple world, and with quite a few Kyoto-exclusive colorways (plus items available only at the Nadeshiko store), it’s perfect for collectors.

Unique Japanese Streetwear in Kyoto: #FR2 NADESHIKO
Unique Japanese Streetwear in Kyoto: #FR2 NADESHIKO
Unique Japanese Streetwear in Kyoto: #FR2 NADESHIKO

The printed t-shirts are quick to grab your attention, and with graphic tees making a comeback as a major fashion trend in recent years, the shirts at their NADESHIKO store offer the perfect place to showcase your love of #FR2’s distinctive design sense.

The brand’s funny slogans and striking graphics are given a once-over with that limited-edition Kyoto purple to create designs ready to serve as your outfit’s centerpiece. From cute rabbit graphics to #FR2’s trademark bold artwork, the store offers a diverse array of items, each blending the brand’s core identity with the appeal of this Kyoto location.

Unique Japanese Streetwear in Kyoto: #FR2 NADESHIKO
Unique Japanese Streetwear in Kyoto: #FR2 NADESHIKO
Unique Japanese Streetwear in Kyoto: #FR2 NADESHIKO

If you find yourself thinking that the bright purple items are a bit hard to pull off, you’ll be happy to see that NADESHIKO offers a wide lineup of easy-to-wear basics (socks, innerwear, hats, and other accessories) infused with the store’s unique sensibilities. You can browse the selection to find pieces that match your personal style, or just set out to find something to keep as a lasting memento of your trip to Japan. The shop has all kinds of accessories that blend practicality and #FR2 style, ranging from card cases, hair clips, and hair ties to ashtrays. Make some time to browse, and you’ll find something to forever remind you of your Kyoto adventures.

#FR2 NADESHIKO
292-22 Gioncho Kitagawa, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto
Hours: 11:00 – 20:00
Official Website | Instagram

Japanese Shopping Gems: Hunting for Rabbits Across Japan 🐰

Unique Japanese Streetwear in Kyoto: #FR2

Beyond Kyoto’s signature purple-themed NADESHIKO store, #FR2 has created several regional concept shops inspired by local culture and scenery, each with its own signature color. GETTO (月桃) in Okinawa is represented by a refreshing turquoise inspired by Okinawa’s crystal-clear ocean waters, YANAGI (柳) in Kanazawa has adopted an orange palette to reflect the nostalgic atmosphere of the historic Higashi Chaya District. Meanwhile, TSUKI (月) in Mie Prefecture draws upon Japanese myths surrounding the moon and rabbits, expressed through earthy khaki tones.

What makes #FR2 fascinating is that the brand doesn’t just randomly throw together limited-edition products for each new store. Instead, the brand reinterprets each city’s culture, history, and atmosphere through its own unique lens, building a distinct world around every location. Visiting #FR2 stores in different cities feels like experiencing entirely different brands with a distinctly playful thread running alongside the shared name.

If you’re planning a trip to Japan, check out which #FR2 locations are available in your travel destinations to put together your own “Rabbit Treasure Hunt” across the nation. It might just become one of the most memorable parts of your journey. 🐰✨

For more info and updates from Japan, check Japankuru for new articles, and don’t forget to follow us on X (Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook!

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MAP OF JAPAN

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    • HOKKAIDO

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      Hokkaido (北海道) is the northernmost of the four main islands that make up Japan. The area is famous for Sapporo Beer, plus brewing and distilling in general, along with fantastic snow festivals and breathtaking national parks. Foodies should look for Hokkaido's famous potatoes, cantaloupe, dairy products, soup curry, and miso ramen!

    • Niki, in south-west Hokkaido, is about 30 minutes from Otaru. The small town is rich with natural resources, fresh water, and clean air, making it a thriving center for fruit farms. Cherries, tomatoes, and grapes are all cultivated in the area, and thanks to a growing local wine industry, it's quickly becoming a food and wine hotspot. Together with the neighboring town of Yoichi, it's a noted area for wine tourism.

    • Niseko is about two hours from New Chitose Airport, in the western part of Hokkaido. It's one of Japan's most noted winter resort areas, and a frequent destination for international visitors. That's all because of the super high-quality powder snow, which wins the hearts of beginners and experts alike, bringing them back for repeat visits. That's not all, though, it's also a great place to enjoy Hokkaido's culinary scene and some beautiful onsen (hot springs).

    • Otaru is in western Hokkaido, about 30 minutes from Sapporo Station. The city thrived around its busy harbor in the 19th and 20th centuries thanks to active trade and fishing, and the buildings remaining from that period are still popular attractions, centered around Otaru Canal. With its history as a center of fishing, it's no surprise that the area's fresh sushi is a must-try. Otaru has over 100 sushi shops, quite a few of which are lined up on Sushiya Dori (Sushi Street).

    • SAPPORO

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      Sapporo, in the south-western part of Hokkaido, is the prefecture's political and economic capital. The local New Chitose Airport see arrivals from major cities like Tokyo and Osaka, alongside international flights. Every February, the Sapporo Snow Festival is held in Odori Park―one of the biggest events in Hokkaido. It's also a hotspot for great food, known as a culinary treasure chest, and Sapporo is a destination for ramen, grilled mutton, soup curry, and of course Hokkaido's beloved seafood.

    • Consisting of six prefectures, the Tohoku Region (東北地方) is up in the northeastern part of Japan's main island. It's the source of plenty of the nation's agriculture (which means great food), and packed with beautiful scenery. Explore the region's stunning mountains, lakes, and hot springs!

    • Akita Prefecture is on the Sea of Japan, in the northern reaches of Japan's northern Tohoku region. Akita has more officially registered important intangible culture assets than anywhere else in Japan, and to this day visitors can experience traditional culture throughout the prefecture, from the Oga Peninsula's Namahage (registered with UNESCO as a part of Japan's intangible cultural heritage), to the Tohoku top 3 Kanto Festival. Mysterious little spots like the Oyu Stone Circle Site and Ryu no Atama (Dragon's Head) are also worth a visit!

    • FUKUSHIMA

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      Fukushima Prefecture sits at the southern tip of Japan's northern Tohoku region, and is divided into three parts with their own different charms: the Coastal Area (Hama-dori), the Central Area (Naka-dori), and the Aizu Area. There's Aizu-Wakamatsu with its Edo-era history and medieval castles, Oze National Park, Kitakata ramen, and Bandai Ski Resort (with its famous powder snow). Fukushima is a beautiful place to enjoy the vivid colors and sightseeing of Japan's beloved four seasons.

    • YAMAGATA

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      Yamagata Prefecture is up against the Sea of Japan, in the southern part of the Tohoku region, and it's especially popular in winter, when travelers soak in the onsen (hot springs) and ski down snowy slopes. International skiiers are especially fond of Zao Onsen Ski Resort and Gassan Ski Resort, and in recent years visitors have been drawn to the area to see the mystical sight of local frost-covered trees. Some destinations are popular regardless of the season, like Risshakuji Temple, AKA Yamadera, Ginzan Onsen's nostalgic old-fashioned streets, and Zao's Okama Lake, all great for taking pictures. Yamagata is also the place to try Yonezawa beef, one of the top 3 varieties of wagyu beef.

    • Japan's most densely populated area, the Kanto Region (関東地方) includes 7 prefectures: Gunma, Tochigi, Ibaraki, Saitama, Tokyo, Chiba, and Kanagawa, which means it also contains the Tokyo Metropolitan Area. In modern-day Japan, Kanto is the cultural, political, and economic heartland of the country, and each prefecture offers something a little different from its neighbors.

    • Gunma Prefecture is easily accessible from Tokyo, and in addition to the area's popular natural attractions like Oze Marshland and Fukiware Falls, Gunma also has a number of popular hot springs (Kusatsu, Ikaho, Minakami, Shima)―it's even called an Onsen Kingdom. The prefecture is popular with history buffs and train lovers, thanks to spots like world heritage site Tomioka Silk Mill, the historic Megane-bashi Bridge, and the Watarase Keikoku Sightseeing Railway.

    • TOCHIGI

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      Tochigi Prefecture's capital is Utsunomiya, known for famous gyoza, and just an hour from Tokyo. The prefecture is full of nature-related sightseeing opportunities year-round, from the blooming of spring flowers to color fall foliage. Tochigi also has plenty of extremely well-known sightseeing destinations, like World Heritage Site Nikko Toshogu Shrine, Lake Chuzenji, and Ashikaga Flower Park―famous for expansive wisteria trellises. In recent years the mountain resort town of Nasu has also become a popular excursion, thanks in part to the local imperial villa. Tochigi is a beautiful place to enjoy the world around you.

    • Tokyo (東京) is Japan's busy capital, and the most populous metropolitan area in the world. While the city as a whole is quite modern, crowded with skyscrapers and bustling crowds, Tokyo also holds onto its traditional side in places like the Imperial Palace and Asakusa neighborhood. It's one of the world's top cities when it comes to culture, the arts, fashion, games, high-tech industries, transportation, and more.

    • The Chubu Region (中部地方) is located right in the center of Japan's main island, and consists of 9 prefectures: Aichi, Fukui, Gifu, Ishikawa, Nagano, Niigata, Shizuoka, Toyama, and Yamanashi. It's primarily famous for its mountains, as the region contains both Mt. Fuji and the Japanese Alps. The ski resorts in Niigata and Nagano also draw visitors from around the world, making it a popular winter destination.

    • Nagano Prefecture's popularity starts with a wealth of historic treasures, like Matsumoto Castle, Zenkoji Temple, and Togakushi Shrine, but the highlight might just be the prefecture's natural vistas surrounded by the "Japanese Alps." Nagano's fruit is famous, and there are plenty of places to pick it fresh, and the area is full of hot springs, including Jigokudani Monkey Park―where monkeys take baths as well! Thanks to the construction of the Hokuriku shinkansen line, Nagano is easily reachable from the Tokyo area, adding it to plenty of travel itineraries. And after the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics, ski resorts like Hakuba and Shiga Kogen are known around the world.

    • Aichi Prefecture sits in the center of the Japanese islands, and its capital city, Nagoya, is a center of politics, commerce, and culture. While Aichi is home to major industry, and is even the birthplace of Toyota cars, it's proximity to the sea and the mountains means it's also a place with beautiful natural scenery, like Saku Island, Koijigahama Beach, Mt. Horaiji. Often used a stage for major battles in Japanese history, Sengoku era commanders like Oda Nobunaga, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and Tokugawa Ieyasu left their own footprints on Aichi, and historic buildings like Nagoya Castle, Inuyama Castle, and those in Meiji Mura are still around to tell the tale.

    • NIIGATA

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      Niigata is a prefecture on Japan's main island of Honshu, situated right on the coast of the Sea of Japan, and abundant with the gifts of nature. It's known for popular ski resorts such as Echigo-Yuzawa, Japanese national parks, and natural hot spring baths, plus local products like fresh seafood, rice, and sake. Visitors often spend time in the prefectural capital, Niigata City, or venture across the water to Sado Island.

    • SHIZUOKA

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      Shizuoka Prefecture is sandwiched between eastern and western Japan, giving the prefecture easy access to both Tokyo and Osaka. Not only is it known for beautiful natural attractions, with everything from Mount Fuji to Suruga Bay, Lake Hamanako, and Sumata Pass―Shizuoka's Izu Peninsula is known as a go-to spot for hot springs lovers, with famous onsen like Atami, Ito, Shimoda, Shuzenji, and Dogashima. Shizuoka attracts all kinds of travelers thanks to historic connections with the Tokugawa clan, the Oigawa Railway, fresh eel cuisine, Hamamatsu gyoza, and famously high-quality green tea.

    • Kansai (関西) is a region that includes Mie, Nara, Wakayama, Kyoto, Osaka, Hyogo, and Shiga Prefectures. Kansai contained Japan's ancient capital for hundreds of years, and it's making a comeback as one of the most popular parts of Japan. Kyoto's temples and shrines, Osaka Castle, and the deer of Nara are all considered must-sees. Plus, the people of Kansai are especially friendly, making it a fun place to hang out.

    • Kyoto flourished as the capital of Japan between the years 794 and 1100, becoming a center for poilitics and culture, and to this day it's a great place for close encounters with Japanese history. The cobbled streets of Gion, the atmospheric road to Kiyomizudera Temple, Kinkakuji's golden walls and countless historic attractions, even Arashiyama's Togetsukyo Bridge―Kyoto is a place of many attractions. With new charms to experience throughout the seasons, travelers can't stop themselves from returning again and again.

    • Nara Prefecture's important history reaches back to 710, a time now called the Nara era, when it was once capital of Japan. Called "Heijo-kyo" during its time as a capital, it's said that nara was once the end of the silk road, leading it to flourish as a uniquely international region and produce important cultural properties of all kinds. To make the most of each season, travelers head to Nara Park, where the Nara deer who wander freely, or climb Mount Yoshino, a famous cherry blossom spot.

    • Osaka is known for friendly (and funny) people, but its history is nothing to laugh at, playing a major part in Toyotomi Hideyoshi's 16th century unification of Japan. Thanks to long years of economic activity, it's one of Japan's biggest cities, and Osaka's popular food culture earned it the nickname "The Kitchen of the Nation." To this day Osaka is the model of western Japan, and alongside historic structures like Osaka Castle, it also has major shopping malls like Umeda's Grand Front Osaka and Tennoji's Abeno Harukas. Osaka is a place to eat, eat, eat, with local specialties like takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushi-katsu, and for extra fun, it's home to Universal Studios Japan.

    • CHUGOKU

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      The Chugoku Region (中国地方) consists of five prefectures: Hiroshima, Okayama, Shimane, Tottori, and Yamaguchi. In Chugoku you’ll find the sand dunes of Tottori, and Hiroshima’s atomic bomb site, plus centers of ancient history like Grand Shrine of Izumo.

    • HIROSHIMA

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      Hiroshima Prefecture has everything, from world heritage sites to beautiful nature and delicious local cuisine, and it's either an hour and a half from Tokyo by plane, or four hours by train. Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island and the Atomic Bomb Dome, two Hiroshima UNESCO sites, are famous around the world, but in Japan it's also famous for food. Seafood from the Seto Inland Sea, especially oysters, Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, and Setouchi lemons are all popular, and the natural scenery alone is worth seeing.

    • SHIKOKU

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      On the other side of the Seto Inland Sea opposite Japan’s main island, Shikoku (四国) is a region made up of four prefectures: Ehime, Kagawa, Kochi, and Tokushima. The area is famous for its udon (in Kagawa), and the beautiful Dogo Onsen hot springs (in Ehime).

    • Kagawa Prefecture is on the northern part of the island of Shikoku, facing Japan's main island and the Seto Inland Sea. It's known for being the smallest prefecture in Japan, by area, but at the same time Kagawa is called the "Udon Prefecture" thanks to its famous sanuki udon. Aside from Kotohiragu Shrine and Ritsurin Garden, the prefecture's small islands are popular, and Kagawa is full of unique destinations, like Angel Road. They say that if you lay eyes on Zenigata Sunae, a huge Kagawa sand painting, you'll never have money troubles ever again.

    • Located in the most southwestern part of Japan, Kyushu (九州) is an island of 7 prefectures: Fukuoka, Saga, Nagasaki, Kumamoto, Oita, Miyazaki, and Kagoshima. The island's unique culture has been influenced by Chinese and Dutch trade, along with missionaries coming in through Nagasaki's port. Modern-day travelers love the lush natural scenery and fresh food, plus the natural hot springs found all throughout the area (thanks to volcanic activity)!

    • FUKUOKA

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      Fukuoka Prefecture has the highest population on the southern island of Kyushu, with two major cities: Fukuoka and Kitakyushu. Thanks to growing transportation networks, Fukuoka is more accessible than ever, and so are the many local attractions. On top of historical spots like Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, travelers shouldn't miss Fukuoka's food scene, with motsu nabe (offal hotpot), mentaiko (spicy cod roe), and famous Hakata ramen―best eaten from a food stall in the Nakasu area of Hakata. Plus, it's full of all sorts of destinations for travelers, like trendy shopping centers, and the beautiful nature of Itoshima and Yanagawa.

    • KAGOSHIMA

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      Kagoshima Prefecture played a major role in Japan's modernization as a backdrop for famous historical figures like samurais Saigo Takamori and Okubo Toshimichi, who pushed Japan out of the Edo era and into the Meiji. Because of that, Sengan-en Garden is just one of many historical destinations, and when it comes to attractions Kagoshima has plenty: the active volcano of Sakurajima, popular hot springs Ibusuki Onsen and Kirishima Onsen, World Heritage Site Yakushima Island, even what Japan calls the "island closest to heaven," Amami Oshima. Kagoshima might be found on the very southernmost tip of the southern island of Kyushu, but there's plenty to see.

    • OKINAWA

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      The island chain of Okinawa (沖縄) makes up the southernmost tip of Japan, which is why it's also the most tropical area in the country. Thanks to a history of independence and totally distinct political and cultural events, Okinawa has a unique culture, and remnants of the Ryukyu Kingdom are still visible all over the islands. Food, language, traditional dress, it's all a little different! It's also said to be the birthplace of karate.

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