「WORLD MASTERS GAMES (WMG) 2021 KANSAI」 is an international multi-sport event which basically allows anyone over 30 to compete. Besides enjoying the sport events, participants can also take this opportunity to explore the Kansai area where WMG2021 is being held. In this article, we would like to recommend a few places to visit.
1. Arima Onsen: Rejuvenate your body at the oldest hot spring in Japan
Arima Onsen in Hyogo Prefecture is one of the most famous hot springs in Japan. Its “gold spring” is effective in curing sensitivity to cold, muscle and joint pain, and improving blood circulation. It is the perfect spot for WMG2021 athletes to relax after vigorous exercise.
People who are not used to public bathing may opt for private bath plans or rent a swimsuit so they can use the specified hot spring baths. WMG2021 is a great chance to experience the Japanese culture of hot spring bathing.
2. Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is one of the largest aquariums in the world. It was the top-ranked aquarium in Asia on TripAdvisor🄬. Kaiyukan’s main attraction is the Pacific Ocean tank, the largest among the walk-through aquarium displays. The tanks are so huge that it feels like you are in the vast ocean enjoying the sight of whale sharks swimming freely, which might help you relax from the tension of competitive sport.
It’s also possible to enjoy the aquarium at night, which is a great option for people with events during the day. Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan at night is the perfect place to enjoy a romantic atmosphere with the fish swimming gracefully in the dim light.
3. Tranquility of Japanese Riverside Scenery: Omihachiman, Shiga Prefecture
The riverside district of Omihachiman evokes the childhood scene of many people who grew up in farming villages. It is an area where people coexist in harmony with nature and has been designated as a Cultural Landscape by the Japanese government. The riverbank is lined with reeds, the iconic plant of waterfront districts, in a landscape that looks like a painting.
You can take a “suigo meguri” boat tour of the area, and enjoy the scenery while slowly cruising in a hand-paddled boat. The waterways of Omihachiman are considered to be one of The Eight Great Views of Lake Biwa, frequently used as a film location for Japanese period dramas.
4. Mysterious Rock Garden of Ryoanji Temple, Kyoto
Kyoto is full of old temples and historic places. Among them, we would like to recommend Ryoanji Temple and its world-famous rock garden. The garden is a work of art, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, laid out according to a sophisticated design and is considered the pinnacle of Japanese Zen aesthetics. The mystery of the rock garden — who created it and what does the layout of the stones signify? — only adds to its popularity with local and foreign tourists alike.
Ryoanji temple is home to the practice of Zen, a form of meditation which clears and focuses the mind, has the right atmosphere to help athletes prepare for an event. After the excitement of the atmosphere of WMG2021, it might also be good to visit this oasis of tranquility to find some inner peace.
5. Todaiji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine in Nara Park
Nara Park is a must for visitors to Nara, as it is a quintessentially Japanese place with lots to enjoy. Besides feeding the deer in the park, Todaiji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine are well worth a visit.
Nara is the ancient capital of Japan, and as such, it has many historical sites, such as timeless wooden structures and the largest Buddha statue in Japan. WMG2021 offers a great opportunity to visit this fascinating city and admire magnificent historical treasures up close.
6. Fantastic Nature Scenery and Wide Seascapes of Wakayama Prefecture
Hashigui-iwa Rock is a mysterious natural formation found in Yoshino-Kumano National Park in Wakayama Prefecture. This rock appears in an old story about Kobo Daishi (Kukai), but still you can enjoy the ancient beautiful scenery in these days. At sunset, the setting is especially beautiful with the silhouettes of the rocks mirrored on the calm surface of the sea.
WMG2021, an Opportunity to Experience Kansai
WMG2021’s focus is its wide range of sports events, but at the same time it provides an opportunity to experience the attractions of the Kansai region. Of course, in addition to the places mentioned in this article, there are many other interesting places to visit in Kansai. Please make the most of your trip to Japan as you take part in WMG2021!
WMG Official Website (English)⇒https://wmg2021.jp/en/
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