japanese tourism places

21 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Japan

Written by Meagan Drillinger Updated Mar 20, 2024

Japan is an enigma. It's the perfect juxtaposition of centuries-old traditions overlapped with lightning speed, cutting-edge technology. Many first-time visitors to Japan are often surprised to learn that, as one of the world's most advanced industrialized nations, this relatively small Asian country also boasts a rich and fascinating history that dates back thousands of years.

Indeed, long before many of Europe's most spectacular cathedrals were built, Japan's Shinto and Buddhist temples were already well-established and drawing pilgrims and patrons to their elaborate designs and décor. At the same time, the country was already perfecting the skills and trades that would set it on the path to riches, from fine porcelains and ceramics to textiles such as silk.

Much of this rich tradition has, despite wars and natural devastation, been preserved (or rebuilt), and a visit to Japan is a memorable adventure. Boasting an endless list of top attractions, fun things to do, and points of interest to explore, a vacation in Japan is certainly a great investment of time and money.

Discover the best places to visit in the country with our list of the top tourist attractions in Japan.

1. Mount Fuji

2. imperial tokyo, 3. hiroshima peace memorial park, 4. historic kyoto, 5. the island shrine of itsukushima, miyajima, 6. temple city: historic nara, 7. osaka castle, 8. chūbu-sangaku national park and the japanese alps, 9. the atsuta shrine, nagoya, 10. fukuoka castle ruins and the city's ancient festivals, 11. sapporo, hokkaido, 12. fushimi inari-taisha shrine, kyoto, 13. koyasan okunoin, 14. kiyomizu-dera, kyoto, 15. shinjuku gyoen national garden, tokyo, 16. hakone open-air museum, hakone, 17. naritasan shinsho-ji, narita, 18. okinawa churaumi aquarium, 19. matsumoto castle, nagano, 20. arashiyama monkey park, kyoto, 21. kenrokuen garden, kanazawa, tips for making the most of your visit to japan, best time to visit japan.

Without a doubt Japan's most recognizable landmark, majestic Mount Fuji (Fuji-san) is also the country's highest mountain peak. Towering 3,776 meters over an otherwise largely flat landscape to the south and east, this majestic and fabled mountain is tall enough to be seen from Tokyo, more than 100 kilometers away.

Mount Fuji has for centuries been celebrated in art and literature and is now considered so important an icon that UNESCO recognized its world cultural significance in 2013. Part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park , Mount Fuji is climbed by more than a million people each summer as an act of pilgrimage, which culminates in watching the sunrise from its summit.

While some still choose to begin their climb from the base, the majority of climbers now start from above the halfway mark, at the 5th Station, resulting in a more manageable six-or-so-hour ascent. Those who do attempt the complete climb are advised to depart in the afternoon, breaking up the climb with an overnight stop at one of the "Mountain Huts" designed for this very purpose. An early start the next day gets you to the top for the sunrise.

Of course, for many, simply viewing the mountain from the distance, or from the comfort of a speeding train, is enough to say "been there, done that."

• Read More: Exploring Mount Fuji: A Visitor's Guide

Tokyo's most famous landmark, the Imperial Palace with its beautiful 17th-century parks surrounded by walls and moats, is a must-see when visiting the nation's capital. Don't be put off by the fact that the majority of the palace is closed to the public (it's still in use by the Imperial family), as there is still enough to see simply by strolling the grounds.

In addition to the many fine views of the palace from numerous points in the surrounding parkland, visitors are permitted into the East Higashi-Gyoen Garden and other areas that are opened to the public as part of an organized tour. One of the most romantic views is of the famous Nijubashi Bridge , or "double bridge," so named for its watery reflection.

Another one of the must-sees for tourists visiting Tokyo is the famous Ginza shopping district. This always bustling area is home to the Kabuki-za Theatre with its Kabuki performances, as well as the Shimbashi Enbujo Theatre with its traditional Azuma-odori dances and Bunraku performances.

While little needs to be said here of the horrors of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima in August 1945, much can be said of the incredible efforts this vibrant city has made to commemorate the many victims of the world's first nuclear attack. Perhaps even more importantly, Hiroshima has become a symbol of lasting peace.

Visited by more than a million people each year, many from overseas, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park (Hiroshima Heiwa Kinen Kōen) lies at the epicenter of the atomic blast in what was once a bustling part of the city. Here you'll find a number of important monuments, memorials, and museums relating to the events of that fateful day.

In addition to the grounds and gardens with their colorful cherry blossoms, the park is where you'll find the Peace Memorial Museum, with its numerous exhibits dealing with the issue of world peace. It's also where you'll find the Memorial Cenotaph and the Flame of Peace , as well as the Atom Bomb Dome , the ruins of an administrative building that lay at the center of the explosion.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Hiroshima

One of Japan's most visited cities, lovely Kyoto – one of the few cities in the country to be spared the devastation of WWII – attracts more than 10 million visitors annually. Most of them are here to explore Kyoto's fine old streets and architecture, much of it unchanged since the Imperial family took up residence here more than 1,000 years ago.

Even then, the city was Japan's most important cultural center. This legacy, in fact, continues to this day with its many museums and art galleries, each bursting with important sculptures, paintings, and other art forms.

Highlights of Kyoto's Buddhist-influenced architecture include its many well-preserved temples, 30 of which are still in use, and important structures such as the 14th-century Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), famous for its exquisite gold-leaf-clad exterior.

Be sure to also visit Nijo Castle , a 17th-century fortress that has retained its original walls, towers, and moat. Also worth seeing are the castle's beautiful gates, along with its palace with fine interior décor.

Another landmark to visit is the original Kyoto Imperial Palace (Kyoto-gosho ) . Built in AD 794, it's one of the city's most visited historic sites.

Finally, no visit to Kyoto is complete without spending time exploring the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove . This beautiful area of tall bamboo is just a few minutes' walk from the town center.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Kyoto

Just a short ferry ride from mainland Hiroshima is the island of Miyajima , famous the world over as Japan's Shrine Island. Covering an area of 30 square kilometers in Hiroshima Bay, Miyajima is best known as the home of the Itsukushima Shrine, a Shinto temple dedicated to the Princess daughters of the wind god Susanoo.

Dating from the eighth century, the majority of the shrine's buildings rise out of the waters of a small bay supported only by piles. The effect at high tide is simply stunning, making these structures - including the famous Great Floating Gate (O-Torii) - appear as if they're floating on water.

Linked together by walkways and bridges, it's a fascinating place to explore, in particular its larger halls. These include the exquisite Honden (Main Hall), the Offerings Hall (Heiden), the Prayer Hall (Haiden), and the Hall of a Thousand Mats (Senjokaku).

Another notable feature is the shrine's stage, where visitors are entertained with traditional dances and musical performances. Also worth exploring are the island's exquisite grounds and gardens, home to wild deer and numerous bird colonies.

Please note: You can expect some interruptions and inconvenience from now until 2022 due to major renovations taking place at this historic site.

For centuries the hub of Japanese culture, the lovely unspoiled city of Nara is home to a large number of historic buildings, along with important national treasures and works of art.

In addition to its many historic streets, the city boasts numerous important old temples. These includ the magnificent seventh-century Kofuku-ji Temple , perhaps the best known of the Seven Great Temples of Nara; and the splendid eighth-century Todai-ji (Great East Temple), famous for its huge bronze statue of the Great Buddha (Daibutsu), cast here in AD 749.

Also of interest in Todai-ji are its Great South Gate (Nandaimon). This spectacular two-story structure is borne on 18 columns, with two Nio statues standing eight meters tall, and it guards the temple entrance. Also of note here is the Hall of the Great Buddha, the world's largest timber building.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Nara

Built in 1586 by famous Japanese warrior and politician Toyotomi Hideyoshi , Osaka Castle (Ōsaka-jō) was at the time the largest and most important fortress in the country. Although destroyed and rebuilt a number of times since, the present structure, built in 1931, remains true to the original.

Highlights of a visit include the huge five-story, 42-meter-tall main tower. Built on an imposing 14-meter-tall stone base, the tower is home to a number of displays detailing the history of the castle and the city. Be sure to visit the top floor for its superb views over Osaka, an especially attractive sight as the sun sets.

Also of interest in Osaka Castle Park is the Hokoku Shrine , while Osaka's best-known temple, Shitennō-ji , is also worth visiting and dates back to AD 59. Notable as Japan's first Buddhist temple, this lovely shrine features a five-story pagoda along with a number of other exquisitely decorated buildings. Among them are the Golden Pavilion (Kondō), with its fine statues and paintings; the Lecture Hall (Kōdō); and a lovely covered corridor linking three of the site's gates.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Osaka

Japan boasts a number of outstanding areas of natural beauty, many of them designated as national parks or, in some cases, UNESCO World Heritage Sites. One of the country's most spectacular of these is Chūbu-Sangaku National Park in the center of Honshu. Located in the park's northern and central regions is the group of mountains collectively referred to as the Hida Mountains , or Japanese Alps.

This region contains some of the highest peaks in the country, including Hotaka at 3,190 meters, and Yari at 3,180 meters. Similar in many ways to the Alps of Central Europe - both in the character of the landscape and in its abundance of snow in winter - the Japanese Alps attract large numbers of walkers and climbers in summer and skiers in winter.

Of particular interest is the park's abundance of flora and fauna, including the rare ptarmigan and mountain antelopes found at higher altitudes. The park's many hot springs also draw visitors and led to the development of various spas and holiday resorts, the best known being Kamikōchi .

The Atsuta Shrine, in the heart of the city of Nagoya, is the most important Shinto shrine in Japan, and attracts more than five million visitors each year. Established in the first century, this religious site is famous for its preserved Imperial insignia, the "grass-mowing sword" (kusanagi-no-tsurugi), one of only three in the country.

Also of interest are its principal shrine, Hongu, surrounded by an enclosing wall, and the treasury with its numerous works of art, including old and modern paintings, ceramics, jewelry, and traditional masks. While in Nagoya, be sure to also visit Nagoya Castle . This splendid moated complex was built in 1612 and boasts a 48-meter-high main tower that is famous for its two gilded dolphins (shachi). It's also a popular place to visit for its museum, containing art treasures from the former palace, and its spectacular views over the city and the Nobi Plain.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Nagoya

The ruins of the once-grand Fukuoka Castle (Fukuoka-jō), built in the early 1600s, punctuate the middle of Maizuru Park. The castle was once a fine example of the prolific and majestic hilltop homes preferred by Shoguns and city rulers. But it was destroyed after the Meiji Restoration as a backlash against the feudal system.

Today, only the ruins of the castle remain, including the main gate and one of the turrets. Visitors mainly come here for the leafy walking trails and scenic lookouts, with beautiful views over the Naka River. If you climb to the top of the ruins, you can see views of the city beyond. The park is especially lovely in spring when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom.

Fukuoka is also well known for its many events and festivals. The best-known of these is Hakata Gion Yamakasa , a famous two-week long, 700-year-old celebration held each July that draws millions of visitors from across the country to its colorful parades, as well as its traditional races and costumes.

The city is not without its modern attractions, too. Most notable among them is Canal City Hakata , a-city-within-the-city complete with a canal running through the complex, along with great shops, hotels, restaurants, and a theater.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Fukuoka

Located on Japan's northernmost island, Hokkaido, the city of Sapporo offers many things to do for tourists . As the island's largest city, it's a hub of cultural activity, hosting many excellent events and festivals. It also has a distinctive culinary style; a rich theatrical history; and plenty of museums, galleries, and parks.

The focal point here is very much the city's attractive downtown area, the center of which is Odori Park, a large swath of green that's very pleasant to explore. From here, you can also access points of interest such as the Sapporo TV Tower , as well as the city's famous aerial tramway, an easy walk away. The Mount Moiwa Ropeway will eventually get you to the summit's Upper Station, from where you can enjoy incredible views over the city, a real treat at night.

The mountain is also the location of the Mount Moiwa Ski Resort, a popular winter destination, especially since the 1972 Winter Olympics were held in the city. And if you're arriving in winter, be sure to visit the Sapporo Snow Festival , held here each February and drawing in excess of two million revelers.

When you visit Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, you'll be seeing red – but in a beautiful way. One of the most important shrines in Japan, the Fushimi Inari shrine is found in southern Kyoto, made famous for the thousands (yes, thousands) of scarlet-colored gates that arch over a web of trails. These arch-covered trails command silence, so expect a very peaceful walk towards the forest around Mt. Inari.

Inari is the Shinto god of rice – one of the most important gods in Shintoism. Of the thousands of shrines dedicated to him, Fushimi Inari is decidedly the most important. Most travelers come to see the vermilion gates, but the shrine itself is also open for exploration, and the buildings are quite spectacular.

Visitors can also hike to the top of Mt. Inari, which takes roughly two to three hours round-trip. The route up the mountain is dotted with shrines and smaller gates, as well as spots to grab something to eat.

While a cemetery may not seem like an obvious top attraction, Japan's Koyasan Okunoin is a great exception. One of the most sacred places in the country, this popular pilgrimage spot holds the mausoleum of Kobo Daishi, the founder of Shingon Buddhism.

Daishi, also called Kukai, is one of the most important figures in Japan's Buddhist history. It is said that he sits in eternal meditation while waiting for the Buddha of the Future. Those who make the pilgrimage to his mausoleum do so to ask for salvation in this life.

Upon reaching the cemetery, visitors will cross the Ichinohashi Bridge, which is the first bridge into the cemetery. On the way to the mausoleum, visitors will pass more than 200,000 tombstones. The path leads to Gokusho Offering Hall, where visitors can make offerings, as well as pray for family members they have lost.

A second bridge, the Gobyobashi Bridge, is what separates the most sacred center of the site from the rest of the cemetery. Here is where you'll find the Miroku Stone, as well as Torodo Hall, which is a main worship hall just in front of the mausoleum. The hall is aglow with thousands of lanterns. Behind the hall is the mausoleum itself, and it is a most awesome experience to visit.

You'll feel the power of something – whether you believe or not – as pilgrims from all over the country have come to chant and pray in the presence of Kobo Daishi.

Kyoto is practically overflowing with gorgeous sites and landmarks. The city is a top attraction itself. But one can't come to Kyoto without visiting Kiyomizu-Dera, or the Pure Water Temple.

One of the most important temples in Japan, Kiyomizu-Dera was built in 780 CE on the grounds of the Otowa Waterfall. It was originally built to be part of the Hosso sect of Buddhism, but later formed its own sect in the mid 20th century.

Today the UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its wooden stage, which overlooks the beautiful rooftops of Kyoto, and the marvelous trees that always put on fantastic color displays in both the fall and cherry blossom season.

On the grounds, visitors will find other important sites, like the Jishu Shrine, as well as the Otowa Waterfall itself, which still gushes at the base of the monument's main hall.

One of Tokyo's most famous districts is the Shinjuku district, known for its electric nightlife, trendy restaurants, and upscale hotels. But the heart of the district is also home to one of Tokyo's most naturally beautiful attractions – the Shinjuku Gyoen park.

Within the park are sprawling green spaces and trails of walking paths that wind around stunning floral displays, ponds, and manicured shrubbery. Come cherry blossom season, the park is one of the best spots to catch the brilliant waves of powder pink.

The park was built during Japan's Edo Period (1603-1867) as the residence of a feudal lord. After that it became a botanical garden and then was an entertaining grounds for Japan's Imperial Family in the early 20th century. It opened in 1949 as a public park.

Within the park are three different styles of garden, including a Japanese landscape, English landscape, and French landscape.

The town of Hakone, located within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park to the west of Tokyo, is known for its stunning mountains and tranquil hot spring resorts. That is reason enough to visit this stunning small town. But another top draw to this peaceful bit of paradise is the impressive Open-Air Museum.

True to its name, the outdoor museum is a sculpture park that spreads over 17 acres. Opened in 1969, it is one of the first open-air museums in Japan, featuring more than 100 sculptures all over the grounds.

One of the most impressive sculptures here is the Symphonic Sculpture, which allows visitors to climb a stained-glass tower to reach a viewing platform that overlooks the surrounding mountains, as well as the other works of art on the grounds.

In addition to the outdoor exhibits, the museum has an indoor exhibit, including one of the world's most impressive collections of Picasso . You'll find more than 300 of the great Spanish painter's works here, including his oil paintings, prints, ceramics, and sculptures.

Dating back more than 1,000 years, the Naritasan Shinshoji Temple is one of the most popular Buddhist temples in Japan. The purpose for the temple was to protect and pay homage to a statue of the Buddhist god, Fudo Myoo, which is said to have been carved by Kobo Daishi. Within the temple grounds are several buildings, including several different style pagodas, a park, and the main halls.

Approaching the temple complex is like stepping back in time. The half-mile journey from the rail station to the temple complex is a road lined with restaurants and handicraft stores. The same has been true of this street for hundreds of years. While the stores themselves may have a 21st-century appeal, the arrival experience to the temple complex has remained unchanged for centuries.

Japan's Okinawa archipelago consists of more than 150 islands that speckle the area between Taiwan and Japan's mainland. This tropical environment is completely unique to other areas of Japan, home to beautiful beaches and swaying palm trees. The main island is also called Okinawa, and is home to several museums, as well as the Churaumi Aquarium.

The aquarium is widely considered to be the best in Japan, known for its Kuroshio Tank. Within this massive tank are about 60 different species of animals, but most visitors come to see the gigantic whale sharks and gliding manta rays.

Other attractions within the aquarium include a deep water exhibit, which shows off bioluminescent fish, as well as an area dedicated to tiger and bull sharks. Outside are a variety of pools that are home to dolphins, sea turtles, and manatees.

Japan has hundreds of beautiful, historic castles. But none is as complete or mesmerizing as Matsumoto Castle. Built from 1592 to 1614, Matsumoto is located in the city of Nagano. Tip: One of the best times to visit the castle is in the spring , when the grounds of the castle are powdered a soft pink with the bloom of thousands of cherry blossoms.

Inside the castle, visitors have one of the best glimpses back into time. Matsumoto Castle has maintained its wooden interiors, giving a true historic feel to the experience. Matsumoto is considered to be one of five castles that are designated as "National Treasures of Japan." It is the oldest six-story castle tower that remains in the country.

Located in the Arishayama section of Kyoto, the famous Arashiayama Monkey Park is one of the best things to do both in Kyoto, as well as Japan overall. A short hike up a forest-covered mountain opens up to sweeping views over the city, as well as a troop of more than 120 Japanese macaque monkeys.

The macaques roam freely in the monkey park, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with these energetic creatures. You can even feed them with food you purchase at the park. You'll find a small, wooden enclosure where you can feed the monkeys. Outside the enclosure the macaques roam freely, bouncing from branch to branch and scattering across the dirt trails.

The top of the peak also provides a great view of Kyoto and the beautiful mountain peaks in the distance. Visiting the monkey park is wonderful in both spring and fall because you'll have a bird's eye view of the cherry blossoms and the brilliant changing of the leaves.

Perfectly manicured with the highest attention to detail, the gardens in Japan are truly works of art. To visit a Japanese garden is to step into a painting. Arguably the most beautiful garden in Japan is the Kenrokuen Garden in Kanazawa. The grounds used to be a part of Kanazawa Castle and were opened to the public in the 19th century.

What makes the garden so special is that it was designed around what are known as the six essentials to make a perfect garden. These include spaciousness, seclusion, antiquity, abundant water, views, and artificiality.

While exploring the grounds, visitors will pass by beautiful pools, babbling brooks, bridges, teahouses, artfully placed stones and flowerbeds, as well as sweeping views and secluded pockets.

The park is a beautiful spot to witness the cherry blossoms in the spring, as well as the sweeping autumn colors that take over in the fall.

• Shoulder Season Travel : Due to its being blessed with so many amazing points of interest, Japan's top attractions can, during the peak summer months, get rather busy. If you can be flexible with your trip planning, create a sightseeing itinerary that will allow you to explore this beautiful country during the quieter shoulder seasons. You'll not only be rewarded by fewer lineups, but will be able to enjoy things other visitors will miss out on: spring cherry blossoms in places like Nara Park; amazing fall colors in the hillside spa destination of Jozankei Onsen; and historic structures such as Fukuoka Castle blanketed in snow.
• Faster Than a Speeding Bullet (Train) : Thanks to its superb modern and efficient public railway system, Japan is an easy country to get around. Japan Railways is responsible for more than 21,000 kilometers of rail lines, connecting all points to larger cities such as Tokyo. The best of these is the Shinkansen Bullet Train , capable of traveling 320 kilometers per hour, making a trip such as Tokyo to Fukuoka - some 1,170 kilometers away - doable in just over six hours. Be sure to pick up your Japan Rail Pass or book your rail tours before departure to ensure savings.

Despite its small size, Japan experiences almost every kind of weather you could imagine – from rainy typhoon seasons to snowy winters to hot humid summers. Whether you want to ski, hike, or explore the city, Japan has much to offer – and a perfect season for each of these activities.

For most tourists interested in sightseeing, the best time to visit Japan is during the months of March and April , as the weather is milder, the sakura (cherry blossoms) are in bloom, and the big summer crowds haven't arrived yet.

A land of contrasts and surprises, Japan has stunning springs, snowcapped mountains in winter, and plenty to do outdoors in the warmer months. The best time to visit Japan can be any time, depending on your interests.

Spring: Sakura (cherry blossoms) completely transform Japan during the months of March and April, making spring one of the most beautiful seasons in the country . Spring temperatures can vary widely depending on where you're heading, with the northern destinations seeing around 4 degrees Celsius in April, and the southern cities experiencing temperatures in the mid to high teens-in many places like Tokyo, temperatures are usually in the single digits in the early mornings and at night, but a comfortable 13 to 15 degrees during the day.

Summer: Japan's summers are hot, humid, and often wet . Temperatures in the cities often reach into the high 20s and sometimes 30s, but with high humidity present, it feels much hotter. Summer is a great time to head to the mountains and the countryside to escape the urban heat . Between July and October, the coast of Japan is under the threat of typhoons and heavy rains, although the wettest months are usually August and September .

Fall: Fall is a great time to travel around Japan , as you'll get cooler weather, great Autumn colors, and discounted prices. Although spring has similar temperatures, fall is drier , so you won't have to constantly carry an umbrella with you everywhere you go. Rikugien Garden in Tokyo and Lake Kawaguchi at the foot of Mt. Fuji are great places to catch the autumn colors.

Winter: Depending on your destination, Japanese winters can be very cold (as low as -10 degrees Celsius in Sapporo) or mild (Naha regularly sees January temperatures around 15 degrees Celsius). In most places, however, winters are dry-no humidity and very little rain, with snow mostly falling on the countryside but sometimes also blanketing the bigger cities. The alpine regions, including the ski resorts around Hokkaido, are among the best places to visit in Japan in winter. Slopes are great in January and February, with plenty of powdery snow for outdoor sports.

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Endless Day Trip Options : Wherever you choose to visit in Japan, the country's fast rail services open up endless possibilities for day trippers. Even if you are only visiting one city, you may be able to see several important tourist attractions in the surroundings. For more detail in planning your trip, see our articles on day trips from Tokyo , as well as historic Kyoto , and Osaka .

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Best places to visit in japan.

Known as the Land of the Rising Sun, Japan's civilization dates as far back as 30,000 years. Today, the archipelago seamlessly blends its rich history with its ultra-modern present. And while its capital, Tokyo, is a must-visit for first timers, Japan has so much more to offer travelers of all types, from cherry blossoms to white sand beaches to soothing onsen (hot spring spas). U.S. News took into account cultural attractions, culinary options and accessibility (among other factors) to bring you the best places to visit in Japan. Have a favorite? Vote below to help decide next year's ranking.

Izu Peninsula

This metropolis is a feast for the senses. Neighborhoods like Ginza and Akihabara buzz with flashing lights and larger-than-life shopping, while Meiji Shrine and the Tokyo Imperial Palace give you a look into Japan's storied past. There are also a number of green spaces like Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, which acts as a place to escape from the chaotic, concrete jungle. What's more, Tokyo is regularly regarded as a top foodie city thanks in part to its abundant Michelin-starred restaurants (the most you'll find in any city in the world), so come hungry.

Travelers most interested in Japan's history and traditions should head to Kyoto. Centrally located on the archipelago, Kyoto has long been considered the cultural capital of Japan. Here, you'll find more than 1,000 Buddhist temples and 400-plus Shinto shrines (you can't miss the Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Fushimi Inari Taisha), including a whopping 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites. You can also stroll through geisha districts like Gion and Miyagawacho, admire classic wooden architecture and visit traditional teahouses before checking out more modern attractions, such as the Kyoto Aquarium.

Nikko is the place to go to see lavish architecture surrounded by nature. Head to Nikko National Park, one of Japan's oldest national parks, to enjoy an up-close look at traditional structures situated alongside mountains, lakes, waterfalls and hot springs. The park is especially beautiful in fall when its trees display vivid shades of yellow, red and orange. The 103 Edo-era (1603–1868) temples and shrines in Nikko include world-renowned sites like Toshogu Shrine and Rinnoji Temple.

Situated about 35 miles southwest of Kyoto, this port city is worth a visit for its food alone. One of the city's most famous dishes, the tasty pancake-like okonomiyaki (which means "grilled as you like it" in Japanese), is made with batter, cabbage and your choice of meat and other toppings. After you've gotten your fill of the delectable local cuisine, explore the flashy Dotonbori neighborhood, check out the reconstructed 16th-century Osaka Castle or head to contemporary sights like Universal Studios Japan and the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan.

As Japan's second most populous city, Yokohama is often touted as a more approachable and more affordable alternative to Tokyo (located 22 miles northeast). As one of the country's first ports to open to international trade, Yokohama features unique culture fusions, including a sizable expat population, Western-style buildings in the Yamate area and the largest Chinatown in Japan (it has more businesses than residents). While here, visitors can explore Minato Mirai 21, the city's modern central district teeming with skyscrapers and shopping malls, and visit museums ranging from the Cup Noodles Museum to the Mitsubishi Minatomirai Industrial Museum.

More than 160 islands comprise Okinawa, a top destination for snorkeling and diving. The Japanese prefecture boasts proximity to multiple coral reefs teeming with fish, manta rays and hammerhead sharks that you can access from beautiful beaches like those found on Okinawa's Kerama Islands. These 20-plus islands are also ideal places to see migrating whales between January and March. Back on the main island, visitors will find one of the world's largest aquariums, several castle ruins and a museum that focuses on Okinawa's unique history and culture. And on the less developed Iriomote Island, adventurous travelers can hike to awe-inspiring waterfalls.

Spared from World War II air raids and the major natural disasters that have affected other Japanese cities, Kanazawa on the western coast is home to some of the country's best-preserved architecture from the Edo period. Sites like Kanazawa Castle, Seisonkaku Villa and Myoryuji temple are popular among visitors, as are the Higashi Chaya geisha district and Nagamachi Samurai District. Plus, no trip to Kanazawa would be complete without a visit to the resplendent Kenrokuen Garden. With its water features, bridges and a variety of flowering trees that add beauty to any season, Kenrokuen is often described as the perfect garden.

Nestled in the mountains of the Gifu prefecture, Takayama is ideal for visitors looking for a rural retreat with a dose of history. Start your visit with a rickshaw ride through the well-preserved old town, which features sake breweries, traditional residences and shops that date back to the feudal ages. Then, head to the Hida Folk Village, a former farming village with 30 gassho-style houses. When you've worked up an appetite, indulge in must-try local specialties including Hida beef and Takayama ramen. To further immerse yourself in Takayama culture, visit during the Takayama Festival, held for two days every spring and fall.

The country's tallest mountain and one of its most iconic landmarks is a popular destination for outdoor recreation. For centuries, Japanese artists and poets have been inspired by Mount Fuji's almost perfectly round form. The Fuji Five Lakes region at the foot of this UNESCO World Heritage Site makes a great base for the thousands of climbers who visit each year. Enjoy the area's museums and amusement park during the warmer months. Or, arrive in winter to soak in the onsen and ski Mount Fuji's slopes.

Located on Kyushu (Japan's third-largest island), Fukuoka offers travelers a mix of urban sprawl, sandy coastlines and ancient temples and shrines. Can't-miss sights include Tochoji Temple – home of the largest sitting wooden Buddha in Japan – and Nokonoshima Island, which features colorful flower fields and beautiful views of the surrounding bay. Fukuoka is also known for its incredible Hakata ramen, so be sure to try this tasty dish at one of the city's many food stalls. Plan your visit around one of Fukuoka's lively festivals, such as the Hakata Gion Yamakasa, which takes place throughout the first half of July.

Head to the smallest of Japan's four main islands if you're looking to get off the beaten path. Shikoku is best known for its 88 Temple Pilgrimage – a nearly 750-mile loop that covers sacred sites around the island. Whether you're trekking this path or creating your own, you'll encounter Shikoku's natural beauty (think: forest-covered mountains and an unspoiled coastline). Meanwhile, the city of Kochi features cheap eats and a well-preserved castle. If you're visiting in mid-August, add Shikoku's cultural pinnacle, Awa Odori, to your itinerary. One of the most famous festivals in Japan, this dance celebration in the city of Takushima is a must-do.

Mountainous Hakone is one of Japan's most popular hot spring destinations. Nestled within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, the town features 17 different hot springs, plus a hot spring theme park with unique baths like one with coffee and another with mulled wine. After you've dried off, visit one of Hakone's art museums, such as the Hakone Open-Air Museum, the Okada Museum of Art or the Hakone Museum of Art. No Hakone vacation would be complete without enjoying spectacular views of Mount Fuji from Lake Ashinoko and the Komagatake Ropeway.

After an earthquake caused significant damage to the city in 1995, Kobe rebuilt itself into a thriving cosmopolitan city. You'll want to remember to bring your appetite when you visit. Kobe is famous for its namesake beef, as well as its sake. It's also considered one of Japan's most attractive cities, with sleek architecture and beautiful green spaces like Sorakuen Garden. For some of the city's best views – especially at sunset – go to the top of Mount Rokko or ride the Kobe Nunobiki Ropeway. End your evening exploring Nankinmachi (Kobe's compact Chinatown) or dining at one of Kobe Harborland's waterfront restaurants.

For many, Hiroshima brings up memories of war, as the city is where the world's first atomic bomb attack occurred in 1945. But today, Hiroshima is a city of peace, with the vast Peace Memorial Park as the center for monuments and memorials like the  the Children's Peace Monument and the UNESCO-certified Hiroshima Peace Memorial (Atomic Bomb Dome). It is also a city of great beauty. Travelers can take a scenic stroll through Shukkeien Garden, peruse the exhibits at the Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art or visit Sandankyo Gorge to hike or boat past its beautiful waterfalls, caves and coves.

Tourists flock to the island of Miyajima (formally named Itsukushima) for its prime attraction: Itsukushima Shrine and its postcard-worthy torii gate. To see the shrine at its most picturesque, try to visit during high tide, when the gate appears to float on the water. Since the island is just a 30-minute ferry ride from Hiroshima, it makes for a great day trip. However, visitors may want to stay the night at a charming ryokan (Japanese-style inn) to experience Miyajima at its most serene and walk by the illuminated shrine at night.

An outdoor-lover's delight, Matsumoto is just 22 miles east of Kamikochi, an awe-inspiring valley in the Hotaka mountain range. But though it serves as a gateway to the Japanese Alps, this city in central Japan should not be skipped over. As the birthplace of contemporary artist Yayoi Kusama, known for polka dots and pumpkins, Matsumoto pays her tribute at the Matsumoto City Museum of Art. Meanwhile, those who prefer more ancient masterpieces can visit Matsumoto Castle, one of the oldest and grandest castles in the country.  

Japan's first permanent capital is famous for housing the Great Buddha, a nearly 50-foot-tall bronze statue of Buddha. You'll find this jaw-dropping national treasure in Nara's Todaiji temple, which is the one of the largest wooden buildings in the world. While on the temple grounds, explore the deer-filled Nara Park and the ornate Kasuga Taisha shrine. Also save time for visiting Yakushiji Temple, one of Japan's oldest temples that dates back to A.D. 730.

This peninsula situated 62 miles southwest of Tokyo makes a great getaway from the busy city. It is popular among locals and tourists alike thanks to its relaxing hot springs and stunning beaches. These, along with various museums and ryokans, can be found in cities like Atami and Shimoda on the Izu Peninsula's eastern coast. During spring visits, travelers will also want to check out Kawazu's vibrant pink blooms at the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival. Meanwhile, on the southern and western coasts, vacationers will find more rugged yet equally scenic coastlines, such as Cape Irozaki and Dogashima.

12 Day Tour of Japan

Japan by Train: The Grand Tour

Osaka to Tokyo, via historic cities and natural wonders, on Japan’s high-tech train network.

Starts at: Osaka

Ends at: Tokyo

Duration: 12 days

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24 of the best experiences in Japan

Mar 23, 2024 • 17 min read

Tokyo has a quirky delight around every corner © ModernewWorld / Getty Images

Japan sparks all the senses, from its temple bells, capsule hotels and breezy cat islands to outdoor sculptures, pine-forest hot springs and umami flavors in world-class dining.

The downside of having so many incredible attractions in one country is feeling overwhelmed by the options – where to even begin? Don't worry – we're here to help with a round-up of the best things to do in Japan , both celebrated and under the radar.

1. Devour authentic Japanese food alongside locals

Wafting aromas of charcoal yakitori chicken skewers with sweet teriyaki sauce. The sizzle of okonomiyaki seafood and cabbage "pancakes" on the hotplate.

Everywhere you turn, restaurants and tiny diners whip up magnificent Japanese dishes. Osaka and Fukuoka's yatai (moveable stalls) make for a street-food paradise, and trying  different flavors every day is one of the most exciting Japanese experiences.

For casual eating for couples and groups, a cavernous izakaya is a great choice – part bar, part restaurant, and dependable for a good-value meal of nabemono (hotpot dishes), Kobe and wagyū beef, sashimi and grilled fish.

Solo travelers (and fussy kids) can join the fun, picking out sushi from a kaiten-zushi conveyor-belt restaurant such as  Numazukō  in Tokyo.

Modern Japanese snacks that are faves with youngsters include cartoonishly fluffy hotcakes, omurice (rice-filled omelet and ketchup) and pyramids of strawberry-and-cream sando (sandwiches).

Plenty of small restaurants specialize in just one dish, such as kara-age (fried chicken), udon (thick wheat noodles), soba (thin buckwheat noodles) or katsu-kare (crumbed pork-cutlet in mild curry).

Even small yakitori (barbecued chicken skewers) bars can wow you with their simple smoky flavors that pair perfectly with a glass of sake.

Local tip: A teishoku (set menu) lets you try a bit of everything (rice and miso soup included) and is a popular choice for lunch or a casual dinner.

2. Chase cherry blossoms and festivals

Japan loves a festival. There are plenty of matsuri (festivals) to celebrate snow, summer, music or any subject you can dream up.

They are an entertaining way to watch dancers and drummers in the traditional dress of each region, enjoy some street food and be dazzled by lanterns and fireworks. Things stay mostly orderly and child-friendly.

Cherry blossom viewing is nature’s festival and attracts a global crowd – the pink and white blooms signal the end of March and winter. The top spots to see loads of flowers are  Mount Yoshino , the Fuji Five Lakes region, castles like Hirosaki-jō , and all across Kyoto.

The other big festivals worth planning for include Kyoto’s summer bash, Gion Matsuri, in July, when you can catch giant floats and locals dressed in elegant yukata (cotton robes).

Sapporo’s annual snow festival in early February, Yuki Matsuri, includes the international snow sculpture contest, ice slides and mazes for kids.

3. Cycle between islands around the Seto Inland sea

The Shimanami Kaido is a place spun from the stuff of cyclists’ dreams. A 70km (43-mile) blue-painted cycle route unfurls across six islands, taking in jade mountains, orange groves and sea air.

From Onomichi on Honshū to Imabari on Shikoku, you can make stops to swim at secluded beaches, visit a museum dedicated to local painters, and visit shrines with sea views all to yourself.

Detour : To get even more off the beaten track, take the Tobishima Kaido cycle route.

4. Sip sake in Saijō

Come to a sake town for a blissfully quiet and meditative experience. Lift the small cup with two hands, one supporting the bottom. Admire the gold leaf dancing on the clear sake. Sip and feel the smooth, crisp liquid go down, chased with a hint of plum.

Then it’s on to another brewery next door. The process of transforming rice into alcohol goes back 2000 years, and some Saijō breweries date back 150 years.

The town is an austere set of eight white-washed breweries with brick chimney stacks proclaiming the name of each one in Japanese. Begin your taste-testing at the Kamotsuru Sake Brewing Company , where you can watch the brewing process.

Feudal lords drank here during the Edo period (1603–1868), and it was this brewery that produced a gold-leaf sake that US President Obama tried in Tokyo, poured by late Japanese President Abe. It may even entice you to declare your devotion to the god of sake .

5. Time jump to ancient Japan in Kyoto

With over 2000 exquisite temples, Kyoto is where traditional Japan thrives. Visiting splendid gardens and ceremonial teahouses is part of the deep dive into its history.

One of the most exquisite sights in the whole of Japan is the gold-leaf tiers of Kinkaku-ji . Its temple beams gloriously in the sun, with a mirror image in the pond below, framed by layers of pine trees.

The garden tradition in Kyoto has close ties to monks, emperors and philosophers. Japanese gardens have minimalist designs to allow breathing room for meditation and reflection.

The finest gardens in Kyoto show personality even through subtle choices: a weathered bridge to represent the march of time or unique pebbles. The most intriguing Zen garden is Ryōan-ji , a mysterious arrangement of 15 rocks.

Planning tip: There is a lot to love in Kyoto, so arrive early on a weekday to beat intense crowds and enjoy a peaceful time reflecting on Japan’s living traditions. Come evening, stroll through lantern-lit streets lined with 17th-century traditional restaurants and teahouses in the Gion entertainment and geisha quarter.

6. Zip across Japan on a bullet train

Its space shuttle nose glides into the station as if from another cosmos. That galaxy is Japan, where high-speed trains zip between cities at up to 320 kph (199 mph) with extra-terrestrial speed and comfort.

From the clean, comfortable seats, watch skyscrapers scroll by, transforming into pines and rural countryside in a flash.

There's a touch of yesteryear to the hard-wearing carpets and putty-colored luggage racks of some train models, but nothing looks weathered; it's just carriage loads of retro-futuristic charm.

Planning tip: The JR Pass and other all-inclusive train tickets can save you money and time. Some are cheaper to buy before arriving in Japan. Use the Japan Official Travel App to plan trips and compare costs with and without a pass.

7. Enter anime worlds in Akihabara and Den Den Town

Akihabara in Tokyo and Den Den Town in Osaka are heaven for anime otaku (fanatics). Even if you aren’t a fan, these specialist districts are worth visiting to experience the height of artistic obsession done the Japanese way.

In Japan, anime is more than something you watch – it is toys, video games, fashion and a way of life. Anime characters even emblazon credit cards, trains and government brochures. Lose yourself in these neighborhoods and see fans bringing characters to life in costume.

It’s easy to be dazzled and transported into a cartoon world (and consumerism). Under towers of bright lights, French-style maids and cosplay characters tout you to enter maid cafes in Akihabara.

Hundreds of stores have all the manga (comics), gashapon (gumball toy machines), retro collectibles and cutting-edge tech gadgets your otaku heart could want.

Detour : If you – or the kids – prefer a calmer way to be spirited away by anime, the Ghibli Museum in West Tokyo is also magical.

8. Sleep in a capsule hotel

Get ready for a wonderfully unique Japanese experience. Scan the stacks of capsules and step up the ladder into your "space pod."

Sit cross-legged (there’s enough room) and enjoy the plush mattress and the feeling of being cocooned in comfort.

A capsule hotel is where a bed is for sleeping and privacy – paramount in Japan. Fortunately, there is plenty of space in the communal bathrooms that usually have ample shower cubicles.

On the weekends, the cheaper capsule hotels might get drunken revelers snoring, but people are generally very respectful.

This is not a place for socializing, which is heaven for solo travelers who just want a good night’s rest in what looks like a spotless space station.

Planning tip: Capsules are separated into men's and women's sections. While originally intended for businessmen, today there are several women-only capsule hotels.

9. Indulge in a multi-course kaiseki meal

Capturing ingredients at the height of their freshness is the essence of a Japanese kaiseki meal. The tasting menu is where the pinnacle of Japanese design meets natural beauty and flavor with roots in sixteenth-century tea ceremonies.

In-season ingredients make up a formal kaiseki meal that might start with a course of sea urchin and horsehair crab, and then move on to a soup and a seasonal platter of dishes like sushi and Kameoka beef.

The subsequent courses are dedicated to in-season sashimi, color-coordinated vegetables and tofu, grilled seasonal fish, sake, rice in a clay hot pot and dessert. In spring, expect a budding cherry blossom to decorate your plate. Every course is a gasp-inducing journey through Japanese ceramics and presentation.

Local tip : You'll find some of the best kaiseki in Kyoto, such as at Kikunoi . If your budget can't stretch to the full  kaiseki experience, attending a Japanese tea ceremony is an elegant way to capture some of the rituals and learn the traditions of tea.

10. Find your tribe in Tokyo's nightlife

Tokyo is the cool kid of Japan’s club and bar scene. That means a reliable night of house music at Womb and EDM at Atom Tokyo . Punk, metal and indie bars rock hard throughout "Shimokita" (Shimokitazawa).

Leading the way for LGBTIQ+ inclusion, the raucous crowds spilling onto the street around the gay clubs of Shinjuku-Nichōme show how progressive Tokyo can be.

Detour: For something more laid back, excellent whiskey bars operate across Tokyo. Japanese distillers regularly beat Scotland in whiskey competitions. Indulge at one of the best whiskey purveyors, Bar Benfiddich , if you can find this hidden, menu-less cocktail speakeasy.

11. Try every Japanese snack in a konbini

Japanese konbini (convenience stores) are one of Japan's most fun local eating experiences.

They might not be fine dining, but they’re part of many Japanese bullet train journeys, and they surprisingly (to most foreigners) offer high-quality snacks wherever you are in the country, 24 hours a day.

Tasty sushi, onigiri (rice balls filled with tuna, meat or plum) and grilled-fish bento meals are delivered around the clock, so you will likely get something fresh. You'll find more novelty and an explosion of choice (and matcha flavors) in the candy, beer and green tea aisles.

Planning tip : The most reliably good konbini are Family Mart, 7-Eleven and Lawson, which all have ATMs accepting foreign cards.

12. Dissolve away your stress in onsen hot springs

An onsen hot spring takes volcanic energy and converts it to a hot bath with the power to evaporate your worries.

A 3000-year tradition, onsen are found all over Japan and are among the most authentically Japanese experiences you can have, whether you're bathing at humble public bathhouses or in Zen gardens.

The natural settings allow you to feel the delicious contrast of the hot waters against the pine-fresh open air.

You can try them in many ryokan (traditional inns) and in resort towns such as Kusatsu and Beppu , where budget options are available in public bathhouses. To literally dip your toes in, there are free outdoor public foot baths in onsen towns.

Local tip: You have to bathe thoroughly at separate facilities before getting into a hot bath. Expect to get completely naked (modesty towels are allowed at some modern baths) and refreshed head to toe.

13. Live out samurai fantasies in Japanese castles

Samurai warriors once ruled Japan, residing around Japanese castles that still exude an aura of power today. Crane your head up to behold Himeji-jō (1580) – the most heavenly white, intact fortress of them all and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Then wander the complex along its labyrinth of paths, thick with cherry blossoms (in April). Ascend the six-story castle-keep and peek inside a former princess' residence – the stuff of peak Japanese fantasy.

The castle has crumbled, but samurai residences live on in Tsuwano, a Japanese mountain town where time seems in no hurry.

Zig-zag up to its hillside temple through the many torii gates. At the heart of town, surrounded by sleepy sake storefronts, you can step into former samurai houses, once off-limits to commoners.

If you want a Japanese fairytale without the crowds, Tsuwano delivers it. Golden carp swim the narrow canal running through the tow center as they have for two centuries.

14. Hunt for art outdoors in Naoshima and Hakone

Encountering contemporary art on an island village is a delight. On Naoshima and the surrounding islands, you’ll find traditional Japanese buildings converted into modern art installations incorporating the island’s history; he sunshine and sea air add an extra layer of sensory magic.

One of the most famous and joy-filled is the Yayoi Kusama Yellow Pumpkin sculpture waiting for you at the end of a jetty.

Nearer Tokyo, over a hundred monumental sculptures pepper the hills of Hakone Open-Air Museum . Thanks to this magical setting, works by Japanese and international artists such as Takao Tsuchida, Henry Moore and Picasso transform along with the seasons.

15. Stay in a traditional ryokan

A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn that, at its best, is fit for a feudal lord. Staying in a ryokan room is easy and rewarding – remove your slippers, slide open the shōji paper-screen door and step across the tatami mat floor of your room to the window.

The sunset flickers through the maple leaves and across the futon. When ready, change into your yukata (traditional cotton robe) and head to the dining room for a multi-course kaiseki meal of the region’s cuisine.

Local tip: Afterwards, take a dip in the onsen or slip straight into your reassuringly firm bed.

16. Embrace winter skiing and ice sculptures in Hokkaidō

Snow poised on the eaves of temples. Trees glazed with ice. Steam wafting over the onsen. Winter in Japan's north peaks in January, and February is the perfect time for skiing and hiking across powdery snow in the wilds of Hokkaidō .

Or enjoy the Japanese art of coziness in izakaya (taverns) with winter comfort dishes like oden fishcakes in a dashi broth.

For families, the ice sculptures of the Sapporo Snow Festival and the bathing wild monkeys of Jigokudani Monkey Park are fun for all ages. You might even spot Japan's iconic red-crowned cranes.

Detour: A side trip for taste-testing at Nikka Whisky is a warming delight.

17. Immerse yourself in digital art at teamLab Planets

There are plenty of themed museums in Japan, but the most avante garde is teamLab Planets . Every surface is a digital screen with a world of flowers, animals and scenery transporting you to another "planet." Prepare to get your feet wet as you walk on water, causing ripples and digital koi goldfish to dart.

Detour : Check out a Nintendo-themed cafe , Pokémon-themed cafe  or Tokyo Character Street  if you're visiting Tokyo with kids . Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea are also accessible from the capital.

18. Eat fresh sushi and sashimi

Japan is the largest fish-eating nation in the world. Preparing fish and seafood is an art, and its fish markets are the life force of that tradition. They are impeccably clean places with barely any fishy smells.

Early risers can catch the wholesale auctions at Tokyo's Toyosu Market from behind glass. The laneways of its former home at Tsukiji Market may have become a tourist-focused attraction, but restaurants across the country (especially in coastal towns) still sell excellent platters of sashimi and sushi prepared before you.

If it's all a little confusing, choose sushi sets in sushi-ya (sushi restaurants and bars). Or trust the chef at omakase restaurants, where your personal chef will prepare in-season and classic sushi and sashimi in front of you based on your tastes. Bill shock is quite possible.

Local tip: Karato Ichiba in Shimonoseki is a favorite market for a local vibe. On weekends, fisher folk set up stalls selling bentō of sashimi and cooked dishes of the local specialty, puffer fish (with the deadly parts removed, of course).

19. Make a wish at a Shinto shrine

Shinto shrines are where the Japanese pray or ask for good fortune. The kami (deities) range from Princess Konohanasakuya, the Shinto deity of Mount Fuji, to founders of powerful clans, or neighborhood deities.

A wall of ema (wooden tablets) hangs at many shrines, where you can write down your wish or offering for the deities to read. For a visitor, it’s a chance to reflect and appreciate the tranquil surroundings.

A Shinto shrine is a place in harmony with nature, where the trees and wind are framed by a giant gate.

Pray to the kami of rice at Kyoto's Fushimi Inari-Taisha and its tunnel of vermillion torii gates, ask for good exam results at plum-tree decorated Tenjin shrine Dazaifu Tenman-gū , or pray for general good luck at what is thought to be Japan’s oldest Shinto shrine, Izumo Taisha .

20. Relax in a seaside town

Japan is a country born of the sea. In its seaside towns, you’ll see squid drying on spinning racks in the sun, eat the freshest sashimi, find wooden shopfronts of yesteryear and soak up the lazy rays.

Tomonoura inspired anime maestro Hayao Miyazaki to create Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea – get ready to be entranced by the green hills that shelter a port of bobbing white boats. In Kamakura near Tokyo, you can stroll from a giant Buddha statue to the black-sand beach and admire sunsets from Enoshima Island.

There are 260 inhabited islands to retreat to. The Oki Islands are an oasis of sea coves, the highest sea cliffs in Japan and pristine waters all to yourself. To really slow down, Okinawa is an island dreamland with its own distinct culture and cuisine.

There are a handful of cat islands where hundreds of spoiled felines roam near the ports. From Tokyo, the most convenient is Tashirojima. Cats have wandered this island for hundreds of years – first to control the mice eating the silkworms, then as a lucky companion to fisherfolk.

Local tip: Matsue has one of Japan’s best sunsets. The giant red orb melts into the water with a silhouette of a torii gate on a distant shimmering island.

21. Sense peace in reborn Hiroshima

Hiroshima today is an attractive city of boulevards and okonomiyaki restaurants. It’s also a city that can change the way you think about world conflicts.

The impressive Peace Memorial Park shows how the human tragedy of the atomic bomb attack on the city has been transformed into a message of peace.

The Peace Memorial Museum is moving, while the outdoor space gives visitors the breathing room to reflect. There, the Children's Peace Monument is decorated with strings of thousands of paper cranes sent from schoolchildren around Japan and the world. The origami symbol of longevity and happiness is an ongoing living message of peace.

22. Discover your favorite ramen

Is it a bowl of noodles in a dashi broth topped with sliced roast pork, or is it a cult? Ramen is both. Evangelists insist that the best ramen is at nothing-fancy ramen-ya (ramen diners), which boomed after World War II.

Today you can slurp it your own way: shōyu (soy sauce) ramen, miso (soybean paste) ramen, Kitakata ramen (pork shōyu ), dipping ramen or, the most famous internationally, tonkotsu (pork bone) ramen.

A few ramen restaurants in Tokyo (where the fusion started) even hold a Michelin star: Nakiryu , Konjiki Hototogisu and Ginza Hachigo .

Each region has its own spin on the meal – from thin noodles in a clear soup (closer to its Chinese origins) to a thick ginger broth. Nearly all offer an optional side dish of gyōza (pork dumplings) and a heavenly gooey egg.

23. Surf and chill

Japan has a vibrant scene of two million surfers who know where to find turquoise waters and sparkling sand. Even if you can’t yet catch a wave, the best surf beaches in Japan have a chilled vibe that you can enjoy.

Learn to surf at one of the schools at Shirara-hama , which has year-round, easygoing breaks. Swells tend to be smaller in Japan (outside of typhoons), making it a great spot for newbies.

Ōkinohama in Shikoku is a surfer’s paradise. The jewel-like water is warm year-round and sees very few visitors.

Detour : Even if you are in Tokyo, the waves and summer beach shacks are just an hour away at Yuigahama Beach in Kamakura .

24. Fall in love with Mt Fuji

Outside of Tokyo, Mt Fuji seems to be everywhere you turn. More than Japan's loftiest mountain, Mt Fuji is a spiritual symbol that represents perfect beauty. Hiking its alien slopes takes the dedication of a Shinto pilgrim.

For easier admiration, make day trips to Hakone and the Fuji Five Lakes . Here, whether you see Mt Fuji from behind a frame of golden leaves, cherry blossoms and a shrine or even a konbini;  there is something bewitching about witnessing Fuji as it dominates the horizon.

This article was first published Sep 21, 2021 and updated Mar 23, 2024.

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The 15 BEST Places to Visit in Japan (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: January 27, 2024

From seeing a geisha show or walking the famous Fushimi Inari shrine in Kyoto to exploring the bustling metropolis of Tokyo or staring out at Mount Fuji, here’s our list of the best places to visit in Japan.

Japan is a close-knit island nation that is known for its beautiful cities, unique food, amusement parks, temples, shrines, hot springs, and more.

Hidden gems and beautiful palaces are scattered around the country, from tiny villages right up to the commercial areas in Japan, such as Hiroshima, Osaka or Tokyo.

Travellers flock to Japan to see the beauty of cherry blossom season, or to hike Mount Fuji, ski in the Japan Alps, eat delectable sushi, and more.

But there are lots of unexpected things to do in Japan as well.

Character or animal cafés, vending machines offering a vast array of items, and aquariums showcasing rare and unique marine life are just a few of the best and most interesting things you can view while in Japan.

Don’t travel to Japan without reading our ultimate travel guide!

Table of Contents

4) Yokohama

9) hiroshima, 12) fukuoka, 13) kanazawa, 15) okinawa, anything to add to this list of great places in japan, the best places to visit in japan.

Overall, there are so many must-see and must-experience places to visit in Japan due to the nation’s rich history, location, and culture.

If you’re planning a trip, make sure you use this list to make the most out of your travel to Japan.

Tokyo, the capitol of Japan, is obviously one of the best places to go in central Japan. While Kyoto is viewed as the spiritual center of Japan, Tokyo is seen as the most popular, busiest, and most significant city in the country, and there is no question why.

If you are wondering just what to do in Japan, it’s common knowledge that starting in Tokyo would have you covered as a perfect introduction to the country.

Of course, the city is largely commercialised and there are endless activities to do, especially if you are looking for UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

On a clear winter day it is even possible to have views of Mount Fuji in the distance!

It is important, however, to not forget the little things you can visit and explore – from simple and quiet parks to humble and interesting cafés or the occasional shrine or temple.

One unique place to visit in Tokyo would be Neko JaLaLa, a cat-themed cafe that offers more than your usual coffee destination in Tokyo.

There should be no question as to why Tokyo is famous and beloved for its several towers and overall interesting architecture. Buildings like the Tokyo Tower and the Tokyo Skytree should definitely be places on your travel list.

Both structures are known as Japan tourist spots and two of the best places to visit in Japan.

A trip to the Tokyo Tower offers a beautiful and breathtaking view.

The tower lights up beautifully and elegantly throughout the night, which is also a nice touch and a perfect photo scene.

The Tokyo Skytree offers several experiences throughout its tiers, aside from observation and obtaining a beautiful view.

If you are looking for a less-commercialised and more cultural Japan attraction that is located in Tokyo, the Kaneji Buddhist temple is one of the best things you can do.

Complete with intricately designed gardens, hallways, and statues, this temple is ideal for anyone looking for some relaxation time while in Tokyo.

Also consider taking a day trip to see Mount Fuji, the iconic symbol of Japan.

It doesn’t matter if your stay in Japan is for 48 hours or two weeks, visiting Tokyo is a Japan must-see.

READ MORE: Check out our complete guide to the best things to do in Tokyo .

Check out our Japan Vlog on going to a crazy robot restaurant in Tokyo in Japan.

Osaka is a port-based city that is full of interesting museums, attractions, and a fascinating variety of activities for any visitor to Japan.

No tour of the best places to visit in Japan would be complete without a trip to Osaka.

One thing to enjoy about this city is its versatile points of interest, and great opportunities for the Cherry Blossom season.

Whether it be the classic Osaka Castle or a fun amusement park such as Universal Studios Japan, Osaka really seems to have it all.

Dotonbori should ultimately be your first stop due to the influx of street food vendors, arcades, and shops.

After visiting the many wonderful fantasy worlds of Universal Studios Japan, you go go-karting around the streets.

Other popular attractions in Osaka are the beautiful and grand Tempozan Ferris Wheel, the peaceful Expo Commemoration Park, and the educational and intriguing Osaka Museum of History.

You haven’t completed Japan sightseeing until you’ve made your way to Osaka. And from here it is just a short train ride to the famous city of Kyoto.

READ MORE: Check out our detailed guide on the best things to do in Osaka .

If you are looking for elegant cherry blossoms, peaceful Buddhist temples or the occasional Shinto shrine, then Nara is the ideal travel location for you.

Just a short distance from either Kyoto or Osaka, Nara City is the capital of the Nara prefecture and is one of the most captivating and interesting places to visit in Japan.

Shrines surrounded by peaceful, well-kept canals and ponds are a popular sight. As are long the beautiful and friendly deer that roam freely throughout the prefecture – which are one of the most unique things to see in Japan.

It is apparent that Nara might truly be one of the most peaceful, down-to-earth cities in the world.

Nara Park is a central park located within the city that is full of deer that peacefully roam the park. They are a beautiful and adorable sight to visitors.

One staple of Nara would have to be the several palaces, temples, and Buddhist shrines. Todai-ji is a perfect example and is located right in the city of Nara.

This temple is one of the largest in the area, and plays a great role in its history.

Deer are frequently seen in surrounding areas around the temple, which is a nice touch.

By far, the greatest feature with Todai-ji, however, is the addition of the largest known bronze statue modelled after Buddha.

READ MORE: Here’s our ultimate list of things to do in Nara, Japan .

Yokohama is one of the more authentic places to visit in Japan if you would like a taste of Japanese culture, some history, and a tad bit of everything else.

One example of how Yokohama stands out against other popular cities and tourist spots in Japan would be the inclusion of Yokohama Chinatown.

Similar to Dotonbori, the Yokohama Chinatown area is ideal for those who love to experience street food as it is popularly offered and sold throughout the area.

If you are looking to take a quiet and enchanting walk, a stop at the Sankeien Garden in Yokohama couldn’t hurt as well.

A trip through this park can help relax you after a long day of exploring and visiting different streets and locations throughout the city.

The design of the garden is very traditional and reminiscent of older gardens and contains a beautiful pond surrounded by lush trees and shrubs.

One might enjoy viewing the Tempozan Ferris wheel light up at night. And Yokohama offers beautiful fireworks shows available during specific seasons.

Due to Yokohama being a port city for trading, these shows easily take place in Yokohama at the Yamashita Park, and are enjoyed greatly by both tourists and locals alike.

READ MORE: Here’s our brand new article featuring the best things to do in Yokohama .

As Okinawa is known for its glorious beaches, the small town of Hakone is known for the natural beauty of its mountainous terrain, waterways, and hot springs.

By far the most prominent and well-known attraction is Lake Ashi that makes Hakone one of the most fun places to visit in Japan.

The lake paired with other attractions makes Hakone one of the most beautiful and captivating cities to spend some time during your next vacation.

The picture-perfect and relaxing scenery also helps it make the list as one of Japan’s tourist spots. With views of Mount Fuji, Hakone is one of the best places to see and do it all.

Lake Ashi is surrounded by beautiful mountains, which help to compliment the glistening blue water.

The Hakone Open-Air Museum is also another great reason to visit Hakone, as it compliments the feel and aesthetic of the place due to the large collection of creative artwork.

READ MORE: Here’s our guide to the best things to do in Hakone !

The capital city of Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, is an absolute gem and one of the best cities on our list of Japanese tourist spots.

Whether it’s your first or fifth time to this fascinating country, make sure you spend some time in Sapporo, a metropolis that is buzzing with excitement and culture.

Whether you want to check out Japan’s biggest zoo or visit the marvelous winter snow festival, you’ll find no shortage of attractions here.

It’s also a great jumping-off point for exploring more of Hokkaido, so definitely use it as a base to plan your next moves.

READ MORE: Here’s our travel guide to the top things to do in Sapporo .

With destinations like the Nagoya TV Tower and the Nagoya Castle, this area can easily be compared to Osaka and Tokyo based on the famous and must-see landmarks.

There is even a museum dedicated to science: Nagoya City Science Museum.

This museum may sound a bit general. But its complex and interactive activities help engage and educate visitors and is home to what is known as the  world’s biggest planetarium  – making it a famous gem of Japan.

Perhaps the highlight of Nagoya and one of the best things to do is to tour the Nagoya TV Tower.

This tower consists of five floors and is a beautiful sight with its glowing appearance during the night.

The sky deck, which is at the topmost floor of the tower, offers a grand view of the city and famous mountains in the area.

The Nagoya Castle is the heart of Japan and another great symbol within the nation of Japan. You wouldn’t be able to miss this elegant structure in Nagoya.

This specific castle stems all the way from the Edo period and is lined with alluring Japanese artwork that is lit and brightened up greatly by the strategically placed windows and shading.

Be careful to not forget the entertainment halls and theatres, so you can enjoy a great concert or show while in Nagoya.

And if you’re looking for views of Mount Fuji then you can add this place to your list. Nagoya offers gorgeous views of the famous Mount Fuji!

READ MORE: Here’s our list of the best things to do in Nagoya .

While there is much to do on the island of Honshu, Kyoto is almost always at the top of the list of places to see in Japan.

Based on the prominent pagodas, the influx of cherry blossoms, and the rich history included, it is no wonder why Kyoto was once the capital of the great nation of Japan.

Due to the extravagant history Kyoto has throughout wars and harsh time periods, castles and unique Japanese structures have come to cover the region.

By  exploring Kyoto , you have the choice to learn about Japan, its people and its culture in a very motivating, intriguing, and interesting way.

Geishas are also a prominent entertainment force in Kyoto, making it one of the best places in Japan to view a show.

The Sento Imperial Palace is a peaceful palace that offers a tour that is free and is a fantastic way to discover and learn about Japanese palaces and history while exploring the area.

If you are looking to buy some authentic and quality Japanese goods, Kyoto should also be in mind. Many tourists buy keepsakes or tokens from their trip here, as shopping is fantastic.

The Kitano Tenman-Gu flea market is the perfect shop for this as it offers a wide range of products such as intricately designed fans, umbrellas, and yukatas.

Of course, no trip to Kyoto is complete without visiting Fushimi Inari, an important Shinto shrine known for its temple and the thousands of brightly coloured torii gate.

READ MORE: Don’t miss our complete guide to the best things to do in Kyoto !

Recent history hasn’t been kind to Hiroshima, a city that is most famous for having the atomic bomb dropped on it during World War II, completely decimating the city.

But for such a tragic event, Hiroshima has fully rebuilt itself, and today is one of the top selections for where to go in Japan. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is one of the top Japan tourist attractions.

The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, the main feature of Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, is one of the best known places in Japan. Memorializing a terrible event near the end of World War II, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the more sacred places to visit in the city.

Nearby Miyajima Island is a fantastic place to spend a day and definitely worth a visit. The Hiroshima Castle is sure to wow you as well.

In terms of unique sights and tourist attractions, the Itsukushima Shrine really stands out, literally, by rising out of the water.

Don’t let the idea of a crumpled city stop you from visiting – Hiroshima is truly an incredible spot to explore.

READ MORE: Check out our complete guide to the best things to do in Hiroshima.

When visiting Kobe, on the island of Honshu, trying their world-famous beef is a must. You can even have it along with Ramen or other traditional dishes.

Kobe could perhaps be the food destination highlight of your trip finding the best places to visit in Japan, aside from Dotonbori.

Another street to visit in Kobe would be their version of Chinatown, which offers another great opportunity to try street food.

The Kobe City Museum is also a great way to explore the great city of Kobe and its history.

Kobe’s most popular harbour known as the Kobe Harborland is the best outdoor hub for entertainment and shopping alike.

The harbour even boasts a beautiful Ferris wheel that adds a nice touch. If you are searching for a more scenic addition in Kobe, you must visit Mount Rokko. Although it pales in comparison to Mount Fuji, there are great trails and scenery to enjoy.

This landmark is favoured both by tourists and locals, and is unique in its structure when compared to various other mountains scattered throughout the great nation of Japan.

Kobe is also located near Himeji Castle, which in and of itself is a top location in Japan. Take a day trip from Kobe to the famous grounds of Himeji Castle!

READ MORE: Here’s our guide to all the top things to do in Kobe !

Otaru doesn’t always make the list of places to visit in Japan. But its canal scenery is so romantic it could even rival that of Italy.

Different vendors and stores offering a vast array of Japanese goods paired with various restaurants help to make the canal a must-stop destination.

Aside from the canal, be sure to enjoy a wonderful experience and performance at the Otaru Music Box.

The Otaru Aquarium can help finish off your trip with some educational facts and a great view of various marine life.

READ MORE: Check out our complete guide to the best things to do in Otar u

Fukuoka is a fantastic city on the Kyushu island of Japan, and well worth a visit on your next trip to Japan.

With great surfing opportunities, a fascinating samurai history and plenty of sumo wrestling matches to check out, you’ll be amazed at all the great  things to do in Fukuoka.

READ MORE: Here’s our guide to the top things to do in Japan

Kanazawa is located on Honshu Island and bordered by the Sea of Japan. Deriving its name from “marsh of gold” after legend claims a potato farmer dug up gold instead of potatoes in his field one year.

Kanazawa Castle is the city’s most notable feature and one of the best places to visit in the city. It stands tall among various other buildings that were surprisingly spared during bombings in WWII.

The original castle was destroyed in a fire in 1888. But the existing castle still stands after being rebuilt.

Kanazawa is also known for its Edo-period architecture, temples, geishas and cuisine. You can’t go wrong to add Kanazawa to your list of places to visit in Japan.

READ MORE: Check out our complete guide to the best things to do in Kanazawa.

Tohoku is located northeast of Tokyo on the island of Honshu. Very much off the beaten track for most travellers, Tohoku makes the list of best places to visit in Japan for its simplicity and relationship with nature.

Those who travel here know Tohoku for its spectacular coastlines, inviting natural hot springs and intricate cave systems. It is also a great place to see some of the best cherry blossoms in Japan – without all of the crowds you will find elsewhere.

And if you are into studying where modern history meets science, Tohoku is the jumping-off point for exploring the impact of the 2011 tsunami, most notable for it’s destruction of the Fukushima nuclear reactor.

No doubt if you are looking for a place where fewer travellers visit, particularly in spring, then you absolutely must add Tohoku to your list of places to visit in Japan!

Okinawa is Japan’s most tropical island and definitely one of the more unique places to visit in Japan. Surrounded by beautiful beaches and crystal blue ocean water, Okinawa City is a paradise for people of all ages.

A variety of restaurants are scattered all throughout the city, which is perfect if you plan to have dinner and see a show.

Koza Music Town is perfect for those looking for supreme entertainment and shows.

Besides Koza, Okinawa is simply just a paradise for music lovers due to the many different venues and shows that are offered, especially with the famous bars and clubs scattered about.

The Shurijo Castle is a must-see if you are visiting Okinawa. This palace was dedicated to the Ryukyu Kingdom, and boasts a bright red colour and an intricately paved red walkway leading up to the grand entrance of the castle.

If you’re looking for adventure on your next travels to Japan as well, then Okinawa is the place for you. This island is definitely where to go for surfing, scuba diving, kiteboarding and swimming with whale sharks!

READ MORE: Check out our complete guide to the best things to do in Okinawa .

In conclusion, Japan is a vast island nation that is known for its mountain scenery, unique architecture, cherry blossoms, and booming cities.

While travelling there are so many places to visit in Japan and experience on each island and in each city. But it is important to not overlook the small hidden gems in the rural Japan.

Sites and areas like small traditional villages and temples can really add to your overall experience. Whether you visit castles, Buddhist temples or Shinto shrines, enjoy a hot spring or two or come to see the natural beauty of cherry blossom season you understand why the island of Japan and its people are so special.

Aside from trying food in Dotonbori and shopping in the popular streets and stores in Tokyo, be sure to mark the small villages, historic sites, and grand areas for.

Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial, stroll beneath the torii gate of Fushimi Inari in Kyoto and find your favorite shrine or temple in any number of smaller villages and towns.

Do you have anywhere else you’d add to this list? Leave a comment below and let us know your favourite places to visit in Japan!

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Gabby Boucher

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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19 BEST Things to Do in Osaka, Japan [2024 Edition]

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20 epic things to do in okinawa, japan [2024 guide], the perfect yokohama day trip itinerary [2024 guide], how to plan your perfect hokkaido itinerary in 2024, the ultimate travel guide to oita, japan (2024 edition), 22 thoughts on “the 15 best places to visit in japan (2024 guide)”.

Yes I have read this article and very informative article.

Glad you liked the article 🙂

My Granddaughter dream is to go to Japan since she was 11 years old, May 2022 she will be 18 and graduating High School. I want to take her there as a gift to her, because her dream has not wavered, Problem is, I am limited on income and terrified to go to another country, where I know nothing of culture or the language, I understand it is very expensive. Could you give me advice on what we could do to make this memorable for her..without it draining my bank account and where a lot of people speak English. We are country people dont know to much of the outside world, so this will be a culture shock for us. I want to respect their values as well. Any advice will be much appreciated. Food, Places to stay, Sightseeing, cherry blossom, I am leaning on traveling April 4th 2022.

Hi Connie, What an amazing gift. An experience of a lifetime. I am originally from country WA and know exactly what you mean. Japan can be expensive but it also can be reasonable on the budget side. We have an article that has a lot of information that may help you out but I will add a few more tips in. Travel Guide – https://www.nomadasaurus.com/travel-guides/travel-to-japan/ (at the bottom of this article is lots of other Japan posts) Budget – https://www.nomadasaurus.com/budget-travel-in-japan/

There are a lot of people that speck English in the major cities. But menus will be in Japanese sometimes you will find English but the prices may be more expensive. We recommend downloading Japan to English google translate. This will help you out so much. If you are connected to the internet you can hover your camera over a menu and it will translate the writing to English. You can pick up an internet dongle from the airport and have wifi where ever you go for your stay. They can be expensive. Another option is buying an international SIM card. Just check your plan and that there is no extra costs. Your phones plans may charge you international roaming and this will be very expensive. Happened to me in Ireland when I first travelled, costs nearly $1000. I had no idea. Lucky they cut it down but it was a wake up. Transport – I would look into the JR pass. This is a great way to get around the country and you can use it on local transport within the cities too. The train system is incredible and so comfortable. Stops are in English so you can read where you need to get off and at what stop. https://www.jrailpass.com/maps Getting around cities – I would recommend hopping on a city tour or do a free walking tour to get your bearings and ask advice from the guides. The guides would be able to tell you get (and cheap) local restaurants to try. We try to do this in a lot of cities when we first arrive. Getting the public trains are easy enough to get around the cities. Put some maps on your phone or print out a map before you arrive. Food – There are so many amazing stalls. These are the best local food options. They look a little questionable but if it is busy with locals then go there. We ate at a lot of machine meals. This is when you enter the restaurant and choose a meal off a machine, collect your receipt, sit down and a person will collect your receipt and then deliver your meal. These places were great. Do not miss Kyoto and Nara. We really enjoyed these places. The temples, gardens, traditional houses and the culture. When we got off the plane in Japan we went straight to Kyoto and we were so happy we did. Explore Tokyo at the end of your trip. Hope this helps. If you have anymore questions please don’t hesitate to message us. Japan is an amazing country. The people there are so welcoming and helpful.

These are great places for tourism. I must say, your post is like my tour guide now. Thank you for sharing this post with us. Thanks.

Hi Franca, glad you liked the post. Japan has so many wonderful destinations. Have a wonderful trip when you go. Take care. 🙂

Japan has been on our travel bucket list for years now but already planning to visit next year so this gave me a good idea where to go apart from Tokyo and Osaka.

You need to go Julia. I think you would love it. There is so many amazing places to see. We didn’t spend much time in Tokyo and Osaka as we are not city people. We loved Kyoto for the culture. I know it is a city but it did not feel like it. Stay in Gion District if you go. Was amazing. We would get up early and wonder around. Felt like we were the only people there sometimes. Happy planning.

I’m planning a trip to Japan and your blog has been very helpful so far! The first time I was there I mostly went from big city to city, so this time I would like to try smaller towns and your description of Shirakawa makes it sound so lovely. The problem is that Google Maps is showing me two Shirakawa towns! Did you visit the one in Fukushima or in Gifu? Thanks!

Hi Jennifer, sorry about the late reply. This is in the Gifu Prefecture. Thank you for this. I will note it in the paragraph. 🙂

We are heading to Tokyo for the Olympics in July of next year and have a little more than three weeks in Japan with 9 days at the Summer Olympics. We have been to Tokyo and Kyoto before and did most all of the sites that one would, so the timing of this article was perfect as we were looking for more to explore outside of Tokyo and Kyoto next summer after the hustle and bustle during the Olympics. Thanks for giving us a great starting point with the overview of these prefectures. Much Aloha and Kokua for the insight

Hi Dan, so sorry your comment was missed. I know your plans are obviously are cancelled as the Olympics are postponed til next year. I hope you have rescheduled and are still going. If you have time do check out Nakatsugawa. It has a traditional trail. It is beautiful and not far from Tokyo. Check out Sado Island. The coastline and hiking is so beautiful. You can catch a flight down to Oita Island and explore this off the beaten path area. Lots of onsens and great hiking. You do need to rent a car to get around as transport is very limited. Have a great time when you go to Japan.

Truly your shared all these fabulous places are the best for travelling and tourists can enjoy some time with buddies. I also enjoyed myself while I was visiting this kind of places.

So glad you enjoyed your time in Japan. Thanks for reading. 🙂

Thanks for sharing such a beautiful article. It packed of all the information required for the first time visitors and information mentioned above in the article are more than enough gain knowledge about Japan. The article has surely helped me a lot. It would be great if the images of the all places mentioned above were there. Thumbs up for the effort.

Glad we could help. All the best

Thanks for sharing this information regarding travel and tour. I really found this very interesting. And your blog is very useful for us.

Thank you so much. Glad you found the article helpful. Happy travels

I have visiting a few cities in Japan on my bucket list. I shared the blog. The pics are awesome and I enjoyed reading the brief overview of the different cities. I get excited about everything from historical areas, to scenic, and most of all the food. Thanks for the recommendations of Dotonbori and Yokohama chinatown for popular street food.

Thank you so much David. Natalia wrote a great article and made us very jealous. Japan looks like a wonderful place. We are heading there later this year. We can not wait. 🙂

I really like to share your all these adorable images which views very fabulous and cool. I also spent a really good time at ONOMICHI during my last journey and came back with great memories.

Thank you so much. Glad the article brought back good memories for you. 🙂

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The Top 15 Destinations to Visit in Japan

There are so many fascinating cities and towns in Japan that it’s difficult to choose which one to visit. It’s a country with thousands of years of history and food culture, some of the best winter sports and diving in the world, and national parks featuring unusual and diverse landscapes. From northern Hokkaido down to the south in Okinawa, you’ve got sites worth making a trip for. Pick your base wisely and you might be able to visit more than one of these top destinations in Japan.

Matias Sanchez / Getty 

An easy day trip from Osaka or Kyoto, Nara is a compact city that feels like a step back in time. It was the first permanent capital of Japan and retains many of its historical shrines and temples. It’s often associated with the famous deer of Nara Park that bow to visitors and look for a delicious biscuit in return! From the park you can access Kasuga-Taisha Shrine—one of Japan’s most sacred sites—and Todaji Temple, home to the world’s largest bronze buddha.

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Kyoto is everything you hope it’ll be and more. You can see thousands of years of history by exploring temples like the Kinkaku-ji and historic sites such as Kyoto Imperial Palace. Visit some of Kyoto’s beautiful shrines, including Fushimi Inari, before catching a maiko show in Gion, the city's geisha district. Aside from history, Kyoto is also a modern city filled with izakayas, wine bars, and art museums. There's so much to do, be sure to plan a few days here.

Matteo Colombo/ Getty  

There are endless things to do in Tokyo , so get ready to dig in. The capital is as bustling, busy, and bright as you might expect—but there are also quieter neighborhoods where you can still find the Tokyo of old. Some of the highlights include Shibuya and Shinjuku, neon-soaked wards that promise nightlife, restaurants, and shops aplenty. Nearby, Tokyo’s public gardens like Shinjuku Gyo-en offer a peaceful respite. Within the city, you can enjoy theme parks like Disneyland and Disney Sea, or celebrate Japan's animated film legacy by checking out Studio Ghibli Museum.

Nikko National Park

A picture-perfect and highly spiritual destination, centuries-old Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines are surrounded by sweeping natural landscapes in Japan’s original national park. Some of the highlights include Toshu-gu, a lavish shrine and the final resting place of the first Tokugawa shogun, and the Buddhist temple Rinno-ji, founded in the eighth century. Don’t miss the Yomei-mon, also known as Sunset Gate, one of Japan’s national treasures featuring five hundred hand-carved figures. These exceptional sights are set within one hundred hectares of nature, where you’ll find waterfalls, over a dozen hot springs to sink into, and great lakes. One of the most iconic sights here is the red Shinkyo Bridge, which stretches across the Daiya-gawa River.

Amanohasidate

Westend 61/ Getty 

Most people head to Kyoto city and don’t get a chance to explore the wider prefecture—but Amanohashidate is one of the most impressive sites in the area. Head over to the coast to see the famous three-kilometer sandbar, classified as one of Japan’s most scenic views. There are many viewpoints to enjoy here; for the best, meander over to the cable car and head up for a birds-eye view.

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Head up to Hokkaido to visit one of Japan’s most famous ski resorts , which receives the lightest, driest snow in the region and borders the breathtaking Daisetsu-zan National Park. Not just a winter destination, Furnao is famous for its wine production; thanks to the expansive lavender fields that cover most of the region, wine infused with the herb is popular here. Combine that with beautiful, rolling hills, and you’d be forgiven for thinking you’d stepped into southern France.

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With over a hundred baths, this is one of Japan’s favorite onsen towns . Enjoy traditional Japanese accommodation by booking a stay at any one of the town's ryokan, some of which have been around since 1879. Each of the ryokan have their own private baths to relax in, with some offering special facilities including mud, sand, and steam baths.

But there's more to Beppu than bathing. Here, you can try unique food that’s been cooked in volcanic waters, making for interesting new flavors. Just 25 kilometers (about 16 miles) from Beppu you can reach Yufuin, a mountainous town that’s filled with boutique shops, cafés, and restaurants.

Yiming Chen/ Getty

Fukuoka is a perfect city for foodies and is considered one of the major culinary destinations in the country. Make sure to try Fukuoka’s famous Hakata ramen, a form of creamy tonkotsu ramen that has made waves locally and internationally. Head to Hakata yatai stalls where more than two hundred vendors serve up the tastiest dishes in intimate lantern-lit surroundings. This is a great city to enjoy the coast, with beaches, water sports, and nearby island adventures. Visit Shikanoshima for historic monuments and shrines, or Nokonoshima, famous for its seasonal flowers.

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A convenient trip from Tokyo and Mount Fuji, Hakone has a lot to offer for those who love mountain views, hot springs, tea houses, and romantic ryokan . Yunessun and Tenzan are two of the most popular hot springs, but there are plenty of onsen to enjoy as well, including novelty baths with wine, herbs, milk, or coffee. There are more than a dozen art museums here ranging from the quaint (like the Museum of Saint-Exupéry and The Little Prince) to expansive (like the Open Air Museum). There are plenty of walking options, including routes up The Great Boiling Valley, where you can try Hakone’s signature black eggs; there’s also a gondola up for an easier ride.

Kerama Shoto National Park

 Ippei Naoi/ Getty

There are about two dozen islands surrounding Okinawa, Japan's favorite vacation spot. The Kerama Islands, an archipelago of approximately 30 islands, are surrounded by healthy coral reefs and a diverse ecosystem that makes for perfect diving and snorkeling adventures. With pine forests, sheer cliffs, and mountains, the landscape offers an endless amount of photo spots and hiking options. Many of the islands are inhabited, so you’ll find hotels, restaurants, and tour agencies in this subtropical paradise.

Miyajima Island

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Off the coast of Hiroshima, Miyajima Island has long been regarded as one of the most scenic spots in Japan. It’s often associated with images of the torii gate of the sixth century Itsukushima Shrine; during low tide, you can walk up to the gate, but when the tide is high, it appears to float. There are many places to go hiking at Mount Misen, where you can get spectacular views of the city. The Daisho-in Temple complex sits at the foot of the mountain and is just one of the spiritual sites you can see on the island. Omotesando shopping street attracts those looking for local handmade crafts as well as street food lovers.

 Aladimirzakharov/Getty

There’s a lot to see in Hiroshima even though it’s often associated with the atomic bomb that fell on August 6, 1945. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Parks is a must-visit for this reason; here you’ll find museums, various monuments honoring those that died, and the A-Bomb Dome that survived the blast.

Hiroshima is also famous for its ramen, particularly the Onomichi style; make sure you seek out some of these tasty noodles loaded with flavor. For a different side to Hiroshima’s history, pay a visit to the beautiful Hiroshima Castle and grounds, just a 15-minute walk from the peace park.

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Often described as "Little Kyoto," Kanazawa largely escaped the bombings and so has retained most of its historic buildings and sites. Here you can explore preserved Edo-period, geisha, and samurai districts as well as winding streets and beautiful buildings. Take some time to wander the pedestrian street between Katsurazaka and Renchimon gates for regional crafts, restaurants, and cafés. Later, take a stroll through what’s considered one of Japan’s three best landscape gardens. With its varied flowers and foliage, Kenrokuen, established in the 18 th century, is lush in any season. Follow the paths to higher ground to get views over the garden and visit nearby Kanazawa castle.

 Suttipongs Sutiratanachai / Getty

Whether you see the majestic Mount Fuji from afar or climb to the top of this famous peak, there’s nothing quite like seeing one of the world’s most famous mountains for yourself. Climbing Mount Fuji was once considered a pilgrimage, and as you climb up, you can see shrines and monuments dating more than a hundred years. There are four routes you can take to the top, but the Yoshida Trail is one of the most popular.

You can even hop on a bus at Shinjuku in Tokyo to get halfway up the peak. If you just want to see the mountain, then take the bus to one of the small towns beneath it like Fuji Yoshida, or get a look at it from Lake Kawaguchiko .

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A UNESCO World natural heritage site, this island nature reserve features Japan’s oldest Yaku cedar trees, mossy wooden bridges, waterfalls, and streams. The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine inspired parts of the animated film Princess Mononoke , and it’s easy to imagine forest spirits hiding within the dense woodland. There are many hiking trails and routes to choose from of varying difficulty. For a view of the island and a bit of challenge, you can hike up Taiko rock and see the trees spread out below you.

If you're not into hiking, head to the coast of the island to enjoy the hot springs and the beaches where loggerhead turtles come to lay their eggs.

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Top 25 Popular Tourist Attractions in Japan

One of the most exciting parts when planning an international trip is deciding where to visit the country. We can help you complete your itinerary smoothly with a comprehensive list of the most popular tourist attractions that will never disappoint you. Here are the 25 best tourist attractions that we recommend in Japan! 

Check Out The Most Popular Tour in Tokyo This Month!

2. Shibuya Crossing

3. yokohama minatomirai, 4. nikko , 5. mt. fuji, 6. shirakawago, 7. snow monkey park, 8. osaka dotonbori, 9. kyoto (fushimi inari), 10. nara park, 11. miyajima, 12. okinawa, 13. animal islands , 14. naoshima, the art island , 15. yakushima , 16. ghibli locations , 17. gaming spots , 18. seto inland sea , 19. sanriku coast , 20. hida takayama , 21. nakasendo , 22. original castles , 23. big buddha statues , 24. unique theme parks , 25. onsen spots near tokyo , japan wonder travel tours , where to stay in japan, other articles you might like.

Sapporo is known as the largest city in Hokkaido with a population of about 2 million people. While it plays a role as a political and economic center, it also boasts a range of tourist attractions and popular spots which attract people from around the world. Sapporo Clock Tower is an iconic landmark with 130 years of history which is designated as a National Important Cultural Property. Goryokaku refers to a historical spot featuring a star-shaped fort located in a peaceful park known as a popular cherry blossom viewing spot in spring. Susukino is a lively drinking district that offers a range of entertaining experiences as well as a number of Izakaya bars. Sapporo Snow Festival is a symbolic annual festival held in February that fascinates visitors with incredible exhibitions of ice sculptures! Don’t forget to try fresh seafood and local specialties, including high-quality crabs and Sapporo Miso ramen!

To enjoy Sapporo to the fullest, take a guided tour! The guide will pick you up at your hotel and you can explore the downtown area with popular tourist spots, the central wholesale market, shrines, and parks! ▶ Book Hokkaido 1-Day Highlight Private Walking Tour

Located in the Shibuya area in Tokyo, Shibuya Crossing is widely known as the busiest crossing in the world. It consists of 5 crossroads that allow pedestrians to come and go in every direction of the crossing. At the busiest time of the day, more than 3,000 people are estimated to cross it at the same time without bumping into each other, which creates an incredible view! Shibuya Scramble Square is a giant shopping complex that features Shibuya Sky , a popular observation deck offering 360-degree views of the iconic crossing as well as the Shibuya district full of skyscrapers!

Yokohama Minatomirai refers to a popular sightseeing district in Kanagawa prefecture with a range of commercial complexes and entertaining spots. It plays a role as the economic and shopping center of Yokohama, the second-largest city in Japan by a population which is accessible in less than 30 minutes by train from Tokyo. Visit Yokohama Landmark Tower which offers a spectacular night view of Yokohama city from the observation deck at the elevation of 273 meters. Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse is home to numerous shops and restaurants selling a large variety of products and items perfect for a gift. Head to Cup Noodles Museum to learn the history of instant noodles which originated in Japan through interactive exhibitions. You can also attend noodle-making classes as well as pay extra to design your own noodle cups!  

Nikko is a peaceful city nestled in the northwestern part of Tochigi prefecture. From Tokyo, it can be reached in approximately 2 hours by train, making it a perfect weekend trip destination. It is home to Nikko Toshogu , a world-famous Shinto shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu. He was the first Shogun of Tokugawa Shogunate which once ruled the entire country for 260 years from the beginning of the 17th century. The original establishment of the shrine dates back to 1617, and it has been visited by numerous tourists as a symbolic structure listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site along with other historical sites in the Nikko area. You can explore the sacred shrine grounds full of magnificent buildings, including 8 National Treasure and 34 Important Cultural Properties. Kegon Falls is another popular spot that offers a refreshing experience in nature with impressive scenery created by the beautiful waterfall and surroundings!

In this tour, you can explore the must-visit spots in Nikko with a knowledgeable guide. Starting from Asakusa in Tokyo, the guide will take you to the World Heritage Site, Lake Chuzenji and Kegon Waterfall, and safely bring you back to Tokyo. If you are planning to make a one day trip to Nikko from Tokyo, book this tour! ▶ Book the Best Nikko Private Walking Tour here        

There is no doubt that Mt. Fuji is a must-visit place since it’s a symbolic mountain in Japan. Known as the highest mountain in Japan, it fascinates numerous visitors with its extraordinary beauty and presence. You can enjoy the symbolic peak from a distance, or tackle the exciting hiking trails which allow you to explore the surrounding nature. It also offers a variety of outdoor adventures such as kayaking or boat cruise at scenic lakes called Fuji Five Lakes (”Fujigoko” in Japanese) . BBQ and camping can be other options around there. Recommended: The Ultimate Guide to Japan’s Iconic Mt.Fuji

Winter is the best season to catch a glimpse of the snow-capped mountain and also it is said January and February is the best time to see Mt.Fuji with a clear view. Read 12 Recommended Places to See the Best View of Mt.Fuji for the reason and the best viewing spots.

If you are looking for a guided tour around Mt. Fuji, check out our Mt. Fuji Day Trip Bus Tour from Tokyo! Departing from Shinjuku, you can travel comfortably to the Mt. Fuji area by bus and explore the highlights including Chureito Pagoda, Aokigahara Forest, and more.

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Shirakawago attracts people around the globe despite age or nationality. The beautiful village is nestled in a peaceful mountainous area in Gifu prefecture . What makes it a world-famous place is the stunning scenery created by traditional Japanese houses called Gassho-zukuri. It features a unique architectural style such as a steep thatched roof which protects the house from heavy snowfall in winter. Exploring the beautiful village also allows you to take a glimpse of the local community that has preserved the impressive scenery and traditional lifestyle for centuries! Winter changes the peaceful village into a white world completely covered with snow!

Have you ever imagined wild monkeys bathing in a hot spring? It may sound unreal, but actually does exist as a world-famous tourist attraction in Japan! Snow Monkey Park is a unique nature park which has suddenly become famous when it was featured in Life , the American magazine. Visitors can watch wild monkeys move around freely in a great natural environment. Nestled at the elevation of 850 meters, the park is covered with snow when the temperature drops during a long winter season. The severe weather encourages monkeys to soak in a natural hot spring bath to warm up their body, which attracts numerous international tourists every year.

Known as the second largest city in Japan, Osaka awaits you with a lively atmosphere unique to the Kansai region which is completely different from what you can experience in Tokyo! Dotonbori refers to a vibrant downtown district with numerous shops, restaurants, Izakaya bars, entertaining spots and much more! Walking around the area will easily deprive you a couple of hours with too many things to do and see. Ebisubashi is a symbolic bridge over Dotonbori canal which is a perfect spot to take memorable photos with a giant signboard known as Guriko Sign . Try local specialties such as Takoyaki and Okonomiyaki . Enjoy a memorable nightlife at Izakaya bars offering high-quality Japanese sake and a variety of dishes!   ▼Join our Osaka Highlights Private Walking Tour including Dotonbori Street, Hozenjiyokocho Backstreet, Osaka Castle, Kuromon Market, and more

Kyoto never stops fascinating visitors with the extraordinary townscape with beautiful shrines and temples. It used to be an ancient capital of Japan until Tokyo took over its place and became the largest center of economy and politics. Walking around the scenic town will take you to world-famous historic sites such as Arashiyama , a peaceful area known for the stunning bamboo grove. Kiyomizudera is a sacred Buddhist temple designated as UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994. 

Another highlight you should not miss is Fushimi Inari a Shinto shrine situated at the base of Mt. Inari. The scenic shrine is visited by numerous tourists from around the world as the most popular tourist attraction in Kyoto. It welcomes visitors with Senbon-torii (千本鳥居) , which literally refers to a thousand red Torii gates creating stunning scenery. Visiting there in the early morning will enable you to take stunning pictures of beautiful Tori gates without crowds. It is also a perfect hiking spot that allows you to explore the mysterious and sacred shrine grounds while feeling the refreshing air.   

Popular tours in Kyoto to discover hidden stories and spots in the town ▼Kyoto Private Tour (Customizable)

▼Kyoto Food and Drink Tour at Nishiki Street & Gion

▼Kyoto Maiko & Geisha Performance and Cultural Walking Tour in Gion

It is about a 50 minutes train ride from Kyoto to reach Nara , which is known as another historic city. It is home to numerous historical spots such as Todaiji , a symbolic Buddhist temple established by the emperor Shomu in the early 8th century. Nara offers not only traditional temples and historical sites but more! Nara Park is a vast park which opened in 1880. It covers approximately 502ha with a number of popular historic sites such as Todaiji, Kofukuji and Nara National Museum around. Nara Park is also known as Deer Park since over 1,000 deer actually live in the park! You can buy some deer crackers to feed them and some deer even bow to you to get a cracker! But be careful, these deer are usually tame and friendly but can be aggressive sometimes. Nara Park is also known as a popular cherry blossom viewing spot which is filled with stunningly beautiful pink flowers in spring! ▼Book our Private Walking Tour in Nara

Miyajima is a scenic island which belongs to Hatsukaichi city in Hiroshima prefecture. It can be reached by regular ferry service from Miyajima-guchi pier which takes passengers to the scenic spot on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. As you take the first step into the island, you will be welcomed by friendly deer living there. But unlike deer in Nara Park, it is strictly prohibited to feed them. Itsukushima Shrine is an iconic Shinto shrine which was originally established in 1168. It is also widely famous for the floating Torii gate, which refers to the symbolic giant Torii gate standing in the water. The breathtaking scenery created by the contrast of blue ocean and blight red Tori gate attracts tourists from around the world! Don’t forget to try local specialties such as Okonomiyaki and fresh oysters at restaurants!     ▼Book our Hiroshima Private Tour

If you are planning a long trip in Japan, head to Okinawa to make the most of your time! You can take direct flights from domestic airports such as Narita , Kansai International Airport and Chubu Centrair to reach the southernmost prefecture consisting of numerous remote islands. The emerald-green ocean and sandy white beaches allow you to discover the beauty of untouched nature through a range of guided tours for marine activities such as sea kayaking and snorkeling. Naha is a prefectural capital which boasts popular tourist attractions such as a remain of Shurijo Castle and Kokusaidori street which is a perfect shopping hub.  

Miyakojima is one of the remote islands that belong to Okinawa. Take a relaxing stroll at Maehama beach while feeling the comfortable sea breeze. You can also rent a car and drive across Irabu Ohashi Bridge which boasts a length of 3,540 meters, making it the largest free bridge in Japan!  

Japan features some animal islands where visitors can see wild animals inhabited among people or on uninhabited islands. Cat islands, rabbit islands, sheep islands and monkey island etc., there are a variety of animal islands in Japan. Tashiro Island in Miyagi prefecture is known as a cat island where over 100 cats live while only about 60 people live there. There is even a shrine dedicated to cats on the island! Okuno Island in the Seto Inland Sea is a so-called rabbit island where over 900 wild rabbits inhabit having its dark history. The island itself was used to develop gas weapons during the war and hid from the map. The combination of interesting history and adorable rabbits attract many tourists in and outside of Japan.  To find which animal islands you can visit, read our article; 10 must-visit animal islands that will surprise you in Japan  

Naoshima , located in the Seto Inland Sea which is also known as the art island, is getting popular among the tourists. With beautiful ocean views and colorful artworks displayed open-air around the island, Naoshima became the center of Japan’s showcase of contemporary arts. There are many galleries and museums that you can visit, the old and new architectures will satisfy all the art lovers. Most iconic artworks are red and yellow pumpkins by a famous Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama. Red Pumpkin is located near the Miyanoura Port, so most likely the first thing you will see on the island is this. Yellow pumpkin is only 10 minutes away by bus. Rent a bicycle or car if you want to travel around Naoshima in a day! 

Yakushima is an island in Kyushu , about 90% of the island is covered by mountainous areas and forests, which makes it a very popular spot for hiking. It’s also known as the difficult hikes which takes 9 hours to complete in a round trip, but you can choose hiking courses depending on your level. The easiest one is only 30 minutes long which is suitable for children and beginners. Yakushima offers breathtaking beauty in nature which takes you away from the hustle and bustle in the city.  Recommended: 3 Best Yakushima Hiking Trails for First-Timers

There are some places that are said to be the models of famous Ghibli spots in Japan. Yakushima is one of them, it is said to serve as an inspiration for Princess Mononoke. Other Ghibli locations in Japan are Dogo Onsen in Ehime prefecture where you can see the hot spring bathhouse which looks like a bathhouse from the film!

In this article with 10 Ghibli movie locations you can visit in Japan , you can find actual locations of My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, Ponyo and so on comparing the actual places and movie scenes. 

Gaming culture is something that Japan is proud of.  With unique Otaku (geek or nerd) culture , you can enjoy some gaming related spots especially in Tokyo. Akihabara is known as the Otaku town featuring a variety of game shops and arcade game centers, as well as Nakano . If you have been enjoying Japanese games, visit real-life video game locations . You will be surprised how accurate they draw in the game! 

Surprisingly, there are 727 islands in the Seto Inland Sea . These islands lie between the Japanese main islands of Honshu, Shikoku and Kyushu. Its mild climate and relaxing atmosphere often compare with Mediterranean islands. One of the best ways to enjoy the stunning islands in Seto Inland Sea is cycling on Shimanami Kaido which is a cycling trail that connects Ehime prefecture and Hiroshima prefecture. 

Sanriku Coast stretches from southern Aomori prefecture through Iwate prefecture in the Tohoku region . The beautiful coastline creates scenic ocean views with cliffs and rock formations. In 2011, the tragic disaster hit the area with a huge earthquake and tsunami and you can visit the memorial museums to learn about the disaster. Still many efforts will be needed to reconstruct the area but beautiful sceneries remind us of the power of nature at the same time while appreciating its beauty. Just enjoying the area is also fine, but it’ll be more meaningful if you can take some time to think of the lesson learned from the past which local people try to pass down to the next generations. 

Hida Takayama is located in the mountainous area in Gifu prefecture. If you are interested in history and nature, you will love it there! Traditional merchant houses, restaurants and shops which date back to the Edo period are lined at the old Sanmachi Suji district which is one of the iconic places in the Hida Takayama area. If you have seen a Japanese animated film called Your Name , the film took place around this area. Also Hida Beef is a very known wagyu from Hida Takayama, you can easily find grilled beef skewers and beef sushi on the street. Don’t forget to try some! 

Nakasendo is an old trail which connects between Edo (old Tokyo) and Kyoto which was prosper during the Edo period. Today, it’s a popular hiking trail to enjoy traditional buildings and mountains. Magome and Tsumago are especially popular for both sightseeing and hiking spots in the Nakasendo trail. They are the old post towns situated in the mountains where still many historical houses are preserved. You can enjoy 3 to 4 hours hiking between these two towns. The route is combined with gentle slopes and sudden uphill, special hiking gears are not necessary but if you are worried, you can also take a bus or drive a car between the towns! 

Japan used to have over 25,000 castles but as time passes with wars, natural disasters and the movement of modernization, there are only 12 original castles left. Original castles mean having a castle tower (main keep) which was built during the Edo period or earlier. Probably the most popular castle for tourists is Himeji Castle in Hyogo prefecture. This beautiful white castle is often referred to as Shirasagi-jo, meaning White Heron. It is registered as UNESCO World Heritage Sites . Of course other castles have their own unique appearance and beauty, the towns around the castles are also attractive with some historical sites and traditional shops. 

Kamakura Daibutsu and Nara Daibutsu are the most famous big buddha statues in Japan, but actually there are more stunning buddha statues that you can visit. Ushiku Daibutsu in Ibaraki prefecture is the tallest Buddha statue which is twice as big as the Statue of Liberty in New York. Hill of the Buddha in Hokkaido is a photogenic spot which was designed by a popular Japanese architect Tadao Ando . But you think the Buddha statues are all the same? Actually when you look carefully, each Buddha statue has completely different faces! 

Recommended: 10 Famous Buddha Statues in Japan

Not only beautiful nature and historical sites, but Japan is popular for its unique theme parks as well. Tokyo Disney Resorts and Universal Studio Japan are the top theme parks, but there are theme parks which recreated the townscape of foreign countries such as Huis Ten Bosch which is modeled after Netherland and Tokyo German Village. 

Seemingly Japanese people have quite a passion toward onsen, you can enjoy onsen all year round, days and nights, with some great benefits for your body. You can’t complete your Japan trip without experiencing unique bathing culture here. Onsen spots near Tokyo are also popular tourist attractions especially Kusatsu Onsen in Gunma prefecture. Read our article about how to take a Japanese onsen since there are things to know including manners before you go! 

Japan Wonder Travel is a travel agency that offers guided tours throughout Japan.  From private walking tours to delicious Food and Drink tours, we can help you organize the best tours just for you! If you want to explore Japan and learn more about the history and backstories of each area you are visiting, our knowledgeable and friendly English speaking guides will happily take you to the best spots!  In addition, we can provide you with any assistance you may need for your upcoming trip to Japan, so please feel free to contact us if you have any questions or need some help! 

▶ Tokyo Tsukiji Fish Market Food and Drink Tour Explore the most lively and popular fish market in Tokyo and try some of the local’s favorite street foods and sake with one of our friendly and knowledgeable English speaking guides! 

▶ Tokyo 1–Day Highlights Private Walking Tour (8 Hours) There’s no better way to explore an area than taking a tour with a knowledgeable local guide. You will have the chance to learn about the history and interesting background stories of Tokyo, as well as discover some hidden gems which can be hard to do without a guide.

▶ Mt. Fuji Day Trip Bus Tour from Tokyo Experience the breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji by visiting the highlights of the area on our guided sightseeing bus tour! Departing from Shinjuku in central Tokyo, you can travel comfortably to all of the best spots in the area by bus.

▶ Kyoto Private Full Day Walking Tour On this full-day private tour of Kyoto, you will be able to see the highlights of Kyoto in just one day and at the same time develop a deeper understanding of both the culture of the area and Japan as a whole.

Kimono Rental is Available at Popular Tourist Attractions in Japan! Discover Japan with a traditional Kimono from Kimono Rental Wargo! Explore cities or join festivals effortlessly starting from just ¥3,300. Our shops are conveniently located in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Kawagoe, and Kanazawa. Elevate your adventures with the elegance of the kimono and create unforgettable memories in Japan!

Japan awaits you with a range of memorable experiences that can be found at great tourist spots across the country. Immerse yourself in the scenic nature spots as well as historical sites surviving for centuries. It will make your once in a life time experience in Japan!

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17 Best Places to Visit in Japan

By Becky Griswold · Last updated on June 21, 2024

Japan is quickly becoming one of the top travel destinations in the world. More and more people are traveling to the island nation every year, lured by the promise of fresh sushi, amazing train rides, safe cities, intriguing traditions, and quirky pop culture. But there’s more to Japan than cat and robot cafes; its many islands are surprisingly easy to travel around and well connected by railways, ferries and bus services.

Japan is a warm, welcoming and endlessly interesting travel destination with something for everyone. Learn about Ainu culture in the cold, snow-coated northern island of Hokkaido and discover the often forgotten Ryukyu culture in the tropical islands of Okinawa.

Some of the most popular places to visit in Japan can be found in the Edo capital of Kyoto with its ancient wonders. Embark on temple pilgrimages in Shikoku, explore the peaceful streets of Hiroshima or get lost in the never-ending glittering delights in the buzzing streets of Tokyo.

17. Kinosaki Onsen

Famed for its fabulous hot springs, Kinosaki has been a popular onsen town since the eighth century. Set just inland from the Sea of Japan, its numerous bathhouses and traditional inns lie in the Kansai region of south-central Honshu.

Now considered to be part of the city of Toyooka, the small town is bisected by a lovely willow-lined canal, while the Maruyama River passes nearby on its way to the sea. In total, there are seven public onsen bathhouses for visitors to try out; their warm waters are reputed to have healing properties. With elaborate interiors, fine architecture, and pretty gardens, the hot springs are the main reason that people visit Kinosaki.

Staying in a ryokan is a quintessential part of this experience, and lots of the traditional inns can be found around town. In addition, Kinosaki also has lots of shops, cafes and restaurants that sell local handicrafts and tasty delicacies with the town being mainly known for its fresh seafood.

16. Naoshima

Surrounded by the sparkling waters of the Seto Inland Sea, the idyllic island of Naoshima lies between the main Japanese islands of Honshu and Shikoku. Due to its lovely scenery, fantastic contemporary art museums, and numerous outdoor sculptures , it is a very popular tourist destination.

Before being chosen as the location for the Benesse Art Site in the late 80s, Naoshima was home to a dwindling fishing community. The Benesse corporation based in nearby Okayama then set up some world-class art galleries , such as the Chichu Art Museum and Benesse House Museum. Set amid some sublime scenery, these exhibit some exquisite architecture and house important art collections, while innovative outdoor installations are also scattered around the island.

While there is not all that much to do in the town of the same name, Naoshima certainly has enough arresting art, architecture, and scenery to keep visitors entertained. Thanks to the Benesse project’s success, art museums and installations have also popped up on the other islands lying nearby.

15. Shirakawa-go and Gokayama

Lying amid majestic mountains with sweeping valleys and verdant forests all around, Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama are two of the prettiest villages in the whole of Japan. Famed for their spectacular settings and traditional thatched-roof farmhouses, they count among central Honshu’s most popular tourist attractions.

While this means they can get quite crowded, particularly during Golden Week and the cherry blossom season , the villages really are a treat to visit. This is because the distinctive gassho-zukuri buildings that look so stunning surrounded by fertile farmland and magnificent nature lend them a very charming, peaceful and rustic feel.

Besides taking in the incredible scenery and historic farmhouses, visitors can check out the Jim Homura Art Museum, buy some local handicrafts, and stay in a traditional ryokan inn . In addition to this, the mountains and forests surrounding Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama are home to scenic hiking trails, twinkling waterfalls, and breathtaking viewpoints.

Lying at the heart of one of the most populated metropolitan areas in the world, Osaka is set on the shores of Osaka Bay and is surrounded by more than ten satellite cities. The sprawling metropolis is the third-largest in Japan and has long been a major economic hub and important financial center.

While its endless concrete jungle is not all that pretty to look at, Osaka is considered the best place to eat, drink and party in Japan. Much of its nightlife is centered around the neon-lit Dotonbori district , which boasts plenty of restaurants, bars, and entertainment options. For shopping, Shinsaibashi is the place to go; endless department stores, boutiques, and malls line the covered shopping street.

Although most people visit for its thriving culinary scene and nightlife, Osaka does have some interesting historical sights and landmarks that are worth checking out.

Its reconstructed castle , for instance, lies in a lovely park in the city center, while the Umeda Sky Building and Tsutenkaku tower count among its most recognizable sights. In addition, it boasts Sumiyoshi Shrine and Shitennoji Temple – two of the oldest religious sites in Japan.

13. Kiso Valley

Once part of the historic Nakasendo trade route connecting Kyoto to Edo (present-day Tokyo), Kiso Valley is home to several charming old post stations as well as lovely scenery. Coated in thick forest and surrounded by steep mountains, the valley is centered around the Kiso River and lies in Nagano Prefecture in Central Japan.

Due to its well-preserved historical sights and dramatic mountain scenery , the valley is now a very popular tourist destination. One of its most famous and scenic stretches lies between the two Edo period post towns of Magome and Tsumago; many people choose to hike from one to the other. After strolling through verdant forests and crossing bubbling streams, there are plenty of atmospheric old buildings for you to take in and cozy ryokans for you to stay at.

Kiso Valley also has the charming post town of Nagai for visitors to check out, as well as delightful hiking trails that weave through the surrounding landscape.

12. Koya-san

Located just to the south of Osaka in Wakayama Prefecture, Koya-san is primarily known as being the center of Shingon Buddhism . Edged by eight prominent peaks, the gorgeous mount is home to an abundance of temples, shrines and pagodas, as well as pristine nature and scenery.

First settled all the way back in 819 CE, the original monastery has since grown to include over 120 temples. Of these, Kongobu-ji , the head temple, is undoubtedly the most important and impressive with its centuries-old ceremonial halls, traditional buildings, and idyllic rock garden . Konpon Daito is also worth visiting for its lovely pagoda – as is the large and atmospheric graveyard of Okunoin.

While many people visit Koya-san as a day trip from Osaka , staying over and sleeping in one of the temples is an amazing way to experience monastic life on the mount. Besides visiting its numerous sacred sites and historic temples and shrines, there are loads of wonderful hikes you can do around the surrounding mountains and forests.

11. Ishigaki

Located west of Okinawa, Ishigaki is Japan’s premier beach destination and makes a good base to explore the other islands in the Yaeyama archipelago . Blessed with Japan’s best beaches , it is particularly popular with families since the beaches at Fusaki and Maezato are net-protected.

Located 1,250 miles (2,000 kilometers) south of Tokyo, Ishigaki may not have the shrines and temples that other Japanese cities have, but it does have an exuberant nightlife for visitors who have the energy after a day of beachcombing, water sports or climbing Mount Nosoko.

10. Miyajima

One of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, the small island of Miyajima lies in the northwest of Hiroshima Bay , surrounded by the Seto Inland Sea. Besides boasting one of the famed ‘Three Views of Japan,’ it is also home to some lovely scenery and a number of temples and shrines.

Miyajima – or ‘Shrine Island’ – is just the popular nickname for the island of Itsukushima, which has long been considered a holy place. Dominating its interior are the scenic and sacred slopes of Mount Misen , where you can find various Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines, and a fantastic five-story pagoda. Its gentle hills and lush forests make for some excellent hiking, and you’ll often come across tame deer wandering freely around the island.

Miyajima’s main attraction, however, is the ‘floating’ torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine that lies just off its shores. One of the most renowned and recognizable sights in Japan, it makes for some fabulous photos and attracts hordes of tourists every year.

9. Kanazawa

Located in the northwest of Ishikawa Prefecture, the historic city of Kanazawa lies between the wild waters of the Sea of Japan and the towering Japanese Alps. Long overlooked due to its remote setting, it is an increasingly popular destination and boasts a rich history, culture and heritage.

In the center of the city, you can find a fantastic centuries-old castle to explore, as well as charming and well-preserved samurai and geisha districts. Their narrow alleys are lined by traditional houses, cosy tea shops, and a number of atmospheric temples and shrines. Kanazawa is also home to some great museums and the busy Omicho Market, renowned for its fresh seafood.

Its most famous attraction is the lovingly landscaped Kenroku-en, which is considered to be one of the most beautiful gardens in Japan. Wonderful to visit at any time of year, it is home to a huge variety of trees and plants, with scenic ponds, bridges, and stone lanterns on display.

8. Hiroshima

Hiroshima, located on Honshu Island, is younger than many Japanese cities, less than 500 years old, but its fate was forever sealed in history on August 6, 1945, when it became the first city in the world to have an atomic bomb dropped on it.

Although more than 60 percent of the buildings in Hiroshima were destroyed, the city has managed to make an amazing recovery since that devastating blast. In fact, by 1974, the city had actually managed to double its pre-war population, and it has also become a popular tourist destination.

One of the most popular attractions in this city is the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, which was created in memory of all those who lost their lives or were injured by the atomic bomb. This large park is home to several interesting sites, including the Peace Memorial Museum where visitors can see the effect the bomb had on the citizens of Hiroshima.

Another must-see tourist site is the great Torii , a wooden shrine gateway that appears to be floating in the sea at high tide. The Torii is located on nearby Miyajima Island.

7. Kamakura

Set on the scenic shores of Sagami Bay, with forest-coated hills surrounding it, Kamakura is a top-rated destination and lies just an hour-long train ride to the south of Tokyo . As it was once the capital of Japan, the coastal city is home to many important landmarks and a plethora of beautiful temples and shrines.

Its defining symbol and most famous sight is the Great Buddha of Kamakura , which is 13.35 meters high. Made out of bronze, the mighty figure towers over its surroundings and is one of the city’s most famed and photographed attractions. The large Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine also attracts crowds of visitors, as do the pretty and peaceful zen temples of Kenchoji and Engakuji.

While Kamakura certainly has a lot of interesting historical and cultural sights on offer, the center of the city also boasts lots of fantastic shops and eateries. Many people also come to go hiking amidst its stunning nature or to enjoy sunbathing, swimming or surfing at one of its beautiful beaches.

Located at the entrance to Nikko National Park , Nikko is set in a spectacular spot amid the mountains, with lush forests lying around it. Besides being famed for its scenery, the city boasts a wealth of important Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples and is located in Tochigi Prefecture.

Impressively, Nikko is home to two mausoleums of Tokugawa Shoguns ; these can be found at the extensive and extravagant Tosho-gu complex. Surrounded by towering cedars, the site showcases wonderful Edo-era architecture, with countless shrines, temples, and pagodas.

While the complex is undoubtedly Nikko’s main attraction , two of its most famous and photographed sights are the centuries-old Shinkyo Bridge and twinkling Kegon Falls, both of which are rightfully lauded for their beauty.

In addition to this, many people visit Nikko for the lovely nature and scenery surrounding it. Tucked away among its endless mountains and forests, you can find sparkling waterfalls and lakes , as well as bubbling streams and boiling hot springs. Very easy to visit from Tokyo, all of Nikko’s historical, cultural, and scenic sights lie just a two-hour train journey from the nation’s capital.

5. Takayama

Nestled away among the northern Japanese Alps of Central Honshu, the small city of Takayama is a very picturesque place. Famed for its traditional townscape, stunning riverside setting, and unique culture and customs, it is fast becoming one of the region’s most popular attractions .

In its well-preserved historic quarter, visitors can find lots of exquisite architecture dating to the Edo period , as well as little sake breweries, boutiques, and fantastic old merchants’ homes. Shrines, temples and museums abound in Takayama, while numerous morning markets can be found near to the river.

At the Hida Folk Village , you can watch artisans make local handicrafts and wander around a recreated mountain village, full of traditional thatched-roof farmhouses.

Due to its isolated setting, Takayama developed its own rich culture and traditions, as evidenced by the two famous festivals of Sanno Matsuri and Yahata Matsuri. During the festivities, large and lavishly decorated floats parade through the city, which is magically lit up by lanterns. Many people visit during the festivals for the lively ambience and atmosphere.

Boasting beautiful mountain scenery, relaxing hot springs, and a number of world-class art museums, Hakone is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan. Located just a short train ride to the southwest of Tokyo, the town lies on the shores of tranquil Lake Ashi, with the iconic Mount Fuji rising in the distance.

A pleasant and picturesque place, Hakone is home to many lonsens and ryokans, so visiting one of the bathhouses and staying in a traditional inn is a must when in town. In addition, exquisite sculptures and artworks can be found in its numerous galleries and museums, while small shops and boutiques sell locally made handicrafts.

One of the most popular things to do is take a boat ride on one of the pirate ships that sail around Lake Ashi . From aboard their decks, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the lake’s stunning scenery and majestic Mount Fuji in the distance.

While Hakone can get quite crowded, especially during weekends and holidays, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park has loads of peaceful hiking trails for you to explore if you want to escape the crowds.

Nara, once known as Heijo, was the first permanent capital of Japan, established in 710. The capital was moved to Nagaoka in 784 when the government was threatened by powerful Buddhist monasteries. Located less than an hour from Kyoto , the city boasts a plethora of important and impressive historic sights, with countless temples and shrines.

Most of its main attractions can be found in the gorgeous, green Nara Park , also home to the city’s multitude of tame deer that amble about asking tourists for food. Here you’ll find the multi-storey pagodas of Kofuku-ji and splendid stone lanterns of Kasuga Taisha, as well as a couple of lovingly landscaped Japanese gardens.

The highlight, however, is Todai-ji Temple with its awe-inspiring architecture and enormous Great Buddha.

Besides its plethora of well-preserved historic buildings , Nara has a couple of excellent museums for visitors to check out, as well as the charming old merchant district of Naramachi. With so much history, art, and architecture on show, the former capital is certainly not to be missed out on.

Kyoto today is the capital only of Kyoto prefecture, but it once served as the imperial capital of Japan for more than 1,000 years. If you’re interested in catching a glimpse of old Japan , Kyoto should definitely be on your itinerary.

Because of its historical significance, this city was largely spared much of the destructive bombing that occurred throughout the rest of Japan during World War II.

Located on central Honshu Island, this city of 1.5 million people, also boasts more than 1,000 temples and shrines, including one of the most photographed, the Golden Pavilion . In addition to the large number of religious structures, Kyoto is home to gorgeous Nijo Castle , the former residence of the Tokugawa shoguns.

Higashiyama, a well-preserved historic district and Gion, Kyoto’s famous geisha district are also must-visit attractions . But Kyoto is not just about history, this city also boasts a world-class aquarium and for fun, you can learn how to become a Japanese assassin at the Ninja Training Dojo.

Travelers who like to mingle with people will love Tokyo. The Japanese capital’s metropolitan area is the most populous in the world. From viewing spring cherry blossoms in traditional gardens to the fish market at Tuskiji. Tokyo blends the ancient with the new, from shrines to karaoke bars.

It’s hard to be bored in frenetic, fast-paced Tokyo where even a walk down the streets can be interesting. This city’s Shibuya intersection , for example, is famous for its controlled mob crossing. Another interesting neighborhood in Tokyo is Harajuku, known throughout the world for its amazing street fashion, including but definitely not limited to goth-Lolitas, punk or kawaii schoolgirls.

Tokyo is also home to several world-class museums and numerous shrines, including the most famous, the Meiji Shrine, and Sensoji Temple, one of its oldest.

Then there is the Tsukiji Fish Market . In most cities, a fish market wouldn’t be a tourist attraction, but this is the world’s busiest and largest, and it also happens to be on the itinerary of just about every visitor to Tokyo. Plus, it is one of the best places on the planet to get extremely fresh sushi. One caveat, because you’ll be visiting the fish market early in the morning, you’ll be having your sushi for breakfast.

Other interesting attractions in Tokyo include the Imperial Palace, the residence of the emperor, and Tokyo Tower. Fortunately, getting around Tokyo is easy as this city boasts a large and relatively easy-to-use transit system. If you have the time, you’ll definitely want to consider taking a day trip to beautiful Mount Fuji.

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Reader interactions.

July 31, 2019 at 7:26 pm

The article helped me a lot to gain information about the places. The map marked with the places from article made the work easy to know about the locations. Where to stay option was unique and will surely help while visiting there. Thank you for this amazing article.

June 1, 2018 at 12:48 pm

Hiroshima, but not Miyajima?

March 20, 2017 at 7:52 am

List is really fascinating, How much time would be needed to visit all the above mentioned places. planning a visit in november this year.

June 17, 2016 at 8:29 am

Been to Kyoto, Nara, Kamakura and Tokyo in the list. Really really love how you guys have ranked the top 10 by “areas” because most other websites ranks by “attractions” which really frustrates me.

I’ve been to Japan twice and I already visited the popular ones that people usually goes to like Osaka, Mt Fuji and Nagoya. I’m planning a third trip with the intention of visiting other areas like Takayama and Kanazawa but it’s really hard to find websites introducing the less visited areas. So REALLY REALLY LIKE how the less visited places were also included.

December 11, 2015 at 5:32 am

I have only been to 3 of the places mentioned,but many many others not mentioned. For me Kyoto beats,Tokyo and Nara…but then I have spent much more time in Kyoto and find it easy to get around.

Kyoto has so many beautiful temples,shrines and gardens and it is a relaxing place to walk around. I suppose a feature here is the Gion area,in the CBD,where you will certainly see the Maiko walking around in kimono, adding that special touch of old Japan. Of course, you find Tokyo exciting and Nara is well worth a visit;especially as it is so close to Kyoto. Visit all 3 if you can.

May 16, 2015 at 8:36 am

Japan, the only asian country in G7, great country also friendly people

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16 Unmissable Places to Visit in Japan in 2024

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Japan is somewhere I think everyone should visit. From futuristic skyscrapers to tranquil bamboo forests and neon arcades to serene temples, it’s like nowhere else on the planet.

The food is incredible, the people are ultra polite, and it has one of the most efficient public transport systems in the world. We love the combination of ease of travel and glorious bewilderment.

Japan has so much to offer but where should you start? These are our picks for the 10 best places to visit in Japan, perfect for your first or second trip to the country (plus extra suggestions for the repeat visits that are likely to happen!).

I’ve included our favourite things to do in each place, how long to spend there, and where we stayed. At the end of the post you’ll find a map of all these Japan destinations to start planning your route. 

I recommend mixing a few of the popular cities (most people won’t want to miss Tokyo and Kyoto) with some quieter, more rural places in Japan to see a different side of the country and take a break from the crowds.

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Top places to visit in japan, more amazing japan destinations, and a few more places to go in japan, best places to visit in japan map, japan travel tips.

Watch our short video for ideas on where to go in Japan for an amazing trip.

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If you only have time for one Japan destination, make it Kyoto.

This is traditional Japan as you imagined it—geisha in brightly coloured kimonos emerging from wooden teahouses, forests of bamboo, temples and shrines in gold and silver and scarlet, raked gravel Zen gardens, intricate feasts served on lacquered plates, graceful tea ceremonies, and markets full of intriguing but unidentifiable ingredients.

The concrete high-rises of downtown Kyoto can be disappointing, so head out towards the mountains to the surrounding neighbourhoods where you’ll find narrow stone streets, old wooden houses, monks in flowing robes, and the sounds of chanting and gongs from the many temples and shrines.

Gion is the place to spot geisha, Higashiyama has many beautiful temples to explore, and Arashiyama, up in the western hills, is one of the most traditional neighbourhoods and home to bamboo groves, quirky temples, and monkeys.

Kyoto is one of the top Japan tourist spots, so try to visit the popular temples early in the morning as they do get crowded.

In Kyoto don’t miss:

• Wandering through the red torii gates of Fushimi Inari shrine.
• Drinking matcha in a traditional tea ceremony. We loved Tea Ceremony Ju-An at Jotokuji Temple.
• Learning to cook traditional Japanese cuisine in a Kyoto cooking class .
• Taking the train to the village of Kibune and walking across the valley to the beautiful Kurama-dera temple.
• Retreating from the busy streets of Gion to the magical Yasaka-jinja at night.
• Strolling the Philosopher’s Path.
• Experiencing Zen Buddhist cuisine at the Tenryu-ji temple.
• Getting off the beaten track at the quirky Otagi Nenbutsuji temple .
• Exploring these magical Kyoto cherry blossom spots  if you visit in late-March or early-April.
• Enjoying the magnificent autumn colours if you visit in mid to late-November (Eikando and Enkoji are our favourite temples in autumn).

How Long to Spend: 3 nights minimum but 5 nights would be better. We’ve spent two months in Kyoto and still haven’t done everything! A longer stay also allows you to avoid the crowds more easily (you have more early mornings available) and take some of these wonderful day trips from Kyoto .

Read: Our post on the many amazing things to do in Kyoto (and how to avoid the crowds) and our guide to Kyoto’s temples and shrines and the best vegetarian restaurants in Kyoto

Where to stay in Kyoto: For a traditional ryokan, we loved our huge room with private bath overlooking the garden at Ryokan Yachiyo near Nanzenji temple (choose a suite not a standard room). At central Sora Niwa Terrace we enjoyed the amazing view from its onsen and rooftop bar. Or in a quiet part of Gion, Hotel The Celestine is stylish and close to temples. Find more accommodation in Kyoto here .

If Kyoto is the heart of traditional Japan, Tokyo is its ultramodern counterpart.

It’s here you’ll find the skyscrapers, noisy arcades, busy pedestrian crossings, quirky youth fashions, and many many incredibly delicious restaurants.

If all you do in Tokyo is eat, you’ll have an amazing time—even as vegetarians we ate so well.

Tokyo is also home to some of the weirdest activities we’ve ever done. From themed cafes (cats, owls, maids, robots, goats—you name it, Tokyo has it) to sensory-overload shows and arcades to cos-play go-karting.

On my first trip to Tokyo I was overwhelmed by the sprawling city and couldn’t help comparing it unfavourably to Kyoto.

On repeat visits I’ve grown to love the city (the food certainly helped) and while it isn’t as attractive as Kyoto, there is so much to do that you won’t want to skip it.

In Tokyo don’t miss:

• Driving a go-kart on the real roads while dressed as your favourite character. Insanity but so much fun!
• Eating in a tiny restaurant on atmospheric Memory Lane in Shinjuku .
• Gazing at the 360º skyline from the Shibuya Sky observatory (go at sunset for day and night views)
• Walking across the famous Shibuya Crossing.
• Gawping at the outrageous outfits on Takeshita Street in Harajuku.
• Visiting the brilliant DisneySea (our favourite Disney park in the world!) or neighbouring Tokyo Disneyland (or both if you have two days spare).
• Immersing yourself in the colourful digital art museum, TeamLab Planets (and don’t miss Uzu vegan ramen afterwards).
• Watching sumo wrestlers train— we did this morning sumo stable visit and it felt such an honour to see these impressive athletes close up.
• Drinking green tea at the relaxing Sakurai Japanese Tea Experience (the tea course is worth it).
• Exploring the cool neighbourhood of Shimokitazawa for cafes, vintage clothes, and record stores.

How Long to Spend: 3 – 5 nights or longer if you want to take day trips (such as to Nikko, Kawaguchiko or Hakone (for Mt Fuji), and Kamakura). We’ve spent over 6 weeks here on various trips and still find new things to do. If time is limited, I would allocate more time to Kyoto than Tokyo. 

Read: 23 cool things to do in Tokyo and the best vegetarian restaurants in Tokyo .

Where to stay in Tokyo: Read why I think Shinjuku is the best area to stay in Tokyo . My top pick is Hotel Century Southern Tower next to Shinjuku Station—our panoramic king room had an incredible view and was more spacious than most Tokyo hotel rooms. Or splurge on the luxurious Hotel Park Hyatt where the film Lost in Translation was filmed. Search for hotels in Tokyo here .

Top tip: Consider buying a Japan Rail Pass in advance as it’s so easy being able to hop on and off trains all over the country. Read our Japan Rail Pass guide for full details.

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3) Takayama

Takayama is an utterly gorgeous small town on the edge of the Japan Alps and one of the best less-visited places to go in Japan.

I loved wandering the historic centre full of traditional wooden houses, colourful shrines, neatly shaped trees, and bright red bridges over the river.

In Takayama don’t miss:

• Wandering the old town in the early morning before the crowds arrive.
• Buying delicious fruit from the morning markets.
• Snacking on mitarashi-dango (rice balls grilled in soy) from a street stall.
• Seeing the extravagant floats at the Festival Floats Exhibition Hall.
• Visiting the Hida Folk Village to see traditional thatched houses.
• Cycling through the countryside with Satoyama Experience .

How Long to Spend: 2-3 nights. We had 2 nights and wished we’d had longer because there’s lots to do in the surrounding countryside. With a longer stay you could take day trips to the traditional thatched roof houses of Shirakawa-go and go hiking in Kamikochi in the Japan Alps.

Read: 54 Best Things to do in Japan for an Unforgettable Trip

Where to stay in Takayama: We stayed at Super Hotel Hida Takayama , a good mid-range business hotel near the train station. Next time I want to stay at Oyado Koto No Yume , a ryokan with onsen which gets excellent reviews. Find more hotels in Takayama here .

Top tip: See our Japan 2 week itinerary for more details on combining these top places in Japan for an amazing trip.

Mount Fuji is on most people’s lists of places to visit in Japan, but this must-see Japan landmark can be rather elusive and is often hidden by clouds.

There are a number of places you can see the mountain from ( Kawaguchiko is another great option), but Hakone is easy to reach from Tokyo and there are lots of other things to do in the area in case you are out of luck with a sighting.

Despite visiting on a cloudy, drizzly day, we were lucky that Mount Fuji emerged from the clouds above Lake Ashi and it was magical!

Hakone is also fun to visit because you can do a loop of the sights on different modes of transport—train, bus, pirate boat (yes, really!), and cable car.

In Hakone don’t miss:

• Buying a Hakone Free Pass so you can hop on and off all the transport options on the Hakone Loop.
• Seeing Mount Fuji from the lake or cable car.
• Eating a black egg cooked in the hot sulphur springs at volcanic Owakudani (not really, we skipped this, but the Japanese love them).
• Soaking in an onsen.
• Staying in a tatami room in a ryokan (traditional inn) and enjoying an elaborate dinner.
• Wandering the outdoor sculpture gallery at Hakone Open Air Museum .

How Long to Spend: You could visit on a day trip from Tokyo but I recommend 1-2 nights to experience a ryokan and onsen. We had one night and did part of the loop in the afternoon we arrived and the rest in the morning. While it was just enough for the main sights, we wished we’d had longer to enjoy our ryokan.

Where to stay in Hakone: I recommend staying in Moto Hakone by Lake Ashi for Mt Fuji views. A ryokan with an onsen and meals included is the perfect way to experience the area. Our ryokan has closed but Yoshimatsu looks like a beautiful alternative. Find more hotels in Hakone here .

5) Kanazawa

Kanazawa is one of the best cities to visit in Japan, but few foreign tourists make it here.

Consider Kanazawa as a quieter alternative to Kyoto to experience geisha districts with preserved wooden buildings.

There is also one of the most beautiful gardens in the country, a stunning castle, and many art museums to explore.

In Kanazawa don’t miss:

• Wandering Kenroku-en Garden , one of the top three gardens in Japan.
• Exploring the wooden teahouses of the geisha districts Higashi Chaya and the quieter Kazuemachi and Nishi Chaya.
• Experiencing a traditional tea ceremony at the exquisite Gyokusen-en Gardens.

How Long to Spend: 2 nights. 

Where to stay in Kanazawa: We stayed in a standard business hotel in the centre—there are lots of budget options. Find hotels in Kanazawa here .

Nikko is a temple town and UNESCO world heritage site in the mountains a few hours north of Tokyo and makes a cool retreat from the city. The area is famous for its vibrant autumn colours.

The temples and shrines with their vermillion gates and moss-covered stone lanterns are scattered on the wooded hillside.

The main attraction is Toshogu Shrine, a stunning complex with more than a dozen lavishly decorated red and gold buildings amongst huge, ancient cedar trees. The crowds can be overwhelming, so afterwards head to one of the quieter shrines.

In Nikko don’t miss:

• Visiting Toshogu Shrine early to avoid the crowds
• Playing games at atmospheric Futarasan-jinja
• Exploring Taiyuinbyo
• Hiking up the mountain to the peaceful Takino shrine
• Photographing the bright red Shinkyo bridge
• Munching on dango (grilled rice balls on a stick) from a street stall
• Eating sushi at Komekichi Kozushi

How Long to Spend: You could visit Nikko as a day trip from Tokyo, but it’s worth spending a night or two to explore one of the most beautiful places in Japan including hiking trails, lakes, waterfalls, and hot springs. 

We had one night and wished we’d had two so that we could have visited Toshogu Shrine early on the second day. 

Where to stay in Nikko: We stayed at Nikko Park Lodge Tobu Station , a good budget option conveniently located close to the train stations. For more character, you could stay in a traditional ryokan with views and outdoor onsen baths such as Nikko Hoshino Yado . Find more hotels in Nikko here .

7) Koya-San

Koya-san (Mount Koya) is one of the most interesting places in Japan to experience the traditional side of the country.

This secluded and sacred temple town is located in the forest-covered mountains of Kansai and is one of the best places to get a taste of life as a monk by staying in a shukubo or temple lodging.

After wandering around the otherworldly Okunoin forest cemetery , we checked into our simple tatami room at the temple, soaked in the communal onsen bath, and enjoyed a delicious shojin ryori  vegetarian Buddhist meal.

In the morning we were up early for the chanting and meditation ceremony with the monks.

A temple stay at Koya-san is a fascinating experience and well worth the detour from Osaka or Kyoto.

How Long to Spend: 1 night. 

Read: Sleeping with Monks: A Night in a Japanese Temple in Koya-San

Where to stay in Koya-san: We stayed in Haryo-in, the cheapest temple accommodation, but it’s quite basic and I’d recommend paying more to stay at one of the more traditional temples like 1000-year-old Eko-in which gets superb reviews. Find more temple lodgings here .

Tsumago is a picture-perfect traditional mountain village in the Kiso Valley.

It is one of the best-preserved post towns in Japan and you feel like you’ve stepped back in time on the traffic-less streets of beautifully restored wooden inns.

During the Edo period 300 years ago, Tsumago was a stop on the Nakasendo Way between Kyoto and Edo (now Tokyo).

You can hike part of this trail to the village of Magome in about two to three hours. Unfortunately, a typhoon prevented us doing this, but it’s supposed to be a scenic and easy walk.

How Long to Spend: 1-2 nights. If you can arrive early enough on the first day to hike the Nakasendo Way in the afternoon, then 1 night is enough as it’s a tiny village. 

Where to stay in Tsumago: In keeping with the Edo-era atmosphere, stay in a traditional ryokan or minshuku (a simpler family-run inn). We stayed at the basic Minshuku Shimosagaya . Neighbouring Magome has more choice including the budget Chaya Hotel or historic Tajimaya .

Nara was Japan’s first permanent capital and is full of historic treasures including many UNESCO world heritage sites.

It’s one of the top Japan attractions and makes a rewarding day trip from Kyoto to visit the temples and wild deer in Nara Park.

The Daibutsu-den (Hall of the Great Buddha) at Todaiji is the main sight—it’s the largest wooden building in the world and nothing prepares you for the immense sight.

Inside is the 15-metre tall gold and bronze statue of Buddha that dates back to 751.

We also love the forest shrine complex Kasuga Taisha.

How Long to Spend: Most people visit as a day trip from Kyoto or Osaka. You can see the highlights in half a day but a full day is better.

Where to stay in Nara: The advantages of staying overnight in Nara are avoiding the crowds with an early start and experiencing our favourite ryokan in Japan. Tsukihitei is a small traditional inn with a magical forest setting and delicious meals. It’s only a 15-minute walk to the Nara temples.

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10) hiroshima and miyajima.

Come to pay your respects to the victims of the atomic bombing at Hiroshima’s moving Peace Memorial Museum and Park and stay to explore the modern city that was almost entirely rebuilt after World War II.

Hiroshima is usually combined with a visit to the famous floating torii gate at Itsukushima shrine on nearby Miyajima Island.

You’ll also want to try the delicious local speciality okonomiyaki, a thick pancake of batter, vegetables and noodles.

How Long to Spend: 1-2 nights is enough to visit the Peace Memorial Museum and Miyajima Island or you could visit as a long day trip from Kyoto, Osaka or Okayama. We spent 1 night in Hiroshima then 1 night on Miyajima.

Read: 14 Best Day Trips from Kyoto .

Where to stay in Hiroshima: The Sheraton Grand Hiroshima was the most spacious Western-style hotel we stayed in in Japan. We really appreciated the king size bed after a few weeks of small Japanese hotels. It’s right next to the station too. Find more hotels in Hiroshima here . Where to stay in Miyajima: While you could visit the island on a day trip, we loved seeing the top sights without the crowds at night and early in the morning. Iwaso Ryokan has the perfect location (secluded but central), beautiful meals, and our room had a view of the torii gate.

There are so many incredible places to explore in Japan. Here are some more destinations that we absolutely loved (and it was hard to leave them off the top 10 list!).

If any of these appeal to you more than the ones above (or fit into your itinerary better), then they will be just as enjoyable. 

Osaka is a Japan must-see for many visitors. We love the neon craziness of Dotonburi, the amazing food ( for vegetarians too ), friendly people, affordable prices, and the scary rides and brilliant Harry Potter World at Universal Studios Japan . 

But, if you have limited time on your first trip to Japan, I would probably say choose Osaka or Tokyo as they are both sprawling modern cities. 

If you are flying into or out of Kansai airport then it makes sense to spend a night or two in Osaka. You could also visit as a day trip from Kyoto. 

In Osaka, we loved staying in Shinsaibashi . The location is ideal—quiet but close to lots of cool shops and restaurants and within walking distance of Dotonburi. Hotel options include the stylish Hotel The Flag .

12) Kinosaki Onsen

On our first Japan trip we were terrified of getting naked in onsens, but on our latest visit we were brave enough to spend a few nights in an onsen town. 

Onsen hopping dressed in a kimono in a traditional hot spring resort is a classic Japanese experience. Kinosaki Onsen is a great place to experience it.

It’s only a few hours from Kyoto or Osaka and the canal-side town is very pretty, especially in cherry blossom season.

We stayed in a traditional tatami mat room at Morizuya Ryokan . It’s ideal for first-timers as they speak English and are very friendly, walking you through everything you need to know. The epic meals served in your room are delicious too.

Read our Kinosaki Onsen guide for all the details including onsen etiquette and how to get over your fears. 

13) Naoshima Island

Contemporary art fans will love Naoshima, a sleepy island in the Seto Inland Sea known for its art galleries and outdoor sculptures. 

We visited on a day trip from Okayama and had a wonderful day cycling around and combining art with beautiful sea views and tiny fishing villages.

Read our Naoshima Island guide for a recommended one day itinerary.

14) Okayama

If you are interested in getting off-the-beaten-track, Okayama is a great place to visit in Japan. 

This modern city is home to one of the best gardens in the country and is especially beautiful in sakura season when you can enjoy the cherry blossoms without the crowds of Kyoto or Tokyo. 

As it’s on a bullet train line, it’s a convenient and affordable base for exploring the area including the historic Kurashiki, Naoshima Island, Himeji Castle, and Hiroshima.

We also did a fantastic bike trip on the Kibiji Bike Trail through rice fields to untouristy temples. 

Our post on the best things to do in Okayama has all our tips.

15) Himeji Castle

Himeji Castle is one of the few original castles in Japan (most were destroyed at some point and rebuilt). It’s well worth a visit, especially in cherry blossom season. 

You can easily visit in half a day from Osaka, Kyoto, Okayama (as we did) or on the way to Hiroshima. 

16) Kawaguchiko

For the best views of Mount Fuji, head to Lake Kawaguchiko. It’s especially lovely in cherry blossom or autumn leaf seasons. 

You can enjoy the views by walking or cycling around the lake or taking a trip on a cable car or boat (we hired a panda pedal boat!).

The lake is also home to one of my favourite museums and tea houses in Japan.

Kawaguchiko Lakeside Hotel is an excellent affordable option here. Unusually for Japan, our room was huge, and it’s close to the lake with Mt Fuji views from some rooms.

See my Lake Kawaguchiko guide for more tips. 

These Japan tourist attractions and off-the-beaten-path gems are on our list for our next trip:

• Kamakura – Beaches, Buddhas, hikes and vegetarian-friendly food. You could visit as a day trip from Tokyo.
• The Izu Peninsula – Rugged coastline, mountains, and hot springs not far from Tokyo.
• Shirakawa-go – A village of traditional grass-roofed houses in a scenic setting. You could fit in a visit between Takayama and Kanazawa.
• Takaragawa Onsen – A scenic onsen resort a few hours from Tokyo. It has a large mixed-gender onsen, so unusually you don’t have to be naked.
• Hokkaido – The northernmost island of Japan known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities.
• Okinawa – A chain of tropical islands in the far south of Japan.

Read our detailed Japan guides for everything you need to know to plan a brilliant trip.

• 54 Best Things to Do in Japan for an Unforgettable Trip
• Planning a Trip to Japan: Dos and Don’ts
• Two Weeks in Japan: A Detailed Itinerary
• Is a Japan Rail Pass Worth It?
• Where to Stay in Japan: The Ultimate Guide to Accommodation
• 20 Fascinating Books to Read Before Visiting Japan
• Vegetarian Survival Guide to Japan

More Japan, Direct to your Inbox!

I hope this post has given you some ideas of where to go in Japan. Wherever you decide to visit you are sure to have an amazing trip. 

What are your favourite places in Japan? Leave a comment and let us know so we can add them to our Japan bucket list. 

If you enjoyed this post, pin it!

62 Comments

very informative

Reply ↓

thanks for sharing

First of all – your posts are fantastic and so full of great detail. We are planning our first trip to Japan in November. First draft is 5 days Tokyo – 2 days Hakone – 5 days Kyoto – 3 days Hiroshima – 4 days Tokyo.

I was trying to see how to fit Lake Kawaguchi or Takayama or Kanazawa into the trip but they all seem to require quite the journey time given the other places we have picked. Wondering if it would be better to add some days to the end of the trip and just visit from Tokyo. So maybe do Tokyo to Kanazawa for a couple of days. Not particular keen on 5-6 hour trip from Takayama back to Tokyo so may have to skip that.

Hi Kevin I would do Tokyo – Hakone – Takayama – Kyoto – Hiroshima – Tokyo.

We did Tokyo – Hakone – Takayama – Kanazawa on our 2 week itinerary: https://www.neverendingvoyage.com/japan-2-week-itinerary/

I prefer Takayama to Kanazawa, especially as you already have lots of big cities on your itinerary. If you really want to fit it in, do so between Takayama and Kyoto.

Lake Kawaguchi is harder to fit in. You could do it as a day trip from Tokyo at the end if you didn’t see Mt Fuji at Hakone (due to clouds) and if you have the energy.

One thing you might also consider is reducing Hiroshima to 2 nights and adding a night on Miyajima Island. We did that last October (one night in each) and really preferred the island after the day trippers had left and early in the morning. You might catch the autumn colour on the island if you are visiting later in November. Again, it changes up the pace from the cities.

If you have big suitcases, you could use a luggage delivery service from Hiroshima to Tokyo and just take a day bag for the overnight (we decided against that but only had a carry on suitcase and laptop bag each).

Good luck with the planning and enjoy Japan!

Erin – Thanks for the advice – good to hear input from someone who has actually experienced it

Apologies for posting the reply so many times – i kept picking the wrong reply option

Awesome guide. Thank you. A lot of the accommodation is around $500aud a night! Extremely expensive. Is that normal around Japan? Me and my partner were wanting to travel around Japan in July this year but if the cost of accommodation us that expensive we might not be able to do the trip. I assume we will be able to find cheap accommodation at most places?

You can definitely find much cheaper accommodation. We did our first few Japan trips on much tighter budgets, but now have the ability to choose more special places to stay.

Your best bet is to look for business hotels in the cities – rooms are usually small but clean and well equipped. Have a browse on Booking.com and you should find plenty of options.

Planning trip(first time ever in Japan) arriving afternoon of December 18th and leaving evening of December 30th. I will be traveling with my 18 and 20 year old boys (privacy should be interesting in the tiny hotel rooms). Planning to stay in Tokyo either 5 nights with day trips to Hakone and either Kamakura or Yokohama OR 4 nights with day trip to either Kamakura or Yokohama and 1 night in Hakone. Is it worth staying the night in Hakone, or just day trip from Tokyo? Then we will spend 3 nights in Kyoto and 3 nights in Osaka (does it matter which order?) with a day trip from each city. One to Nara and one to Hiroshima and Miyajima. My 18 year old wants to have Kobe beef in Kobe, but don’t think it will happen as it’s likely not worth the time away from the other places. I’d love to be able to visit both Kamakura and Yokohama, but don’t think it will work. Likely choosing to go to Kamakura. We will return to Tokyo for the last night and spend the last day (really 1/2 day) in Tokyo before heading to the airport to fly home. Thoughts on the plan? Any specific recommendations?

I think it’s worth spending the night in Hakone if you stay in a ryokan as it will be a unique experience that you won’t get in the cities.

I would probably go to Kyoto before Osaka but it doesn’t make a huge difference. Your day trip choices sound good.

Enjoy Japan!

thank you very much for all the infos and the very beautiful photos!

Hello, Have you been to Tamba-Sasayama in Hyogo? We have a lot of nature, local food, and cultures! Tamba black beans are famous local food and also you can experience a pottery making. I hope you will visit here one day;)

We haven’t but we’ll put it on our list for our next trip this autumn! Thank you for the recommendation!

Wow, this is such a great travel guide. Thanks a lot!

Odd how all of the “best places in Japan to visit” are all in central Japan near Tokyo and Kyoto. How disappointing the travels of the writers to these other parts of the country must have been.

Have you been to the Autumn Takayama Festival? 😊

We did not buy plane tickets yet, but we were going to land on Oct 22 to experience the Kurama Fire Festival in Kyoto. We heard about Takayama festival on Oct 9th and wanted to know if it’s worth changing our plans to fly in earlier for it, and if the weather will be horrible or not during that time? Thank you so mochi for your help! I’m so torn!

We haven’t been but it does look cool! I’m not sure it’s worth changing your plans for. Later in October you’ll have more of a chance of seeing fall colours in Kyoto. If you do decide to go, book your accommodation asap as it gets extremely busy during the festival.

What is the best way to get around these places? Train or car?

Train. You might find this post helpful: https://www.neverendingvoyage.com/planning-a-trip-to-japan/

very nice good work

Thanks for the detailed post with nice photographs

I forgot to include in early to mid December.

I’ve been to all the tourist sites and a few others. Where would you recommend for an overnight not far from Tokyo?

Have you been to the Izu Peninsula? We haven’t yet but our friend who lives in Tokyo recommends it. The onsens would be nice in the winter.

planning on going japan next year, getting lots of ideas from these blogs

Beppu should be on this list!

Hopefully we’ll make it there next time!

nice one thank you i learn lot of things about this web site

what about Harajuku?

I included it in the Tokyo section :)

It’s definitely worth visiting!

Hello I am relooking at your Japan highlights. I had the most amazing trip in Spring 2020 many thanks to your post which seems now to have gone and been replaced by more posts. The one thing I would like to say is that you put before Miyajama on the one i read and i have to say that this was one of my favourite spots. I totally recommend it. We also did the two walks one of which was the edo trail and the other outside of Kyoto. We stayed in Koyasan too thanks to you. Thank you again.

Hi, I’m thinking of planning a trip for me and my daughter to visit Japan but haven’t any ideas of where to start. I was thinking a two week trip but maybe more time would be needed for the things we would like to do. If staying for longer than two weeks is there visas needed ect. I haven’t a clue where to start I’ve looked at your guide which is very helpful. Would I be better of speaking to a travel agent for help and advice ??? Many thanks Paul Miller.

It depends where you are from but many nationalities (including UK and US) can stay in Japan for 90 days without a visa.

Two weeks would give you a great overview (here’s a suggested itinerary: https://www.neverendingvoyage.com/japan-2-week-itinerary/ ) but if you have more time (and the budget), there’s always more to see.

I think Japan is manageable without a travel agent. See our post on planning a trip for ideas to get started: https://www.neverendingvoyage.com/planning-a-trip-to-japan/

We used this page during our six week Japanese adventure and it was brilliantly helpful! Thank you!

I’m glad it helped, Alex. I hope you enjoyed Japan as much as we do.

This page has been very helpful! I am planning a two week trip to Japan next year and this has helped break down each city and what to not miss. Thanks again!

I hope someday, I can visit Japan for some other reasons. As pictures shown, fantastic and very interesting places and educational as well.

Japan has always been a remarkable place for me. I think I missed those places you described about. I hope I can give a shot on my future trip if possible. Btw thanks for sharing your experience with us.

Japanese pachislot, mechanical games,are different from foreign slot machine and popular recently. From 2020 smorking will be prohibited in the pachinko parlors or pachislot parlors. Terefore more and more people will have a good time during playing games. If you come to Japan, you might want to play them.

We keep meaning to try pachinko! That’s good news about the smoking ban!

Hi Great website thanks. We are looking to travel to Japan (arrive Tokyo) in late January for about 14 days. This is our first visit and we don’t mind driving. I would be interested to know what places you could recommend to get a real feel of Japan. Thanks

I don’t recommend driving in Japan. The train system is so efficient and it’ll be less stressful than driving. Here’s our 2 week itinerary: https://www.neverendingvoyage.com/japan-2-week-itinerary/

Thanks for the guidance. If you were going in November for 6 weeks what would you do with your time Cheers Walter

That’s a great amount of time and you should so some great autumn foliage. You could visit everywhere on this list so it really depends on your interests and what pace of travel you prefer.

On our latest 7 week trip we chose to base ourselves in Kyoto for a month then travel around for a couple of weeks and finish with a week in Tokyo. If you prefer to move at a faster pace you could cover a lot of ground.

Hi Guys, great site. I was wondering why you seem to spend so much time in the large cities? I’m planning my first trip and my initial thoughts were to spend just a few days in Tokyo and Kyoto? Arent the more remote sights more rewarding?

I was also wondering about a cherry blossom visit – when if the best time to see them but to avoid the worst of the crowds??

Thanks! Chris

We love the smaller places in Japan and think the ideal trip includes a mix of them with the big cities. I wouldn’t say they are more rewarding, just different. There’s just so much to see (and eat) in Tokyo and especially Kyoto that we keep returning to them.

If you’re not a big city person a few days in Tokyo would be fine. Kyoto has a lot of history, temples, and traditional architecture (and more tourists), so you’ll only cover some of the highlights in a few days.

The cherry blossom are only in full bloom for about a week so there’s no way of avoiding the crowds in popular spots then. It’ll be slightly less crowded at the beginning or end of the blooming period, but it’s hard to predict exactly when that will be (and it varies by location).

I would focus on visiting places that have cherry blossoms but fewer crowds. We were in Kyoto at the beginning of April when the blooms just started (and it was already quite busy) then moved on to Kinosaki Onsen and Okayama where we enjoyed the blossoms without many people around.

I’ve written more about it here (and will be doing an Okayama post at some point): https://www.neverendingvoyage.com/kyoto-cherry-blossoms/

hi guys really nice blog, could you itemize it, how many days you spent in each city, village? and if you would change something, where to stay maybe longer, where shorter?

regards tomek

That’s a good idea! We’re currently travelling in Japan and will update this post soon so I’ll add that info then. If you’d like to know about a specific place now just let me know. Usually we spend a week or more in Kyoto and Tokyo and only 1-3 nights in the smaller places.

My husband and I are interested in making a second trip to Japan in March with our 5 month old baby. This will be our second trip…we’ve done Tokyo, Takayama, and Kyoto previously (along with one night in Osaka). We LOVED Takayama for its food and quaintness. We liked Tokyo but got bored after a few days. Kyoto was probably our least favorite – too touristy, What should we do for our second trip??

It’s very difficult to make recommendations without having any idea of what you like to do, how long you plan to visit, or if your baby goes everywhere with you. Given that you liked Takayama, you might consider Kanazawa, Kurashiki, and Nikko. The first two are small cities of about 400,000 that have delightful walking areas and interesting sights in general. Nikko is very small but houses the shrines of Tokugawa Ieyasu and Tokugawa Iemitsu, who were the first and third shoguns of the Tokugawa Shogunate. These are UNESCO World Heritage and incredible.

You didn’t indicate when you visited Japan on your first trip. If you went to Kyoto during fall foliage you would have encountered a lot of tourists, most of whom are Japanese. Kyoto draws tourists because it is a world class city with a very large number of World Heritage sites in addition to spectacular fall color. I don’t want to sound rude regarding your Tokyo comment. I can understand not liking Tokyo because it is a bit overwhelming in size, although that is part of what makes it so enjoyable for us. However, I cannot comprehend getting bored there.

I wish you luck.

It sounds like you enjoy the smaller, more traditional places so I’d recommend Tsumago, Koya-san and Kanazawa (a bigger city but with some lovely traditional neighbourhoods). Nikko is also beautiful but we found it very crowded (it would have been quieter if we’d stayed overnight and arrived early though).

Your website is terrific. I was provided a link to a couple of regions in Italy for a major summer trip. Your comments, photos and recommendations were of such interest that my wife and I decided to completely change the first 10 days of our trip. Then I got so immersed in the various places you have gone, I decided to look at Japan. We spent a month there five years ago, and then we spent another month this December including Christmas. We have been to all but two of your 10 unmissable places in Japan and have used the trains and metros as our primary modes of transport. We would agree that Japan is a great place to visit and the people are terrific.

Since you asked for additions to your bucket list, I would like to suggest the following. Near Hiroshima is the island of Miyajima. This is the site of the great in the water torii gate, which is quite magical. The museum at the Hiroshima Peace Park provides an incredibly moving experience. Himeji Castle (White Heron Castle) is one of the original late 16th century castles and I believe the largest. It is on the route between Hiroshima and Osaka. It has been recently renovated. Osaka Station is beautifully done with some terrific surrounding buildings. The Dotonburi area is neon heaven with street food in abundance. Kyoto, as you stated, is amazing with probably more UNESCO World Heritage locations than anywhere else in the world. South of Kyoto in Uji is Byodo-in, a world heritage temple with a beautiful new museum.

I agree that Kanazawa is a really nice smaller city. Like Kyoto it was not bombed. The D.T. Suzuki Museum is an outstanding piece of architecture, although of primary interest to people steeped in Buddhism, philosophy. The Seisonkaku Villa is a 10,000 foot samurai home located at the edge of Kenrokuen Gardens and is very interesting. There are two places in Takayama you didn’t mention, each of which is very worthwhile. First, next door to the Float Museum and on the same admission ticket is the Sakurayama Nikkokan. This museum contains scale models of the shrines in Nikko. It took 33 master carpenters and 17 years to complete during the first part of the 20th century. It is incredible. Second, the Takayama Museum of Art houses an outstanding (Michelin 3 star) collection of art nouveau and art deco objects. We visited Matsumoto to see the Matsumoto Castle (Black Crow Castle). It is also one of the oldest castles in Japan.

I would also like to suggest Nagoya, which is one of Japan’s largest and most industrial cities. It is home to Toyota. Three recommendations. First, tour the Toyota Factory to get real insight into a truly sophisticated approach to assembly line manufacture. Second, the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Science and Technology is phenomenal. Many demonstrations of working textile machines and auto robotics. Third, the Nagoya Palace has been rebuilt (just opened in 2018) to exact specifications of the original palace (early 1600s) including all the screens. Even though it is a replica, it’s incredible.

You covered the shrines in Nikko. I would only add that if one did nothing else but see the Nikko shrines, a trip to Japan is warranted. Finally, Tokyo is to us the most exciting city around. Never ending pleasure of wandering around. There are just too many places to enumerate. One little side note: the Isetan Department Store in Shinjuku has a roof garden. You can buy incredible take away food in the basement food halls and take to the roof to eat, if the weather is good. Better than either Harrod’s or Selfridge’s.

Thanks so much for the tips David! We are returning to Japan in a few weeks for two months so we’ll try to visit some of these places.

Hi! Thanks, I am definitely gonna copy your ideas! One question – is it worth to go to Hiroshima instead of Takayama? My husband and I are gonna visit Japan in March 2019 for 9 days. I think it is not enough to fulfil your itinerary and we have to shorten it a bit. Thank you for your blog ;)

Honestly, we preferred Takayama. It’s just so pretty with the traditional Japanese architecture and we like small towns. Hiroshima is more of a big modern city BUT of course, the peace memorial is very moving, so if you really want to see that then choose Hiroshima instead (which is actually what we did on our first trip to Japan).

My husband is wanting to visit , the place that his father served in Japen . He is not sure exactly where that is ?

Hi..!! the blog is very informative.Me and my wife would be visiting Japan in Mar’19 for 8 days.We have opted for a package tour.Based on your recommendations Kyoto & Tokyo seem the 2 top places.Can you please recommend us the third place to visit..??

We are going there on a tour to Himazi with 3 homestays & I want to visit a friend in Miyago. Can we still see Mt Fuji & Kyoto after the tour? Thank you for your wonderful blog. Lynne

If you have time I don’t see why not. You can check train times/distances on the Hyperdia site http://www.hyperdia.com/en/ . Have an amazing trip!

Interesting blog, thank you for sharing your experiences! We will have 9 full days in Japan and hoping to see Tokyo, Mount Fuji ( want to stay two nights there ) Takayama, Kyoto and Hiroshima ( as a one day trip from Kyoto ). We are flying back home from Osaka ( our arrival is at Haneda ).. do you think it is do-able or are we overdoing it? Maybe we should leave out Takayama? but since we are going middle of October we are hoping to see some of autumn there..any recommendations? Thank you!

Hi Nath I think it will be a busy trip but it’s definitely possible to do all that in 9 days. I love Takayama so it’s hard to recommend skipping it. It all depends on your energy levels! If you are up for busy days then go for it! Enjoy! Erin

Wooooow love this post!! I have always dreamed of visiting Japan and seeing real Cherry blossoms.. Though I was able to make one dream a reality – see real cherry blossoms in Atok, Benguet, Philippines (but just a few because we were told that it will took two years for the trees to bloom). They look lovely!! :) I’m still not giving up on the bigger dream which is to go to Japan :D And once I get there, I’d definitely visit Kyoto coz I find their culture very rich.. from geishas to kimonos, to sushi and temples! :) See you soon Japaaaaaaaaan!

Who knew there were cherry blossoms in the Philippines?!

We’re planning to go back to Japan next year for the cherry blossom season, although I’m a little worried the crowds will be crazy. Kyoto is a definite highlight of Japan – I hope you make it there!

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• Things to Do
• Tourist Spots & Attractions

30 Most Popular Japan Sightseeing Spots As Voted By Travelers

• Melissa Tolentino

One of the most daunting things about any international trip is deciding where to go once you get to that country. If you're coming to Japan, you're probably flying into Tokyo, staying here for a bit, and then taking advantage of your JR Rail Pass to travel the country. But where are you going? And why? Sure, see some temples and shrines. Or a castle. Or a giant Buddha. Or an art museum. Which one, though? In what city? TripAdvisor has saved you some research time by bringing you 30 of the most popular sightseeing spots in Japan as voted by travelers just like you! Here is a run-down of the list, from #30 to #1, with a brief description and a roundup of reviews. 

This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

30. Shinsaibashi (Osaka)

Shinsaibashi is the main street of Osaka as well as the central shopping hub. Here, you can find everything from giant brand-name stores (including the self-proclaimed largest Puma store in the world) to tiny, cramped shops selling anything from ceramics to secondhand dolls to clothes. Amerika-mura, or the "American village," is also considered part of Shinsaibashi and is Kansai's equivalent of Takeshita-dori in Harajuku - otherwise known as the mecca of youth. 

TripAdvisor review:

"Even without a destination, just wandering around is fun: You really feel like there's everything complete from high-class brands to variety shops. Just looking around is fun, but if you come here, at any rate, it's shopping." - Miki W from Okinawa

29. Nishiki Market (Kyoto)

The Nishiki Market (or Nishiki Ichiba) is a very long street with 100+ shops and restaurants. Most of the shops have to do with food - selling produce, fish, meat or cookware. You can also get free samples here, which may be the best part about it if you're just wandering through.

"Looking around is great, and eating and walking is great: This is a place to take a peek at Kyoto's food culture. In the narrow alleyway, different shops crowd together. Lots of delicious-looking food is being sold, and just wandering around looking at everything is fun. Depending on the shop, you can eat there, and even though it's a little rude you can eat and walk while looking every which way. During the New Year's there are so many people it's hard to walk." - sutori-mu from Tokyo

28. Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry & Technology (Nagoya)

This museum was founded by the Toyota Group and doesn't have the focus on cars that you think it does: instead, it exhibits the history and development of the automatic loom.

TripAdvisor review: 

"Definitely amazed with the history of Toyota. You would not have thought that they started as a weaving company. The dream of Sakichi Toyoda is clearly displayed in the museum. From his early years to his best work. They also show the history of Toyota Motors. Visitors would enjoy visiting the museum because it is very interactive." - Pj_rtd

27. Video Game Bar Space Station (Osaka)

Space Station Osaka is exactly what it says in the title: it's a video game bar with retro systems, like the Nintendo 64 and the Famicom, hooked up throughout the place. 

"This was our first visit to Osaka, and we found all of the bars to be really charming and accommodating. You don't have to be great at video games to enjoy a drink here; I freely admit my companions and I are awful at video games, but they do try and help you find something you're good at. Sadly for us there's nothing we're good at. Otherwise, the bartender was so friendly and helpful. And, luckily for us, it was Hanukkah and they had bagels. Cool theme, friendly service and bagels! Oh, the drinks were nice, too. If you're in Osaka, you should definitely check out this bar." - therealmissrita from the US

26. Kaiyukan (Osaka)

The Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan was voted best aquarium in Asia by TripAdvisor users and is also ranked as the 13th best aquarium in the world. Its aim is to recreate the natural environment of the surrounding ocean and contains several interactive and world-leading exhibits.

If you visit the Osaka Aquarium, arranging your tickets in advance can save you waiting in line. It's easy to buy tickets to Osaka Kaiyukan Aquarium online here !

"If you plan on spending some time in Osaka, please pay this Aquarium a visit. It was a couple of metro stations away from city center. The Aquarium is ginormous in size. Variety of aquatic species found. So fun and yet so relaxing at the same time. It's for all ages. I find it took away some of the stress we had as tourists always on our feet and travelling from one place to another. We got to just enjoy this at our own pace and see another side of Japan. The huge aquarium in the middle of the building is many floors high, and the it was easy to navigate through." - Trisha Andrea from Canada

To learn more about Osaka Aquarium, check out our round-up of 9 must-see sights and attractions  you'll find there!

25. Sensoji (Tokyo)

Sensoji is the most important Buddhist temple in the Japan and is one of the top tourist sites in the country. It is located in the heart of Asakusa. Asakusa has so many things to see and do, so if you're planning a visit, consider booking an  Asakusa Private Walking Tour .

"I come here every year for the first temple visit of the new year! I went on January 3rd. There were lots of people bustling in the Nakamise, and there were lots of stores where you could get food to eat while walking around. After I visited the temple, lots of stalls were set up and it got even more fun. The buttered potato I had was so delicious~~. [sic]" - yukams from Tokyo

To learn more about all there is to see and do here, check out our pick of the top ten must-see spots in Asakusa !

24. Shibuya Center Gai (Tokyo)

The Center Gai is a street in Udagawacho in the Shibuya district of Tokyo. It is basically, as the name suggests, the "center" of Shibuya, and contains lots of shops, restaurants, bars and clubs. It is reached immediately after crossing the "scramble crossing," or the busy pedestrian crosswalk Shibuya is known for. 

"What a sight at night! So I visited the main Tokyo city centre of Shibuya at day and it was pretty good seeing the crossing and town but not quite what i expected, I then returned on the night time and it was a whole different world it was amazing, lights and signs everywhere with the streets crowded with people it was an amazing atmosphere!" - Stephen B from England

23. Dotonbori (Osaka)

Dotonbori is one of the main entertainment, food and shopping areas of Osaka that runs along the Dotonbori canal. It is often known as the place where the Glico Running Man sign is displayed. 

"A tourist trap of the very best kind: When in Osaka, do what the locals AND the tourists do - go to the Dotonburi district. We found ourselves there on a daily basis, either as a convenient "walk - through" or as a destination in itself. Of course, this area is loaded with tiny bars and restaurants, especially at night but during the daytime, be sure to include a visit to the Standard Bookstore, a treasure trove of books, magazines, clothing, music with a café downstairs." - MelbourneMeg_12 from Australia

22. Nara Park (Nara)

Nara Park is home to the famous Todai-ji temple with a giant Buddha. However, it is also known for the thousands of deer that just wander freely around the grounds.

"Nice walk between Nara JR and Nara Park: There are a number of interesting shops along the approach road to Nara Park, which makes the 20 minutes walk quite pleasurable. The Park itself is not scenic in winter, but still there is a nice pagoda for good pictures, and the deers do roam freely. They even come in and out of the park and cross the street like pedestrians." - bencon from Hong Kong

Check out our top 8 must-see spots in Nara to learn more about this ancient Japanese capital!

21. Jigokudani Monkey Park (Nagano)

"Jigokudani" means "Hell's Valley," but the only hellish thing about this park is the steam and bubbles of boiling water coming out of the ground due to the hot springs (onsen). (Don't worry, it's not dangerous, unless the water ices over - then be careful.) Otherwise, if you think you'll be seeing monkeys here, you're right: Japanese macaques, or snow monkeys, just hang out in the onsen during the winter days and go home to the forest after nightfall.

"Magical experience: Hiked in on a snowy day. Pleasant, flat, hike on well-packed snowy trail. Note that you can rent rubber boots and other outdoor gear at the trailhead. About 30-40 hike min with kids. It was somewhat crowded but we were all transfixed by the 'human-like' behaviour of the monkeys. You can get really close and take great photos. There is a small visitor center right there - this was nice for warming up and getting the kids some hot chocolate. Some reports mentioned the area being dirty, but with the winterscape everything looked very picturesque. [sic]" - Sbrewgan from Malaysia

Check out Jigokudani, A Paradise on Earth for Snow Monkeys  to learn more about this magical part of Japan!

20. Meiji-jingu (Tokyo)

Meiji-jingu, or Meiji Shrine, is located in the heart of Tokyo near the busy Harajuku district, and is known as one of the best "escapes" in the city due to its peaceful and isolated forest-like feel. It is dedicated to the Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken. Check out th  Half-day tour: Meiji Jingu, Omotesando and observatories  to enlist an expert guide in exploring this must-see area.

"Favorite place in Tokyo: I loved this shrine as it is set in a little forest and you have to walk through the stillness to get there. A little oasis of calm against the crazy fun of Tokyo. The shrine itself was beautiful and I was lucky to see two weddings while I was there - one in the traditional colours and one in white. Really a must see....." - Antcav18 from London

19. Mori Art Museum (Tokyo)

The Mori Art Museum is a contemporary art museum that showcases traveling/temporary exhibits. It is located inside the Roppongi Hills complex, at the top of the Mori Tower.

"Art that feels close to you: The Mori Art Museum's exhibits are mostly contemporary. Even though it's located within the Roppongi Art Triangle, it feels like it's the easiest one to go to. Included in the ticket price is a Tokyo city view (from the Roppongi Hills viewing platform), so after you appreciate the art it's also good to see a beautiful night view." - m1zuk1 from Tokyo

If you're looking to do a tour of Tokyo's museums and galleries, we've rounded up the 11 best picks below!

18. Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum (Nagasaki)

This museum, like its counterpart in Hiroshima, aims to preserve the memory of the victims of the atomic bomb that was dropped on Nagasaki by Allied forces on August 9, 1945. It also details the history of nuclear weapons, facts of their use and the impact they have had and will continue to have. Part of the museum is the Nagasaki National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims, which is the site where the bomb was dropped. 

"A place to learn from human tragedy: A somber place to reflect upon a ugly period of human behavior, to see a first hand account of what happened to the people on the other side of the war. In any war, there were no winners or losers, but human suffering. They did a good job of portraying a landmark teaching the next generations about what could and would happen to them if lessons were not remembered and learned. I commend all the Japanese teachers bringing their students, pupils here to ponder, to absorb, and to learn something they could not have done insides a classroom." - TravelMakesMeHumble from the US

17. Nijo Castle (Kyoto)

Nijo Castle in Kyoto consists of the Ninomaru Palace and the ruins of the Honmaru Palace. It is designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.

"We went to the Castle this afternoon and spent around two hours at the castle complex. We thought it was very good overall, and with a few minor improvements it would've been an excellent place to visit.

We loved the highly manicured gardens and ponds with their rock formations and waterfalls. Some of the castle's architecture externally was simply breathtaking but the interior of the main palace was rather sparse as there were lots of renovation works being undertaken at the time. Not to say it wasn't interesting by any stretch. Also the lack of any information in English did detract from our overall experience during our visit. I think in hindsight we would've really benefited from hiring the English audio guide. 

Overall this was absolutely worth a visit especially to break up the number of shrines the typical Kyoto tourist visits." - Ross P

16. Robot Restaurant (Tokyo)

The Robot Restaurant in Tokyo is located in the somewhat seedy area of Shinjuku's Kabukicho. Rather than having robots serve you and hang around while you eat, the attraction of the kitschy Robot Restaurant is that busty robots (operated by ladies in bikinis) battle each other while you sit in the audience. Our readers can also get a  15% OFF Discount Ticket for Robot Restaurant Shinjuku Tokyo here!

"Random: The robot show is one not to be missed! It was the most random crazy thing we saw in Tokoyo and was quite entertaining. There isn't much of a story line but the lights, dancing, and music keep you engaged. I rated the value slightly lower because we paid ¥7000 and didn't get a bento box. Lonely Planet said the show was ¥4000 which would have been perfect for the value." - Amy T from the US

15. Kenroku-en (Ishikawa)

The Kenroku-en gardens in Ishikawa are one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan that dates back to the 1600s. It was made and kept by the Maeda clan. 

"Consistently amazing: I actually live in Kanazawa and have visited Kenrokuen all throughout the year, and no matter the time of year, it's a beautiful visit. My most recent visit was in winter, so all the trees had Yukizuri, which are like branch support ropes that are beautiful in the snow. This place is a must see no matter what time of year you visit Kanazawa." - Chris S

Ishikawa Prefecture, where Kanazawa is located, is a beautiful part of Japan that has so many amazing things to see and do. We've rounded up 10 Ishikawa highlights below!

14. Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama (Kyoto)

This monkey park is located on Arashiyama and is exactly what it sounds like: a park full of monkeys (Japanese macaques). You can feed the monkeys, though they are wild.

"Worth the hike: Really enjoyed the Monkey Park - it was particularly nice to get out of the city and into some nature. It is very reasonably priced. It wasn't busy when we were there (around 3:30pm on a December weekday) - the views of Kyoto were spectacular and the monkeys were very entertaining. Make sure you also go to the nearby Bamboo Grove - it was illuminated from 5pm when we were there, which was beautiful." - Karen S from Australia

Find out all you need to know about Arashiyama Monkey Park below!

13. Sanjusangen-do (Kyoto)

Sangusangen-do is an active Buddhist temple in Kyoto. Its name literally translates to "hall with thirty-three spaces between columns," which is exactly how the hall was built. Inside, you can see a thousand statues of the housed deity, the Thousand-Armed Kannon, most of which date from the 13th century.

"My favorite attraction in Kyoto - literally 100 Buddhas: We visited the House of a Thousand Buddhas after the much too touristy Fushimi Irani. This was much better than Fushimi Inari. Highly recommend. Kannon, one thousand standing statues of Kannon and one gigantic seated statue in the center of the temple. Statues made of Japanese cypress from 12 and 13th centuries." - marienjnj from the US

12. Matsumoto Castle (Nagano)

Matsumoto Castle is one of Japan's main historic castles and is sometimes called the "Crow Castle" because of its black color. We recommend seeing the beautiful castle and Matsumoto's highlights on this affordable guided tour with Voyagin . TripAdvisor review:

"A highlight: Matsumoto castle is one of those places that really makes your jaw drop when you see it. Big, bold and stunningly beautiful on a blue sky day. My 6 year old son really enjoyed it, and hearing about how the 'ninjas' would defend it with arrows and guns. There is a good display of weapons inside. Make sure you dress warmly and wear extra socks in winter as it was cold inside. But well worth it. if you are like me, you will take a LOT of photos. Don't forget to go back at night and see it lit up." - AlexisGlenn from Australia

11. Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium (Okinawa)

The Churaumi Aquarium - which is named for "chura," or the Okinawan word for "beautiful/graceful," and "umi," the Japanese word for "ocean" - is part of the Ocean Expo Park in Okinawa. It was once the largest aquarium in the world, until 2005. To save having to line up when you arrive, we recommend you get your  tickets for Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium  in advance!

"Best aquarium in Japan: Great location, beautiful design, stunning central tank. The drive up from south/central Okinawa is a chance to see local attractions, experience authentic food and demonstrate your knowledge of Japanese driving laws. Once on site, the extensive parking, wide open design and neighboring beach park will provide half a day or more of fun for any family." - HokkaidoG from Hokkaido

Plan for your trip to Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium by reading our  roundup of the aquarium's highlights ! 

10. Narita-san Shinsho-ji (Chiba)

Shinsho-ji, which dates back to 940, is a Buddhist temple on Mt. Narita (within the vicinity of Narita International Airport). It is comprised of several buildings and grounds, and is one of the most well-known temples in the Kanto area.

"Nice temple close to airport: This temple is not particularly spectacular- there are many spectacular temples in Japan- but it is very close to the airport. Great for long layovers, or when your flight gets canceled and the next one isn't for 24 hours (as happened with us). Simply take the train out and go for a walk. It has beautiful grounds, serene architecture, and typical temple stands and shops around the area." - C0rnmuffin from the US

9. Hakone Open-Air Museum (Hakone, Kanagawa)

This is Japan's first open-air museum, located in the lush, nature-filled area of Hakone. It contains over one thousand pieces of art.

"Art in a park: If you are ever anywhere near the Hakone Open-Air Museum of Art, grab the chance to visit. The setting is stunning with mountains all round it and the artworks are always interesting and often superb. They include two large works on which children can climb and play, a tower of stained glass with a spiral staircase up the inside (called Symphonic Sculpture), a hot-spring footbath, a Picasso building, works by Henry Moore and Antony Gormley and many other well-known artists. We spent an entire afternoon there and only left because they were closing. As others have noted, you need to allow lots of time to appreciate this fabulous museum." - JudoK from England 

8. Shinjuku Gyoen (Tokyo)

Shinjuku Gyoen is another one of Tokyo's famed "escapes" as it is a large garden in the middle of one of the busiest areas of the city. During the Edo period, it was a private residence, but it has come under the control of the Ministry of the Environment. It contains French, English and Japanese garden sections.

"Lovely oasis in the middle of Tokyo: This large park is a quiet retreat surrounded by a busy city of 4 million people. A small admission charge allows one to wander through several different garden themes, over bridges, and around a small lake. Some areas are more wild. Others are very manicured. There is a large grassy area where families can stretch out on blankets and enjoy the peaceful setting. A lovely place to recharge." - bjfast from Canada

7. Kiyomizu-dera (Kyoto)

Kiyomizu-dera is one of the must-see temples in Kyoto and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is easily recognized by its large veranda, which overlooks the mountain the temple stands on. The trees are most brilliant during the fall foliage season. There's so much to see in Kyoto, so why not enlist a local to help you explore? We recommend the  Explore Kyoto: Gion, Kiyomizu, Nishiki Market Private Tour  via Voyagin. 

"Great complex: Despite ongoing renovations and rather cold winter, we had such a good time here. We strolled down the tea pot alley with many interesting shops and restaurants on the way up to the temple. Once we are at the temple, huge crowds even in winter, but we stil were able to enjoy the breathtaking view from the balcony and appreciated this great structure. This is a must visit in Kyoto." - Hendrik0711 from Indonesia

6. Mt. Koya (Wakayama)

Mt. Koya, or Koya-san, is a collection of mountains in Wakayama that is known as the headquarters of the Koyasan (Mt. Koya) Shingon sect of Buddhism. The area is home to several sacred sites, including a pilgrimage route up the range. You can even  receive spiritual enlightenment in the sacred Mt Koya  by participating in a purification ceremony here.

"A wonderful mix of the beautiful and the eerie. I could walk around in here for hours. Surrounded by 100 year old cedar trees and consisting of over 200,000 tombs and monuments for the deceased. It's like nothing else I've ever experienced and would not hesitate to recommend and go back to visit again. I was lucky enough to go on a night walking tour run by a monk and one of the temples, if you get this opportunity then definitely go! It was informative and interesting and he had a good sense of humour." - Rhiannon K   from Australia

5. Todai-ji (Nara)

Todai-ji is a well-known Buddhist temple complex and is also the headquarters of the Kegon school of Buddhism. Its main hall contains the world's largest wooden Buddha statue. As with many places in Nara, wild deer can be seen walking around the grounds.

"It's the largest wooden temple in the world. Its style can be dated back to the Tang dynasty in China. Looking at the giant Buddha makes people feel peaceful. Although the ticket costs a few hundred yens. It's still a must-see in Nara. Personally speaking, it's one of the spots which can represent Nara." - tomespirit from Taiwan

4. Kinkaku-ji (Kyoto)

Kinkaku-ji, or the Temple of the Golden Pavilion, is perhaps one of the most well-known temples in the world. It is a Zen Buddhist temple that is mostly covered in gold leaf and is surrounded by a garden from the Muromachi era, which is when Japanese garden designs flourished. 

"The beauty of Kinkaku-ji is something that will move you. During the fall foliage season, the contrast between the autumn colors and Kinkaku-ji is so stunningly beautiful it will stay with you forever. It makes me think I want to come here again and again." - Morioysu from Tokyo 

3. Itsukushima-jinja (Miyajima, Hiroshima)

Itsukushima-jinja is a UNESCO World Heritage site and, though it contains actual shrine grounds, is most famous in Japan and throughout the world for its large red torii gate, which stands on the shore and appears to float during high tide. If you'd like to gain a deeper understanding of this important spiritual area, we recommend the  Explore Miyajima & Hiroshima Full Day Tour .

"A fairly standard shrine in many ways, but the interesting part about this one is being able to see the tide coming and going from the wooden raised platforms on which the shrine is built. There is a large area from which you get a perfect view across the bay to the "floating" torii gate and there is always a queue for people getting their picture in front of the view! There are also many really interesting bronze statues dotted around, and the usual charms and votive tablets are available." - JenLGH from Tokyo

2. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum (Hiroshima)

The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, like its Nagasaki counterpart, aims to preserve the memory of the victims of the atomic bomb that Allied forces dropped on Hiroshima on August 6, 1945. The museum places a strong emphasis on the elimination of all nuclear weapons and international peace.

"It made me think a lot: This is a place you absolutely have to go to reflect on the war. For those who have never thought about the war before, I think this place will be what makes them begin to think about it. You should go at least once. You will think, from the bottom of your heart, that war is a heartbreaking thing." - Yopaper

Hiroshima is a gorgeous part of Japan with a wealth of attractions. Visit our complete guide to 25 of Hiroshima's highlights. 

1. Fushimi Inari-taisha (Kyoto)

Fushimi Inari-taisha in Kyoto is the head shrine of Inari, the Shinto kami (god) represented by foxes. The shrine can be accessed by going up a mountain through paths covered by torii gates. These paths have been featured in several movies, television series, and anime, including the film Memoirs of a Geisha. 

If you're visiting Fushimi Inari-taisha, why not make a day of it and try a  Kyoto Fushimi 1-day Tour with Sake Tasting  too?

"Beautiful Inari: This is an iconic shrine seen on many travel posters and is a must see if you're in Kyoto. Beautiful vermillion timber archways snake up the mountainside. There's little shops at the bottom selling souvenirs, food and drinks, you can spend the whole day here. Will definitely go back." - Linda M from Australia

Related Articles

Now you've got an idea of some of the most popular sightseeing spots in Japan, you might want to narrow down your area. Check out our more in-depth roundups of things to see and do in popular areas throughout Japan. We've also rounded up some great places to stay as voted by travelers, too! 

• 50 Things to Do in Kyoto
• 50 Things to Do in Wakayama
• 50 Things to Do in Hokkaido
• Top 20 Hotels in Japan as Voted By Travelers

The information in this article is accurate at the time of publication.

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25 Most Beautiful Places in Japan

By Caitlin Morton

Ask anyone who has visited, and they'll tell you: Japan is easily one of the most stunning places in the world. The country offers a full range of nature and culture, from subtropical beaches to snowy mountains, futuristic skylines to ancient temples. And while you could spend a lifetime exploring all of the splendidly whimsical islands and cities , we suggest you start with this list.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Kyoto

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest in Kyoto, Japan

Itsukushima Shrine, Miyajima

Mt. Yoshino

Lake Kussharo, Hokkaido

Hokkaido, Japan

Gion Geisha District, Kyoto

Ashikaga Flower Park, Ashigaka

Fushimi Inari-Taisha, Kyoto

Meguro River, Tokyo

Shirakawa-go Village

Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine and Nachi Falls, Wakayama Prefecture

Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo

Blue Pond, Hokkaido

Himeji Castle

Miyako-jima, Okinawa

Imperial Palace Grounds, Tokyo

Benesse Art Site, Naoshima

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Kyoto

Tama Art University Library, Tokyo

Oyama Rice Terrace, Kamogawa

Hitsujiyama Park, Chichibu

Bioluminescent Rocks, Okayama

Daigo-ji Temple, Kyoto

Tottori Sand Dunes

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During the Edo Period , Kanazawa (����) served as the seat of the Maeda Clan , the second most powerful feudal clan after the Tokugawa in terms of rice production and fief size. Accordingly, Kanazawa grew to become a town of great cultural achievements, rivaling Kyoto and Edo ( Tokyo ).

During World War Two , Kanazawa was Japan's second largest city (after Kyoto) to escape destruction by air raids. Consequently, parts of the old castle town , such as the Nagamachi samurai district and chaya entertainment districts , have survived in pretty good condition.

Today, Kanazawa remains an important city in its region and serves as the capital of Ishikawa Prefecture . The city boasts many historical attractions such as restored residences and districts, as well as modern museums. But Kanazawa's unchallenged main attraction is Kenrokuen , one of Japan's "three best landscape gardens " and by many considered the most beautiful of them all.

Top attractions in Kanazawa

Kanazawa by interest

Getting there and around

Itinerary ideas.

• Stroll through Kenrokuen Garden
• See Kanazawa Castle
• Visit Omicho Market

Questions? Ask in our forum .

Links and Resources

Kanazawa tourist information guide, city of kanazawa, hotels around kanazawa.

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23 Best Places to Visit in Japan

By Carl Pettit

Last updated: June 25th, 2024

• Find a Cruise

At the best places to visit in Japan, ancient traditions and natural beauty are enduring attractions for travelers.

Whether from the vantage point of the archipelago’s most famous mountainscapes, notably Mount Fuji and the surrounding Five Lakes region, or the Tōdai-ji Temple in Nara, home of the Great Buddha, this East Asian country is a treasure trove of distinct heritage.

If you’re looking for places to go in Japan, let your creative imagination run wild with the possibilities, including the inspiring Ninna-ji Temple in Kyoto or the dense forests of Mount Hakkoda, just two highlights of the Land of the Rising Sun.

Nara and the Great Buddha

Tōdai-ji Temple, Nara

In Nara, around 20 miles or so from the megalopolis of Osaka , you can witness ancient human religious traditions and the natural world all melding into one.

Nara was the first permanent capital of Japan in the seventh century and today, it’s full of incredible UNESCO World Heritage sites of immense historical value. Most imposing of all is the Great Buddha, Daibutsu, a colossal bronze statue of over 49 feet tall.

Tōdai-ji Temple’s Vairocana, or “light” Buddha, with construction beginning in 745 AD, exudes an otherworldly presence, a reminder of Japan’s artistic and cultural past and Buddhist traditions today. It’s quite a sight to behold.

Another thing you’ll notice in Nara is the free-roaming deer in grassy Nara Park, and other spots scattered around town. These animals are revered as the sacred messengers of the gods in the Shinto religion, showing just how close Buddhism and Shinto have interwoven with one another in Japanese society over the years.

You will also see plenty of deer at the striking Kasuga Taisha Shinto shrine, painted in vibrant red, which you should check out for more insights into the Shinto faith.

Sensō-ji Temple, Tokyo

Sensō-ji Temple in Tokyo , in many ways, is the ultimate Japanese destination, especially if you’re short on time. The experience of Japan is all squeezed into a single package here: history, religion, culture, and retail opportunity.

Japan’s oldest and most significant Buddhist temple, located in the Asakusa neighborhood of Tokyo , receives up to 30 million visitors annually. If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Japan, perhaps embodying the nation’s spirit, you won’t find many sites better than Sensō-ji.

The first thing you’ll see here is the Kaminarimon or Thunder Gate, and the giant red lantern hanging at the entrance’s mouth. Next, you’ll stumble upon a long shop-lined alleyway called Nakamise-Dori, which will eventually bring you to the temple precinct. This is where you can buy snacks, trinkets, and gifts.

While exploring the vast grounds of the temple, you’ll see the five-story pagoda and the temple’s main hall. Remember, of course, that temples in Japan can get very busy and there may be crowds around.

Sensō-ji will offer you a window into Japanese culture, ancient and religious traditions, as well as modern life focused on shopping, which is a great introduction to Japan as it is today.

Atomic Bomb Dome, Hiroshima

The Atomic Bomb Dome marks the spot of the most tragic 20th-century event in Hiroshima . Once called the Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall, the cultural and historical significance of this building, and site, forever changed after World War II.

On August 6, 1945, a nuclear blast from an atomic bomb detonated in the air directly above this building. Today, the building’s ruins—a UNESCO-recognized World Heritage Site—have been preserved as a memorial and reminder of that dreadful day and its aftermath.

Peace Memorial Park, Hiroshima

Wandering around the Peace Memorial Park is a somber, haunting experience. Before you reach the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, you’ll pass by several monuments and statues telling the story of the bombing and terrible human suffering.

While it’s a heartbreaking experience at times, it’s important to see, to make sure humanity never makes this mistake again.

The park itself, and even the ruins of the dome, are quite beautiful, serving as a reminder of the deep-seated human capacity for preservation and recovery after terrible events. The Atomic Bomb Dome is absolutely one of the best things to do in Hiroshima .

Hirosaki Castle, Aomori

Located near the northern tip of Honshu island, which is the main island of Japan, Hirosaki Castle—Hirosaki jō in Japanese—with its white façade, three levels, sloping, gabled roofs, and stone foundation, impresses with its transcendent beauty.

Hirosaki Castle is also one of the last originally constructed Edo-period castles left in Japan, making it well worth the train or bus ride there.

Japanese castles are quite different from their European counterparts in construction and design. Japanese castles are characterized by wooden construction, with curved, tiled roofs, whereas European castles tend to be made from stone.

The castle is one of the most beautiful places in Japan , surrounded by cherry orchards, offering a lovely natural setting paired with splendid Edo-period architecture.

Cherry blossoms and Japan’s affection for these pink puffball blooms are all part of Japanese culture, which is another reason why Hirosaki jō should make your list of places to go in Japan, especially during blossom season, between March and May.

Rising more than 12,000 feet like a majestic skyscraper, Mount Fuji is Japan’s tallest and most revered mountain, and the country’s signature symbol for its stark natural beauty and long cultural heritage. It even has UNESCO World Heritage status.

When you gaze up at its snow-capped summit, you will be staring at a mountainous landscape that has inspired centuries of poets and pilgrims with its pristine beauty.

Hiking in Mount Fuji

Climbing Mount Fuji, especially during the country’s official climbing season from July to late August and the first part of September, is a bucket-list activity for many people when it comes to the best places to visit in Japan.

This Japanese mountain will give you magnificent vistas and outdoor activities at its Five Lakes region, near the base of this picturesque cone volcano. Discover local outings such as boat rides and soaking in the local hot springs.

For some urban life and culture on Kyushu Island, you can’t go wrong with a visit to Fukuoka. With its bright lights and bustling social scene, Fukuoka is a great spot to head to if you’re fond of Japanese food.

Make sure you try the locally and internationally adored Hakata ramen, pork-flavored ramen with thin noodles, which takes center stage in the city’s culinary space.

In addition to Hakata, Fukuoka is known for its vibrant street food scene, where yatai, or food stalls, offer everything from yakitori skewers and oden hot pot to curry and gyoza. These stalls come into their own in the evening, giving food lovers a front row seat to watch the vendors at work.

For some traditional non-food-oriented sightseeing, you’ll find plenty of historic temples in town, along with exquisite Fukuoka Castle in Maizuru Park, where there are abundant cherry trees.

Shopaholics won’t be left out either, as the Tenjin and Canal City shopping districts will provide you with some of the best things to buy in Japan , from luxury brands to local knick-knacks and traditional goods.

Golden Pavilion, Kyoto

Visiting Kyoto’s Golden Pavilion, Kinkaku-ji, is among the best things to do in Kyoto due to its indescribable beauty and storied history. The top two levels are covered in meticulously crafted gold leaf so that this gorgeous, three-story building sparkles in the sunlight.

The pavilion is also reflected in the glassy pond by which it stands. When the sun rises behind this graceful-looking structure, it creates an extraordinary effect, accenting its calming, golden hues, making it one of the most unique and soothing places to visit in Japan.

The original structure dates back to the 14th century, with each floor of this Zen Buddhist temple composed in a different style, including the buke-zukuri and shinden-zukuri styles.

As you ramble through the meticulously tended Zen gardens here, you can revel in the serene atmosphere of Kinkaku-ji; it’s a great way to take a mental break from a hectic world.

Mount Hakkoda, Near Aomori

Mount Hakkoda, near Aomori

In the cooler, northeastern part of Japan, near the city of Aomori, you’ll find Mount Hakkoda, a series of volcanic peaks that’s a pleasure to take in, especially in spring or summer when the landscape is wreathed in verdant greenery, or fall, when the trees change color.

Hakkoda is a great destination for hiking in Japan , with world-class trails scattered among its dense forests. Footpaths also wrap around fields and slopes covered in alpine flowers.

The Hakkoda Ropeway travels up to the mountain’s summit, offering you sweeping panoramas of one of Japan’s most magical regions.

Read: Why Visit Japan in the Fall

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Kyoto

Kyoto is rich in culture, with over 1,000 Buddhist temples and hundreds of Shinto shrines. Here, you can immerse yourself in a sea of green bamboo at the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, one of the best places to go in Japan.

These swaying, densely packed bamboo stalks, with light dancing through the spaces in between them create a locale with a lush, calming ambiance that also makes for some great photo opportunities.

When you visit, the best advice is to let the bamboo forest sway beside you, and simply take over your senses: sight and especially sound.

Beyond the beautiful forest , other wonders await, like the Rinzai Zen Buddhist Tenryū-ji temple, which is a charming and tranquil site, surrounded by trees and water, plus traditional tea houses, letting you experience some of the best Kyoto has to offer.

Imperial Palace, Tokyo

The Imperial Palace in Tokyo, home to the nation’s emperor, is a place of regal wonder and beauty. As you walk into the Japanese gardens , you’ll notice the moat, walls, ponds, flowers, and trees, all carefully groomed and cared for, especially in the East Gardens.

Then, when you catch sight of the palace itself, you can’t help but be impressed by its stately appearance and white facades.

Try to imagine how the samurai and the ruling class went about their days here in ages past, living lives of leisure and luxury, punctuated by bouts of extreme violence and political intrigue as different groups positioned themselves for power.

The palace rests on the old site of Edo Castle, whose Chidori-ga-fuchi moat, stone walls, and weeping cherry trees are still preserved to this day. You can even rent a small boat and row around the moat yourself.

The flowering season brings the cherry trees and other blossoms into full effect, transforming the East Gardens into a scene that rivals many of Japan’s more popular Sakura viewing sites, making a visit here well worth your time.

Read: Three Days in Tokyo

Goryokaku Fort, Hakodate

Another of the best places to visit in Japan is Goryokaku Fort in Hakodate . This star-shaped citadel, with five sturdy walls rising from the ground and opening up into one other to give the fort its shape, along with the surrounding moat, is truly something unique.

The design of this star fortress is as distinctive as it gets. Originally built as a defensive bulwark in the mid-19th century to protect the once-impregnable island of Hokkaido from Russian invasions, the fort has gained a second life as a pretty park.

In the modern era, Goryokaku Fort, modeled after Western-style forts, doubles up as a popular spot for springtime hanami , or cherry blossom admiration. You’ll find the best views from the fort’s observation tower, which you can climb for sweeping vistas of the fort itself and the surrounding area.

Itsukushima Shrine & Miyajima Island, Hiroshima Bay

Itsukushima Shrine in Miyajima Island, Hiroshima Bay

As you step onto Miyajima Island, also known as Itsukushima, located in Hiroshima Bay, you’ll enter another world, full of nature and divine temples that Japan is known for , all framed by the vast bay and the mountainous backdrop.

Part of the island might appear to your eyes to be floating. The giant red wooden torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine, built in the 12th century, is surrounded by water on all sides at high tide. Today, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Miyajima is also known for its wildlife, especially the island’s free-ranging Sika deer. You can walk through lush forests, then hike up to Mount Misen to get above the tree line for gratifying views of the majestic Seto Inland Sea and surrounding islands.

The island is also rich in local delicacies, the most famous being freshly harvested oysters, which locals like to grill. Should you have a craving for something sweet, you can sample the island’s maple-leaf-shaped momiji manju cakes, which come with different filling pastes.

Sengan-en Garden, Kagoshima

Sengan-en Garden in Kagoshima borders the sea, offering you expansive views of Kinko Bay, or Kagoshima Bay, as well as magnificent vistas of the still active Sakurajima volcano.

The garden, built in 1658, showcases one of the finest examples of Japanese landscaping art on Kyushu Island. As you pass by gates, temples, and ornamental ponds, you’ll be knocked off your feet by the garden’s transcendent beauty.

You can tour the stately house and its inner garden here, built by the Shimadzu family, then wander around the grounds some more, with the backdrop of the volcano purposely incorporated into the area’s design, giving it a majestic appearance.

You’ll also find shrines on site, with one even dedicated to house cats, along with a pretty bamboo grove, interesting rock formations, lots of water features, and the Shoko Shuseikan Museum, detailing the long history of this notable samurai clan.

Mount Rokko, Kobe

Escaping to Mount Roko, or Rokko Saikoho, is one of the best things to do in Kobe if you’re craving fresh air and the countryside.

Depending on your physical condition, you can hike up to the top, although budget up to three hours for the trip. Conversely, you can hop on the ropeway and get to the top in no time at all.

Once you reach the summit, Rokko, shrouded with lush greenery, will offer you extensive views of Kobe, Osaka Bay, and even Awaji Island. There’s a delightful botanical alpine garden near the Rokko Garden Terrace too, filled with an array of plants.

Amble along the scenic hiking trails at or near the apex of Rokko Saikoho, and then head down the mountain and visit the hot springs of Arima Onsen at the base of the mountain for some water-infused relaxation.

Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine, Kyoto

Bathe yourself in a sea of red at Kyoto’s Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shinto Shrine, one of the most iconic places to go in Japan. The shrine is celebrated due to its thousands of vermilion torii gates, which form an impressive pathway leading toward the top of Mount Inari.

As you walk through the seemingly never-ending tunnel of torii gates, you will be immersed in a spiritual experience. The shrine is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice, who is safeguarded by foxes, of which there are many statues here.

If you choose to move beyond the gate-lined trail, you can then trek up to the top of this holy mountain for views of the Japanese city below. Fushimi Inari exudes a dreamlike, otherworldly ambiance, which is unique, even in Japan.

Read: Two Days in Kyoto

Tokyo Tower, Tokyo

One of the most popular destinations for amazing views of Tokyo has got to be the omnipresent Tokyo Tower. Come day or night, when it lights up, it dominates Tokyo’s beautiful skyline .

At 1,092 feet, this famous Japanese landmark resembles the Eiffel Tower in Paris to some degree, providing you with some gorgeous panoramas over the nation’s capital city.

The tower, completed in 1958, offers upper deck tours at the main observatory and the special observatory. These decks are reachable by stairs, or elevators. Stairs are the way to go if your legs are strong enough and you’re up to the challenge.

The main deck features a café, along with a trinket shop for souvenirs, while the top deck will give you views from even higher above, letting you gaze at the incredible cityscape below.

Ryugado Cave, Kochi

When you step inside Ryugado Cave, just to the east of Kochi on Japan’s Shikoku Island, it might feel like stepping into a hidden realm ripped out of the pages of a children’s fairytale.

The cave is one of the nation’s best known limestone formations, offering an ethereal look below the surface of the planet. Book a tour and head into the depths, where you will be gripped by the long passageways, molded by millions of years of geological activity.

The cave, with stalactites dangling from ceilings and water flowing throughout, is brightly lit, and covered by strange rock formations.

Ryugado Cave, located on Mount Sampo, is also a favorite haunt of bats, which you may see hanging upside down from the cave ceilings. You can also visit the Ryugado Museum to learn about the natural history of the cave and some of the wildlife that lives here.

Kobe Harborland, Kobe

If you find yourself in Kobe and want to spend some time by the Taki River, you can’t beat a visit to Harborland. This entertaining locale will provide you with loads of shopping opportunities and fun things to do.

Head for the Umie shopping complex, which has three sections: Mosaic, North Mall, and South Mall. The Mosaic slice of the center is next to the water, where you will find plenty to eat from cafés to extravagant restaurants serving Japanese or international delicacies, along with lots of cute little stores.

The covered South and North Mall sections are where you’ll want to go if you plan on even more shopping, including the culturally fascinating experience of a Japanese department store.

Kobe Port Tower, Kobe

Other attractions worth a look include Kobe Port Tower, with its distinct hourglass silhouette, plus a wonderful observation deck offering city views.

Mosaic’s Ferris wheel is also great for elevated views, while Kobe Brick Warehouse, with its old red brick buildings now converted into shops and restaurants, is perfect for a stroll along the harbor.

Ibusuki Sand Bath, Kagoshima

How about a sand bath? If you’re in Kagoshima, head to the southern part of Kagoshima Prefecture to the town of Ibusuki to experience an Ibusuki sand bath, a unique and rejuvenating spa outing, hard to find anywhere else in the world.

Essentially, a sand bath means you’re going to be buried in sand. You have to lie on the beach and allow the attendees to cover you with a mound of naturally heated black sand , which is the goal of an Ibusuki sand bath. Don’t worry; your head will be left uncovered.

This “bathing” practice dates back centuries and is still used today because people find it so beneficial for their skin, blood circulation, and overall health.

The sand is naturally heated by a local hot spring, which runs beneath this Japanese beach , allowing hot water to seep into and heat the sand.

After your sand bath, you can rinse the volcanic sand from your body, and then amble over to the hot spring for a more traditional soak in some warm, soothing water.

Yokohama Chinatown

Just because you’re in Japan doesn’t mean you can’t experience some Chinese culture as well. And there’s no better place to get a taste of China than Yokohama Chinatown, just to the south of Tokyo.

With hundreds of shops and restaurants, the area’s main attraction lies in its bustling atmosphere; it also happens to be the biggest Chinatown in Japan.

You’ll come across colorful Chinese-themed decorations here, an array of regional cuisine from mainland China, including dim sum and lip-smacking street food like steamed buns, and a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.

The town, while very food-centric, also boasts some ornate gates like the Zenrin Mon Gate, red lanterns strung across the alleyways, and even a few temples, like Kuan Ti Miao, adding to the Chinese-inspired setting.

Kumamoto Castle, Kumamoto

Kumamoto Castle, and the adjacent Sakura-no-Baba Josaien tourist complex, are two related sites in Kumamoto that will take you back in time to feudal Japan, giving you some insight into life as it once was here in the past.

This impressive castle, hit by earthquake damage over the centuries, has somehow survived. And despite being walloped by Mother Nature and enduring a long siege in 1887, the massive stone walls, turrets, and Edo-era architecture have mostly endured, even if in need of restoration work from time to time.

With cherry blossoms, the failed Satsuma historical rebellion, alluring gray stones, multi-tiered rooftops, beautiful grounds, and the Kato Shrine, dedicated to the area’s first feudal ruler, this castle will provide you with a fun and educational visit.

Check out Sakura-no-Baba Josaien nearby, where you can taste authentic Japanese cuisine from small restaurants and cafés. Watch the samurai reenactors and even dress up as a samurai yourself, for an interesting photo opportunity.

Nanzoin Temple & the Reclining Buddha, Fukuoka

Reclining Buddha, Fukuoka

When you visit Nanzoin Temple and the Reclining Buddha in Fukuoka, you will witness one of the world’s largest bronze statues. The Reclining Buddha in question is an astonishing 135 feet long.

The expression on this Buddha’s face is one of deep serenity. The entire complex fosters an air of tranquility..

The temple is an active place of worship and prayer, so guests are asked to be respectful of this fact, even if visiting simply to take a look.

Nanzoin Temple, Fukuoka

You’ll find woodland paths here that will take you to different temples and shrines, as well as Nakamise Street, with nibbles and temple trinkets, and even a tunnel connecting the big Buddha with the Hon-do hall.

Many visitors come to Nanzoin to touch the feet of the Buddha for good luck and fortune, which you might experience, too, if you decide to add this temple to your list of places to go in Japan.

Oirase Gorge, Aomori

For a slice of exalted scenery, highlighting Honshu’s natural beauty, it’s hard to beat Oirase Gorge, near Aomori , one of the most impressive landscapes in Japan.

Walk along the paths next to the crystal-clear Oirase River, with gurgling water and magnificent greenery accompanying you as you navigate the area’s twisting forest trails.

The eight-mile corridor can be enjoyed over a few hours. Depending on the time of year you arrive, you will be treated to a blaze of autumn foliage or earlier in the year, the fresh and verdant flora of spring and summer.

Choshi Otaki waterfall, Aomori

The sound of river bubbling next to the trail and the sight of waterfalls, like the Choshi Otaki waterfall, plus the refreshing forest air instill the region with an ambiance of contemplation, making a visit to this strikingly picturesque part of the country all the more memorable.

Enjoy the beauty of Japan’s dramatic landscapes, incredible islands, and exuberant culture by booking a voyage to the Land of the Rising Sun with Celebrity Cruises. Browse our Japan cruises and plan the journey of a lifetime.

Carl Pettit

Carl Pettit is a musician and writer who has written about culture, finance, food, politics and travel for AFAR, Fodor’s Travel, Yahoo News and many other media outlets. He’s set up permanent camp in more than eight cities (on three different continents) in his life so far, all in an attempt to cure his seemingly incurable wanderlust.

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16 Japanese Cities To Visit Besides Tokyo And Kyoto

• Osaka: Experience incredible nightlife and outstanding cuisine in this seaside city known for its energetic atmosphere and delicious food.
• Naoshima: Discover the art island with its galleries, sculptures, and installations, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and sea views.
• Himeji: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site Himeji-jo castle and explore the picturesque Mount Shosha and Kokoen garden for a diverse cultural experience.

As Japan finally opens its borders to eager travelers after one of the strictest lockdowns that the world has seen, most itineraries focus on the shopping districts of Tokyo and the Buddhist temples of Kyoto. Occasionally, the street food of Osaka might make it to the list.

Few consider venturing beyond the big cities of Tokyo and Kyoto, but for those who dare try, thrilling adventures await in Japan's best cities. From former homes of samurai warriors and current cities of geishas, hot springs spas, traditional architecture, and ski mountains — these cities deserve a spot on everyone’s Japanese bucket list.

UPDATE: 2023/10/09 19:32 EST BY MARIA BOU INK

Japan's beauty is not limited to Tokyo and Kyoto. The country is a hub of wonderful towns that are worth a trip. Therefore, this list was updated to include two of the best cities to visit in Japan besides Tokyo and Kyoto.

Related: Beautiful Tourist Pics Showcasing The Best Things Japan Is Known For

If tourists want to sample some of the greatest cuisine and beverages Japan has to offer, they should head over to Osaka , a seaside city famed for its incredible nightlife and outstanding cuisine. Tokyo's big-city energy is also present here but on a little lesser scale. This way, tourists can visit cities in Japan other than Tokyo and Kyoto while having the same vibes and escaping the crowds. Tourists are recommended to visit the Osaka Castle and Park in between all of their eating and exploring. It is one of the most well-known sights in Japan and is definitely worth visiting.

• Some attractions: Tempozan Ferris Wheel, Universal Studio Japan, Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, etc.

The island of Naoshima, which is reachable via ferry, is a wonderful location. The area is referred to as the art island, and tourists may find galleries, sculptures, and installations everywhere they go, especially if they stay at the upscale Benesse House, which serves as both a hotel and a museum of modern art. On the island, there are two towns, both of which include charming stores and little restaurants. There are also sea views everywhere, which enhances the tranquil atmosphere.

• Some attractions: The Yellow Pumpkin, Chichu Art Museum, Naoshima Public Bath I Love Yu, etc.

Home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site castle , Himeji is worth a special trip for the Himeji-jo castle alone. Widely considered to be the finest example of 17th-century feudal-era Japanese architecture that still survives, Himeji-jo may be the reason tourists visit this city in Japan, but Himeji gives them several reasons to stay. On the outskirts of the city is the picturesque Mount Shosha, with a Buddhist temple at its peak. And if a hike isn’t someone’s cup of tea, tourists can spend a day at the Kokoen garden, which is made of nine walled gardens connected by a network of streams, waterfalls, and ponds and sits on the former feudal lord’s residence.

• Some attractions: Himeji Castle, Engyoji, Himeji Central Park, etc.

Related: Three Days In Japan: 10 Cities You Can Explore In Only 72 Hours

Matsue’s location on a peninsula by the Sea of Japan with Lake Shinji on its west and Lake Nakaumi on the east has given the city another name: The City of Water. While the water bodies that surround it have given Matsue its second name, there are also water bodies within the city. Canals with boat tours for tourists flow through the city, old samurai houses flank its streets, and Matsue is home to one of only twelve medieval castles that are preserved in their original state in Japan. But that’s not all: the city has long attracted curious travelers with its rich myths and legends related to Matsue being the place where Japanese gods descend.

• Some attractions: Matsue-jō Castle, Yuushien, Yaegaki Shrine, etc.

Yokohama is the second-largest Japanese city and the first to have opened its ports to the world at the end of the Edo Period. The port city quickly transformed from a small fishing village to a major city when foreign trade introduced new cultures to the old Japanese traditions of the village. As a result, Yokohama offers a contrast between old and new, and travelers can explore the streets of Yokohama to see the Western influence on the Japanese way of life everywhere. Tourists can visit traditional Japanese gardens and tea rooms, ramen and instant cup noodle museums, giant ferry wheels reminiscent of the London Eye, and one of the largest Chinatowns in the whole country.

• Some attractions: Shin Yokohama Ramen Museum, Yokohama Chinatown, Yokohama Cosmoworld, etc.

For those who like the crowds of Tokyo but wish for a city just a tad more quite than the Japanese capital, Fukuoka’s contemporary attractions make it the ideal city. Fukuoka is Japan’s eighth most populous city and balances urban life with the natural beauty that is synonymous with Japan. The port city is filled with hot springs, hike trails, tea plantations, and sake breweries. But the best part, perhaps, is the fact that Fukuoka happens to be the city that invented tonkatsu ramen , so for those who’d like to slurp their way through Japan via its ramen, Fukuoka has to be the starting place.

• Some attractions: Ohori Park, Marine World, Uminonakamichi Seaside Park, etc.

Hokkaido is an island region of Japan that is known for its hot springs, ski mountains, and volcanoes. Hakodate — located on the island’s southern tip — is one of the largest cities in Hokkaido and was voted Japan’s most attractive city in 2015. Visitors can hike to Mount Hakodate and enjoy spectacular views of the city surrounded by the sea, soak in the hot springs, go down ski slopes, or take in the views of the Mount Komagatake volcano from the lakes of Onuma Park. The best part of the port city, however, is its food. Surrounded by the sea, Hakodate is famous for its freshly-caught seafood, and the Hakodate Morning Market is the best place to enjoy it.

• Some attractions: Goryokaku, Goryokaku Tower, Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward, etc.

Related: After Cherry Blossom Season, Here Are 10 Unique Activities To Enjoy In Japan This Fall

Kyoto isn’t the only city in Japan famous for its Buddhist monasteries and temples. Formerly known as Heijo-Kyo , Nara was once Japan’s capital city and is now home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites . The Horyuji Area of Nara was the first to be on the list and includes 48 Buddhist sites, all of which are of immense importance to the Japanese culture and religion. Also on the list are areas with several temples and historical monuments from ancient times when Nara was still the capital, as well as pilgrimage routes and sites on the Kii Mountain. Tourists can end their tour of the temples and spiritual sites of Nara with a friendly visit to greet the deers at the Nara Park or stroll through Imaicho — a merchant town preserved from the Edo period that will take everyone back in time.

• Some attractions: Today-ji, Nara Park, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, etc.

Nagasaki is most often associated with the atomic bomb and the tragedy that followed. Still, the city has a lot more to offer beyond the Atomic Bomb Museum and the Nagasaki Peace Park, which attract most tourists. Not only is the city home to several stunning islands off its coast, but Nagasaki has consistently ranked on top of the list of places with the best night views in Japan . Travelers can hop onto a ropeway to the peak of Mount Inasa and enjoy spectacular views of Nagasaki as it lights up after sunset. More surprisingly, however, Japan’s first and oldest Chinatown happens to be in Nagasaki, and it has continued to serve Japanese-Chinese fusion foods since the 17th century.

• S ome attractions: Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum, Peace Park, Glover Garden, etc.

For those whose idea of a holiday in Japan includes spending hours soaking in hot water springs, Beppu is the place to be. Beppu’s gushes of hot spring water rank second highest in the world and the highest in Japan, gushing more than 100,000 liters of water each minute through thousands of hot springs. Not only does the abundance of hot springs make Beppu the Onsen City of Japan, but Beppu also has several boiling ponds known as Jigoku or hell. Locals use these Jigoku ponds for cooking food as well, giving rise to a culinary custom known as Jigoku-Mushi, or hell-steaming, that is peculiar to Beppu.

• Some attractions: Kannawa Hot Springs, Beppu Ropeway, Shidaka Lake, etc.

Takayama is several things: A city surrounded by the Japanese Alps, Japan’s ski destination, home to bustling morning markets and festivals dating back to the 1600s, and a place where Japanese tradition flourishes through some of the country’s most beautifully preserved villages. Takayama’s Sanmachi area, in particular, houses preserved thatched-roof houses from which antique dealers and artisans sell their wares, and hidden cafes and brewers dish out hot coffees and icy sake to any visitors who manage to spot them.

• Some attractions: Takayama Jinya, Hida Folk Village, Shinhotaka Ropeway, etc.

The city that served as the seat of the second most powerful feudal clan in Japan during the Edo period, Kanazawa has always been a place of great cultural significance in Japan. More importantly, Kanazawa was the second largest city after Kyoto, which managed to remain safe from the bombings of World War II. As a result, most of the city’s old castles, gardens, samurai, and geisha districts have survived the test of time. That being said, Kanazawa also houses the iconic 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art and is the city where traditional teahouses and crafts, including Kaga-yuzen (a silk dying technique), ohi ware (tea ceremony bowls), and gold leaf production continue to prosper.

• Some attractions: Kenroku-en, Higashi Chaya District, Myouryouji, etc.

Related: Unwind & Relax In Japan: The Best Onsens To Soothe Your Soul

Shirakawa-go

Shirakawa-go is not a city but a traditional Japanese alpine village stuck in time . It is part of a national park and is a great place to visit to see the way things used to be in Japan. Here (and its sister village Gokayama), visitors may feel like they are living in the world of the 2003 movie, The Last Samurai starring Tom Cruise (although it was actually filmed in New Zealand).

These traditional villages are UNESCO World Heritage Listed and are a great example of how Japan works to preserve its heritage.

• Some attractions: Wada House, Gassho-zukuri Minkaen, Myozenji, etc.

Hiroshima is one of only two cities to ever be hit with a nuclear bomb . It is also a testament to how cities can bounce back from destruction, being today a thriving city of over one million people. It was founded in 1589 as a castle town but transformed into a major industrial hub (which made it a target for nuclear bombing).

Today visitors can see the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Hiroshima Peace Memorial and commemorate the bombing wishing for such destruction to never again return to this planet.

• Some attractions: Peace Memorial Park, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, Atomic Bomb Dome, etc.

Sapporo is the capital of Japan's northern island of Hokkaido. It is the largest city north of Tokyo and is considered the cultural and economic center of Hokkaido. The city hosted the 1972 Winter Olympics and is one of the best places in Japan to enjoy the winter season. Come in early February and attend the Sapporo Snow Festival. The festival draws over 2 million visitors from far and wide. Additionally, Sapporo is home to the only beer museum in Japan - the Sapporo Beer Museum.

• Some attractions: Hokkaido Jingu, Moerenuma Park, Sapporo Beer Museum, etc.

Naha is the capital of the Okinawa Prefecture of Japan ( Okinawa is Japan's fifth major island ). The city has a population of around 300,000 and enjoys a humid subtropical climate (quite the opposite of Hokkaido's Sapporo). It is a stunning city and the gateway to Okinawa Island (which Americans may recall from the costly American invasion of the islands in World War Two). One of the top attractions in the city is the restored and rebuilt Shuri Castle (a former royal palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom).

• Some attractions: Shuri Castle, Naminoue Shrine, Okinawa Prefectural Museum & Art Museum, etc.

Japan traveling tips

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written by Dre Roelandt

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Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, there are a few things you should know to make your trip smoother and more fun. From local customs to getting around on public transport, these Japan traveling tips will help you navigate the ins and outs of this intriguing country.

Buy a Japan Rail Pass

Sort out your itinerary, ... but leave space for free time.

• Sort out your budget (you'll need it in Japan)
• Don't just go for the cities

Learn about Japanese culture and etiquette

Learn some japanese words, ... but come prepared for the weather.

• Bring some cash

Carry your trash

Your sim card might not work in japan, hire a guide, watch out for expensive taxi rides.

• Want more Japan traveling tips?

Travel ideas for Japan, created by local experts

Small Group Tour: Splendours of Japan

Discover the allure of Japan on our small group tour (max 16 guests). Unveil Tokyo, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Osaka, and Okayama through guided explorations. Immerse in tea ceremonies and relish in the captivating beauty of these iconic destinations. Regular departures ensure an unforgettable journey.

Small Group Tour: Secrets of Japan

Embark on an exceptional small-group tour, available monthly, unveiling Tokyo, Hakone, Hiroshima, Osaka, Kyoto, and beyond. Uncover Japan's hidden gems, from serene shrines to bustling cities, and immerse in enchanting forests.

Small Group Tour: Highlights of Japan

Exciting small-group tour with monthly departures. Immerse in Japanese culture, challenge a pro in a sumo suit, wander Arashiyama's bamboo groves in Kyoto, and relish a kaiseki feast with Maiko entertainment - all included in this fascinating small group tour.

Japan highlights: Tokyo to Osaka

From Tokyo to Osaka, this Japan trip features fantastic experiences. View a sumo session, visit ancient temples, and climb the Tokyo Skytree tower. Explore the resort town of Hakone in Mt Fuji’s shadow, savor a tea ceremony in Kyoto, and see cherry blossoms, in season, to complete a wonderful trip.

Self-Guided Adventure Tour in Japan

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural beauty, history, enchanting culture and warmhearted people of Japan, with our self-guided tour of Japan. Walk-through a bamboo forest, see how sake is made, join Samurai lesson, go bar-hopping in Tokyo and Osaka and extend your journey to Hiroshima

Culinary tour across Japan

This trip takes you from Tokyo to Kyoto, where you will experience authentic Japanese foods, visit morning markets in the local cities, learn how to make Japanese food and enjoy a unique stay at a monastery. A once in a lifetime experience.

At first glance, the Japan Rail Pass might seem expensive, but it's truly worth every yen. This pass allows you to save a significant amount of money, especially if you plan on traveling extensively using the Shinkansen, or bullet train . 

The pass is available for purchase online, but here's the crucial part: you must buy it  before  you leave for Japan. After your purchase, you'll receive a voucher in the mail. This voucher will come with detailed instructions on how to exchange it for the actual pass once you've arrived.

There are two types: the Green Pass and the Ordinary Pass. If you're travelling with a big group, the Green Pass (first-class) might be worth spending extra money on because the Green Cars are generally less crowded and more comfortable .

Japan traveling tips: buy a Japan Rail Pass  © Shutterstock

One of the most important steps in planning your trip to Japan is sorting out your itinerary well in advance. Booking your accommodations early — ideally more than six months ahead — can save you a lot of money. 

The same goes for restaurant reservations, especially at popular spots. Crowds are a fact of life in Japanese cities especially, and some restaurants require reservations weeks or even months in advance.

Major museums and attractions are also worth buying a ticket ahead of time. If you don’t, you might find impossibly long lines when you arrive.

If you want help creating your perfect itinerary, see our tailor-made trip service . Our trips are designed by local travel experts and are completely customizable. See our Japanese trip ideas for inspiration.

You won’t want to overload your itinerary either. Japan is a place to be savored, not rushed. Jet lag can hit hard (Japan is 9 hours ahead of GMT and 14-17 hours ahead of various US time zones), so leave some free time in your schedule. 

This way, you have time to stroll through serene gardens, take a spontaneous detour into a charming side street, or spend extra time in a café people-watching. 

Japan traveling tips: come during the Cherry Blossom season  © Shutterstock

Sort out your budget (you'll need it in Japan)

Japan is known for being pricey, so it's essential to have a realistic budget. But don't worry — there are options for every budget. Convenience stores, or " konbini ," are great for quick, affordable snacks and meals, and you'll be amazed at the quality and variety they offer. 

Accommodations range from luxury hotels to budget-friendly capsule hotels. Ryokans ( traditional Japanese inns ) offer a unique cultural experience and can vary in price. 

And while high-end dining can be expensive, you can find plenty of budget-friendly options like ramen shops , conveyor belt sushi, and izakayas (casual pubs). Street food, especially in places like Osaka's Dotonbori or Tokyo's Tsukiji Outer Market, is also a delicious and affordable way to experience local cuisine.

Don't just go for the cities

Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto are amazing, but don't miss out on Japan's countryside. Two-thirds of Japan is covered in forests. Staying in the cities means you might miss the charming villages , rice terraces and shrines.

Japan also boasts fantastic beaches, such as those in Okinawa, where you can enjoy crystal-clear waters and even go scuba diving with hammerhead sharks.

If you're visiting in the winter, the Japanese Alps offer some of the best skiing and are absolutely gorgeous. 

Just remember, life in the countryside moves slower, and many places close early (around 5:30 PM).

Cable car at Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, Japan © Shutterstock

For instance, tipping is not customary in Japan and can even be considered disrespectful. 

When using escalators, stand on the left side to allow people in a hurry to pass on the right (except in Osaka, where it’s the opposite). 

It's also considered impolite to eat or smoke while walking; instead, find designated smoking areas and places to sit and eat . Public transport is generally very quiet, even when crowded. Speaking loudly or talking on the phone is frowned upon, so try to keep noise to a minimum.

When making purchases, you will notice that money is not handed directly to the cashier. Instead, you’ll want to place your cash on a small tray provided at the counter in order to be polite.

Photography etiquette varies; while photos are often allowed in Shinto shrines, many Buddhist temples prohibit them. 

Caves in  Dogashima, Nishi-Izu Town © Shutterstock

Although you can navigate Japan without knowing Japanese, learning a few basic phrases can go a long way. Most menus and signs include English, and many Japanese people speak some English. Nevertheless, making the effort to learn and use some Japanese words is appreciated and can make interactions smoother.

 Words like " arigatou " (thank you), " sumimasen " (excuse me/sorry), and " onegai shimasu " (please) are appreciated. The VoiceTra app can help with translations for more complex conversations.

Pack light for your trip to Japan, leaving space for souvenirs like ceramics, traditional clothing, and local snacks. Japan has so many great shopping opportunities , and you won't want to miss out on bringing home some special mementos.

Hotels usually have laundry facilities, and laundromats are common. Plus, public transport has limited space for large bags.

 Moreover, public transport doesn't have much space for large bags. If you have substantial luggage, consider using luggage forwarding services available at most convenience stores and hotels, which can transfer your bags to your next hotel for you. This service is called "takkyubin" and is incredibly convenient.

Yoshinoyama, Nara, Japan spring landscape © Sean Pavone/Shutterstock

Japan's weather is highly variable and can change drastically from one region to another.  Spring (March to May) and  autumn (September to November) are often considered the best times to visit Japan. During spring, you can experience the cherry blossom season, which typically peaks from late March to early April. Autumn is great for it’s pleasant temperatures and stunning fall foliage.

Summer  (June to August) in Japan can be hot and humid, especially in cities like Tokyo and Osaka. If you plan to visit during this season, be prepared for high temperatures and occasional typhoons.

Winter  (December to February) brings cold temperatures and heavy snowfall to areas like Hokkaido and the Japanese Alps.

Bring some cash 

Japan is still largely a cash-based society. Smaller shops and public transport might not accept credit cards, and splitting bills can be tricky due to language barriers. 

Your best bet is to exchange your money at your local bank before your trip to get a better exchange rate than at the airport. Since yen coins go up to ¥500, bring a coin purse to keep your money organized.

While ATMs can be scarce, most 7-Eleven stores have machines that accept international cards, making them a reliable option for withdrawing cash.

Iriomote Island, Japan © Pixabay

Japan is renowned for its cleanliness, and this is partly because public trash cans are rare. You're expected to carry your trash with you and dispose of it at home or in designated areas, where you'll need to separate it for recycling. It’s also polite to wash items before throwing them away to keep public spaces clean.

If you're really struggling to find a trash can, convenience stores like 7-Eleven usually have one, but use them sparingly and respectfully.

Japan’s mobile network can be tricky for foreign visitors. Many international SIM cards don’t work, so consider renting a Pocket WiFi device. 

You can reserve one online before your trip and pick it up at the airport. These devices provide reliable internet access wherever you go and can connect multiple devices. This can be super helpful when you are navigating Tokyo’s city streets, for example.

Shirakawago Village in Gokayama Japan © Mitsuboshi Kaidou

To really see Japan, consider hiring a guide. They can offer local insights, historical context, and cultural explanations that you might miss on your own. 

Guided tours can be especially helpful in places like Kyoto, where understanding the significance of temples, shrines, and historical sites enhances the experience. Some guides also offer themed tours, such as food tours, anime and manga tours, or nature hikes.

Taxis in Japan are clean and efficient but can be expensive, especially at night. Public transportation is much more economical. 

Apps like Hyperdia and Google Maps are great for navigating Japan’s transit system, providing detailed routes and train schedules. Japan's trains are known for their punctuality and efficiency, making them a reliable way to get around. 

Japan traveling tip: Don't miss the countryside like Mount Takao © Shutterstock

Want more Japan traveling tips? 

Planning a trip can take hours of research — why not skip the hassle and instead leave the details to us? Our tailor made trips are designed by local travel experts and are completely customizable to your preferences. We take care of the booking, and you are left to just enjoy your trip, with 24/7 support. See our existing trips for inspiration. 

Dre Roelandt is originally from the United States but lives and works in Berlin, Germany. Dre is a freelance writer and artist with a passion for travelling. They are an in-house Content Editor at Rough Guides.

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There’s no need to tip in Japan. Here’s what else travelers should know.

The Land of the Rising Sun has fascinated travelers for centuries, and this summer is no exception. 

Tokyo is among the top five international cities Americans are visiting this summer, according to Expedia and Google Flights. And with the exchange rate currently so strongly in Americans’ favor, it’s an especially good time to visit if you can take the hot and humid weather .

Before you book your flight though, there are some things you should know. From cultural customs to customs and immigration, here are 10 things to do when visiting Japan.

1. Learn basic Japanese

Some people, particularly in Tokyo, may speak English, but it’s best to learn a few basic phrases in Japanese like “hello,” “excuse me,” “where is the restroom?” and “thank you.” There are free tutorials available across social media and language apps like Duolingo or Babbel. 

You’ll also want to download a free translation app like Google Translate that can handle both verbal and written translation.

2. Fill out the Visit Japan Web form 

U.S. citizens don’t need a visa to visit Japan for stays under 90 days, but you will need to fill out a Visit Japan Web immigration and customs form . Save time by doing this in advance online instead of at the airport when you arrive.

What to know about Tokyo Disney Resort: Why Disney fans will travel all the way to Japan for its theme parks

3. Get a transit card 

A prepaid Suica or PASMO transit card isn’t just for public transportation. It can also be used to pay for things at vending machines, convenience stores and some shops. 

You can download a digital version through Apple Wallet or get a physical card once you arrive in Japan. Just keep it loaded with as much money as you want to spend.

4. Keep cash on hand

Cash is still king in some places, including food stalls and small shops that may not accept credit cards or digital payments. 

You can withdraw cash for low fees and fair exchange rates from ATMs at Japanese convenience stores like 7-Eleven. A Suica or PASMO card can tide you over until you can get to an ATM.

5. Skip the tip

There’s no tipping culture in Japan. In fact, some servers have been known to follow customers out and return tips like they were accidentally left behind. Instead of tipping at restaurants, offer thanks. 

Before eating, it’s customary to say “ itadakimasu ” like a quick prayer to show appreciation for the food and those who grew it. When you leave, you can say “ gochisousama deshita ” to staff to show gratitude for the meal.

6. Stand aside on escalators

In Tokyo, people stand to the left of escalators and keep the right side open for others walking up or down the moving steps. In Kyoto, like in most U.S. cities, people stand on the right. Don’t worry about trying to remember which side to stand on. It will be immediately clear once you’re there. Just do what everyone else is doing and don’t block foot traffic.

7. Keep the noise down on trains

It’s considered rude to talk on your cell phone or play music or videos out loud on subways and trains. You may hear some small groups of friends chatting, but many commuters keep quietly to themselves.

8. Wear or carry socks

Some places, like temples or restaurants with tatami mats, may require you to remove your shoes. If you’re not wearing socks, you may want to carry a clean pair with you, just in case.

9. Prepare to bare all at onsens

If you’re not comfortable sporting your birthday suit around others, you may want to skip public hot springs. Swimsuits and other garments aren’t allowed in the communal water. Some onsens may also bar tattoos or ask guests to cover them up with a patch. However, there are some tattoo-friendly onsens as well as private onsens available.

Additionally, it’s customary to shower before entering the springs to keep the water clean.

10. You’ll have to wait to open some souvenirs

If you plan to load up on Japanese beauty products, snacks and other consumables to take home, you can buy them tax-free at stores like Don Quixote, but they’ll seal them in a bag indicating they were purchased without paying tax. You can’t open the bag until you leave Japan. 

Bonus: Eat all the things, including at convenience stores or vending machines

From egg salad sandwiches to fresh onigiri rice balls, there’s so much good, affordable food in Japan. Don’t miss the delicious and cheap treats at Japanese convenience stores like 7-Eleven, Lawson and Family Mart. The same goes for the wide variety of readily available vending machines selling cold and hot drinks, depending on the season. 

Foreign tourists in Japan are being charged more than locals at some restaurants and attractions

As a record number of Australians head to Japan, some restaurants and tourist attractions have started implementing two-tiered pricing systems for visitors and locals.

Japan's weak currency is attracting tourists in droves, but it's pushing up costs for local businesses.

All-you-can-eat seafood restaurant Tamatebako, located in one of Tokyo's busiest districts Shibuya, is one of the restaurants charging different prices for residents of Japan and tourists.

A note in Japanese at the bottom of the eatery's menu says Japanese residents receive a 1,000-yen ($9.50) discount.

"Regular" pricing for the all-you-can-eat and drink seafood buffet is 8,778 yen ($83), while those with proof of residency in Japan can have the same meal for 7,678 yen ($73).

Restaurant owner Shogo Yonemitsu told the ABC the influx of tourists had forced him to employ English-speaking staff who were paid a slightly higher wage.

He said the price difference also took into account the "extra labour of teaching foreigners the right manners at Japanese restaurants".

Imposing the extra costs created by tourists onto locals would be unfair, he said.

"We have also experienced many tourists cancelling at the last minute, which very few Japanese people do," he said.

Weak Japanese yen

Dragged down by Japan's low inflation and interest rates, the yen has lost about a third of its value compared to the US dollar since 2021.

The currency's weakness has made Japan an attractive destination for travellers.

According to the Japan National Tourism Organisation, the number visiting Japan has surpassed pre-pandemic levels of visitors every month since January of this year.

A record 252,900 Australians travelled to Japan between January and March compared to 172,896 the same period in 2019.

That included 82,000 in March, which was almost double the number in March 2019.

However, the weak yen has also made the price of imports such as food higher, forcing restaurants to either increase prices or cop the costs.

Yonemitsu said the Japanese government had failed to provide any support for restaurants to keep up with demand and increasing costs due to the weakening of the yen.

When asked about the reaction from customers Yonemitsu said, "our customers come knowing our pricing system, so it hasn't caused any issues."

Tourist hotspots' two-tiered pricing

It's not just restaurants that are implementing tiered pricing.

UNESCO World Heritage site Himeji Castle in western Japan is considering quadrupling the entry prices for foreign tourists.

The mayor of Himeji city, Hideyasu Kiyomoto, said in a press conference he supported differential pricing.

"Foreign tourists come here once in their lifetime, but locals enjoy this place regularly," he said.

Japan's iconic Mount Fuji introduced a mandatory 2,000 yen ($19) climbing fee in May, but some have called for the fee to be increased for tourists.

Mountaineer Ken Noguchi said the fee was not high enough to combat over tourism.

"Tourists should pay 30,000 yen ($284), while locals pay 10,000 yen ($95)," Noguchi said in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Japanese politicians such as Kenta Izumi also voiced their support for two-tiered pricing.

Stagnant wages

While the weakening of the yen has allowed inbound tourists to be able to spend more in Japan, the country's stagnant wages has meant locals' purchasing power has remained relatively low.

Wages in Japan have barely increased in the past 20 years, with the average minimum wage still only 1,004 yen ($9.52) per hour in 2023, according to the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare of Japan.

"The two-tiered pricing system could be a way to keep restaurants accessible for locals instead of being priced out," said Garth Lean, a senior lecturer in tourism and heritage studies at Western Sydney University.

"But it might mean that for tourists it becomes a more expensive experience, and they might feel taken advantage of," said Dr Lean.

The Japanese cabinet has released a white paper on tourism to address the growing concerns about over tourism.

It said the government would support increased efforts to create sustainable solutions to the problem.

The Japan National Tourism Organisation told the ABC that "generally speaking, tourists should pay whatever is deemed an appropriate price during their travels in Japan."

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Are Tokyo’s public toilets the new tourist attractions? Here are 13 unique ones worth visiting

Advertisement.

Tired of crowded and overhyped tourist attractions in Tokyo? Why not join a toilet tour in Shibuya? CNA Lifestyle visited a few of these facilities under the Tokyo Toilet Project that left us flushed with excitement.

Japanese toilets designed by Shigeru Ban and Kazoo Sato (Photos: CNA/Jasper Loh)

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A few months back, I caught the film Perfect Days. The Oscar-nominated movie by renowned director Wim Wenders followed a Japanese toilet janitor who performs his job with pride and dedication – and featured some cool-looking restrooms in Tokyo.

Now, I normally don’t give public toilets a second thought – I walk in, take care of business, wash up and walk out. But the toilets in the movie, which I later learned was part of something called the Tokyo Toilet Project (TTP) , got me so intrigued that I decided I wanted to check them out during my Japan trip earlier this month.

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THE TOKYO TOILET PROJECT

Launched in 2020 by The Nippon Foundation non-profit organisation, the TTP’s aim was to promote the use of public toilets and remove the stigma of them being dark, unsafe and unsanitary, especially for children and women.

Sixteen world class designers, architects and creatives such as Tadao Ando, Kengo Kuma, Shigeru Ban and Nigo were tasked to redesign and improve the accessibility of 17 public toilets situated around the Shibuya district  – which explains why many of them look like art installations.

And as I eventually found out, you can actually take a tour of these toilets. Nearme , a shuttle service provider, organises twice-weekly tours. For ¥4,950 (SG$42.50), you can take your pick from two routes: The East or the West course. The West course, which I took, features nine toilets while the East route has eight. Each tour takes about two hours.

Here’s a roundup of the locations I visited. Plus a few more I randomly stumbled upon. Happy toilet hunting!

1. NABESHIMA SHOTO PARK TOILET (KENGO KUMA)

Architect Kengo Kuma wanted to make this public facility a site to connect people with nature. Situated near a playground that overlooks a lush greenery of trees, the toilets resemble a village hidden within a forest. There are five cubicles, all covered up with planks of cedar wood, lending them a raw, rugged feel.

2. YOYOGI FUKAMACHI MINI PARK TOILET (SHIGERU BAN)

Pritzker Prize winner Shigeru Ban has two toilets on the list and both feature a new technology that lets users know if a toilet is in use or not – when the door is lock, the glass panels turn opaque to ensure privacy.

3. HARU-NO-OGAWA COMMUNITY PARK TOILET (SHIGERU BAN)

His second toilet employs the same technology and the only difference between the two are in the shades used on the glass panels – this one goes from a cool shade of turquoise green to blue while the former goes from warm orange to purple.

4. JINGU-DORI PARK TOILET (TADAO ANDO)

Architect and Pritzker Prize winner Ando described public toilets as a place where people can seek refuge. With that concept, he created a circular minimalist toilet with the walls made of vertical metal blinders for better ventilation. The rounded canopy is extended out and acts as a place for Amayadori, meaning “waiting out the rain” in Japanese. The overall design is both thoughtful yet functional.

5. YOYOGI  HACHIMAN PUBLIC TOILET (TOYO ITO)

Located beneath a hilly walk up the Yoyogi Hachiman shrine, the restrooms here used to be dark and uninviting. Pritzker Prize winner Toyo Ito wanted to make the toilets well lit, so users need not worry about using it at night. He designed the space as a cluster of three mushroom-like towers that look like they’re sprouting out of the ground. The brown gradient tiles represent the energy of earth rising to the sky.

6. NISHIHARA ITCHOME PARK (TAKENOSUKE SAKAKURA)

The three unisex restrooms here feature bright green doors that are at once calm and welcoming. The word Andon translates to paper lantern in Japanese. And that’s what the toilets look like. At night, the frosted glass printed with trees glows like a lantern when lit. Takenosuke Sakakura’s intention was to give people feel a sense of serenity and assurance when using the facility.  

7. NANAGO DORI PARK TOILET (KAZOO SATO)

Named Hi Toilet , the white spherical shape of the structure looks like a scene right out of a sci-fi movie. With Hi Toilet, Kazoo and his team aimed to make this the world’s most hygienic toilet using voice control technology. Users can open the door, change the color of the lights, flush and even play music, all without making any form of physical contact. The globe shape also allows for better air circulation and keeps the toilet from smelling bad.

8. NISHISANDO PUBLIC TOILET (SOU FUJIMOTO)

Sou Fujimoto embraced a playful approach to his design. He wanted the toilets to feel like an urban water fountain in the city and a vessel that serves everyone. The concave sink at the centre feature taps of different heights so that users of all ages can wash their hands conveniently. The cut-through path across the structure also creates a sense of openness and safety for the public.

9. JINGUMAE PUBLIC TOILET (NIGO)

Japanese fashion designer, DJ record producer and entrepreneur Nigo designed the toilet near Harajuku where Japanese street fashion originated. Simple yet playful, he approached the design of the restroom based on comfort and easy accessibility. The structure, partially surrounded by white fences and mint green doors, resembles how one would doodle a house as a child.

10. SASAZUKA GREENWAY PUBLIC TOILET (JUNKO KOBAYASHI)

Built just beneath the Keio line Sasazuka train station, the group of weather resistant cylinders are constructed with a yellow canopy to counter the claustrophobic feeling of being located under the train tracks. While the exterior looks rusty and worn out, the restrooms feel bright and clean. The cute bunnies peeking out of the wall light up at night, giving out a playful vibe.

11. HATAGAYA PUBLIC TOILET (MILES PENNINGTON/ UNIVERSITY OF TOKYO DLX DESIGN LAB)

British designer and professor Miles Pennington, together with the University of Tokyo DLX Design Lab, wanted to build a restroom that not only serves its function, but also doubles up as an area to bring the local community together. The structure is designed such that it can also be used as a space for events or pop ups.

12. HIGASHI SANCHOME PUBLIC TOILET (NAO TAMURA)

Product designer Nao Tamura’s approach her design as traditional Japanese gift wrapping, with the intention for users to feel safe and have a sense of privacy. Striking red is used on the exterior because it attracts attention, and she hopes that it will also deter unlawful acts.

13. EBISU EAST PARK TOILET (FUMIHIKO MAKI)

Located near a playground that has long been a part of the local community, Pritzker Prize winner Fumihiko Maki designed the facility as a white pavilion with curvy roof as well as a little courtyard at the centre that is bright airy and a place for resting. This place is also known as the Squid Toilet because the park was formerly known as Octopus Park due to the octopus-shaped slides in playground.

While I didn’t manage to visit all the toilets under the TTP, the experience was more than enough to give me a better understanding of Japan’s cultural values and innovative designs (not to mention their outlook on hygiene). Hopefully, it inspires other cities and organisations to rethink these often overlooked and undervalued public places.

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