interesting places in japan to visit

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Best places to visit in japan.

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

Izu Peninsula

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

12 Day Tour of Japan

Japan by Train: The Grand Tour

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

Starts at: Osaka

Ends at: Tokyo

Duration: 12 days

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Chubu Sangaku National Park

Shirakawa-go and Gokayama

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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.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

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

More on Japan

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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25 Most Beautiful Places in Japan

By Caitlin Morton

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

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Kyoto

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest in Kyoto, Japan

Itsukushima Shrine, Miyajima

Mt. Yoshino

Lake Kussharo, Hokkaido

Hokkaido, Japan

Gion Geisha District, Kyoto

Ashikaga Flower Park, Ashigaka

Fushimi Inari-Taisha, Kyoto

Meguro River, Tokyo

Shirakawa-go Village

Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine and Nachi Falls, Wakayama Prefecture

Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo

Blue Pond, Hokkaido

Himeji Castle

Miyako-jima, Okinawa

Imperial Palace Grounds, Tokyo

Benesse Art Site, Naoshima

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Kyoto

Tama Art University Library, Tokyo

Oyama Rice Terrace, Kamogawa

Hitsujiyama Park, Chichibu

Bioluminescent Rocks, Okayama

Daigo-ji Temple, Kyoto

Tottori Sand Dunes

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24 of the best experiences in Japan

Mar 23, 2024 • 17 min read

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

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

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

1. Devour authentic Japanese food alongside locals

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Chase cherry blossoms and festivals

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

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

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

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

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

3. Cycle between islands around the Seto Inland sea

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

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

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

4. Sip sake in Saijō

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

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

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

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

5. Time jump to ancient Japan in Kyoto

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

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

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

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

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

6. Zip across Japan on a bullet train

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

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

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

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

7. Enter anime worlds in Akihabara and Den Den Town

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

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

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

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

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

8. Sleep in a capsule hotel

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. Indulge in a multi-course kaiseki meal

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

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

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

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

10. Find your tribe in Tokyo's nightlife

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

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

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

11. Try every Japanese snack in a konbini

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

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

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

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

12. Dissolve away your stress in onsen hot springs

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

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

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

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

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

13. Live out samurai fantasies in Japanese castles

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

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

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

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

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

14. Hunt for art outdoors in Naoshima and Hakone

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

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

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

15. Stay in a traditional ryokan

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

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

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

16. Embrace winter skiing and ice sculptures in Hokkaidō

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

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

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

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

17. Immerse yourself in digital art at teamLab Planets

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

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

18. Eat fresh sushi and sashimi

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

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

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

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

19. Make a wish at a Shinto shrine

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

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

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

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

20. Relax in a seaside town

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

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

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

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

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

21. Sense peace in reborn Hiroshima

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

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

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

22. Discover your favorite ramen

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

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

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

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

23. Surf and chill

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

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

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

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

24. Fall in love with Mt Fuji

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

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

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

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The Top 15 Destinations to Visit in Japan

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

Matias Sanchez / Getty 

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

 Shan.shihan/ Getty

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

Matteo Colombo/ Getty  

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

Nikko National Park

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

Amanohasidate

Westend 61/ Getty 

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

 DoctorEgg / Getty 

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

Chiara Salvadori/ Getty 

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

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

Yiming Chen/ Getty

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

Thanyarat07/Getty  

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

Kerama Shoto National Park

 Ippei Naoi/ Getty

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

Miyajima Island

Aladimirzakharov/Getty 

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

 Aladimirzakharov/Getty

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

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

 Annhfhung/Getty

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

 Suttipongs Sutiratanachai / Getty

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

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

Edwin Gimpel/ Getty 

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

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

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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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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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17 Best Places to Visit in Japan

By Becky Griswold · Last updated on June 21, 2024

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

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

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

17. Kinosaki Onsen

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

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

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

16. Naoshima

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

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

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

15. Shirakawa-go and Gokayama

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

13. Kiso Valley

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

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

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

12. Koya-san

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

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

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

11. Ishigaki

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

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

10. Miyajima

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

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

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

9. Kanazawa

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

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

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

8. Hiroshima

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

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

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

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

7. Kamakura

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Takayama

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Reader interactions.

July 31, 2019 at 7:26 pm

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

June 1, 2018 at 12:48 pm

Hiroshima, but not Miyajima?

March 20, 2017 at 7:52 am

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

June 17, 2016 at 8:29 am

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

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

December 11, 2015 at 5:32 am

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

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

May 16, 2015 at 8:36 am

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

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• 35 Best Places To Visit In Japan That Make It Look Right Out Of A Storybook In 2024

20 Feb 2024

Describing Japan as a ‘backpack filled with surprises for every type of traveler’ would just be the right thing to do, thanks to the thousand shrines & temples, gorgeous gardens & palaces, the spectacular mountains, and other major attractions. It’s not only the technological wonders, but also the best places to visit in Japan that have highlighted the island nation on the map. And believe us, exploring each one of them is worth every dime.

So, if you’ve never wondered about visiting there, it’s about time that you do because these must visit places in Japan  offer experiences, which you would have never had before. Get ready to impress yourself with one of the best destinations that give you a mesmerizing feeling. Known for its rich culture, you get to explore while on your trip to Japan.

35 Best Places To Visit In Japan In 2024

Are you looking for beautiful places in Japan? Here are the best places to visit in Japan that you should include on your itinerary to make the best of your trip. Scroll down to know what all awaits you in this scenic land!

• Tokyo – Essence Of Japan
• Kyoto  – Sacred And Serene
• Nara  – City Of Culture
• Mt. Fuji  – A Breathtaking Marvel
• Hokkaido  – Closer To Nature
• Ishigaki  – Exotic Destination
• Hiroshima  – Historically Significant City
• Sapporo  – Forget The Heat And Humidity
• Osaka – A Cultural Delight
• Yakushima – Naturally Gifted
• Hakuba – For Adventurous Activities
• Kamakura – Where The Buddha Resides
• Nagano – Great For Family
• Kawaguchi – Beautiful Landscapes
• Takayama – Away From City Life
• Shibuya – A Bustling City
• Naoshima – Lush-Green Island
• Asakusa – For Parties And More
• Akihabara – Perfect City Life
• Odaiba – For A Rejuvenating Experience
• Kabukicho – Nightclubs And More
• Ueno Park – For A Breath Of Fresh Air
• Yokohama – Charming And Vibrant
• Nikko – Historically Rich
• Tohoku – Relax In Nature
• Kawagoe – Revisit The History
• Nagoya – Traditionally Beautiful
• Kanazawa – For Food Culture
• Shirakawago – A Surreal Place
• Shikoku – Where Serenity Welcomes You
• Nagasaki – A City With Sad History
• Kobe – Surprisingly Attractive
• Fukuoka – Japan’s Oldest City
• Hitsujiyama Park – For An Enormous Sight
• Hakone –  Views Of Mount Fuji

1. Tokyo – Essence Of Japan

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Tokyo is the city that reflects the colors of Japan. In Japan, places to visit are endless, and exploring everything in one trip would always be impossible. But, the popular city of Tokyo still deserves the top spot in your itinerary, thanks to its anime culture and world-class attractions. And if the historical sites don’t impress you much, the city has also got a great culinary scene! This is undoubtedly amongst the best places to visit in Japan for first timers .

Top Attractions:

• Tokyo Disneyland
• Tokyo Skytree
• Tokyo DisneySea

Best Things To Do:

• Spend an evening near the Tokyo Tower in Japan
• Shop in Odaiba
• Witness the grandeur of the Meiji Shrine

Places to stay: 

• Guest House Trace
• Manga Art Hotel
• Khaosan Tokyo Samurai

Places to eat:

• Tapas Molecular Bar
• Ise Sueyoshi

How to reach: Tokyo is very well-connected by airways to the rest of the world, so plenty of airlines from India connect to the Narita Airport.

Must Read: Christmas In Japan

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2. Kyoto – Sacred And Serene

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The city of shrines, gardens & palaces! Of all the major Japan destinations, the sacred city of Kyoto is one of the best places to visit in Japan in spring irrespective of whether you are holidaying with your family or your partner. The iconic temples, shrines, palaces, gardens, and bamboo forests are a treat to the eyes, and you cannot afford to miss it on your first trip.

Top Attractions In Kyoto :

• Kyoto Imperial Palace
• Philosopher’s Walk
• Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine

Best Things To Do In Kyoto :

• Visit the Kiyomizu Temple
• Explore the Nijo Castle
• Visit the famous Kinkaku-ji
• Village Kyoto
• Downtown Inn Kyoto
• Santiago Guesthouse Kyoto

Places to eat in Kyoto :

• Samurai Juku
• Sugarhill Kyoto
• Saishuan Shiraki

How to reach: Osaka International Airport is the closest airport in Kyoto which is approximately 1 hour from the city.

3. Nara – City Of Culture

Home to adorable deers, temples & more! No list of the top Japan attractions can ever be complete without including Nara in it. Home to many shrines, monasteries, museums, and the famous Nara Park, this city is where you need to be to get familiarized with the famed Japanese culture and traditions. It definitely features on the list of unmissable places to visit in Japan.

• Kasuga-taisha
• Ninja Museum of Igaryu
• Visit the Isuien Garden
• Befriend the deers at the Nara-koen Park
• Explore the Nara National Museum
• Smile Hotel Nara
• Super Hotel Lohas JR Nara Eki
• Guesthouse Nara Komachi
• Tonkatsu Ganko Nara

How to reach: Kansai International Airport is the closest airport to Nara and it takes around 1 and half hours to reach Nara.

Suggested Read: Japan Travel Guide

4. Mt. Fuji – A Breathtaking Marvel

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The paradise for adventure seekers! Renowned around the world for offering the most thrilling experience in Japan, Mt. Fuji is the ultimate place to visit and definitely one of the most romantic places in Japan. While the official climbing season begins from July and ends in September, you can witness the beauty from a distance throughout the year. It is one of the best  places to visit in Japan for young adults. Needless to say, this place ought to be on your list!

• Mount Tenjo
• Chureito Pagoda
• Fujiyoshida Sengen Shrine
• Go for skiing
• Visit the Arakurayama Sengen Park
• Enjoy the views of Mt. Fuji from the Subashiri 5th Station

Places to stay:

• Hatago Ichiya
• Bself Fuji Villa
• Hotel Mount Fuji
• Tempura Restaurant Ninja

How to reach: The nearest airport to Mount Fuji is the Shizuoka Airport which is 83.5 km away. You can hire a cab or take bus to  reach Mt Fuji.

5. Hokkaido – Closer To Nature

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The abode of natural hot springs! Popular for its volcanoes, hot springs, and ski areas, this gorgeous Japanese island looks right out of a picture book. And it is because of its various attractions & experiences that it is an impeccable place to holiday with both your kids and significant other. Be it the beauty of the Blue Pond or the Zoo, you’d be left mesmerized. It is one of the most ideal places to visit in Japan during summer.

• Asahiyama Zoo
• Farm Tomita
• Relax in the hot spring
• Treat yourself with scrumptious seafood
• Visit the famous national parks
• Yorkshire Farm
• Hotel Park Hills Hokkaido
• Puremiahoteru – CABIN – Obihiro
• Hokkaido Cafe
• Hokkaido Ramen Kyowakoku

How to reach: New Chitose Airport Sapporo is the closest airport to Hokkaido. You can find local taxis and cabs for a ride.

Suggested Read: 10 Most Alluring Homestays in Japan

6. Ishigaki – Exotic Destination

Image Credit: MarcelloRabozzi for Pixabay

The most trending travel spot in Japan! Voted as the most trending travel spot for 2024, the Ishigaki Island is definitely amongst the best places to visit in Japan. Despite its size, the island has no limit when it comes to offering unique experiences to its tourists, and glamming up their holiday in the Japanese land. It has been also voted as the best places to visit in Japan in cherry blossom season.

• Taketomi Island
• Ishigaki Limestone Cave
• Indulge in snorkeling
• Relax on the beaches
• Savour the Ishigaki Beef
• Ishigaki Guesthouse HIVE
• Blue Cabin Ishigakijima
• Ishigaki Seaside Hotel
• Sushi Taro 

How to reach: The Ishigaki Airport is the closest, just 18 km away. Local buses and taxis are available.

7. Hiroshima – Historically Significant City

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The city that beautifies Japan’s landscape! In spite of being known around the world for being a victim of the horrendous atomic bombings, Hiroshima continues to be one of the major places to see in Japan. And believe us, apart from the dedicated monuments and sites that reflect the history, the city also has other spellbinding attractions like the Itsukushima shrine. This is the most popular places in Japan.

• Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park & Museum
• Hiroshima Castle
• Itsukushima
• Try Okonomiyaki, the local delicacy
• Visit the Mazda Museum
• Capture pictures at the Shukkeien Garden
• K’s House Hiroshima
• Grand Prince Hotel Hiroshima
• Court Hotel Hiroshima
• Parco della Pace
• Guttsuri-ann

How to reach: Iwakuni and Matsuyama airport are located 70 km away. Hire a cab, taxi or local bus to reach your destination.

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8. Sapporo – Forget The Heat And Humidity

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A haven for beer and ski lovers! With cities like Sapporo, ‘what to see in Japan’ would never be your top concern. The city not only helps you escape the heat and humidity but also help you discover your winter wonderland during its famous Sapporo Annual Snow Festival. If not the gardens, then the huge snow sculptures would definitely steal your heart! This is one of the best places to see in Japan with family!

• Moerenuma Park
• Former Hokkaido Government Office
• Mount Moiwa Observation Deck
• Visit the Sapporo Beer Museum
• Party in Susukino
• Indulge in local delicacies at the Curb Market
• The Stay Sapporo
• Relief Sapporosusukino Hotel
• Tmark City Hotel Sapporo
• Gotsubo Oyster Bar
• Hyousetsu No Mon
• Sapporo Beer Garden

How to reach: New Chitose Airport Sapporo is the closest 53 km away. Local taxis and cabs are in abundance to drop you at your destination.

9. Osaka – A Cultural Delight

Image Credit: 663highland for wikipedia

With the best shopping arcades, eateries that offer incredible food, and the top nightlife hotspots in the city, Osaka is one of the major places to go in Japan. Believe us, it would not only pamper the foodie or party lover in you, but also the die-hard tourist who loves witnessing the wonders of every place he or she visits. This is most preferred places to visit in Japan for first timers!

Top Attractions In Osaka :

• Universal Studios Japan
• Osaka Castle

Best Things To Do In Osaka :

• Visit the Kaiyukan Aquarium
• Visit the Hozenji Temple
• Go beer tasting and partying at night
• Hotel Taiyo
• Hotel Fine Garden Juso
• APA Hotel Osaka Higobashi Ekimae

Places to eat in Osaka :

• Osaka Tacos
• Giga Rabbit
• Curry Yakumido

How to reach: Kansai International Airport and Osaka International Airport are the nearest airports to Osaka. You can find taxis from the airport to reach your destination.

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10. Yakushima – Naturally Gifted

An island of magical waterfalls! An island in Kagoshima Prefecture, Yakushima is famous for its wildlife, cedar forests, and waterfalls. If you’re someone who loves venturing into the wild for an experience of a lifetime, then this best place to visit in Japan is absolutely worth your time.

• Senpirono Falls
• Mt. Miyanoura
• Kayaking or canoeing in Anbo river
• Witness the Oko-no-taki Waterfall
• Watch the Loggerhead turtles lay eggs
• Seaside Hotel Yakushima
• Guesthouse Yakushima
• Yakushima Curry House

How to reach: Tanegashima airport is the closest to the city. Hire a cab, taxi or local bus to reach your destination.

11.  Hakuba – For Adventurous Activities

The ultimate winter wonderland! Situated amidst the Japanese Alps, right outside the city of Nagano, Hakuba is a village cum famous winter sports hub. The various mountain resorts that offer incredible skiing, snowboarding, and hiking experiences make the city a perfect place for including it into your Japan sightseeing tour. Undoubtedly, it is considered to be one of the most famous places in Japan.

• Mt. Shirouma
• Hakuba Happoone Winter Resort
• Ski at the Cortina Resort
• Visit Hakuba 47 Winter Sports Park
• Hike to the Happo Pond
• Courtyard by Marriott Hakuba
• Morino lodge
• Hakuba Highland Hotel
• Raicho Lodge Madarao
• Izakaya Kaz

How to reach: Tokyo’s Narita and Haneda Airports are the closest international airports. Local taxis and cabs are in abundance to drop you at your destination.

Suggested Read:  Solo Travel In Japan

12. Kamakura – Where The Buddha Resides

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The Kyoto of eastern Japan! In Japan, points of interest might vary depending on the type of traveller you are. But it’s quite the opposite when it comes to the seaside town of Kamakura. Boasting bamboo groves, ancient temples, vibrant beaches, great shopping alleys, and lip-smacking local delicacies, this town has everything that would amuse you. So, you must add this destination to the list of places to visit in Japan near Tokyo itinerary.

• Enoshima Aquarium
• Kamakura Museum of Literature
• Kannon Museum
• Witness the Great Buddha of Kamakura
• Go surfing at Shonan Beach
• Visit the Jufukuji Temple
• Kamakura Park Hotel
• WeBase Hostel
• Kebab Kamakura
• Miyoshi Udon-noodle & Sake

How to reach: Tokyo Haneda Airport is the closest to Kamakura. You can find taxis from the airport to reach your destination.

13. Nagano – Great For Family

Image Credit: Nihonsuku for wikipedia

You cannot miss one of the best places to visit in Japan on your vacation which is the tropical retreat to beat the heat. Located in the heart of central Japan, Nagano is home to a lot of hidden gems like the Ninja Village for kids, Shiga Kogen Ski Resort, and Zenko-ji Temple which make it a perfect place for all the types of travellers. But, what makes it more exclusive is the pleasant breeze that surrounds the city throughout the year. You cannot miss one of the best places to visit in Japan on your vacation.

• Matsumoto Castle
• Visit the Zenko-ji Temple
• Enjoy winter sports at Shiga Kogen Heights Ski Resort
• Rejuvenate at Shirahone Onsen
• Hotel Metropolitan Nagano
• Hotel JAL City Nagano
• Hotel Mielparque Nagano
• Ramen Misoya
• Shinshu nagaya sakaba

How to reach: The nearest airport to Nagano is Matsumoto Airport which is 58 km away. Local buses and taxis are available that comfortably take you to your destinaion.

Suggested Read: Camping In Japan

14. Kawaguchi – Beautiful Landscapes

Japan’s most natural wonder! While this city in Japan is more famous for its Lake Kawaguchiko and the breathtaking views of Mt.Fuji in the front, it is equally known for being a paradisiacal gem for the culture vultures. The vibrant vibes and attractions of all types undoubtedly make it a great spot to tick off your bucket list.

• Lake Kawaguchiko
• Fujiten Snow Resort
• Oshino Hakkai
• Attend the Shibazakura Festival
• Paddle Around Lake Kawaguchiko
• Sip on Koshu Wine
• Smile Hotel Kawaguchi
• Wa Style Hotel Tokyo
• Kawaguchi Station Hotel
• Kaenzen Restaurant Kawaguchi
• Itsumo Korean Restaurant
• Pusan Korean Restaurant

How to reach: Tokyo Haneda Airport is the nearest airport. You can find taxis from the airport to reach your destination.

15. Takayama – Away From City Life

The town with an old-world charm! Nestled high up in the mountains of Gifu, Takayama is amongst the top 15 places to visit in Japan. If you’re looking for an ultimate retreat away from the bustling city life, this is where you need to go. With stunning attractions all around the city, you can experience the charm of old Japan quite easily here.

• Hida no Sato
• Takayama Festival Floats Exhibition Hall
• Sanmachi Suji District
• Go back in time at Takayama Jinya
• Stay in a farmhouse
• Attend the Takayama Festival
• Takayama Ouan
• Ryokan Tanabe
• Best Western Hotel Takayama
• Suzuya Restaurant

How to reach: The nearest airport to Takayama is Toyama Airport which is 57 km away. Local taxis and cabs are in abundance to drop you at your destination.

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16. Shibuya – A Bustling City

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It is said that Shibuya has an impressive 2.8 million footfall on a regular weekday. This is so because not only does this place have a spectacular crossing or as they say, ‘scramble crossing’ which is surely nothing less than a sight to behold, it also has multiple shopping places with really cool clothing brands of Tokyo. This makes Shibuya a top place for shopping in Japan . One of the main shopping places include the famous 109 shopping mall which is located in close proximity to the train station of Shibuya.

Top attractions:

• Meiji Jingu
• Yoyogi Park

Best things to do:

• Enjoy the nightlife at Roppongi
• Treat your shopping craving with Takeshita Street
• Witness mesmerizing views with Roppongi Hills
• Mustard Hotel Shibuya
• Shibuya Hotel En
• Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu
• Ichiran Shibuya
• Hakushu Teppanyaki

How to reach: Haneda Airport is conveniently located from the city. You can find taxis from the airport to reach your destination.

17. Naoshima – Lush-Green Island

A tiny island beautifully set amidst the Seto Inland Sea, Naoshima offers a perfect weekend escapade from Tokyo. There’s no shortage of art museums, sculptures and modern architecture woven into the various attractions of the island. Since it’s a long journey to the island, it is best if you plan to stay there overnight just to get enough of the bliss and peace that the place has to offer. Naoshima is also considered as one of the best destinations for camping in Japan . 

• Lee Ufan Museum
• Benesse House
• Naoshima Bath
• Get ready to witness the fine work of Tadao Ando at Chichu Art Museum
• Visit Kojin Island for some peace and quiet
• Witness the splendid nature’s charm in Labyrinth of Cherry Blossom
• SPARKY’s House
• Benesse House Hotel Park Building
• inn Hoshikuzu
• Cafe Salon Nakaoku

How to reach: The nearest airport to Naoshima is Takamatsu Airport which is 27 km away. Hire a cab, taxi or local bus to reach your destination.

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18. Asakusa – For Parties And More

Crowned as the cultural hub of Tokyo, Asakusa has a combination of things to do and multiple places to go to for different kinds of travellers. One of the good places to visit in Japan includes the Asahi Beer Hall which is like a gem for all party-goers who wish to try amazing booze in Japan. You can also try the Nakamise shopping block for a wild shopping spree in Japan.

• Asakusa Shrine
• Amuse Museum
• Hanayashiki Amusement Park
• Experience blessed vibes at Sensō-ji
• Have a unique gaming time at Escape Game Nazobako Tokyo
• Visit Kappabashi-dori for the various topnotch restaurants
• Asakusa View Hotel
• Red Planet Tokyo Asakusa
• Smile Hotel Asakusa
• Ramen-tei Asakusa

How to reach: The nearest airport to Asakusa is the Tokyo Haneda airport. Keisei Skyliner operates a train from Tokyo Narita to Asakusa hourly.

19. Akihabara – Perfect City Life

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Known as the ‘world’s geek capital’, Akihabara is famous for having a vast category of video and computer games on the planet. One of the main cafes of the like in this region is fantastical Akihabara, that will offer you a fun and engrossing gaming experience. Make sure you look out for the ones which are safe enough and not hoax in any form. You might not want to miss one of the best places to visit in Japan.

• Tokyo Anime Center
• Ryōgoku Edo Noren
• Ginza Line Crossing
• Shop at 2k540 Aki-Oka Artisan
• Witness endless lush greenery at Chidorigafuchi moat
• Rent a bike and tour the place on your own
• APA Hotel Akihabaraeki Denkigaiguchi
• Akihabara Washington Hotel
• Keikyu EX Inn Akihabara
• Kyushu Jangara Ramen Akihabara
• Tempura Hisago
• Tonkatsu Marugo

How to reach: The nearest airport to Asakusa is the Tokyo Haneda airport. You can find taxis from the airport to reach your destination.

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20. Odaiba – For A Rejuvenating Experience

Further ahead of Rainbow Bridge, the magnificent island of Odaiba has exquisite shopping centres which also boast of a Ferris wheel inside. What else can you wish for in Japan? Another reason for the fame of this place is the installation of a Gundam statue right outside of Diver City Mall, which literally seems to be alive! Having a theme park on board, this place is nothing less than a perfect spot for your vacation in Japan!

• Daikanransha Ferris wheel
• Seaside Park
• Yurikamome train
• Indulge in a fine sushi experience at the sushi bars
• Shop at Aqua City for a unique experience
• Spot a few fun robots at Miraikan science museum
• Hilton Tokyo Odaiba
• Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba
• Hotel Trusty Tokyo Bayside
• KUA`AINA Odaiba
• Gonpachi Odaiba
• Zest Cantina

How to reach: The nearest airport to Asakusa is the Tokyo Haneda airport. Local taxis and cabs are in abundance to drop you at your destination.

21. Kabukicho – Nightclubs And More

It is indeed not strange for a place to have several neon signs. So, when you plan to visit Kabukicho, don’t be surprised to spot a few too many here. One of the main red-light areas of Japan, this place is famous for various adult indulgences and has many pubs with the same themes for all tourists passing by. Make sure you visit Shinjuku for an extraordinary virtual gaming experience here.

• Robot Restaurant
• Shinjuku Golden Gai
• Museum of Haiku Literature
• Try various fun rides at VR Zone Shinjuku
• Watch a Tokyo Robot Evening Cabaret Show
• Get to know more about Haiku at Museum of Haiku Literature
• APA Hotel Higashi Shinjuku Kabukicho
• Shinjuku Granbell Hotel
• Oedo Ayatori

How to reach: The nearest airport is located in Tokyo i.e. the Tokyo International Airport, 18 miles from the city. Local buses and taxis are available that comfortably take you to your destination.

Suggested Read: 25 Things To Do In Japan

22. Ueno Park – For A Breath Of Fresh Air

Having an array of diverse options in one place, Ueno Park in Tokyo is the place to be if you wish to visit a prominent tourist destination in Japan. Whether you’re an history buff or not, an ancient black market like the one found in Ameya Yokocho will give you chills down the scene due to its authenticity and extraordinary fun vibes. Don’t forget to tour Yanaka if you are looking for places to explore in Japan with cultural and historic past.

• Tokyo National Museum
• Kaneiji Temple
• Try Hanami to respect and experience one of the traditions of Japan
• Visit National Museum of Nature and Science
• Experience bliss and serenity at Ueno Toshogu Shrine
• Candeo Hotels Ueno Koen
• APA Hotel Keisei Ueno-Ekimae
• Khana Pina Ueno
• Izuei Umekawa-tei

How to reach: Tokyo Haneda Airport is the closest to Ueno Park. Hire a cab to reach the park.

23. Yokohama – Charming And Vibrant

Having so many thrilling adventures and simply fun things to do, it is slightly sad that Yokohama doesn’t attract as many visitors as Tokyo, even though it is located quite close to Tokyo. Having a charming Minato Mirai waterfront on board, along with one of the biggest Chinatown regions, this place will surely surprise you more than you’d expect. Get ready to have a warm welcome from the locals here as it is weaved into their culture. This will sort out your query for where to visit in Japan for a romantic night!

• Yokohama Chinatown
• Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse
• Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise
• Visit Enoshima Island for some bliss
• Witness a traditional Japanese garden at Sankeien Garden
• Enjoy a fun outing at Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum
• The Yokohama Bay Hotel Tokyu
• InterContinental Yokohama Grand
• Yokohama Royal Park Hotel
• Charcoal Grill Green
• Azamino Ukai-tei

How to reach: The nearest international airport to Yokohama is Pohang Airport. Take a train from here or a cab if you want to reach Yokohama from here. 

Suggested Read: Exploring Japan In July

24. Nikko – Historically Rich

Image Credit: ArvidO for Pixabay

Called as one of the most important regions of Eastern Japan, Nikko is located in close proximity of Tochigi Prefecture and has various shrines to be visited by travellers. These include Kanmangafuchi Abyss and Toshogu Shrine. If you wish to try something different, pay a visit to Edo Wonderland which is a theme back takes you back to the ancient era. If you’re thinking, ‘places I should visit in Japan’, make sure you don’t miss out on this one!

• Kegon Falls
• Nikko Futarasan jinja
• Tobu World Square
• Dip your toes in the hot springs of Kinugawa Onsen
• Walk down the history with Rinnō-ji museum
• Go hiking through Senjōgahara
• Oku Nikko Hotel Shikisai
• Nikko Kanaya Hotel
• Nikko Park Lodge Mountain Side
• Hippari-Dako
• Gyoza no Umechan
• Meiji-no-Yakata

How to reach: Ibaraki and Fukushima Airport are the closest ones to the city. You can find taxis from the airport to reach your destination.

25. Tohoku – Relax In Nature

Wondering where to go in Japan? Also known as the hidden gem of Japan’s main island region, Tohoku has something for every kind of traveler planning to visit this place. But all that is just the tip of the iceberg, since the tourists from all over the world travel to this place exclusively for Aomori Nebuta Festival. Make sure to book in advance as the domestic travelers might make it a housefull!

• Lake Ogawara
• Hotto Plaza Suginoko Hot Spring
• Eboshi-dake
• Camp at Ogawarako Park
• Try a soothing nature walk at Komaki Onsen Shibusawa Park
• Indulge in a good dining experience at Onsen inn Matsuzono
• Hotel New Tohoku
• Almont Hotel Sendai
• Westin Hotel Sendai
• Restaurant Karinba
• Marche Restaurant
• Steak House Yoshino

How to reach: The best way to explore Tohoku is by buying a Japan Rail pass and visiting several attractions of the island.

Suggested Read: Japan In September

26. Kawagoe – Revisit The History

One of the surreal Japan points of interest , Kawagoe encompasses remnants of the ancient town from the Edo Period i.e. 1603-1867 and allows visitors to disapparate to the streets from past centuries. This tiny town is known as ‘Little Edo’ and is nothing less than a paradise for history buffs. Being one of the most important cities of trade, Kawagoe envelops an extremely rich history of Edo culture and architecture.

• Kitain Temple
• Warehouse District
• Honmaru Goten
• Candy Alley
• Visit the city museum to understand Kawagoe’s history
• Feel the essence of spirituality in Kitain Temple
• Explore the only remnants of Kawagoe’s palace from Edo Period
• Kawagoe Prince Hotel
• Kawagoe Daiichi Hotel
• Kawagoe Tobu Hotel
• Kawagoe Ichinoya Atre
• cafe torocco

How to reach: Kawagoe’s nearest airports are the Narita International Airport and Haneda Airport in Tokyo. Take an airport shuttle which takes about 2 hours to reach.

27. Nagoya – Traditionally Beautiful

Home to little hidden gems of Japan, Nagoya is one of the unique places to visit in Japan and is often treated as a layover en route to Kyoto from Tokyo. Being one of the biggest cities in Central Japan, Nagoya was the heart of castle towns in Japan during the Edo period. Nagoya Castle is undergoing reconstruction by using traditional methods at present and this gives the explorers and wanderers a perfect chance to be a part of the rebirth of one of the most important aspects of the ancient times.

• Nagoya Castle
• Atsuta Jingu
• Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens
• Tokugawa Garden
• Nagoya City Science Museum
• Stroll through the castle and take in the ancient vibes of this town
• Witness the serenity of Tokugawa Garden
• Get in touch with the scientific technologies at the science museum
• Explore the famous cherry blossoms and the stunning landscapes at Tsuruma Park
• Kyoya Ryokan Nagoya
• Hotel MyStays Nagoya Sakae
• Nagoya JR Gate Tower Hotel
• Atsuta Horaiken – Main Restaurant
• Midtown BBQ – Nagoya

How to reach: The Chūbu Centrair International Airport is the closest airport to the city. You can find taxis from the airport to reach your destination.

Suggested Read: Spring Flower Cruise In Japan

28. Kanazawa – For Food Culture 

Serving as the capital of Ishikawa Prefecture, Kanazawa blankets numerous historical attractions such as reconstructed residences and contemporary museums. One of the less popular tourist places in Japan , Kanazawa experiences less footfall, which makes this destination a perfect escape from the usually crowded world. Famous for its seafood, Kanazawa is a perfect jewel for those travelers who prefer taking the road less traveled.

• Kenroku-en Garden
• 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art
• Omicho Market
• Kanazawa Castle
• Devour the famous authentic seafood
• Take a tour of the castle and explore the hidden passageways and tunnels
• Witness the beauty of the garden with three landscapes
• Emblem Stay Kanazawa
• Hotel Mystays Premier Kanazawa
• Hotel Trusty Kanazawa Korinbo
• Sushi Ippei
• Pizzeria e Trattoria Da TAKE

How to reach: The nearest airport serving Kanazawa is in the city of Komatsu from where Japan Airlines manages a few airplanes.

29. Shirakawago – A Surreal Place

Shirakawago is a cute little village in the valley of Ono District in Japan and it looks right out of a fairytale. With ‘gassho-zukuri’ buildings built by the inhabitants themselves, this destination is an epitome of the traditional village life of Japan. Shirakawago is famous for its residences that are crafted to shrug off the heavy snow from the roofs during winter months. For explorers seeking to learn about the authenticity of the Japanese countryside, Shirakawago will leave no stone unturned to help you get a glimpse of the same. This is one of the best places to go in Japan while on a solo tour.

• Fairytale Houses
• Gassho-zukuri Minkaen
• Hakusan National Park
• Get hands-on experience about the traditional life of Japan
• Witness the soul-soothing landscapes of the village
• Camp at the Hakusan National Park and satiate your adventurous inner self
• Onyado Yuinosho
• Shirakawa-go Terrace Hostel

How to reach: The nearest airport is Fukushima Airport which is 21 km away. Local buses and taxis are available that comfortably take you to your destination.

Suggested Read: 15 Haunted Places In Japan

30. Shikoku – Where Serenity Welcomes You

Still wondering best places in Japan ? One of Japan’s four main islands, the charming island of Shikoku reflects the perfect blend of nature, tranquility, culture, and cuisine. Home to one of the oldest Japanese spa’s, Shikoku is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, pristine flowing rivers, and surreal Pacific coastline.

• Muroto-Misaki
• Ishizuchi-San
• Relax your mind and soul at the oldest spa in Japan
• Stroll along the pilgrimage route that connects around 88 temples on the island
• Hire a cycle and explore the city like a local
• Sunriver Oboke
• Kotohira Kadan
• Good food studio Cardamon

How to reach: You can travel by bus from Osaka Kansai to Shikoku via Takamatsu Chuo Interchange Bus Terminal in approximately 6 hours.

31. Nagasaki – A City With Sad History

Image Credit: Hruruk for Pixabay

This city of Japan too is one of the main ports lying in the southernmost region of the island. Just like the city of Hiroshima, Nagasaki is also known for its memorial of peace. You can also visit various temples as well as shrines here in order to be a witness to the cultural, religious, and historical aspects of Japan that are beautifully reflected. This is one of the most beautiful places in Japan .

• Nagasaki Dutch Slope
• Nagasaki Chinatown
• Kofukuji Temple
• Glover Garden
• Learn the historical facts at Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum
• Witness the majestic species of penguins at Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium
• Travel around the city in Nagasaki Electric Tramway
• Hotel Monterey Nagasaki
• Luke Plaza Hotel
• Casa Blanca Guesthouse
• Horaiken Bekkan
• Shippoku Hamakatsu

How to reach: Kumamoto and Fukuoka Airports are the closest ones. Hire a cab, taxi or local bus to reach your destination.

Suggested Read: 10 Tokyo Travel Tips

32. Kobe – Surprisingly Attractive 

This city lies between Mount Rokko and the sea. Although there’s a lot to see and experience here but Kobe is essentially known for its delicious beef. Therefore, ordering a burger in one of its restaurants or cafes is a must! The city comes in the way when you’re travelling from Osaka to Hiroshima via bullet train. If you want to witness the charm of this city, you should keep some extra time in hand when travelling between the two cities. This is among the best cities to visit in Japan !

• Wakamatsu Park
• Arima Onsen
• Kobe Oji Zoo
• Go for a leisure walk on Akashi Kaikyo Bridge
• Try the scrumptious local delicacies
• Go for the Mount Rokko trek
• Kobe Meriken Park Oriental Hotel
• Kobe Sannomiya Union Hotel
• Hotel Plaza Kobe
• Kobe Beef Steak Restaurant Royal Mouriya

How to reach: Kansai International Airport is just 70 km away from Kobe and its the nearest international airport. Local taxis and cabs are in abundance to drop you at your destination.

33. Fukuoka – Japan’s Oldest City

Image Credit: Fg2 for wikipedia

Your answer where to go in Japan to explore the rich culture is Fukuoka. Known to be the oldest city in the country of Japan, a visit to this place is a must. Located in the southernmost island of Kyushu, the city is comparatively in close proximity to the mainland of Asia. Moreover, the city of Fukuoka is considered to be an imperative port since more hundreds of years. The food culture and the relaxed vibe of this place will make your travel experience simply worthwhile. So, make sure that you include this place in your itinerary as it is one of the best Japan tourist attractions. 

• Fukuoka Castle
• Canal City Hakata
• Go for an evening walk at Yusentei Park
• Pay a visit to Hakozaki Shrine
• Go for a karaoke night
• Plaza Hotel Premier Fukuoka
• Plaza Hotel Tenjin
• Yoshizuka Unagi
• Beef Taigen
• Hyotan Sushi

How to reach: The Saga airport is the closest one and you can find taxis from the airport to reach your destination.

Suggested Read: 7 Best Gardens In Japan

34. Hitsujiyama Park – For An Enormous Sight

Cherry Blossom in Japan is an enormous sight to behold. The country is very famous for the spectacle and therefore visiting during this season is a must. Make Hitsujiyama Park as your next destination for a picturesque setting and get blossomed by the mesmerizing views. With a huge flora of over 400,000 trees of nine different varieties, it’s a perfect patchwork of red, white, pink, and violet. Also, the park is in close proximity to some fine dessert restaurants where you can taste the best Japanese desserts . Now, who would want to miss a visit to one of the famous places in Japan?

• Shibazakura Hill
• Catch the Chichibu Shibazakura Festival 
• Hike among the many trails 
• Buy festival snacks and souvenirs
• Hotel Route Inn Chichibu
• Araki Kosen Ryokan
• Guest House Nishiki

Places to eat: 

• Laboratorino
• Horumon Takasago

How to reach: From Ikebukuro, the Seibu Limited Express Chichibu train goes direct to Seibu-Chichibu station and the journey  takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes to complete.

35. Hakone – Views Of Mount Fuji

If you’re wondering where to go in Japan, then Hakone is a popular area with great views of Mt. Fuji. If the weather is on your side, it can be both a great day trip as well as an overnight destination. If you are looking for a break from Tokyo, then visit Hakone, which is also a great place for a solo trip in Japan . Get mesmerized by the surrounding beauty and get excited about your next getaway which includes all the top places to visit in Japan.

• Lake Ashinoko
• Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park
• Open Air Museum
• Enjoy multiple hot springs
• Ropeway to the boiling sulphur pits
• Crisscrossing Lake Ashi on a pirate ship
• Kinnotake Tonosawa
• Hakone Senkei
• Okudo-Saryo Rikyu-an inn
• Hakone Karaage Karatto
• Gora Brewery & Grill
• 808 Monsmare

How to reach: You can travel to Hakone via Odakyu Railway, Japan Railways or through the Odakyu Hakone Highway Bus.

Suggested Read: Robot-Run Hotel In Japan

Best Time To Visit Japan

To explore the major tourist attractions in Japan the best time to visit is from March to May during the late spring. You can also plan a visit during late autumn, especially in the months from September to November for the best experiences. The temperature remains mild during this time with very little rainfall.

Further Read: An Underwater Volcano Discovered In Japan

If the technological magic of the island nation couldn’t conquer your heart, we are sure that these best places to visit in Japan would! But which one would you visit first? Plan a  trip to Japan with TravelTriangle and have the best vacation! Make sure you pack a few extra clothes in case these places change your mind, and you decide to extend your amazing vacation in Japan!

For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here .

Cover Image Credit: Pxhere

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Japan

What is the smallest town in Japan?

The smallest city by population in Japan is Utashinai which is located in Sorachi Subprefecture of Hokkaido.

What’s the oldest city in Japan?

The oldest city in Japan is Fukuoka which also happens to be the closest city to Korea.

Are there still samurai in Japan?

Samurai were abolished as Japan modernized. Although, Kanazawa still houses a samurai district and is the only city to preserve the samurai world.

What are the famous places in Japan?

The most famous places to visit in Japan are the following: 1. Mount Fiji 2. Kinkaku-Ji 3. Fushimi Inari Taisha 4. Kiyomizu-Dera 5. Arashiyama 6. Tokyo Skytree 7. Osaka Castle 8. Tokyo Tower 9. Meiji Jingu

Can I get vegetarian food in Japan?

Yes, you can get vegetarian food in Japan. The following are the best vegetarian food that you can eat in Japan: 1. Mochi 2. Nasu or Eggplant 3. Kushimono 4. Pickles or Tsukemono 5. Daikon

Is there any temple in Japan?

Yes, there are many interesting temples in Japan but the best amongst them are: 1. Kiyomizu-dera 2. Todai-ji 3. Kinkaku-ji 4. Horyu-ji 5. Senso-ji 6. Toji 7. Rengeoin Sanjusangendo 8. Higashiyama Jisho-ji

Where can I go free in Tokyo?

The most popular free places in Tokyo are the following: 1. Hanabi 2. Matsuri 3. Suntory Musashino Brewery 4. Public Parks 5. The Imperial Palace East Garden 6. Meiji Shrine 7. Harajuku

What is the most beautiful place in Japan?

There are various tourist sites in Japan that are considered to be quite beautiful. Some of them are: 1. Shirakawa-go 2. The Blue Pond 3. Fushimi Inari Shrine 4. Chureito Pagoda 5. Kanazawa

Is it expensive in Japan?

Japan is essentially expensive when it comes to travelling around, staying at hotels, or eating out. However, if you want to avoid spending too much here, you can plan your stay at a hostel or eat at less expensive food joints.

How much money do you need per day in Japan?

On average, it will cost you over INR 7,000 per day when you’re travelling in Japan.

Do I need a visa for Japan from India?

Yes, you need to get a single entry visa to visit Japan which will be valid for up to 30 days Per Entry. To get the visa you can visit Japan embassy or consulate and submit all the required documents and fees related to the visa application.

What is the best month to go to Japan?

To get the best experience of a Japan tour, you must plan your trip between March and May or September and November as the weather remains pleasant adding extra fun to your trip to Japan.

What is Japan famous for?

Japan is famous for its rich cultural heritage, including traditional arts like tea ceremonies, ikebana (flower arranging), and origami (paper folding). It's renowned for its cutting-edge technology, producing innovative electronics, robotics, and automobiles. Additionally, Japan is known for its delicious cuisine, featuring sushi, ramen, and tempura, as well as its stunning cherry blossoms during springtime.

Which month is the cherry blossom in Japan?

Cherry blossoms in Japan typically bloom in April, marking the arrival of spring. This beautiful natural phenomenon, known as the 'sakura' season, is celebrated with hanami (flower viewing) gatherings and festivals across the country as people enjoy the fleeting beauty of the cherry blossoms.

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The 16 best underrated destinations in Japan

These are the places you should head on your second, third and fourth trips around Japan

Photograph: Shutterstock

A country of the kind of extremes that really, truly boggle the mind, in Japan you’ll find everything from rugged mountains and arid deserts to lush rainforests and vast, vast concrete cities. It’s somewhere you can visit countless times – that you can live in, even – and constantly find new stuff to see, do, eat and drink. 

In other words, Japan has an enormous number of fantastic destinations, but most visitors will simply pass over them on their first trip. So, beyond the country’s most obvious travel spots – the likes of Tokyo , Kyoto, Osaka , Hiroshima, Kanazawa, the Japanese Alps and so on – which others are most worth visiting?

I spent nearly three months travelling around Japan earlier this year to find out. Beyond the classics and those covered in our own two-week rail itinerary , these cities, towns and nature spots justify a second, third or fourth trip to Japan. Here are Japan's 16 most underrated destinations, worth heading back for again and again.

RECOMMENDED: ⛰️ The most beautiful places in Japan 📍 The best things to do in Japan 🏨 The best hotels in Japan 🏘️  The best Airbnbs in Japan

This article was written by Time Out Travel writer  Ed Cunningham . At Time Out, all of our  travel guides  are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines .

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Underrated destinations in Japan

1.  matsushima.

Sendai has long been one of Japan’s great unsung destinations, but we’re onto that – it’s in our two-week itinerary , after all. But Matsushima, just 20 minutes by train from Sendai, is worth a visit in its own right. Matsushima Bay’s 260-odd islands were named one of the ‘Three Views of Japan’ back in the 1600s – they’re still just as gorgeous today. Our advice? Get there at sunrise to see the islands sharpen into focus with the light, then spend a morning trekking around Oshima and Fukuura islands (crossing the legendarily lengthy Fukuurabashi footbridge), before getting a cruise in the afternoon. Or spread it all out, savouring each bit of the islands, their temples and beaches (as well as Matsushima’s accompanying resort town) over another day or two.

2.  Hakodate

Squeezed on two sides by the ocean, much of the northern city of Hakodate sits hunkered down from the cold, its buildings better resembling those of Iceland or Alaska than the rest of Japan. But this is a fabulously well-rounded city. Hakodate’s long history of foreign trade and influence has left fascinating marks on its local architecture (like the churches of Motomachi or the blustery, solitary Foreigners’ Cemetery). Not forgetting, of course, Mount Hakodate , widely remarked as one of Japan’s great night views. Get to the top well before sunset, walk around a bit (be sure to look out south, too), then get yourself a good spot to see how the city lights shimmer from above between two inkily dark swathes of ocean. Shin-Hakodate is also handily linked to Tokyo by a direct (albeit long, five-hour-plus) shinkansen.

3.  Toyama

Toyama is known as a great base from which to explore the western side of the Japanese Alps, offering easy access to Takayama, Tateyama, Shirakawa-go and Gokayama. And while it certainly is a solid base for those trips, the city itself often gets overlooked. From its awesome glass museum to its curiously empty stretches of beach, most unmissable is Amaharashi: a lone rock out in the middle of the sea with a singular tree on it, mighty snow-capped peaks soar in the background. I’d suggest staying out near Iwase on the coast – being so close to the beach is priceless, plus the tram to the centre of Toyama runs late into the night.

4.  Fukuoka

Whilst a massively popular destination for domestic and Asian travellers, Fukuoka is often simply too far from Tokyo and Osaka for most first-time visitors to Japan. But it’s absolutely worth the trek. A not-too-bad five-hour train from Tokyo (to Hakata), you’ll be greeted by a sunnier climate, laid-back vibes and a food scene that, even by Japanese standards, is a cut above. Home of tonkotsu ramen chain Ichiran and known for its buzzy yatai street food stalls, Fukuoka is such a rampant foodie city that you’ll struggle not to eat exquisite nosh at every turn. Don’t miss out on its party culture, either: there are few better ways to follow-up some grub at a yatai than with drinks and live music on one of the city’s bridges.

5.  Shizuoka

Shizuoka prefecture is primely positioned for two of Japan’s most revered culinary assets. Home to Japan’s biggest and deepest fishing ports, it’s a fish-lover’s heaven, but the wider prefecture is also known for its green tea – 40 percent of the country’s tea is grown here. All of which makes Shizuoka city one of the finest places in the country to tuck into some fresh fish and sip some green stuff. But that isn’t all. Also home to the burial place of legendary shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu, climb (or get the cable car) over 1,000 steps up Mount Kunozan and take in endless views of the Pacific, before rambling down and walking the coastal road north to Miho no Matsubara, a beachside pine forest and one of the finest spots to view Mount Fuji in all its conical might.

6.  Tottori

Sand dunes? In Japan? You bet. Nine miles long and about a mile-and-a-half wide, Tottori’s white, pristine sand dunes stretch all the way into the city centre and make it seem more Saharan than Japanese – and they’re a major part of the city’s appeal. There’s even camels and an entire museum here dedicated to sand sculptures ( The Sand Museum ), which is the world’s only permanent sand art space. Done with the sand? Don’t fear. Tottori has plenty more to see and do, much of which focuses on sites of natural beauty like Mt Daisen (and its temple, Daisenji), the rugged Uradome coastline and the vast Hanakairo flower park.  

7.  Kobe

There’s so much more to Kobe than wagyu and its infamous 1995 earthquake – though both, as you can imagine, have come to define this city on the Seto Inland Sea. Squeezed between mountains and sea, there’s something in Kobe for everyone. From museums dedicated to traditional woodcraft and architectural maestro Tadao Ando to vast flower gardens, winding waterfall trails and one of Japan’s most bustling Chinatowns, the marina has a peaceful, spacious Mediterranean sort of feel. Add to all that the thriving music scene, marvellous shopping and diverse food offerings of Sannomiya, Kobe’s charms are endless.

8.  Biwa-ko

Japan’s largest freshwater lake, the Biwa-ko (or ‘Lake Biwa’) is just 15 minutes’ train north of Kyoto. About 64 kilometres long, it gets its name for looking a little like a ‘biwa’ – a traditional Japanese instrument that’s a bit like a guitar – and it’s been a centre of trade and commerce for centuries. These days the Biwa-ko is best known for recreation: plenty of water-sports and other events take place on the lake and its surrounding beaches. Spend a few days getting trains around the lake, taking in its scenic beauty and stopping off at places like Hieizan Sakamoto (where you can get a cable car up to Mount Hiei, one of the most important spots in Japanese Buddhism), Omi Hachiman (known for its traditional canals), Hikone (and its preserved castle), Omi Takashima (with its floating torii gate), Omi Maiko (for its beaches) and Otsu (the buzzing capital of Shiga prefecture).

9.  Sapporo

The home of Sapporo beer (obvs), a mesmerising annual Snow Festival and more winter sports than you ever knew existed, Sapporo is the biggest city on Hokkaido and the island’s cultural, economic and political powerhouse. Not yet linked by Shinkansen (that’s all set for 2030), it’s easily reached by internal flight. Most of all, however, it’s a fab city to really get to grips with Hokkaido’s regional identity, from its history and food to its parks and architecture. Be sure to check out the Sapporo Clock Tower (the oldest of its kind in Japan) for an endearingly thorough – and totally free – tour detailing the history of the building. Oh, and make sure to visit in the snow heights of winter. That’s when this city really comes into its own.

10.  Naha

A three-hour flight from Tokyo , the islands of Okinawa are far closer to Taiwan than Japan and boast a totally different climate, namely that of a tropical island. The culture of the local Ryukyu people is distinctly different from the rest of Japan, too – and Naha, the biggest city in Okinawa, is a great place to get to grips with it all. Be sure to check out Okinawa’s different styles of temples, shrines and castles (especially Shuri Castle), as well as try out some Okinawan specialities like Orion beer and Blue Seal ice cream. The sweeping, pristine tropical beaches should be the main priority here – they’re the reason most domestic travellers love heading down to Okinawa for a beach vacay.

11.  Kagoshima

The ‘ Naples of Japan’ sits, just like its Italian counterpart, in the ashy shadow of a massive smoking mount. Japan’s most active volcano Sakurajima lies just across the bay from Kagoshima – but, much like Vesuvius, it’s totally safe to visit. Getting a short ferry across the bay and hiking through the lush volcanic vegetation is one of visitors’ most popular things to do. Kagoshima itself is renowned for its hot, dry climate and palm tree-lined streets, as well as for being a base for trips out to hiking spot Yakushima island. You won’t find a better spot to take in a full view of Sakurajima billowing smoke over the city than Shiroyama Park, with bustling Kagoshima in the foreground and the ash-belching giant in the distance.

12.  Nagasaki

Likely known outside Japan as the second target of the US atom bomb campaigns in the Second World War, it’s difficult to emphasise just how much more there is to Nagasaki than its atomic victimhood (though the Peace Park, Peace Memorial Hall and Atomic Bomb Museum are just as harrowing, informative and persuasive as their equivalents in Hiroshima). A harbour city sprawled between dense, green valleys, Nagasaki has lots of small, winding streets across steep hills. As the site that foreign missionaries first settled in Japan, it’s also got plenty of non-atom-bomb history, as well as an energetic, fabulously gaudy entertainment district and, in Mount Inasa, another of Japan’s most spectacular night-time views. On top of all that, Nagasaki is also the access point for trips to the abandoned island of Gunkanjima and boasts the country’s newest (and most swish) bullet train route.

13.  Yokohama

There’s so much to cram into Tokyo and its most popular day trips (Kamakura, Takao and so on) that few international visitors manage a visit to Yokohama, which is Japan’s second-largest city and within very, very easy reach of the capital. More than just an industrial powerhouse, Yokohama is home to the largest of Japan’s Chinatowns (the others being in Kobe and Nagasaki), a sprawling waterfront, the world’s biggest clock (which is also a Ferris wheel, Cosmo Clock 21) and not one but two museums all about ramen. Both the Cupnoodles Museum (which is about instant ramen) and the Ramen Museum (about the classic stuff and all its varieties) are musts for lovers of slurpy noodles ‘n’ soup.

14.  Wakayama

By Wakayama , we’re talking about the prefecture and not just its capital city. This place is all about its natural beauty, much of which revolves around the ancient Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes which sprawl across the Kii Peninsula. Whether you attempt the route in one go (taking approx four-and-a-half days) or do small sections, expect to stumble across temples, shrines, onsens, ryokans, waterfalls and viewpoints. And Wakayama’s charms extend far beyond the Kumano Kodo: there’s also a huge range of adventure activities throughout the prefecture, from kayaking to caving, plus it boasts some of the clearest, least polluted (and so best stargazing) skies in all of Japan.

15.  Takamatsu

Despite being the smallest of Japan’s four main islands, Shikoku is still huge – and much of it has nowhere near the same amount of traveller-friendly infrastructure as Japan’s more popular tourist spots. The island’s features range massively, from some of Japan’s most industrialised areas to its most unspoiled and isolated areas of natural beauty like mountains and beaches. The port city of Takamatsu is a key entry point for those wanting to explore Shikoku’s interior, ideal for launching into national parks and the island’s 88-site traditional pilgrimage. But Takamatsu itself shouldn’t be ignored. Don’t miss the castle – known for its seawater moats – nor the Ritsurin-koen, one of the most immaculately-kept traditional gardens in the country.

16.  Sado

Sitting two-and-a-half hours’ ferry from Niigata (which itself sits a couple of hours northwest of Tokyo by Shinkansen), the island of Sado offers spectacular natural sights, carefully preserved culture and fascinating history in spades. Japan’s sixth-largest island was historically a place of exile for prominent political outcasts, though it’s also known for its gold mines (Sado kinzan), the five interlinked bays of Senkakuwan and for being wedged between two mountain ranges. While much of Japan is primed for a road trip, that’s especially the case with Sado. There are few better ways to take in the entirety of this island than routes such as the Osado Skyline, which rises up 900 metres from sea level and features views of everything from mountains and plains to forests.

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Top 10 Things to Do in Japan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Nat Geo Expeditions

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

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

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

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• PEOPLE AND CULTURE

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Tokyo Bucket List: 50+ Top Things To Do in Japan’s Coolest City

Tokyo can never get boring—it has a plethora of bucket list worthy things to do and fun attractions to visit. While I was in Japan’s top city, I ate beef that was creatively shaped like a brain, served to me inside of my private jail cell by women dressed in pink nurses’ outfits. I drank my coffee next to a dozen felines at a quirky cat café, confirming my preference for dogs. And I found out exactly what all the buttons on the Japanese toilet do (enjoying some outcomes much more than others).

There are not many places that would provide such peculiar and cool forms of entertainment, but Tokyo is a city of many colorful facets; a mix of avant-garde and traditional. It is a town where the illuminated skyscrapers cohabitate with historic temples, unusual anime shops and cherry blossom lined streets. It is a cool destination where your itinerary can include attending a lively tuna auction hours before daybreak, nightlife that can include eating skewers of yakitori in the seedy Piss Alley or scrambling across one of the biggest intersections in the world with hundreds of others.

In other words the city is freaking fabulous and here are the best things to do in Tokyo:

Best Things To Do, Places to Visit and Attractions in Tokyo, Japan

1. buy some vinyl at hmv records.

Tokyo is a paradise for Vinyl Lovers! They have more record shops than any other city in the world with new collections brought in every month. HMV Records is a huge store filled with Vinyl Records. We recommend you bring along plenty of cash because you will surely get lost amidst aisles of wonder records making you nostalgic and rekindling your passion for music. This vast second-hand record shop has plenty of items and genres for music lovers. They also have a handful of cassettes with a special corner for them along with CDs.

2. Experience TeamLab Borderless

It’s hard to explain TeamLab Borderless , you really have to experience it. The digital art museum is an immersive world where the artwork has no boundaries. There is no map or ‘right way to go’, you move freely from room to room of three-dimensional 10,000 square meter building exploring and discovering. You will find things like the Athletic Forest that helps you think of the world three-dimensionally and, the most instagrammed room, the forest of lamps where hundreds hang from the ceilings.

3. Watch Wrestling Practice at a Sumo Stable

You can’t fully understand the intensity of the sumo wrestling sport unless you are up close and personal at an intense morning practice session to witness the panting, grunting and dripping sweat. The practices at the sumo wrestling stable are not attractions created for tourists—the athletes are not putting on a show for you—they are in serious training and need to be shown respect while you are there.

Though there are over 40 training stables, most in the Ryogoku district, only a few accept visitors. The most common are Kasugano Beya , Takasago Beya and Musashigawa Beya . Make sure to call ahead to confirm that they will be having practice on the day you arrive! Or for an even easier option just book a Morning Sumo Training tour, or take a peek at this list of sumo related experience that you can quickly book online.

If you don’t speak Japanese seeing a practice on your own may be a little tricky (I went to Hakkaku Sumo Stable and needed a translator). But, it was worth the effort because seeing this Japanese tradition was definitely one of the Top 10 things I did in Tokyo!

4. See a Professional Sumo Match

Sumo is the world famous Japanese style wrestling match which began in ancient times as a ritual to entertain the Shinto deities. And after you’ve seen them practice at the sumo stable, witness the traditional sport live and in all its glory!  During the tournament months (January, May and September) you can get tickets for each day of the 15-day tournaments, or just one. I highly recommend the ringside seats which is the closest seating available to the wrestling ring with cushions on the floor.

It’s possible to find a few seats available on tournament day, but it’s best to get them in advance. You can see upcoming tournaments and book tickets here.

5. Make a Stop at Meiji Shrine

The historical significance of the Meiji Shrine cannot be overstated. The shrine was made for the first emperor of modern Japan – Emperor Meiji. You enter this austere and mystical place through a 40-foot high tori gate and find yourself surrounded by a 200-acre park with a 100,000 trees. Wow!

The cleansing station has a communal water tank for purification of the hand and mouth before offering prayers. You can also write your wishes and tie them up to the prayer wall. The Meiji Jingu Treasure House is at the northern end of the shrine where you will find several personal belongings of the Emperor, as well as a beautiful Inner Garden with blooming flowers and a rustic well.

For a more thorough experience take the Meiji Shrine Walking Tour with a local guide.

6. Attend a Baseball Game

The game of baseball isn’t just one of America’s favorite pastime, the Japanese are passionate about it too. Things are just done a bit differently when you attend a baseball game in Japan , like waving umbrellas for home runs, snacking on edamame and having cheerleaders. Though the Yomiuri Giants at the Tokyo Dome draw larger crowds, you can also see the Tokyo Swallows play at the outdoor Jingu Stadium .

It may be possible to snag some tickets on the day of the game, but not guaranteed! So, if seeing a Japanese baseball game is high on your things to do list then buy tickets to a game online .

7. Go to Dinner at a Ninja Restaurant

At Ninja Shinjuku a small robot in the corner starts to speak to you as a sliding door opens and leads you down a narrow hallway. Shoji doors open and lead you to a small room where dinner is served. This is not the kitschy place where spry ninjas pop down from the ceiling and serve mediocre food, it’s more of a molecular gastronomy experience where smoke billows out of a box to uncover a beautifully executed salad and Kobe beef is served with a trio of unique dipping sauces.

Dessert was served inside a basement room, along with a “ninja show” which really was more like a magic show—impressive none the less. But what was even more impressive was the bonsai tree dessert whose branches needed to be trimmed with scissors in order to eaten and the base was a sweet crumb that looked just like dirt. Genius.

8. Go to the Intermediatheque Museum

The Intermediatheque (IMT) Museum is a psychedelic world of its own. Located in the Kitte Marunouchi building near the Tokyo Station, you’ll find yourself lost amidst the ancient wonders and treasures left behind for us by extinct civilizations. From early steam engines to Egyptian mummies, this kaleidoscopic wonderland has everything preserved and on display. Get inspired by the tribal art or see your kids’ faces light up by the wildlife specimens and the 19 th century raconteurs of flora and fauna.

Allow yourself at least half a day to absorb the richness and literary brilliance of this place!

9. Play a Game of Pachinko

Pachinko is a Japanese arcade game where the object is to fire balls that will then fall through a maze of metal pins. Try to capture as many balls as possible into the center hole. If you walk through the Shinjuku district, you won’t be able to miss the Pachinko Parlors with their flashing neon and clinking of the balls. It can be an addictive, yet fun thing to do in Tokyo!

Understanding the game of Pachinko can be tricky without lessons or guidance from someone who knows the in-and-outs. You can book the Original Japanese Entertainment tour and you’ll get a half hour lesson along with playing time.

10. Spend the Night in the Hello Kitty Room

You don’t need to be a diehard Hello Kitty fan to enjoy this must see (and sleep in) room. Slink over to Shinjuku and spend the night in the fun Hello Kitty Room at Keio Plaza Hotel. The room is decked out in the cats signature decor and you can even get yourself breakfast with kitty shaped/stamped food.

11. Walk Across Shibuya Crossing

The iconic Shibuya Crossing is on most visitors “things to do in Tokyo” attraction itinerary because it is dubbed as the busiest intersection in the world, which means it won’t be difficult to find yourself there when it’s insanely packed. While crowds may not be something you wish for your everyday life, trust me, you’ll want participate in the organized chaos that ensues when hundreds of people walk across the intersection at once.

For a different perspective, watch the crossing from the 2nd-story window of the Starbucks on the North side or from the 47th floor of Shibuya Scramble Square building. For an even more unique bucket list experience, walk Shibuya crossing in a kimono . Don’t forget to check out the famous Hachiko Statue right between the intersection and Shibuya Station before you set on your way! And perhaps commit yourself to some window shopping at Shibuya’s massive record stores after?

If you want to experience more in the area the Shibuya & Harajuku Hidden Gems tour would be a good choice!

12. Try Batto, the ‘Art of Swordsmanship’

Batto, the art of swordsmanship, is a discipline that very few have mastered, but at HiSUi Tokyo you will be one step closer as you take their comprehensive course with a real katana (a long, single-edged sword used by samurai). These techniques and swords were vital in order for the samurai to protect the community and reigning lords.

13. Get the View at Shibuya Sky

Make your way to the tall Shibuya Scramble Square building and climb to the 47th floor, to the Shibuya Sky . This rooftop observatory will get you a stunning 360-degree panoramic view of the city. You can even see the chaos of the famous Shibuya Crossing from way up there.

14. Unleash Your Inner Anime Fan!

Japan is the birthplace of anime, the Japanese term for animation, so while you’re there make the most of it! If you’re an anime fan then there are so many shops that sell anime products, like Mandarake in Shibuya, as well as themed cafes ( here are 8 good ones! ) for you to explore. Even if you’re not a fan then it is still amazing to go and immerse yourself in the culture.

For the ultimate experience, book the Akihabara Anime & Gaming Adventure Tour , that will take you to a retro video game store, to a maid cafe and shopping at an anime store!

15. Stroll Through Yoyogi Park

Taking a walk through Yoyogi Park is a grand experience all on its own. You’ll be setting foot on the ground which represents the ancient facets of Japan, as it was once a site of military barracks, and even served as an Olympics Gymnasium in 1964. The park is divided in two parts by a wide road, one side of which is a dense forest area where people usually take their strolls and enjoy the natural beauty of the place, have picnics and barbecues. The latter has a stadium and an outdoor stage that hold exclusive events and food festivals.

If you are a garden lover then don’t miss the 6-hour private Japanese Garden Tour that will take you on your choice of gardens!

16. Attend a Kabuki Theater Show

Kabuki is a unique form of Japanese theater where they combine song, mime, dance, costume design and elaborate makeup that is typically performed solely by men. At Kabuki-za you can buy Single Act tickets just to get an introduction to the style of theater, or opt for the whole show. It’s easy to get your tickets online here .

Hint: before going to the Kabuki show learn more about the tradition with a guided tour of Kabuki-za Gallery .

17. Get a Photo of the Giant Godzilla Head

Godzilla is thankfully not wreaking havoc on the streets of Tokyo anymore, but you can still see him peeking through the 8 th floor of Hotel Gracery in the Toho Building. The Godzilla Head is a popular attraction in Shinjuku with its giant 39-foot reptilian head, piercing eyes and sharp pointy teeth! You can see him from the busy street 130-feet below, or take the elevator up to get a closer peek. Keep your eyes open for the new Godzilla Viewing Room coming soon.

If you’re interested in exploring more of the area surrounding the Godzilla Head, then consider taking a private tour of Shinjuku’s Top Sites .

18. Learn About the History at Edo-Tokyo Museum

Edo is Tokyo’s old name, and the Edo-Tokyo Museum conserves the historical culture and traditions of the city. It almost felt as if I was approaching a UFO when walking towards the building, but then I learnt that the architecture was inspired by the old Tokyo warehouse raised on stilts—it has an ultramodern feel to it with a lot of character.

During my 2-hour tour, I marveled at the handcrafted figurines with unique clothing and expressions, the massive cavern room, the replica of Nihonbashi Bridge, recreations of houses and transports of the ancient people, market areas and stage settings of theatrical performances. The place will be your guide to understanding how Tokyo evolved to be one of the most influential cities of the world.

The Sumida Walking Tour will take to on a guided tour of the Edo Museum, as well as the museum of the famous artist Katsushika Hokusa.

19. Sing Karaoke

What to do in Tokyo for nightlife? Karaoke, of course. It is a big part of their culture and a huge attraction tourists as well as locals. Tokyo has plenty of fun (& sometimes weird) Karaoke bars where you can belt out a few tunes. One of the more well-known is Karaoke Kan , which was the location for Bill Murray’s singing session in the movie Lost in Translation. But, there are other clubs as well, and you can find some top ones here: 10 of the Best Bars in Tokyo for Karaoke and Other Weird Stuff .

20. See the Tokyo Tower at Night

The Tokyo Tower is the second tallest architectural wonder of Japan. Standing at a height of 1092 feet, the tower glimmers with lights and serves as one of the symbolic features of the city. It is a true marvel to see at the night time, especially because the  illumination themes change according to seasons and occasions. You can see it from afar ( here are the best place to do it ) or you can also go up to the special observation deck and get a night time view of the city ( book your ticket here ). It is a sight you’ll never forget!

21. Get an Umbrella at Cool Magic SHU’s Umbrella Shop

A store solely dedicated to umbrellas? Yep, that’s exactly what Cool Magic Shu’s is. It may take you hours of perusing the aisles to find your perfectly designed rain protection, but it will be fun doing it!

22. Use all the Buttons on a Japanese Toilet

I’m sure your asking yourself, “can a toilet really be worthy of a spot on your Tokyo Things to Do in Tokyo Bucket List “? Yes, in this case it can. A Japanese commode isn’t any ordinary potty, it’s like a spa for your private parts.

Not only will your butt be warm with their seated heats, but they can also clean your derrière with a hot stream of water. Plus, many public restroom stalls will play the sounds of chirping birds to mask any other noises that may be happening! Luckily, you can experience these toilets at many restaurants, hotels and public attractions.

23. Visit the Red & White Cats at Gotokuji Temple

The Gotokuji Temple is a place that comes with a highly engaging, legendary tale of the maneki neko–the beckoning cats. They are believed to bring good luck and are a symbolic figure of the temple. The visitors make offerings and prayers in front of thousands of red and white cat statues. The kitties are all wearing a red collar with a hanging golden bell and a paw raised in the air to bring you good fortune! You’ll also find cat art in the neighborhood leading up to the temple—a treat for all the cat lovers out there.

24. Do a Kimono Fitting

Wearing a kimono is a large part of the Japanese culture . A kimono is a traditional Japanese garment that is typically worn by women on special occasions. There are few places to be fitted for a kimono while traveling to Tokyo, but you can find a couple. My personal tour guide, Tomomi, offers private fittings in her home (this is my story about it: Do a Kimono Fitting in Tokyo, Japan ), whereas you can book one of these top tours:

• Kimono Makeover with Photoshoot Tour
• Wear a Kimono on the Streets of Asakusa
• Wear a Kimono at a traditional house in the Bonsai Museum

25. Visit the Imperial Palace

The Imperial Palace is the place of residence of Japan’s Imperial family. It has a beautiful park area surrounded by grand stone walls and moats in the center of Tokyo. The main Palace area is open only on the New Year’s Greeting Event on January 2nd and the Emperor’s Birthday on the 23rd of December, but the palace exterior grounds are open for public throughout the year.

There are two bridges that can be viewed right from the Kokyo Gaien plaza that’s right out from the the palace and the Imperial Palace East Gardens are amongst the best places for a stroll.

The Imperial Palace Walking Tour will give you a deeper look into palace with a licensed guide.

26. Buy a Japanese Knife

Japanese knives are known to be some of the best in the world due to there keen edges, quality of steel and made-by-hand techniques. Being a restaurateur, I could not leave Tokyo without bringing one home with me!

Though I bought mine at Masahisa , there are plenty of other reputable knife shops around town. You can try walking down Kappabashi Street , the kitchen district. Not only will you find plenty of knife shops, but you will also find every kitchen product imaginable, including plastic food samples used as window displays by many restaurants.

27. Walk Across the Rainbow Bridge

The iconic Rainbow Bridge of Japan got its name because in the month December it’s lit up like a rainbow. The suspension bridge has a pedestrian pathway on both its north and south ends. It is free to take a walk across and takes about 25 minutes on foot, but you can also go on a bicycle.

The north route has breathtaking views of the Tokyo Tower along with stunning skyscrapers around Roppongi and Toranomon, Toyosu and the Shiodome area. The south route offers views of Odaiba as well as the neighboring islands and the Shinagawa area.

28. Relax at an Onsen

Relaxing in a hot springs bath, an onsen, is a top Japanese tradition that you don’t want to miss. There are plenty of them in Tokyo (you can see some of the best ones here ), but Ooedo Onsen Monogatari is a popular one because it’s an onsen theme park where you can soak in one of their baths, get your fortune told and/or have a foot massage. There’s plenty of entertainment on the premises to keep you occupied for at least an afternoon.

29. Go to Tokyo Disneyland

Welcome to the happiest place in the world— Disneyland Tokyo edition! It is highly recommended that you spend at least 2 days here to enjoy all the wonderful attractions and food. There are several fun attractions unique to Tokyo Disneyland, like Dream Lights with a magical nighttime light parade (Minnie oh! Minnie!), the interactive Monster’s Inc. Ride & Go Seek and Western River Railroad to name a few.

You can book admission tickets and transfers here . Also consider splurging a little by staying at the Tokyo Disneyland Hotel which is at a short walk from the theme park and comes with many perks.

30. Visit 21_21 DESIGN SIGHT

If you are a fan of unique design then stopping at the 21_21 DESIGN SIGHT  is a must! This contemporary design exhibition hall is the brain child of fashion designer Issey Miyake and architect Tadao Ando. It’s located in Tokyo’s midtown, an upscale section in the Roppongi area of the city.

The beauty of this places starts with the exterior architecture and moves about through the different gallery spaces. The artwork changes with some of the themes being things like “Secret Source of Inspiration: Designers’ Hidden Sketches and Mockups” and “Chocolate” that focused on the unique social attributes related to chocolate.

During my visit they had a beautiful chair exhibit, each designed by current and former members of the Japan Design Committee. The best part was that you were encouraged to sit in them all!

31. Visit the Meguro Parasitological Museum

The Meguro Parasitological Museum is one of a kind, and the only one in existence that displays the weirdly fascinating collection from the world of parasites! It is a unique experience that you’ll carry with you all your life, although if parasites make you feel squeamish, you may need to cover your eyes because the skin crawling museum has parasites from all facets of life on display in hundreds of jars. Even though it sounds gross, you’re bound to be intrigued by its bizarreness, and it may even end up being top of your favorite thing to do in Tokyo!

32. Go to a Maid Cafe

Maid cafés are all the buzz in Japan! They are fun cosplay restaurants where waitresses are dressed up as working maids to serve the customers as a master in a private home rather than as a café patron. The key word is “iyashi” that translates into “to be soothed”.

Your quintessential Victorian maid fantasy will come to life with spa like services, scrumptious food along with relaxing classical music while you are enveloped by verdurous greenery! There are numerous maid cafés in Tokyo (you can see some of the top ones here ), each offering a unique service with the cutest undertones like chanting “moe moe kyun” to make your drinks taste better or writing over your food with ketchup! It is definitely something to look out for.

If you don’t want to navigate a maid cafe on your own, you can book one of these tours:

• Akihabara Anime & Gaming Adventure Tour
• Akihabara Tour with Your Own Personal Maid!

33. Go to a Cat Cafe

Tokyo is filled with weird things to do and going to a cat cafe ranks really high on that list. Calico Cat Cafe in Shinjuku is an attraction that gives you the opportunity to play with unique feline breeds while drinking a cup of coffee. So odd that it’s definitely worth a spot on your things to do in Tokyo bucket list itinerary. If you prefer, you can also play with cute hedgehogs in Roppongi !

34. Dine in a Jail Cell

Most people would avoid (at all costs) dining in a jail cell, but Alcatraz ER will give you an offbeat dining experience of a lifetime. This restaurant is designed as a jail and each cell or prison represents a dining area for a group. Staff that are well dressed in nurse uniforms tend to the call of the bang of a metal rod against the cells bars.

Brave diners (like myself!) will nosh on things like blue curry served in a urine tin or drink cocktails out of dummy’s head. Can you ever imagine eating sausage in the shape of bowel movement; well this place has more quirkiness to offer than you can imagine. A must have nightlife experience for your Tokyo itinerary even you prefer not to visit again.

35. Go to Yasukuni Shrine

The Yasukuni Shrine is the most interesting and possibly the most controversial place in Japan. Founded in 1869, this place is said to hold 2.5 million shrines! It was made in honor of the men who lost their lives in the Boshin War and has expanded to include war martyrs since then.

The entrance of the shrine is made from a massive gray metal Daicihi Torii standing at a height of 72 feet and giving it an eerie feel. The arch then gets smaller with a Daini Torii which is the second shrine gate, and the Shinmon gate which leads into the area of shrine. The Chumon Torrii then leads into the main hall. Photography isn’t allowed but there is a lot to take in with rich cultural significance and a war museum.

36. See a Show at the Robot Restaurant

From the moment you enter The Robot Restaurant lounge to the time you depart, you will feel like you are diving into the colors of neon that bounce off the mirrors. There are dramatic fights between bikini clad girls riding atop robots, the sound of the cast playing the charismatic drums and visitors are given a glow-stick to cheer during all the action.

This place is more dedicated to a flashy show than on food, but you can order a sushi bento box or caramel popcorn to dine on while you are entertained. Plus, flowing beer and a few drinks are available, but the core attraction is the captivating chaos of the show.

Though you can buy tickets at the door, you can get them at a discount by booking in advanced at Voyagin .

37. Indulge in a Massive Matcha Dessert

Offbeat food in Tokyo is not limited to main meals, but extends to sweet desserts too, and some of the most popular is made from matcha, a green tea. Desserts like ice-cream, mousse, cream, jelly and many more variations are available. But, I say if you are going to do it go big! I ordered this this quadruple layered matcha gateaux chocolate parfait that was topped with an entire piece of cake! Yes, I ate the whole thing! No shame.

The most popular hot spots serving these delectable and divine tasting desserts are Kinozen , Marunouchi Café, Nana’s Green Tea (that’s where I ate) and many more.

38. Attend a Tuna Auction

You will need to wake up really early for a chance to go to the famous tuna auction at Tsukiji Fish Market (folks start lining up before 4am). But, it will be worth getting an insiders view of the buyers checking the fish quality and bidding for their prize one. After, explore Tsukiji’s inner and outer market where you can watch them expertly cut the large tunas they just purchased.

You can go on your own or book a tour:

• Tsukiji and Toyosu Fish Market and Tuna Auction Tour
• Tsu kiji Tuna Auction Tour With a Guide During the Night
• Explore Tsukiji Fish Market and Make Sushi and Sashimi

39. Participate in a Traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony

Happo-en Japanese Garden sits in Shirokanedai district of Tokyo and is an exquisite example of natural beauty with its ancient bonsai, koi pond and blanket of cherry blossoms in the Springtime. Not only is it a beautiful representation of a Japanese garden, but you can schedule to participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony where you will be drinking Matcha in their wooden Muan tea house.

If you want to combine a tea ceremony with street food with a typical “Teishoku” lunch then the Old Town Tokyo Food Tour would be a perfect fit.

40. Bar Hop in Golden Gai

What’s a trip to Tokyo without a little nightlife? Golden Gai is a neighborhood in the Shinjuku ward of Tokyo that squeezes in over 200 miniature bars into a network of six narrow alleys, made only for pedestrians. Enjoy the unique Japanese nightlife by bar hopping in the section of town where most of the drinking holes only seat 8-12 people total. Ready to go? Get the location here or just book one of these top rated tours:

• Shinjuku: Golden Gai Food Tour
• Kabukicho and Shinjuku Golden Gai Night Tour

Want to read more about bar hopping in Golden Gai? See this article— Shinjuku Nightlife: A Guide to Tokyo’s Best Golden Gai Bars .

41. Learn to Make Classic Japanese Ramen at Chagohan

You can eat ramen all over the city, but how about learning to make it? At Chagohan you can learn this skill (and dine on it afterwards!). FYI: This isn’t the only ramen cooking class, there are re plenty of others and you can see a list at Cookly .

If just sampling ramen is more your thing, then book the Ramen Tasting Tour with Local Ramen Guru that will have you eating 6 mini bowls at 3 shops in 3 districts!

42. Eat at the Kill Bill Inspiration Restaurant

Gonpachi restaurant, in the Roppongi district of Tokyo, is known as being the inspiration for the fight scene from the Kill Bil l movie and it’s easy to spot the similarities. Not only can you enjoy the interior design, but you can also indulge in a bowl of Soba.

43. Make Your Own Matcha at the Urasando Garden Mini-Mall

The Urasando Garden is a collection of shops within a traditional Japanese–style house giving you the ultimate kick of nostalgia as soon as you enter. It gets its name from its unique location at the back street of Omotesando, hence the name Urasando meaning “ura” – back and “omote” – front.

There are many fun things to do and shops to explore, but what makes the best visit is being able to make your own matcha. You can choose your own cup and blend your own matcha alongside houjicha-flavored chocolate and cream filled breads!

44. Eat Chankonabe (Sumo Wrestlers Stew)

Chankonabe is the nutritious stew that sumo wrestlers eat daily as part of their bulking up diet. It is a hearty dish that is relatively healthy, low in fat, high in protein and filled with tons of veggies. There are many Chankonabe restaurants in Tokyo, conveniently located close to the sumo stables where the wrestlers practice and live. But, Yoshiba is the most unique because it is located in an old sumo stable with a sumo dohyo (ring) right in the center of the dining room (this is where I had my chankonabe experience in Tokyo ).

If you’re interested in booking a tour instead of navigate somewhere to each chankonabe here are a couple highly rate ones:

• Chanko-nabe with Robot Restaurant
• Duel with Sumo Wrestlers and Eat Chankonabe in Asakusa

45. Drink a Cat Coffee at Oshiage Nyanko

Are you a cat person who loves coffee? This quaint little café boasts stuff dreams are made of! Tucked away in a tiny pocket-sized treasure cove, this hidden gem is located near the Tokyo Sky Tree. You will be amazed at the wonderful 3D latte art of “ Oshiage Nyanko ”. Although the café isn’t that prominent, it is so famous that you can easily find it.

46. Take a Sushi Making Class

If you are a sushi lover, what better thing to do in Tokyo than learn how to make it? I got a personal sushi lesson with Tokyo Tours with Tomomi , where we first paid a visit to Tsukiji Fish Market to pick up some fresh tuna for our meal and went to her private home to assemble. Get Your Guide also offers a fabulous Sushi Making Class . The best part is when you are rewarded by getting to eat your efforts. Afterwards you can wash it all down with sake by booking a sake tasting .

You can find many more sushi making options at Cookly .

47. Go to a Ping-Pong Restaurant

Tokyo is filled with quirky dining options and The Rally Table is one of them. It’s ‘Game On’   at this restaurant where table tennis is the centerpiece of the room. So pop on in, order yourself a plate of the ping pong curry and play a game or two. FYI: It gets pretty lively at night, but during lunch it’s mostly business men so you’ll have a better chance at playing a game.

48. Eat at a Yakiniku Restaurant

This bucket list activity is for all the carnivores out there. At a Yakiniku (grilled meat) restaurant in Tokyo you will be barbecuing your choice of raw grub on your own table top grill. If you choose to have your dining experience at the highly rated Yakiniku Jumbo Shirogane , you will be indulging in A5 Kuroge Wagyu, the highest rank of Japanese beef. Or you can try some of  Tokyo’s other tasty yakiniku restaurants Or take the Night Foodie Tour in Shinjuku that includes a Yakiniku restaurant.

49. Explore the Ghibli Museum

If you have seen Spirited Away, and loved it, then the Ghibli Museum absolutely needs to be visited by you! The creator of the movies, Hayao Miyazaki, also had a hand in creating the visuals of this museum, helping make it one of the most visually stunning museums in the world. Even if it’s just for a moment, you’ll have landed right in the middle of one of his movies!

50. Eat Grilled Salamander (and other delicious stuff) in Piss Alley

Piss Alley, also known as Omoide Yokocho (or Memory Lane), is best described as the restaurant version of Golden Gai , a section that squeezes in over 200 miniature bars into a network of six narrow alleys. Piss Alley is a small area filled with quaint yakitori restaurants, and a few drinking holes, most with just a handful of seats.

If you are an adventurous eater head over to Asadachi, a name that translates to Morning Wood, where you will get the privilege of tasting Grilled Salamander. Yes! Salamander! Maybe not the best food in the world, but visitors who love to challenge their eating habits visit this restaurant for the most bizarre meal. Here you can also try pig testicles, frog shasimi, raw pig testicles and snake liquor. Yum!

51. Stay in a Capsule Hotel

These pint-sized pods have become popular for those that want something trendy, easy and economical. There are several all around Tokyo, but one of the top ones is Capsule Net Omotenashi .

52. Get Your Meal From a Vending Machine

You heard right — eat a meal from a vending machine! One of Japan’s greatest inventions, definitely not only limited to being found in Tokyo, are the vending machines at just about every corner. You can barely walk a block in Tokyo without passing by a half dozen vending machines. Though most are filled with an array of beverages, many will have food products that can easily make a meal. The list includes special items like flying fish soup, eggs, hot dogs, hamburgers, sushi, ramen and so on. My afternoon lunch of warm corn soup was surprisingly tasty!

53. Go to an Owl Café

Oh, what a hoot! Ever thought of having an eye staring contest with an owl? Here in Tokyo, everything is possible! One minute you are strolling through parks the next you have an owl named Peanut perched on your arm! These quirky cafés ( here are 7 to choose from ) are almost always packed with customers, and you need to be very careful around the majestic owls. No flash photography or sudden movements allowed!

 You can meet real owls at an owl café in Akihabara by booking here .

54. Sleep in a Ryokan

For a unique cultural experience stay at a ryokan, an old-school Japanese inn typically with tatami-matted rooms, low tables, and communal baths. Ryokan Sawanoya will give you this traditional feeling or opt for the updated Andon Ryokan .

55. Discover Sensoji Temple

Another historically significant spot in the middle of Tokyo, Sensoji Temple is the oldest religious site in all of Tokyo. Not only that, but is one of the more gorgeous temples to visit, based on its exterior. Right after visiting the temple, check out the shops by Nakamise Dori, on your way back to the station.

Truth be told, there is far more to see and do in Tokyo that could ever be written down in a post, unless you want to read pages and pages worth of bullet point suggestions. But these are some amazing activities to get started from, especially if you’ve only got a few days to yourself to explore the city. And after you’ve gone once, you’ll find yourself wanting to go back, again and again, and there will always be more to see. That’s really half the fun of it! So, what are you still waiting for? Time to book your plane tickets and go!

More Tokyo Articles

• Japanese Food Bucket List: 70 Foods to Eat from Japan
• 4 of the Best Day Trips from Tokyo
• Japanese Culture, Traditions and Customs: 15 Lifestyle Facts to Know
• Tokyo Food: 13 Themed (& Slightly Weird) Cafe & Restaurant Experiences
• Japan’s Hottest Show: Tokyo’s Robot Restaurant in Shinjuku
• Watch Wrestling Practice at a Sumo Stable in Japan
• Shinjuku Nightlife: A Guide to Tokyo’s Best Golden Gai Bars
• Best Quirky Café in Japan? Tokyo’s Calico Cat Café in Shinjuku
• Eat at a Themed Restaurant in Tokyo
• About Japanese Mochi Snacks
• How to See a Japanese Baseball Game in Tokyo

84 thoughts on “Tokyo Bucket List: 50+ Top Things To Do in Japan’s Coolest City”

awesome bucket list! book marking this one

Wow! It’s completely a different world! It’s so different to connect with some of the cultural settings you’ve been through. Some were quite odd to me and some very interesting. It seems that eating is important and collective actions are spectacular scenes there.

Honestly, the Japanese toilets were very unique to me. Piss Alley wasn’t so appealing. Relaxing at an Onsen was something that I would have liked to do too!

Hi. I found your blog through Instagram and I just looove your pictures there. You really have a great blog. And your list of Bucket Things to do in Tokyo is definitely something I will remember when I get the chance to go :-) Keep up your good writing!

Happy to have you as a new reader :) Tokyo is an incredible (& quirky) city, I hope you make it there someday.

Hi like to get more information

What would you like information on?

…and now I want to return to Japan.

There’s so much about the country that we didn’t get to see during our month there at the start of our travels. It would be fantastic to return there in 2015 to see things with a new more experienced traveller perspective, plus through the eyes of a vegan – a challenge that I’d gladly accept.

It would be really interesting to get a vegan Tokyo perspective! I would also love to go back to explore more of the Country, since I loved Tokyo so much.

The sumo wrestler’s stew looks good.

Amazing descriptions of one of the most exciting cities of the world. Thanks for sharing.

This was a very informative post, thank you Anette!

Where is the Hakkaku sumo place? I’m in Tokyo for one more day and would love to check it out! I cant seem to find it online anywhere. Thanks!

It is near Ryogoku Kokugikan at 1-16-1 Kamezawa, Sumida-ku, Tokyo, Japan 130-0014. This map may help: MAP

omg u so cool (^o^)

Going to Tokyo next month, this has been helping with my final itinerary.Thank you and this is a great travel blog overall!

Have a great time!! It still remains one of my favorite cities for the quirky culture and delicious food!

Thanks for these great tips! I am planning to visit Japan in 2016, so really helpful post and a lot of fun to read:-)

I hope you love Japan as much as I did!

Me too:-) Congrats on your book deal btw, awesome!

Wow ok, well… Need to try all of them cause I’m flying to Japan at the end of March. This seems to be lots of fun and apparently there’s SO much to do and see.. Hope that two weeks will be somewhat “enough” to experience at least some traditions. Love , Anna & Vanessa

You’ll be able to do and see A LOT in two weeks. Have a great time!

I’m trying to plan a trip to Tokyo this spring. I’ll definitely keep these in mind! Thanks for sharing. :)

Tokyo is one of my favorite cities in the world! I love it quirkiness and bustling streets. Hope you love it as much as me :)

Hi! Anything special you recommend to do / see with kids? Boys age 1.5 and 3.5. Tia!

Thankyou for the awesome ideas. My wife and I are currently in Japan visiting her family. I am looking forward to trying as much as possible from your list. Also do you know of any shops that sell Higonokami folding knife in Tokyo?

I’m not exactly sure which shops will sell one, but there are several knife shops around the Tsukiji fish market and on Kappabashi street. I’d check these two places first!

Thank you for all the great ideas…I will be visiting my sister in August she lives in Sendai but we are planning on visiting Tokyo one weekend and I hope I get to experience some of your places of interest. This will be my first time in Japan so I want to make all my experiences/excursions count!

How exciting that it will be your first time in Japan! Tokyo is incredible, even if you can only have time for a couple of the experiences listed. There is just a cool and quirky vibe wherever you go in the city, so just aimlessly walking will be entertaining!

It looks like the Tuna auction is closed to outsiders, Tourists are not allowed in until 9:00 AM.

That is a bummer for those visitors who could have woken up early enough to catch the auction!

Tsukiji is open for the tuna auction, but the 120 tickets are sold on a first come first served basis and the first group are admitted between 5:25-5:50 and the second group from 5:50-6:15am. The rest of the fish market though is only open from 9am. Still worth visiting.

pleasant site, the name is very good, keep it up !

I love this website so much! Me and my family are currently going to Japan this website is such a help. Once again thank you so much!!?

I hope you and your family have as much fun as I did in Japan!!

Tokyo is my spirit animal! ;) I didn’t have time to do everything on my bucket list there, although I drank all the vending machine tea I could get my hands on.

I’m not sure there could ever be an end to exploring Tokyo! But, at least you got your fill of vending machines :)

Hello it’s my first time in Tokyo .And we would like to visit most of the interesting show or restaurant and electronics stuff . Please recommend if any Cheers

I recommend the Robot Show, it’s pretty wild! You can read about my experience here: https://bucketlistjourney.net/captivating-chaos-tokyos-robot-restaurant-show/

Love this list! It’s unique and adds several different highlights to a never ending list of amazing things to do and see in Tokyo!

Wow ! Thank you for all these informations! Now I have a great list about things to do in Tokyo! ;)

What an awesome city to be in. I have had Japanese food before, but that’s got to be done in Japan I know. Nice pictures, nice colors, nice city.

It is an incredible city and the food is enhanced by the vibrant ambiance!

I love Japan only some places dont speck english but most do. These people are very kind and very nice. If anyone would want to go on a trip i recimend them to vist the flower park in Japan. Its so pretty and so worth going.

I definitely agree that there can be a bit of a language barrier in Japan, but the people are so kind. I’ve never been to the flower park, but it sounds like a place I need to go!

but dont disrespect them they get really upset i have seen it go down. They all are very nice but dont like when other people talk bad about Japan or the people there abd tbh i dont blame them because i would be the same way. I go to Japan every year and not once have they disrespeded my Countery or my people and the deffently deserve the same respect.

I will be in Tokyo at 18 October for ten days. Glad to hear your advices.

Have a great time! There is so much to see and do that you will go home with many interesting stories to tell!

I am going to Japan (Tokyo and Kyoto) for the first time for a week on October 12. Questions: Do they accept credit cards everywhere? Is public transportation available to get to the hotel from NRT airport? What do you recommend to bring as gifts for a baby? Adults? Thank you

Credit cards are not accepted everywhere, so make sure to bring some cash with you. From NRT you can take the JR Narita Express (N’EX; http://www.jreast.co.jp/e/nex ) into the city center, which takes about an hour and costs roughly $27 USD. Depending on where your hotel is, you may need to take the subway or a taxi from the drop off location. From what I understand, good gifts are high-end foods that they can’t get in their area. Most Japanese homes are small, so it’ll be more difficult to store a trinket. Useable or edible gifts are best (chocolate, candies, socks, etc.)

Great post, I agree on almost everything. I would just add that even better than sumo practice is the sumo tournament which really is a fun experience! As for the tuna auction… it’s becoming crazy lately. It has to do with the increasing number of tourists and the planned moving of Tsukiji at Toyosu: at the moment people start lining before 2 am! I am not sure it’s worth more than 3 hours of wait in an empty room

I agree with you about the sumo tournament, I bet that is a cool experience! As far as the auction goes, I’m sure people will have to determine how much they like their sleep :)

Wonderful list, for budget traveler like me you might want to check list of free things to do in Tokyo here http://blog.halal-navi.com/en/free-things-to-do-in-tokyo/

Thank you for sharing these awesome bucketlist items for Tokyo. We went two years ago and only did a fraction of these. Our favourite being the sumo match. But we definitely want to go to a Kabuki Theatre this time around

The Sumo Stable was one of my favorites too!! I hope you get to go back and experience the rest of Tokyo.

Such awesome ideas for my next trip into Tokyo! Thank you so much for sharing! If anyone wants to learn some Japanese before their trip to Japan, please get in touch with me and I will be more than happy to help you! Shota

Thank you for the post, we are going with our children to spend christmas and new years, any ideas?

I still have a couple of things pending, I will addthem to my ‘to do’ list. Thanks!

I wish I have seen this Bucket list before my trip to Japan 5 years ago. there is so many interesting things to do in this list.

Thank you to tell us so much useful information. I’m glad to read it.

Of course I would love to do all of these things, but the big thing I’ve always wanted to do was check out the arcades in Tokyo. I know that Japan has some of the best in the world (whereas arcades in the US are going extinct), and finally being able to see one myself would be a dream come true.

Yes! The arcades are insanely cool!

Japan is just the right blend of culture and leisure. If you are looking for some good travel possibility then do consider to visit Japan.

Wow! It’s absolutely a special world! Very exciting. It seems that consuming is essential and collective movements are remarkable scenes there.

Going to Japan for the first time next month. Will travel from Tokyo to Hiroshima in 7 days. Would it be worth while to get a JR Pass for the week we’re there? Any reccomendations on family (with toddler) accommodations that is reasonably priced?

I definitely think it’s worth it if you plan on making many stops along the way!

Hi Annette – only reading this now – we are planning about 10 days in Japan in early June. Can you recommend a good tour guide that’s not too expensive to help us get around Tokyo so we can get to most of your ideas! Please reply via email if you can. Thanks, Lila

I’m leaving for Japan on Thursday, April 26! I’m super excited. My son is stationed at Camp Zama. He and his wife had their first baby (a boy) 3 months ago. We will definitely be spending some time in Tokyo.

I bet you are excited! You get to spend time with a new grandson and see Tokyo. Have a wonderful trip.

Hi Annette,

You have some cool pictures of yourself here – did you travel by yourself? If yes, how did you take them? I will be going to Japan in September on my own, and at the moment I am bumped about the idea of only taking selfies or “unnatural” tourist poses

I travel solo A LOT and always carry two camera equipment pieces that allow me to take selfies when there’s no one around. 1. A tripod selfie stick for my Iphone. I use this one: https://amzn.to/2Kyo7Fm 2. A Joby GorillaPod for my DSLR camera: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003II3FD0/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I mostly use the Iphone selfie stick, because it’s quick and easy. Hope that helps and have fun!!

A really well written and presented guide. Good work. I am going to try some of these ideas!

Thanks for the article I would definitely do it when I visit Tokyo.

Only just now saw this article. Really informative and I wish I was able to see more on my recent trip to Japan. I was only in Tokyo for two days but I saw as much as I could! My favorite areas were Asakusa (I was staying in Ueno nearby), Akihabara, and Shibuya. I tried to get into a sumo match but, unfortunately, all of the tickets were sold out so maybe next time. I hope to go when baseball season is in as well so I can see a Giants game. Those of you who see this and are looking for a neat place to stay in Tokyo check out the Edo Sakura in Ueno, a quaint little ryoken (traditional style) hotel!

Waoo I can’t believe you have so many things to do in tokyo. Can you also make a blog about restaurants to visit in Tokyo

I’ll work on that one!

I am so thrilled to find this article, I am visiting Tokyo next week and I will definitely try to tick as many possible in this bucket list.

This blog is a wealth of information! So happy to stumble upon it. Just a quick question-when you stayed in the Hakone Guesthouse with the onsen were you able to book a room with a private onsen? Or do each of the rooms have access to a private onsen? Trying to book a room there, and it is unclear! Thanks!

I also enjoyed these fabulous things in my these tours and always spent lovely time with my buddies.

Japan is weird and awesome period

So many interesting things to do and try. I am now puttting the kimono fitting on my list of to do things in tokyo and hope we will find time for this fun experience when in Japan!

Wow!! Interesting article I found this article from twitter and it was worth coming here to read this blog. It shows the true culture of Japan in a single blog post.

wow!!! you have shown use some detail what can i say!! it is is such a remarkable place to be calm and relaxed and the right place to be, you’v shown us a lot thank you very mush i will need to book a ticket and what type of things could you do in Tokyo!?

I love that you mention Japanese toilets. They are absolutely amazing and I wish all bathrooms were like the ones in Japan.

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The Ultimate Guide to the Best Places to Visit in Japan

W ith its unique blend of traditional culture and dazzling modernity, Japan offers an incredible tapestry of experiences that captivate the senses and ignite the spirit of adventure. Yet, with so much to explore, planning a trip can feel overwhelming. Fear not, we're here to help! Travel journalist Kevin Erickson has curated a list of the must-visit places in Japan that promise a truly unforgettable journey.

• Uncover the timeless beauty of Kyoto
• Experience Tokyo's electrifying cityscape
• Discover the cultural heartbeat of Osaka
• Immerse yourself in Hiroshima's poignant history
• Explore the stunning wilderness of Yakushima

The Timeless Beauty of Kyoto

The ancient capital of Japan, Kyoto, is a living testament to Japan's rich history and tradition. With over 1,600 temples, serene Zen gardens, and the magnificent Fushimi Inari Shrine with its iconic torii gate pathway, Kyoto transports you back to Japan's imperial past. A visit during the cherry blossom or fall foliage season will make your journey especially magical.

Tokyo: The City That Never Sleeps

Japan's vibrant capital, Tokyo, presents an electrifying mix of neon skyscrapers, pop culture, high-tech innovations, and bustling street markets. From the fashion hub of Shibuya to the historic Asakusa district and the otaku paradise of Akihabara, Tokyo is a city of delightful contrasts that never fails to impress.

Osaka: The Nation's Kitchen

Known as the "nation's kitchen," Osaka is a haven for food lovers. From street-side takoyaki and okonomiyaki to high-end kaiseki cuisine, Osaka offers a culinary journey like no other. Don't miss the lively Dotonbori area and Osaka Castle, a symbol of the city's historical heritage.

Hiroshima: History and Resilience

Hiroshima, though known for its tragic past, showcases remarkable resilience and peace. The Peace Memorial Park and Museum provide profound insights into the catastrophic impact of the atomic bomb, while the scenic Miyajima Island, just a short ferry ride away, offers a tranquil escape.

Yakushima: Island of Ancient Forests

A trip off the beaten path leads to Yakushima, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Famous for its ancient cedar forests, which inspired the animated film "Princess Mononoke," Yakushima is an enchanting realm of nature where you might even encounter the endangered Japanese macaque.

Nara: The Birthplace of Japanese Culture

Nestled in the Kansai region, Nara is often overshadowed by its more popular neighbors, Kyoto and Osaka. Yet, as the first permanent capital of Japan, Nara is brimming with historical treasures. It's home to Todai-ji, the world's largest wooden structure housing a towering Buddha statue, and Kasuga Taisha, a beautiful Shinto shrine surrounded by thousands of stone lanterns. But Nara's charm doesn't stop at its temples. The city's park is famous for its hundreds of free-roaming deer, considered sacred and protected as national treasures.

Hokkaido: Nature's Paradise

If you crave pristine wilderness, set your sights on Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island. Here, you'll find stunning landscapes, from volcanic hot springs in Noboribetsu to lavender fields in Furano. Daisetsuzan National Park offers incredible hiking trails, while the Shiretoko Peninsula, a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts wildlife such as brown bears and sea eagles. In winter, the snow festival in Sapporo, the region's capital, showcases spectacular ice and snow sculptures.

Nagasaki: A Tale of Triumph

Nagasaki's past is imbued with foreign influences and a tragic history, making it a poignant visit. The Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum narrate the tale of its WWII devastation, while Glover Garden and Oura Church highlight the city's close ties with the West during Japan's period of national isolation. For a tranquil getaway, the nearby Gunkanjima (Battleship Island), an abandoned coal mining facility and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a fascinating glimpse into Japan's industrial past.

From ancient traditions to futuristic cityscapes, Japan offers a unique travel experience that transcends the ordinary. As Chris Rowthorn, a Lonely Planet writer and Japan travel expert, aptly puts it, "Japan is a world apart - a cultural Galápagos where a unique civilization blossomed, and today thrives in delicious contrasts of traditional and modern." So why wait? Begin your Japanese adventure today!

When is the best time to visit Japan?

The best time to visit Japan is in spring (March to May) for cherry blossoms, and fall (September to November) for autumn colors. However, Japan has something to offer in every season.

What should I eat in Japan?

Japan boasts a rich culinary tradition. Must-try dishes include sushi, ramen, tempura, yakitori, and regional specialties such as Kyoto's kaiseki and Osaka's takoyaki.

How can I travel sustainably in Japan?

Embrace the Japanese concept of 'mottainai' (waste not, want not). Utilize public transportation, avoid disposable items, respect local customs, and consider staying in eco-friendly accommodations.

Is Japan expensive to visit?

While Japan can be pricier than other Asian countries, it offers a range of options for different budgets. Prepaid transportation cards, affordable eateries, and a variety of accommodations can make your trip economical without compromising the experience.

• Japan National Tourism Organization
• UNESCO World Heritage Centre
• Lonely Planet

• Things to Do
• Tourist Spots & Attractions

16 Unique Places in Japan That Are Not Widely Known But Are Absolutely Mesmerizing

Japan is replete with enthralling nature and culture, so it is no wonder that its iconic landmarks and attractions draw visitors from all over. However, if crowds are not your thing or you are looking to experience a more unexplored side of Japan, fret not. There are many fabulous spots that are lesser-known and also offer a rewarding time with their spellbinding beauty and historic value. Read on to learn more about 16 off-the-beaten-path places that offer all different kinds of sights!

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

1. Noboribetsu Onsen (Hokkaido)

Soaking in an onsen (hot spring) is one of the best ways to experience Japan, as it is a centuries-old custom with deep roots all throughout the country. The northernmost prefecture of Hokkaido is no exception, and to experience piping hot waters that yield a once-in-a-lifetime experience, head over to Noboribetsu Onsen, which is derived from the Ainu word “Nupurupetsu” (dark, cloudy river). Stand transfixed at Noboribetsu Onsen as it furiously spews 10,000 tons of muddy water daily from the nearby Jigokudani Valley, an old crater created by a volcanic eruption around 10,000 years ago. You can thus rest assured that these hot spring waters are freshly delivered to you from Mother Nature!

You can immerse yourself in these muddy waters joyfully, as they are comprised of nine types of water, including salt/saline springs, sulphuric springs, and radium springs! Here, you can treat your skin to rejuvenating detoxification and emerge from the onsen waters, feeling totally cleansed. To complete your trip, you may want to sign up for a night cruise and witness Jigokudani be illuminated and transformed into an eye-catching dreamscape at night.

2. Risshakuji Temple (Yamagata)

Yearning for a place that will offer you an eclectic mix of spiritual solace along with physical activity? Situated in the sky-piercing mountains northeast of Yamagata City, Risshakuji Temple encourages you to have a good workout since you need to climb up 1,015 stone steps from the mountain entrance in order to reach it. You can feel the immense awe building inside of you as you make your way up to the secluded temple, and when you reach your destination you can savor a bird’s eye view of the surrounding majestic mountains. Take in a deep breath, pray to the gods at the temple, and feel a sense of bliss that can only come from being so close to the heavens above.

Aside from its novel location, Risshakuji Temple's claim to fame is a poem crafted by Japan's most famous haiku poet, Basho upon visiting this temple. Apparently, Basho stopped over at Risshakuji temple in the late 1600s and composed the haiku, struck by the poignant silence of the area. If Risshakuji struck even Basho’s fancy and ignited his imagination, there is no arguing that it must possess ethereal vibes. Be sure to visit there to recharge yourself both mentally and spiritually!

3. Frost-Covered Trees of Zao (Yamagata)

Winter enthusiasts will feel right at home in the region of Zao, which is a volcanic mountain range that borders Miyagi and Yamagata. When you visit Zao from mid-January to late February, you will be able to observe an extraordinary phenomenon that feels like a setting in a fantasy novel – fir trees heavily covered with snow for as far as your eyes can see! The snow on these trees is naturally curated by the northwest Siberian wind, thus acting as a stunning cloak.

To obtain a panoramic view of this awesome visual feast, it would be best to take the Zao Ropeway which will transport you to Zao-Sancho Station. Once there, savor the sight of these snow-covered trees standing tall and proud for miles and miles. This spectacle looks so unreal that they are known as the "Zao Snow Monsters." After you get your fill of these monsters, you can engage in winter sports like snowboarding and skiing. Skiing in and out of these monsters will certainly make you feel like a character in an adventure film.

4. Ashikaga Flower Park (Tochigi)

Although offering stunning sights of seasonal flowers all throughout the year, Ashikaga Flower Park in Tochigi Prefecture is famous for its hanging wisteria, creating a mystical sight as you walk among the delicately hanging blossoms while breathing in the sweet scent wafting through the air. Its appeal is not difficult to grasp – in fact, CNN thinks that this flower park is worthy of acclaim and nominated it as one of the world’s top ten dream destinations in 2014.

Come April or May, be sure to pay the park a visit and let your spirits soar as you take in the majestic sight of 350 wisteria trees in bloom. A spectacular riot of differently colored wisteria awaits you, including blue, pink, white, violet, and yellow. Also not to be missed is a hundred-year-old wisteria tree that is so huge that its thick branches have to be supported to create a breathtaking umbrella of blue wisteria flowers. 

5. Mount Kano (Chiba)

For travelers who wish to make Tokyo the focal point of their trip but spend some quality time with nature as well, Mount Kano will be the answer to your prayers. Mount Kano is Chiba Prefecture’s second-highest mountain at 379 meters high and provides breathtaking views of rural Chiba. Although located in close proximity to Tokyo, it allows visitors to envelop themselves in bountiful nature, offering a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

One memorable place you should include in your itinerary is the Kanozan Kujukutani Outlook Park. Overlooking the nearby Kujukutani Valley, this deck offers you first row seats to admire the “unkai'' (sea of clouds) that usually appears in the mornings from late autumn to early spring. You will surely be arrested by the thick, mesmerizing clouds of mist that float over Kujukutani Valley and give rise to this ethereal sight.

6. Sado Island (Niigata)

If you’re a hiking enthusiast, you may gravitate towards the idea of trekking at Sado Island, an island that is chock full of natural attractions. Situated 45 kilometers off the coast of Niigata, it allows you to immerse yourself in verdant forests and crystal-blue seas. Be sure to check out Ishina Natural Cedar Forest, as it gives you the chance to observe various unique birds and flowers. This walkway is also home to gigantic, ancient cedar trees, some of which are hundreds of years old and have been twisted and bent by the elements, lending an otherworldly and mystical touch to the surroundings.

Sado Island offers a microcosm of Japanese history, which will amaze history and culture buffs. For example, the "tarai bune" are a type of boat made from repurposed wash bins and has become a symbol of Sado Island. Visitors can even enjoy rides in these tiny boats, weaving through the waves of the Sea of Japan. Sado Island was also employed as a gold and silver mining location, and you can explore the remnants of these mines and visualize what life must have been like for these determined miners during the Edo (1603 - 1867) period.

7. Hiyo Koke no Sato Moss Garden (Ishikawa)

Hiyo Koke no Sato Moss Garden consists of a huge, vibrant moss garden that will transport you to a transcendental setting that would not be out of place in a Studio Ghibli movie. These heart-stopping stretches of green moss have been lovingly tended by the village residents for generations, thus ensuring its vitality. In fact, they curate the land such that 48 kinds of moss not only coexist seamlessly, but also juxtapose nicely against each other to create a harmonious scene.

In fact, Hiyo Koke no Sato Moss Garden received so much acclaim that the former Japanese emperor personally planted cedar trees during the 66th National Planted Tree Festival. These towering cedar trees only add to the splendid greenery, so why not visit this place that was visited by the emperor himself and be enveloped by the warm embrace of Mother Nature?

8. Karasawa Cirque (Nagano)

Autumn foliage is a beloved seasonal sight in Japan, with popular spots filling up with crowds during the peak season. However, if you prefer to have a picturesque place away from the crowded tourist spots, Karasawa Cirque in Nagano would be an ideal destination from late September to early October. Avid and athletic trekkers may particularly enjoy the challenge of trekking the 30 kilometers that are required to reach Karasawa Cirque. Located 2,300 meters above sea level, the maple leaves will dazzle your eyes with vivid hues of red, yellow, orange, and green against the rocky backdrop of the Japan Alps.

One thing to note: the trek typically takes about six hours, so many visitors choose to pitch their tents or stay overnight at Karasawa Hyutte or Karasawa Goya, both of which are mountain huts. This allows you more time to soak in the tranquility of Karasawa Cirque, breathing in the fresh mountain air.

9. Hamamatsu Flower Park (Shizuoka)

Hamamatsu Flower Park is a botanical garden that hosts over 3,000 different species of plants, offering sights of splendid colors and beautiful collaborations of flowers. One notable pairing is the cherry blossom trees creating a stunning backdrop for the tulip fields, carpeting the ground with a whimsy of colors.

Spring is not the only time one should visit the park, as its seasonal flowers dye the precincts every shade of the rainbow throughout the year. For those who are looking for a leisurely way to enjoy the sights, you can hop on the Flower Train and listen to the explanations provided by the guides, offering an enjoyable and educational experience.

10. Maruyama Senmaida Rice Terraces (Mie)

The Maruyama Senmaida rice terraces are an agricultural wonderland that demonstrates the ingenuity and hard work of the local farmers as they leverage the local climatic and environmental conditions to grow their rice. These terraces rise 100 meters up the sides of the hills, with about 1,340 rice paddies of all shapes and sides carved into the formidable hills.

The terraces offer different sights throughout the year, filling up with water and reflecting the sky during the spring, turning green with fresh rice crops dancing in the wind during the summer, the gold rice crops seemingly glittering during the autumn, and being covered with snow during the winter.

11. Adachi Museum of Art (Shimane)

The Adachi Museum of Art combines the best of art and nature, two rejuvenating and introspective fields, under one roof. Art aficionados and nature lovers should feel right at home, as this museum enables you to develop a profound appreciation of Japanese-style aesthetics with its collection of artworks, including those by Taikan Yokoyama, one of the great masters of Japanese painting.

Its Japanese garden is also in a league of its own, as it has been selected as the best Japanese garden in Japan for many consecutive years by the Journal of Japanese Gardens. Visitors will certainly understand why, as looking out of the windows from the museum will make you feel that the garden is like a pretty painting that portrays the marvels of nature. Stop by the Adachi Museum of Art to experience how art seamlessly intertwines with nature, bringing about a sense of peace and serenity!

12. Kojima Town (Okayama)

If you are keen on fashion, try visiting Kojima Town in Okayama, which has made a name for itself as the go-to place if you wish to buy jeans that are imbued with a unique sense of Japanese-style aesthetics. In fact, your journey will begin right when you arrive at JR Kojima Station, as you will be welcomed by many pictures of denim jeans imprinted on coin lockers and vending machines.

Hopping on a “Kojima Jeans Bus” and alighting at Kojima Jeans Street will allow you to spend a leisurely afternoon strolling down the streets and marveling at the sights, such as a diverse range of jeans flapping in the wind on the electrical lines above you. There are also galleries that display avant-garde products related to denim jeans, creating an image of the history of denim jeans-making in Kojima.

13. Akiyoshi Cave (Yamaguchi)

Stretching for 10 kilometers about 100 meters under Akiyoshi Plateau in Yamaguchi Prefecture, Akiyoshi Cave enables visitors to take a respite from the stresses of modern life. It is known as one of the largest underground limestone caves in Japan, and will steal your breath away with its impressive stalactites and stalagmites.

And that’s not all – Akiyoshi Cave displays some exclusive formations that are difficult to find elsewhere. A highlight is a rock formation called “Hyakumaizara” (hundred saucers), which will surely stop you in your tracks as you gape in awe at how these “saucers” are stacked so spectacularly on top of each other. This cave is a perfect way to be reminded of the fact that great things take time, as after all, these natural masterpieces were painstakingly sculptured by Mother Nature for a few hundred thousand years!

14. Onomichi City (Hiroshima)

Cat lovers, rejoice! Onomichi City in Hiroshima boasts a huge cat population. In fact, the cat population is such an integral part of the city that the tourism authorities once launched a novel project that enabled visitors to use Google Street View and explore its streets through the lens of a cat. It goes without saying that you will have a whale of a time strolling down the streets and taking in the adorable kittens and cats.

As if in homage to its cat inhabitants, Onomichi City also has a “maneki-neko” (beckoning cat) museum that showcases about 3,000 maneki-neko objects, some of which are valuable imported items and period artifacts. The maneki-neko is an indispensable figurine in Japanese culture, as its raised paws are said to symbolize good luck and prosperity for businesses. Hence, a visit to this museum is not to be missed, as you can gather authentic insights into the prized maneki-neko.

15. Tsujunkyo Bridge (Kumamoto)

Kumamoto is home to not just Kumamoto Castle - one of Japan’s top 3 castles - but also Tsujunkyo Bridge, situated in Yamato City. Tsujunkyo Bridge is comprised of towering stone aqueducts and is truly a sight to behold as water is discharged at high velocity from the central section. Many people head over to Tsujunkyo Bridge from May to November to behold this magnificent “waterfall” in action.

Originally constructed in 1854 to provide water to stimulate the growth of crops, Tsujunkyo Bridge is still able to transport 15,000 cubic meters of water daily. Although these gallons of water are not needed for irrigation nowadays, they are still useful in flushing silt out from the aqueducts so that Tsujunkyo Bridge can be maintained in tip-top condition.

16. Gunkanjima (Nagasaki)

If you wish to explore an abandoned island up close and personal, look no further than Gunkanjima, otherwise known as “Battleship Island.” Located a mere boat ride from Nagasaki Port, Gunkanjima used to house a prosperous mining town. It attracted aspiring miners far and wide, who built so many reinforced-concrete apartments and industrial buildings that Gunkanjima came to resemble the warship “Tosa.”

Unfortunately, all this hive of activity came to a stop when the mine was abandoned in 1974, thus causing the buildings to deteriorate under the natural elements. These buildings eventually became dilapidated, which ironically attracted interest for the eerie and otherworldly vibes they evoked. Films like “Skyfall” have already leveraged Gunkanjima for shooting, so there’s no reason why you shouldn’t visit Gunkanjima to experience the air of mystique for yourself!

Find Your Own Captivating and Unknown Corner of Japan

From onsens to islands to quaint towns and flower parks, Japan has something for everyone, ranging from the intrepid adventurer to the nature lover and the art aficionados. This is exactly the sort of idyll that entrances visitors worldwide, and hopefully you found at least one attraction in this list that makes you want to visit. Do incorporate these lesser-known but equally mesmerizing attractions into your itinerary so that you can develop a nuanced perspective of Japan that most travelers are not privy to!

Title image: BoonritP / Shutterstock.com

If you want to give feedback on any of our articles, you have an idea that you'd really like to see come to life, or you just have a question on Japan, hit us up on our  Facebook ,  Twitter , or  Instagram !

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

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TRAVEL | Where to Go

TOP DESTINATIONS TO VISIT OTHER THAN TOKYO, KYOTO, AND OSAKA

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WHERE TO GO IN JAPAN AFTER VISITING TOKYO, KYOTO, AND OSAKA? READ ON TO FIND OUT MORE!

Travel to up to the mountainous Hida region of Gifu prefecture and stop in Takayama. At the heart of the city is Old Town Takayama, a well-preserved time capsule of the medieval Edo period. Three narrow streets known as the Sanmachi Suji are lined with old-fashioned shops, houses, and restaurants elegantly built in traditional style. Perhaps the finest example is the old government office, Takayama Jinya – at one time Japan’s largest rice storehouse. The best time to visit Takayama is in the spring or autumn seasons, when the city is known for a special festival known for incredible floats.

SEE TOURS THAT VISIT TAKAYAMA

Discover Hiroshima, the chief city of Japan’s Chugoku region. After World War 2, Hiroshima was determined to rise from the ashes of nuclear destruction and establish itself as a city of peace. The central fixture of the city is the Peace Memorial Park. The park features sweeping lawns with a number of stirring monuments, including the A-Bomb Dome, The Cenotaph for the A-Bomb Victims, even a museum that tells their stories. Other monuments of old Hiroshima have been carefully rebuilt to remember the city’s ancient history, including Hiroshima Castle and nearby Shukkeien landscape garden.

SEE TOURS THAT VISIT HIROSHIMA

Nagasaki is unenviably known as the second of two cities to have suffered nuclear devastation. Although there is a Peace Park there much like Hiroshima’s, complete with a magnificent statue at the center, only visiting these kinds of monuments is much like reading only half of the city’s captivating story. Make time to enjoy the stately elegance of Glover Garden, the sacred atmosphere of Oura Church with the 26 Martyrs Monument, and the historic Dutch houses full of classical Western style in the old Dejima district while touring Nagasaki.

SEE TOURS THAT VISIT NAGASAKI

Nara was the first permanent capital city Japan ever had, and much of the city has a real old-time feel to it. But the reason you should visit, the reason Nara is beloved as a destination, is the thousands of adorable Sika deer wandering around Nara Deer Park and nearby Todaiji Temple. These cute creatures are protected by Nara as a sacred guardian of the city, and though wild most of them are surprisingly friendly to strangers, even bowing to receive one of the special deer crackers sold at stalls around the park. Todaiji Temple is also worth exploring. The Great Eastern Temple is a grand sight to behold, and houses one of Japan’s largest Buddha statues.

SEE TOURS THAT VISIT NARA

Fill your vacation with views of Japan’s natural splendor in Hakone, a breathtaking location on the Izu Peninsula. The entire region lies within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and is filled with a variety of picture-perfect nature scenes. One of the best places to take in the sights is on a cruise over Lake Ashi, which features a splendid panorama of greenery-covered mountains by the lakeside town of Hakone. For a view that can only be described as spectacular, soar overhead from a gondola on the Hakone Ropeway, which, if the weather is favorable, offers awe-inspiring views of Mount Fuji. The ropeway descends into Owakudani, a mysterious volcanic caldera wreathed in sulfur and smoke, where you can taste the local specialty: eggs that have been hard boiled in a volcanic pool.

SEE TOURS THAT VISIT HAKONE

Take a spiritual retreat into Wakayama prefecture as you visit Mount Koya, to behold one of Japan’s most sacred mountain temples. The center of the Shingon sect of Japanese Buddhism, Mt. Koya (or “Koyasan”) features some truly magnificent temple sites that make you feel perfectly cut off from the world and its worries. Plan an overnight stay in a temple for an opportunity to truly experience life as a Buddhist monk. Visitors dine on healthy vegetarian monks’ food, enjoy a tour of Okunoin, the fascinating mausoleum of Shingon Buddhism’s founder, Kobo Daishi, and awake the next morning to attend morning prayers with the monks.

SEE TOURS THAT VISIT MT. KOYA

Naoshima is a small island that is a resort getaway for lovers of modern art. Naoshima is also called “Art Island” for its many museums and architectural wonders. Many of the museums including Bennesse House Museum, Chichu Art Museum and Lee Ufan Museum were stylishly designed by acclaimed Japanese architect Tadao Ando. These museums house a wide variety of works from various Japanese and international artists, including paintings, sculptures, and other art pieces – some of them take entire rooms to display! Much of the island is designed around a theme of coexistence with nature. Be sure to admire the two giant pumpkins – artworks for which Naoshima is famous.

SEE TOURS THAT VISIT NAOSHIMA

Kanazawa is filled with many of the historical trappings befitting an old castle town, but the city’s treasure is undoubtedly Kenrokuen Garden. Hailed as the chief of Japan’s Three Great Gardens, Kenrokuen is the perfect place for a nice long stroll, where visitors can admire the various flowers, trees and ponds, with scattered teahouses and other traditional structures. Spring and autumn are the most beautiful, resplendent in either cherry blossoms or fall colors. Kanazawa offers plenty of other cultural opportunities to enjoy as well, with both an old-fashioned samurai district called Nagamachi, and the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art.

SEE TOURS THAT VISIT KANAZAWA

Himeji is a beautiful city surrounded by sea and mountains in Hyogo prefecture, boasting one of Japan’s most iconic national treasures. The most prominent feature of the city is Japan’s most enduring and preeminent feudal fortress, Himeji Castle. The castle keep was constructed in the early 1600s by legendary samurai general Toyotomi Hideyoshi, which has survived in its original form to this day. Himeji is called “White Heron Castle” for its glistening white exterior and walls that seem to spread from the central tower like wings. Next to the castle is Kokoen, a fairly new landscape garden constructed to commemorate the anniversary of Himeji Castle, featuring 9 separate gardens depicting different Edo-era garden styles.

SEE TOURS THAT VISIT HIMEJI

Sapporo is that largest city in Hokkaido prefecture, and it is by far the top place to be during winter in Japan. While Hokkaido is celebrated as Japan’s winter playground, going in February during the Sapporo Snow Festival is a definite must. Massive creations built entirely of snow and ice depict famous landmarks and larger-than-life characters. These can be seen at locations across the city, including Susukino – Sapporo’s brightly lit entertainment district, the best place in town to grab a bite to eat. In the heart of the city sits Odori park, an expansive strip of greenery stretching over 12 city blocks – the perfect spot to take a breather while exploring Sapporo.

SEE TOURS THAT VISIT SAPPORO

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There’s no need to tip in Japan. Here’s what else travelers should know.

The Land of the Rising Sun has fascinated travelers for centuries, and this summer is no exception. 

Tokyo is among the top five international cities Americans are visiting this summer, according to Expedia and Google Flights. And with the exchange rate currently so strongly in Americans’ favor, it’s an especially good time to visit if you can take the hot and humid weather .

Before you book your flight though, there are some things you should know. From cultural customs to customs and immigration, here are 10 things to do when visiting Japan.

1. Learn basic Japanese

Some people, particularly in Tokyo, may speak English, but it’s best to learn a few basic phrases in Japanese like “hello,” “excuse me,” “where is the restroom?” and “thank you.” There are free tutorials available across social media and language apps like Duolingo or Babbel. 

You’ll also want to download a free translation app like Google Translate that can handle both verbal and written translation.

2. Fill out the Visit Japan Web form 

U.S. citizens don’t need a visa to visit Japan for stays under 90 days, but you will need to fill out a Visit Japan Web immigration and customs form . Save time by doing this in advance online instead of at the airport when you arrive.

What to know about Tokyo Disney Resort: Why Disney fans will travel all the way to Japan for its theme parks

3. Get a transit card 

A prepaid Suica or PASMO transit card isn’t just for public transportation. It can also be used to pay for things at vending machines, convenience stores and some shops. 

You can download a digital version through Apple Wallet or get a physical card once you arrive in Japan. Just keep it loaded with as much money as you want to spend.

4. Keep cash on hand

Cash is still king in some places, including food stalls and small shops that may not accept credit cards or digital payments. 

You can withdraw cash for low fees and fair exchange rates from ATMs at Japanese convenience stores like 7-Eleven. A Suica or PASMO card can tide you over until you can get to an ATM.

5. Skip the tip

There’s no tipping culture in Japan. In fact, some servers have been known to follow customers out and return tips like they were accidentally left behind. Instead of tipping at restaurants, offer thanks. 

Before eating, it’s customary to say “ itadakimasu ” like a quick prayer to show appreciation for the food and those who grew it. When you leave, you can say “ gochisousama deshita ” to staff to show gratitude for the meal.

6. Stand aside on escalators

In Tokyo, people stand to the left of escalators and keep the right side open for others walking up or down the moving steps. In Kyoto, like in most U.S. cities, people stand on the right. Don’t worry about trying to remember which side to stand on. It will be immediately clear once you’re there. Just do what everyone else is doing and don’t block foot traffic.

7. Keep the noise down on trains

It’s considered rude to talk on your cell phone or play music or videos out loud on subways and trains. You may hear some small groups of friends chatting, but many commuters keep quietly to themselves.

8. Wear or carry socks

Some places, like temples or restaurants with tatami mats, may require you to remove your shoes. If you’re not wearing socks, you may want to carry a clean pair with you, just in case.

9. Prepare to bare all at onsens

If you’re not comfortable sporting your birthday suit around others, you may want to skip public hot springs. Swimsuits and other garments aren’t allowed in the communal water. Some onsens may also bar tattoos or ask guests to cover them up with a patch. However, there are some tattoo-friendly onsens as well as private onsens available.

Additionally, it’s customary to shower before entering the springs to keep the water clean.

10. You’ll have to wait to open some souvenirs

If you plan to load up on Japanese beauty products, snacks and other consumables to take home, you can buy them tax-free at stores like Don Quixote, but they’ll seal them in a bag indicating they were purchased without paying tax. You can’t open the bag until you leave Japan. 

Bonus: Eat all the things, including at convenience stores or vending machines

From egg salad sandwiches to fresh onigiri rice balls, there’s so much good, affordable food in Japan. Don’t miss the delicious and cheap treats at Japanese convenience stores like 7-Eleven, Lawson and Family Mart. The same goes for the wide variety of readily available vending machines selling cold and hot drinks, depending on the season. 

Japan traveling tips

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written by Dre Roelandt

updated 12.06.2024

Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, there are a few things you should know to make your trip smoother and more fun. From local customs to getting around on public transport, these Japan traveling tips will help you navigate the ins and outs of this intriguing country.

Buy a Japan Rail Pass

Sort out your itinerary, ... but leave space for free time.

• Sort out your budget (you'll need it in Japan)
• Don't just go for the cities

Learn about Japanese culture and etiquette

Learn some japanese words, ... but come prepared for the weather.

• Bring some cash

Carry your trash

Your sim card might not work in japan, hire a guide, watch out for expensive taxi rides.

• Want more Japan traveling tips?

Travel ideas for Japan, created by local experts

Small Group Tour: Splendours of Japan

Discover the allure of Japan on our small group tour (max 16 guests). Unveil Tokyo, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Osaka, and Okayama through guided explorations. Immerse in tea ceremonies and relish in the captivating beauty of these iconic destinations. Regular departures ensure an unforgettable journey.

Small Group Tour: Secrets of Japan

Embark on an exceptional small-group tour, available monthly, unveiling Tokyo, Hakone, Hiroshima, Osaka, Kyoto, and beyond. Uncover Japan's hidden gems, from serene shrines to bustling cities, and immerse in enchanting forests.

Small Group Tour: Highlights of Japan

Exciting small-group tour with monthly departures. Immerse in Japanese culture, challenge a pro in a sumo suit, wander Arashiyama's bamboo groves in Kyoto, and relish a kaiseki feast with Maiko entertainment - all included in this fascinating small group tour.

Japan highlights: Tokyo to Osaka

From Tokyo to Osaka, this Japan trip features fantastic experiences. View a sumo session, visit ancient temples, and climb the Tokyo Skytree tower. Explore the resort town of Hakone in Mt Fuji’s shadow, savor a tea ceremony in Kyoto, and see cherry blossoms, in season, to complete a wonderful trip.

Self-Guided Adventure Tour in Japan

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural beauty, history, enchanting culture and warmhearted people of Japan, with our self-guided tour of Japan. Walk-through a bamboo forest, see how sake is made, join Samurai lesson, go bar-hopping in Tokyo and Osaka and extend your journey to Hiroshima

Culinary tour across Japan

This trip takes you from Tokyo to Kyoto, where you will experience authentic Japanese foods, visit morning markets in the local cities, learn how to make Japanese food and enjoy a unique stay at a monastery. A once in a lifetime experience.

At first glance, the Japan Rail Pass might seem expensive, but it's truly worth every yen. This pass allows you to save a significant amount of money, especially if you plan on traveling extensively using the Shinkansen, or bullet train . 

The pass is available for purchase online, but here's the crucial part: you must buy it  before  you leave for Japan. After your purchase, you'll receive a voucher in the mail. This voucher will come with detailed instructions on how to exchange it for the actual pass once you've arrived.

There are two types: the Green Pass and the Ordinary Pass. If you're travelling with a big group, the Green Pass (first-class) might be worth spending extra money on because the Green Cars are generally less crowded and more comfortable .

Japan traveling tips: buy a Japan Rail Pass  © Shutterstock

One of the most important steps in planning your trip to Japan is sorting out your itinerary well in advance. Booking your accommodations early — ideally more than six months ahead — can save you a lot of money. 

The same goes for restaurant reservations, especially at popular spots. Crowds are a fact of life in Japanese cities especially, and some restaurants require reservations weeks or even months in advance.

Major museums and attractions are also worth buying a ticket ahead of time. If you don’t, you might find impossibly long lines when you arrive.

If you want help creating your perfect itinerary, see our tailor-made trip service . Our trips are designed by local travel experts and are completely customizable. See our Japanese trip ideas for inspiration.

You won’t want to overload your itinerary either. Japan is a place to be savored, not rushed. Jet lag can hit hard (Japan is 9 hours ahead of GMT and 14-17 hours ahead of various US time zones), so leave some free time in your schedule. 

This way, you have time to stroll through serene gardens, take a spontaneous detour into a charming side street, or spend extra time in a café people-watching. 

Japan traveling tips: come during the Cherry Blossom season  © Shutterstock

Sort out your budget (you'll need it in Japan)

Japan is known for being pricey, so it's essential to have a realistic budget. But don't worry — there are options for every budget. Convenience stores, or " konbini ," are great for quick, affordable snacks and meals, and you'll be amazed at the quality and variety they offer. 

Accommodations range from luxury hotels to budget-friendly capsule hotels. Ryokans ( traditional Japanese inns ) offer a unique cultural experience and can vary in price. 

And while high-end dining can be expensive, you can find plenty of budget-friendly options like ramen shops , conveyor belt sushi, and izakayas (casual pubs). Street food, especially in places like Osaka's Dotonbori or Tokyo's Tsukiji Outer Market, is also a delicious and affordable way to experience local cuisine.

Don't just go for the cities

Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto are amazing, but don't miss out on Japan's countryside. Two-thirds of Japan is covered in forests. Staying in the cities means you might miss the charming villages , rice terraces and shrines.

Japan also boasts fantastic beaches, such as those in Okinawa, where you can enjoy crystal-clear waters and even go scuba diving with hammerhead sharks.

If you're visiting in the winter, the Japanese Alps offer some of the best skiing and are absolutely gorgeous. 

Just remember, life in the countryside moves slower, and many places close early (around 5:30 PM).

Cable car at Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, Japan © Shutterstock

For instance, tipping is not customary in Japan and can even be considered disrespectful. 

When using escalators, stand on the left side to allow people in a hurry to pass on the right (except in Osaka, where it’s the opposite). 

It's also considered impolite to eat or smoke while walking; instead, find designated smoking areas and places to sit and eat . Public transport is generally very quiet, even when crowded. Speaking loudly or talking on the phone is frowned upon, so try to keep noise to a minimum.

When making purchases, you will notice that money is not handed directly to the cashier. Instead, you’ll want to place your cash on a small tray provided at the counter in order to be polite.

Photography etiquette varies; while photos are often allowed in Shinto shrines, many Buddhist temples prohibit them. 

Caves in  Dogashima, Nishi-Izu Town © Shutterstock

Although you can navigate Japan without knowing Japanese, learning a few basic phrases can go a long way. Most menus and signs include English, and many Japanese people speak some English. Nevertheless, making the effort to learn and use some Japanese words is appreciated and can make interactions smoother.

 Words like " arigatou " (thank you), " sumimasen " (excuse me/sorry), and " onegai shimasu " (please) are appreciated. The VoiceTra app can help with translations for more complex conversations.

Pack light for your trip to Japan, leaving space for souvenirs like ceramics, traditional clothing, and local snacks. Japan has so many great shopping opportunities , and you won't want to miss out on bringing home some special mementos.

Hotels usually have laundry facilities, and laundromats are common. Plus, public transport has limited space for large bags.

 Moreover, public transport doesn't have much space for large bags. If you have substantial luggage, consider using luggage forwarding services available at most convenience stores and hotels, which can transfer your bags to your next hotel for you. This service is called "takkyubin" and is incredibly convenient.

Yoshinoyama, Nara, Japan spring landscape © Sean Pavone/Shutterstock

Japan's weather is highly variable and can change drastically from one region to another.  Spring (March to May) and  autumn (September to November) are often considered the best times to visit Japan. During spring, you can experience the cherry blossom season, which typically peaks from late March to early April. Autumn is great for it’s pleasant temperatures and stunning fall foliage.

Summer  (June to August) in Japan can be hot and humid, especially in cities like Tokyo and Osaka. If you plan to visit during this season, be prepared for high temperatures and occasional typhoons.

Winter  (December to February) brings cold temperatures and heavy snowfall to areas like Hokkaido and the Japanese Alps.

Bring some cash 

Japan is still largely a cash-based society. Smaller shops and public transport might not accept credit cards, and splitting bills can be tricky due to language barriers. 

Your best bet is to exchange your money at your local bank before your trip to get a better exchange rate than at the airport. Since yen coins go up to ¥500, bring a coin purse to keep your money organized.

While ATMs can be scarce, most 7-Eleven stores have machines that accept international cards, making them a reliable option for withdrawing cash.

Iriomote Island, Japan © Pixabay

Japan is renowned for its cleanliness, and this is partly because public trash cans are rare. You're expected to carry your trash with you and dispose of it at home or in designated areas, where you'll need to separate it for recycling. It’s also polite to wash items before throwing them away to keep public spaces clean.

If you're really struggling to find a trash can, convenience stores like 7-Eleven usually have one, but use them sparingly and respectfully.

Japan’s mobile network can be tricky for foreign visitors. Many international SIM cards don’t work, so consider renting a Pocket WiFi device. 

You can reserve one online before your trip and pick it up at the airport. These devices provide reliable internet access wherever you go and can connect multiple devices. This can be super helpful when you are navigating Tokyo’s city streets, for example.

Shirakawago Village in Gokayama Japan © Mitsuboshi Kaidou

To really see Japan, consider hiring a guide. They can offer local insights, historical context, and cultural explanations that you might miss on your own. 

Guided tours can be especially helpful in places like Kyoto, where understanding the significance of temples, shrines, and historical sites enhances the experience. Some guides also offer themed tours, such as food tours, anime and manga tours, or nature hikes.

Taxis in Japan are clean and efficient but can be expensive, especially at night. Public transportation is much more economical. 

Apps like Hyperdia and Google Maps are great for navigating Japan’s transit system, providing detailed routes and train schedules. Japan's trains are known for their punctuality and efficiency, making them a reliable way to get around. 

Japan traveling tip: Don't miss the countryside like Mount Takao © Shutterstock

Want more Japan traveling tips? 

Planning a trip can take hours of research — why not skip the hassle and instead leave the details to us? Our tailor made trips are designed by local travel experts and are completely customizable to your preferences. We take care of the booking, and you are left to just enjoy your trip, with 24/7 support. See our existing trips for inspiration. 

Dre Roelandt is originally from the United States but lives and works in Berlin, Germany. Dre is a freelance writer and artist with a passion for travelling. They are an in-house Content Editor at Rough Guides.

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Travel advice for Japan

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Japan

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