20 BEST Places to Visit in Japan
Japan is a beautiful, interesting, and unique place. Along with modern life, it also magically brings together old customs. When you visit Japan, you will see tall buildings next to old temples. The people are nice, the food is delicious, and there are many historical sites worth visiting. Each city has its own unique story, and each place evokes a different memory.
Japan has something for everyone. There are busy streets in Tokyo and quiet parks in Kyoto. Cherry blossoms bloom in the spring, leaves change color in the fall, snow falls on the mountains in the winter, and the beaches are sunny in the summer. Plus, getting around Japan is easy because trains and buses easily connect most cities.
According to this book, these are the 20 best places to visit in Japan. Each place is different and has its own charm. This trip has something for everyone, whether they like history, shopping, nature, or adventure. Get your bags ready, because you are about to see the land of the rising sun. These are the places you should not miss when you visit Japan.
List Of The 20 BEST Places to Visit in Japan
1. Tokyo
Tokyo is the main city of Japan. With its many lights and tall buildings, there is so much to explore in this busy city. Tokyo Tower, Shibuya Crossing, and Senso-ji Temple are just some of the famous sights you can see. Families will love Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea. Enjoy the nearby street food or visit Tsukiji Market for fresh sushi. Harajuku and Ginza are great places for shopping. Green spaces to relax can be found in parks like Ueno and Yoyogi. Tokyo is one of the most exciting places in the world as it has both new and old customs.
2. Kyoto
Kyoto has many beautiful old temples, parks, and teahouses that people love. It used to be the capital of Japan, and you can still find glimpses of history there today. See the red walls of Fushimi Inari Shrine and the golden Kinkaku-ji Temple in the sun. The city is filled with cherry blossoms in the spring, and the leaves turn red and orange in the fall. Walk around Gion, where the geishas live, and taste the matcha tea or sweets there. If you want to experience the real Japan, you must visit Kyoto.
3. Osaka
The city of Osaka is lively, and the food is amazing. People love to eat Takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) on the street. Visit Osaka Castle and learn about its past. Universal Studios Japan has many fun rides and shows. At night, wander around Dotonbori to see lots of bright lights and big signs. If you want to shop, visit Shinsaibashi and Namba. The people of Osaka are nice and friendly, and the city has lots of fun things to do, interesting things to do, and delicious food. You will never be bored there.
4. Hiroshima
People come to Hiroshima to relive their memories and find peace. After the terrible atomic bombing in 1945, it became famous all over the world. Today, it stands as a beacon of hope. You can learn about its past by visiting the Peace Memorial Park and Museum. Seeing the atomic bomb dome makes it hard to forget the past. There is a famous flying torii gate on Miyajima Island that you can see at Itsukushima Shrine. Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki is a delicious, flaky pancake that you must try. The city has been beautifully rebuilt, and it is happy to welcome guests.
5. Nara
The quiet city of Nara is known for its friendly deer and old buildings. You can feed and play with the deer that roam Nara Park. Todai-ji Temple has a huge Buddha statue that you must see. Check out the many stone lights at Kasuga Taisha Shrine. In the spring, cherry blossoms make this park even more beautiful. Nara is a great place for a day trip as it is not too far from Kyoto or Osaka. This peaceful place shows how beautiful old Japan was.
6. Sapporo
Sapporo is located in the northern part of Hokkaido Island and is known for its snow and beer. In winter, there is a festival with giant snow sculptures called the Sapporo Snow Festival. Ski areas such as Niseko are nearby and are great for skiers. In summer, the city has beautiful parks and flower fields. You should definitely taste the popular ramen in Sapporo and visit the Sapporo Beer Museum. You can also go for a walk in Odori Park. The city of Sapporo is both modern and beautiful, so it is worth visiting at any time of the year.
7. Fukuoka
This city is very busy and is located on the island of Kyushu. It is known for tonkotsu ramen with pork soup. See the city view from Fukuoka Tower and relax in Ohori Park. Be sure to visit Canal City, which is a great place for shopping and fun. There are many temples in the city. Tochoji Temple has a huge wooden Buddha. You can also enjoy the sea breeze on Fukuoka’s beaches. The city has a warm and friendly atmosphere, and the people living here are nice. It is a great place to enjoy the southern beauty of Japan.
8. Hakone
The city of Hakone is quiet and close to Mount Fuji. It is known for its onsen, which are hot springs where you can relax and enjoy the outdoors. The Hakone Ropeway takes you to see the mountains and Lake Ashi. On a clear day, you can see Mount Fuji from here. You can enjoy art at the Hakone Open-Air Museum. The area is also known for its old-fashioned tea shops and inns. You can relax and enjoy beautiful views in Hakone on a weekend away from Tokyo.
9. Nikko
Nikko, a small town where you can learn about wildlife and history. The main attraction here is the Toshogu Shrine, which is surrounded by tall pine trees and is full of colors and details. Rivers and lakes such as Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji are also in the area. In the fall, Nikko is covered in red, orange, and yellow leaves. It is a great place to spend the day from Tokyo, as the city is quiet and relaxing. It is also a Japanese UNESCO World Heritage Site.
10. Kanazawa
Kanazawa is a city whose history and culture are still alive. Be sure to visit Kenrokuen Garden, one of the most beautiful parks in Japan. Be sure to see the neighborhoods with traditional wooden houses of old warriors and geishas. Another specialty of Kanazawa is its castle. People love the city’s fresh fish, especially sushi. In winter, when it snows, the city looks even more beautiful. Kanazawa is less crowded than Tokyo or Kyoto, but the customs and beauty are the same. It is a precious gem of Japan.
11. Kobe
Kobe is a port city famous for its delicious beef and beautiful harbor. You can taste the popular Kobe beef at nearby restaurants. At Meriken Park, you can stroll along the waterfront and see the Kobe Port Tower. In the Kitano area, you can see old Western-style houses. Mount Rokko is nearby and offers climbing trails and views of the city. Not far from Kobe, Arima Onsen also has hot springs. It’s a unique blend of big city life, nature, and delicious food.
Also Read: 20 Famous Historical Monuments in the World
12. Takayama
The small mountain town of Takayama is known for its old streets and wooden houses. Visit this famous old town to see what Japan used to look like. You can buy fresh food and other goods at the Takayama Morning Markets. The Takayama Festival features floats and music in the streets in spring and fall. The traditional town of Shirakawa-go is nearby and is known for its thatched-roof houses. Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Takayama is a quiet and cultural place to visit.
13. Matsumoto
Matsumoto’s Black Castle is its most famous feature. It is also called “Crow Castle” because of its dark color. This building is one of the most beautiful buildings in Japan. You can eat soba noodles and walk around the old town. The city is near the Japanese Alps, making it a great place to start wildlife and hiking. Matsumoto also has art museums and hot springs. The city is very beautiful and has a lot of history, culture, and fun things to do outside.
14. Yokohama
Yokohama is near Tokyo and is known for its large Chinatown. The Chinese food here is delicious, and the streets are full of bright colors. Visit the Cup Noodles Museum to learn how instant noodles are made. Minato Mirai is a seaside area with shops, a Ferris wheel, and new buildings. This is Yokohama. There is also the Ramen Museum, where you can taste a variety of ramen. The city is fun and has both new and old things to see.
15. Nagasaki
Nagasaki’s history is linked to both Japan and the West. The city was also hit by an atomic bomb during World War II. The Peace Park and the Atomic Bomb Museum still tell the story of hope. You can see old Western-style houses in the Glover Garden. People also come to view the city at night from Mount Inasa. You must try Nagasaki Champon, a local noodle dish. The city is quiet and has its own charm due to the different cultures living here.
16. Kamakura
It is a beach town near Tokyo. It is famous for its huge metal statue called the Great Buddha. The city has many temples and walking trails. After visiting Hase-dera Temple, take a stroll along Komachi Street to pick up snacks and gifts. Kamakura also has beaches where you can cool off in the summer. It is a great day trip if you want to see nature, learn about history, and enjoy the cool sea breeze.
17. Fuji Five Lakes
The best views of Mount Fuji can be found near the Fuji Five Lakes area. You can camp, take photos, and enjoy boat rides at the five lakes (Kawaguchi, Yamanaka, Sai, Shoji, and Motosu). The mountain is even more beautiful in the fall, when the red leaves add to the scenery. Around the lakes, you can visit hot springs, museums, and small towns. A peaceful place away from city life, it’s a great place for those who love being outdoors.
18. Nagoya
Nagoya is a new city with a lot of history and high-tech things. You should definitely visit Nagoya Castle and Atsuta Shrine. In addition, the city is also known for its science museums and car business, including the Toyota Memorial Museum. Miso katsu (pork cutlet with miso sauce) is a local dish that you should definitely try. Nagoya has parks, shopping streets, and a fun nightlife. Being located between Tokyo and Osaka, it is an easy place to stop on your trip to Japan.
19. Okinawa
Like Hawaii, Okinawa is located in the southern part of Japan. The air is warm year-round, and the water is clear blue. People come here to swim, relax, and do water sports. Visit Shuri Castle to learn about the Ryukyu Kingdom. The food of the region is unique, as is Okinawa soba. The islands are surrounded by coral reefs and marine life, making them great places for diving and swimming. Okinawa is different from the main islands of Japan because it has its own culture and moves at a slower pace.
20. Himeji
Himeji Castle is located in Himeji. It is called the “White Heron Castle” because of its bright colors and beautiful shape. This castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved castles in Japan. During cherry blossom season, this castle looks extremely beautiful. Kokoen Garden is nearby and is a tranquil promenade among ponds and flowers. Himeji is easy to reach as it is near both Osaka and Kyoto. This largely reflects how beautiful Japan’s past was.
Final Words
Japan is a beautiful place that you should definitely visit. Each place on this list has its own history, charm, and adventure. From the busy streets of Tokyo to the quiet beaches of Okinawa, Japan has a lot to offer tourists. In the same trip, you can enjoy delicious food, visit old temples, stroll through colorful gardens, and discover new places.
Japan’s fast trains and good public transportation make it easy to travel around the country. No matter how long or short your trip is, these 20 best places to visit in Japan will make it an unforgettable experience. Don’t forget to follow the rules, try new cuisines, and see more than just the well-known places. Stroll the quiet streets and discover hidden gems.
Japan is more than just a place to visit. You can feel it in your heart when you get home. The people are nice, the weather is pleasant, and there’s a mix of old and new. You’ll definitely want to go back. Get ready to discover the magic of Japan by planning your trip and taking your camera with you.
