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Best places to visit in japan.

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

Izu Peninsula

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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.

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

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

Yiming Chen/ Getty

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In Kyoto don’t miss:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In Tokyo don’t miss:

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

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

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

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

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

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3) Takayama

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

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

In Takayama don’t miss:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In Hakone don’t miss:

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

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

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

5) Kanazawa

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

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

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

In Kanazawa don’t miss:

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

How Long to Spend: 2 nights. 

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

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

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

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

In Nikko don’t miss:

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

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

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

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

7) Koya-San

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

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

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

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

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

How Long to Spend: 1 night. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

We also love the forest shrine complex Kasuga Taisha.

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

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

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10) hiroshima and miyajima.

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

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

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

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

Read: 14 Best Day Trips from Kyoto .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

12) Kinosaki Onsen

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

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

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

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

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

13) Naoshima Island

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

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

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

14) Okayama

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

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

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

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

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

15) Himeji Castle

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

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

16) Kawaguchiko

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

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

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

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

See my Lake Kawaguchiko guide for more tips. 

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

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

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

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

More Japan, Direct to your Inbox!

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

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

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62 Comments

very informative

Reply ↓

thanks for sharing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Good luck with the planning and enjoy Japan!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Enjoy Japan!

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

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

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

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

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

Have you been to the Autumn Takayama Festival? 😊

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

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

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

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

very nice good work

Thanks for the detailed post with nice photographs

I forgot to include in early to mid December.

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

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

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

Beppu should be on this list!

Hopefully we’ll make it there next time!

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

what about Harajuku?

I included it in the Tokyo section :)

It’s definitely worth visiting!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks! Chris

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

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

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

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

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

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

regards tomek

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

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

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

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

I wish you luck.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Who knew there were cherry blossoms in the Philippines?!

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

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Boutique Japan

30 Best Destinations in Japan

If you’re planning a trip to Japan, one of the most important, enjoyable, and challenging steps is deciding where in Japan to go.

With so many amazing places to choose from, and so much online content to sift through, figuring out your ideal destinations can seem daunting, whether it’s your first time to Japan or a return visit.

The good news is that Japan has so many incredible urban and rural destinations (and bucket list-worthy Japan experiences ) that you basically can’t go wrong. The “bad” news is that there may be no such thing as a true “best places in Japan” list, since so much comes down to personal preferences and interests.

To help you cut through the clutter and make informed choices for your Japan trip , we’ve compiled this in-depth curated guide to 30 of Japan’s best destinations.

Originally written in 2016, this post was updated and republished on October 14, 2021.

Your Guide to Japan’s Best Destinations

Our guide to the best places in Japan is based on our personal, firsthand experience living in and traveling throughout Japan. As Japan travel experts , this is our job!

Read more about our travel philosophy below, or jump straight into the destinations by clicking on one of the links below:

Best Cities in Japan

Most beautiful places in japan, how long should you spend in japan.

From our perspective, when it comes to something as personal as travel, there is no such thing as a true “must-visit.” It comes down to personal preference, above all. This is why we specialize in planning custom trips to Japan , so we can help our clients visit places that will be meaningful to them personally.

But we understand that “best of” lists can provide valuable inspiration, especially in the early stages of planning. So based on our travels — and our experience arranging custom Japan trips for travelers from around the world — we’ve compiled this “short” list of worthwhile and rewarding places to visit, both on and off the beaten path.

For most travelers, we suggest visiting cities and the countryside, for a varied and well-balanced experience. For example, even with as little as 1 week in Japan, you can get an introduction to the modern (and surprisingly peaceful) Tokyo, the historic (and surprisingly hip) Kyoto, and still have time for at least 1 night at a traditional ryokan in the Japanese countryside.

One final note: we couldn’t include every single place we love in Japan, and please also keep in mind that these are not listed in any particular order. Now that we’ve covered some key background, onto the fun part…

Japan is home to some of the world’s most dynamic and fascinating cities. While exploring Japan’s urban centers — from Sapporo to Fukuoka, and everywhere in between — you’ll be able to enjoy the best of Japanese food ; shopping, art, and design; some of Japan’s best boutique and luxury hotels ; and more.

Even if you’re the type of traveler who tends to avoid big cities, we recommend giving Japan’s cities a chance. Along with being worthwhile for so many reasons, they often surprise nature-lovers with how tranquil they can be. Yes, there are busy and hectic areas, but the peaceful backstreets of cities like Tokyo and Kyoto a totally different story.

Another thing that sets Japan’s cities apart is that, along with all the excitement they offer, they’re also incredibly efficient and safe. These are among the many, many reasons we love Japan so much.

If you can only visit a couple of Japan’s cities, you’ll probably gravitate towards Tokyo and Kyoto, for good reason. In many ways these are essential destinations, especially if it’s your first trip to Japan.

Tokyo needs little introduction, and while we typically recommend people spend at least 3-4 nights here, you can get a sense for how much there is to see and do in our mini guide to One Day in Tokyo .

One of the world’s most exciting and eclectic cities, Tokyo is full of amazing restaurants (with cuisine both high and “low”), beautiful gardens, cutting-edge architecture, charming neighborhoods , and a glittering neon-filled cityscape.

There are also countless great day trips near Tokyo, including Kamakura and Nikko (both featured below), among others .

Kyoto could not be more different than Tokyo, but is equally enthralling. One of the most culturally rich cities in the world, Kyoto is what many travelers dream of when envisioning Japan.

You could easily spend weeks exploring its backstreets, generations-old craft shops and restaurants , not to mention the ancient capital’s temples and shrines . For a sense of what the city offers, see our mini guide to 3 Days in Kyoto , but for a more comprehensive view don’t miss our Guide to Kyoto .

Day trip possibilities also abound, with options including Osaka and Nara (both featured below), Kibune and Kurama, Lake Biwa and Shigaraki, and more.

3. Kanazawa

Kanazawa is one of Japan’s loveliest traditional destinations, renowned for its beautifully preserved historical districts, elegant crafts, and some of the country’s best seafood and produce. Along with Kyoto, Kanazawa was spared air raids during World War II, leaving much of the historic city intact.

Along with its crafts and cuisine, highlights of Kanazawa include Kenrokuen (one of Japan’s best gardens ), the city’s lovely geisha and samurai districts, the colorful Omicho Market, the D.T. Suzuki Museum of Buddhist philosophy, the striking 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, and Myoryu-ji (the Ninja Temple). See more in our Introduction to Kanazawa .

Despite its proximity to Kyoto, Osaka could not be more different from its more tradition-oriented neighbor. The rambunctious city of Osaka is best known for its culinary culture (see our guide to Osaka’s food ) and wonderfully friendly people.

For our clients, Osaka tends to be less about sights and more about tastes, but the city also offers plenty in the way of things to see and do, including the reconstructed Osaka Castle, the world-famous Osaka Aquarium, and Universal Studios Japan. For a deeper look, see our Introduction to Osaka .

5. Hiroshima and Miyajima

Most people associate Hiroshima with its tragic past, but the city — along with neighboring Miyajima — offers much more than history.

Hiroshima is best known as the site of one of two atomic bombs dropped on Japan by the US at the end of World War II. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum is located in the Peace Park, adjacent to the sobering sight of the iconic A-Bomb Dome (see our guide to the best things to do in Hiroshima ).

The Peace Park and Museum are well worth visiting, but after reliving the horrors of 1945 you’ll see that Hiroshima’s present is much brighter. Hiroshima’s people are friendly and outgoing, and in addition to the famous local specialty, okonomiyaki , Hiroshima is full of bars and restaurants offering local sake (and, in winter, the amazing local oysters).

Miyajima, located just outside the city, makes for a perfect day trip, though some travelers choose to stay on Miyajima itself (instead of, or in addition to, a stay in Hiroshima proper).

Miyajima is famous for the picturesque Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site with a magnificent red torii gate that appears to be floating in the waters of the Inland Sea. But Miyajima is much more than simply Itsukushima Jinja: the island offers plenty to see and do, including sea kayaking, hiking, quaint streets offering tasty local snacks, and more.

Fukuoka is a cosmopolitan city at the northern end of the rugged Kyushu island. Also known as Hakata, the city of Fukuoka is one of Japan’s culinary capitals, and is also blessed by relatively mild weather, a buzzing energy yet laid-back feel, and access to Kyushu’s beautiful landscapes.

Fukuoka’s food is the draw for many travelers. The city is legendary for its tonkotsu ramen , and also one of few cities in Japan with a thriving yatai culture. Yatai are humble and casual food carts, where you can drink and dine among locals. In addition to its culinary highlights, Fukuoka is a magnet for creatives with a vibrant arts scene, attracting young artists and designers from throughout Japan (and Asia).

Most travelers visit Hokkaido (featured in the Most Beautiful Places in Japan section below) for its nature, and some of the world’s best skiing and snowboarding. But the island’s food is also a huge draw, and one of the best places to eat is the island’s largest city, Sapporo.

In Sapporo you can sample the mouthwatering variety of Hokkaido’s cuisine, including top-quality sushi, sashimi, and seafood in general; some of Japan’s best dairy and baked goods; premium Japanese fruits; heartwarming specialties including miso ramen, soup curry, and jingisukan (“Genghis Khan,” a grilled mutton dish); and more.

Nestled between the mountains and the sea, the port city of Kobe boasts a relaxed yet refined and cosmopolitan atmosphere. For those who have not visited, Kobe may be synonymous with beef, but the city is much more than a place to eat top-grade wagyu (as a side note, see what many people get wrong about this and other myths and misperceptions about Japan ).

Despite being so near Kyoto and Osaka, many first-time visitors to Japan miss out on Kobe’s eclectic charms: scenic mountains and harbor views, fascinating history, fantastic food (including one of Japan’s best Chinatowns), and wonderful local sake.

Kobe is also a relaxing base for visits to the nearby Arima Onsen, and day trips to Himeji and Akashi. For those interested in Japanese baseball, the local Hanshin Tigers have some of the most enthusiastic fans you’ll find anywhere on Earth.

For travelers exploring Tohoku (featured below), Sendai can be a fun and memorable place to stop off for a night or two en route to more remote locations. The city has a lively nightlife scene, with countless izakayas offering up local specialties and nihonshu (sake) from around the region. Sendai is also a convenient base for exploring the nearby Matsushima Bay and the charming port town of Shiogama.

10. Takamatsu

Takamatsu is a pleasant city on the northeast coast of Shikoku Island, another of our favorite off-the-beaten-track regions.

Most travelers stop in Takamatsu en route to more out-of-the-way destinations, such as Naoshima and the Iya Valley (both featured below). But Takamatsu itself is worth a visit, with highlights including its renowned sanuki udon noodles, the gorgeous Ritsurin Koen Garden, and the serene Isamu Noguchi Garden Museum Japan .

Japan has no shortage of beautiful places, and below you’ll find some of our favorite villages, towns, and regions around the country. Even if you’re a hardcore city person, to complement your urban experiences we highly recommend at least one visit to the Japanese countryside.

Thanks to Japan’s world-class rail network (learn more in our Guide to Train Travel in Japan ), getting into rural Japan is easy, though in certain regions you may want to hire a private driver or rent a car, as some of the most remote areas are best explored with a vehicle.

For more rural travel inspiration, see our feature on Japan’s Best Off-The-Beaten-Path Places . Lovers of nature and relaxing rural escapes will also find inspiration in our 13-day Luxury Ryokans & the Japanese Countryside sample itinerary.

Even though we love telling people how beautiful Tohoku is, few people take us up on actually visiting! This is unfortunate for travelers who love unique destinations, but great news for people who are happy to get off the tourist track to spend time in relatively out-of-the-way locations.

The Tohoku region, located in northern Japan (just south of Hokkaido), is vast and about as remote as it gets on the country’s main island of Honshu. There are far too many highlights to list, so for a deeper look at this little-visited region see the Tohoku section of our article on Japan’s best off-the-beaten-path destinations .

12. The Kiso Valley and Nakasendo Road

One of the best places in Japan to experience a village-to-village walk, the Nakasendo Way in the Kiso Valley is a rewarding destination for travelers who love a mix of nature and tradition. The Kiso Valley is located just south of the Japan Alps (known for cities including Nagano and Matsumoto ) and north of the bustling city of Nagoya.

The best way to experience the Nakasendo Road is by spending at least a day or more walking between villages along the historic route, which was used by samurai to travel between Tokyo and Kyoto during the Edo period.

For a short trip, you can do the half-day hike between Magome and the stunning village of Tsumago, and spend the night at a quaint rural ryokan along the way. If you have the flexibility, consider spending 2 or 3 days along the trail, including stops in the more remote Kiso-Fukushima and Narai-juku village.

13. Izu Peninsula

Located just to the south and west of Tokyo, most visitors to Japan speed through Izu without even realizing it. The shinkansen (bullet train) traveling between Tokyo and Kyoto passes through the northern end of Izu, but the majority of its gems lie to the south.

Izu is overflowing with natural beauty, onsen (hot springs), and a few of our favorite spots in the peninsula include the quaint Shuzenji Onsen village, coastal Izu-Kogen, and historic Shimoda. Izu is home to several remarkable ryokans with hot springs, and is by far one of the best places to experience a luxury ryokan near Tokyo and Kyoto .

14. Koyasan (Mount Koya)

In recent years, Mount Koya has become more popular (and crowded), yet it’s still worthwhile for travelers with an interest in Buddhism and Japanese history. Approximately 2 hours south of Osaka (and 3 hours from Kyoto), it’s possible to visit Koyasan as a day trip, but for a deeper experience we recommend staying overnight in one of Mount Koya’s shukubo (temple lodgings). To learn more, see our Guide to Visiting Mount Koya .

15. Naoshima

Without a doubt one of Japan’s best art destinations , Naoshima is arguably a must for lovers of modern art and architecture. The island’s highlights include the museum-hotel Benesse House, Tadao Ando’s breathtaking Chichu Art Museum, and the quirky Art House Project. Learn more about this one-of-a-kind art island in our Guide to Naoshima .

16. Kurashiki

One of our favorite little places in Japan’s Chugoku region (partly because of our love for Ryokan Kurashiki ), Kurashiki is a small city best known for its beautifully preserved historical district, located along a picturesque canal. Kurashiki’s old merchant district, known as the Bikan Historical Quarter, is lined with attractive former kura (storehouses) that have been lovingly preserved and converted into charming galleries, boutiques, and cafes.

Located less than an hour from Kyoto, the rural city of Nara actually preceded Kyoto as Japan’s original ancient capital. Today the city is rightly renowned for its treasure trove of UNESCO World Heritage sites, most of which are within relatively easy walking distance of one another around the central Nara Park (home to the city’s famously outgoing deer). Read more in our Guide to Visiting Nara .

18. Kinosaki Onsen

A perfect destination for travelers who love old traditional villages and hot springs, Kinosaki Onsen has been delighting onsen enthusiasts for generations. The city is blessed with a wealth of historical ryokans and bathhouses, and it is a joy to stroll through the old-fashioned town in yukata (light Japanese-style robe) and geta (wooden clogs) to soak it all in.

19. Kamakura

Another gem for lovers of history and nature, Kamakura is a laid-back seaside town about an hour south of Tokyo. Historical highlights abound, but complementing Kamakura’s rich tradition you’ll also find young transplants from cities like Tokyo running stylish little cafes and shops. To learn more, see our in-depth Introduction to Kamakura .

A couple of hours north of Tokyo, in rural Tochigi Prefecture, Nikko is a mountainous destination renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage shrines and temples, surrounded by natural beauty. As a full-day trip from Tokyo, it is possible to take in many of Nikko’s highlights (which include Nikko Toshogu Shrine and the Kegon Falls), but Nikko and Kinugawa Onsen are also home to countless ryokans with hot springs for travelers who prefer to explore the area in more depth.

21. Onomichi

Along with Naoshima, the quaint port town of Onomichi is another of our favorite destinations in Japan’s colorful Setouchi (Seto Inland Sea) region. Located on the southern coast of Hiroshima Prefecture, Onomichi charms travelers with its quirky atmosphere, a beguiling blend of retro and modern. Walking along its old-fashioned shotengai (central shopping arcade), you’ll encounter classic neighborhood mom-and-pop shops alongside tiny design-forward boutiques. To learn more about this offbeat town, see our Guide to Onomichi .

Onomichi is also the perfect jumping-off point for travelers looking to spend more time exploring the scenic Shimanami Kaido .

Hakone is no secret, but despite its popularity remains a worthwhile destination for travelers who love nature, art, and luxurious accommodations. Along with Izu, it is one of the best and most convenient places to experience a ryokan when traveling between Tokyo and Kyoto. To read more about this scenic onsen destination, see our Guide to Visiting Hakone .

Hakone can also be a great base for views of Mount Fuji, if the weather is clear. Fujisan is notoriously “shy,” as it’s often obscured by cloud cover, but when visibility is good the vantage point from Hakone can be stunning. If seeing Mount Fuji is a top priority for you, consider the town of Kawaguchiko as an alternative.

23. Yakushima

It doesn’t get much more beautiful than Yakushima, a subtropical island off Kyushu’s southern coast. The remote island offers miles of untouched coastline and some of Japan’s most rugged hiking, with trails winding through lush forests full of mossy rocks and ancient cedar trees (some as old as 7,000 years!). Despite being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Yakushima remains largely untouched by tourism, and is a magical place to experience Japan’s natural beauty.

24. Hokkaido

Japan’s northernmost island, Hokkaido is renowned for its cuisine, whisky , world-class winter powder, and wide-open landscapes. Traditionally the home of the indigenous Ainu people, Hokkaido was colonized by Japan in the 19th century. Sadly, Ainu culture has suffered greatly, though in recent years there have been increasing efforts to value the history and also present-day culture of the Ainu.

You won’t find many traditional villages in Hokkaido, unlike in most other rural parts of Japan. But you will find pristine expanses of nature, unique wildlife in isolated places like the Shiretoko Peninsula, some of the best skiing and snowboarding on the planet in places like Niseko, and astoundingly good food and drink.

For more on the northern island, see the Hokkaido section of our post on Japan’s best off-the-beaten-path destinations .

25. Kumano Kodo

The Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route is one of Japan’s most enchanting walks. Deep in rural Wakayama Prefecture, just a few hours south of Kyoto and Osaka, the UNESCO-recognized Kumano region is filled with spirituality and history, as well as beautiful landscapes, charming villages, hiking, and onsen .

Walks along the pilgrimage route range from day hikes all the way up to challenging multi-day walks for the more adventurous. The Kumano Kodo is also part of a Dual Pilgrim program with its sister walk, Spain’s better-known Camino de Santiago.

26. Takayama, Shirakawago & Gokayama

Established in the 16th century, Takayama is a historic town in the Hida Mountains of the Japanese Alps renowned for its traditional atmosphere and culinary offerings, including the famous Hida-gyu beef, wonderful rice and mountain vegetables, and premium sake. While the town has become popular over the years, even when the town center is filled with day-trippers a stroll in most directions will reveal quiet backstreets.

Within easy reach of Takayama, deep in the Japanese Alps are the UNESCO World Heritage historic villages of Shirakawago and Gokayama , and the off-the-beaten-path Hida-Furukawa.

Matsue, located in western Japan’s beautiful but little-visited Shimane Prefecture, is one of Japan’s hidden gems. Most visitors travel to Matsue for the breathtaking Adachi Museum of Art . In addition to its impressive collection, the Adachi Museum is most renowned for its world-famous garden, which blends almost magically into the surrounding landscape.

In Matsue itself, enjoy excellent seafood and sake, and visit Matsue-jo (Matsue Castle), one of only a handful of surviving original castles in Japan. Matsue is also the ideal base from which to visit Izumo Taisha, one of Japan’s oldest and most important Shinto shrines, as well as the idyllic Oki Islands.

28. Noto Peninsula

Jutting out into the Japan Sea, to the north of Kanazawa, is the rugged Noto Hanto (Noto Peninsula). Made famous by the wonderful book Rice, Noodle, Fish (one of our favorite Japan travel books ), Noto Hanto makes for a great self-drive destination. Visit the Wajima Market, enjoy dramatic coastal scenery, have lunch at Flatt’s , and consider spending the night at one of Noto’s beautiful onsen ryokans.

29. Yaeyama Islands

Japan is not the first place that comes to mind when most people think of beaches in Asia. Yet it’s home to one of the region’s most beautiful subtropical destinations: the Yaeyama Islands.

The whole Okinawan archipelago is full of gorgeous little islands, but for one of the most unique experiences Japan has to offer, the remote Yaeyama Islands have no equal. Geographically closer to Taiwan than to mainland Japan, the Yaeyama Islands feature not only picturesque beaches and lush jungles, but a rich Ryukyu heritage and culture, not to mention Okinawan food .

30. Iya Valley

The beautiful Iya Valley in Shikoku is one of Japan’s most hidden regions, and when you traverse the terrain you will appreciate why. It is made up of narrow river gorges and steep mountain peaks, covered in thick vegetation. Although now more accessible than in centuries past, the Iya Valley remains a fantastic place to experience rural and traditional Japan. Read more about the whole of beautiful Shikoku in our feature on Japan’s best off-the-tourist-track regions .

One of the most common Japan travel questions we hear is, How many days should I plan to spend in Japan?

Before we elaborate, the simple answer is: as long as possible! Next to a huge country like China, Japan may look small on the map, but it’s larger than it looks.

Purely in terms of area, Japan is slightly smaller than the state of California . But in terms of places and experiences, Japan is as dense as Europe, where you can travel an hour or two in any direction and arrive at a remarkable destination. This density of incredible places is what makes Japan feel larger than it otherwise might. Most travelers only fully grasp this after a first visit, which often prompts a desire to return again as soon as possible to explore further.

Thus, we recommend you “admit defeat” from the start, and accept that you won’t be able to “do” Japan in just one trip (whether you have 2 weeks or 2 months). Trust me: we’ve spent years exploring Japan, and are not remotely near “finished”!

This being said, here are some basic guidelines to give you an idea of the possibilities depending on how long your Japan trip will be:

Less Than 1 Week in Japan

While shorter than we might normally suggest, if you’re thinking of visiting Japan for less than a week, make sure to see our article on where to go if you have 5 days in Japan .

7 to 10 Days in Japan

This is typically the minimum timeframe we recommend. With 1 week to 10 days in Japan, you will have time for a well-rounded introduction to the country. Our 8-Day Japan Essentials: Tokyo, Kyoto & Hakone sample itinerary is a great example of how much you can see and do with about a week in the country.

10 to 14 Days in Japan

With a little extra time, you can include additional destinations, or simply spend more time immersing yourself in each place you visit. Our sample trips below provide some examples of how much you can see and do with about two weeks in Japan:

• Two Weeks in Japan: A Perfect Itinerary
• Luxury Japan: Art, Culture & Cuisine
• Japan Cities, Mountains & Art
• Luxury Ryokans & the Japanese Countryside

2 to 3 Weeks in Japan

With 2 to 3 weeks or longer in Japan, you begin to have more flexibility to visit a wider variety of regions, while also enjoying a significant degree of cultural immersion. While less common among our travelers from the US and UK, many of our Australian clients are fortunate enough to be able to devote 3 or more weeks to traveling around Japan. With this much time, the possibilities are virtually endless, so we hope our list helps you narrow things down to your own personal wish list!

Where in Japan Will You Go?

While we couldn’t include every single one of our favorite places in Japan, we hope our guide to Japan’s best destinations helps you decide where to go on your trip.

At Boutique Japan, our specialty is crafting completely customized trips for travelers seeking unique, authentic experiences. If you are interested in learning more about working with us, please feel free to explore our trip planning process .

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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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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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21 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Japan

Written by Meagan Drillinger Updated Mar 20, 2024

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

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

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

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

1. Mount Fuji

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Hiroshima

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Kyoto

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Nara

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Osaka

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

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Nagoya

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Fukuoka

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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17 Best Places to Visit in Japan

By Becky Griswold · Last updated on June 7, 2024

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

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

and the ancient wonders of the Edo capital of Kyoto. Embark on temple pilgrimages in Shikoku, explore the peaceful streets of Hiroshima or get lost in the never-ending glittering delights in the buzzing streets of Tokyo.

Map of Japan

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

17. Kinosaki Onsen

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

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

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

16. Naoshima

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

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

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

15. Shirakawa-go and Gokayama

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

13. Kiso Valley

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

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

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

12. Koya-san

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

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

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

11. Ishigaki

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

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

10. Miyajima

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

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

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

9. Kanazawa

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

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

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

8. Hiroshima

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

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

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

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

7. Kamakura

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Takayama

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Reader interactions.

July 31, 2019 at 7:26 pm

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

June 1, 2018 at 12:48 pm

Hiroshima, but not Miyajima?

March 20, 2017 at 7:52 am

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

June 17, 2016 at 8:29 am

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

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

December 11, 2015 at 5:32 am

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

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

May 16, 2015 at 8:36 am

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

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Where to Go in Japan

Deciding on Japan destinations can be the most difficult part of your trip, especially if it’s your first time. But not exclusively: I’ve taken more than two dozen trips to Japan, and I still struggle with whether it’s a better choice to see lavender in Hokkaido , carpets of shibazakura at the base of Mount Fuji or (extra)ordinary sakura in Kyoto , to give a flowery example of this dilemma.

Indeed, I struggle whether to focus on nature at all—Japanese cities are an ecosystem all their own, after all. If you know you want to take a trip to Japan, but you’re just not sure where or what Japan tourist attractions you should focus on, you’re in the right place.

Must-See Japan vs. Japan Off the Beaten Path

If you’ve never been to Japan before, your bucket list is probably long. And while some of the places in Japan you want to visit might be out-of-the-ordinary (I recently helped a couple plan their first trip, and they were adamant about visit the “art island” of Naoshima in the Seto Inland Sea), chances are the Tokyo, Kyoto and Hiroshima are at the top of your list, in addition to staying someplace where you can see Mt. Fuji and enjoy a nice onsen bath.

However, the guide I’m about to share doesn’t simply spotlight popular tourist spots in Japan. I’ve spent years exploring the nooks and crannies of Japan, from ancient sacred sites like the Izumo Shrine in San’in region, to unique historical destinations like Yoshinogari Archaeological Park on Kyushu island, to otherworldly nature like Shikoku’s Naruto Whirlpools.

Popular Japan Destinations

It’s a no-brainer to visit Tokyo when you come to Japan—or is it? Landmarks like Tokyo Tower and Senso-ji Temple are iconic, and the neon lights of busy districts like Ginza and Shinjuku convey a futuristic ambiance. But while Japan’s capital is a place you should definitely travel at some point on your trip, it’s arguably not the country’s most essential destination or city, even if I’ve had special experiences (every time I take a winter trip to Tokyo is ends up being a notable example of such experiences) there myself.

Note that while you can see Mt. Fuji from several of Tokyo’s skyscraper rooftops, the best place to get up-close and personal with the mountain is in Kawaguchiko , a lake town accessible by direct bus from Mark City Mall in Shibuya , or various other places in Shizuoka , Yamanashi and Kanagawa prefectures.

That honor would go to Kyoto , in my opinion, though many will argue that the city is overrated. From the scenic viewpoint at Kiyomizu-dera Temple (particularly when it’s framed by sakura in the spring and vivid colors in the fall) , to the hypnotic gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha , to the shaded pathways of Sagano Bamboo Grove in Arashiyama , Kyoto is not only my favorite place in Japan, but a city I’d love to call home someday. It’s home to many of the best Japan tourist places, but something intangible as well. Check out my round-up of things to do in Kyoto !

In spite of its large size, Osaka doesn’t get the recognition among popular cities in Japan that it deserves, probably because it’s forever in the shadow of nearby Kyoto. In addition to having the best food in Japan ( takoyaki , okonomiyaki , gyoza —oh my!), Osaka is also home to laid-back people, awesome attractions like Osaka Castle and Dotonbori pedestrian street, as well as its status as the hub of the Kansai region. Osaka might not be among the Japan destinations you’re currently considering, but it should be.

On the other hand, many travelers list Hiroshima among their top destinations in Japan, and I’m not sure this is always well-founded. Hiroshima Peace Park and the A-Bomb Dome are very moving and informative, especially if you’re into history, but somehow the modern and vibrant (and delicious—try the okonomiyaki pancakes!) city that stands around them is ultimately more emotionally affecting to me. Indeed, my favorite place to visit in Hiroshima is Miyajima island, home not only to the floating Itsukushima Shrine , but to a small population of deer (like Nara in the aforementioned Kansai region).

Traditionally, Japan’s northernmost island of Hokkaido has traditionally drawn visitors in with the award-winning ski slopes of Niseko , which are reputedly home to the finest powder in the world. However, if you come to Hokkaido during summer, you can discover tourist attractions in Japan that are not yet mainstream, but will be soon. The most visually pleasing of these are lavender fields in Furano , though I also really enjoy the so-called “Blue Pond” of Biei and the historical canal of Otaru (which is also very beautiful in winter, with massive icicles dangling from its ledges!)

I hesitated about whether to put the Okinawa archipelago in this section or the next one. On one hand, it’s certainly among the most famous places in Japan, if only from a name recognition perspective. On the other hand, visitors to the islands are primarily Japanese tourists (with the possible exception of US military members), which is a shame. The prefectural capital of Naha provides an interesting glimpse into the culture of the ancient Ryukyu Kingdom, while islands like Ishigaki are home to Japan’s best beaches .

Underrated Japan Tourist Spots

Japanese alps.

Many travelers’ exploration of central Honshu’s mountains begin and end at Jigokudani Monkey Park , but I implore you to spend more time here. Whether you walk along the ancient Nakasendo trading route, discover underrated Japanese cities like Matsumoto and Takayama or simply take a dip in a natural onsen hot spring, make the Japanese Alps a priority, perhaps even at the expense of more popular Japan destinations, particular if you visit Japan in winter .

Speaking of winter in Japan, this is perhaps my favorite time to visit the historical city of Kanazawa , sometimes known as the “Kyoto of the North.” The hub of Japan’s underrated Hokuriku region, Kanazawa is a hotbed of discovery, whether you traipse through geisha districts like Higashi Chaya and Kazue-machi , marvel at Kenroku-en garden in all four seasons or tour former Samurai homes in Nagamachi . With a Japanese name that translates to “Marsh of Gold” in English, Kanazawa certainly sparkles.

I only passed through Kyushu , the southern-most of Japan’s four main islands, en route to paradisiacal Yakushima island on my first trip to Japan. Since then I’ve been back a few times, exploring cities like Fukuoka and Nagasaki , attractions like Beppu Onsen and Japan must see destinations like Karatsu Castle and a relaxed energy that’s elusive in much of the rest of the country. Other popular Kyushu destinations include the castle city of Kumamoto and Kagoshima , a vibrant port city that sits at the best of Sakurajima volcano.

San’in

If you’re looking for Japan off the beaten path, San’in (the northern part of the Chugoku region, the westernmost one of Japan’s main island Honshu) is the place to go. A land that is simultaneously full of cultural, historical, culinary and natural wonders and almost completely empty of tourists, San’in has a name that literally translates to “in the shadow of the mountain,” but will leave you feeling bright. Start at the mysterious Tottori Sand Dunes before climbing Mt. Daisen , road tripping in the Oki Islands , visiting Matsue Castle and Izumo Shrine or enjoying the charming country town of Tsuwano .

Whether you’re looking to explore scenic Japan or just want to visit a destination that few others do, Shikoku is a great choice. I particularly love the contrast Japan’s smallest (main) island provides, and the ease of experiencing it. In mere minutes, you can go from captivating cities like Tokushima , Kochi , Takamatsu and Matsuyama to natural wonders like Naruto Whirlpools , Shimanto River and Kotohira-gu Shrine . Though Shikoku isn’t where you’ll find many popular cities in Japan, it hides a magic all its own.

Some of the most beautiful places in Japan I’ve ever seen are in the Tohoku region, which comprises the northern tip of Honshu Island. This is especially the case during winter, whether I’ve found myself walking amid the so-called “Snow Monsters” of Mt. Zao or taking a dip in the famous Tsuru no Yu onsen. Tohoku is also famous during sakura season, particularly if you can manage to see the mystical “petal moat” of Hirosaki Castle . On the other hand, one Tohoku destination I can’t particularly recommend is the “Fox Village” a few hours west of Sendai , which is more of a zoo than any sort of refuge.

How Long Should You Spend in Japan?

Many people believe that because of ultra-fast trains in Japan, it’s possible to do a “simple” trip (i.e. visiting the best cities to visit in Japan) in just a short time. In some sense, this is true—I’ve created an itinerary for one week in Japan that explains how to do this, and advises you of the stamina you’ll need to have to see it through.

Of course, Japan sightseeing isn’t just a matter of ticket sights off a list. A big part of experiencing Japan is feeling the way of life, listening to the cadence of the language, adapting to the local customs and so forth. In general, I’d say to spend as long in Japan as you can afford in terms of time and money, though I find two or three weeks in Japan tends to be a sweet spot for many travelers.

My Japan Itinerary Planning Service

The good news? I’ve assembled an extensive set of Japan trip ideas , whether you need guidance on what to do in cities like Tokyo and Hiroshima, tips for planning a two-week or one-month trip to Japan , or want to try and get the timing of a sakura  trip in the spring just right to see your favorite Japan landmarks covered in cherry blossoms . (Trust me: I’ve been too early and too late for full bloom, and you don’t want to deal with either.)

The better news? I’ve decided to offer up my years of experience in the form of a custom Japan travel itinerary planning service, where I create the perfect trip based on your personality and interests. Click here to learn more about the packages I offer , what they include, how much they cost and why all my previous clients are raving about my work as a Japan trip planner.

Other FAQ About Japan Destinations

Where should you go in japan.

While first-time visitors may want to stick to Japan’s Tokyo-Kyoto/Osaka-Hiroshima tourist trail, I encourage you to venture off the beaten path. Venture onto underrated islands like subtropical Shikoku, adventure-filled Hokkaido or eclectic Kyushu. Visit underrated regions such as spiritual San’in, understated Mie and thrilling Tohoku, or simply hit the beach in Okinawa.

What is the prettiest place in Japan?

The challenge, when traveling in Japan, is finding a place that isn’t pretty. With this being said, I happen to find that Kyoto’s temple-filled Higashiyama district (especially when it’s at the peak of cherry blossom season in early April) is among the most beautiful places in Japan.

Where should you avoid in Japan?

Although certain destinations in Japan (the city of Nagoya comes to mind) have mixed reputations, I don’t necessarily recommend avoiding any specific places. Rather, I would make more of a strategic suggestion: Don’t go anywhere in Japan simply because you feel like you must. Having a burning desire to visit a place, on the other hand, makes even the most boring ones endlessly interesting.

The Bottom Line

Whether you’re searching for mainstream Japan destinations like Tokyo and Kyoto, or want to visit Japan off the beaten path in San’in or Tohoku, you’re in the right place. Over the course of two dozen trips to Japan, I’ve done the grunt work of breaking down the country’s complex cities and regions into simple explanations you can easily understand why you should—or shouldn’t—visit them. If you still need some extra help, please don’t hesitate to enlist my custom Japan itinerary planning service.

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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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30 Best Things to Do in Japan

Bryce was born in California, but raised from the age of 3 near Seattle, Washington. He’s been living in Tokyo for about 7 years, and graduated from Temple University, Japan with degrees in economics and international business. He loves traveling of course, but also cooking, snowboarding, some video games as well. His biggest interest is songwriting/music production, more specifically electronic music… (think Skrillex, Marshmello, Daft Punk, etc.) He also has terrible humor as you’ll notice, but he hopes you’ll enjoy it!

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Traveling around Japan is an incredibly diverse experience with plenty of activities to suit any preferences. Whether it’s breathtaking nature , immersing yourself in traditions and culture, gawking at futuristic wonders, or eating to your heart’s content, the options are inexhaustible. We have compiled a list of 30 of the best things to do and places to visit, making this a great place to start planning your adventure to Japan!

1. Admire Mt. Fuji

2. soak in an onsen, 3. stay at a traditional ryokan, 4. go to a sumo tournament, 5. ride the bullet train, 6. experience a tea ceremony, 7. eat fresh seafood from tsukiji market, 8. take in the beautiful cherry blossoms, 9. walk through the bamboo forest in arashiyama, 10. join a traditional festival, 11. make your way to a castle, 12. check out teamlab, 13. traverse shibuya crossing, 14. try all the different ramen, 15. find peace at a japanese garden, 16. meet your favorite cute characters at sanrio puroland, 17. walk through the famous fushimi inari shrine, 18. explore a big city on a food tour, 19. check out some real life ghibli locations, 20. ski in some of the world’s best snow, 21. meet the deer of nara, 22. go izakaya-hopping, 23. visit senso-ji temple in asakusa, 24. hit the sandy beaches of okinawa, 25. visit the fantasy like shirakawago, 26. geek out in akihabara, 27. eat a high-end kaiseki meal, 28. experience sapporo snow festival, 29. see the japanese snow monkeys, 30. visit hiroshima peace memorial museum and the atomic bomb dome, japan wonder travel tours , other articles you might be interested in.

Mt. Fuji, also known as Fuji-san , is the pride of Japan and can be enjoyed either by getting a great view of it, or getting a great view from it! Many places in Japan, such as Kawaguchiko , offer great views of the mountain; its cone-like shape is i-cone-ic to say the least! Climbing Mt. Fuji is not quite as grueling as one might think, so be sure to consider it if you enjoy hiking! 

An onsen is a natural hot spring, and many bathhouses and entire recreational towns are built around them in Japan. The mineral-rich water is not only remarkably relaxing, it is also said to be great for your skin. Bathing culture in Japan is quite different from some western cultures, but it is truly amazing. Some of the establishments can be highly luxurious with a wide variety of baths, while others are more humble – there’s something for everyone. In the cold of winter , or after strenuous activities such as hiking or skiing, onsen work wonders for your cold and sore muscles!

Ryokan are traditional Japanese inns offering a high-end, culture-rich accommodation experience to both domestic and foreign travelers. Between the food, the relaxing baths, the beautiful rooms, and the immaculate service, you’ll feel nothing but at peace.

Attend a sumo wrestling event with a long history and minimal theatrics, which is sure to be different from any other fighting or martial arts tournament you’ve experienced before. Sumo is greatly influenced by long lasting traditions said to date back thousands of years. The bouts themselves are relatively simple, yet the dedication of the wrestlers is astounding and leads to outstanding feats of physique and strength. It is also amazing seeing the sumo wrestlers do their daily morning routine/practice at their sumo stables. If you want exclusive access to one of the stables to see them in action right in front of you, check out our tour below!

▼ Sumo Stable and Sumo Morning Training Tour with audio guide!

Getting around Japan is a breeze with the bullet trains and their network of tracks criss-crossing the nation. Much less of a hassle than flying, the bullet trains offer a very comfortable ride at an astonishing ground speed. Watch cities and neighborhoods whizz by with the landscape and mountain silhouettes drifting in the background. Bring your bento , grab a beer, sit back and relax until you arrive at the doorstep of your next destination.

Tea has a strong presence in Japanese culture; it is not simply a drink to accompany a meal, but an artform in itself. Matcha , a green tea made from a fine powder, is the centerpiece of traditional tea ceremonies . If you think these ceremonies are just about drinking a fancy cup of tea, prepare to be blown away. Details such as how the cup is rotated or the way you sit, are crucial to the ceremony, and being a tea master is a job only for highly skilled professionals.

▼Book a tea ceremony experience in Japan

Another delicacy that has a strong presence in Japanese culture: fish! Unless you’re a fisherman, the freshest seafood you can get will be from Tsukiji Market . While Tsukiji is no longer home to the famous tuna auctions which are now held in Toyosu , it is still a reliable market for all kinds of fresh seafood, so if you like sushi , be sure to head here! The market is big and can be especially hard to navigate without an English speaking guide. We highly recommend booking a tour to make your experience all the better and rich!

▼Book Our Tsukiji Tour for the richest and tastiest Experience!

Spring is a time of rejoicing as the cherry blossoms signal warmer days and nice weather to come. There are many places around Japan where you can see this breathtaking natural wonder and enjoy all the festivities centered around the beloved pink flowers. Nothing is better than a springtime picnic with friends and family, or a stroll down a walkway lined with cherry blossom trees!

Have you ever wanted to wander under the slender, swaying trunks of majestic Japanese bamboo? Well, look no further than Arashiyama in Kyoto ! It is truly a fantastic sight, and the bamboo forest here is very tall, dense, and expansive. However joining a tour that includes food and drink can make the experience all the better! Book below.

▼Book our fun filled Arashiyama food and drink tour!

Festivals are a great way to get a valuable insight into Japanese culture and have an unforgettable, energetic experience at the same time! Japanese festivals are being held year-round for different reasons, which can be about seasonal changes, folklore, or a local tradition. They usually take place at or around shrines and can attract crowds from just a few hundred people to millions of spectators. Be sure to check one out!

As you may have noticed, many noteworthy places in Japan have been around for a long time, and history is indeed very interesting and relevant here! Traditional Japanese castles are an example of such noteworthy sights; some have been reconstructed, but there are also some original ones left, and they offer an enlightening look into the historical architecture and significance of certain locations.

While the country’s historical and traditional vibes are definitely enjoyable, Japan is also known for its futuristic elements. teamLab is an interactive art exhibition that offers some great photo ops. Not only can you be entranced by the immersive lighting exhibits, the shoes-off environment allows guests to feel unique textures to accompany the visual art.

If you haven’t already, purchase your tickets here:  teamLab Planets Tokyo

It seems like this location always makes the cut for any movie featuring Japan – and rightfully so! Shibuya Crossing is huge, and even during non-peak hours, hundreds of people may be crossing it at once. During busy times it can be thousands, and crossing the street here is a short, but iconic experience. It seems that Tokyo’s authorities in recent years became aware of the crossing’s cinematic value and hence constructed Shibuya Sky – be sure to check it out for a great bird’s eye view!

Ramen , while having roots in Chinese cuisine, is a fundamental part of Japanese food culture . Noodles, meat, toppings, and a flavorful broth make up this delicious comfort food that has a plethora of different styles! “Try all the different ramen” might prove very difficult since there are so many styles and shops to choose from, so be sure to check out our recommendations for the best ramen to try during your trip!

The perfect pairing for an elegant tea ceremony: a serene Japanese garden . Constructed with the same intricacy and intimacy as tea ceremonies, Japanese gardens are the perfect place to appreciate the meticulous arrangement of stones, plants, water features, houses, and more. Many gardens have a long history and are a unique way to feel a sense of peace that has lasted for centuries.

Did you come to Japan seeking overwhelming cuteness? Well, meet Hello Kitty and all of her adorable friends at Sanrio Puroland ! Yes, this is the pinnacle of cuteness in Japan, so be prepared to dive deep into the famous kawaii culture with plays, shopping, and other interactive experiences all available here.

Click  here  to purchase tickets!

We are sure you’ve already seen the rows of bright red torii gates on Instagram or other social media: this is the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto! A popular destination for foreign and domestic tourists alike, this great hiking opportunity featuring an astonishing number of torii , is the perfect photo op .

Can’t decide where to eat ? Fret not – there are plenty of tours to help you figure out just that. And even if you do have an idea about what you like, a local tour guide will surely be able to help you find the best spots to cater to your taste. Not to mention it’s a great social experience and opportunity to meet fellow foodies and travelers exploring the wonders of Japan!

▶ Shinjuku Biggest Drinking Town Izakaya Hopping Tour (Evening Tour) ▶ Kyoto Food and Drink Tour @Nishiki Street & Gion ▶ Asakusa Local Bar Hopping Tour (Evening Tour)

Big fan of Ghibli’s iconic anime? So are we! And if you’re looking for an immersive experience, look no further. One of the best options is the theme park in Nagoya , and if you’re in Tokyo, there is also a museum in Mitaka. Aside from those, there are a handful of locations that inspired Ghibli, scattered throughout Japan.

Skiers, snowboarders, and other people who enjoy playing in the snow, will certainly not be disappointed with Japan’s extensive selection of phenomenal snow resorts . Most locations certainly live up to Japan’s reputation for great snow quality, but areas such as Nagano , Niigata , and Sapporo are home to some of the best resorts, like Hakuba and Niseko.

One of the more bizarre experiences in Japan is the deer village in Nara . This is a town where deer have become accustomed to roaming freely, and it’s almost comical: provided you have some deer food with you, they will actually bow to you in exchange for the tasty treat. They have no fear of humans and are generally very endearing. They even tend to use pedestrian crossings properly!

Izakaya , a fusion of a bar and a casual restaurant, are great places to fill up on drinks and tasty treats. One of the many good features of most izakaya is something called “ nomihodai ”, which basically means “all you can drink”. Yes that’s right: for a fixed price you can drink as much as you like for a certain amount of time! The food is generally a wide variety of small dishes that go well with drinking. Though, there are plenty of spots that specialize in certain kinds of alcohol and food as well. It is always more fun exploring izakaya and bars with a local who knows the area. Have a look below for some fun izakaya hopping tours!

▶ Shinjuku Biggest Drinking Town Izakaya Hopping Tour (Evening Tour) ▶ Asakusa Local Bar Hopping Tour (Evening Tour)

Senso-ji Temple is one of the oldest, if not the oldest, Buddhist temple in Tokyo. The giant paper lanterns, Japanese deity statues, and bustling shopping streets make this temple an extremely popular destination. The place is great for souvenir shopping and getting a good understanding of what a Japanese temple is like. Overall, it is a great historical location in Asakusa filled with fun things to do.

The only thing that may be able to compete with the amazing snow in Japan are the extraordinary beaches in Okinawa ! A small archipelago south of mainland Japan, Okinawa has its own distinct culture and even its own language . You’ll surely be able to relax and enjoy yourself on this tropical island getaway.

This tiny fairy-tale village is a supreme winter destination for those who appreciate gorgeous traditional architecture surrounded by stunning landscapes! This small countryside getaway is nestled into the mountains and features unique architecture with the steep, a-frame roofs ( gassho-zukuri ) made to withstand the huge amounts of snow falling here every winter. There’s a variety of shops and restaurants here, and it’s even possible to stay overnight at this wonderful UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Akihabara , also known as Electric City, has all your anime and manga needs covered. It’s also home to tons of technology and other computer-related shopping . This is the perfect place to fulfill all your “geeky” pleasures, and there are so many things to do that you can easily spend a full day or more here.

▼Book our Akihabara Anime and Otaku Culture Tour!

Kaiseki is a traditional, multi-course Japanese meal . They are generally served at specialty restaurants and ryokan and are usually not on the cheap side. They are, however, an amazing experience with equal attention to taste and presentation, and often using seasonal and local produce. This unique dining style is a must to try at least once when visiting Japan!

Playing in the snow in Japan is great fun, but the sculptures and statues at the Sapporo Snow Festival will blow your mind. This world-famous festival features huge structures made completely out of snow and ice, and a lot of other fun activities such as sledding is also on offer. And you will be close to some pretty amazing locations for skiing, snowboarding, and of course food . However, if you’re planning on going to the festival, be sure to book your accomodation in advance, as everything tends to sell out quick. For a selection of some great hotels near the festival, have a look below!

Another unique winter sight in Japan, are the Japanese macaques in Nagano, also known as snow monkeys . There is an onsen here where the monkeys warm up from the cold weather, and it’s a fun experience to observe the monkeys play, interact and relax in the steaming water.

Hiroshima was the first place in history on which an atomic bomb was used in war. Against all odds in this event, a structure that was directly beneath the explosion survived and is now known as the Atomic Bomb Dome . The structure serves as a powerful memorial to the lives lost. In addition, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum is another place that provides information on the event, including photography, artwork and remaining belongings from the victims. 

▼Get the full Hiroshima experience with our private tour!

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

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

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

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

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

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Kansai Osaka Bright, gaudy and playful: Osaka provides ample amusement with little pretension

• Destinations

Osaka is a charming, relaxed city best known for its food, fun and nightlife—with some history and culture peeking through

How to get there.

Osaka is an excellent base for exploring the greater Kansai region, which includes Kyoto, Nara, Kobe and Wakayama. Each of these areas is a one-hour train ride from Osaka’s central transportation hubs (Osaka Station in the north, and Namba Station and Tennoji Station in the south). Kansai International Airport (KIX) is rivaled only by Narita Airport in Tokyo in size and scope, and is serviced by all major airlines. There are many direct flights between KIX and many major cities in the US, Europe and Australia.

• The neon lights of Dotombori Bridge and Osaka’s Minami area
• Exploring Osaka Castle Park and Expo Memorial Park, the site of Expo '70
• Partaking in major seasonal festivals including Tenjin Matsuri, Kishiwada Danjiri and Ebessan
• Indulging in famous culinary delights, particularly in neighborhoods such as Tenma and Ura Namba

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Cherry Blossoms

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Trending Attractions in Osaka

Local Specialties

Iwa okoshi are candied puffs made from millet. They've been produced in Osaka since 1185. Think of them as cereal bars with eight centuries of history behind them.

Okonomiyaki

Okonomiyaki are savory pancakes made with shredded cabbage, flour, egg and dashi, and either cooked at your table for you or left for you to cook yourself. The latter option is much more fun. A long list of toppings and combinations are available, with some of the more common ones being pork, shrimp, octopus and cheese.

Bits of octopus combined with pickled ginger and green onions, mixed in a batter and grilled in a special mold. The resulting spheres are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. An Osaka classic topped with Worcestershire sauce, ginger and seaweed flakes.

Osaka Kongo Bamboo Blinds

Bamboo blinds predate the Heian period (794-1185), and were first used inside the Imperial palace and the residences of nobles. Finely crafted and elegant Osaka Kongo sudare, made of quality bamboo from the foot of nearby Mt. Kongo, have a beauty and ambiance that is quintessentially Japanese.

Sakai Forged Blades

Sakai hamono are hammer-forged blades from Sakai and Osaka. Crafted using traditional blacksmithing techniques, these cutting utensils are prized for their strength and edge geometry.

Seasonal Highlights

A sea of pink fills the prefecture's parks and boulevards, and the city comes out in full force to celebrate the gorgeous views at Osaka Castle, Yodogawa Riverside Park and the Osaka Mint.

Festive spirits and outdoor amusements take everyone's minds off the stifling heat. Osaka's foremost festival, the Tenjin Matsuri, thrills the crowds and many head for the prefecture's southern beaches. Frequent firework displays brighten the night.

As summer's humidity dissipates, the leaves turn fiery red and provide a striking backdrop for outdoor adventure. The Midosuji Parade brings a vibrant procession and marching bands down Osaka's grand boulevard.

Holiday illuminations light up the urban areas and end-of-year festivities get into full swing. Runners from all over the world gather for the Osaka International Women's Marathon.

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15 Underrated Places to Travel This Summer, From Kosovo to Quebec

By Jamie Spain

Planning the perfect summer trip can take weeks of research, preparation, and organization to ensure it goes off without a hitch. But before you get to the planning and booking phase, you'll need to decide where to go. There's a seemingly endless amount of great options out there, and while there's nothing wrong with heading to the same familiar spot over and over again, sometimes you want to get a little off the beaten path and go somewhere you haven't been before. Whether you're in the mood for a nature escape with jaw-dropping vistas, hiking paths, and secluded lodges, or are looking for a big city excursion surrounded by trendy restaurants, unique neighborhoods, and great shopping, we've got ideas for you.

From islands to national parks , here are 15 underrated summer travel ideas, perfect for avoiding the crowds while you explore someplace new.

Domestic destinations:

Finger Lakes, New York | Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota | Isle Royale National Park, Michigan | Catalina Island, California | San Juan Islands, Washington | Crystal River, Florida

International destinations:

Kosovo | Budapest, Hungary | Copenhagen, Denmark | Buenos Aires, Argentina | Sardinia, Italy | Mauritius | Kyoto, Japan | Bora Bora | Quebec, Canada

Domestic destinations

Finger Lakes, New York

A fan-favorite of New York City residents, the New York Finger Lakes are unquestionably idyllic. The perfect destination for a summer weekend , or a weeklong trip with the family, this region is home to some of the most beautiful waterfronts. Dotted with adorable small towns , the 11 long, slender lakes that make up this area are exactly what East Coast summer dreams are made of. Spend your trip navigating nearby state parks; hiking, biking, and exploring; and enjoying everything that lake life has to offer, from jet-skiing to swimming.

Where to stay: Check out the Gould Hotel , a modern boutique property in Seneca Falls; book a night at The Lake House on Canandaigua for an airy, design-forward stay; or head east to the Inns of Aurora .

Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota

Completely immerse yourself in nature at Minnesota's Voyageurs National Park. This gorgeous destination is ideal for getting in some of the best stargazing you could ever imagine. Just like dozens of other national parks , this one has an International Dark Sky Park certificate, designating it as a location that is particularly good for viewing the night sky and stars. Unlike the others, however, Voyageurs is one of the least-visited national parks in the country, meaning you'll be able to truly connect with nature and enjoy seclusion. It's ideal for boat rides and swimming, as it's primarily made up of waterfronts and islands—almost 40 percent of the park is water.

Where to stay: Nearby Cantilever Hotel is great for those interested in exploring the park, but not wanting to stay too far away from civilization. Those who are a little more daring will enjoy the Kettle Falls Hotel , a property that is only accessible by boat or seaplane. If you're really looking to be one with nature, you can rent a canoe and camp at a tent site.

Isle Royale National Park, Michigan

If you're looking for a summer vacation where you can explore an area relatively untouched by civilization, look no further than Isle Royale National Park . A favorite of my family, this park is uniquely difficult to get to (the main island is best reached by ferry), so the only other travelers you'll find here are extreme adventurers and in-the-know locals. It's best to visit during the summer months since Lake Superior is quite cold and foggy throughout the rest of the year. My family heads to this park in the summer months in hopes of spending a few days backpacking , canoeing, and hiking through the near-untouched environment—admiring the nature and wildlife along the way.

Where to stay: While the actual park is best experienced through camping, those who aren't interested in totally roughing it can stay at the Rock Harbor Lodge , centrally located on the main island. Or, book this nearby rustic Airbnb cabin with panoramic views of Lake Superior for the days leading up to your national park visit.

Catalina Island, California

Just a hop, skip, and a jump from Los Angeles , Santa Catalina Island is quite literally heaven on Earth. Hopeful travelers can either take the one-hour Catalina Express ferry over to the island (it departs daily from San Pedro, Long Beach, and Dana Point) or charter a private yacht to get them there in style. Whether you're looking to hike the Trans Catalina Trail or simply indulge in some tasty seafood while wandering through the quaint town of Avalon, Catalina Island is a great break from the hustle and bustle of LA. Head a bit farther inland to explore El Rancho Escondido , the acclaimed Arabian horse ranch that's also home to Rusack Vineyards.

Where to stay: For day-trippers or those who plan to extend their vacation to include a stay in Los Angeles, there are a variety of hotels and Airbnbs to choose from, including The Beverly Hills Hotel, Dorchester Collection , The Malibu Beach Inn , and the luxe Chateau Marmont Estate on Airbnb. If you're hoping to stay on-island, the plush Bellanca Hotel is the way to go.

San Juan Islands, Washington

A 2019 Readers' Choice Award winner, named one of the best islands for beautiful scenery, this collection of more than 400 islands off the coast of Washington is ideal for a Pacific Northwest weekend getaway. The three most popular (and largest) islands to explore are Orcas , San Juan, and Lopez—all easily accessible by ferry. Travelers can enjoy a laidback vacation with comfortable temperatures and a relaxed atmosphere: hop on a bike and explore the area; spend time sailing, hiking, and fishing; or take a walk to admire all of the islands' natural beauty, from the mountains to the lakes.

Where to stay: Glampers, campers, and regular hotel-goers will all adore the Lakedale which has accommodations for every type of traveler.

Crystal River, Florida

Home to one of the best beaches in Florida , Crystal River is unlike most other cities you'll find in the Sunshine State for one major reason: It's one of the only places in the world where people can swim alongside manatees . If you've ever wanted to truly get up close to these gentle giants, this is the city to visit. Head to the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge to see your fill of the endangered animal, and spend some time taking in the natural beauty of the nearby springs and parks.

Where to stay: The Plantation Resort on Crystal River is home to a variety of different activities including a 27-hole championship golf course and a family-friendly resort with 196 accommodations.

International destinations

There's a reason Kosovo is on our list of the Best Places to Go in 2024, and it has everything to do with the jaw-dropping scenery that can be found in every corner of this country. Outdoorsy folks who want to spend their time hiking and biking through untainted valleys, mountains, and countryside will appreciate the chance to explore the newest European country. Travelers who who are looking for a taste of the young nation's history can head to the national museum; afterward, explore the streets of Prizren taking in the architecture as well as the historic mosques and churches.

Where to stay: Book a night at the Hotel Gracanica in the quiet suburb of Prishtina, or pamper yourself at the luxe Ujevara e Drinit Resort near Peja. For something a little more traditional, enjoy tasty Kosovo dishes as well as classic comforts at the rural Ariu Guesthouse . (Check out our guide on where to eat, play, and stay in Kosovo for even more recommendations.)

Budapest, Hungary

Skip Western Europe and instead head to the beautiful capital of Hungary . Luxuriate in the mineral-rich thermal baths you'll find around the city , or spend your days exploring the historic Castle District, walking along the Danube, and meandering through the city streets. You can even take a faux hot air balloon trip to enjoy the best view in the city. If you plan your trip for August, it may coincide with the Sziget Festival , one of the largest music and cultural festivals in all of Europe.

Where to stay: Book a night at 2024 Gold List winner, The Four Seasons Gresham Palace Budapest , or spend a few nights at the adults-only Hotel Clark Budapest . (Check out our guide on where to eat, play, and stay in Budapest for more recommendations.)

Copenhagen, Denmark

There's no better time to visit Copenhagen than during the summer months when the weather is warm, the days are exceptionally long, and the waterfront views are breathtaking. Aside from being ranked as one of the happiest countries in the world , sustainably-minded travelers will appreciate how eco-focused the place is, and enjoy a trip to CopenHill, the multi-use waste-to-energy plant with a ski slope, climbing wall, and cafe. It's also worth checking out the Tivoli Gardens, Rosenborg Castle, and the picturesque Nyhavn harbor .

Where to stay: Check out our favorite hotels in Copenhagen , including the grand and historic Hotel d'Angleterre , the Nimb Hotel which was originally built as a castle in 1909, and the modern Villa Copenhagen .

Buenos Aires, Argentina

From awe-inspiring museums to culture-packed tours to dance halls perfect for learning to tango , there's no shortage of amazing things to do and see in Buenos Aires . Whether you're spending the day simply walking the streets and taking in the sights; exploring the colorful La Boca; watching a soccer match; learning to tango; or going to the Colón Theatre to see the opera, this will be a trip to remember.

Where to stay: Some of our favorite hotels in Buenos Aires include the luxe Palacio Duhau ; the Jardín Escondido , once home to Francis Ford Coppola; and the Faena Hotel Buenos Aires located right by the water in Puerto Madero.

Sardinia, Italy

There's so much more to Sardinia than just a beautiful coastline and wonderful beaches. While the long, warm days are perfect to spend by the crystal blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea, travelers who want a little more substance to their vacation can head inland to experience the island's charming towns, rustic cuisine, and ancient ruins.

Where to stay: Rest your head at the Cascioni Eco Retreat , set on a 90-acre nature reserve with gorgeous views of the surrounding land. The colorful Su Gologone Experience Hotel is another great option, as is the luxurious, high-end Hotel Cali de Volpe .

Another location on our list of the Best Places to Go in 2024, Mauritius is about 1,200 miles east of Madagascar . From its gorgeous coastlines with pristine beaches to the luxury accommodations and unparalleled nature, this island destination is nothing short of paradise. Head here during the Northern Hemisphere's summer months to avoid wet season. Your main activities on Mauritius will be water-based, from diving and snorkeling to sitting on the beach and admiring the coastline. If you need a break from relaxing, take a trip to the Bel Ombre Nature Reserve, the Botanic Gardens, or the capital city of Port Louis.

Where to stay: Check out our favorite hotels in Mauritius , including the four-time Readers' Choice Award winner and two-time Gold List winner, One&Only Le Saint Géran . You can also book a stay at the legendary resort, Lux Belle Mare , or the kite-surfers' paradise of Riu Palace Mauritius .

Kyoto, Japan

Instead of heading to the mega-popular Tokyo or the bright and lively Osaka, consider touching down in Kyoto , one of the best cities to experience traditional Japanese culture. Spend the day exploring the temples and shrines that are dotted throughout the city; take a walk through Gion, the “Geisha District;” or while away a few hours in the Kyoto National Museum. The best times to visit Japan are at the very end or beginning of summer when the season overlaps with spring and fall, and while it'll certainly be a bit warmer during the peaks of summer, it's no less beautiful.

Where to stay: From the Ace Hotel to the Shinmonzen , there is no shortage of great hotels in Central Kyoto. If you're interested in something a little different, tour guide Sara Aiko from Traveler 's Ask a Local series recommends taking a trip to Moksa , a gorgeous property in the north of Kyoto surrounded by temples and nature.

Nothing says romance like staying in an overwater bungalow in Bora Bora. The winter in French Polynesia corresponds with the summer in the Northern Hemisphere, meaning June, July, and August experience less humid and more comfortable temperatures. This time period also falls during Tahiti 's dry season, so you don't have to worry about being rained out. You could easily spend your days simply lounging in your bungalow and slipping into the crystal waters whenever you feel, but Bora Bora is also ideal for snorkeling, scuba diving, and taking a boat or a 4x4 island tour.

Where to stay: Bora Bora is particularly known for its luxury overwater bungalows. Conrad Bora Bora Nui is a more private option with exceptional snorkeling and coral, The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort is perfect for honeymooners and families alike, and the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora is home to over 100 bungalows, fine dining, and an exceptional spa.

Quebec, Canada

When you think of summer travel, your first thought is probably an island getaway or a far-flung destination that you've only read about in books. But, don't overlook all of the beauty that our northern neighbor has to offer. Quebec City is home to all the same type of charm you'll find in Europe but without the exceptionally long flight to get there. Spend some time in Old Quebec City —home to some of the oldest streets in North America—taking in the history and culture that make this city worthy of its title as a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Or, head to Montreal , where you can enjoy a variety of museums, the open-air market, and great culinary options. Don't forget to explore the nature and French architecture found in the greater province.

Where to stay: For a wonderful stay in Quebec City, Hotel 71 is a six-time Readers' Choice Award winner while Auberge Saint Antoine Quebec City and Le Germain Hotel Quebec are both five-time winners. For a wellness-focused retreat , head to Monastère des Augustines . In Montreal , check out the Auberge du Vieux-Port on the St. Lawrence River, or Hotel William Gray in Old Montreal.

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The 5 best places to see Japan’s cherry blossoms

Jan 12, 2023 • 5 min read

Time your visit to catch the best of Japan's cherry-blossom season © Ippei Naoi / Getty Images

Springtime in Japan means one thing: cherry blossom.

The whole country watches and waits for the first sakura (cherry) trees to burst into bloom. Once they do, people flock to parks and squares for hanami  or flower viewing. The romance is passionate but fleeting, lasting only a week or two.

Cherry blossom viewing has been a tradition in Japan for over a millennium. The delicate blooms have acquired a poetic symbolism of the transience of beauty (and the beauty of transience). As both the new school year and the fiscal year begin on April 1 in Japan, sakura trees have also come to represent a season of fresh starts – certainly something worth celebrating.

Choose your timings carefully

The best time to visit Japan for cherry blossoms is during the spring months. Starting from Kyūshū in the south in March, regular blossom forecasts keep the public updated as the sakura zensen (cherry-tree blossom line) advances northward, usually passing through the Kansai and Kantō regions of Honshū in late-March or early April.  English-language speakers can monitor the cherry-blossom situation with Kyuhoshi 's online forecast.  Latecomers can catch the blossoms in late-April and some times early May in Tōhoku , the northernmost region of Honshū.

There are countless parks , gardens and picturesque waterways across the country where you can gaze upon the beautiful blooms. Choose the best place for your hanami party with this guide to Japan's top cherry-blossom viewing spots.

1. Yoshino, Kansai, is Japan's most famous cherry-blossom destination

The blossoms of thousands of cherry trees form a floral carpet gradually ascending the mountainsides of Yoshino in Kansai. It's definitely a sight worth seeing – and one that many Japanese long to see once in their lifetime – but this does mean that the narrow streets of the village become jammed with thousands of visitors. You'll have to be content with a day trip (doable from Nara , or even Osaka ) unless you've booked accommodations well in advance. Once the cherry-blossom petals fall, the crowds depart and Yoshino reverts back to a quiet village with a handful of shrines and temples .

Best time to go to Yoshino for cherry blossoms :  Blooms tend to appear early to mid-April in Yoshino and last for a few weeks.

2. Hirosaki-kōen, Tōhoku, is less crowded

Hirosaki-kōen  (Hirosaki Park) is a huge green space (nearly 50 hectares!) covering the grounds of what used to be the castle  Hirosaki-jō . All that remains of the actual castle is a 200-year-old keep, but the park is marbled with the old moats, which are now flanked by sakura and crisscrossed with photogenic arching bridges.

There are over 2500 cherry trees here and given that Hirosaki, way up north in Aomori Prefecture, is not the population center that Tokyo (or even Kyoto) is, you can expect a bit more room to move around. R ent a paddle boat to take out on the moats, which are invariably covered in pink petals.

Best time to go to Hirosaki-kōen for cherry blossoms:  Head here  in late-April to early May to see the sakura in bloom.

Want some help? Let Elsewhere plan your next trip.

3. Fuji Five Lakes, Yamanashi, offers the best blossom photos

The view from the Churei-tō Pagoda in Fuji Five Lakes is the ultimate sakura photo: in one frame you get a classic five-story pagoda, with curving eaves and vermillion accents, a frothy sea of cherry blossoms beneath it, and on the horizon, triumphant Mt Fuji still draped in snow. (Odds are you've seen the image on a guidebook cover or two.) So what if the pagoda itself isn't actually old (it's a war memorial from the 1960s) and you have to climb 397 steps to get here?

Arakurayama Sengen-kōen (a park, home to a not-so-shabby 680 sakura trees) is in Fuji-Yoshida , a city at the base of Mt Fuji. It's just about possible as a day trip from Tokyo , but you could also budget an extra day or two for hiking in the foothills of the Fuji Five Lakes region, for the chance of even more Mt Fuji views.

Best time to go to Fuji Five Lakes for cherry blossoms: The blooms tend to peak in mid-April.

4. Maruyama-kōen ( Maruyama Park),  Kyoto, is the top  hanami spot

Kyoto has so many fantastic places to see the blossoms that it's tough to narrow it down. If you're looking for an iconic experience, though, it's safe to say that the best  hanami spot in the city is Maruyama-kōen  (Maruyama Park). In the middle of the park is the Gion Shidare-zakura , the "Weeping Cherry of Gion," named for its proximity to the famed entertainment district, Gion , where geiko (Kyoto's geisha) still perform. The over-10m-tall tree, whose blossom-fringed branches arch gracefully almost to the ground, is illuminated in the evening, from dusk until midnight. Oh, and there are some 680 other cherry trees in the park so you can bet on lots of picnics taking place here. Come early to grab a good spot. And later on, take a stroll along the nearby canal, the Shirakawa , lined with cherry trees and also lit up at night.

Best time to go to Maruyama-kōen  for cherry blossoms: Catch the blooms in early April.

5. Yoyogi-kōen ( Yoyogi Park),  Tokyo, has the best parties under the blossom

Like Kyoto, Tokyo has many popular cherry blossom spots. While it's not the most historic – that would be Ueno-kōen – or the most picturesque – that would be Shinjuku-gyoen – we're doubling down on Yoyogi-kōen  (Yoyogi Park) because it is just the most fun. It's a huge, sprawling park with tufty grass and plenty of cherry trees, with room for everyone and yet it still becomes a sea of party people growing more and more unsteady as the day gives way to night. We've seen barbecues here, turntables and portable karaoke machines, more selfie sticks than we care to count and the odd guy in nothing but his shorts. The only thing Yoyogi-kōen is short on is public toilets (prepare to wait in line).

Best time to go to Yoyogi-kōen  for cherry blossoms: Join the parties under the blossoms in late March to early April.

This article was first published Mar 8, 2018 and updated Jan 12, 2023.

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