Fascinating traditions and rapid technology collaborate perfectly to make Japan a top-rated destination. From modern, trendy cities to serene natural landscapes, Japan has everything for every traveler. Whether you are a culture geek or outdoor enthusiast, visiting Japan will lead you to a marvelous experience! For that reason, Japan is considered one of the best places to visit in Asia.
So, are looking for awesome places to visit in Japan? We have a list of the 15 best places to visit in Japan and some ideas of what you can do in each destination. Check it out for your next Japan trip!
14 Best Places to Visit in Japan
- Kyoto
- Osaka
- Tokyo
- Hiroshima
- Fukuoka
- Nara
- Hokkaido
- Okinawa
- Naoshima
- Takayama
- Mount Fuji
- Kamikochi, Nagano
- Kiso Valley, Nagano
- Himeji Castle
Kyoto
With the flawless collaboration between the old and the new, Kyoto is undeniably enchanting. The city is dotted with magnificent pagodas, elegant palaces, and tranquil neighborhoods. Moreover, it is bursting with enticing Japanese traditions, such as geisha performances and traditional tea ceremonies. Visiting Kyoto gives you a glimpse of how fascinating Japanese culture is.
Find yourself getting lost in Kyoto’s wonderful atmosphere. You can visit shrines and temples, such as the famous, red-tinted Fushimi Inari Shrine. Also, stroll around the traditional villages and marvel at the neatly lined wooden houses. Furthermore, Kyoto is one of the best places to visit in Japan for cherry blossoms. As spring comes, the city turns into a sea of soft pink as cherry blossoms bloom in the streets and parks. Guaranteed – it is extraordinary!
Things to Do in Kyoto: See the cherry blossoms festival in spring, stroll through the gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine, visit temples, experience the traditional tea ceremony, wander around traditional villages, marvel at the gardens of Jishō-ji, and walk around Arashiyama bamboo forest
Osaka
Nothing is better than the jubilant vibes of Osaka! The trendy metropolitan screams fun, as it is home to Japan’s popular tourist attractions. Get ready to hop on crazy rides in Universal Studio Japan or go for insane karaoke parties in the Dotonburi neighborhood. Also, a friendly reminder – you will get less sleep as you are traveling to Osaka. There are so many things to do in Osaka and you might want to check them all out, so the no-sleep hours will be worth it!
One of the main deals about Osaka is the food. Thus, it is the best place to visit in Japan for foodies, as Osaka is popping with flavors. Legend says Osaka is the birthplace of okonomiyaki, a popular savory pancake-like treat. Moreover, you can also sample other popular dishes, such as yakiniku (grilled meat), takoyaki (dough balls filled with octopus), and kushikatsu (battered meat skewers). Therefore, a culinary trip to Osaka is always a great idea.
Things to Do in Osaka: Have a blast in Universal Studios Japan, stroll around the feisty Dotonburi neighborhood, see the Osaka Castle, visit the famous Osaka Aquarium, and
Tokyo
Vibrant and sophisticated, Tokyo is surely one of a kind! With the perfect blend of top-notch technology and magnificent tradition, Tokyo is one of the best places to visit in Japan. Furthermore, it is considered one of the best and most advanced cities in Asia. Tokyo is the getaway of Japan, as travelers from all over the world sprawl into the city to get the best glimpse of the country.
Tokyo will make you forget what ‘boredom’ is. The city lights up with bustling streets, trendy districts, feisty party centers, and quirky neighborhoods. You can find lots of unique things, like hotels run by robots and maid cafes. Besides that, Tokyo offers a deeper dive into Japanese culture. You can stroll around Asakusa, an old district that looks nothing like the futuristic Tokyo, but is undeniably charming. Additionally, get a taste of Japanese culture by watching a sumo wrestling match or munching on dishes in an izakaya.
Things to Do in Tokyo: Blend with the crowds in Shibuya, see temples and shrines, discover pop culture in Akihabara, relax in gardens and city parks, enjoy drinks and parties in Golden Gai, stroll around Harajuku, see Tokyo Sky Tree, go for a culinary trip, and go for a picnic under the cherry blossoms tree in the spring
Hiroshima
The city of Hiroshima will excite history buffs! However, it is one of the best places to visit in Japan for everyone as it is a heart-wrenching memorial of World War II. Hiroshima is known for the atomic bombing tragedy in August 1945. Due to the horrifying event, the city is dotted with monuments, ruins, and memorial centers. Visiting those sites will be a heart-stirring experience and a wake-up call for keeping the world peaceful.
Besides the remarkable historic sites, Hiroshima will spoil tourists with its laidback atmosphere, beautiful parks, and luscious food. If you are visiting Hiroshima, you would want to relax in its well-manicured gardens. Moreover, make sure to get a peek at the city’s culinary scene. Hiroshima is proud of its okonomiyaki, oysters, and momiji manju (maple leaf-shaped cake with filling). Therefore, you must find out why!
Things to Do in Hiroshima: Visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, explore Miyajima Island, walk off the beaten path to Sandankyo Gorges,
Fukuoka
Festivals and a lot of fun – that is what Fukuoka is all about! The charming city is located in Kyushu, the third largest island in Japan, and 170 miles from Tokyo. Fukuoka is also rich in history, as it serves as a prominent harbor city in the 13th century. For that reason, Fukuoka is dotted with magnificent historical buildings that are worth visiting. Places like Fukuoka Castle and Shofukuji Temple will leave you in awe.
As we mentioned before, Fukuoka is popular for its festival. Thus, it is also one of the best places to visit in Japan for awesome festivals. Moreover, one of the festivals that you should check out is Hakata Gion Yamakasa. The UNESCO-recognized cultural heritage is a big parade that features a large group of men carrying decorative floats (yamakasa). The festival dates back to 800 years ago when it was created to eradicate epidemics. Now, Hakata Gion Yamakasa is a popular event that attracts tourists from all over the world.
Things to Do in Fukuoka: See the ruins of Fukuoka Castle, stroll around Ohori Park, see festivals and traditional events, hunt for street foods in riverside Nakasu, wander around Canal City, and visit Shinto shrines
Nara
Although Nara seems outshined by its neighbor Kyoto, the city keeps an unrivaled beauty. It was the first capital city of Japan, bursting with marvelous culture and brilliant innovation of the Nara period. However, the splendid history has a lasting life in Nara. The city is now a hotspot of Japan’s marvelous history with its historical sites and traditional architecture.
Nara is one of the best places to visit in Japan for everyone who loves history. Besides that, Nara is also renowned for its verdant gardens and ravishing landscapes. Pay a visit to the centuries-old Nara Park, the biggest park in the city. The main thing about Nara Park is the adorable deer that roam freely around the area. The deers are very friendly, so you can pet or feed them!
Things to Do in Nara: Stroll around Nara Park, see Todaiji Temple, snap pictures of the red-tinted Kasuga Taisha Shrine, shop and eat in Naramachi, see Omizutori festival, and marvel at gardens like Isuien and Yoshikien Garden.
Hokkaido
Are you looking for an exquisite nature getaway in Japan? Then, head to Hokkaido! This northern Japanese island boasts a bunch of marvelous natural landscapes. From misty volcanic calderas to gentle verdant hills, Hokkaido can make everyone fall in love at the first sight. Moreover, the island is home to Japan’s remarkable cities, such as the feisty Sapporo and pretty Furano.
Hokkaido offers charming scenery for every season. In the spring, the fertile land of Hokkaido is bursting with colorful flowers, creating unbelievable scenery. In the winter, the island turns into a world-class ski spot, offering top-rated ski resorts and amazing slopes for all levels. Thus, the natural hot springs of Hokkaido are too interesting to skip.
Things to Do in Hokkaido: Explore Sapporo, sample craft beers, dip into hot springs, go skiing in the winter, see flower fields in Furano during spring, see Shirogane Blue Pond, and sample some seafood
Okinawa
If we talk about a tropical paradise in Japan, it might sound unbelievable. However, it is true! Okinawa is an archipelago of 160 idyllic islands. The verdant hills, glimmering azure waters, and pure white sand on the islands of Okinawa will make you feel like you are either in Hawaii or Thailand instead of Japan. Even better, Okinawa has splendid crystal-clear waters. So clear that you can even take a peek at the colorful coral reefs and their inhabitants without a snorkel.
Okinawa has a little bit of everything for everyone. Whether you are an adrenaline junkie or a stay-in-villa homie, Okinawa is a perfect destination. Spend time soaking up the sun on the pristine beaches, then continue to dip yourself in the waters and swim with magnificent marine animals. Alternatively, if you are not feeling like soaking yourself in seawater, you can see the enormous Okinawa Aquarium. It’s so huge that you can find whale sharks inside the aquarium!
Things to Do in Okinawa: Go island hopping, snorkeling, diving, sightseeing, drive around the main island, visit Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, soak up the sun on Okinawa’s best beaches, see the remnants of World War II in Okinawa Peace Memorial Park, and visit Shurijo Castle
Naoshima
Tokyo might be the hotspot of arts and trends in Japan. However, Naoshima gives us a hint of a distinctive art in Japan. The rural island keeps the masterpieces of Yayoi Kusama, a contemporary artist. Since then, Naoshima is packed with quirky and avant-garde art pieces. If you love arts, Naoshima is surely one of the best places to visit in Japan for you.
Besides the memorable art scene, Naoshima has exquisite natural beauty. The island is adorned with budding forests, fertile meadows, and sandy beaches. Thus, the art spaces and exhibitions in Naoshima complement its brilliant beauty. One of the art spaces that you must visit in Naoshima is Benesse House, which displays a unique, cave-like structure to capture the island’s opulent scenery.
Things to Do in Naoshima: Visit art spaces like Benesse House and Chichu Art Museum, see Yayoi Kusama’s sculpture in Miyanoura Port, relax at Naoshima Bath House, and hunt for scattered art pieces all over the island.
Takayama
Japan seems always full of energy, especially in cities like Tokyo and Osaka. Nonetheless, there are countless tranquil spots in Japan for your peace of mind. One of them is Takayama, a lovely small town nestled in the rugged Japanese Alps. With its serene atmosphere and remarkable setting, Takayama is one of the best places to visit in Japan for an authentic getaway.
Traveling to Takayama makes you feel like you are traveling back in time. The town preserves a series of traditional houses that date back to the Edo period. It offers an unmatched nostalgic vibe, presenting a more traditional and laid-back side of Japan. Moreover, Takayama is shrouded in an exquisite mountain landscape that will take your breath away.
Things to Do in Takayama: Stroll around Takayama Old Town, learn about Japanese festivals in Matsuri no Mori, walk along the historic Higashiyama Path, shop in Takayama Morning Market, and see a traditional matsuri (festival)
Mount Fuji
We won’t leave out Mount Fuji as one of the best places to visit in Japan. The enchanting snow-capped mountain has been an icon of Japan for a long time. Mount Fuji, nicknamed “Fuji-san”, is a sacred mountain for the Japanese people. UNESCO even recognized Mount Fuji as a heritage site, for its cultural importance to the fascinating Japanese culture.
As you set your eyes on the snowy mountain, it will take your breath away. Mount Fuji looks opulent in every season, whether it is between the white-casted landscape or sakura-filled scenery. Thus, you can actually hike the mountain. There are around 300,000 steps that will lead you to the peak of Mount Fuji. It is considered one of the best things to do in Japan.
Things to Do in Mount Fuji: Go for a Mount Fuji panoramic tour, climb Mount Fuji, and visit the Fuji Five Lakes
Kamikochi, Nagano
Take a peek at Japan’s incredible nature in the lush terrains of the Japanese Alps. Kamikochi is a pristine highland located in the Nagano Prefecture. It offers outstanding scenery of meadowed hills, snow-topped mountains, and crystal-clear lakes. Additionally, Kamikochi has various hiking trails that are perfect for every level. For that reason, it is one of the best places to visit in Japan.
Kamikochi is gorgeous all seasons, but it looks more beautiful in spring and fall. Hiking in Kamikochi will give you an authentic experience. You will hike through wooded riverbanks, traditional-styled bridges, glimmering ponds, and temperate forests. Furthermore, you will want to take your camera as the view is undeniably splendid.
Kiso Valley, Nagano
Are you looking for a serene, almost-untouched destination in Japan? Then, head to Kiso Valley. Unheard by tourists, Kiso Valley is an immaculate hidden gem that is worth visiting. Kiso Valley was once an important part of the trade route connecting Edo (now known as Tokyo) to Kyoto. Thus, the town is dotted with old traditional houses and antique post offices. At a glance, Kiso Valley will remind you of a Ghibli movie!
Located on the valleys of the Kiso River, the town is veiled with verdant forests, dramatic cliffs, and misty terrains. It complements the antique atmosphere of Kiso Valley, emphasizing its one-of-a-kind charm. Thus, if you visit Kiso Valley, you should try some authentic Japanese experiences, such as dipping into bathhouses and staying in ryokans (traditional Japanese inns). Of course, it is one of the best places to visit in Japan for a peaceful holiday.
Himeji Castle
The elegance and beauty of Himeji Castle are almost unrivaled. The castle stands in the town of Himeji, one hour away from Tokyo. Like sitting on a throne, the castle boasts its sumptuous ornament and intricate architecture. Himeji Castle is considered the most beautiful castle in Japan, as well as one of the best castles in the world. With its magnificent appearance and fascinating history, Himeji Castle attracts visitors from all around the world.
The beautiful UNESCO Heritage Site was built in the 14th century. It was designed with strongholds and tricky mazes in order to avoid enemies. Today, you can see its chambers and complex architecture as you enter the castle. After figuring out the tricky castle layout, you can head to the gardens and cool yourself down. The ornate, zen-styled gardens with dainty cherry blossoms and well-manicured bonsai complement the beauty of the white-painted castle.
If you are planning to travel to Japan, we have a great option for you! Sit back and relax as you join amazing trips hosted by passionate travelers from all over the world. Other than that, you will go on a trip with like-minded travel buddies and have lots of fun. Whether you want to discover the Japanese culture in Kyoto or walk off the beaten path to Kamikochi, we have it all for you!
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