must visit spots in japan

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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.

Shirakawa-go and Gokayama

This metropolis is a feast for the senses. Neighborhoods like Ginza and Akihabara buzz with flashing lights and larger-than-life shopping, while Meiji Jingu 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 1,500 Buddhist temples and around 400 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.

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 30-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.

Situated 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 (often compared to New York City's Times Square ), check out the reconstructed 16th-century Osaka Castle or head to contemporary sights like Universal Studios Japan and the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan.

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.

As Japan's second most populous city, Yokohama is often touted as a more approachable and more affordable alternative to Tokyo (located about 20 miles north). 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). In Yokohama, visitors can explore Minato Mirai 21, the city's modern central district teeming with skyscrapers and shopping malls, and visit museums ranging from the Cupnoodles Museum to the Mitsubishi Minatomirai Industrial Museum.

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 Buddha statue 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.

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 variety of flowering trees that add beauty to any season, Kenrokuen is often described as one of Japan's most beautiful gardens.

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. While you're here, spend some time enjoying the area's museums and amusement park, and in winter, take a relaxing soak in the onsen after skiing Mount Fuji's slopes.

After a magnitude 6.9 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.

Best known for their centuries-old gassho-style houses (named for their resemblance to praying hands), the remote Japanese villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama are a must-visit for history buffs seeking an off-the-grid travel experience. Ogimachi, Shirakawa-go's largest village, features farmhouses that date back more than 250 years old, some of which have been turned into museums, restaurants and minshuku (Japanese bed-and-breakfasts). In Ainokura, Gokayama's largest village, travelers can test their paper-making skills at a washi workshop. What's more, with a convenient location a mere 40 miles southeast of Kanazawa, this mountainous UNESCO World Heritage Site makes for an excellent day trip.

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, local shops, traditional residences and buildings that date back to the feudal ages. Then, head to the Hida Folk Village, a former farming village home to around 30 gassho-style houses from the Edo period. 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.

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 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.

Head to the smallest of Japan's four main islands if you're looking to get off the beaten path. The island is best known for its Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage – a nearly 750-mile loop that covers many of Shikoku's sacred sites. Whether you're trekking this path or forging your own, you'll encounter Shikoku's natural beauty (think: forest-covered mountains and an unspoiled coastline). Meanwhile, the city of Kochi features delicious eats at the Hirome Market and a well-preserved castle. And if you're visiting in mid-August, you can't miss Shikoku's cultural pinnacle, Awa Odori. This dance celebration in Tokushima is one of the most famous festivals in Japan.

Mountainous Hakone is one of Japan's most popular hot spring destinations. Nestled within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, the town features more than a dozen 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. And don't forget to pencil in time for enjoying spectacular views of Mount Fuji from Lake Ashinoko and the Komagatake Ropeway.

Hokkaido island's capital city is perhaps best known for its ties to the 1972 Winter Olympics. It's hardly surprising, then, that Sapporo's main draw is its winter activities. In addition to featuring top-notch ski slopes, the city hosts the Sapporo Snow Festival – with large, elaborate snow sculptures – every February. Plus, Sapporo offers a variety of tasty brews and bites. Learn about the city's beer and the brew making process at the Sapporo Beer Museum. Then, grab a bowl of ramen in the Susukino entertainment district. Have more of a sweet tooth? Visit chocolate-themed Shiroi Koibito Park.

An outdoor-lover's delight, Matsumoto is roughly 30 miles east of Kamikochi, a breathtaking 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. 

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 can be reached in less than an hour by ferry 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.

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

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Izu Peninsula

Chubu Sangaku National Park

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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.

Imperial Tokyo

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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.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

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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24 of the most beautiful places you should visit in Japan

Aside from culture and tradition, Japan also offers some of the world's most spectacular landscapes. Here's your Japan bucket list

It’s no secret that Japan has a stunning amount of beauty. From the lavender fields of Furano in Hokkaido down to the crystal clear beaches of Okinawa , this small country is filled with gorgeous nature , contemporary museums , mountainside temples and of course, those pretty springtime  cherry blossoms  and colourful autumn leaves .

With so much to see, it's impossible to do Japan justice with just one visit. This explains why people miss Japan  more than any other country in the world. So this extraordinary island archipelago definitely calls for repeats visits – how else are you going to see all these 24 beautiful sight in Japan?

Recommended: The most beautiful festivals in Japan  

Kiyotsu Gorge and the Tunnel of Light, Niigata prefecture

Niigata prefecture’s Kiyotsu Gorge is a massive natural marvel with volcanic columns, called columnar jointing, overlooking a dramatic river view. After the walking trails were deemed unsafe and closed to the public in 1988, Ma Yansong and the MAD Architects team built the Tunnel of Light , a 750m-long tunnel leading out to the gorge, so visitors can safely view its panoramic beauty. 

Kamikochi, Nagano

A lush green plateau on the Nagano prefecture side of the Northern Japanese Alps, Kamikochi offers some of Japan’s most spectacular mountain scenery with minimal hiking effort. Most visitors just hover around Kappabashi (Kappa Bridge) and for good reason. For one, the bus stop is just nearby. But more importantly, here you get to take in the grand view: a wooded riverbank surrounded by a fortress of mountains, which in autumn blushes in shades of yellow, orange and red.

Beat the crowd by starting at the quiet Taisho Pond, whose pristine surface in the early morning mirrors its gorgeous surroundings. From here, it’s an easy hour-long hike through marshlands to Kappabashi, where you can break for a meal at one of several cafés and restaurants. For day trippers, you can then go further into the forest; another 90 minutes’ walk will take you to the atmospheric Myojin Pond.

Oirase Gorge, Aomori

This picturesque gorge in the mountains of Aomori is one of Japan’s top autumn destinations. The 9km-long trail from Ishigeo to Nenokuchi at the mouth of Lake Towada is breathtaking – not that it’s a strenuous hike but because of the gorgeous scenery all along the way. The gushing Oirase Stream snakes through a blazing red and orange forest studded with moss-covered boulders, with multiple waterfalls feeding into the running water. It’s Japanese autumn at its best.

Set aside three hours for a one-way trek, and you can hop on a sightseeing ferry at the end of the trail at Nenokuchi for more autumn foliage along Lake Towada. Though you’d need some good stamina, don’t worry if you can’t do the entire nine kilometres. There are bus stops on the road running alongside the stream, where you can catch a ride to any point on the trail. 

Kinkakuji Temple, Kyoto

Otherwise known as the Golden Temple, Kinkakuji is a Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold, a miraculous and shiny site in the middle of traditional Kyoto. In fact, the temple is so beautiful that a young monk attempted to burn it down in 1950, inspiring Yukio Mishima’s famous novel ‘The Temple of the Golden Pavilion’. First, you walk along a path to see the temple and its reflection before you eventually see it close up, so be prepared for multiple photo ops. Head there in the early morning or late afternoon for smaller crowds and less glinting from the gold leaf.

Mt Fuji, Yamanashi

Japan’s crown jewel and arguably the most beautiful place in the country, Mt Fuji is a must for any visitor. There are plenty of places to see the grand mountain, but the views from Arakurayama Sengen Park, which boasts the majestic Chureito Pagoda, and from Lake Kawaguchi best capture its beauty.

Lake Kawaguchi, one of the Fuji Five Lakes, has glorious views of Mt Fuji, especially in winter when the sky is mostly clear and you can see the volcano’s reflection in the water. Having said that, the near-perfect symmetry of Mt Fuji is a spectacular sight year-round, regardless of where you see it from.

Shirakawa-go, Gifu prefecture

Deep in Gifu prefecture lies Shirakawa-go, a perfectly preserved Japanese village and Unesco World Heritage Site, filled with traditional gassho-zukuri style farmhouses known for their thatched, triangular roofs that resemble praying hands. Now, most of the farmhouses have been converted into museums, restaurants and even hotels, but visitors can still explore the inside of the houses to admire the idiosyncratic architecture, held together by wooden beams. The houses are especially picturesque in winter – all covered in snow, they look like gingerbread houses. 

Motonosumi Shrine, Yamaguchi

Tunnels of vermilion torii gates are a common sight in Japan. There’s Fushimi Inari in Kyoto and Nezu Shrine in Tokyo, but Motonosumi Shrine in the seaside town of Nagato is the most picturesque. A relatively new shrine, built in 1955, it consists of 123 torii gates that lead down dramatic cliffs, with spectacular ocean views to boot. Unlike most shrines where you just toss a coin into an offering box, here you’ll have to shoot your donation into a box at the top of the final torii gate, which stands six metres tall. If you make it, your wish might just come true.

Narai, Nagano

Along the historic Nakasendo, the mountainous route which connected old Edo (present-day Tokyo) with Kyoto, is Narai, a post town in the picturesque Kiso Valley. This is one of the best places to catch a glimpse of Edo-period (1603-1868) life, as most of this then-prosperous town is so well-preserved that its wooden buildings stretch for a 1km block. Many of the heritage houses have been adapted into restaurants, minshuku (Japanese bed and breakfast) and stores while two former residences – Nakamura Residence and Kamidonya Shiryokan – are preserved as they were back in the day. Narai is incredibly photogenic in autumn, when bright foliage lights up the surrounding Kiso mountain range.

Kumano Kodo, Wakayama prefecture

Unesco-designated pilgrimage trails make up the Kumano Kodo on the Kii Peninsula in Wakayama prefecture. The 70km route leads through dense, lush forest and stops by plenty of ancient shrines and temples. One of the most famous destinations is the Kumano Nachi Taisha, which boasts a three-storey vermillion pagoda and Nachi no Taki, which, at 133m, is the tallest waterfall in Japan. 

Takachiho Gorge, Miyazaki

The breathtaking Takachiho Gorge in Miyazaki is best seen from the water – you can rent a small rowing boat and take a romantic cruise down the calm Gokase River. This is no paddle in the park, though: the gorge is filled with natural wonder and you’ll be surrounded by lush maple trees and the dramatic 17m-tall Minai-no-taki waterfall. Prefer to stay on dry land? The gorge is still beautiful from above – hikers can walk along the 1km Takachiho Promenade for a landscape view, best enjoyed during the summer illumination or the vermillion autumn foliage.

Himeji Castle, Hyogo prefecture

Himeji is perhaps Japan’s most famous castle. It even served as the basis for this emoji: 🏯. Also known as the White Heron, Himeji Castle is a giant, stark white structure that has miraculously survived wars and natural disasters. The castle dates back to the 17th century but was restored in 2015, allowing visitors inside to admire the refurbished architecture. If you’re planning on visiting, bookmark the official website for live queuing times. 

The beaches of Ishigaki, Okinawa

Imagine a white sand beach with water so crystal clear you don’t even need snorkelling gear to see the fish. There’s no need to use your imagination in the tropical paradise of Okinawa, a string of islands between Japan and Taiwan. Of the 49 inhabited islands, Ishigaki is easily one of the most scenic, with a mix of mountains, jungles and sandy beaches to satisfy both the active and adventurous, and those who prefer lounging on the beach. Spend the day tanning and swimming at Yonehara Beach or have a look at sea critters in azure waters on Kabira Bay, where you can take a glass-bottom boat tour.

A Forest Where Gods Live at Mifuneyama Rakuen Park, Saga

The sprawling Mifuneyama Rakuen Park in Saga prefecture was created more than a century ago in 1845, but teamLab has taken it into the future with edgy, immersive digital art that changes the way we interact with nature.

As a whole, the grounds now look like an enchanted forest after dark, with different exhibits scattered across the property. There’s a surreal projection of a silent waterfall in a secluded part of a jungle. A rolling garden of azalea shrubs pulses with lights as if the plants were breathing. In the darkness of the night, trees take on an otherworldly glow, holographic carp swim across a lake, digital flowers bloom on rocks while strokes of calligraphy appear like a painting in formation across a sacred boulder. It’s magic and there’s nothing quite like it anywhere in the world.

Hill of the Buddha at Makomanai Takino Cemetery, Hokkaido

Leave it to starchitect Tadao Ando to create beauty out of loss and grieving. Ando designed Sapporo’s circular Makomanai Takino Cemetery around a giant 13.5m-tall statue of the Buddha, letting his head peak out from the top of an artificial hill. The industrial concrete, Ando’s signature material, contrasts with lavender surrounding the cemetery, and covers the Buddha’s body. The only way to see the full sculpture is by entering the hollow 40 metre ‘hill’ through a dark tunnel. When you reach the (natural) light at the end of the tunnel, you’ll see the ever graceful Buddha sitting before you. Jaw, dropped.

Yakushima, Kagoshima

Off the coast of Kagoshima prefecture is Yakushima, a nature lover’s paradise. The best way to see the small island, which inspired the setting of the Ghibli film ‘Princess Mononoke’, is through multi-day treks: you’ll forget about the absurdities of modern life as you hike the moss-covered dirt tracks and admire yakusugi, the oldest surviving trees in Japan, more than 1,000 years old. There are multiple trails catering to different experience levels, from an easy-peasy one-hour hike to an exhilarating 20-hour overnight journey. Highlights include the overnight trek to see the ancient Jomonsugi cedar tree, estimated to be between 2,000 and 7,200 years old.

Naoshima, Kagawa

Off the coast of Kanagawa prefecture, in between Okayama and Shikoku Island, the Seto Inland Sea is home to a row of small islands dedicated to contemporary art. The six ‘art islands’ are Teshima, Naoshima, Inujima, Megijima, Ogijima and Shodoshima – but if you’re short of time, Naoshima is the pick of the bunch.

A trio of Tadao Ando-designed museums on Naoshima – Chichu Art Museum, Benesse House Museum and Lee Ufan Museum – were built in an industrial style, making them surreal sights in the midst of nature. Meanwhile, the Art House Project, which showcases Japanese and international artworks in refurbished traditional homes, preserves the charmingly rural and old-school vibe of the island.

No trip to Naoshima is complete without a photo in front of Yayoi Kusama’s ‘Pumpkin’, which sits against the backdrop of a clear blue sky and sea. This beautifully framed sight has become an endearing image of the ‘art islands’.

Zao Snow Monsters, Yamagata

Zao is not only one of the best ski resorts for those hitting the slopes, it’s also home to picturesque scenery straight out of a winter fairy tale – or a horror film. The slopes are lined with trees covered in snow and warped from the wind, so they look like gigantic, mutated snowmen. The monsters are even celebrated with their own festival in January, complete with illuminations and fireworks.  

Ogasawara Islands, Tokyo

Just a hop, skip and 24-hour ferry ride away from Tokyo, you’ll find the Ogasawara Islands, a group of islands sporting some of the best snorkelling, hiking and sandy beaches in Japan. Chichijima, one of the main islands, is a popular spot for dolphin and whale watching. The islands are truly remote, so you’ll get to relax, disconnect and enjoy the subtropical climate far from the bustling city. Minamijima, off the coast of Chichijima, is only accessible by tour guide, but the eccentric rock formations and white sand beach are definitely worth the extra effort.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Kyoto

Sure, Arashiyama can be touristy, but there’s nothing more soothing than the sound of bamboo slowly swaying in the wind. Head to the bamboo grove early in the morning (it’s open 24 hours) to avoid the crowds. Don’t miss out on Tenryuji Temple, a Zen temple with a relaxing landscape garden, and Nonomiya Shrine, which appeared in ‘The Tale of Genji’ – both are inside the grove. 

Kurokawa Onsen, Kumamoto

There are many hot spring towns in Kyushu but only Kurokawa Onsen makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. You won’t find large hotels or tacky advertising hoardings here; the town has retained its original atmosphere with wooden ryokan in the valley around Mt Aso.

Unlike flashy onsen towns filled with tour buses and visitor attractions, the focus at Kurokawa Onsen is simply the baths. You can enjoy nature while soaking in the steaming water at the outdoor baths, called rotenburo . Or hop through three different public and private onsen with the wooden ‘Rotemburo Meguri’ pass for ¥1,300. The town is best explored in a yukata after sunset, once all the day bathers have left, especially during the winter bamboo illumination from December to April.

Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island, Hiroshima

This small island off the coast of Hiroshima is known for its deer, bright autumn leaves and Itsukushima Shrine, a large Shinto structure with a grand vermillion torii gate standing in the ocean. Spend the whole day on the island to see the torii gate in both high and low tides: at high tide, the entire shrine seems to magically float in the blue water, while at low tide, you can walk all the way up to the gate.

Long established as a place of Buddhist and Shinto worship, Itsukushima Shrine was founded in the year 593, and it is believed Miyajima is where the gods live. The island feels like a slice of paradise; you can spend the day frolicking with deer, hiking through maple leaves in the mountains or just sitting on the shore and watching the sun set behind the torii gate.

Yamadera Temple, Yamagata prefecture

A 30-minute, 1000-step uphill hike will lead you into the Yamadera Temple complex, a small collection of Buddhist halls on the side of a mountain. Climb a few storeys higher and you’ll find Godaido Hall, a small vantage point that looks out into the countryside of Yamagata. Especially picturesque in summer and autumn, you’ll see fog rolling through the hills as you gaze at one of the best hiking views in Tohoku. 

Hitachi Seaside Park, Ibaraki

All flower lovers should add Ibaraki’s Hitachi Seaside Park to their bucket list. Best known for its blue sea of approximately 5.3 million nemophila in spring, and bright red kochia or summer cypress in autumn (pictured), Hitachi Seaside Park also grows California poppies, roses, daffodils and even sports a Holland-inspired tulip garden. The fun doesn’t stop with the flowers, there’s also an amusement park, a children’s adventure zone and 11km of cycling paths in the 350-hectare park.

Korakuen, Okayama

Korakuen in Okayama, along with Kenrokuen in Kanazawa and Kairakuen in Mito, is one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan, a traditional honour it has held since the 19th century. The rolling landscape, covering approximately 144,000 square metres, is a fine example of traditional Edo-period (1603-1868) beauty. While the garden was damaged by war and natural distasters in the past, it has consistently been restored based on historcal illustrated maps. As one of the larger landscape gardens in Japan, Korakuen is sprawling enough to boast large lawns, ponds, plum and cherry trees and Japanese cranes. The garden is incredibly picturesque in all four seasons, thanks to a well-curated selection of plants to make sure there are always flowers year-round. And that grand view of Okayama Castle in the background is the icing on the cake.

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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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The ultimate sado island japan travel guide [2024], the 12 best things to do in otaru, japan (2024 edition), the ultimate travel guide to nakatsugawa, japan (2024), 8 reasons why you should visit tohoku, japan on your next trip, 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.

 Shan.shihan/ Getty

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.

 DoctorEgg / Getty 

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.

Chiara Salvadori/ Getty 

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.

Thanyarat07/Getty  

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

Aladimirzakharov/Getty 

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.

 Annhfhung/Getty

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 .

Edwin Gimpel/ Getty 

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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Bucket List Seekers

Extraordinary Travel for Ordinary Couples

Bucket List , Japan · June 23, 2023

The Ultimate Japan Bucket List

Are you  planning a trip to Japan  and looking for the absolute best things to do? This Japan Bucket List features over 230 incredible experiences and must dos in Japan covering all regions. There’s even a list of the best food experiences to be had in Japan! 

If it’s your  first-time visiting Japan  then you’re in for a real treat. Japan is one of the most beautiful countries in the world to explore. 

We usually recommend first-time visitors focus their time on  these 5 destinations , however, there are actually many more must-do Japan experiences that you should not miss out on.

This Japan bucket list features loads of must-dos in Japan, covering not only the main tourist destinations such as Tokyo,  Kyoto , Osaka, and Hiroshima but also has oodles of fun things to do in  off-the-beaten-path locations that the vast majority of visitors tend to skip.

While you probably won’t be able to tick off all 230+ of these epic Japan experiences during your first visit , this list is designed to highlight the very  best of Japan , so you can pick and choose which experiences you would like to do, depending on the regions you want to visit.

Whether you’re planning to stay for 7 days , 14 days, or longer in Japan. Or  visit Japan  in Summer, Spring,  Autumn , or winter. This list of Japan must-dos covers amazing experiences for all seasons.

So, without further ado, let’s dive right in…

Here are the best bucket list things to add to your Japan itinerary!

Related articles you might like:

• The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Trip to Japan
• 20 Things to Know Before Visiting Japan for the First Time
• 5 Best Places to Visit in Japan for First Timers
• 30+ Places to Get Off the Beaten Path in Japan
• The Perfect 7 Day Japan Itinerary: 4 route options!

In This Post:

Download this Japan Bucket List for FREE!

Before we get started, you can download this bucket list for free to take with you on your trip and tick off items as you go! 

You’ll also get exclusive access to a ton of free and useful travel resources including  printable bucket lists, travel packing and preparation checklists, detailed travel itineraries, and detailed maps  to access on-the-go directly from the Google Maps app on your phone! 

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10 Must do Japan Experiences

• Take a ride on the world-famous Shinkansen bullet train.
• Visit a traditional Japanese hot spring (onsen) and relax in the natural mineral-rich waters.
• Take a stroll through one of Japan’s many beautiful gardens.
• Witness the skill of sumo wrestlers at a sumo tournament or training stable.
• See the beauty of Japan during Sakura (cherry blossom season).
• Go skiing in the Japanese Alps.
• Attend a traditional tea ceremony and learn about the art and culture of tea in Japan.
• Watch a kabuki performance – a traditional form of Japanese theater.
• Take a cooking class and learn how to make traditional Japanese dishes like sushi or tempura.
• Experience Japan’s obsession with karaoke.

Japan Bucket List by Region

Tokyo & Kanto Region

• Visit the iconic Tokyo Skytree tower for panoramic views of the city.
• Explore the historic Asakusa district in Tokyo, home to the famous Senso-ji temple.
• Take a stroll through the stunning gardens at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.
• Visit the Meiji Shrine, a peaceful oasis in the heart of Tokyo’s bustling Shibuya district.
• Check out the trendy Harajuku district in Tokyo for unique fashion, street food, and shopping.
• Take a day trip to the beautiful city of Kamakura, home to many ancient temples and shrines.
• Explore the charming town of Hakone, famous for its hot springs, onsen, and stunning views of Mount Fuji.
• Wander down Memory Lane (Omoide Yokocho) in Shinjuku
• Take a cruise on Lake Ashi and admire the stunning scenery.
• Visit the breathtaking Tokyo Tower for amazing views of the city.
• Visit the Nikko Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan’s most ornate shrines.
• Experience Tokyo’s bustling nightlife in the vibrant neighbourhood of Shinjuku.
• Try the freshest seafood at the famous Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo.
• Check out the cutting-edge contemporary art at the Mori Art Museum in Roppongi Hills.
• Take a stroll through the beautiful gardens at Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden in Tokyo.
• Visit the breathtaking Akihabara district in Tokyo, famous for its anime, manga, and electronics.
• Explore the charming town of Kawagoe, known as “Little Edo” for its well-preserved traditional architecture.
• Go shopping in the Ginza district, known for its luxury boutiques and department stores.
• Visit the Tokyo National Museum for an in-depth look at Japanese history and culture.
• Try delicious street food at the Yurakucho Yakitori Alley in Tokyo.
• Visit the quirky Robot Restaurant in Shinjuku for an unforgettable dinner and show.
• Experience the bustling energy of the Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest intersections in the world.
• Check out the Yokohama Chinatown, the largest Chinatown in Japan.
• Take a relaxing hot spring bath at the Kusatsu Onsen in Gunma Prefecture.
• Visit the Hitachi Seaside Park in Ibaraki Prefecture for its stunning seasonal flowers and panoramic views.
• Explore the scenic hiking trails at the Takao-san mountain in Tokyo.
• Take a tour of the Kirin Beer factory in Yokohama.
• Visit the Hasedera Temple in Kamakura for its stunning ocean views and ancient Buddhist statues.
• Go on a scenic train ride on the Hakone Tozan Railway.
• Take a relaxing boat ride along the Sumida River.
• Explore the vibrant Nakameguro district, known for its cherry blossoms in spring.
• Visit the Edo-Tokyo Museum for an in-depth look at the city’s history and culture.
• Visit the beautiful Kiyosumi Gardens, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.

Kyoto, Osaka & Kansai Region

• Visit the iconic Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most famous landmarks.
• Explore the historic Nara Park and feed the friendly deer.
• Take a stroll through the beautiful gardens at the Katsura Imperial Villa in Kyoto.
• Visit the impressive Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Explore the vibrant Dotonbori district in Osaka, known for its nightlife, food, and shopping.
• Visit the beautiful Tofukuji Temple in Kyoto during autumn to see the stunning fall foliage.
• Take a day trip to the charming town of Arashiyama, known for its Bamboo Grove and Monkey Forest.
• 35. Take a tour of the Suntory Yamazaki Distillery, known for its world-class whisky.
• Dress up in a kimono and wander through the historic Higashiyama district in Kyoto.
• Visit the stunning Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Take a relaxing boat ride along the scenic Hozugawa River.
• Visit the beautiful Kinkakuji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion.
• Check out the vibrant nightlife in the Nakazaki-cho and Ura Namba districts in Osaka.
• Explore the stunning gardens at the Ritsurin Koen in Takamatsu.
• Visit the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto, known for its thousands of torii gates.
• Take a day trip to the charming town of Hikone, known for its impressive castle and scenic views.
• Hike the famous Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trail.
• Visit the beautiful Kasuga Taisha Shrine in Nara, known for its thousands of stone lanterns.
• Explore the trendy Amerikamura district in Osaka, known for its unique fashion and street culture.
• Take a stroll through the picturesque town of Kinosaki Onsen, known for its hot springs and traditional atmosphere.
• Visit Japan’s most famous Moss Garden, Sahio-Ji in Kyoto
• Visit the beautiful Nijo Castle in Kyoto, known for its stunning architecture and gardens.
• Check out the vibrant nightlife in the Shinsaibashi district in Osaka.
• Wander along the Philosopher’s Path in Kyoto during Sakura
• Take a day trip to the scenic Koyasan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to many temples.
• Visit the stunning Hikone Castle, one of Japan’s best-preserved castles.
• Take a relaxing bath at one of the many hot springs in the Arima Onsen district in Kobe.
• Visit the beautiful Byodoin Temple in Uji, known for its stunning architecture and gardens.
• Explore the historic town of Tsumago-juku, one of the best-preserved post towns on the Nakasendo trail.
• Take a day trip to the scenic Amanohashidate, known for its stunning sandbar and views.
• Visit the stunning Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto, known for its beautiful views and architecture.
• Visit the beautiful Ishiyama-dera Temple in Otsu.
• Visit the Shinto shrine of Izumo Taisha in Shimane Prefecture, known as one of Japan’s most important shrines.
• Explore the beautiful Wakayama Castle.
• Go hunting for Giesha or Maiko in Gion, Kyoto.
• Explore the vibrant nightlife and food scene in the port city of Kobe.
• Visit the historic Silver Temple (Ginkaku-Ji) in Kyoto
• Sample traditional Japanese delicacies at the Nishiki Market in downtown Kyoto.
• Tour the stunning grounds of Kodai-Ji temple in Kyoto.
• Take a wander down the Sanneizaka and Nineizaka Paths in Kyoto.
• Wander the grounds of Daigo-Ji temple in Fushimi Ward during Autumn.
• Visit the beautiful Lake Biwa, the largest freshwater lake in Japan, and explore its surrounding towns and attractions.
• Visit the scenic Ise-Shima National Park, which is known for its beautiful coastline and traditional seafood cuisine.

Chubu Region

• Visit the historic city of Takayama and explore its traditional streets and temples.
• Hike the beautiful Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, which features stunning scenery and a variety of transportation options.
• Visit the iconic Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan’s most beautiful castles.
• Explore the charming city of Kanazawa, which is known for its traditional crafts and beautiful gardens.
• Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shirakawa-go, a picturesque village with traditional thatched-roof houses.
• Visit the impressive Kenrokuen Garden in Kanazawa, one of the three most beautiful gardens in Japan.
• Hike the beautiful Kamikochi Valley, which is located in the Japanese Alps.
• Explore the charming town of Tsumago, which is located on the Nakasendo historic trail.
• Take a scenic train ride on the Oigawa Railway, which runs through beautiful mountain scenery in Shizuoka Prefecture.
• Explore the historic town of Gujo Hachiman, which is known for its traditional waterways and dance festivals.
• Take a day trip to the stunning Izu Peninsula, known for its hot springs, beaches, and scenic hiking trails.
• Visit the stunning Takato Castle Park in Nagano Prefecture, which is famous for its cherry blossom festival.
• Explore the historic town of Inuyama, which features a beautiful castle and traditional streets.
• Take a scenic train ride on the Iseji line, which runs along the coast of Mie Prefecture.
• Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine, which is located in Shimane Prefecture and features historic mining facilities and beautiful scenery.
• Take a trip to the Kiso Valley, which is known for its traditional post towns and scenic hiking trails.
• Visit the iconic Nagoya Castle, one of Japan’s most famous castles.
• Explore the city of Nagano, which hosted the Winter Olympics in 1998 and is known for its many outdoor activities and hot springs.
• Visit the impressive Gujo Falls, one of the largest waterfalls in Japan, located in Gifu Prefecture.
• Explore the historic city of Gifu, which is known for its traditional cormorant fishing on the Nagara River.
• Take a trip to the stunning Kurobe Gorge, which features beautiful scenery and a scenic train ride.
• Explore the city of Toyama, which is known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful scenery.
• Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Fujisan, located in Yamanashi Prefecture, and hike or climb Mount Fuji.
• Explore the historic city of Kanonji, which is located in Kagawa Prefecture and is known for its many temples and shrines.
• Visit the beautiful Lake Suwa, located in Nagano Prefecture, and explore its surrounding towns and attractions.
• Check out the unique art installations at the Echigo-Tsumari Art Field in Niigata Prefecture.
• Take a trip to Sado Island, Japan’s stunning “Butterfly Island”.
• Go on a thrilling roller coaster ride at the Fuji-Q Highland amusement park.

Hiroshima & Chugoku Region

• Visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum
• Explore Miyajima Island and its iconic torii gate
• Take a scenic drive through the Seto Inland Sea
• Visit the Kintaikyo Bridge in Iwakuni
• Hike the trails of Mount Misen on Miyajima Island
• Visit the historic city of Hagi and its samurai district
• Take a scenic train ride on the Sanin Main Line
• Visit the Okayama Korakuen Garden
• Visit the stunning Tottori Sand Dunes in Tottori Prefecture, one of Japan’s largest sand dune systems.
• Explore the castle ruins of Okayama Castle
• Visit the Mazda Museum in Hiroshima
• Go to the Hiroshima Food Market and try Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki
• Take a day trip to the island of Naoshima, famous for its contemporary art museums
• Try the local specialty of Hiroshima-style tsukemen (dipping noodles)
• Visit the Adachi Museum of Art in Shimane Prefecture for its stunning gardens and Japanese art collection.
• Go on a sake brewery tour in the town of Saijo
• Visit the Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island and see the traditional Japanese wedding ceremonies.
• Visit the Akiyoshi Cave and limestone plateau in Yamaguchi
• Explore the historic streets of Kurashiki Bikan district in Okayama
• Take a boat ride to see the floating torii gate at Motonosumi Inari Shrine in Yamaguchi
• Visit the Hiroshima Castle and its surrounding park
• Go on a cycling tour around the Setouchi region, including islands such as Shodoshima and Oshima.

Shikoku Region

• Walk the 88 Temple Pilgrimage Trail that circles the island, visiting the many beautiful temples along the way.
• Visit the Ritsurin Garden in Takamatsu, one of the most famous gardens in Japan.
• Explore the Iya Valley, known for its natural beauty and historic vine bridges.
• Take a dip in the famous outdoor hot springs of Dogo Onsen in Matsuyama, the oldest hot spring resort in Japan.
• Hike the beautiful Mount Ishizuchi, the highest mountain in western Japan.
• Visit the Naruto Whirlpools in Tokushima, one of the most famous natural attractions in Japan.
• Take a boat tour of the Oboke Gorge, a scenic area of rapids and steep cliffs.
• Explore the historic city of Kochi, with its castle, museum, and beautiful coastline.
• Visit the stunning Kotohira-gu Shrine, also known as Konpira-san, which has been a popular pilgrimage site for over 1,000 years.
• Explore the historic town of Uchiko, which has many well-preserved Edo-era buildings.
• Visit the Tsurugisan Quasi-National Park, which is home to the beautiful Tsurugi-san mountain and other natural wonders.
• Try the local specialty of Sanuki udon noodles in Kagawa prefecture, which are famous throughout Japan.

Okinawa & Kyushu Region

• Visit the Nagasaki Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum
• Take a dip in the famous hot springs of Beppu
• Explore the historic city of Kumamoto and its castle
• Visit the unique sand baths of Ibusuki
• Take a scenic train ride on the Yufuin no Mori train
• Visit the active volcano of Mount Aso
• Explore the historic city of Nagasaki and its Glover Garden
• Take a day trip to the beautiful island of Yakushima
• Visit the impressive Takachiho Gorge and its waterfalls
• Try the local specialty of Kumamoto ramen
• Visit the stunning Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine in Fukuoka
• Explore the hot springs and sand dunes of Amami Oshima
• Visit the Huis Ten Bosch theme park, which is modeled after a Dutch town
• Take a boat tour to see the beautiful Hashima island in Nagasaki
• Try the famous beef from Miyazaki prefecture.
• Snorkel or dive in the crystal clear waters around the Kerama Islands
• Visit the Shurijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the former palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom
• Explore the Churaumi Aquarium, which is one of the largest in the world and home to many rare marine species
• Take a walk on the beautiful white sand beach of the tropical island of Ishigaki
• Visit the Okinawa World theme park to see the Gyokusendo Cave and experience traditional Okinawan culture.

Hokkaido Region

• Visit the Sapporo Beer Museum and try Hokkaido’s famous beer
• Go skiing or snowboarding in Niseko or Rusutsu
• Relax in the natural hot springs (onsen) at Jozankei or Noboribetsu
• Visit the Sapporo Snow Festival in February
• See the famous red-crowned cranes at the Kushiro Marshland
• Take a scenic drive along the coast in Shakotan or Otaru
• Visit the stunning Blue Pond in Biei
• Go whale watching in Rausu
• Visit the stunning Shiretoko National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Take a ride on the Hakodate Ropeway and see the stunning night view
• Visit the Asahiyama Zoo and see the adorable penguins and polar bears
• Go horseback riding through the fields in Furano
• Visit the Ainu Museum in Shiraoi and learn about the indigenous people of Hokkaido
• Go hiking in Daisetsuzan National Park, Japan’s largest national park
• See the colorful flower fields in Furano and Biei during the summer months
• Try Hokkaido’s famous seafood, such as king crab and sea urchin
• Visit the Otaru Canal and explore the historic buildings and shops
• Go kayaking or canoeing on the Shiretoko Five Lakes
• Visit the Shikotsu-Toya National Park and see the stunning caldera lakes
• Take a relaxing boat ride on Lake Akan and see the Marimo, a rare and protected algae
• Visit the Sapporo Clock Tower, a symbol of Hokkaido’s history and culture.

Tohoku Region

• Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hiraizumi, which features historic temples and gardens.
• Explore the city of Sendai, which is the largest city in the Tohoku region and is known for its cultural attractions and seafood cuisine.
• Visit the scenic Oirase Gorge, located in Aomori Prefecture, which features beautiful waterfalls and hiking trails.
• Explore the historic town of Hirosaki, which is known for its beautiful cherry blossom festival in the spring.
• Visit the iconic Zao Fox Village, located in Miyagi Prefecture, which features a large number of foxes in a natural habitat.
• Take a scenic train ride on the Aoimori Railway, which runs through beautiful coastal scenery in Aomori Prefecture.
• Visit the stunning Matsushima Bay, which is known for its beautiful scenery and historic temples.
• Explore the city of Yamagata, which is known for its hot springs and skiing opportunities in the winter.
• Visit the beautiful Oga Peninsula, which is known for its traditional festivals and beautiful coastline.
• Explore the historic town of Kakunodate, which features many traditional samurai houses and is known for its autumn foliage.

Japanese Food Bucket List

• Sushi – fresh and flavorful seafood served on bite-sized portions of vinegared rice.
• Ramen – a hearty noodle soup made with a rich, savory broth and various toppings like pork, egg, and vegetables.
• Tempura – crispy, deep-fried seafood or vegetables in a light batter.
• Okonomiyaki – a savory pancake made with cabbage, flour, eggs, and various toppings like pork, shrimp, and cheese.
• Yakitori – skewered and grilled chicken, often served with a variety of sauces and seasonings.
• Tonkatsu – deep-fried breaded pork cutlet, served with a tangy sauce and rice.
• Udon – thick and chewy wheat flour noodles in a flavorful broth, often served with various toppings like tempura or eggs.
• Takoyaki – small, ball-shaped snacks made with batter and diced octopus, often topped with sauce, mayonnaise, and bonito flakes.
• Mochi – soft and chewy rice cakes, often filled with sweet bean paste or fruit.
• Shabu-shabu – a hot pot dish featuring thinly sliced beef or pork, vegetables, and noodles cooked in a flavorful broth.
• Soba – thin and nutty buckwheat noodles, often served cold with dipping sauce or hot in a broth.
• Onigiri – rice balls filled with various fillings like pickled plum, tuna, or salmon.
• Oden – a hearty stew featuring various ingredients like boiled eggs, daikon radish, and fish cakes simmered in a flavorful broth.
• Katsu curry – breaded pork cutlet served with Japanese-style curry sauce and rice.
• Matcha – finely ground green tea leaves, often used in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies and used to flavor desserts and drinks.
• Kobe beef – premium, high-quality beef known for its marbling and tenderness.
• Miso soup – a flavorful soup made with fermented soybean paste and various ingredients like tofu and seaweed.
• Kaiseki – a traditional multi-course Japanese meal, featuring beautifully presented small dishes made with seasonal ingredients.
• Sashimi – thinly sliced raw seafood served with soy sauce and wasabi.
• Tonkotsu ramen – a rich and creamy pork bone broth-based ramen, often served with chashu pork and marinated soft-boiled eggs.
• Gyoza – pan-fried or steamed dumplings filled with minced pork, cabbage, and other ingredients.
• Yakiniku – Japanese-style grilled meat, often served with dipping sauces and side dishes like rice and vegetables.
• Taiyaki – fish-shaped cakes filled with sweet red bean paste or other fillings like custard or chocolate.
• Anago – grilled or simmered saltwater eel, often served with a sweet and savory sauce and rice.
• Katsuobushi – dried and smoked bonito fish flakes, often used to flavor soups and other dishes.
• Nikujaga – a hearty stew made with beef, potatoes, and onions in a sweet and savory sauce.
• Mitarashi dango – skewered rice dumplings brushed with a sweet soy sauce glaze.
• Ichigo daifuku – mochi filled with sweet red bean paste and a fresh strawberry.
• Ochazuke – a comforting dish made with rice, tea, and various toppings like salmon or pickled plum.
• Kakiage – a type of tempura made with mixed vegetables and seafood, often served as a topping for udon or soba noodles.
• Chirashi sushi – a colorful and flavorful dish made with sushi rice and various toppings like raw fish, egg, and vegetables.
• Oyakodon – a savory rice bowl dish made with chicken, egg, and onions in a sweet and savory sauce.
• Hiyashi chuka – a refreshing cold noodle dish topped with various vegetables, meat, and a sweet and tangy sauce.
• Melonpan – a sweet and crispy bread bun topped with a cookie dough-like crust.
• Karage – bite-sized pieces of deep-fried chicken, often served as a snack or appetizer.
• Dango – small round rice dumplings served on a skewer with various toppings like sweet soy sauce or sesame seeds.
• Zaru soba – chilled buckwheat noodles served with a savory dipping sauce and various toppings like wasabi and green onions.
• Wagashi – traditional Japanese sweets made with ingredients like mochi, bean paste, and fruit, often served with tea.

Have we missed a spot?  Can you recommend any other great Japan Bucket List ideas for other readers to check out, let us know in the comments below!

Map of Must dos in Japan

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This Japan Map below features all the top must do things in Japan that are listed in this article, plus many more. To get free access to this map to use on-the-go,  click here  to sign up to our Travel Resource Library.

Ready to Book Your Trip to Japan?

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To help you with your planning, we have a ton of other  Japan travel blog  articles featuring loads of handy tips and tricks. We recommend starting here:

Read More About Japan:

• The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Trip to Japan for First Timers
• The Ultimate Japan Bucket List: 230+ Experiences
• 20 Things You Should Know before Visiting Japan for the First Time

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56 Best Things to Do in Japan for an Unforgettable Trip (2024)

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Japan is a bewildering, beautiful country that is like nowhere else. There are so many amazing things to do in Japan that one trip is never enough—it has stolen our hearts and we can’t stop returning.

From ancient temples to futuristic skyscrapers, tranquil tea ceremonies to over-the-top arcades, relaxing hot springs to cosplay go-kart rides, Japan has so much to offer everyone.

In this post, I share the best things to do in Japan divided into the categories Culture (for unique things you can only do in Japan), Fun (for all the quirky and futuristic stuff), Food (because the food is extraordinary and you must eat as much as possible), Spiritual (for all those wonderful temples and shrines) and Beautiful (for the gorgeous natural scenery).

Even on a short visit to Japan, you can choose a few experiences from each category for an unforgettable trip.

Video: Best Things to Do in Japan

Cultural things to do in japan, fun things to do in japan, best japan activities for foodies, spiritual things to do in japan, best beautiful japan attractions, planning your japan itinerary, japan travel tips.

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These unique things to do in Japan are activities you don’t find elsewhere and are the best ways of experiencing Japanese culture.

1) Spend a Night in a Ryokan

For at least one night of your trip, I highly recommend staying in a ryokan, which is a traditional Japanese inn.

Tatami mat rooms are elegant, minimalist spaces, usually with just a table and low chairs where you can enjoy green tea on arrival.

Breakfast and dinner are often included in the price and served in your room. The epic, multi-course meals are a highlight of a stay in a ryokan and have been some of our best meals in Japan.

Ryokans can often cater to vegetarians and vegans, but let them know any dietary requirements in advance (you don’t get a choice of dishes).

After dinner, futons will be set up on the floor and can be surprisingly comfortable to sleep on.

Ryokans range from simple (such as guesthouses called minshuku) to ultra-luxurious, sometimes with private baths and views overlooking exquisite Japanese gardens.

They are more expensive than regular hotels but are well worth it for the experience.

Our favourite ryokans are:

• Tsukihitei  – A traditional inn near the temples in Nara with a magical forest setting.
• Iwaso – A beautiful ryokan in a secluded but convenient location on Miyajima Island , ideal for exploring once the day trippers have left.
• Nanzenji Ryokan Yachiyo   – Our huge suite at this Kyoto ryokan had a private bath overlooking the scarlet maple trees in the garden. See our guide to where to stay in Kyoto for a detailed review.

You can find many other ryokans all over Japan— search on Booking.com . 

2) Soak in an Onsen

The classic Japanese experience is soaking in the steaming hot waters of an onsen (hot spring bath)—it’s a must for your Japan bucket list.

Onsens come in many forms—indoor and outdoor, simple and luxurious, small and large. Most of them are shared, but some ryokans have private baths you can reserve.

Most ryokans have onsens, but you can also find them at some Western-style hotels (we loved the rooftop one at Sora Niwa Terrace in Kyoto). Or public onsens offer access for a fee.

Onsens can be a challenge for foreigners (they were for us at first!), as you must be completely naked (most are divided by gender).

Make sure you shower thoroughly before you get in the bath. It’s worth getting over your fears as they are such a relaxing experience.

Soaking in onsens is one of the best activities to do in Japan in winter. In summer, the hot water is less appealing.

3) Wander Around an Onsen Town in a Kimono

If you want the full onsen experience, head to an onsen town.

These small resort towns are usually in rural settings and feature many different onsens. They are popular destinations for the Japanese for relaxing getaways.

The best way to experience one is to stay in a ryokan. Some have their own onsens and usually include a pass to visit the other onsens in town.

After putting on the provided yukata (cotton kimono) and geta (wooden sandals), you head out to hop from one onsen to another and relax in the steaming waters.

There are many onsen towns in Japan. We loved Kinosaki Onsen, which is easily accessible from Kyoto and Osaka and is particularly pretty in the spring when the canals are lined with cherry blossoms.

We stayed at the friendly Morizuya Ryokan which has two small onsens available for private use in the afternoon—perfect for your first time. 

Read more about Kinosaki Onsen and onsen etiquette .

4) Watch a Geisha Dance

Geishas are one of the most fascinating aspects of Japan, especially if you’ve read Arthur Golden’s popular novel Memoirs of a Geisha about these highly-skilled women who entertain using traditional arts. 

It’s hard to believe they still exist, but when we spent a month living on a traditional street in Miyagawacho in Kyoto (near the more well-known Gion area), we often saw them in brightly coloured kimonos emerging from wooden teahouses.

Rather than stalking geisha on the streets of Gion, I recommend watching them perform at one of the annual dances that take place every spring and autumn.

The most famous is the Miyako Odori in April, but we went to the Kyo Odori instead, which doesn’t attract many foreign guests. It’s one of our absolute favourite things to do in Kyoto .

We also enjoyed the Gion Odori in early November.

The performances are spectacular, and it is fascinating to get a closer look at the extravagant kimono, ornate hairstyles, and iconic white makeup these graceful women wear.

Another option any time of year is to take a night walk in Gion with a local guide to learn about the history of geisha and perhaps encounter one.

Top tip: Miyagawacho is the perfect area to stay in Kyoto for spotting geisha without the crowds of Gion. We rented a studio on Vrbo that’s no longer available, but you can search for more vacation rentals in Miyagawacho here . Options include this lovingly restored townhouse and  this incredible samurai machiya . 

5) Admire Ukiyo-e Prints

Ukiyo-e or Japanese woodblock prints are uniquely Japanese and flourished during the Edo Period from the 17th to 19th centuries.

The prints depict landscapes, regular life of ordinary people, and popular kabuki actors, sumo wrestlers, and geisha from the world of entertainment or “floating world”.

You can see ukiyo-e in many cities in Japan. We enjoyed the small Ota Memorial Museum in Harajuku (one of our favourite things to do in Tokyo ), which displays rotating exhibitions—we were lucky enough to see the 36 Views of Mount Fuji by Hokusai including the famous Great Wave off Kanagawa.

6) See Sumo Wrestlers in Action

Sumo is serious in Japan and the national sport is steeped in tradition. Matches still include rituals that date back to its ancient origins as part of the Shinto religion such as purifying the ring with salt.

You can see sumo wrestling at one of the sumo tournaments that happen a few times a year. Tournaments happen in Tokyo in January, May and September, and in Osaka in March.

We’ve never got the timing right, so on our last trip, we took this tour to a sumo stable in Tokyo to see the wrestlers’ morning training session. It was such a fascinating and intimate experience seeing the immense sumotori up close.

I loved the novel The Street of a Thousand Blossoms by Gail Tsukiyama, which gave me a greater insight into sumo culture. 

7) Watch a Kabuki Performance

Kabuki is a form of traditional Japanese theatre that dates back to the Edo Period. It includes drama, dance and music and the all-male performers wear elaborate makeup.

The best place to see a Kabuki performance is the Kabukiza Theatre in Ginza, Tokyo, which offers single act tickets (performances last hours otherwise) and English captions are available.

You might find performances in other major cities.

9) Dress Up as a Geisha

Hiring a kimono for the day and wandering the historic streets of Gion and Higashiyama is a popular activity in Kyoto with both Japanese and foreigners.

There are many shops in Gion and the surrounding areas to rent them (the Yasaka Shrine area is a convenient place to start). Check out this kimono rental shop (including optional hairstyling).

Another option if you want a more extravagant maiko outfit is this Maiko Makeover with professional studio photos .

Although Kyoto’s ancient streets are the most common place to rent a kimono, you can find rental shops throughout Japan.

10) Gaze at Itchiku Kubota’s Stunning Kimonos

On a cloudy day at Kawaguchiko (when Mt Fuji did not emerge), we came across the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum on the shores of the lake.

We didn’t expect much from a kimono museum, but Itchiku Kubota’s oversize kimonos are exquisite works of art and we were blown away.

Kubota made it his life’s mission to recreate a lost textile dyeing technique from the 16th century and the results are stunning.

His kimonos are full of colour and texture and depict nature such as the changes in Mount Fuji through the seasons.

This museum isn’t on many things to do in Japan lists, but I think it’s a hidden gem, especially if you visit the beautiful onsite teahouse too.

See our Lake Kawaguchiko travel guide for more tips on the area.

11) Pay Your Respects at the Hiroshima Peace Museum

Head to Hiroshima to pay your respects to the victims of the atomic bombing at Hiroshima’s moving Peace Memorial Park.

The park is beautiful and the museum is heartbreaking, riveting, and vitally important.

Afterwards, explore the modern city that was almost entirely rebuilt after World War II.

Recommended Reading: 16 Unmissable Places to Visit in Japan

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12) Ride a Shinkansen (Bullet Train)

We adore train travel in Japan. The network is extensive and the trains are comfortable, clean, quiet, safe, and always on time (to the minute!).

Best of all are the shinkansen or bullet trains which travel at ultra-high speeds of up to 320 km/h (199 mph).

They make travelling between major cities very fast—Tokyo to Kyoto, a distance of 450km (280 miles) can be covered in 2 hours 15 minutes by the fastest shinkansen Nozomi.

You can even ride fun themed bullet trains such as the Hello Kitty shinkansen which runs from Osaka to Fukuoka.

Shinkansen are expensive but worth it. A Japan Rail Pass used to make them more affordable, but that’s less clear cut after a major price increase (the pass is still so convenient, though). Our guide to Is a Japan Rail Pass Worth it? will help you decide.

13) Go-Kart Around Tokyo

Go-karting in Tokyo tops our list of the most fun things to do in Japan! Where else in the world can you dress up as your favourite character and drive go-karts on the real streets of a major city?

I was terrified at first as we drove alongside buses and cars but ended up having so much fun!

You used to be able to dress up as Mario characters but Nintendo shut that down. You’ll still have a range of costumes to choose from.

Important: Make sure you get an international driving permit from your home country before you come to Japan as they are strict about this requirement.

Check out the Tokyo go-karting tour here.

14) Enjoy a Day at DisneySea

DisneySea is one of the best Disney parks in the world with a unique nautical theme featuring ports like Mysterious Island with an erupting volcano and Mediterranean Harbor which looks just like Italy.

There are many fun rides at DisneySea as well as more adult-orientated attractions like seeing a Broadway show or drinking a cocktail in a 1920s lounge aboard a cruise liner.

You have to book park tickets in advance, and the Tokyo Disney site often doesn’t work with international cards, so we buy tickets from authorised agent Klook and just show a QR code to enter.

Disney is easily accessible from central Tokyo in about 30 minutes, but we prefer to stay close by to avoid rush hour travel and be able to take a break during the day.

Hotel Mystays Maihama is a budget option in walking distance, but our favourite place to stay in all Japan is the Hotel MiraCosta, right inside Tokyo DisneySea (it’s pricey though).

I definitely recommend staying nearby if you want to visit the neighbouring Disneyland Tokyo park as well as you’ll need two full days. 

15) Head up High for a City View

Japanese cities are vast and impressive with towering skyscrapers and neon signs. I think they are best admired from above at night, so head up to an observatory in one of the tall buildings.

One of my favourite observatories is Harukas 300 in Osaka which has 360º views from the floor-to-ceiling windows and a cool open-air garden bar.

In Tokyo, the best view is from Shibuya Sky (book four weeks ahead for the prime sunset spot).

You can also get a free view from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku.

16) Rent a Karaoke Booth

Karaoke is one of the most typical Japan activities—everyone from teenagers to businessmen loves it.

But don’t worry if you are shy—there’s no need to sing in public as in Japan you rent a private booth in one of the many huge karaoke buildings.

The rooms are equipped with comfy seating, microphones, TV, and a tablet which you use to choose from a wide selection of songs. You can even order drinks and food.

We went to a branch of the budget Karaoke no Tetsujin chain in Tokyo and were surprised that the cost included a drink—it makes an affordable night out.

17) Be Spirited Away at Studio Ghibli Museum or Park

If you are a fan of Studio Ghibli films like Spirited Away and My Neighbor Totoro , don’t miss the whimsical Studio Ghibli Museum in Tokyo where you can see props and drawings from the animations in a quirky building.

You must buy your tickets on the 10th of the month for the following month—see the Ghibli Museum website for details.

Even better, visit the new Ghibli Park near Nagoya. The theme park doesn’t contain any rides but is an immersive experience in the world of Studio Ghibli films.

We visited as a day trip from Kyoto and loved all the fun photo opportunities. See our detailed Ghibli park review for everything you need to know (including how to score tickets).

Recommended Reading: 26 Cool Things to Do in Tokyo

18) Enter the World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Japan

Universal Studios Japan in Osaka is a must for Harry Potter and theme park fans.

The highlight is the immersive Wizarding World of Harry Potter where you can wander the snowy cobbled streets, stroll through Hogwarts, drink butterbeer, shop for sweets in Honeydukes, and even cast your own spells if you buy a magic wand.

Elsewhere in the park, there are plenty of rides for thrill-seekers including Hollywood Dream and The Flying Dinosaur—the scariest rollercoaster I’ve ever been on!

The new Super Nintendo World is also amazing. Note you will likely need a free timed entry ticket (or Express Pass) to enter this area.

See our favourite Universal Studios Japan rides .

The park gets extremely busy, so avoid weekends and buy your tickets in advance here from authorised agent Klook .

I also highly recommend purchasing an Express Pass to skip the queues on the most popular rides. I wouldn’t visit the park without one.

19) Experience Sensory Overload at the Robot Restaurant

Update: Robot Restaurant is currently closed. It is due to reopen but no date has been set. In the meantime, the Samurai Restaurant in Shinjuku is run by the same people and offers a similar over-the-top experience.

The Robot Restaurant is one of the weirdest things to do in Japan.

It’s not actually a restaurant but is a bizarre, high-energy show featuring robots, dragons, ninjas, blue-haired dancers, creepy clowns, guitarists on swings, drummers, and lots of flashing neon lights.

It’s incredibly loud, obnoxious, and hilarious.

20) Ride the Don Quixote Ferris Wheel in Dotonbori

A nighttime visit to Osaka’s Dotonbori neighbourhood is a must-do in Japan with its overwhelming display of neon, giant food models, and many restaurants and food stalls.

Overlooking the river you can ride a unique Ferris wheel in the building of the massive Don Quixote store (great for cheap souvenirs).

It’s the strangest looking Ferris wheel as it’s built onto the facade of the store and you ride in a capsule that follows an oval shape up to 77 metres high with views of the river and city.

Top tip: We recommend staying in the Shinsaibashi neighbourhood of Osaka. It’s walkable to Dotonbori but is in a much quieter area with some great shops and restaurants nearby. Search for accommodation in Shinsaibashi here .

21) Play Taiko Drums in an Arcade

There are so many video game arcades in Japan that you won’t be able to miss them (they are loud and neon!).

There’s a wide array of games, and one of the most fun is playing the huge Japanese taiko drums.

If you want to play real Taiko drums, you can take a drumming class in Tokyo .

22) Get Lost in a Colourful TeamLab Show

Don’t miss the opportunity to see a TeamLab show in Japan. Their unique digital art museums are immersive experiences where you interact with colourful displays of light and sound.

There are two exhibitions in Tokyo and both are superb.

TeamLab Planets (open until the end of 2027) involves walking in water (wear shorts or trousers you can roll up) and a floating orchid garden. There’s also a delicious vegan ramen shop onsite.

Book tickets to TeamLab Planets in advance here . It does sell out.

TeamLab Borderless closed for a few years, but it reopened in a new permanent location in February 2024. It’s even larger than Planets and doesn’t involve water.

23) Brave the Shibuya Crossing

One of the most famous sights in Tokyo is the insane Shibuya Crossing, the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing.

Outside Shibuya Station as many as 2500 people cross the road every time the light changes, somehow managing to avoid bumping into each other.

You can head into the crowd yourself or view the action from above in one of the neighbouring buildings (Starbucks is the most popular spot). It looks best at night when all the neon signs are lit up.

The Shibuya Sky observation deck is another great place to see the crossing from above (if rather distantly) as well as 360º panoramic views of Tokyo.

Food in Japan is an adventure and an art form. Japanese cuisine is universally delicious and beautifully presented whether you pick up a snack from a 7-Eleven (yes, this is the only country I recommend this) or indulge in multi-course fine dining.

Being a vegetarian can be a challenge if you don’t plan in advance, but follow our vegetarian in Japan tips and you’ll eat some of the best meals of your life.

We love eating in Japan and there are many fun and tasty culinary experiences to enjoy.

24) Order Ramen from a Vending Machine

Ramen, or noodle soup, may have its origins in China, but there’s now a no more classic Japanese food experience than enjoying a steaming bowl of ramen.

Not only is it utterly delicious, but it’s also one of the quickest and cheapest meals you can find.

In the simplest ramen joints, you make your selection and pay at a vending machine at the entrance and then hand over your ticket to the chef behind the counter who will cook the soup of your choice.

Most ramen is made with meat (or occasionally fish) broth and topped with pork, but vegan ramen is becoming more common.

Read our vegetarian Tokyo and vegetarian Kyoto guides for our favourite veggie ramen joints, and look out for the chains Kyushu Jangara Ramen and Afuri.

25) Try Okonomiyaki

Okonomiyaki is another classic Japanese dish found all over the country but especially in Osaka and Hiroshima.

It’s a thick savoury pancake made with a batter of flour and eggs and filled with cabbage and whatever else you want. Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki also contains noodles.

In some okonomiyaki restaurants, you make your own, while in others it’s made on an iron griddle in front of you. It’s a hearty and inexpensive meal.

Learn to make okonomiyaki on this Osaka cooking class .

26) Take a Cooking Class

A cooking class is one of the best things to do in Japan for foodies as you can learn more about Japanese food culture and take home recipes for your favourite dishes.

There’s a wide variety of cooking classes available in Japan where you can learn to make sushi , ramen , tempura, or regional dishes like Osaka okonomiyaki .

Search for more cooking classes in Japan .

27) Indulge in a Kaiseki Meal

If ramen is one of the cheapest Japanese meals, kaiseki is the most expensive.

Kaiseki is a traditional multi-course meal of the highest quality. A series of small, exquisitely presented dishes are served to guests, usually in beautiful tatami mat rooms. Ingredients are always in season and the presentation enhances the seasonal theme.

Kaiseki meals can be very expensive, but they are a unique experience. Lunch is more affordable than dinner.

If you are vegetarian, look out for the meat-free alternative shojin ryori instead—our favourite place for this is Bon in Tokyo.

28) Drink Matcha with Wagashi

Matcha is a powdered green tea that has a richer flavour than regular tea. A classic Japanese activity is enjoying a bowl of matcha in a traditional tea house accompanied by wagashi, beautiful sweets typically made from rice, red beans, and sugar.

There are many tea houses in Kyoto—we had great experiences at Ippodo Tea Shop and Mandaracha . Many temples and gardens also offer matcha with a view.

We also loved the view from the tea house at Itchiku Kubota Art Museum in Kawaguchiko .

Our ultimate tea adventure was at Sakurai Japanese Tea Experience in Tokyo. The Tea Course at this modern, serene tea house took us on a journey from gyokuro (shaded tea) to matcha.

29) Learn the Art of the Tea Ceremony

Tea isn’t just a drink in Japan and I highly recommend experiencing a traditional tea ceremony to learn more about this important part of Japanese culture.

You’ll learn the stages of the ritual, how to appreciate the tea bowl, and the concept of “ichi-go ichi-e” which means cherishing the moment, as it will never happen again.

Kyoto is the home of the tea ceremony. We did the Tea Ceremony Ju-An at Jotokuji Temple, which includes learning to whisk your own matcha. It was friendly and informative and groups are kept small.

We also participated in a tea ceremony at the gorgeous Gyokusen-en Gardens in Kanazawa, which is harder to book than the suggestion above.

Recommended Reading: Our 2 week Japan itinerary includes Kanazawa.

30) Drink Sake at an Izakaya

From the tranquillity of a tea room to the boisterousness of an izakaya, Japan is all about contrast.

An izakaya is a Japanese pub where you can drink sake (rice wine), beer and other alcoholic drinks accompanied by small tapas-like plates of food.

Note that smoking is allowed in some small bars in Japan. The legal drinking age is 20 years.

31) Eat Sushi

Sushi is Japan’s most famous dish so, of course, you’ll want to try it in its homeland. Eating sushi in Japan is different from elsewhere and there are strict rules—see this sushi in Japan guide for tips. 

Sushi comes in many forms. While it all involves rice prepared with sushi vinegar, it doesn’t all include raw fish. Vegetarian sushi made with tofu, cucumber, or other vegetables is harder to find, but you can read our vegetarian Japan guide for ideas.

You can eat sushi everywhere from convenience stores to fine dining restaurants. The most famous (and exceedingly expensive) restaurant is Sukiyabashi Jiro in Tokyo—you can learn more about the revered chef in the documentary Jiro Dreams of Sushi .

It’s a difficult restaurant to get a reservation for. You must book through a hotel concierge service a few months in advance.

A more affordable option is Sukiyabashi Jiro Roppongi Hills, which is run by his son.

Another popular place to try sushi is the Tsukiji Fish Market .

32) Enjoy a Bento Box on a Train

A bento box is a Japanese lunchbox featuring a range of small dishes with a balance of flavours, textures, and food groups.

You can find them in train stations (where they are called ekiben and use local ingredients), convenience stores, and department store food halls.

This being Japan, they are works of art and very tasty. They are ideal for long train rides and picnics in the park.

A typical bento features rice, meat or fish, and pickled vegetables. Vegetarian bentos are not easy to find, but we did get one at Matsumoto in the Isetan department store near Shinjuku Station in Tokyo.

33) Hanami Under the Cherry Blossoms

Hanami is a Japanese custom of viewing the transient sakura (cherry blossoms) that bloom for a few weeks in spring (usually late March to mid-April in Tokyo and Kyoto). 

The most popular way to enjoy the blossoms is with a picnic under the trees. The Japanese gather in large groups with food and drinks for parties that often last all day and into the night.

To enjoy your own hanami, you can pick up a bento box from a department store or there are many picnic options in convenience stores as well as beers and sake. Look out for sakura-themed items like mochi, kitkats, and even beer.

Our favourite hanami spots were Handayama Botanical Garden in Okayama and Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden in Tokyo where we enjoyed three picnics in a week under the late-blooming cherry trees.

Top Tip: Shinjuku is our favourite area to stay in Tokyo .

34) Order Hot Coffee or Soup from a Vending Machine

In Japan you’ll find vending machines everywhere—in train stations, on almost every street corner, and even on hiking paths. They are very convenient as you’ll never go thirsty.

Most vending machines sell drinks—cold green tea, milk tea, soft drinks, energy drinks, juice (some with jelly chunks), and water.

It’s not just cold drinks, though—in the colder months you can buy a can of hot coffee, tea, and even corn soup to go!

You can tell they are hot as they’ll have a red label (rather than blue for cold drinks). You can also find vending machines that sell alcohol.

It may not be the best coffee in the world, but Simon loved the convenience of being able to pick up a can of hot coffee anywhere, especially on cold mornings when we had a train to catch.

His favourite was Tully’s—he found the more common Boss coffee (randomly advertised by Tommy Lee Jones) less appealing.

Visiting a Buddhist temple or Shinto shrine is a must do in Japan even if you aren’t religious (we’re not).

They are diverse, beautiful, peaceful (sometimes), and fascinating with many rituals to observe. They are often set amongst lovely natural settings in forests or on mountainsides.

The best places to visit temples and shrines are Kyoto (Japan’s capital for 1000 years until 1868) and Nikko (a UNESCO World Heritage Site a few hours north of Tokyo), but you can find them all over the country even in modern Tokyo and Osaka.

Read our Kyoto temples guide for more on the differences between temples and shrines.

35) Stay in a Temple at Koya-San

One of the most unusual things to do in Japan is to spend the night in a temple in the sacred mountain town Koya-san, about 90 minutes from Osaka.

Many temples offer shukubo or temple lodging where you can sleep in tatami mat rooms, soak in communal onsen baths, and enjoy delicious shojin ryori  vegetarian Buddhist meals.

Early in the morning, you can join the monks for their chanting and fire ceremony.

We stayed in the cheapest temple accommodation, Haryo-in, but it’s quite basic and not available to book online. Next time I’d pay more for one of the more traditional temples like 1000-year-old Eko-in . 

36) Hike Through Torii Gates at Fushimi Inari

My favourite shrine in Japan and one of the most popular things to do in Kyoto is the unique Fushimi Inari.

Thousands of bright orange torii gates snake up through a forest on the side of a mountain and it takes about 90 minutes to complete the full circuit (which I recommend as it’s much quieter at the top).

Fushimi Inari is one of the top tourist attractions in Japan and gets incredibly busy, so I highly recommend arriving before 7 am or after 8 pm to avoid the worst of the crowds.

Although I prefer it early in the morning, hiking it at night feels more adventurous with a slightly spooky atmosphere (watch out for wild boars!). The shrine is free and open 24 hours.

37) Visit the Golden Temple

Another Kyoto highlight is Kinkaku-ji or the Golden Temple.

We expected it to be overrated (and it is very crowded), but the shimmering gold pavilion reflected in a pond amongst leafy gardens lived up to the hype.

38) Get Your Fortune Told at a Temple or Shrine

Omikuji are fortune-telling paper strips that can be bought at Japanese temples and shrines.

The fortunes range from great good luck to great bad luck (luckily the worst we’ve got is “pretty good”). Some of the more popular temples like the Golden Temple in Kyoto have fortunes in English.

If you get a bad fortune, make sure you leave it at the temple to avert the bad luck—there are dedicated areas to tie them. If it’s a good fortune, you should carry it with you.

39) Meditate at a Zen Garden

Zen Buddhist temples usually feature kare-sansui or dry landscape gardens made from rocks and gravel carefully raked into patterns that suggest rippling water. They are simple, elegant, and the perfect place to meditate.

Kyoto is the best place to find Zen temples. Ryoan-ji Temple is the most famous (and crowded), and we enjoyed the gardens at Kennin-ji and Kodai-ji (especially when the cherry tree is in bloom).

At Entoku-in we had the chance to create our own miniature garden.

40) Visit a Temple at Night

In the spring cherry blossom and autumn leaf seasons some temples open at night.

They are beautifully illuminated, sometimes feature special light shows, and it feels like a different experience visiting in the dark.

We especially enjoyed night visits to Kiyomizu-dera and Kodai-ji in Kyoto.

41) See the Giant Buddha at Nara

Nara is a wonderful day trip from Kyoto . It was Japan’s first permanent capital and is full of historic treasures including many UNESCO world heritage sites.

The highlight is the immense Daibutsu-den (Hall of the Great Buddha) at Todaiji. It’s the largest wooden building in the world and houses the 15-metre tall gold and bronze statue of Buddha that dates back to 751.

Nearby Kasuga Taisha Shrine is also well worth visiting with its many buildings on a wooded hillside. Look out for the thousands of deer in Nara Park.

42) Explore the Temples at Nikko

Temple fans shouldn’t miss Nikko, a mountain town full of UNESCO World Heritage temples a few hours north of Tokyo.

Many people visit on a day trip, but it’s worth staying overnight to get an early start and avoid the crowds.

Toshogu Shrine is the main attraction and features more than a dozen lavishly decorated red and gold buildings amongst huge, ancient cedar trees.

I also recommend playing games at atmospheric Futarasan-jinja and hiking up the mountain to the tranquil Takino shrine.

43) Get Off the Beaten Track at Otagi Nenbutsuji

One of my favourite temples in Kyoto is the quirky Otagi Nenbutsuji in the lovely Arashiyama neighbourhood.

It’s much quieter than other temples in the area, and the shady temple complex features 1200 stone sculptures of the Buddha’s disciples all with different facial expressions and poses from scary to serene.

44) Stay Overnight on Miyajima Island

Miyajima Island is known for the famous torii gate at Itsukushima Shrine that seems to float in the sea at high tide.

The island is easy to combine with Hiroshima and offers a taste of Japan’s natural beauty—forest temples, roaming deer, and stunning sea views from Mt Misen, reached by cable car or strenuous hike.

Miyajima does attract large crowds, though, so the best way to appreciate its charm is to stay overnight and enjoy the tranquillity once the day trippers have left.

Iwaso Ryokan offers a traditional inn experience in the perfect location just a short walk from the sights. Our multi-course dinner was excellent, and we loved tottering down to the torii gate at night in the provided yukata and geta.

There’s so much more to Japan than the cities. You’ll find many gorgeous mountains, lakes, islands, waterfalls, rivers, rice fields, and forests.

Temples and shrines are also often in beautiful natural settings, so see the section above as well.

Here are just some of the top things to do in Japan in nature. There are many other options to experience Japan on foot, bike, boat, and skis.

45) Attempt to See Mount Fuji

For many people the iconic Mount Fuji is a top Japan sightseeing spot. The perfectly shaped volcano is Japan’s highest mountain at 3776 metres, and it’s especially lovely in the winter and spring when it is snow-capped.

The best towns to see Mount Fuji from are the hot spring resort Hakone or the Fuji Five Lakes area (especially the lakeside town Kawaguchiko). We’ve enjoyed visits to both, but the view is better at Kawaguchiko as it’s closer.

Mount Fuji is elusive, though, and is often obscured by clouds. It’s best to allow a few days in the area to increase your chances of seeing the peak.

You can also climb Mount Fuji but only in July and August and it’s a challenging climb.

Read our guide to visiting Lake Kawaguchi for the best places to see Mount Fuji and other tips.

46) Loop Around Hakone

While Hakone is a great place to see Mount Fuji, it also has a lot to offer when the mountain is hiding behind clouds.

With the Hakone Freepass you get unlimited rides on transport in the area and can follow a fun loop which includes a pirate ship cruise across Lake Ashi, ropeway (cable car) up a mountain to Owakudani, an active volcanic valley, and a train through the mountains.

Hakone is the perfect spot to stay in a ryokan with onsen. We liked staying by Lake Ashi for more chances to see Mt Fuji. Our Japan 2 week itinerary has some suggestions.

47) Go Cherry Blossom Viewing

Japan in spring lives up to the hype. The fleeting sakura (cherry blossoms) are truly spectacular, and they are everywhere, not just limited to a certain park or canal.

It’s a joyous time of year when locals hit the parks for hanami picnics and eat cherry-blossom-themed food.

Kyoto and Tokyo are excellent famous cherry blossom spots, but we also enjoyed Okayama where it wasn’t as crowded.

Early April is usually the peak sakura season, but it is never guaranteed.

See our guide to the best cherry blossom spots in Kyoto .

48) Enjoy the Stunning Autumn Colours

While not quite as iconic as spring, autumn in Japan is just as stunning.

In temples and parks, maple trees turn shades of yellow, orange, and scarlet, creating an amazingly colourful scene.

While momiji (red leaves) can be found all over the country, Kyoto is one of the best spots. Our favourite temples in autumn were Eikando, Enkoji, and Jojakkoji, but there are so many options.

Autumn colours usually peak in Kyoto and Tokyo in late November. If you are visiting Japan earlier, head to higher elevations or travel further north (in Hokkaido the peak is early October).

49) Cycle the Countryside

A fantastic way to experience rural Japan is by bike. We really enjoyed a group cycling tour with Satoyama Experience from the adorable town of Hida-Furukawa near Takayama.

We learnt about local traditions and cycled past rice fields, rivers, mountains, and idyllic villages.

We also did a DIY half-day trip along the Kibiji Bike Path past beautiful off-the-beaten-path temples, rice fields, and cherry blossoms.

From Okayama take the train to Bizen-Ichinomiya where you can hire a bike one-way to Soja then hop on the train back from there.

See my post on things to do in Okayama, Japan for more details on the Kibiji Bike Trail.

50) Ride Over the Bridges of the Shimanami Kaido Bike Path

One of our favourite off-the-beaten-track activities in Japan was cycling the Shimanami Kaido, a road and bike trail that crosses six small islands in the Seto Inland Sea.

It starts from Onomichi, a charming seaside town an hour east of Hiroshima, and ends 70km later on the island of Shikoku.

Some people cycle the whole thing in one or two days, perhaps staying overnight on one of the islands. We did a day trip from Onomichi instead, cycling 30km to Setoda and taking the ferry back.

Onomichi is well worth a day as well (don’t miss Pour, Simon’s favourite coffee shop in Japan).

51) Walk Through a Bamboo Forest (But Not in Arashiyama)

There’s something magical and very Japanese about a bamboo forest with its towering green stalks swaying in the breeze.

By far the most popular bamboo forest in Japan is in Arashiyama in Kyoto, which is considered one of the best things to see in Japan.

Honestly, it’s so crowded that I much prefer the smaller bamboo groves that you find in temples such as Jizo-in, Kodai-ji, and Jojakko-ji. I encourage you to seek out a more peaceful bamboo forest for yourself.

52) Visit the Art Island of Naoshima

Naoshima is a rural island in the Seto Inland Sea that has been transformed into a hub of contemporary art. We visited as a day trip from Okayama and hired e-bikes to cycle the island (it’s not very big).

As well as enjoying beautiful coastal views we saw Yayoi Kusama’s famous yellow and red pumpkins and visited several art museums and the unique Art House Project with installations spread over abandoned houses.

See our Naoshima Island itinerary for everything you need to know for a wonderful day here.

53) Stroll a Japanese Garden

You can’t visit Japan and not take a stroll through a traditional garden. There are many styles of Japanese gardens and they all highlight the beauty of nature and avoid artificial components where possible.

Classic elements include moss-covered rocks, carp-filled ponds, stone lanterns, wooden teahouses, maple trees, and cherry blossoms. Many are found at temples.

There are so many to choose from, but some of my favourites are the tiny but exquisite Gyokusen-en Gardens in Kanazawa, Shinjuku Gyoen in Tokyo, and the grounds of Jojakko-ji Temple in Arashiyama, Kyoto.

The moss garden at Saihoji Temple in Kyoto is also exceptional and worth the higher price (book two months in advance). See my guide to Saihoji the Kyoto Moss Temple for details.

54) Hike the Historic Nakasendo Trail

The Nakasendo Trail connected Tokyo and Kyoto during the Edo period. Along the journey through the mountains there were many “post towns” where lords and samurai could stop to rest at traditional inns and soak in hot springs.

You can still do a half-day hike on the most scenic part of the trail from Tsumago to Magome (5 miles/ 3 hours).

A typhoon prevented us from doing the walk, but we still enjoyed our stay in the picture-perfect traditional Japanese village of Tsumago, which is well-preserved with many wooden buildings.

55) See Traditional Thatched Houses at Hida Folk Village

We thought the Hida Folk Village near Takayama would be too touristy, but the open-air museum is a beautiful place, especially in the autumn.

It features traditional thatched houses from across the Hida region that were moved to the museum in 1971. It was fascinating to see what life was like for rural Japanese in the Edo period.

Another option if you have more time is to stay in one of the Gassho-style thatched houses in the village of Shirakawa-go (50 minutes by bus from Takayama).

56) Walk from Kibune to Kurama

A worthwhile half-day trip from Kyoto is to take a 30-minute train ride to the village of Kibune in the Kitayama Mountains. From there you can walk through the forest over the mountain to Kurama-dera, a temple with fantastic views.

Continue to the village of Kurama where you can have a tasty vegetarian lunch at Yoshuji or soak in an onsen before hopping on the train back to Kyoto. The 5km (3 mile) hike took us two hours.

Or in the summer you can hike it in the opposite direction and finish with a meal on a platform over the river in Kibune.

It’s an easy, peaceful, and beautiful escape from the city.

See our post on the best places to visit in Japan for our top recommendations.

Kyoto and Tokyo are the most popular destinations for first-time visitors and are a good combination for seeing the traditional and modern sides of the country.

I also recommend spending at least one night (more if you have time) in more rural locations such as Hakone (for Mount Fuji), Takayama (for traditional wooden houses), Nikko (for temples), or Koya-san (for an overnight temple stay).

Here’s our recommended Japan 2 week itinerary .

See our other Japan blog posts for more tips:

• Planning a Trip to Japan: Dos and Don’ts
• 26 Unforgettable Things to Do in Kyoto
• 26 Cool Things to Do in Tokyo
• Is a Japan Rail Pass Worth it?
• Where to Stay in Japan: A Guide to Accommodation Options
• 15 Fascinating Books to Read Before Visiting Japan
• Vegetarian Survival Guide to Japan

I hope this post has given you plenty of ideas for what to do in Japan. Enjoy exploring this weird and wonderful country!

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19 Comments

Hi Erin, Just wanted to thank you for putting this blog so neatly and simple to follow AND including everything that has to be experienced while in Japan in one plater. Definitely will be referring to your blog while we plan our June trip this year. Any advise or tips for traveling with a one year old?! :) Thank you for sharing your experience. Geita :)

Reply ↓

Thanks for your kind words, Geita! We have no experience travelling with kids, but our friends enjoyed Japan with their toddler. Enjoy!

I so happy to have stumbled upon your site. We are only just beginning to plan our Japanese trip and your insights have given us a terrific starting point. Thank you for sharing your experiences and knowledge.

Thanks Tiffany and good luck planning your trip!

Lots of great information in here, thank you for all the tips! I can’t wait to go back and see more of Japan :)

Such a wonderful blog. Thank you for all the tips. What time is best to visit Japan in your opinion? Flight tickets are pricey around the cherry blossom time late March early April.

I don’t think there’s a bad time to visit Japan, but if you want a quieter/cheaper time without the summer heat/winter cold, I’d go for mid/late May or September/October.

Thank you.That information help me.😃

So much of nice and valuable info… keeping things short and sweet is how I like🙂 Thank you Erin!

Always wanted to go to Japan. Thank you for this post is will help in my school poster homework! 🇯🇵

Ok this is amazing things about this tower thing i forgot the name so i just love it cause. because how the tower and the color my favorite color is white ___________________________________________.

Very insightful and helpful. Thank you :)

I want to genuinely thank you for sharing your experience and trips. as they have been incredibly helpful in planning my own 25 day trip in January. I will be visiting around ten or more of the locations you’ve shared and a dozen of the activities you listed. I do have one question i was hoping you could help with!! I would love to propose to my current girl friend on valentines day 02/14/2019, do you have any tips on how to make it extra special? A breathtaking view or romantic ambiance perhaps? Thank you again!!

I’m so glad we could help, Larry!

What about staying in a ryokan at Lake Kawaguchiko with a private onsen on your balcony with a Mount Fuji view? It’ll be snow-capped and you might even have snow on the ground. You are more likely to get clear days in winter (to see the mountain) and you’ll appreciate the onsen in the cold!

Our Kawaguchiko post has a few ryokan recommendations such as Fujikawaguchiko Onsen Konanso: https://www.neverendingvoyage.com/lake-kawaguchiko/

Hi, You have absolutely did great job and amazing writing of this information. I am planning a trip to Japan in mid December till first week of January and you seem to have quite good information where to go. Would you recommend places (cities and villages) where to go during this period? I like the hot springs and maybe Mount Fuji, though I am not much into snow activities. I mean not skying (maybe Sapporo snow festival) I like technologies (museums and shows) and strange things where you cannot see it but in such places like Japan. I like anime like Naruto , etc.. would be nice to see something related. I am not sure if it is good idea to do Hida folk village or Beaten Track at Otagi Nenbutsuji or shrines (in general) as they are outdoors and not sure if they’re affected by the weather?

I appreciate your advise. Thank you

As long as you bring warm clothes you should be fine visiting shrines etc in the winter (and they’ll be quieter).

I recommend Tokyo, Kyoto, Hakone or Kawaguchiko for Mt Fuji, and maybe a smaller onsen town like Kinosaki Onsen.

Our friends visited in December and here was their itinerary: https://bridgesandballoons.com/japan-itinerary-10-days/

Hello! Have you been to Osaka? What can you tell me about it? I am thinking of a 5 day stay in Tokyo, 3 day stay in Kyoto and maybe 2 in Osaka do you recommend it?

Yes, we love Osaka! I think your plan sounds good. Osaka has fantastic food, is less expensive than Tokyo and Kyoto, and Dotonburi at night is lots of fun. We also love Universal Japan there but on a short trip you probably wouldn’t want to use up a day there unless you are a huge Harry Potter/theme park fan.

If you can manage to fly into Tokyo and out of Osaka (Kansai airport) or the other way around, you’ll save travel time.

japan never appeared on my bucket list,but now,wow,i cant wait,thanks for this wonderful guide,kyoto sounds unbelievable,what a lovely scribe,filled w/passion,sincere thanks,the anxious 1,mr.cooper

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• Things to Do

55 of the Best Things to Do When Traveling in Japan

• Steve Csorgo

With a vibrant mix of modern and traditional cultures coupled with abundant nature, remarkable cuisine, and world-renowned hospitality, travelers to Japan have no shortage of things to do! To help plan a Japanese itinerary that doesn’t miss any of the good stuff, we have compiled an extensive, carefully curated list of the 55 best things to do in Japan. Take note of the ones that pique your interest and start planning your ultimate Japan adventure today!

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

1. Get Views of Mt. Fuji

Being the tallest and most iconic mountain in Japan, there are plenty of vantage points surrounding Mt. Fuji to rediscover its splendor time and time again. Even if you’ve seen it before, fully appreciating the grandeur of this sacred mountain requires far more than just a single viewing. Arguably the most famous view of Mt. Fuji is from Arakurayama Sengen Park, which frames the mountain alongside a dazzling vermillion pagoda forming the quintessential Japan image (pictured above). Another hotspot is Ashinoko Lake in Hakone, which is also visited for its giant floating torii gate at Hakone Shrine and pirate ship boat tours.

Other locations worth checking out include Oishi Park and Yamanakako Hananomiyako Park in Yamanashi Prefecture, Miho no Matsubara, Obuchi Sasaba, and the Kumomi Shore in Shizuoka Prefecture, and Tateishi Park, Hiroyama Park, and Hakone in Kanagawa Prefecture. If you’re short on time, you don’t even have to leave Tokyo to bask in the magnificence of Mt. Fuji! While a little distant, if the weather is just right, you’ll be able to get stunning Mt. Fuji views from Tokyo Skytree, Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, and the Carrot Tower in Setagaya. However, while each area is worth visiting on its own, views of Mt. Fuji are often shrouded by clouds, particularly during the rainy season in summer. Don’t be too disappointed if you miss out!

2. Ride a Shinkansen Bullet Train

Making domestic travel smooth, efficient, and relaxing, riding one of Japan’s cutting-edge “shinkansen” bullet trains is just as thrilling as the destinations themself! There are numerous bullet train lines connecting major cities transporting travelers from the very bottom of southern Kyushu all the way to the northern island of Hokkaido. Most race along at well over 200 km/h while remaining whisper quiet and unbelievably smooth. Before boarding, you can ramp up the fun by purchasing a delicious “ekiben” lunch box at the station!

3. Shop For Anime Goods at Akihabara

For many, a trip to Japan is all about anime and manga, and there’s nowhere better for this than the “otaku” holyland of Akihabara. Akihabara is a neighborhood of Tokyo characterized by flashy, lively streets filled with shops selling manga, figurines, collectables, cosplay, media, games, consoles, and more alongside a variety of electronics and computer parts. While the sheer scale can be overwhelming, simply soaking in the atmosphere and casually checking out a few stores is enough to satisfy most people. Of course, if you’re willing to dive in deep, an entire world of various Japanese subcultures awaits you!

If you'd rather have an expert show you around, the  Akihabara Anime & Game Tour  will take you to local, hidden-gem game shops you'd never find on your own.

4. Feast on Ramen at Ganso Ramen Yokocho

Out of the numerous ramen havens throughout Japan, the sheer number of high-quality outlets concentrated in Sapporo makes it an undisputed paradise for ramen-orientated gourmands. While variations are plentiful, Sapporo ramen is generally characterized by a rich, fatty broth flavored with miso with medium-thick curly noodles topped by corn and other vegetables with a dollop of butter.

While high-quality Sapporo ramen is served throughout the entire city, one of the biggest collections is tucked away in Ganso Ramen Yokocho. Literally meaning “original ramen alley,” this gourmet corner is nestled within the nightlife district of Susukino and hosts several of Sapporo’s and Hokkaido’s most esteemed ramen brands. This includes eminent names like Shirakaba Sansou, Teshikaga Ramen, Higuma, and more!

5. Treat Yourself to Kawaii Cuteness at a Maid Cafe

Lavish yourself in the service of adorable maids (or butlers) at one of Japan’s legendary maid cafes. Alongside serving food and drink, the maids will encourage you to play games, sing and chant, and have photos taken together, making it far more interactive than most lunches! The menus tend to be based around simple, hearty meals and desserts like omurice (rice omelet), curries, parfaits, and ice cream soda, which are often spiced up by the maids with cute drawings using sauce. One of the most popular maid cafes is the @Home Cafe , which has 6 branches in Akihabara alone.

6. Join a Hanami Cherry Blossom Party

From around late March to early April, many of the streets, parks, and riversides of Japan will turn a pastel pink by the blooming “sakura” cherry blossoms. Japanese locals make the most of this by throwing “hanami” (flower-viewing) parties to fully relish the seasonal splendor while eating and drinking with friends. Whether you’re traveling as a group or going solo, you can easily hold your own hanami party by visiting an area with cherry blossoms, getting some drinks/food from a nearby convenience store, and laying down a picnic rug. There’s also a hoard of cherry blossom-themed snacks and beverages on sale during this period worth sampling too! Just be sure to clean up all your trash after finishing and double check park opening hours and regulations.

7. See a Kabuki Show

Kabuki is a flamboyant style of traditional Japanese theater blending performance, dance, and song that originated during the early Edo period (1603-1867) and peaked in the mid-18th century. Kabuki actors wear glamorous costumes with heavy makeup and perform in specially designed theaters with trap doors and revolving platforms known as “kabuki-za.” Kabuki plays boast a wide variety of different themes and genres, including renditions of famous historical events, portrayals of everyday townspeople, classical Japanese dance, and even some modern iterations incorporating anime characters and more! While no longer in its heyday, it remains popular as a treasured cultural icon and quintessential Japanese experience. The Tokyo Kabukiza Theater in Ginza holds performances almost everyday with English support available, and there are also theaters in Osaka, Kyoto, Fukuoka, and more.

8. Visit a Famous Japanese Castle

With one in virtually every region, there is no shortage of castles to explore in Japan. In fact, planning your itinerary around castles, known as “castle hopping,” is a popular way to tour many of Japan’s best cities and towns. Unfortunately, disaster, modernization, and time have destroyed the majority of Japanese castles, resulting in most being ruins or reconstructions.

Of course, ruins and reconstructions are worth visiting in their own right, however, they are no match for the 12 original Japanese castles built during or before the Edo period (1603-1867). With every nook and cranny hiding a fascinating intricacy rewarding keen eyes, these incredibly well-preserved castles offer stark insight into the character and architecture of feudal Japan. Notable original castles include the “castle in the sky” Bitchu Matsuyama Castle, the maze-like Matsumoto Castle, and Himeji Castle, the largest in the country (pictured above).

9. Pray at a Japanese Shrine and Temple

Alongside castles, the most iconic traditional Japanese buildings are the endless array of shrines and temples. In Japan, shrines serve to enshrine deities known as “kami” of the Japanese-born Shinto religion. Temples, meanwhile, are Buddhist centers of worship enshrining sacred statues and hosting monks as they perform rituals and training. While somewhat similar, temples and shrines are easily distinguishable, with shrines featuring torii gates (pictured above) while temples are often (but not always) more ornate and adorned with Buddhist statues and bells.

Despite being different religions, Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples enjoy a harmonious relationship, with many temples hosting shrines and vice versa. There are over 75,000 temples and 80,000 shrines across Japan, each with its own unique charm, history, and surroundings. You can freely enter the grounds of most shrines and temples, with only a small donation sometimes required. Some of the most notable shrines include Ise Jingu in Mie, Itsukushima Shrine in Hiroshima, Meiji Jingu Shrine in Tokyo, and Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto. Some of the most popular temples include Kiyomizu-dera and Kinkakuji in Kyoto, Senso-ji Temple in Tokyo, and Todai-ji Temple in Nara.

10. Wear a Kimono or Yukata

Kimono are traditional Japanese garments primarily worn in the modern era on special occasions or celebrations. Kimono literally means “clothing” in Japanese and refers to all kinds of traditional clothes suiting various events, times, genders, and ages. One type of kimono is the yukata, which is made from cotton or polyester and designed to be light and cool to be worn in summer. It’s perfectly acceptable for non-Japanese people to respectfully wear a kimono or yukata, and there are lots of stores offering rental and dressing services. With lots of fiddly folds and strings, you’ll definitely need a professional fitter to help you put it on! Once you’re all dressed up, complete the picture by wandering one of Japan’s numerous old towns to blend into the retro atmosphere!

11. Shop Till You Drop at a Shotengai

“Shotengai” (lit. “shop street”) are shopping arcades aimed at the local community adored for their nostalgic, rustic atmosphere. While far from the hippest joints with the latest trends, they instead offer an authentic peek into the character of a neighborhood with a great range of hearty food, thrifty shopping, and local specialities. You can find shotengai in virtually every city and town of Japan, with some of the most famous being the Nakamise Shopping Street, Ameya-Yokocho, and Yanaka Ginza in Tokyo, Shinsaibashi-Suji Shopping Street in Osaka, the Heiwa-dori in Atami, and the Kawabata Shopping Arcade in Fukuoka.

12. Sample Traditional Japanese Sweets

Before pocky was all the rage, Japan had a flourishing traditional confectionery culture of “wagashi” sweets that can still be enjoyed today. Wagashi brim with creative artistic flair often based around the characteristics of the four seasons. They are generally made from natural ingredients like rice, flour, and beans which are boiled, kneaded, and steamed to yield a gentle sweetness and satisfying bite. Rather than being guzzled down handfuls at a time, wagashi are best savored in small amounts alongside a bowl of matcha. Common wagashi include mochi, manju, daifuku, dango, and yokan. You can find wagashi shops all throughout Japan, particularly in traditional districts, hot spring towns, and Japanese gardens.

13. Eat Yourself Silly in Osaka

For those who prefer doing away with refinement to chow down on mouth-watering delicacies handfuls at a time, the Osaka gourmet scene is for you! The entire city is jam-packed with casual eateries serving up fresh local grub, with the cream of the crop found by the iconic canalside Dotonbori district. Here you can pick up Osaka specialties like “takoyaki” fried octopus balls and “okonomiyaki” pancakes along with super tasty renditions of Japanese classics like tonkatsu, ramen, sushi, and more.

This  Daytime Dotonbori Walking Food Tour in Osaka  takes you to both popular and hidden spots in the area, taking the stress out of navigating the hectic streets of Osaka yourself.

14. Ride a Scenic Train

With stunning scenery, elegant interiors, and accommodating service, a journey on a scenic or themed train takes the impeccable Japanese train system to a spectacular new level. Highlights include a woodfire stove meal on the Rail Kitchen Chikugo in Fukuoka, royal treatment on the sophisticated THE ROYAL EXPRESS in Kanagawa/Shizuoka, and stargazing at night on the HIGH RAIL 1375 in Nagano/Yamanashi. Search online to see if a scenic train lines up with your Japan itinerary!

15. Tour a Sake Brewery

The national beverage of Japan is sake - a fermented rice wine with thousands of years of history. Virtually every region of Japan has its own brewery utilizing local ingredients to craft a drink that suits the neighborhood palate. Many are also set up to welcome tourists with comprehensive brewery tours and tastings.

Some of the most tourist-friendly sake breweries in Japan include Hakkaisan Brewery and Imayotsukasa Brewery in Niigata, Ozawa Brewery in Tokyo, Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum in Kyoto, and the Kiku-Masamune Sake Brewery Museum in Hyogo. There are also entire neighborhoods dotted with several sake breweries all within walking distance, such as the Higashinada Ward of Kobe, Fushimi Ward of Kyoto, and Kashima in Saga. Some tours and tastings are completely free, while others are not, so confirm if you need to pay in advance. While you’re at it, there are also shochu and whiskey distilleries throughout Japan equally worth a look, such as the Yoichi Whiskey Distillery in Hokkaido and Hombo Shuzo shochu distillery in Kagoshima.

16. Take Purikura Photos

Despite the age of smartphones, purikura remains a popular Japanese photo booth experience allowing friends to take selfies enhanced with dazzling and bizarre effects. Purikura often sit within gaming arcades and generally cost between 200-400 yen for a reel of 5-8 passport-sized photos. The range of options available will depend on each machine, however, you’ll generally be able to add digital effects, drawings, stickers, dates, and more while the computer automatically touches up your face, eyes, and body. For some, the final result will look hilarious, making for a great souvenir of Japan!

17. Watch a Sumo Match

Sumo wrestling, the national sport of Japan, needs no introduction! There are loads of opportunities to catch a sumo match in Japan, including the 6 annual nationwide “basho” tournaments along with various exhibitions and smaller matches in between. You can either book your ticket in advance or simply turn up on the day, however, events with popular wrestlers or highly anticipated matches may sell out, so best to secure your spot early.

There are a number of differently priced tickets each corresponding to a seat type, including highly coveted ringside seats, box seats, and various balcony seats. The Ryogoku district of Tokyo is considered the heartland of sumo and offers fans a number of ways to discover and admire the sport. This includes sumo stables open to the public, the Sumo Museum, the Ryogoku Kokugikan National Sumo Stadium, and the nearby Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine, which is believed to be the birthplace of sumo.

18. Pick Up Snacks at a Conbini

Around almost every corner of Japan lies a “conbini” hosting a treasure trove of snacks, refreshments, meals, magazines, daily essentials, and more. Classic snacks include Pocky, Pretz, Choco Pie, Yukimi Daifuku, Kit Kats, Takenoko no Sato, pudding, and rice crackers, all of which are super cheap and a great pick-me-up for tired travelers. There are also traditional Japanese confectioneries like mochi and dango alongside a staggering range of potato chips, instant ramen, dried meats, ice creams, chocolate, tea and coffee, alcoholic beverages, bread, desserts, and more! Once you feel you’ve conquered the conbini, try visiting a Japanese supermarket for an even bigger range often at better prices!

19. Participate in a Japanese Tea Ceremony

Known as “sado” or “chanoyu,” the ancient ritual of the Japanese tea ceremony is one of its most exquisite cultural arts. Tea culture in Japan has profound roots tracing back to the Buddhist monks of the Kamakura period (1185-1333), with specialized tea rooms, rituals, and tools being introduced later by tea master Sen no Rikyu in the 1500s.

In short, a tea ceremony is about preparing a bowl of matcha with a bamboo whisk and serving it to guests alongside a small traditional sweet while observing several rules and customs. If this sounds intimidating, you can first try ordering a casual matcha set at a historical residence in gardens like Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden in Tokyo, Ritsurin Garden in Takamatsu, and Korakuen in Okayama. These are generally similar to cafes and allow patrons to turn up in casual clothes and enjoy tea at their leisure. If you want to go all out, there are more intensive tea ceremony classes with kimono rental educating students on the correct way to sit, make tea, eat, and drink, putting you on the road to becoming a Japanese tea master!

20. Eat Conveyor Belt or High-End Sushi

While you’re in Japan, don’t miss the opportunity to gorge yourself on as much sushi as possible! With a mind-boggling diversity of ingredients, tastes, styles, and more, one or two sushi encounters is simply not enough!

There are two main styles of sushi establishment in Japan - counter/restaurant and conveyor belt. Counters/restaurants are generally small, cozy, and more expensive than conveyor belts, which tend to be affordable and casual. If you’re seeking a classy, intimate ambience, opt for a restaurant. If you want to simply chow down on as much inexpensive sushi as you can handle without fuss, then head for a conveyor belt. Be aware that exceptions do exist, such as pricey, top-tier conveyor belt sushi and dodgy sushi counters, so do your research before heading out. To increase your chances of finding the best, visit either style in a renowned seafood district or town like Hakodate, Niigata, Kanazawa, Toyama, or Shizuoka, or find a reputable joint within Tokyo.

21. Get Your Game on at a Japanese Arcade

Relive those nostalgic days spent in the arcade at a Japanese game center ! These bombastic, high-energy hubs are packed with classic titles like Mario Kart, Dance Dance Revolution, and Taiko no Tatsujin alongside a lineup of crane games to win merchandise from beloved franchises. Japanese gaming arcades can be found all throughout the country and, while games are generally not available in English, most are easy enough to figure out. Many are concentrated around pop culture hubs like Akihabara, Ikebukuro, and Odaiba.

22. Indulge in Traditional “Kaiseki Ryori” Cuisine

If your budget allows it, treating yourself to the traditional Japanese haute cuisine “kaiseki ryori” is a must. While available at restaurants, the best way to enjoy kaiseki ryori is at a traditional “ryokan” inn together with hot springs and tatami room accommodation for the ultimate Japan experience. Kaiseki ryori consists of several small, individual dishes each presenting a different kind of food and cooking style often with seasonal local ingredients.

While you’re free to do as you like, the dishes are generally intended to be eaten in a certain order. This starts from the “sakizuke” appetizer leading into dishes like “mukozuke” sashimi, “yakimono” grilled food, “suimono” soup, “takiawase” simmered vegetables and meats, “sukiyaki” hot pots, rice, dessert, and more! While separated, each serving is carefully crafted to complement the others, weaving together a symphony of tastes sure to delight.

23. Feel the Magic of a Fireworks Show

Hundreds of breathtaking fireworks displays are held in Japan all throughout the year, with many of them concentrated around the “obon” summer holidays. The top three shows in Japan are the Omagari Fireworks Festival in Akita in August, the Nagaoka Festival Grand Fireworks Show in Niigata in August, and the Tsuchiura All Japan Fireworks Competition in Ibaraki in November. As for Tokyo , the most famous fireworks are the Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival in July, the Adachi Fireworks Festival in May, and the Edogawa Fireworks Festival in August.

Even outside the warmer months, there are plenty of winter fireworks worth braving the cold for, like the Atami Fireworks Fair on the Sea in Shizuoka, ISOGAI Theatrical Fireworks in Nagoya, and the Otaru Snow Fireworks in Hokkaido, all of which are in December. Just keep in mind that bigger events will draw in huge crowds, so you’ll likely have to wait a while for public transport.

24. Binge Comics at the Kyoto International Manga Museum

The Kyoto International Manga Museum has amassed a phenomenal collection of 300,000 manga and related materials ranging from Edo period (1603-1867) caricatures, Meiji era (1868-1912) magazines, modern hit manga, and even western comics! Best of all, over 50,000 manga can be freely picked up and read from The Wall of Manga - with some English prints available too! The fascinating exhibitions will walk you through the development of manga, showcasing its deep ties to Japanese history and culture. You can also try your hand at manga drawing or watch pro “mangaka” as they work their magic!

25. Channel Your Inner Warrior With a Samurai Experience

Embodying bravery, stoicism, and finesse, the samurai legend has become immortalized through countless films, novels, anime, and more. Even in modern Japan, samurai culture, fashion, and weaponry can be enjoyed through samurai experiences complete with photoshoots and more.

One of the best places to try this is at Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura in Tochigi, a theme park recreating a traditional Edo period (1603-1867) townscape. Alongside samurai, you can choose to dress up as a ronin, shinsengumi, princess, oiran, or samurai daughter to blend in with the retro atmosphere. There is also a “samurai training center” offering an authentic samurai training program, including lessons on katana maintenance and samurai etiquette. Katana swordplay lessons are also popular across Japan, with some notable places being the Waraku Kyoto Samurai Experience and Samurai & Ninja Interactive Museum & Show in Kyoto.

There are also just as many ninja experiences to be had, such as at the Koka Ninja Village in Shiga and Toei Kyoto Studio Park. A quick search online will bring up dozens of English-supported samurai and ninja activities and tours, so you shouldn’t have any difficulties finding one you like!

Next Page: 26-55 More Exciting Spots and Activities in Japan!

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

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Top 10 Things to Do in Japan

In a nation as culturally rich as Japan, it can be hard to know how to spend your time there. Here are ten of our favorite things to do.

Visit Kyoto’s Ancient Sites Japan’s capital from 794 to 1868, Kyoto is bathed in history. The most iconic remnant of the city’s imperial past is the outrageously gilded Kinkakuji, once a shogun’s retirement villa and now a Zen Buddhist temple. Perched on the bank of a serene pond, Kinkakuji casts a famed golden reflection in the water. Just as captivating are Kyoto’s less ostentatious sites, such as the minimalist and cryptic dry landscape garden at Ryoanji . In all, Kyoto boasts 17 World Heritage sites (Kinkakuji and Ryoanji included), but with some 2,000 temples and shrines across the city, not to mention numerous gardens, they represent a fraction of Kyoto’s alluring heritage.

Overnight in a Temple Mount Koya has been a place of pilgrimage since the monk Kobo Daishi was inspired to found the Shingon school of Buddhism amid its ancient cedars in the ninth century. Among the highlights of a visit—besides wandering the eerie, almost primeval Okunoin cemetery and the multitude of temples built in Daishi’s honor—is the opportunity to stay with the monks at one of Koya’s mountaintop temples. Eko-in is one of nearly 50 such places open to guests, and it offers a typical Koya experience—a Spartan and tranquil tatami-mat room, a multi-course vegetarian dinner exquisitely presented on lacquerware, and the chance to join the monks and pilgrims for early morning prayers.

Gallery Hop on "Art Island" With three major galleries and many smaller art venues, picturesque Naoshima in the Seto Inland Sea is a standout on Japan’s contemporary art scene. The best of the galleries is the Tadao Ando-designed Benesse House , a sleek hotel and gallery that hosts work by artists such as David Hockney, Bruce Nauman, and Frank Stella.But art isn’t restricted to conventional spaces on Naoshima. Nineteen dazzling outdoor installations dot Benesse’s beachfront grounds, while in the laidback fishing village of Honmura, several of the old wooden buildings have been transformed into permanent art installations. Even the island’s I Love Yu public baths have had a pop-art makeover. Naoshima has been dubbed “Art Island” for good reason.

Ski Niseko This small ski resort town in Hokkaido boasts the finest powder in the country and three major ski resorts to match: Niseko Village, Niseko Annupuri, and the Grand Hirafu/Hanazono.Away from the resorts, the allure is prime backcountry powder and ample opportunities for ice climbing, telemark skiing, and boarding through virgin snow. It’s not bad in summer either, when winter activities give way to summer favorites like whitewater rafting, mountain biking, and kayaking. And Niseko also has a year-round draw—mineral-rich hot springs perfect for soaking away aches and pains from a day on the slopes.

Experience Traditional Accommodation The gentle scent of tatami, the understated elegance of the interiors, the meticulous service, the outdoor hot spring baths, the multi-course meal of local seasonal produce, the calming silence—all combine to make a night at a traditional Japanese inn, or ryokan, an unforgettable experience.Unforgettable, but not cheap, with room and meals that can reach ¥100,000 per night. Fortunately, Japan has all bases covered—the smaller and less formal minshuku, which provide a similarly traditional though less luxurious experience, are usually less than ¥10,000 a night.

Soak in a Natural Hot Spring There is something quintessentially Japanese about getting naked for a soak with strangers. In fact, the Japanese have been using communal onsen, or natural hot spring waters, to relax and heal for centuries—the earliest mention dating back 1,300 years to bathers in Dogo, Shikoku.Dogo is still one of the country’s most renowned onsen resorts. The grand, three-storey Dogo Onsen Honkan at the center of the resort is a 19th-century architectural gem complete with a bathing room (albeit unused nowadays) set aside for the imperial family. Not that you need venture to Dogo for a good soak—there are thousands of public baths and ryokan with onsen across the country, all worth stripping off for.

Explore Tokyo’s Old East Side Sensoji, a Buddhist temple in Asakusa, is about as touristy as it gets in Tokyo. Head a few blocks in any direction, however, and the tourists soon give way to a part of the capital that has never strayed far from its pre-war status as the city’s premier entertainment district.Most representative of that is the tiny Hanayashiki Amusement Park , home to retro rides that include the country’s first (and possibly most sedate) rollercoaster. Nearby is Rokku Broadway, where historic theaters like Engei Hall put on a bill packed with slapstick comedy and traditional comic storytelling. Not surprisingly, the area also teems with good watering holes—like Kamiya Bar , where the local tipple is a legendary concoction of brandy, gin, and curaçao aptly named Denki Bran (Electric Bran[dy]), first mixed here in the 1880s.

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Hike the Northern Alps The breathtaking peaks of Japan’s Northern Alps are considered the country’s premier hiking grounds. And for good reason—from the small town of Kamikochi , the gateway to the area, visitors have a choice of easy day hikes or week-long adventures that would challenge the fittest of hikers.In the peak of summer, the most popular routes can crawl with weekend hikers, but come on a weekday or wait for autumn and visitors get to experience the Northern Alps’ jagged, nearly 10,000-foot peaks and virgin forests as nature intended—unspoiled by crowds.

Tour Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park and Museum Dedicated to victims of the atomic bombing of August 6, 1945, the Peace Memorial Park and Museum are poignant and moving monuments to the horrors of nuclear weapons.The disfigured frame of the park’s A-Bomb Dome, one of the few buildings in central Hiroshima to survive the blast, serves as a vivid reminder of the destruction that befell the city. Other parts of the park are equally evocative—none more so than the Children’s Peace Monument. Built in memory of one of the many children who died from leukemia as a result of the fallout, it’s always decorated with origami cranes of hope sent from children across Japan.

Sample the "B-Grade Gourmet Japan is known for fine cuisine like sushi, tempura, and kaiseki, but its low-cost culinary underbelly (“B-grade gourmet,” as the Japanese call it) is just as mouth watering. The king of the B, ramen noodles, are ubiquitous, filling, and something of a national obsession—some shops are revered enough to have people waiting in line for hours just for a few minutes of ecstatic slurping.Not that it’s all good. Some, like the vending machine hotdog or convenience store fried noodle sandwich, should probably be labeled "Z-grade."

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The must-see places to visit in Japan 日本のベスト観光スポット

• Published on : 05/08/2019
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Discovering Japan: activities and places not to be missed!

What images come to mind when you imagine Japan? The immensity of the capital, Mount Fuji, the temples... We have drawn up a (non-exhaustive) list of emblematic places to see absolutely in Japan.

Japan's first must-see: The effervescence of the megalopolis of Tokyo

Obviously, it is impossible to explore Japan without spending a few days in the "eastern capital", 20 times larger than Paris! Museums, parks, shopping centers, temples, sanctuaries, observation points... There is plenty to do.

To realize Tokyo's grandeur, there's nothing like a first stop in Shibuya . The famous crossing seen and seen again always impresses, when you find yourself in the middle of the crossroads, surrounded by giant screens and Tokyoites in a hurry.

After a caress at Hachiko, the famous dog statue erected in front of the station, head for the Harajuku districts with Takeshita Street and Omotesando , where luxury boutiques, Japanese pancakes, parks and the most popular Shinto shrine in Tokyo mingle: the Meiji . Jingu .

What to see in Tokyo? Discovery of Japan with an activity in Tokyo accompanied by a private English-speaking guide

View of Tokyo Bay from Odaiba

The excess does not stop there, since on the other side of the Rainbow Bridge , Tokyo Bay is home to the artificial island of Odaiba , a leisure paradise for young and old, with these shopping centers, its beaches and its view. beautiful over the big city.

Immerse yourself in history and tradition by visiting Asakusa and Ueno . The impressive Senso-ji temple in the middle of pedestrian streets offers total immersion, if we ignore the many tourists. In Ueno, you can recharge your batteries in the large park by the lotus pond or in the shade of the cherry trees, then greet the pandas at the Zoo or discover the richest collection of Japanese art in the world at the National Museum .

If you want to get up high to contemplate the expanse of the capital and try to catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji, here is a list of the best observation points in Tokyo :

• tokyo skytree

Roppongi Hills Mori Tower

Tokyo City Hall

Sunshine 60

The Tokyo Skytree

Kyoto: Cultural and Spiritual Capital

Thousands of temples and shrines to visit, an authentic and modern city center, Zen gardens and walks in the mountains, geikos at the bend of a street... Kyoto is a concentrate of Japan which has seduced tourists from all over the world. entire ! It's hard to choose among all these magnificent places, but here is our selection by district:

• To the East

The ascent to the famous Kiyomizu dera complex is an adventure that will guide you through the cobbled streets of the city. The path of philosophy is another walk in the Higashiyama district in eastern Kyoto, which will take you from temple to temple, including the magnificent Ginkakuji , nicknamed the Silver Pavilion.

The Kiyomizu dera

jamie nakamura

After the Silver Pavilion comes the Golden Pavilion . Be dazzled by the gold-covered walls of Kinkakuji Temple. Another temple to see in the neighborhood: the Ryoanji . But it is especially its dry garden which made its popularity.

Golden Pavilion - Kinkakuji

In spring or autumn, the hills of Arashiyama will offer you a breathtaking spectacle. With their trees adorned with pink flowers and then red leaves , the walking paths will transport you to the bamboo forest where you can take magnificent pictures.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Traversing the 10,000 red Japanese gates of the Fushimi Inari Taisha through the hills is a unique experience worth the detour. A little out of the way from the big city is the charming Daigoji , a thousand-year- old temple lost at the foot of the mountain.

Daigo-ji Temple

Patrick Vierthaler

• In the center

Finally, we must not forget the heart of the city. The last two tours we offer are Nijo Castle and Yasaka Shrine . Then all you have to do is explore the Gion district which brings together modern and traditional entertainment venues. Keep your eyes open, you may come across a geiko in the less busy streets...

What to do in Kyoto? Activities in Kyoto accompanied by a private English-speaking guide

Must-sees in Japan in the middle of nature

Don't go too far from Kyoto without going to say hello to the Nara shika deer! You will see them claiming cakes from tourists, around the beautiful sites that surround the city. Explore the park, which will take you to the huge Todaiji where you can admire a 15-meter-tall bronze Buddha statue . Then the stairs and the paths between the trees will have plenty of other surprises in store for you.

What to see in Nara? Discover the city with our guided activity!

Deer in Nara

100 kilometers from the capital rises the symbol of Japan. From its height of 3,776 meters, Mount Fuji can be climbed, but especially admired through the region of the 5 lakes . The opportunity to discover the Japanese countryside and explore the surroundings of Japan's highest peak on foot, by bike or even by car thanks to our Mount Fuji 360° tour .

• The Japanese Alps

Right in the center of the main island of the archipelago is an extraordinary mountain range . Great sportsmen or sportswomen, even mountaineers, or simply nature lovers, the hikes and landscapes of the Japanese Alps are worth the detour. Enjoy the onsen after a long day of skiing and alternate with days of historical visits in the region.

Another icon of Japan, the famous red gate of the sanctuary of Itsukushima which takes shape with its feet in the water . A small island that offers magnificent landscapes, between mountains, forest and sea. In autumn, the spectacle is all the more magical with the orange-hued maple trees of Momijidani Park.

What to do in Miyajima? Visit miyajima in one day!

The Miyajima Gate

A little history

• Visit Hiroshima

Not far from Miyajima, return to the main island for a more informative visit to the city of Hiroshima. Between the Peace Memorial Park and its dome in memory of the 1945 tragedy, the Peace Memorial and the Children's Peace Monument, you will be overwhelmed by the history of this bruised city . Don't forget to stop by the castle to discover the adventures of feudal lords in Hiroshima.

what to do in hiroshima? Let yourself be guided by our Travel Angel!

Another castle which marked the history of Japan , but which especially marks the spirits by its beauty and its immaculate white. It has withstood all assaults, earthquakes and fires. Renovated from 2010 to 2015 , the castle of the white heron has regained all its splendour!

Himeji Castle

Of course, there are many other sites to visit in the Land of the Rising Sun, regions to explore without limits, forgotten islands and charming villages. From the north of Hokkaido to the prefecture of Okinawa thousands of kilometers to the south, it would be a shame to stop at the most touristic sites. But everything has to start, and it's hard to know where to start in a country as wealthy as Japan.

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Before you Travel

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Japan is the place to visit to see how the world can be blended in both history and nature with modern technologies, trends, and styles . Boasting 17 UNESCO World Heritages sites , and dotted with temples, Shinto shrines, monuments and other modern wonders of technology, Japan is a country one have to marvel with. But with so many tourist attractions to choose from in cities, towns or even islands, one can get a bit overwhelmed by the choices.

So here is our take for you on Top 10 Must Visit Places in Japan :

Shinjuku street, Tokyo, Japan. Photo by rayand

The capital city of modern Japan and unlike other countries, this is one capital that when travellers came to would not leave in a hurry to other better place or off beaten tracks. Tokyo itself has so much charm and hidden delights that many travellers stay for a long time to discover and experience it all.

Head to Shinjuku to be awed by the skyscrapers across the skies or over to fashion streets like Harajuku or Shibuya to see the youth of today displaying the trends and styles of modern Japan. After that stumble over to Ginza neighbourhood that is well known as a shopping paradise else if that is not your thing, then the old-style temple district may be just right for you. In the morning head to the bustling Tsujiki fish market for an early breakfast of the freshest sashimi and sushi in Japan .

Regardless, Tokyo is one capital city that defies the stereotype and is actually worth visiting just for itself. If you are there during winter, you can even have a ski holiday at a mountain nearby for a quick getaway!

Mention Japan and Kyoto will come to mind to many people, dreamy yet modern, this previous capital of Japan for thousands of years is embedded with rich history and legacy . You will find temples, palaces and gardens that are grand and the epitome of Japan’s rich traditional culture, arts and style and its most refined cuisine.

Kyoto was the main backbone during the majestic imperial times and now stand as a testament to Japan’s grandeur , with more than 2 000 temples and shrines, numerous beautiful gardens and another form of heritage.

The most iconic building here is the Kinkakuji that is perched on the bank of a serene pond that reflects it in the golden sunlight. Kinkakuji used to be a shogun’s retirement villa but now used as a Zen Buddhist temple. While the famous Shinto symbol here is the Fushimi Inari-Taisha , where you would pass thousands of torii from the foot of the hill to the shrine.

Golden Temple Kinkakuji, Kyoto, Japan. Photo by Raphaël Thiémard

Just an hour train away from Kyoto, Osaka is almost like a blend of both Tokyo and Kyoto . The famous Osaka Castle is here which is a product of Japan’s rich history again. Just about 40 minutes away is another famous tourist attractions – Himeji Castle , another Japan UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Another nearby location to visit is Kobe with the remnants of the devastating 1995 earthquake but the true reason most travellers come here is for the famous Kobe beef.

Himeji Castle, Osaka, Japan. Photo by Wally Gobetz

As the highest mountain in Japan at 3,776 m, Mount Fuji is a volcanic mountain that is famous for its natural symmetrical cone which had become a symbol of Japan . It is located on Honshu Island, southwest of Tokyo.

This picturesque mountain is well-loved by artists, poets and photographers. Thus, it had been listed as part of UNESCO World Heritage’s Cultural site for inspiring many artists for centuries . It is one of Japan’s Three Holy Mountains together with Mount Tate and Mount Haku.

Scaling the peak of this long-dormant volcano is tough yet rewarding. It is estimated that 200,000 people climb Mount Fuji every year with 30% of it are foreigners.

Mount Fuji, Japan. Photo by Manish Prabhune

Another ancient former capital of Japan in the Kansai region, Nara boasts many remnants of the past glamour as well, with eight temples, shrines, and ruins around the city. Sometimes it is overshadowed by its famous neighbour Kyoto, therefore, leaving this places less touristic but still provides many secrets and wonders to be admired.

Famous tourist attractions are the Todai-ji Temples, Kofuku-ji pagoda in the centre of Nara, Kasuga Shrine, Heikokyu Palace, Nara Park for its mercenary deer, Isui-en garden, and many others.

Sakura trees over a bridge, Nara, Japan. Photo by Marco Carrubba

Naoshima is an island town in the Kagawa district, located in the Seto Inland Sea. Many travellers come here to experience the beauty and tranquillity of an island. Unlike the usual beach that comes to mind, this island actually excels in contemporary art museums , public sculptures, and installations.

One famous art museum is the Chichu Art Museum that houses installations from famous artists such as James Turrell and Claude Monet. This museum, designed by Tadao Ando, is located at the highest point of the island over a dramatic panoramic view. Another famous art museum is the Benesse Museum .

Besides that, of course, the island allows many island activities like lying in the sun on the beach, swimming in the sea and also trekking and biking around the island.

Art Museum perch at the sea and beach, Naoshima, Japan. Photo by merec0

Hokkaido, located in the north of Japan, is Japan’s answer to the untamed wilderness with its great national parks . Travellers say that the place resembles the landscape of northern Europe with vast rice paddy fields, green forests surrounding clear blue lakes with snow-capped mountains in the background in the winter and rolling rainbow coloured fields of flower and tall rushing waterfalls in summer.

Hokkaido is the place to go for nature lovers and for those who seek adventures like trekking and hiking and exploring the wilderness. There are also many hot springs resorts dotted across the place for you to soak your weary muscles after a long hike.

At the fields and sea, Hokkaido, Japan. Photo by Yasuhiro Chatani

Miyajima floating Torii , located in Hiroshima, is one of Japan’s most iconic man-made landmark as an epitome of shrines in Japan which is a symbol of their spiritual side.

The torii, a shrine gate, in Miyajima standing out in the water for seven centuries as if floating in the middle of nowhere (but at low tide, you will see it standing on mud), had fascinated many travellers. This torii dates back to the 6th century and had been a holy Shinto site and also as one of Japan’s UNESCO World Heritage Site.

At the same time, visit Hiroshima’s bomb dome to pay respect to the victim’s at Peace memorial Park that was reborn from the ashes of World War 2.

Miyajima floating torii, Hiroshima, Japan. Photo by lluis

Just an hour train ride from Tokyo, this quiet little town, Kamakura , is another popular tourist destination. It is famous for its sight of the Great Buddha (Daibutsu) at Kotoku-in , the second-largest bronze Buddha in Japan.

There are also many temples and Shinto shrine around this town to be visited one by one and therefore, a whole day trip would be required. In comparison to the cities mentioned above, Kamakura is quiet and peaceful and would be a welcome respite after a few days of hustling in the cities.

Daibutsu, the Great Buddha at Kamakura

Yakushima is one of the Osumi Islands in Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan and has a population of around 13,000 people. Most travellers come here to wander the forests of thousand-year-old cedar trees in Kirishima-Yaku National Park, another UNESCO World Heritage Site .

This is probably the only place that made it to this list which is not that well-known out of Japan. But in Japan, it is one of their top tourist destinations. This place is a uniquely different site from the rest of the must-visit places and would be worth going to commune with the ancient trees and humble yourself with the immensity of age.

Ancient cedar trees, Yakushima, Japan. Photo by Kabacchi

There you have it, the top 10 must-visit places in Japan , but by no means a complete list of the tourist attractions or wonders of Japan. A thorough visit to Japan would take an extensive amount of time but well worth it if your budget allows as we know it can be quite costly to travel here.

If these top 10 destinations have not convinced you to come to Japan, check out our Why Visit Japan to have more inspirations!

Related articles: Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Japan Top 10 Things to Do in Osaka Top 10 Must See and Things to Do in Nara Top 10 Must See and Things to Do in Kamakura

Author: Rachel

Japan, as one of her very first trip far away from home, Rachel found it to be eye-opening and awe-inspiring. She got so fascinated by the distinction of Japan, especially the people and how such country so unique from the rest can exist in this chaotic world, that she went back twice to further her endless discovery of it. With that said, there is still much to explore in Japan! Google+ View all posts by Rachel

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Most Beautiful Places in Japan: Top Spots to Visit

Japan, a land of enchanting contrasts, where neon-lit skyscrapers stand beside ancient temples, and bustling cities give way to serene countryside. This guide will take you on a journey to discover some of the most beautiful places in Japan, from its natural wonders to its cultural treasures. Whether you're planning your first visit or returning for another adventure, these breathtaking spots will leave you in awe. Let's embark on this picturesque adventure!

Table of Contents

Natural wonders of japan, historical and cultural sites, scenic cities and towns, coastal and island paradises, tips for visiting japan's most beautiful places.

Japan's natural beauty is unparalleled, offering a diverse range of landscapes that captivate the soul. Here are some must-see natural wonders that should be on every traveler's list.

Mount Fuji, Japan’s iconic peak, is a must-visit for any traveler. Standing majestically at 3,776 meters, it offers breathtaking views and a spiritual experience. The best time to visit is during the climbing season from July to early September when the weather is favorable. For those not keen on climbing, the surrounding Five Lakes region offers spectacular views and relaxing hot springs.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Walking through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in Kyoto feels like stepping into another world. The towering bamboo stalks create a serene and mystical atmosphere. Early mornings or late afternoons are the best times to visit to avoid the crowds. Nearby, you can explore the Tenryu-ji Temple and the scenic Togetsukyo Bridge.

Takachiho Gorge

Takachiho Gorge in Miyazaki Prefecture is renowned for its dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and verdant greenery. Renting a boat to paddle through the gorge provides an unforgettable experience, offering unique perspectives of the towering rock formations and the serene beauty of the Minainotaki waterfall.

Hitachi Seaside Park

Hitachi Seaside Park is a floral paradise that changes with the seasons. Located in Ibaraki Prefecture, the park is famous for its vast fields of blue nemophila flowers in spring and vibrant red kochia in autumn. Each season brings a new burst of color, making it a delightful destination year-round.

Japan's rich history and cultural heritage are evident in its many temples, shrines, and historical landmarks. Here are some of the most beautiful and significant sites to visit.

Kyoto's Temples and Shrines

Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan, is home to countless temples and shrines, each with its unique charm. Fushimi Inari Taisha, with its thousands of red torii gates, is an iconic sight. Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion) dazzles visitors with its shimmering facade, while Kiyomizu-dera offers panoramic views of the city from its wooden terrace.

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park stands as a poignant reminder of the atomic bombing in 1945. The park includes the Atomic Bomb Dome, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Peace Memorial Museum, which provides a sobering account of the events. It’s a place of reflection and a symbol of hope and peace.

Nara Park, home to freely roaming deer and ancient temples, is a magical place. The deer, considered sacred, are friendly and can be fed with special crackers. Within the park, Todai-ji Temple houses the Great Buddha, a colossal bronze statue, while Kasuga Taisha Shrine is known for its lantern-lined paths.

Thanks for visiting our blog, are you planing to travel to Japan? Check out our eSIM Japan .

From the bustling energy of Tokyo to the historical charm of Kanazawa, Japan's cities and towns offer a blend of modernity and tradition. Here are some that stand out for their beauty and unique character.

Tokyo's Skytree and Gardens

Tokyo, Japan’s vibrant capital, is a city of contrasts. The Tokyo Skytree offers breathtaking views of the sprawling metropolis. For a touch of tranquility, visit the city’s traditional gardens such as Rikugien and Shinjuku Gyoen, which provide a peaceful escape from the urban hustle.

Kanazawa is a city where history comes alive. The well-preserved samurai and geisha districts offer a glimpse into the past. Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s most beautiful landscape gardens, is a must-visit. Don’t miss the local crafts, especially the exquisite gold leaf products for which Kanazawa is famous.

Nikko, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is known for its stunning shrines and natural beauty. Toshogu Shrine, with its ornate architecture and colorful carvings, is a highlight. The surrounding area offers beautiful waterfalls, lakes, and hiking trails, making it a perfect blend of cultural and natural attractions.

Japan’s coastline and islands are home to some of the country’s most breathtaking scenery. Here are a few paradises that you should not miss.

Okinawa Islands

The Okinawa Islands boast pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a rich cultural heritage. Snorkeling and diving in the vibrant coral reefs are popular activities. The islands’ unique Ryukyu culture, distinct from mainland Japan, adds an intriguing dimension to your visit.

Miyajima Island

Miyajima Island, famous for its “floating” torii gate, offers a serene and spiritual experience. The island’s Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is an architectural marvel. Visiting during high tide gives the illusion of the gate floating on water, creating a picturesque and iconic view.

Hokkaido's Furano and Biei

Furano and Biei in Hokkaido are renowned for their stunning landscapes. Furano’s lavender fields in summer are a sight to behold, while Biei’s rolling hills and patchwork fields provide picturesque scenery year-round. The areas are perfect for driving tours, offering endless photo opportunities.

Maximize your travel experience in Japan with these practical tips.

Best Times to Visit

Japan’s beauty changes with the seasons. Spring (March to May) offers cherry blossoms, while autumn (September to November) features vibrant foliage. Summer is great for highland escapes, and winter (December to February) offers snow festivals and hot springs. Plan your visit based on what you want to see and experience.

Transportation Tips

Japan’s public transport system is efficient and reliable. Consider getting a Japan Rail Pass for convenient travel between cities. For regional exploration, renting a car can provide more flexibility. Always check local transport options and schedules to optimize your travel plans.

Cultural Etiquette

Respectful behavior is highly valued in Japan. Always remove your shoes when entering homes and certain temples. Learn a few basic Japanese phrases like “thank you” (arigatou gozaimasu) and “excuse me” (sumimasen) to show politeness. Being mindful of local customs will enhance your travel experience.

Before you take off make sure to check with local government of the travel status.

What is the best time to visit Mount Fuji?

The best time to visit Mount Fuji is from July to early September when the climbing season is open.

Are there any guided tours available in Arashiyama Bamboo Grove?

Yes, guided tours are available and can provide deeper insights into the area's history and significance.

What are the must-see temples in Kyoto?

Must-see temples in Kyoto include Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), and Kiyomizu-dera.

How can I get to Miyajima Island?

Miyajima Island is accessible by ferry from Hiroshima. The ferry ride takes about 10 minutes.

What should I pack for a trip to Hokkaido's Furano and Biei?

Pack seasonally appropriate clothing, as well as comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the scenic areas.

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16 Charming Small Towns That Are A Must-Visit In Japan

• The Japanese countryside offers unique landscapes, mountains, lakes, and temples, making it an excellent destination for an unforgettable vacation.
• The countryside towns provide a peaceful and quiet atmosphere, away from the hustle and bustle of big cities, and offer a chance to connect with nature.
• The article features recommendations for small towns in Japan worth visiting, including Tsurui, Biei, Kitashiobara, Totsukawa, Shirakawa-go, Nara, Shodoshima, Ouchi-juku, Hida Takayama, Ine, Wazuka, Ainokura, Karuizawa, Tsumago, Taketomi, and Toyone-mura. The accommodations in these towns offer excellent amenities but should be verified before making a reservation.

Among people's top ten travel destinations, the Japanese countryside is an excellent destination for an unforgettable vacation. The country of contrasts boasts unique landscapes, mountains, beautiful lakes, lush forests, temples, farmlands, rich history, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites . People can choose between numerous activities, from high-tech cities to small peaceful villages in the countryside.

While visiting the countryside towns, travelers will have the opportunity to enjoy experiences worth skipping all the vibrancy and liveliness of the big cities in Japan. These big city experiences include all the iconic vintage shops in Tokyo , the vibrant nightlife, Japan's 7-11 stores , and all the fun and exciting things to do in Osaka , Japan's street food capital. Travelers will also meet people who have the wisdom to live so close to nature in quiet towns, full of greenery and free from the hustle and bustle of the city. These 16 are the best small towns in Japan worth visiting for multiple memorable experiences.

UPDATE: 2023/11/07 11:31 EST BY MARIAM ADAMA

16 Fascinating Small Towns In Japan That Are Worth Visiting

This updated article features additional small towns in Japan that are great for adventurous travelers to explore the countryside and its unique attractions and surprising offerings. With these options, travelers can enjoy colorful festivals and the opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of big city life to the breathtaking natural scenery for a relaxing nature retreat in some of the best small towns in Japan.

This article also includes some great accommodation options in each of the small towns in Japan. They were listed based on research and because of excellent amenities. It is, however, essential to verify details before making a reservation.

Related: 10 Of Japan's Most Beautiful Villages Worth Visiting

Tsurui, located on the outskirts of Kushiro Shitsugen National Park, is a popular destination for those who enjoy the outdoors and wildlife photography because it is the home of the red-crowned crane, one of the rarest species of crane in the entire world. It is one of the least noisy areas in the nation and a location where one can get lost in the sounds of nature. Tsurui is also among the best small towns in Japan to visit in the spring when a variety of blossoming cherry trees burst into color, and in the fall, when it glows with a variety of orange and red hues.

• Accommodation: La Vista Akangawa
• Address: Okurushube Akancho 3-1, Tsurui 085-0468
• Amenities: Spa and wellness center, Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Free WiFi

Biei, surrounded by majestic hills covered in vibrant flowers and imposing trees, transports visitors to a fairytale world, making it one of the best small towns to visit in Japan for a family vacation or a romantic getaway. Visitors are taken aback when they see the views from the Hokusei Hill Observatory or visit Patchwork Road and Panorama Road. Kanno Farm and Shirogane Blue Pond are other beauties that are near the town but add memorable delights to a Biei trip.

• Accommodation: Pension Natsumi no Sato
• Address: Genya 4-Sen, Biei 071-0239
• Amenities: Restaurant, Free WiFi, Outdoor Onsen

Related: Explore One Of The Most Historic Cities In Japan: Top 10 Things To Do In Nara

Kitashiobara

Kitashiobara is a well-known resort town in Fukushima Prefecture, especially with skiers craving to hit the slopes during winter. It also draws hikers and nature lovers for its natural beauty, which is unlike any other. The Bandai-Asahi National Park, Lake Inawashiro, Lake Onogawa, Lake Akimoto, Lake Hibara, and Goshikinuma Ponds are some of the iconic Japanese locations that astound everyone. This town is also famous among art enthusiasts for housing the Morohashi Museum of Modern Art, which has the third-largest collection of Dali's works in the world.

• Accommodation: Pension Buddy
• Address: 1095-59, Soharayama, Kitashiobara
• Amenities: Restaurant, Free WiFi, Tennis

Totsukawa, one of the remotest small towns in Japan's Nara Prefecture, is blessed with incredible natural scenery and a rustic ambiance. It is an ideal location for those looking for a nature retreat away from the city's crowd and bustle. With a range of exciting activities and attractions like the historic Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tamaki Shrine, Tanize Suspension Bridge, Moriyama Observation Deck, Sasanotaki, one of Japan's most scenic waterfalls, hot springs, and Tosenji Onsen, this town can entice visitors to stay for days.

• Accommodation: Kosenkaku Yoshinoya
• Address: Hiratani 432, Totsukawa, 637-1554
• Amenities: Free WiFi, Hot Tub, Meeting/Banquet facilities

Related: Shop Till You Drop: The Most Iconic Vintage Shops In Tokyo

Shirakawa-go

Shirakawa-go is a traditional Japanese town and a UNESCO heritage site located in the heart of the Japan Alps and surrounded by beautiful mountains. It is one of the most picturesque villages in Japan, famous for its traditional Japanese gassho-zukuri farmhouses, resembling two hands joined in prayer. The best way to experience the village's beauty is to spend the night at one of the farmhouses, which have opened as guesthouses for visitors. This village is beautiful at all times, and people can catch sight of green fields in summer, whole bloom cherry blossoms in spring, orange leaves in autumn, and snow in winter.

• Accommodation: Wat Hotel& Spa Hida Takayama
• Address: 3 39 1 Hanasato Cho, Takayama 506-0026 Gifu Prefecture
• Amenities: Free WiFi, Hot Tub, Spa

Located 40 minutes from Kyoto and Osaka by rail, Nara features shrines, temples, museums, Japanese culture, and history. Home to the oldest temples in Japan, Nara is also famous for its beautiful scenic park, featuring hundreds of deer, making it a paradise for animal lovers . People visit Nara during the cherry blossom season to see beautiful pint petals highlight many of the trees and in November when the autumn color emerges.

• Accommodation: Hotel Nikko Nara
• Address: 8-1 Sanjo Hommachi, Nara 630-8122 Nara Prefecture
• Amenities: Free WiFi, Hot Tub, Conference Facilities

Related: Wandering Through Japan: A Serene Journey Through 10 Iconic Landscapes & Vibrant Cities

Travelers who want to experience island life in Japan and enjoy great opportunities for physical activities should head to Shodoshima, one of the islands in Kagawa. The island is famous for its noodles, stunning landscapes, modern art, and ocean views. For those seeking a thrilling experience, kayaking trips to the uninhabited islands surrounding Shodoshima offer a perfect opportunity to explore the waters . The tours are suitable for all skill levels and ages, with expert guidance from the island's kayaking instructors. Even inexperienced kayakers can get started with a few instructions and practice paddling before kayaking to Kojima Island's small beach.

• Accommodation: Bay Resort Hotel Shodoshima
• Address: 16-3, Furue Otu, Shodoshima 761-4422
• Amenities: Restaurant, Free Wi-Fi, Coffee shop, Free toiletries

Ouchi-juku is a traditional Japanese village that served as a small post station in the Edo period and boasted shops, traditional hotels, and restaurants for travelers. Located between the Nikko and Aizu regions in Fukushima, it is now famous for its numerous untouched buildings lining its main streets. People will look out over the charming village from the observation spot up on a hill, a popular tourist attraction.

• Accommodation: Richmond Hotel Fukushimaekimae
• Address: 1-15 Mikawaminamimachi, Fukushima 960-8053 Fukushima Prefecture
• Amenities: Hot Tub, Restaurant, Free WiFi

Related: 14 Souvenirs You NEED To Bring Back From Japan

Hida, Takayama

Located in the mountainous Hida region in the northern part of Gifu prefecture , Takayama is a beautiful mountain town in the north Japan Alps, famous for its well-preserved old district, woodworking, and magical snow festivals . Famous for its high-quality timber and the skill of its carpenters, the old town district is a must-see, as it is one of the best-preserved districts in the country. People visit it for its three best parade float festivals in Japan, held in April and October.

• Accommodation: Honjin Hiranoya Kachoan
• Address: 1-34 Hommachi, Takayama 506-0011 Gifu Prefecture
• Amenities: Free Parking, Free WiFi, Sauna

Ine - Kyoto

Located in the north of Kyoto prefecture, on a wild hillside surrounded by mountains and forests, Ine is a beautiful village in Japan , built by fishermen and featuring clear emerald water with marine life. Famous for its beautiful Funaya houses facing the sea, it features stunning landscapes and lush greenery. The beautiful town of Ine is a popular destination among the Japanese and a peaceful and happiest place in Japan.

• Accommodation: Hotel Okura Kyoto
• Address: Kawaramachi Oike, Nakagyo-Ku, Kyoto 604-0924 Kyoto Prefecture
• Amenities: Free WiFi, Hot Tub, Fitness Center

Located southeast of Kyoto in a quiet valley, Wazuka is a small tea farming village set in a peaceful valley, surrounded by mountains and covered in tea fields. This enchanting place with natural beauty, history, and rural charm features a pristine river running through the valley, providing natural drainage and irrigation and a mountain soil rich in a nutrient for tea plantation. People take rental bikes to explore Wazuka peacefully.

• Accommodation: Kyoto Wazukaso
• Address: 25-5 Shirasu Shishigaguchi, Wazuka-cho, Soraku-gun 619-1222 Kyoto Prefecture
• Amenities: Free Parking, Free WiFi, Restaurant

Lying in the western Toyama Prefecture of Japan, in the Japanese Alps, Ainokura is a quaint little village that preserved its heritage and features 20 Gassho-style homes over 200 years old. Ainokura is famous for its Gassho-Zukuri farmhouses and is listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It is the calmest and most relaxed destination on earth. People visit it in summer and see the village covered in lush and green, and in winter, with snow.

• Accommodation: Dormy Inn Toyama
• Address: 4-8 Otemachi, Toyama 930-0084 Toyama Prefecture
• Amenities: Free WiFi, Hot Tub, Sauna

Nestled in the mountains, the quiet town of Karuizawa offers a pleasing atmosphere with scenic nature spots, restaurants, and some of the most-visited tourist attractions . Lovely Karuizawa is blessed with stunning nature, waterfalls, and greenery. People make sure to visit the Kumobaike Pond, an open pond surrounded by lush green trees, and see the Shiraito Falls, the most beautiful waterfalls in Japan, located in the forest north of the town.

• Accommodation: The Prince Karuizawa
• Address: Karuizawa, Karuizawa-machi, Kitasaku-gun 038-0193 Nagano Prefecture
• Amenities: Free WiFi, Sauna, and Bicycles Available

Related: 10 Reasons Why You Should Visit Japan During Spring

In Kiso Valley , Tsumago is a well-preserved town in the Japanese Alps. It was built to accommodate commerce during the Edo period and connected the new capital city of Edo with the old capital, Kyoto. The village is a traditional group preservation area, providing visitors with an opportunity to be a time traveler and seek beauty and tranquility. History lovers will enjoy visiting Tsumago, a hiker's favorite destination in Japan.

• Accommodation: Manza Kogen Hotel
• Address: 2401 Hoshimata inside Manza Prince Hotel, Tsumagoi-mura, Agatsuma-gun 377-1595 Gunma Prefecture
• Amenities: Free Parking, Table Tennis, Children's Activities

Taketomi is a small island near the coast of Ishigaki Island and the site of a well-preserved area, the Ryukyu Village. It is famous for its traditional Okinawan architecture houses featuring red tile roofs, culture, and special star-shaped sand. An enjoyable and exciting way to learn about the history of this place is on Taketomi's very popular water buffalo cart rides.

• Accommodation: Hotel Peace Island Taketomijima
• Address: 112-1 Taketomi, Taketomi-jima, Taketomi-cho, Yaeyama-gun 907-1101 Okinawa Prefecture
• Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, Hot Tub, Restaurant

Toyone-mura

Nature lovers, especially those visiting Japan in the winter, will find this snow village in Japan very fitting. Located at the foot of the Southern Alps, Toyone-mura is a fine place for travelers to enjoy exciting activities. These include festivals, attractions, and experiences that are a must-see for adventure seekers. In the colder months, travelers who visit Toyone-mura must stop by the Chausuyama Plateau.

The Chausuyama Plateau is the only ski area in Aichi, and it's a great place for travelers to enjoy skiing and other thrilling winter activities, such as sledding, snowboarding, and mountain biking. For those visiting the village between May and June, the Shibazakura Festival (Moss Pink Festival) is a must-see event . Tourists can witness the hillside come to life with the most beautiful and colorful flowers covering 22,000 square meters of the hillside. In addition to taking in the breathtaking views, visitors can snap beautiful pictures of the flowers or from the top while enjoying the sightseeing ski lift.

• Accommodation: Kyukamura Chausuyama-Kogen
• Address: 70-163, Goshodaira, Sakauba, Toyone-Mura, Kitashitara-Gun, Aichi, Toyone 449-0405
• Amenities: Restaurant, Parking, Refrigerator

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Where to Eat, Stay, Play in Osaka, the In-Your-Face Cousin of Tokyo

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If you’ve experienced enough of cosmopolitan Tokyo and need a change of pace from serene Kyoto , then you’ll need a list of the best things to do in Osaka , the spirited heart of the western Kansai region. Osaka is known as “the kitchen of Japan,” best known for signature Japanese delicacies like takoyaki, ball-shaped snacks often made with octopus meat; and okonomiyaki, savory pancakes made on teppan (Japanese metal grill plates). The city’s massive food scene features all types of dining spots, ranging from street vendors to Michelin-starred restaurants. Osaka is also an entertainment capital where you can meet Mario and Luigi at Super Nintendo World, part of Universal Studios Japan, or catch a baseball game at the Osaka Dome with over 36,000 fans from all over the world.

Osaka is lively and in-your-face, but new developments in the city are giving it a level of relaxed refinement, too: The city unveiled some big hotel openings recently, including the Four Seasons Hotel Osaka and The Osaka Station Hotel, Autograph Collection , with more on the way from luxury names like Waldorf Astoria and Patina . The city also recently cut the ribbons on the Grand Green Osaka, a new urban green space that connects Osaka Station to recreation areas, event and exhibition venues, and verdant lawns with trees that offer color beyond cherry blossom season.

Visiting Osaka is a great idea any time of year , but mark your calendars for 2025, when the city will host the World Expo from April to October. This time around, the theme is Designing a Future Society for Our Lives, meaning the development of sustainable cities. For the event, the city is building an island called Yumeshima, where a new metro station is being built, improving accessibility to the six-month-long fair for both locals and visitors. With Japan’s famously efficient public transport system, it’ll be easy to see, do, and eat as much as you can in Osaka and, itinerary permitting, beyond.

To get more of the best things to do in Osaka—the absolute must-dos, plus some insider tips only locals would know—I spoke to an array of experts on Japanese travel, including: Jessica Klauzenberg, the Japan travel specialist at Timbuktu Travel ; Makoto Kawai of Four Seasons Hotel Osaka , who was born and raised in the city; and Sara Aiko Coe , a Condé Nast Traveler Top Travel Specialist and founder of Curated Kyoto , based in nearby Kyoto. Here’s how to visit Osaka, and all the best things to do once you’re there.

Visiting Osaka is a great idea at any time of year, but in 2025 it will host the World Expo from April to October, just as the city sees a wave of polished hotel openings.

Getting there and around

Traveling to Osaka is easily done by plane: Kansai International Airport has nonstop flights coming in from San Francisco and Los Angeles in the United States; Vancouver and Toronto in Canada. A train from the airport to Osaka Station takes about 45 minutes. Naturally, Tokyo has more direct connections to hubs all over the world, so you can fly there and easily take the high-speed train to Osaka; it takes about two hours and thirty minutes and costs about $90.

Thanks to its connectivity to the rest of the Kansai region, Osaka can serve as a great base from which you can explore nearby destinations like Nara , famous for its temples; Kobe, named one of our Best Places to Go in 2024 for its ascendant design scene; and of course Kyoto. The JR Kansai Area Pass gives you unlimited use of local trains and buses. At minimum, a one-day pass costs about $20; the longest four-day pass costs $50.

If you plan to stay within the city, the Osaka Metro with its subways and buses will serve you well. Get a one-day unlimited pass for commute-heavy sightseeing days (about $5.70); for all other days where you plan to walk around a lot, you’re better off paying as you go. Use the ICOCA card , which you can credit with money and tap through the turnstiles for access to the subway. (You can also add a virtual ICOCA card to your phone and use that, but the physical card makes for a cute souvenir.)

When you visit Osaka Castle, try to go as close to closing time as possible to see the main tower lit up for the night.

Things to do in Osaka

The cultural symbol of Osaka is undoubtedly Osaka Castle , with its moats, defensive walls, and signature green-roofed main keep. Much of the site was reconstructed in the 1990s, after the city was bombed during World War II, and exhibitions and events on the grounds feature dives into Japanese history, art, and culture. Klauzenberg of Timbuktu Travel suggests planning your visit toward the end of the day, when the lights are all turned on: “Seeing the illumination of the castle makes it even more special.”

Given its history as a major Japanese port, Osaka has many canals that wind their way through the city, most of which are traversable by water bus. “It’s a tranquil mode of transportation that allows you to glide through the city, bypassing the usual traffic concerns,” says Kawai of the Four Seasons. Try the Tombori River Cruise at night to see Osaka’s modern period: the boat will take you down the Dotonbori Canal, lined with buildings glowing with neon lights and the famous Glico Running Man sign . On the opposite end of the spectrum, the Osaka Castle–Nakanoshima route on the Aqua-Liner Water Bus with a view of the castle’s main keep, gives a magnificent sense of place and history, especially when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom along the river.

For a dose of fine art, Aiko Coe of Curated Tokyo recommends the Fujita Museum , which has a collection of about 5,000 antiquities amassed by the eponymous Denzaburo Fujita, a prosperous merchant of the Meiji era, and his descendants. It’s one of the foremost privately owned museums in Japan, boasting 9 officially-designated National Treasures and 53 Important Cultural Properties. Given the museum’s location in the eastern suburbs, Aiko Coe says, “It’s still a hidden gem—and although I want to keep it that way, I also don’t want people to miss out.”

If shopping for artistic goods is more your speed, Aiko Coe recommends Orange Street for the present-day creative energy of Osaka. Located in the Minami district, this street was once a hub for furniture makers and is now a trendy tree-lined area filled with cafés, vintage shops, and boutiques that sell works by local designers, many of which have unique pieces that blend traditional Japanese craftsmanship with modern style. It’s the perfect destination for travelers who have an eye for design and fashion.

And of course, there’s nothing quite like watching a baseball game in Japan. It’s the country’s national sport and the Osaka Dome promises an electrifying atmosphere, according to Kawai, especially when the home team, the Orix Buffaloes, takes the field during Japan’s baseball season , from late March to October. If your trip doesn’t coincide with the season, then you can get your thrills at Universal Studios Japan , particularly at Osaka’s Super Nintendo World . If your hotel has one, a concierge can help you score seats to a game or tickets to the theme park for the best access.

Once you need a breather from all the activities and excitement, find a moment to chill out at the Grand Green Osaka , a new urban development and commercial strip centered around Umekita Park, opening this weekend. It’s directly connected to Osaka Station, and so finding a moment to rest and appreciate the verdant environment will be easy—even in the heart of buzzing Osaka.

Wherever you go in Osaka, try takoyaki—skewers of ball-shaped snacks typically filled with minced octopus—in every ward to see how vendors cook up the city's signature snack in their own styles.

Where to eat in Osaka

If you’re in Osaka, chances are you’re here to eat. Visit the new food-haven KITTE Osaka , which opened in July 2024 next to Osaka Station. It features over 50 new dining spots, embodying the essence of “Japan’s kitchen.” Keep an eye out specifically for two specialties of Osaka: okonomiyaki, which are savory pancakes often made with cabbage, meat, and seafood; and takoyaki, skewers of ball-shaped snacks typically filled with minced octopus. Takoyaki is prevalent throughout the city, as is okonomiyaki, but for a restaurant focused on the latter, Ajinoya in Namba is one of the best. They even sell ready-to-take-home frozen okonomiyaki as a souvenir. (You’d have to cook it wherever you’re staying, however, lest airport officers confiscate the stuff at customs.)

But perhaps the best way to try Osakan food culture is by taking to the streets. Hozenji Yokocho , a tucked-away alley just a couple of blocks from Ebisubashi Bridge, is full of local watering holes and hole-in-the-wall izakayas—and everywhere you turn here, there’s sure to be takoyaki. Klauzenberg says, “Yokocho is a great area where you can get a taste of Osaka’s casual cuisine and the culture of kuidaore , literally, ‘eating oneself to bankruptcy.’” And to rub elbows with the locals, Kawai suggests that visitors check out the Osaka Ekimae Buildings , connected to Osaka Station. It’s a complex of four interconnected spaces, where “the basements are packed with little bars and eateries that offer a wide range of flavors and experiences. In the evening, it turns into a bustling place with after-work crowds.”

That lively and vibrant energy is also represented at the eponymous counter-style restaurant of Noguchi Taro , one of Aiko Coe’s favorite food destinations in Osaka. This Michelin-starred spot is hidden on the third floor of an unassuming building near—yet again—Osaka Station. “When you get there, you might wonder, ‘Am I in the right place?’” says Aiko Coe. “But once you open the door, you’re warmly welcomed into a cozy, dimly-lit ten-seat space by energetic chefs, including Noguchi-san himself.” The prix fixe menu is composed of 13 to 15 dishes, featuring seasonal and unique creations by the self-taught Noguchi, whose chicken wings are some of the best in Osaka.

The just-debuted Four Seasons Hotel Osaka features a floor called Gensui, a hotel-within-a-hotel concept with 21 rooms modeled after a Japanese ryokan.

Where to stay in Osaka

Since some of the best things to do in Osaka are just a stone’s throw away from Osaka Station, where better to stay than the new Osaka Station Hotel, Autograph Collection ? It occupies the 30th to 38th floors of a building that’s right on top of the station, making it a serene retreat from the hustle of the city below. The rooms are all elegantly designed with clean lines and neutral tones that allow your eyes—and the rest of you—to rest; plus, there are over 400 of them, so chances are there will always be room at the inn, so to speak.

For peak-luxury in the city, the Four Seasons Hotel Osaka is the way to go. Though it doesn’t straddle the train station, this new property is just a few blocks away. In addition to the five-star service and suites you’d expect from the global brand, its new entry into the Osakan market also features a special floor called Gensui, a sort of hotel-within-a-hotel concept with 21 rooms modeled after ryokans (traditional Japanese inns commonly found near hot springs), with tatami mat flooring, sliding doors, and Japanese design principles—all with Four Seasons touches like exclusive check-in desks and concierge services.

Other Traveler-approved options include the St. Regis Osaka (yes, near the station) and the W Osaka , a trendy hotel as ever, given its location in Namba. Also in 2025, keep an eye out for Waldorf Astoria Osaka, connected to the Grand Green Osaka development; and Patina Osaka, right across from Osaka Castle.

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