Kinkakuji, the Golden temple Kyoto, one of the best places to visit in Japan.

16 Unmissable Places to Visit in Japan in 2024

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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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Fushimi Inari shrine in Kyoto, one of the best places to visit in Japan

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 .

Sensoji Temple in Tokyo with SkyTree in the background, a top Japan destination

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, one of the best stops on our Japan 2 week itinerary

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 from Lake Ashi in Hakone, one of the top places in Japan

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: Hotel Musashiya was one of the best places we stayed in Japan. It’s a modern ryokan on the shores of Lake Ashi in Moto Hakone. We loved our comfortable tatami room with lake views, the indoor and outdoor onsen baths (also with lake views), and the delicious vegetarian feast we were served in our room. It was wonderfully relaxing. Find more hotels in Hakone here .

5) Kanazawa

Kazuemachi geisha area in Kanazawa, one of the best cities to visit in Japan

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 .

Toshogu Shrine in Nikko, one of the most beautiful places in Japan

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

Okunoin cemetery in Koya-san, a top Japan destination

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 village in the Kiso Valley, a must see in Japan

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 .

Todaiji temple in Nara, a must do in Japan

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.

Atomic Bomb Dome at Hiroshima Peace Memorial, Japan

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. 

Busy streets and giant crab of Dotonburi in Osaka at night, a popular day trip from Kyoto

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

Visitor to Kinosaki Onsen in kimono at night by the cherry blossom lined canal

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

The yellow pumpkin sculpture on Naoshima Art Island in Japan

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

Cherry blossoms at Handayama Botanical Garden, one of the best things to do in Okayama Japan

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

Hineji Castle in cherry blossom season

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

Mount Fuji at Lake Kawaguchiko at sunrise from the north shore

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

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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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60 Comments

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.

Reply ↓

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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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.

Mount Fuji

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

Imperial Palace and Nijubashi Bridge

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.

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

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

Bamboo forest in Kyoto

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

The Island Shrine of Itsukushima

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.

Temple City: Historic Nara

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

Osaka Castle with autumn leaves

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

Chūbu-Sangaku National Park and the Japanese Alps

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 Nagoya, Japan

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 Fukuoka Castle in Maizuru Park

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

Sapporo, Hokkaido

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.

Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine

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.

Koyasan Okunoin

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.

Kiyomizu-Dera temple during cherry blossom season

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.

Shinjuku Gyoen park

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.

Hakone Open-Air Museum

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.

Naritasan Shinsho-ji temple

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.

Whale shark in the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium

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.

Matsumoto Castle

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.

Arashiayama Monkey Park

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.

Kenrokuen Garden in Kanazawa

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.

Traditionally dressed woman along the river in Kyoto with fall colors

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

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

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Japan Travel Guide

24 of the best experiences in Japan

Phillip Tang

Mar 23, 2024 • 17 min read

Multi nationality women walking through Tokyo

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.

Two jars of sake on display at a Sashimi restaurant in Okinawa Island

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.

The glowing signs of Akihabara district at night

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.

Fast food items (nikuman steamed buns, oden broth winter foods and fried meats) on display at a Japanese convenience store in Tokyo.

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.

Traditional Japanese guests room of Ryokan Jonoyu, onsen ryokan of yufu city,

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).

Two geishas wearing traditional japanese kimono among Sensoji Temple in Asakusa Tokyo, Japan.

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.

d Japanese man grills BBQ to customers in a tiny Japanese BBQ food stall at Omoide Yokocho, Shinjuku.

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 September 2021 and updated March 2024

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Boutique Japan

30 Best Destinations in Japan

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

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

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

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

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

Kabira Bay on Ishigaki Island in the Yaeyama Islands group of Okinawa Japan

Your Guide to Japan’s Best Destinations

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

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

Best Cities in Japan

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

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

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

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

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

must visit spots japan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Overlooking Yasaka no to Pagoda in Kyoto Japan

3. Kanazawa

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

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

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

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

5. Hiroshima and Miyajima

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

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

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

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

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

Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island, just outside Hiroshima, Japan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

10. Takamatsu

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

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

Hydrangeas blooming in Kamakura Japan

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

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

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

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

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

12. The Kiso Valley and Nakasendo Road

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

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

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

Magome village on the Nakasendo Road in Kiso Valley Japan

13. Izu Peninsula

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

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

14. Koyasan (Mount Koya)

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

15. Naoshima

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

Kabocha Pumpkin sculpture by Yayoi Kusama on Naoshima Island Japan

16. Kurashiki

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

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

18. Kinosaki Onsen

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

19. Kamakura

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

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

21. Onomichi

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

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

Tree on Yakushima Island Japan

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

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

23. Yakushima

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

24. Hokkaido

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

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

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

Underwater view on Iriomote Island in the Yaeyama Islands of Okinawa Japan

25. Kumano Kodo

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

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

26. Takayama, Shirakawago & Gokayama

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

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

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

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

28. Noto Peninsula

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

29. Yaeyama Islands

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

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

30. Iya Valley

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

must visit spots japan

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

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

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

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

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

Less Than 1 Week in Japan

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

7 to 10 Days in Japan

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

10 to 14 Days in Japan

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

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

2 to 3 Weeks in Japan

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

Sunset Onomichi Japan

Where in Japan Will You Go?

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

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

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33 Epic Things to Do in Japan [2024 Ultimate Guide]

Alesha and Jarryd

  • Last Updated: January 25, 2024

We’ve spent months exploring this incredible country to bring you our list of the absolute best things to do in Japan! Let’s get into it.

The Land of the Rising Sun is one of the most unique and captivating countries in the world.

Japan is a country with a fascinating heritage and interesting history – it’s just so much fun visiting its many attractions.

You can see things like old temples and shrines, royal palaces, hot springs, breathtaking gardens, and even quirky fun attractions like real life Mario Kart.

You can also taste authentic Japanese cuisine right at the source, admire a Japanese Garden or Buddhist Temple, try a tea ceremony, see the cherry blossoms, or visit all the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Japan is a great destination for everyone, from families to independent travellers; anyone will easily have a great time there.

Things To Do In Japan

Table of Contents

1. Follow the Sakura (Cherry Blossoms)

2. escape from tokyo’s bustle in a bamboo grove, 3. climb mount osore and soak in a natural hot spring, 4. party with robots in tokyo, 5. watch sumo wrestling, 6. immerse yourself in the ghibli museum, 7. haggle in nishiki market, 8. see the meiji shrine in tokyo, 9. explore the temples of mount koya, 10. stroll through the flower tunnels, 11. explore japan’s history at the imperial palace, 12. hike with monkeys on monkey mountain, 13. visit the resting place of the shoguns, 14. be in awe of tokyo’s oldest temple, the senso-ji temple, 15. see the towering buddha on todaji temple, 16. hike the legendary mount fuji, 17. experience the elegance of himeji castle, 18. immerse yourself in the magic of the tokyo national museum, 19. taste the finest sushi in japan, 20. visit the most sacred shrine in japan, 21. relax in rikugen garden, 22. marvel at the sculptures in the hakone open-air museum, 23. commemorate the past in the nagasaki bombing museum, 24. dive the fantastic waters, 25. take to the slopes for a ski session, 26. experience the art at naoshima island, 27. experience a matsuri festival, 28. cross the busy shibuya crossing in tokyo, 29. spend the night in a capsule hotel, 30. be amazed at the hospitality in a ryokan, 31. buy some traditional japanese crafts, 32. lounge at sunayama beach, 33. escape the hustle and bustle to enryakuji temple, our guide to the best things to do in japan.

The country is filled with one-of-a-kind attractions that are uniquely Japanese. That means the best things to do in Japan are usually those that you won’t be able to find anywhere else.

From the famous sights like Mount Fuji, to the national parks, traditional arts markets and museums, there are so many incredible tourist attractions to see when you visit Japan.

Don’t miss out on our complete guide to the top  places to visit in Japan !

The sakura cherry blossoms are a defining symbol of Japan and one of the most eagerly awaited natural phenomena in the country.

These delicate, pink flowers bloom for a brief period in spring, typically from late March to early April, and are celebrated for their ephemeral beauty.

The transient nature of the blossoms has come to represent the fleeting nature of life and is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture.

Witnessing the sakura in full bloom is often listed as one of the top things to do in Japan, and for good reason.

The cherry blossoms are not only visually stunning, but they also hold a special place in the hearts of the Japanese people.

The arrival of sakura season is synonymous with the beginning of a new cycle, a time for renewal, and a reminder to appreciate the beauty of the present moment.

Throughout Japan, you can find numerous parks, temples and shrines, and streets lined with cherry blossom trees, creating a breathtaking backdrop for the age-old tradition of hanami, or cherry blossom viewing parties.

Friends, families, and colleagues come together to share food, drink, and laughter under the blooming canopies.

To experience the magic of sakura season, plan a visit to popular viewing spots like Tokyo’s Ueno Park, Kyoto’s Philosopher’s Path, or Hirosaki Park in Aomori.

Keep in mind that the exact timing of the blossoms varies from year to year, so it’s important to monitor forecasts for the best viewing opportunities.

The cherry blossoms are an essential part of the Japanese experience, so be sure not to miss this enchanting display when considering fun things to do in Japan.

Sakura Cherry Blossoms Tokyo Japan

Suzume-no Oyado Ryokuchi Park is one of the most pleasant and relaxing spots in Tokyo.

It may just be a bamboo grove, but it’s so enchanting and relaxing that you’ll want to come back over and over again.

The entire park is filled with a nice chill breeze, and there are plenty of comfortable spots to lounge.

It even has several open areas that can be used for anything, like for children running around and picnics.

At the far end of the park, you’ll find a traditional, yet refurbished, Japanese home that’s open to the public.

Check out our ultimate guide to the best  things to do in Tokyo !

This mountain is considered to be one of the three most sacred places to visit in Japan, and it’s the site of the very well-known Bodaiji Temple in Mutsu City.

The entire area is rich in volcanic activity, which is why there is a persistent odour of sulphur in the air.

Osorezan, or Mount Osore, is thought to be the entrance to the underworld, which is why its name means Fear Mountain.

The temple is really popular, which is why there are overnight lodgings. The hot springs near the temple are one of the many reasons visitors visit this place. The volcanic activity underground heats the water in these pools, making the hot springs a real treat!

The nearby Lake Usori is a really solemn and beautiful spot, although visitors should definitely avoid its poisonous waters.

*** Unfortunately this is closed now. The Samurai Restaurant is in its place, and the Robot Restaurant is intending to reopen eventually.

Tokyo is one of the world’s most modern cities, and that’s very apparent in its flair for science fiction.

The Shinjuku Robot Restaurant is one bombastic and lively spot where you’ll find regular nightly shows that feature its staff dressed like robots and futuristic machinery while performing mock battles.

It’s an experience like no other, and even though it’s loud and filled with pulsing neon lights and large crowds, it’s still one of the most unique attractions to visit in Japan.

If you’re a fan of Gundam, or anything that’s related to robots, then you’ll definitely enjoy this restaurant.

Sumo wrestling is an old and exciting sport from Japan that has a long-lasting tradition.

Originally, Sumo was meant to be a ritual of sorts with Shinto roots where its fighters wrestled in order to entertain and appease the gods.

Today, it’s a real spectacle that anyone can easily enjoy ­­– one that Japan is really proud of.

The official Sumo tournaments, or basho, only take place 6 times during the year – every other month from January.

Sometimes, the match might last a mere few seconds, but these heavyweight Sumo wrestlers will definitely entertain you. This is a must on any trip to Japan.

Don’t miss the best  things to do in Osaka !

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Anime is one of Japan’s most important and largest cultural exports, so much so that plenty of people in the West spend hours upon hours watching it.

One of the biggest names in anime is Hayao Miyazaki, who’s the creator of Spirited Away, My Neighbour Totoro, and plenty of Anime classics – which he’s created along with his legendary Studio Ghibli.

The Ghibli Museum is one of the most enchanting Japan attractions, because it allows its visitors to take a peek into the genius mind of Miyazaki.

Here you’ll have direct contact with many of his finest works, as well as insight on how he’s created them. This is one of the top tourist attractions in Japan!

Also known as Kyoto’s Kitchen, this five-block shopping street has over a hundred different street food stalls, shops, and restaurants.

The market has a very long history because it used to be a fish wholesale market, with its first shop opening in the early 14 th century.

Here you’ll immerse yourself in one of the most charming and pleasant atmospheres in Kyoto, and you’ll get to explore many of its culinary delicacies that the city is famous for.

Plenty of the shops offer free samples, as well as skewers meant to be eaten right there and then. This market is the best place to try street food in Japan.

There are some establishments where you can sit down and enjoy your delicious Japanese food. It’s located near Shijo Station.

Here’s our complete guide to the best  things to do in Kyoto .

Things To Do In Japan, Nishiki Market, Fish

Emperor Meiji was the first emperor of modern Japan, which is a period that began in 1867 when the previous Edo Period ended.

This shrine is dedicated to him and his wife, Empress Shoken, and was built shortly after their deaths.

It’s a complex of buildings, and it’s surrounded by a hundred thousand trees that were planted after the shrine was rebuilt after being destroyed in World War II.

Today, it is one of the most popular things to see in Japan, and it sees over 3 million visitors per year.

Go on a bus tour to visit not only Meiji Shrine but other celebrated highlights of the capital city such as Asakusa and the Tokyo Skytree.

READ MORE: Here’s everything you need to know about  t ravelling in Japan .

Meiji Shrine, Forest, Japan

It could be said that Mount Koya is the birthplace and the centre of Shingon Buddhism, as this was the spot where Kobo Daishi finally set place in the 9 th century.

Kobo Daishi is considered one of the most important religious figures in the history of Japan, and that’s very evident in the artisanal headquarters of the Shingon sect and the nearby town.

The Garan temple complex on Mount Koya is one of the most sacred sites in Japan, and there are over a hundred temples to explore.

This spot also has overnight stay at the temple lodgings, which is definitely one of the most spiritual things to do in Japan.

Make the most of your vacation with our guide to the  best day trips in Japan .

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The Kawachi Wisteria Garden is one of the most unique attractions in Japan. Its main draw are its long tunnels decorated with immaculately kept and displayed wisteria flowers.

Large and looming wisteria trees that form the beautiful flower roof over them bound the two tunnels.

When you’re done with the tunnels, you’ll be greeted by some of the most beautiful and pristine views Japan has to offer at the hillside garden.

From there, you’ll see practically an entire sea of wisteria flowers and sloping hills in the distance.

The flower tunnels are best from mid-April to mid-May & mid-November to early December, and they are located in Kitakyushu.

As one of the most important historical buildings in Japan, the Imperial Palace in Tokyo used to be the Edo Castle in the past.

It was the residence of the Tokugawa Shogun and the Royal Family, and it’s a building that’s seen a lot of hardship.

While there’s no entering the inner courtyard and buildings when you’re on a tour, the palace grounds and eastern gardens are great spots to visit.

Walking around and learning about the country’s turbulent past is one of the best things to do in Japan.

Want to see the Chiyoda Imperial Palace and learn all about the history and architecture? Book this awesome tour where you get enjoy a walking tour of the palace and Japanese gardens with a knowledgable local guide!

The Imperial Palace, Japan

Hiking up on Monkey Mountain is easily one of the most unique things to do in Japan.

As the name implies, it’s a mountain where plenty of wild monkeys live, and those are the Japanese macaque, a species native to Japan.

The hike is an easy and pleasant one, which takes about 30 minutes, and at the top you’ll have a gorgeous view of Kyoto, Japan.

The biggest draw of this spot are the monkeys that are generally friendly and docile.

The monkeys are wild animals, however, which means you shouldn’t let your guard down, and the general advice is to never stare at them directly in the eyes.

History lovers have to include this site on their trip to Japan! Before Japan entered its modern era, it was a feudal country that was led by a shogun.

The Tokugawa Shoguns were the leaders of Japan during this period, and Togukawa Ieyasu founded the Shogunate itself.

Today, the first Tokugawa Shogun is enshrined and laid to rest in the Toshogo Shrine, where he’s revered as the Great Deity of the East Shining Light.

Toshogo Shrine is a complex of buildings that’s very intricately and ornately built. The Resting Place of the Shoguns is definitely one of the most fascinating places to visit in Japan.

Senso-ji Temple is one of Tokyo and Japan’s most popular temples.

The temple is dedicated to Kannon, the goddess of mercy, and it’s an entirely beautiful temple with a long and detailed history.

It was built in a unique position meant to protect Tokyo from invaders in the past, and it was even used by the emperor in Japan’s feudal era as one of his personal residences.

Today it’s a place meant for spiritual healing, although it’s pretty popular with tourists too.

The nearby shopping street is another nearby attraction that offers everything from traditional trinkets to unique local treats.

Sensoji Temple, Japan, Things To Do In Japan

The Todaji temple is one of Japan’s oldest and most important Buddhist temples.

It’s the world’s largest wooden building, even though today’s construction is actually one third smaller than it used to be in the past.

This temple has a very interesting and turbulent history because it grew so powerful in the past that it influenced the government which was then situated in Nara – its city.

Today, it’s still an important religious building, and it houses a towering 15m tall bronze Buddha statue, which is one of Japan’s largest ones.

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Mount Fuji is Japan’s most sacred mountain, which has been worshipped for millennia. It’s played a vital role in Japanese society in the past, and it has inspired plenty of artists throughout the ages.

Today, hiking and mountaineering on the legendary Mount Fuji is one of the most popular things to do in Japan.

The official Mount Fuji climbing season is from July 1 st to September 10 th , and there are a few trails to go through.

Yoshida, Subashiri, Gotemba, and Fujinomiya trails are some of the most known and well-marked trails on Mount Fuji, and they each offer a different challenge.

Mt Fuji, Japan

Japan used to be a very militaristic country, but a large portion of its society was artistic, which culminated in some very beautiful castles.

Himeji Castle is one of the few remaining ones that has never been damaged at all by anything, and it’s considered the most beautiful one of the last 12 original Japanese castles.

It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a national treasure, so it should be on everyone’s Japan bucket list.

Called the White Heron Castle, its imposing size and beauty will definitely impress many of its visitors, as visiting it is one of the finest things to do in Japan.

The castle is also a hotspot during cherry blossom season. The Japanese gardens surrounding the castle come to life during the spring cherry blossom season and the natural colors are stunning.

Himeji Castle, Japan

Japan has plenty of museum, but if you only get to pick one, then make sure it’s the Tokyo National Museum.

It’s the perfect spot to visit when you don’t know where to go in Japan but just want to see something natively Japanese.

This museum has an extensive gallery with the finest Japanese art, like ancient pottery, beautifully crafted kimonos, and ukiyo-e – the famous Japanese woodblock prints.

On top of that, it has a lot of historic objects, like samurai swords and katanas, as well as the largest archaeological collection in Japan. Check the website for more info !

Sushi is the finest and most popular dish in Japanese cuisine, which is why every visitor should opt in to try the best one available.

Sushi Dai is one of the best sushi restaurants, where all of its ingredients are completely fresh from the Tsukiji Fish Market downstairs.

Here, you’ll be surrounded by plenty of other tourists and locals as it is quite popular. You can get food a la carte, but the courses are the recommended way to go.

There are even options for those that can’t eat raw fish, as well as meals for children. There is no better place to eat sushi in Japan!

Sushi, Japan, Authentic

Isse City is home to two very sacred shrines, one of which is the Inner Shrine.

The Inner Shrine, or Kotai Jingu, is the most sacred shrine in the country, and it’s over two thousand years old.

It has a very unique architectural style because there it shows no influence from other Asian countries.

Its architecture predates Buddhism.

Kotai Jingu is dedicated to the Sun Goddess, Shinto’s most venerated deity, and the shrine itself is rebuilt every 20 years according to ancient Shinto traditions.

The next rebuilding is scheduled to be in 2033, and that will be the 63 rd time the shrine will be rebuilt.

Considered the most beautiful garden in Tokyo, Rikugen Garden was built in the early 18 th century for the 5 th Tokugawa Shogun.

Its name means Six Poems Garden, because it’s meant to recreate scenes from famous poems.

The style in which it is built is considered to be one of Edo’s defining ones, with sizeable strolling gardens, a large central pond, and man made hills surrounding it.

A unique balance of nature and art is on display in this museum .

Sculptures are dotted all over the striking landscape outside because these sculptures are meant to be admired while you’re enjoying perfect views of the surrounding nature.

You can also head inside if the weather’s not the greatest, but walking outside admiring the sculptures of both Japanese and international artists is definitely one of the top things to do in Japan.

There’s a space dedicated to different artists, such as Picasso, where you’ll find some of his works, as well as photographs detailing aspects of his life.

World War II was a devastating time for humanity’s history, and that’s very evident in the bombing of Nagasaki.

On August 9, 1945, the world’s second nuclear weapon detonated over Nagasaki, causing tremendous destruction.

Today, the Nagasaki Bombing Museum commemorates the lives lost and the destruction caused – it’s a really somber place to visit.

It recounts the city’s experience through items, artifacts, and firsthand accounts. It’s one of the most inspiring cities in Japan and here you can learn about the city’s struggle to recover after the detonation.

Check out our guide to the top  things to do in Hiroshima , where you can see other WWII Monuments like the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.

Scuba diving is not one of the things Japan is normally known for; however, it’s becoming increasingly popular.

Japan has over thirty thousand kilometers of coastline and an incredible number of diving spots that are unique and interesting to explore.

Marine life is extremely diverse and fascinating. The southern waters of Japan are similar to those in the Philippines and Thailand.

Spots like Miyako Island, Ishigaki Island, and Yoron Island are some of the finest diving spots in the region, although all of Japan’s waters are amazing to explore.

The weather in Japan is generally warm and nice, which is why plenty of people are surprised that it has some of the finest ski conditions in the world.

There are few other locations on the planet that have such ideal powder-skiing conditions such as Japan. The winds that cross the Sea of Japan from Siberia carry snow as thick as 10-20 meters.

Hokkaido has several ski resorts, like Niseko and Furano, and Honshu’s resorts are generally focused around Nagano.

No matter which part of Japan you choose to ski, you’re definitely going to have a great time.

Make the most of your trip with our perfect  Hokkaido itinerary !

Naoshima is an island with a cozy Mediterranean climate, and with a complete focus on art.

It might be a tiny island but it’s entirely filled with museums and galleries, and everywhere you look, you’ll see gorgeous views.

The architecture present on this island is one of the finest things to see in Japan, most of which was designed by famous architect, Ando Tadao.

This island also serves as a venue of art festivals and gatherings, and it hosts plenty of museums dedicated to art.

A matsuri is a festival in Japan, although they widely differ from the west.

Japan is known for having more festivals than practically anywhere else in the world, and they’re lively events with a lot of energy.

Besides amazing performances and music, on matsuris you’ll also find delicious Japanese cuisine and drinks being served at stalls.

Matsuri Festival, Japan

Although it might not appear as much on first glance, going over Shibuya Crossing is always an exciting affair.

It’s one of the largest hubs of people, and it’s an intersection that connects two of the busiest railway stations in the world.

It’s ideal for those that don’t know what to do in Japan and just want to see more of it.

It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for a cheap place to spend the night, or just a unique invention in Japan, capsule hotels are fascinating.

They offer a sleeping pod and a little space to stash your luggage in, and that’s pretty much it. Most have a common room and shared bathrooms – they’re very private, however, and can be found anywhere.

Sleeping in one of them is definitely one of the most unique things to do in Japan.

Ryokans are an old-fashioned type of authentic Japanese inn that has existed in Japan for centuries.

They’re considered great places to spend some time, learn about local customs, and maybe try a tea ceremony. They are generally located near hot spring resorts.

If you’re looking for some traditional Japanese hospitality, then look no further as they’re more than a mere place to stay.

In a Ryokan, you’ll get to experience true Japanese culture, lifestyle, baths, and cuisine. Try taking part in a tea ceremony or donning local clothing. Everyone is treated equal, no matter their country of origin.

Craftsmanship and artisanship are completely ingrained in Japanese culture.

The Japan Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square is a store as much as it is a showroom, and it’s completely supported by the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry.

You’ll find unique traditional Japanese Crafts of any make, such as lacquer work boxes, cut glass, textiles, and pottery, as well as any types of trinkets and items of great quality.

Since Japan has such a long coastline, it’s only logical that it has some amazing beaches.

Sunayama Beach, which means Sand Mountain Beach, is located on the largest of the Miyako Islands, and it’s considered one of the finest beaches in the entire wider region.

Miyako Island itself is a flat island made of elevated coral reef, and because there are no rivers on the island, it has a bit of unique geography.

The beach has plenty of modern amenities, and it’s found very close to the city.

Enryakuji Temple is a complex of Buddhist temples with a long and detailed history, and some of the most beautiful dark forests in Japan surround it.

It’s one of the most important monasteries in Japanese history as it’s the headquarters of the Tendai sect of Japanese Buddhism. It’s considered a Japan must see and a very iconic tourist attraction!

The temple itself is very old, as it was built in the 8 th century, and during its peak, it had over 3,000 sub temples and a vast army of warrior monks.

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!

Alesha and Jarryd

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Shinjuku Robot Restaurant has been closed due to covid and is still listed on here as per 2023 – FYI

thank you for taking your time and provide us with this helpful post. is june a good month to travel there?

Thank you so much. June is a great month to go and visit. 🙂

No, June is not a great idea as it is the Rainy season in Japan.

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Golden Pavilion, Kinkakuji, Kyoto

24 of the most beautiful places you should visit in Japan

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

Kasey Furutani

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

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

Recommended: The most beautiful festivals in Japan  

Kiyotsu Gorge and the Tunnel of Light, Niigata prefecture

Kiyotsu Gorge and the Tunnel of Light, Niigata prefecture

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

Kamikochi, Nagano

Kamikochi, Nagano

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

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

Oirase Gorge, Aomori

Oirase Gorge, Aomori

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

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

Kinkakuji Temple, Kyoto

Kinkakuji Temple, Kyoto

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

Mt Fuji, Yamanashi

Mt Fuji, Yamanashi

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

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

Shirakawa-go, Gifu prefecture

Shirakawa-go, Gifu prefecture

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

Motonosumi Shrine, Yamaguchi

Motonosumi Shrine, Yamaguchi

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

Narai, Nagano

Narai, Nagano

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

Kumano Kodo, Wakayama prefecture

Kumano Kodo, Wakayama prefecture

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

Takachiho Gorge, Miyazaki

Takachiho Gorge, Miyazaki

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

Himeji Castle, Hyogo prefecture

Himeji Castle, Hyogo prefecture

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

The beaches of Ishigaki, Okinawa

The beaches of Ishigaki, Okinawa

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

A Forest Where Gods Live at Mifuneyama Rakuen Park, Saga

A Forest Where Gods Live at Mifuneyama Rakuen Park, Saga

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

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

Hill of the Buddha at Makomanai Takino Cemetery, Hokkaido

Hill of the Buddha at Makomanai Takino Cemetery, Hokkaido

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

Yakushima, Kagoshima

Yakushima, Kagoshima

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

Naoshima, Kagawa

Naoshima, Kagawa

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

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

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

Zao Snow Monsters, Yamagata

Zao Snow Monsters, Yamagata

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

Ogasawara Islands, Tokyo

Ogasawara Islands, Tokyo

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

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Kyoto

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Kyoto

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

Kurokawa Onsen, Kumamoto

Kurokawa Onsen, Kumamoto

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

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

Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island, Hiroshima

Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island, Hiroshima

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

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

Yamadera Temple, Yamagata prefecture

Yamadera Temple, Yamagata prefecture

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

Hitachi Seaside Park, Ibaraki

Hitachi Seaside Park, Ibaraki

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

Korakuen, Okayama

Korakuen, Okayama

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

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The 15 best places to visit in Japan

must visit spots japan

A trip to Japan will offer visitors unique experiences you’ll never find anywhere else. Japan seems to have it all, from the fast and furious streets of Tokyo to the holistic ethereal experiences of Kyoto, remote beaches with tropical climates, and fantastic ski resorts .

With its convenient public transportation and diverse regions, guests never run out of places to visit while traveling throughout this country. Add a polite local culture and one of the most efficient transport systems on the planet, and you’ve got yourself a dream holiday.

Ideally, spend at least two weeks to get a good taste of Japan. It’s a place definitely to be explored once in a lifetime.

The best places to visit in Japan

must visit spots japan

With nearly 10 million residents, Tokyo is the largest city in Japan. It’s unlike anywhere else on earth; a huge, busy metropolis with futuristic skyscrapers and a must for first-time visitors to Japan.

This enticing city has its hand on the pulse and is at the forefront of modern technological innovations. It’s the place to go if you’re looking for urban experiences, including contemporary art, shopping, and gastronomy. The city is mesmerizing to look at as it quite literally stretches upwards and sideways.

Head to the famous Shibuya Crossing, preferably at dusk when it’s at its busiest and the light is just right, to fully appreciate the effect of the lights and enormous video screens, flashing ads from the skyscrapers towering in every corner, to fully comprehend the pace and magnitude of Tokyo. You can get a bird’s eye view at the Shibuya rooftop observatory.

Where to stay : Ueno is a relaxed, affordable and friendly district of the city to stay, and near lots of major attractions.

When to go : During October and November the city is awash in color and shrines tend to stage beautiful fall festivals. The weather is lovely as well, and much more pleasant than summer when the humidity soars and public transportation can be hard to bear. Spring (March to May) is almost as appealing, not least because of the stunning pink cherry blossom.

What to eat : Tokyo is the birthplace of sushi so there is no place better in the world to eat it!

1a. Tokyo Skytree – Tokyo

must visit spots japan

Talking of views, they don’t come better than those at the Tokyo Skytree in Eastern Tokyo, the tallest tower in the world. A whiz to the observation deck at the top, at 2,080 feet, offers jaw-dropping 360 panoramic views of this gigantic metropolis and its skyscraper-filled skyline.

1b. The Imperial Palace

must visit spots japan

Like England has Buckingham Palace, Japan has the Imperial Palace, the royal family’s official residence in a large garden in the center of Tokyo. The inner grounds of the garden are rarely open to the public, but the East Gardens are open all year round and are a fascinating place to walk. The inner grounds open on two occasions in the year, the 2nd of January for the New Year greetings and on the 23rd of February for the Emperor’s birthday. Time your visit with these dates for a chance to experience the inner gardens.

2. Tsumagoi – Gunma

must visit spots japan

Step back in time at the village of Tsumagoi, in Kiso valley in Gunma Prefecture district, once a popular stop for travelers between Tokyo and Kyoto.

They have beautifully restored the town’s old wooden Inns, and you can find a hiking trail that leads to the village of Magome, part of the original route.

It has stunning views, but you need to catch it in the right season; otherwise, it’s impossible to walk there.

Where to stay : The Tsumagoi Prince hotel comes recommended and nearby the Joshin’etsu-kogen National Park.

When to go : June – August for the best temperatures but if it’s snow you’re after come in December or January as there are lots of fantastic ski resorts.

What to eat : Cabbage! Tsumagoi is the largest producer of the leafy, green vegetable in Japan.

3. Hakone – West Kanagawa

must visit spots japan

About an hour’s drive from Tokyo will bring you to Hakone, part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park on lake Ashinoko, famous for its hot springs.

It’s also where you can catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji on a good day across the lake or from a cable car. With so many hot springs, the obvious thing to do is indulge in that ancient Japanese ritual of shared open-air bathing, called the “onsen”.

Of course, you’ll also find some hot springs with incredible views.

Where to stay : Guro Kansiro is a 15 minute walk from Hakone Gora Park and its array of hot springs.

When to go : Fall evenings are the perfect time to relax in the hot springs.

What to eat : A black egg! They are regular chicken eggs that have turned black due to be cooked in the black springs. You can purchase them in tourist areas. Local folklore suggests eating one egg will add seven years to your life!

must visit spots japan

Osaka , Japan’s third largest city and also a major port, is often referred to as Japan’s kitchen and has got to be at the top of any foodie’s tour of Japan.

Its street food market is epic, to say the least, and thought to be one of the best in the world. If you head to Dotonbori, in the city center, lined with eateries of any description and whose unofficial slogan is ‘eat until you drop’, you will be spoilt for choice.

A must-try is Kukury, famous all over Japan, but this is its original home. Another must-taste, Osaka’s signature dish, has got to be Takoyaki, which is grilled octopus dumplings. There’s a different pace to Osaka, intensified by its frenzied display of LED lights, animated 3D signage and flashing video screens, all part of the experience.

Osaka also has its own castle, the Osaka Castle dating back to 1583. The castle is totally worth exploring, along with the oldest of all the Sumiyoshi shrines, the Sumiyashi-Taisha.

Where to stay : If you enjoy food and lively nightlife we recommend the Namba district.

When to go : The spring or fall to experience the city in the most enjoyable temperatures.

What to eat : Takoyaki, which are grilled octopus dumplings.

5. Kyoto mountains

must visit spots japan

Kyoto is, without a doubt, the image you had in mind when you set out on your trip to Japan. It is simply the most beautiful place in Japan.

It’s here where you’ll find wooden teahouses and Geishas in brightly colored kimonos, Zen gardens and temples; it’s thought there are over a thousand here.

The city itself can be rather disappointing after the buzz of Tokyo or Osaka, but if you head out towards the mountains, you will get a truly authentic Japanese experience.

If you’ve ever wanted to see a proper cherry blossom in its full glory, aim to be here in late March or early April for that magical experience.

Where to stay : Try a traditional inn – a ryokan – for a unique Japanese experience for one night before moving to a cheaper hotel or hostel downtown.  A ryokan is quite pricey but it includes meals and is very authentic.

When to go : Late March/early April for the most amazing colors and photograph opportunities.

What to eat : Kyoto is famous for traditional dishes including the Kyoto Fire Ramen which is cooked right in front of you. Tofu is also synonymous with Kyoto cuisine.

5a. Kinkaku-ji Temple – Kyoto

must visit spots japan

Nothing epitomizes Japan more than the Kinkaku-ji Temple at the foothills of Kinugasa Hill. The temple is in the true Japanese architectural style, with the two top floors completely covered in gold and a bronze phoenix perched at the very top. You’ll find statues of Buddha and other Buddhist icons inside.

The temple grounds are wooded and can provide a beautiful space for meditation. They are incredibly stunning in the fall when the trees start to change color and in winter when snow blankets them. Of course, in such a revered place, one of the most fun things to do is get your fortune told by a vending machine.

6. Nikko – Tochigi

must visit spots japan

If it’s temples you are after, and there are many in Japan, then head to Nikko, a calming retreat a few hours’ drive north from Tokyo. The Shinkyo Bridge (Sacred Bridge), one of the three finest bridges in Japan, will lead you into the mountains dotted with various temples and shrines, notable amongst them the Toshogo Shrine.

It’s awe-inspiring, to say the least, and up there with the top must-see places in Japan. It’s a memorial of the founder of a dynasty that ruled Japan for over 250 years.

There’s a colorful complex of over a dozen red and black buildings lavishly decorated with wood carvings covering almost every inch, covered in copious amounts of gold leaf.

Where to stay : Try the Nikko Guesthouse , which is one mile from Shinkyo and Rinno-ji Temple.

When to go : As with any of the mountainous regions, it is best to visit during the Sakura spring season or during the fall foliage period.

What to eat : Soba (buckwheat noodles) and Yuba (tofu skin).

7. Kanazawa – the capital of the Ishikawa district

must visit spots japan

Not many visitors make it to Kanazawa, but it has to be one of the top places to visit in Japan. For a true Geisha experience, head to the Geisha districts of Higashi Chaya or the slightly quieter Kazeuemach and Nishi Chaya, where you will find preserved wooden buildings.

You will find one of Japan’s best gardens, the Kenroku-en Garden, with many art museums here. Don’t miss the castle while you’re there. One of the best experiences here is having a proper Tea Ceremony at the oldest Tea houses in Kanazawa at the Gyokusen-en Gardens.

Where to stay : Hotel MyStays Premier Kanazawa is within a short walk of nearby attractions, such as Ishikawa Ongakudo concert hall if you fancy some more culture.

When to go : Anytime, except the summer when it can be very hot and humid.

What to eat : The melt-proof ice cream! The locals consume more ice cream here than any other place in Japan.

8. Takayama – Gifu

must visit spots japan

Though the least visited, Takayama, at the foot of the Japan Alps, is one of the best places to visit in Japan. Get up early, before the crowds arrive, and grab some “mitarashi-dango”, rice balls grilled in soy, and take in the magic and charm of the old town.

The streets are lined with perfectly manicured trees, traditional wooden houses, and red bridges over a river. It’s also a good place for the Cherry blossom season.

Where to stay : The historic Sanmachi-suji district , with its narrow streets to get a glimpse into life pre-modern Japan.

When to go : October for sun and pleasant temperatures or the spring for the cherry blossom season.

What to eat : The delicious mitarashi-dango (rice balls grilled in soy).

8a. Hida Folk Village – Gifu

must visit spots japan

The Hida Folk Village is an open-air village museum with houses relocated from their original locations in nearby Shirakawago. It’s a World Heritage Site and exhibits tools used in everyday life as it was then.

9. Kamikochi – Gifu

must visit spots japan

If you are an avid trekker, then Kamikochi is the place for you.

It’s by the Japan Alps, on the Northern Japan Alps to be precise, where you will find the Kamikochi River, a highland river valley surrounded by soaring peaks and perhaps the most stunning natural vistas in Japan.

Moreover, Kamikochi is the gateway to the region’s tallest mountains and most taxing hiking trails, such as the Yari–ga-take.

Where to stay : In the Kamikochi Valley , with most accommodations lying along the Azusa River.

When to go : From April to November. There is heavy snow in the winter and the resort is closed.

What to eat : Salt-grilled trout grilled on a charcoal fire.

10. Mount Koya – Wakayama

must visit spots japan

Mount Koya or Koya-San provides one of the most genuinely spiritual experiences you will get in Japan, or perhaps anywhere else on earth. Your journey starts with a cable car that takes you up into the secluded and sacred temple town, home to some Buddhist monks found up in the mountains. One can’t help but feel transported into a different world.

If you can, stay here for the night for a fully immersive experience that includes an early morning rise for meditation with monks.

An onsen bath is all part of the experience whilst your accommodation will come in the form of a tatami room, complete with sliding doors and where you sleep for the night on a mat. Finally, take a tour of the temples. There are over 100 of them, including the Okunoin forest cemetery, the final resting place of the nation’s most important historical and religious figures.

Where to stay : Try and stay at a temple in the mountains for a unique experience.

When to go : Spring/summer.

What to eat : Mochi (Japanese rice cakes).

11. Hiroshima

must visit spots japan

Re-built entirely after the WWII bombing, Hiroshima has got to be on your list of where to go in Japan, if not just to pay respect to the victims of the devastating atomic bombing. The Peace Memorial Museum and its surroundings provide a peaceful if not poignant space for reflection and a chance to take a step back for a slightly slower pace of things in Japan.

Combine your visit with a trip to Miyajima Island, only an hour away, famous for the Torri Gates, which seem to float when the tide is high; the sight is ranked as one of Japan’s three best views. Spend the night at Miyajima to fully appreciate its romantic setting when the paths have emptied of day visitors and are replaced with deer settling in for the night.

Where to stay : Miyajima Island.

When to go : May-May for cherry blossom season.

What to eat : Okonomiyaki, a local delicacy which translated means ‘what you like’, typically made of batter, cabbage, pork, and optional items such as squid, octopus, and chees

12. Mount Fuji – Yamanashi and Shizioka

must visit spots japan

Fuji-San, Japan’s highest peak with its perfectly symmetrical cone, is probably on everyone’s must-visit list. Catching a glimpse of it from anywhere is breathtaking.

Lake Kawaguchiko offers some of the best views, especially during the Sakura season (cherry blossom) or autumn, when the turning leaves completely transform the landscape.

You can, of course, climb the mountain itself during the official season from July to September. Otherwise, it gets very wet or very cold. However, the views are truly spectacular at any point on the mountain, especially at dawn.

Where to stay : At the base of Mount Fuji ahead of your climb.

When to go : The Mount Fuji climbing season is from July 1 to September 14. From mid-April-start of June you can ski down Mount Fuji.

What to eat : Tempura wakasagi fish caught from the Fuji Five Lakes district is delicious.

13. Izu Peninsula – Shizuoka

must visit spots japan

The Izu Peninsula is on the Pacific Coast of Japan with a beautiful, rugged coastline and is famous for its hot springs with an abundance of onsens and white sand beaches. The beaches on the west coast are generally quieter in the summer than those on the east coast. Weather permitting, you can also catch great views of Fuji-San at Suruga Bay.

Head to the quaint town of Shimoda, a city port that was the landing place of Western ships to Japan. Here, you will find a canal lined with old houses under willow trees now occupied by cafes, jazz bars, boutiques, and restaurants.

The mood here is quite bohemian, and you won’t want to leave in a hurry. There’s a quaint cobbled walkway along the canal that leads to Ryosen-ji temple on one end and the Sawamura house on the east end of the canal.

Where to stay : Try the Shimoda View Hotel , right near the coast.

When to go : The summer for top beach action. The weather is pretty mild here compared to the rest of Japan between June and September.

What to eat : The area is famous for its world-class seafood and wasabi.

14. Okinawa island

must visit spots japan

Now, for a completely different experience, visit Okinawa and enjoy its semi-tropical vibes. Many don’t even realize these southern islands exist. The archipelago forms an arc between Kyusu and Taiwan and was once a kingdom until Japan annexed it in the 19th century.

As a result, the culture here is entirely different to the rest of Japan, including its architecture and spicier food. In addition, it has some of the best beaches in Japan, often bordered by palm trees and turquoise waters, which are perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving. You can also trek into the jungle if you fancy it.

Where to stay : Nago City – Hotel Yugaf Inn has direct access to the beach.

When to go : Spring or fall. Avoid the rainy season from June – August.

What to eat : The food is generally spicier here than mainland Japan – try the Okinawa Soba noodles

14a. Ishigaki Island – Okinawa

must visit spots japan

Ishigaki Island is one of the largest islands of Japan’s Okinawa archipelago. One of the Yaeyama Islands, it is the remotest place in Japan, and only 75 miles away from Taiwan.

The island has near-white fine sand beaches, luxurious beach resorts, and clear blue waters where you can scuba dive and swim with hammerhead sharks. One of the experiences to have here is an eco-excursion to the mangrove forests of Iriomate Island.

15. The Kerama Islands

must visit spots japan

The Kerama Islands consist of 36 isles, with only four of them inhabited. The islands offer excellent hiking trails, whale watching, snorkeling, diving, or just lolling around on the beach.

The hunchback Whales arrive in the waters around Kerama from around January to March, so it is the best time to visit if you want to catch a glimpse of these magnificent animals.

Where to stay : Try the Kerama beach hotel.

When to go : January – March for whale watching.

What to eat : Gōyā chanpurū, a stir fry using the gōyā fruit is unique to the islands. Also, try sea-snake soup (irabu) if you’re feeling adventurous.

15a. Tokashiki Island and Zamani Islands

must visit spots japan

The largest of the Kerama isles is Tokashiki Island with two village ports, Tokashiki village on the northeast coast and Aharen on the southwest coast. There are many beautiful beaches on the islands, but this is where you will find the best snorkeling with sightings of the Takashi Sea turtle and an abundance of marine life.

You can find the best beaches on Zamani Islands. The Ama beach, with its shallow waters, is perfect for family holidays but means you have to swim further if you want to see any coral or sea life. Furuzamani beach, in the meantime, offers everything from swimming to diving and is great if you want to get up and close to tropical fish and coral.

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must visit spots japan

DISCOVER OUR MOST RECOMMENDED PLACES AND THE BEST ATTRACTIONS IN THESE TOP JAPAN CITIES

Figuring out your next vacation destination is one of the most thrilling moments when you plan a trip. But when you’re searching for the best places to go in Japan, it can get overwhelming! Every region has memorable sightseeing spots, food specialties, and plenty of opportunities to make for a fantastic adventure. How can you narrow it down? The most straightforward answer we can give is that it helps if you research different locations and see what tickles your fancy. Will you stick to urban sprawls like Tokyo and Osaka? Traverse the sacred sites in Kyoto and Nara? Or get away from it all in the rural areas of Hokkaido? To help you get started on your journey, we’ve listed our top 20 places to visit in Japan and what to do when you go!

must visit spots japan

Best Places To See in Tokyo Japan 2024

Northern tokyo’s top things to do.

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Central Tokyo’s Top Things to Do

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Western Tokyo’s Top Things to Do

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Southern Tokyo’s Top Things to Do

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Art aficionados also can’t miss Roppongi Hills, which has grown into the center of modern art culture in Japan. The Mori Art Museum features contemporary installations and prides itself on choosing pieces that the most casual observer will love. From here, it’s just a hop, skip, and a jump to Tokyo Tower . Its 150 and 250-meter high observation decks give you a 360° view of the city, and on a clear weather day, you can see Mount Fuji.

VIEW TOURS THAT VISIT TOKYO FOR 2024, 2025 & 2026

must visit spots japan

Things to Do in Osaka

Osaka Castle; Osaka; Where to visit in Japan; All Japan Tours; Japan Travel Blog;

Osaka Food to Eat

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Osakans are obsessed with food, and as the saying goes, this is the city to kuidaore —eat ‘til you drop! The regional specialties range from battered street foods like takoyaki to high-quality beef . The Dotonbori area is one of the best places in Osaka to take a food tour, but not the only one. At the food theme park Naniwa Kuishinbo, you can choose from over twenty restaurants in a 1960s atmosphere. Or, check out the Momofuku Ando Instant Ramen Museum, where you can make a customized cup of noodles!

VIEW TOURS THAT VISIT OSAKA FOR 2024, 2025 & 2026

must visit spots japan

Kyoto’s Temples and Shrines

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Other Things to Do in Kyoto

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When is the Best Time to Visit Kyoto?

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There’s no such thing as a "bad" time to see this ancient city! Travelers particularly love going to Maruyama Park during the cherry blossom season, and to the Arashiyama district to see Tenryuji Temple’s garden surrounded by autumn leaves . If you love Japanese festivals, check out the Gion Matsuri in July and the Aoi Matsuri in May.

VIEW TOURS THAT VISIT KYOTO FOR 2024, 2025 & 2026

4. mount fuji.

must visit spots japan

What to Do Around Mount Fuji in Spring

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What to Do Around Mount Fuji in Summer

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What to Do Around Mount Fuji in Fall

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What to Do Around Mount Fuji in Winter

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There’s nothing like the view of Mount Fuji, but clouds cover her peak for most of the year. Japanese people joke that she’s a shy mountain, but in reality, it’s all a matter of temperature and pressure. In winter, her base and peak reach equilibrium, and you’ll be much more likely to see her come out!

VIEW TOURS THAT VISIT MOUNT FUJI FOR 2024, 2025 & 2026

5. hiroshima.

must visit spots japan

Sadly, the world became aware of Hiroshima City when the atomic bomb fell on August 6th, 1945. You can gain a better understanding of this tragic day and its effects on the survivors at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park . Here, you’ll first see Genbaku Dome, which was one of the few buildings that remained somewhat intact after the explosion. Several more monuments memorialize victims, including the Children’s Memorial dedicated to Sadako Sasaki and all young people who suffered from illnesses due to radiation poisoning. Near the Victims Memorial Cenotaph, you’ll find the Peace Museum , where you can see pictures and virtual renderings of the day, as well as hear survivor stories. While in Hiroshima, take a day trip from the city and hop on a ferry to Miyajima Island . As you sail across the bay, Itsukushima Shrine’s torii gate will greet you. At high tide, both look as though they’re floating on the water. Make sure there’s enough time in your schedule to explore the island beyond the shrine, as this is one of the three top-most beautiful places in Japan .

VIEW TOURS THAT VISIT HIROSHIMA FOR 2024, 2025 & 2026

6. hokkaido.

must visit spots japan

Things to Do in Hokkaido

Otaru; Otaru Snow Light Path; Otaru Canal; Hokkaido; Where to Visit in Japan; All Japan Tours; Japan Travel Blog;

As gorgeous as Hokkaido is in winter, however, it’s beauty becomes even more apparent in summer . In mid-July, lavender fields bloom in Furano and Biei cities. It's also the best season to explore the island’s untouched natural sites like the Shiretoko Peninsula , Kushiro Marshlands , and Lake Toya . You can still see these places in autumn, but you’ll want to dress warmly. Also, add Sounkyo’s Ginga and Ryusei Waterfalls to your list to see the extraordinary autumn leaves. Spring offers its own merits as the weather slowly reaches higher temperatures. The (very) gradual change in season means the cherry blossoms in places like Matsumae Park and Goryokaku Fort don’t bloom until May!

VIEW TOURS THAT VISIT HOKKAIDO FOR 2024, 2025 & 2026

must visit spots japan

You might know that Kyoto was once the capital of Japan, but did you know that Nara was the first? Nara is the jewel on Japan’s World Heritage Site crown and boasts sightseeing locations that date back to the 6th century. The most impressive among them, though, is Todaiji Temple . According to legend, Emperor Shomu commissioned the construction of Todaiji after a slew of disasters and epidemics, and millions of citizens came to help. Since its founding in 738 CE, it has housed the world’s biggest bronze Giant Buddha and was the largest wooden building until 1998. As you approach the enormous entrance gates in Nara Park , wild shika deer will follow you begging for treats. You can buy specially-formulated biscuits to feed them at the park, and please be careful not to let them munch on any outside food or trash you might be carrying. Also, watch your six around these critters! The brave ones will nip your backside if they’re hungry.

VIEW TOURS THAT VISIT NARA FOR 2024, 2025 & 2026

must visit spots japan

The Japanese say, “Never say ‘ kekko ’ (I’m satisfied) until you’ve seen Nikko !” The little town makes for a convenient day trip from Tokyo that will satisfy your craving for Japanese traditions, breathtaking nature, and historic sites. Start at the UNESCO World Heritage Park, where you can access three incredible sightseeing spots in one area. Toshogu Jingu enshrines the spirit of Tokugawa Ieyasu, who ushered in the culturally defining Edo period. It’s also home to beloved wood carvings such as the Three Wise Monkeys and the Sleeping Cat. Walking through the Sakashitamon Gate, you can climb up to Tokugawa’s mausoleum. A short distance away are Futarasan Shrine and Rinnoji Temple . Markedly different in design, the famous monk Shodo Shonin, who brought Buddhism to Nikko, established both. They both also have exquisite gardens that reach their full glamor in November when the fall foliage turns their most brilliant colors. Before you leave Nikko, stop by the 100-meter high Kegon Falls , which flows out of Lake Chuzenji . Along with the Nachi Falls in Wakayama and the Fukuroda Falls in Ibaraki , it’s one of the most scenic waterfalls in the country. Beautiful all year round, it’s particularly attractive when the maple trees in the surrounding Nikko National Park change colors in mid to late October .

VIEW TOURS THAT VISIT NIKKO FOR 2024, 2025 & 2026

9. kamakura.

must visit spots japan

Once the political center of Japan, Kamakura is a nostalgic town that holds onto the scenes of its height of power. Among its most alluring attractions is Kotokuin Temple’s Great Buddha, which is the second-largest of its kind in Japan. A wooden building once housed the statue, but a tsunami destroyed it in 1495, and the Great Buddha has sat outside ever since. Cherry blossoms surround the grounds in late March and early April . If you’re coming to Japan in summer and looking for a little fun in the sun, you can find some of the best beaches near Tokyo on Enoshima Island. Surfers stay on the mainland, but swimmers and sunbathers cross the footbridge for the exceptional resorts. You can also explore the Benten Kutsu or Iwaya Caves or take in the view from the Sea Candle Observation Tower in the Samuel Cocking Garden.

must visit spots japan

We touched on this town further up the list, but it merits an individual entry. Known for its hot springs , natural scenery, and views of Mount Fuji, Hakone deserves a visit plus an overnight stay! It’s the perfect place to experience spending the night in a ryokan —a traditional Japanese inn. During the day, you can see how Hakone embraces modernity without losing its past. In the Edo Period, it was the entrance to present-day Tokyo, and you can see the paths ancient voyagers took on the Old Tokaido Road and at Hakone Checkpoint. Visitors these days love the Hakone Open-Air Museum , where statues and sculptures complement the surrounding mountains and trees. Being a somewhat rural town, Hakone is lovely to visit in any season for different reasons. Go to Gotemba Peace Park, which explodes in pink during the cherry blossom season. Or take in the sights of the autumn leaves near Lake Ashi. On foggy days in summer, people go to Hakone Shrine to see the imposing buildings suddenly emerge from the mist.

VIEW TOURS THAT VISIT HAKONE FOR 2024, 2025 & 2026

11. himeji castle.

must visit spots japan

At one point in time, Japan had over 5,000 castles ! Unfortunately, many fell during wars or due to fires and natural disasters. Now, there are more than a hundred, but most are recreations. Only twelve “original” castles remain, and Himeji-jo is the most dazzling among them. Also known as the White Heron, Himeji Castle is the epitome of 17th-century architecture and innovation. Walking the labyrinth-like approach to the six-storied main keep, you’ll quickly understand why no army was ever able to demolish it. The sophisticated fortifications of the grounds are one attraction, but the elegant appearance is the other. The magnificent ivory walls seem to become even brighter when cherry blossoms or maples color the grounds. The topmost floor of the main keep has a small shrine, and you can peer out from the top to see other seventy-nine buildings and the surrounding city. To the west of Himeji Castle is Kokoen , a Japanese-style landscape garden added in 1992. Kokoen covers about 350,000 square meters and houses nine different gardening styles that are reminiscent of the Edo Period. They employ elements such as reflective ponds, waterfalls, and tea houses where you can enjoy a cup of matcha.

VIEW TOURS THAT VISIT HIMEJI CASTLE FOR 2024, 2025 & 2026

12. kanazawa.

must visit spots japan

These days, Tokyo beats out every city in Japan for being on the cutting edge of current trends. But a few centuries ago, Kanazawa rivaled it in cultural achievements. Luckily, it avoided devastating storms and wars over the years, and you can still see many ancient and well-preserved areas. If you only have time to stop in one place in Kanazawa, don’t miss your opportunity to see Kenrokuen Garden . The Maeda family built Kenrokuen over two centuries, and it is now one of Japan’s top three landscape gardens. While many gardens use several Chinese elements in their designs, Kenrokuen separates itself by employing all of them. For another traditional and atmospheric place, head to the Nagamachi Samurai District . Once a residential sector for middle and upper-class samurai , you can stroll past the hundred-year-old earthen walls on narrow lanes and enter restored homes and businesses. There are also museums with artifacts related to these aristocrats’ daily lives.

VIEW TOURS THAT VISIT KANAZAWA FOR 2024, 2025 & 2026

must visit spots japan

Near here is the Amano-Iwato Shrine , which Japanese mythology references as the place where the Sun Goddess hid and sent the world into a long period of darkness. From November to mid-February, Yokagura Performances reenact this story in different venues around town. We can’t move on without mentioning the Kyushu's springtime flowers. Cherry blossoms bloom around late March and early April, but the main attraction is closer to May when the wisteria flowers open. During this time, the Kawachi Fujien Garden opens to the public, and you can walk through long tunnels with different-colored wisteria hanging down from the tops and sides.

VIEW TOURS THAT VISIT KYUSHU FOR 2024, 2025 & 2026

must visit spots japan

If you’re looking for one of the best places to go skiing in mainland Japan, look no further than here. You might recognize Nagano and the Japan Alps as the site of the 1998 Winter Olympics. But you don’t need to be an athlete to enjoy this prefecture. Soaking in an onsen to relieve stress is one of Japan’s national pastimes, but there’s one thing that can make it even more entertaining— monkeys ! During winter, wild Japanese Macaques in Yudanaka seek out warmth by jumping into hot springs. They used to climb into any old place they could find, including tubs at the nearby ryokans. Now, you can see them at Jigokudani Monkey Park , where they're able to bathe in peace. South of here, you’ll reach Matsumoto. Hands down, the city’s most well-known sightseeing destination is the prominent castle in the center of town. Matsumoto-jo is one of Japan’s twelve original castles and is jet black. A short walk away is the historic Nakamachi District , and you can visit one of Japan's largest wasabi farms in Matsumoto’s suburbs.

15. TAKAYAMA

must visit spots japan

The secluded Takayama retains much of its 17th-century charm. As you walk around the beautifully preserved Old Town , you’ll pass homes, cafes, and breweries that opened centuries ago. Near here, you can also find Takayama Jinya , which was a government outpost from 1692-1960. You can also go shopping at the Morning Market , where you’ll find food and souvenirs. Spring and autumn are the most lively times of year to visit, as the town prepares for its seasonal celebrations. The Sanno Spring Festival (April 14th-15th) and Hachiman Autumn Festival (October 9th-10th) are the pride and joy of the little mountain town. During both events, the locals pull wooden floats through the streets during the day and again at night. You’ll notice that marionettes adorn the tops of several of the floats, and you can watch them “perform” in the afternoon. In the evening, the floats come out again, but this time with glowing paper lanterns. If you miss the festival, you can see the floats at the Takayama Matsuri Yaitai Kaikan all year round.

VIEW TOURS THAT VISIT TAKAYAMA FOR 2024, 2025 & 2026

16. shirakawago.

must visit spots japan

The historic Shirakawago Village is a powerful testament to humankind’s ability to adapt to harsh environments. The remote mountains that span Gifu and Toyama Prefectures get heavy snowfalls that would be unliveable, if not for generations of engineering prowess. The farmhouses have thatched roofs that don’t use any nails. But, they’re able to withstand the snow because of their architecture. Gassho-zukuri style refers to how the sides of the steep roofs come together like hands in prayer. The shape made it possible for residents to live on the first floors, and have room for cultivating silkworms in the attic. Some of the farmhouses are over 250-years-old, which led to their inscription on UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites . No matter when you go, the natural landscape of the mountain comes alive in the seasons. However, there is something slightly magical about seeing them under a blanket of snow. If you want an immersive experience into the lives of the people who lived here, some farmhouses are available for booking overnight stays.

VIEW TOURS THAT VISIT SHIRAKAWAGO FOR 2024, 2025 & 2026

17. naoshima.

must visit spots japan

Naoshima is the place to go for contemporary Japanese art . The sandy island has a rural and almost Mediterranean atmosphere with its beaches and sunny weather. As you ferry across the Seto Inland Sea, Yayoi Kusama’s Red Pumpkin statue pops out to welcome you. You can find a similar sculpture at the Benesse House , which is part art museum and part luxury hotel. The complex comprises of four buildings that architect Tadao Ando designed. Overnight guests can get after-hours access to the museum, and original pieces decorate every accommodation. Tadao Ando also designed the Chichu Art Museum , and the architecture is just as stunning as the artwork. Most of the facilities are underground, and they only use natural light for illumination. Inside, you’ll find pieces by Claude Monet, James Turrell, and temporary exhibits. The Lee Ufan Museum , another Tadao Ando creation, opened in 2010 for the Setouchi Triennale festival. It features works that span Lee Ufan’s career, who is a Korean artist that teaches in Japan. The outside of the museum features Ufan’s large installations made of stone, iron, and concrete, and you can also see a few of his paintings inside.

VIEW TOURS THAT VISIT NAOSHIMA FOR 2024, 2025 & 2026

must visit spots japan

If you love sightseeing boats, head to either Geibikei Gorge or Matsushima Bay . A gentle river flows through the Geibikei Gorge, allowing for small gondolas to safely ride over the shallow areas. Matsushima Bay is one of Japan’s top three most scenic areas. Over 260 pine-covered islands dot the water, and you can choose to take long or short trips. For sightseeing locations that are gorgeous at any time of year, you can’t go wrong by making a trip to Chusonji Temple . Most of the original buildings burned down years ago, but thankfully, the golden Konjikido Hall is still around. Also, don’t miss Tohoku’s castles like Morioka-jo and Tsuruga-jo , both of which are iconic places for seeing cherry blossoms.

VIEW TOURS THAT VISIT TOHOKU FOR 2024, 2025 & 2026

19. mount koya (koyasan).

must visit spots japan

Mount Koya is a profoundly significant religious site in Japan. It serves as the center of Shingon Buddhism, which is a blend of Japan’s major religions: Shintoism and Buddhism. It’s a sought-after destination for pilgrims, and many temples offer lodging for wearing travelers. Among its UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the one that any traveler should put at the top of their list is Kongobuji Temple . Toyotomi Hideyoshi constructed it to commemorate his mother. Visitors can enjoy cups of tea inside of its traditional tatami rooms or stroll through the rock garden, which is the largest of its kind in Japan. Okunoin Temple also stands as a memorial for some of Japan’s most historically influential figures. Feudal lords such as Oda Nobunaga, Takeda Shingen, and Date Masamune made Okunoin their final resting places. The founder of Shingon Buddhism, Kukai, also has a mausoleum here. If you’re interested in learning more about Shingon Buddhism’s development, visit Garan . According to tradition, Kukai threw a ceremonial tool from China, and it landed where this temple complex now stands. The two most prominent buildings are the 45-meter-tall pagoda and Kondo Hall, where monks hold ceremonies.

VIEW TOURS THAT VISIT KOYASAN FOR 2024, 2025 & 2026

20. kurashiki.

must visit spots japan

During the Edo Period, picturesque Kurashiki was at the center of Japan’s rice distribution. Its canals and storehouses were critical in keeping the citizens of Osaka and Tokyo well fed. These days, you can take a gondola ride on the willow-lined canal, or browse through the old storehouses. Though they still have their original black-and-white facades, they now house shops, cafes, and museums. The most impressive of the canal area’s museums is the Ohara Museum of Art . Unlike most of the businesses in the area, it isn’t a converted warehouse, but it was the first Western art museum in Japan. The Main Gallery includes pieces by artists such as Picasso, Monet, and Rodin. You can find works by multiple Japanese artists in the Annex, and an entire building dedicated to European-trained painter Kojima Torajiro.

VIEW TOURS THAT VISIT KURASHIKI FOR 2024, 2025 & 2026

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

  • Published on : 05/08/2019
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Vue sur le mont Fuji

Discovering Japan: activities and places not to be missed!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Vue sur la baie de Tokyo depuis Odaiba

View of Tokyo Bay from Odaiba

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

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

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

  • tokyo skytree

Roppongi Hills Mori Tower

Tokyo City Hall

Sunshine 60

La Tokyo Skytree

The Tokyo Skytree

Kyoto: Cultural and Spiritual Capital

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

  • To the East

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

Le Kiyomizu dera

The Kiyomizu dera

jamie nakamura

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

Pavillon d'Or - Kinkakuji

Golden Pavilion - Kinkakuji

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

Bambouseraie d'Arashiyama

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

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

Temple Daigoji

Daigo-ji Temple

Patrick Vierthaler

  • In the center

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

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

Geisha

Must-sees in Japan in the middle of nature

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

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

Cerf à Nara

Deer in Nara

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

  • The Japanese Alps

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

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

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

must visit spots japan

The Miyajima Gate

A little history

  • Visit Hiroshima

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

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

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

Château d'Himeji

Himeji Castle

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

To read: Preparing for your first trip to Japan

Discover our activities in Japan with a French-speaking guide!

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8 Must-Stop Places on a Trip Around Japan

Visit both well-loved and lesser-known places on your next japan trip..

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Shot of of building in Gion/downtown area of Kyoto

Kyoto is one of Japan’s must-visit places.

Photo by Jessie Beck

Since May 2023 , travelers to Japan have no longer been needing a COVID test or proof of vaccination to travel there. Tourists are back in full force— nearly 2 million foreign leisure and business visitors visited the country in April 2023. According to AFAR’s Jessie Beck , who visited in May, the sheer amount of visitors can feel overwhelming. (A couple of tips: Plan to make restaurant reservations months in advance for upscale eateries and explore more well-known cities, like Kyoto , in the early morning before the crowds come.)

But Japan’s strong culture of hospitality, attention to detail, reliable public transport, hot springs , and cuisine still make it worth visiting, even during peak season. With the weak yen , it is a bargain.

Whether you want to visit Tokyo or one of Japan’s lesser-known places , here are eight of the best to consider on your next trip.

Crowds pass below colorful signs in Akihabara. The historic electronics district has evolved into a shopping area for video games, anime, manga, and computer goods.

Since the late 19th century, Tokyo has been the capital of Japan.

Photo by Sean Pavone/Shutterstock

Ever since it reopened, Tokyo has lured travelers with new attractions like the 2023-opened Tokyu Kabukicho Tower , Japan’s largest hotel and entertainment complex. But walk around for a distinct feel for some of Tokyo’s neighborhoods: Omotesando for fashion, Broadway Nakano for pop subculture, Asakusa for traditional culture, and Ginza for shopping.

One thing not to miss is Tsukiji Market , an area that brings in vendors selling fresh seafood and small bites both raw and grilled. (Note that the part of the market where fish auctions take place has moved a couple of miles away to Toyosu.) There are food halls in the basement of many department stores, known as depachika .

Where to stay

  • Book now: Hoshinoya Tokyo

To experience Japanese culture in a way that evokes the five senses, head to the Hoshinoya Tokyo . AFAR senior deputy editor Jennifer Flowers recommends the stay in part for its atmosphere, which includes elements like woven tatami flooring and live traditional music in the reception lounge.

Left picture displays boat sailing through the Arashiyama district, right picture displays a lantern from around the Gion/downtown area of Kyoto

There’s plenty to explore in Japan’s former capital, from the boats of the Arashiyama district to the nightlife of Kyoto’s downtown area.

Photos by Jessie Beck

Travelers have long visited the former capital of Japan to see its temples and shrines, the golden pavilion at Kinkakuji, and the rock garden at Ryoanji. Go deeper by walking down its narrow alleys, where small independently owned shops offer handcrafted wares like copper tea caddies at Kaikadō or shibori-dyed scarves at Bunzaburo. Along with whisky and sake , Kyoto is famous for tea, so visit the Ippodo tea shop or take a 30-minute train ride to the Uji tea district, where tea is harvested.

  • Book now: Ace Hotel

Kyoto became home to Asia’s first Ace Hotel when it opened in June 2020. AFAR contributor Adam Graham notes that the 213-room stay offers the “vintage brickwork, big windows, and lofty ceilings that you’d expect from Seattle-born Ace.”

Early morning shoppers peruse fresh seafood at the the Omicho Market.

Omicho Market has been a part of Kanazawa for more than three centuries.

3. Kanazawa, Ishikawa

Take a 3.5-hour trip northwest from Tokyo by rail and land in Kanazawa, a port city on the Sea of Japan famous for its seafood: the nodoguro black throat perch and shiro ebi white shrimp. After eating some of the daily catch at places like Omicho Market , carefully peruse the lacquerware and vibrant Kutaniyaki porcelain—this regional capital in Japan’s west also has a rich history of arts and crafts.

Many of Kanazawa’s major sites are all within walking distance, including the Kenroku-en Garden . (It is one of the “Three Great Gardens of Japan” from the Edo period that exemplifies the garden design of that time.)

  • Book now: Hyatt Centric

Conveniently located next to the station, the Hyatt Centric hotel’s rooftop bar has memorable views of the city.

Matsushima, Japan coastal landscape from Mt. Otakamori

Matsushima is about half an hour outside of Sendai.

4. Sendai, Miyagi

The gateway to the northern Tōhoku region, Sendai offers a short train ride into the mountains to visit the Nikka Miyagikyo whisky distillery (be sure to make a reservation for a visit). Farther along on the same train tracks is Yamadera, a Buddhist temple at the top of a small mountain with scenic views of the surrounding valley.

An especially popular day trip is to Matsushima, literally “pine tree island.” Matsushima has been a muse for artists and poets for hundreds of years and is one of Japan’s top scenic spots. The bay is dotted with more than 250 islands covered with pine trees that are best witnessed from a ferry. Near the ferry terminal are two historic temples: Entsuin and Zuiganji.

  • Book now: The Westin Sendai

The Westin is in one of Sendai’s tallest buildings. It is about a 10-minute walk from the station and offers spacious rooms.

Long exposure of Floating Torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine at Miyajima, Hiroshima (gate sign reads Itsukushima Shrine)

Depending on when you visit, the red torii gate by Itsukushima Shrine could look like it’s floating in water.

Photo by Pajor Pawel/Shutterstock

5. Hiroshima

Make time for a contemplative and quiet visit to the Peace Memorial Park and Museum to see the A-Bomb Dome , a memorial where the atomic bomb was dropped during World War II. But Hiroshima also has historic sites that survived, such as Hiroshima Castle and Shukkei-en Garden, once the home of Emperor Meiji in the 19th century. Hiroshima’s local cuisine includes oysters, a savory Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki pancake filled with noodles, and a local style of shiru nashi spicy ramen with very little soup.

Take a 30-minute scenic Sanyo train ride from Hiroshima’s center to Miyajimaguchi Station, where a 10-minute ferry leads visitors to a massive red torii gate. This landmark in the bay marks the entrance to the colorful Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island. At high tide, the red gate will appear to be floating in water; at low tide, visitors can walk to the gate.

  • Book now: Simose Art Garden Villa

The Simose Art Garden Villas, one of AFAR’s best hotels to book in Japan , is both an art complex and resort. The getaway opened in April 2023, featuring 10 villas (5 “Waterside villas” and 5 “Forest villas”) and a restaurant.

Left photo displays soba noodles at a restaurant, right photo displays view of Mt Yotei from Niseko's ski slopes

Hit Niseko’s ski slopes, then warm up with some soba noodles at places like Teuchi-Soba Ichimura .

6. Niseko, Hokkaido

Skiers and snowboarders descend on Niseko each winter for the fresh powder. Due to its geography, the area is famous for its perfect, dry snow. So many tourists come to ski that English is more likely to be heard on the streets than Japanese during ski season.

There are four major ski resort areas to explore: Annupuri, Hanazono, Hirafu, and Niseko Village. AFAR’s Jessie Beck notes that Niseko’s ski area, in particular, has an après-ski scene for many types of travelers—from an evening soak in an onsen to a rowdy night out.

  • Book now: Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono

Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono has ski-in and ski-out access, several restaurants, and luxurious rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows.

Matsumoto City Museum of Art built in 2002. Museum specialized are installations and paintings by Japanese artists

Get immersed in Matsumoto’s colorful culture at the Matsumoto City Museum of Art.

Photo by cowardlion/Shutterstock

7. Matsumoto, Nagano

Arts and crafts define this city. Visit the Japan Ukiyo-e Museum , the largest collection of Japanese woodblock prints in the nation. The Mingei-kan Museum showcases Mingei traditional folk crafts, and the Matsumoto City Museum of Art has a permanent exhibit of Yayoi Kusama , a Matsumoto native. Matsumoto, in the heart of the Japanese Alps, is also home to Matsumoto Castle , which is a designated national treasure.

On the way back to Tokyo, consider a day trip to Suwa, just south of Matsumoto, to visit several of the sake breweries, including Masumi, founded in 1662.

  • Book now: Matsumoto Hotel Kagetsu

The Mingei culture of traditional crafts is at the heart of the Matsumoto Hotel Kagetsu with pieces throughout the hotel and in some of the rooms. Matsumoto’s oldest hotel, it also has hot springs on the property.

Young people celebrating a sake festival in the old town of Hida Takayama, Japan on November 14, 2010

Don’t miss out on celebrations like the sake festival in Hida Takayama.

Photo by PIXEL to the PEOPLE/Shutterstock

8. Hida Takayama, Gifu

Hida Takayama can be reached via Japan Rail Hida limited express train from Nagoya station. The ride on the train is scenic as it follows a blue river winding into the Japanese Alps north of Nagoya. Its historic old town, Furui Machi Nami, retains the charms of days gone by; the morning market is one of the biggest in Japan.

Near Hida Takayama is Shirakawa Village , a World Heritage site, famous for its wooden homes with thatched roofs.

  • Book now: Honjin Hiranoya

A stay at this traditional Japanese ryokan includes dinner and breakfast, with local specialties like Hida wagyu beef. The area is known for its onsen hot springs, ideal for a long soak after a day of sightseeing.

Hot air balloons floating over high desert peaks in Cappadocia

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20 Must-Visit Places for Tourists in Japan

Steeped in history, Japan has a rich culture that everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime. With its stunning landscapes and impressive city skylines, there is so much to see and do.

As a tourist, you may only have a short time to pack in as much as possible. To help you make the most of your time and experience the very best Japan has to offer, we break down our 25+ must-visit tourist attractions in Japan .

Discover locations and prices, as well as expert tips such as how to beat the crowds!

1. Mount Fuji

Mount Fuji is one of Japan’s most famous tourist attractions and arguably one of the most impressive. The highest peak in Japan, Mount Fuji reaches 3776m above sea level. It is so tall that it can be seen from Tokyo, over 100km away!

With a relatively flat landscape on either side, Mount Fuji’s symmetrical cone shape makes it stand out in the landscape for stunning panoramas. Its beauty has inspired art and poetry for centuries, as well as being one of the three holy mountains and a religious pilgrimage for those of the Shinto and Buddhist faiths.

There are 4 trails up Mount Fuji, each with its own trailhead. Trails start at the 5th station, although the mountain is split into 10 stations overall. Open between July and September, the climbing season can be a very busy time, with around 300,000 visitors each year .

To beat the crowds, try to visit Mount Fuji during the first 3 weeks of July, or in September. This is generally the quietest time however, please note it may still be very busy.

Not a climber? Visit Lake Kawaguchiko instead for unrivalled views of the mountain, or take the Tokyo to Kyoto bullet train on a clear day!

Opening Times: Opening times often differ by trial however, the open season for climbing above the 5th station is generally between July and September.

  • 1,000 yen per person to enter trials during the climbing season
  • 35,000 – 45,000 yen per person to climb Mount Fuji with a guide and overnight stay in a mountain hut
  • 1,000 – 1,500 yen per cylinder for oxygen cylinders
  • 10,000 – 40,000 yen for equipment rental for 2 days

2. Animal Islands

Japan features a number of animal islands; the perfect tourist attraction in Japan for animal lovers . Whilst some islands are inhabited by people, as well as wild animals, others have been completely left to the animals. You can visit cat, rabbit, monkey, sheep, horse, deer and even dolphin islands!

Some of the most famous animal islands include Tashiro, Ōkunoshima and Kou Island. Tashiro Island has around 100 wild cats versus just 60 human inhabitants. Ōkunoshima has around 900 wild rabbits, whilst Kou Island has over 100 wild monkeys.

Reaching the different animal islands can generally be done so via road or ferry. Animal islands are generally enjoyable to visit year-round but for mild, pleasant weather, consider visiting in April. Can’t get to an island? Try a Japanese animal cafe !

Opening Times: Year round

Price: Ferry/travel costs vary by island

3. Naoshima (Art Island)

Located in the Seto Inland Sea (near rabbit island), Naoshima, or ‘Art Island’ as it has come to be known, is a growing tourist destination . Featuring open-air artworks, over 18 galleries and museums, as well as ocean views, Naoshima is the perfect place to spend a day or two.

Whilst art island can be seen in a day, you might find you’re a little rushed so staying overnight in one of the many hotels is recommended. The island also features interesting architecture and an abundance of small cafes and eateries.

To reach Art Island, take the ferry from Honshu. Once on the island, you can get around via local buses and electric bicycles. Exhibits are generally closed on a Monday so make sure to plan your visit accordingly.

Famous artworks on the island include the Red and Yellow Pumpkins by Yayoi Kusama. The Benesse Art site also features works from world-renowned artists including Warhol, Hockney and Basquiat.

Opening Times: Exhibits generally open from Tuesday – Sunday

Price: Fees vary by gallery

  • Art House Project – 1,030 yen (opening hours: 10:00 – 16:30)
  • The Benesse House – 1,030 yen (opening hours: 8:00 – last entry 20:00)
  • The Lee Ufan Museum – 1,030 yen (opening hours: 10:00 – last entry 17:30)
  • The Chichu Art Museum – 2,060 yen (opening hours: 10:00 – last entry 17:00)
  • I Luv Yu – 510 yen

4. Osaka Castle

Built in 1586 by famous warrior and politician, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, Osaka Castle was once the largest fortress in the country . Destroyed in 1615, the castle was rebuilt in 1620 but subsequently burnt down in 1665 after being struck by lightning.

It was then not rebuilt until 1931, after which it miraculously survived city-wide air raids during the war. The current structure remains true to that rebuilt in 1931, although it was refurbished inside in 1997 and now exhibits displays relating to the history of the castle and surrounding area.

It features an impressive five-story main tower, surrounded by secondary citadels, turrets, gatehouses, castle walls and a moat. Make sure to visit the top floor for spectacular views over Osaka!

The castle is also set on beautiful grounds with many Cherry Blossom trees. Access to Nishinomaru Garden does require an admission fee, however. Osaka has a pleasant climate all year round, but we recommend visiting in the spring to witness the Cherry Blossoms in full bloom!

Opening Times: Open Tuesday – Sunday, 9:00 to 17:00 (last entry 16:30)

  • Castle Tower – 600 yen
  • Nishinomaru Garden – 200 yen

5. Jigokudani Yahen-Koen (Snow Monkey Park)

Sitting at an altitude of 850 meters, the Jigokudani Yahen-Koen, or simply the Snow Monkey Park, is located in the Valley of Yokoyu River. The river is sourced from Shiga-Kogen, in the northern part of the Joshinetsu-Kogen National Park.

For a third of the year, the area is covered in deep snow, with steam billowing up from natural springs dotted around the steep cliffs. It’s the bubbling steaming springs that gave the area its name, Jigokudani, meaning “Hell’s Valley”. This hostile, yet picturesque, environment of lush forest provides a haven for the Japanese macaque – one of Japan’s coolest animals !

In the daytime, hundreds of macaques descend the steep cliffs to relax, warm up, and socialise in the hot springs, and it’s this natural wonder that attracts many human visitors every year .

The park is open all year round, but, if you’d like to catch the Snow Monkeys in the snow for an Instagram picture worthy of a place in National Geographic, the best months to go are between December and March.

To access Snow Monkey Park, visitors must trek up a 2km (1.2 miles) footpath through the dense forest. Although the walk may be enough to put some people off, the experience of observing this natural wonder, up close, far outweighs the effort it takes to get there.

If you, or one of your companions, have difficulty walking, there are also bus services to Kanabayashi Onsen, just 15 minutes away from the Monkey Park.

 You can catch them from:

  • Yukanaka Station (310 yen, 2 buses every hour)
  • Shibu Onsen (190 yen, 2 buses every hour)
  • Nagano Station (1500 yen, 4-10 buses per day)

Opening times: Monday-Friday: 8:30am-5pm

6. Okinawa Churami Aquarium

Considered one of the largest and most spectacular aquariums in the world , Okinawa Churami Aquarium, part of the Ocean Expo Park, is located on the coast of Motobu Peninsula.

Opened in 1975 and rebuilt in 2002, the four-floor aquarium is home to around 680 species of marine life. It hosts tanks so big that they can display the whale shark, which can measure up to almost 9 meters in length, amongst other large and rare species.

If you want to get up close and personal with the many interesting species of sea creatures that the aquarium has to offer, make sure you’re around for feeding time. Feeding takes place three times a day, 9:30am, 3pm and 5pm, at the Kuroshio Sea tank.

Considering the size of the aquarium, you might be wondering whereabouts the Kuroshio Sea tank is, so you don’t miss out on the spectacular spectacle. The tank is the biggest in the aquarium, and the main attraction for thousands of visitors a year, home to the beautiful whale sharks. So, you can either use or map or simply follow the crowds.

Opening times: The aquarium, and surrounding park, is open Monday-Friday, 8:30am to 6pm.

Admission fees before 4pm:

  • Adults – 2,180 yen
  • High School Students – 1,440 yen
  • Elementary/Junior School Students – 710 yen
  • Children Under 6 – Free

Admission fees after 4pm:

  • Adults – 1,510 yen
  • High School Students – 1,000 yen
  • Elementary/Junior School Students – 490 yen

7. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Hiroshima Peach Memorial Park is one of the most prominent and sombre features of the Japanese city . It’s dedicated to the city of Hiroshima , the first city to suffer the consequences of nuclear weapons, at the hands of the Americans, at the end of the Second World War.

The picturesque park is built on top of the site where the bomb fell and detonated, wiping out 67% of the city’s structures, and killing 70,000 to 135,000 people. Where there was once nothing but a crater of rubble and radioactive debris, there now stands clusters of trees, lawns of kept grass, and long walking paths.

At the head of the park is the main facility, the Peace Memorial Museum. The Museum focuses on the events that unfolded as a result of the bomb, and its result on the surviving citizens of Hiroshima.

Standing to the side of the museum is what’s left of the Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall. Now known as the A-Bomb Dome, it’s one of the few structures to withstand the blast, although a skeleton of what it once was. What’s left of the structure stands as a tangible, historical link to Japan’s difficult history with nuclear attack.

Although a sombre and, at times, distressing experience, it’s a poignant feature of Hiroshima’s history and culture that draws over a million visitors every year.

How to get there:

  • The best way to get to the Peace Memorial Park and museum is by tram. Take tram line 2 or 6 from Hiroshima Station to the Genbaku-Domu Mae stop. 220 yen.

Opening hours:

  • The park itself is open to the public 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
  • The Peace Memorial Museum is open from 8:30am to 6pm, with some exceptions. Until August, the closing time is 7pm, and, from December, the closing time is 5pm.

8. Tokyo Imperial Palace

Tokyo Imperial Palace (or, Koyo , meaning ‘Imperial Residence’) is the residence of Japan’s Imperial Family, located in a large park, formerly the site of Edo Castle, surrounded by large moats, stone walls and beautiful gardens.

In 1868, the imperial residence was moved from Kyoto to the current site in Tokyo, after the Tokugawa shogun was overthrown, and Edo Castle was torn down in its wake. Construction of the new Imperial Palace was completed in 1888. Although, it was completely destroyed by the Americans in World War II, and rebuilt in the same style after the war was over.

The palace was opened to the public in 1968, and, for the last 50+ years, visitors have been able to walk through the palace grounds , and absorb the history that lies there.

A particularly popular feature of the grounds is the Nijubashi, two grand stone bridges that provide entrance to the inner private palace grounds. Visible from the large plaza in front of the palace, Kokyo Gaien, the first bridge in view is called Meganebashi, meaning ‘Eyeglass Bridge’, named after its beautiful architecture and picturesque surroundings. The second bridge, Nijubashi, was formerly wooden with two levels, which gave it its name meaning ‘Double Bridge’.

75-minute guided tours of the Imperial Palace are available all year round, held in English and Japanese, at 10AM and 1:30PM.

Rare access to the private inner palace grounds on 2nd January, for New Year’s Greeting, and 23rd February for the Emperor’s Birthday. On these Japanese holiday dates , Naruhito (the current Emperor at the time of writing) and his family make exclusive public appearances on a balcony overlooking the inner grounds to greet visitors.

  • The Imperial Palace is a short walk – around 10 minutes – from Tokyo Station.
  • The palace grounds are open, with free admission , Tuesday-Friday in two daily time slots.
  • 9-11:15AM, 1:30-2:45PM.

9. Tsukiji Jōgai Shijō (Tsukiji Outer Market)

Nestled just a short way from Tokyo Imperial Palace lies the bustling district of Tsukiji Outer Market. It’s made up of a few blocks, home to a range of wholesale, retail shops, restaurants and more.

The narrow lanes make for an immersive cultural experience, putting you right at the heart of everyday life in Japan. You can find fresh produce, used to make the fresh sushi found at a number of restaurants in the vicinity, and a range of professional Japanese kitchen knives amongst other products.

Most restaurants in the market open at 5am and close in the early afternoon, so it’s a great spot to find breakfast and lunch.

  • From Tokyo station, jump on the Marunouchi Subway Line to Ginza, and then transfer to the Hibiya Subway Line, and get off at Tsukihi Station. The fare totals around 170 yen.
  • From Shinjuku Station, take the Oedo Subway Line directly to Tsukiji Shijo Station. This trip costs around 280 yen.

Opening times: Typically 5am to 2pm.

10. Fushimi Inari-taisha

Located in Fushimi-ku, Kyoto, Fushimi Inari-taisha is a Shinto shrine, important to the people of southern Kyoto and famous around the world for its visually breathtaking features.

The head shrine sits at the base of a mountain, also named Inari, which has multiple trails up its 233-meter incline leading to a series of smaller sub-shrines, taking approximately 3 hours to ascend, and descend. It’s one of the best things to do in Kyoto .

Even if you don’t know of the ancient Shinto shrine by name, you will most likely have seen pictures of it. It’s famous for its stunning vermilion torii gates , thousands of which straddle the weave of trails behind the main building, turning the stone paths into bright orange tunnels.

Dotted around the grounds, you’ll see many iconic fox statues with a key in their mouths. Foxes are regarded as the messengers of Inari, and the key is a symbol of the keys to the door of the bountiful rice granary.

Fushimi Inari-taisha, one of the thousands of shrines in honour of Inari, the Shinto god of rice and agriculture, is by far the most important, and, quite possibly, the longest surviving. The origins of the shrine stretch back to 711, long before the capital’s relocation to Kyoto in 794, but was moved to its current location in 816 and the main structure was finished in 1499.

  • Fushimi Inari-taisha is located just 5 minute’s train ride away from Kyoto Station.
  • Take the JR Nara Line, and get off at the second stop, JR Inari Station (150 yen, one way).

Opening times: The shrine is open to the public every day, at all hours, free of charge.

11. Dotonbori

The Dotonbori district is a dazzling trip for the senses. Built around the Dotonbori Canal, the area is home to a tantalising variety of restaurants and bars, eccentric neon lights and signs (synonymous with Japan’s cities), a bustling social scene and evening entertainment.

The district is one of the principal tourist destinations in Osaka  and has been a hit with the locals since its development in the 1600s. The beginnings of the area go back to 1612 when a merchant, Yasui Doton, invested heavily in a local development project to expand the Umezu Rover into a new waterway. The idea was that he wanted to link the local canal network with the Kizugawa River, to create better trading opportunities. However, Doton was killed during the Siege of Osaka in 1615, putting a temporary stop to the project.

When Doton’s cousin finished the canal, in his honour, later the same year, the new waterway did exactly as Doton had planned – the area boomed. With the canal acting as a trade route, goods became easily available. And, over the next 50 years, an increasing amount of businesses such as restaurants, tea houses, and theatres lined the banks, and brought crowds of tourists to the streets of Dotonbori for entertainment and socialising.

Now, Dotonbori is considered to be the best place to go in Osaka for food and drink – and the people of Osaka have a deep-rooted passion for food! Here are some of the most popular, and famous, restaurants to try in Dotonbori.

Cui-daoré

Covering eight stories, this restaurant was founded in 1949, and is home to a different kind of Osaka cuisine on each floor.

Opened in Dotonbori in 1948, Hariju is one of the most famous beef restaurants in Japan.

Kani Douraku

An incredibly popular crab restaurant. Kani Douraku is difficult to miss – just look for the giant robot crab above the door!

  • The food and entertainment area of the Dotonbori district lies between the Daikokubashi and Nippombashi bridges, in the South district of Osaka.
  • Travel to the Namba Subway Station, and your destination is only a four-minute walk away.

Opening times: Most restaurants and entertainment establishments are open from morning until late evening.

12. Chūbu-Sangaku National Park and the Japanese Alps

Chūbu-Sangaku National Park encompasses some of the most breathtaking sights in Japan . It includes the Northern Japan Alps, a volcanic mountain range of 3000-meter-high peaks, glacial rivers, hot springs and beautiful hiking trails.

The mountain range stretches across Toyama, Nagano and Gifu Prefectures, and popular locations in the Japanese national park include:

A resort located in the Nagano Prefecture, offering incredible mountain scenery along the 15-kilometer plateau in the Azusa River Valley.

Kamikochi is open from 17th April until 15th November.

Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route

Completed in 1971, the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route connects Toyama City (Toyama Prefecture) with Omachi Town (Nagano Prefecture). The route is travelled by public transport including cablecars, trolley buses and ropeway, and provides a unique, beautiful traverse across the Japanese Alps.

The route is open from 15th April to 30th November but is inaccessible in the winter due to heavy, deep snow.

Hakuba is one of Japan’s most popular ski areas. It offers good snow coverage, spectacular views of the Alps, and multiple large ski resorts.

Hakuba hosted a number of competitions during the 1998 Nagan Winter Olympics, gaining worldwide recognition, and enticing tourists to visit its slopes. Some of the facilities built for the 1998 Winter Olympics are still in use, and a museum sits within walking distance from the Hakuba Ski Jumping Stadium.

There are several resorts to choose from, the majority of which are open from November/December until the end of May.

13. Hakone Open-Air Museum

The Hakone Open-Air Museum is a sculpture park that strives to create a balance of nature and art, with abstract works set against a backdrop of valleys, forests and mountains.

Although predominantly an open-air museum, it has various exhibitions and sections located indoors and outdoors. A popular, long-term exhibition is the two-story showcase of the paintings, sculptures and ceramic works of Pablo Picasso , located in the Picasso Exhibition Hall.

The museum offers several more exhibition halls dedicated to various artists, with shops, cafés and kid’s play parks integrated into the art installations.

The museum is closest to Chokoku No Mori Station on the Hakone Tozan Railway line . (Included in the Hakone Free Pass for travel and activities.)

Opening times:

  • 9AM-5PM, 7 days a week
  • Last entry is at 4:30PM, 7 days a week

Admission fees:

  • 1600 yen, standard fee
  • 1400 yen, with the Hakone Free Pass
  • 1500 yen, with an online discount coupon

14. Koyasan Okunoin

Cemeteries aren’t usually at the top of a traveller’s ‘must-see’ list, but Koyasan Okunoin should be an exception among the best tourist places in Japan.

Okunion is one of the most sacred sites across the whole of Japan , and is a popular pilgrimage destination. It is the burial site of Kobo Daishi, the founder of Shingon Buddhism, and one of the most important figures in Japan’s history.

It’s believed that, instead of having died, Daishi rests in an eternal state of meditation. It’s said that he waits for Miroku Nyorai, the Buddha of the Future, and blesses visitors with relief, for those who ask.

Some of the most important people in Japan’s history are buried in the grounds, with over 20,000 monks laid to rest there. As visitors walk through the 2-kilometre cemetery, they will see a number of graves of Japanese lords, dating back to Japan’s feudal era, as well as a modern tombstone erected by a pest control company, in memory of all the termites they have exterminated.

Okunion is tranquil, powerful, beautiful, and well worth a visit.

You can reach Ichinohashi Bridge in a 10-15 minute walk from the Senjuinbashi intersection .

  • Todoro (the Hall of Lanterns) is free to the public , open 7 days a week, all year round, from 6AM-5:30PM .
  • Gokusho Offering Hall is free to the public , open 7 days a week, all year round, from 8:30AM-5PM .

15. Naoshima and Teshima

Offering truly unique cultural experiences, Naoshima and Teshima are Japanese islands located in the Seto Inland Sea, home to a number of contemporary art museums, architectural works and sculptures.

They belong to the Kagawa Prefecture and are part of the Benesse Art Site Naoshima. The collaborative project by Benesse Holdings Inc. and Fukutake Foundations aims to fuse contemporary art and architecture with the natural environment , and the islands’ industrial histories.

The islands offer visitors a tourism experience centred around art and community, an experience that benefits both the tourist and the locals by supporting the existing cultural identities and traditions.

  • Naoshimi has two public ferry ports; Miyanoura on the West side, and Honmura on the East side of the island.
  • Most tourists enter Naoshima through the Miyanoura port, from Takamatsu, Uno and Inujima. On arrival, there is an information center, lockers, bicycle rental, and other transportation hubs.

16. Matsumoto Castle

Grand in both appearance and rich history, Matsumoto Castle stands in the city of Matsumoto, in Nagano Prefecture. It’s one of Japan’s original historic castles, along with Himeji and Kumamoto, and was originally known as Fukashi Castle.

It was completed in the late 16th century and is listed as a National Treasure of Japan , with its original wooden interiors and stone exteriors still intact and in excellent condition. Due to its black exterior, it’s also known as Crow Castle.

The castle consists of its main keep, and a smaller donjon, the original features of both buildings providing a truly authentic experience of walking the floors of a castle frozen in time.

In April, visitors flock to Matsumoto-jō to enjoy the abundance of cherry blossom trees in bloom. A stroll around the spacious grounds and parks, and the blossom trees overhanging the moat that wraps around the castle, is a perfect way to welcome springtime.

  • Tourists can take a 5-minute bus ride on the “Town Sneaker” from the JR Matsumoto Station .
  • Alternatively, the journey from JR Matsumoto Station to Matsumoto Castle can be travelled on foot, taking 15 minutes .
  • 8:30AM to 5PM , last entry at 4:30PM.
  • Closed from 29th to 31st December .

Admission: 700 yen

17. Kinkaku-ji, Temple of the Golden Pavillion

A spectacular feat of architecture and landscaping, the Kinkaku-ji, commonly known as the Golden Pavillion, is, arguably, the most popular attraction in Tokyo and Kyoto .

The Golden Pavillion is a Zen temple, situated in northern Kyoto. It’s named after the stunning wrap of gold leaf covering the top two floors of the structure. It’s classified as a National Special Historical Site, as well as a National Special Landscape, and is one of only 17 sites that make up the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto, making it a World Heritage Site.

Originally, it was called Rokuonji, and was used as a retirement villa for Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, but became a temple after his death in 1408. The building overlooks a large, serene pond, and lush gardens that spread out from the temple.

Nestled amongst the trees and paths of the gardens is Sekkatei Teahouse. Visitors can enjoy matcha tea and a selection of sweet treats while they sit and take in the natural surroundings. Sekkatei Teahouse marks the end of the paid temple area. Beyond the border, there are souvenir shops, and Fudo Hall, a small temple which houses the statue of Fudo Myoo, carved by one of the most important figures in Japanese history.

  • From Kyoto Station, visitors can catch a bus (either 101, or 205) for 230 yen , and arrive at Kinkaku-ji in approximately 40 minutes.
  • There is also the option of the Karasuma Subway Line, from Kyoto Station to Kitaoji Station , which takes 15 minutes, at 260 yen.
  • 9AM-5PM, Monday-Sunday.
  • Open all year round.

Admission fees: 400 yen

18. Kenroku-en Garden

There is no finer demonstration of the art of Japanese gardening than the Kenroku-en Garden. Located in Kanazawa, Kenrokuen is a garden designed to make you feel as if you’ve stepped into a painting . It’s classified as one of the three most beautiful gardens in Japan , and has been perfected down to the smallest detail – everything is deliberate.

The garden was developed from the 1620s to some time in the 1840s by the Maeda clan and was opened to the public in 1871. The name ‘Kenroku-en’ means “garden of the six sublimities”, referring to the spaciousness, seclusion, artificiality, antiquity, abundant water, and broad views. These six elements are the core attributes of landscape theory, which become clear as you stroll through the garden.

There are many viewpoints to be enjoyed, including bridges, teahouses, bridges and benches, all providing a unique perspective of the landscape architecture. Thousands of tourists and locals flock to Kenroku-en each year, with one of the most popular times of year being spring, as it’s a beautiful place to witness the first cherry blossoms .

How to get there: Visitors can catch the Kanazawa Loop Bus from Kanazawa Station , which takes about 20 minutes, for 200 yen.

  • From March to October: 7AM-6PM
  • From 16th October to February: 8AM-5PM
  • Open all year round, 7 days a week

Admission: 320 yen, included in the Kenrokuen Plus One Ticket

19. Itsukushima Shrine

The Itsukushima Shrine is a centuries-old Shinto shrine off the coast of Itsukushima, famous for its “floating” torii gate . The island is in the western part of the Inland Island Sea of Japan, and is popularly known as Miyajima, meaning “Shrine island”.

Itsukushima Shrine is said to have been first erected in 593, during the reign of Empress Suiko. It’s dedicated to the three daughters of Susano-o no Mikoto, known collectively as the “three female deities”, goddesses of the seas and storms.

The island is a short boat ride away from Hiroshima Bay and is home to a number of temples, and stunning scenery. In the spring, cherry blossoms bloom across its hillsides, and in the autumn, the hills are coloured with burnt orange maple leaves.

Tourists can take a thirty-minute cruise to take in the picturesque Miyajima Island.

The cruise takes passengers around Hiroshima Bay and through the torii gate, when the tide is high enough. In low tide, the base of the shire, and the sand plane it’s built into become visible, and visitors have the opportunity to see the gate up close.

How to get there: The shrine is a ten-minute walk from the Miyajima ferry pier.

  • March to October – 6:30AM to 6PM
  • January through February, and October through November – 6:30AM to 5:30PM
  • December – 6:30AM to 5PM

Admission fees: 300 yen

20. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is one of Tokyo’s largest and most visited parks . The district itself is a popular hotspot for Tokyo nightlife , restaurants, and shopping, but Shinjuku Gyoen steals the spotlight.

It was landscaped in the Edo Period, between 1603 and 1868, and belonged to a feudal lord who resided in Tokyo. Over the years, it’s transformed from private property to a botanical garden, to the private property of the Imperial Family in 1903, and to a public park for all to enjoy its beauty.

Shinjuku Gyoen comprises three different types of gardens.

Japanese Landscape Garden

This garden is the oldest and most traditional to the art of Japanese gardening. It features a pond, with small islands and bridges, traditionally manicured shrubbery, several pavilions and trees.

French Garden

The French garden is traditional in landscape architecture, with great care and precision taken to arrange it into a symmetrical fashion.

English Garden

Characterised by large, open lawns, surrounded by cherry trees and flowers.

Other features include forested areas, winding pathways, a restaurant, and tropical/sub-tropical greenhouse.

  • There are three gates and provide access to Shinjuku Gyoen.
  • Shinjuku Gate is a 10-minute walk from JR Shinjuku STation (New South Exit), or 5 minutes from Shinjukugyoenmae Station.
  • Okido Gate is a 5-minute walk from Shinjukugyoenmae Station.
  • Sendagaya Gate is a 5-minute walk from JR Sendagaya Station.
  • March through June, and August through September – 9AM-6PM
  • July through August – 9AM-7PM
  • October through March – 9AM-4:30PM

Admission: 500 yen

So there you have it, 20 of the best destinations in Japan for tourists to visit ! If you’re interested in seeing some of Japan’s top attractions, why not consider working here ?

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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.

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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

Tokyo is one of the best places to visit in 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

Kyoto is among the best places to visit in Japan

Image Credit: veronica111886 for Pixabay

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

Nara is one of the best places to visit in Japan

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

mt. fuji is among the best places to visit in Japan

Image Credit: kimura2 for Pixabay

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

hokkaido is one of the best places to visit in Japan

Image Credit: fisag for Pixabay

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

Ishigaki is among the best places to visit in Japan

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

Hiroshima is among the best places to visit in Japan

Image Credit: chaliceks for Pixabay

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.

Suggested Read: Godzilla Theme Park In Japan

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8. Sapporo – Forget The Heat And Humidity

sapporo is among the best places to visit in Japan

Image Credit: chaos_sun for Pixabay

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

Osaka is one of the best places to visit in Japan

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.

Suggested Read: This Hidden Forest House In Japan

10. Yakushima – Naturally Gifted

Yakushima is one of the best places to visit in Japan

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

hakuba is one of the best places to visit in Japan

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

bronze buddha in kamakura

Image Credit: PublicDomainPictures for Pixabay

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

Nagano is among the best places to visit in Japan

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

Kawaguchi is among the best places to visit in Japan

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

Takayama is one of the best places to visit in Japan

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

people crossing the road in Japan

Image Credit: cegoh for Pixabay

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

lake view in Naoshima, one of the best places to visit in Japan

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.

Suggested Read: Kyoto Castles

18. Asakusa – For Parties And More

Temple in Japan

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

people walking across the road in Akihabara

Image Courtesy: goodfreephotos.com

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

famous Odaiba decks, one of the best places to visit in Japan

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

marketplace with people rushing

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

beautiful japanese tree bending

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

city view at night

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

famous shrine in Nikko, one of the best places to visit in Japan

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

famous crater lake in Tohoku

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

Kawagoe, Japan

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

Nagoya, Japan

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 

Kanazawa, Japan

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

Shirakawa, Japan

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

Shikoku Japan

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

aerial shot of city lights

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 

buildings and structures with river

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

A building with Japanese architecture

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

Picturesque Lake and Mountains

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

A Lake With a Mountain by its Side

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

Japan Road Trips

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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Tokyo   Travel Guide

must visit spots japan

19 Essential Things to Do in Tokyo + Neighborhoods to Visit

With more than 13 million residents to entertain, Tokyo has a lot going on. Start your morning off with breakfast sushi at the world-famous Tsukiji Outer Market , then let yourself get lost in Japan's vast and interesting history at the Tokyo

  • All Things To Do
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must visit spots japan

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Just to the west of downtown Tokyo lies a gorgeous urban oasis. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden comprises 144 acres of green space and is unique in that it incorporates three landscaping styles – Japanese traditional, French formal and English garden. During the spring, the park gets an extra boost in visitors for its vibrant display of cherry blossoms. If you plan on visiting during this beautiful time, make like a local and come to the park equipped with picnic supplies. Autumn is another popular time to visit thanks to the bright fall foliage, which usually peaks between mid-November and mid-December.

Travelers say the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. Even if you don't have a couple hours to spare for a picnic, visitors say a short stroll is enough to take up the park's peaceful atmosphere. Travelers also report that there are plenty of amenities within the park, including restrooms, places to eat, as well as a greenhouse and teahouse.

must visit spots japan

Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa free

The oldest religious site in Tokyo is also its most visited. The Senso-ji Temple sees about 30 million annual visitors and its inception dates all the way back to year 628. Despite its claim to antiquity, however, the structures that currently stand are relatively new reconstructions of previous edifices (during World War II, nearly the entire temple was razed). The Senso-ji Temple is dedicated to Asakusa Kannon, the Buddhist god of mercy and happiness. According to legend, two fishermen struck gold and found a statue of the god while fishing on the Sumida River. The Senso-ji shrine is dedicated to this lucky catch and features a small homage to the fisherman who caught the statue. Unfortunately, while here, you won't be able to see the actual statue. It is there, but it isn't on public display (it never has been). Either way, Buddhists and interested tourists alike flock to this attraction with the hopes that being in the presence of Kannon's healing powers will rub off on them. After you've properly toured Senso-ji, take some time to check out the shops that line Nakamise Dori, which you'll find on the way to the temple. 

The majority of travelers enjoyed their experience at the Senso-ji Temple, with some saying a visit to Tokyo isn’t complete until make a stop here. Visitors found the temple to be beautiful and enjoyed admiring its grand stature and intricate architectural details. The only complaint among travelers was with the attraction and all the activity surrounding it; Senso-ji can get so crowded that it can be difficult to be able to simply admire the attraction. If you don't want to share space with throngs of tourists, visitors suggest coming early morning or late at night. 

must visit spots japan

Meiji Shrine Meiji Shrine free

The Meiji Shrine is a Shinto (Japan's original religion) shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Japanese history credits Meiji for modernizing Japan by incorporating Western principles into Japanese society, including adopting a cabinet system into government. After the emperor's death in 1912 and that of his consort in 1914, the Japanese commemorated their contributions with the Meiji Shrine. While the buildings are certainly worth visiting, the surrounding forest (considered part of the vast Yoyogi Park) is a sight to see as well. That's because 100,000 of the trees standing were all donated by Japanese people from around the country as a thank you to the emperor.

While at such a sacred site, take time to partake in traditional rituals. When entering the shrine, you'll first see the Torii , or the shrine's large archway. It's traditional to bow once entering, then again when you leave. To foreigners, the Temizusha may appear to be a drinking fountain, but it's actually a cleansing station where visitors have the opportunity to purify themselves with holy water. It's common to wash your hands and rinse your mouth out, but don't drink the water. When approaching the main shrine, it's customary to pay your respects by bowing twice, then clapping your hands twice and bow once again. Carrying out such respects are optional, the rules of the shrine are not. Don't photograph the interior of the buildings; don't eat, drink or smoke unless you're in designated areas.

must visit spots japan

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must visit spots japan

Ueno Park Ueno Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Take a 20-minute walk northwest of Ueno Park to the more than 100,000-square-foot Yanaka Cemetery, the first public burial ground in Tokyo and an oasis of foliage and historical importance. It’s particularly beautiful to visit during cherry blossom season. – Kristin Braswell

Considered the first public park in Tokyo, Ueno is an ideal place for a leisurely stroll in the city. Formerly part of Kaneiji Temple, Ueno Park is now home to the Ueno Zoo (considered Japan's oldest zoo), six museums, a number of shrines and temples, and more than 1,000 cherry blossom trees. During late March and early April, the park’s canopy of cherry blossoms attract visitors from all over the world for hanami parties – which is when people gather under the trees for picnics and socializing. Museums on the grounds include the Tokyo National Museum , the National Museum for Western Art, the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum and the National Science Museum. 

must visit spots japan

Tokyo Tower Tokyo Tower

The Japanese iteration of the Eiffel Tower serves a predominately practical purpose. The orange and white tower, which stands 1,092 feet tall, is a radio and television broadcasting structure supporting 62 miles of frequencies. The tower also caters to tourists, offering two observation decks, one at 490 feet (the main observatory) and one at 820 feet (the special observatory). The observation decks offer 360-degree views of Tokyo's sprawling cityscape and come equipped with placards that point out notable buildings in the skyline. And if you visit on a really clear day, you'll be able to spot Mount Fuji in the distance. The Tokyo Tower also has its own cafe, where patrons can sip tea while admiring the views, as well as Club 333, a music venue that hosts performances daily. And if you're on the hunt for souvenirs, travelers say this is a surprisingly great place to peruse thanks to all the on-site shops.

The best time to visit the Tokyo Tower is at night, according to reviewers. That's because the tower lights up beautifully, and often in multiple colors depending on when you visit. You'll also encounter stunning vistas from atop Tokyo SkyTree, a much taller tower located about 8 miles northwest, but you'll have to combat hordes of fellow tourists. Recent visitors said of the two towers, this one is less crowded.   

must visit spots japan

Shibuya Crossing Shibuya Crossing free

U.S. News Insider Tip: After the rush of Shibuya Crossing, walk 15 minutes to Cat Street, a pedestrianized stretch with fewer crowds and chic shopping. Pop into TRUNK hotel for a coffee or a cocktail in its popular lobby, which is open to the public. – Kristin Braswell

Behold: a whirlwind of bodies moving somehow in seamlessly concerted motion at Shibuya Crossing – a must-see in Tokyo. The popular pedestrian scramble located in front of the Shibuya Station Hachiko exit is considered the busiest intersection in the world, welcoming upward of 3,000 people every two minutes across its five major crosswalks. The hypnotic waltz under Shibuya’s towering neon buildings is quintessential Tokyo: busy, yet somehow still orderly and seamless. A major transportation hub, Shibuya Station connects the city’s major neighborhoods, including Harajuku and Roppongi. 

must visit spots japan

Ginza Ginza free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Tucked on an alleyway, Kagari Ramen offers a not-to-miss truffle chicken ramen that people begin to line up for in the early afternoon. Get there early and grab a ticket for entrance.  – Kristin Braswell

New York has Fifth Avenue, London has Bond Street, Paris has the Champs-Élysées and Tokyo has Ginza. The neighborhood is a shopper's paradise, housing all types of storefronts from affordable, big-name retailers, such as H&M and Zara, to upscale design houses, such as Dior, Armani and Cartier. You can also find specialty stores selling traditional items, such as kimonos, incense and chopsticks. There's also a plethora of Hello Kitty products at the Sanrio flagship store located here, as well as all the toys your kid's heart desires at the massive Hakuhinkan Toy Park. 

must visit spots japan

Tokyo Station Tokyo Station free

An underground maze and city unto itself in Marunouchi business district, Tokyo Station is a major gateway for travelers arriving and departing the city. More than 3,000 trains come through the station each day, making it the busiest transportation hub in Japan. Some of the most popular trains that make a stop at Tokyo station include the JR Yamanote line, which circles through some of the city’s most famous commercial neighborhoods, as well as various bullet trains (called Shinkansen) that transport travelers throughout Japan – from Kyoto to as far south as Kyushu. A terminal on the Yaesu side exit is the stopping point for a number of buses that connect to the rest of the country, as well as Tokyo’s two airports, Haneda and Narita.

If you get overwhelmed in the station, you wouldn’t be the first. Fortunately, there are a number of English-speaking tourist stands that can help you navigate the best way to your destination. These include the JR EAST Travel Service center outside of the Marunouchi North Exit ticket gate, which offers support for international tourists, including directions to exchanging money; it's open daily from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. It’s also a popular location to pick up the Japan Rail Pass, a transportation option sold exclusively to tourists who enter Japan on a temporary visitor visa that provides discounted unlimited rides around the country for a set amount of time. You can learn more about how to purchase the pass and the specific routes and costs here . Other central information centers in Tokyo Station include the Central Corridor and Marunouchi Central information counters, open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. 

must visit spots japan

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must visit spots japan

Akihabara Akihabara free

Akihabara is nirvana for techies. Tokyo's premier electronics district, which is also referred to as "Akiba," has gadgets of all kinds found in booths on side streets and main street mega department stores. You'll spot the latest technology on the shelves, which will probably put your equipment to shame. And if you're in the market for hard-to-find bibs or bobs, you're likely to find that here, too. If you're unsure where to start, stop at the larger-than-life Yodobashi Camera store (often billed as the largest electronics store in the world) or stroll along the neighborhood's main street, Chuo Dori, which becomes car-free on Sundays for select hours. In addition to being an electronics hub, Akihabara also caters to serious gamers, anime and manga lovers. Here, you'll find loads of gaming arcades as well as shops and street stalls selling comics and character figurines. You'll also probably spot a few cosplayers casually walking down the street. 

While Akihabara is no doubt unique, recent travelers had mixed reviews about the district. Those who expressed interest in anime loved their visit, saying you can't leave Tokyo without experiencing the world Akihabara has to offer for fans. Those without a greater interest in the subject matter enjoyed the buzzing activity and plethora of neon signage that permeated the area, but ended up growing bored after a period of time. Some were offended by the inappropriate nature of some of the anime culture (think: maid cafes), so this area may not be suitable for all travelers. Visitors solely interested in shopping for electronics felt overwhelmed by the options and recommended researching in advance to maximize your time in the neighborhood. 

must visit spots japan

Tokyo National Museum Tokyo National Museum

If you're looking to learn a little (or a lot) about Japan's history, the Tokyo National Museum is the place to go. This museum is one of the country's most expansive, housing about 120,000 pieces of art and artifacts that cover the longest recorded history of Japan. Strolling through the halls of its numerous buildings, you'll spot relics such as samurai armor and swords (a traveler favorite), delicate pottery, kimonos, calligraphy, paintings, and much more, some of which are designated as national treasures and “important cultural properties” by the Japanese government. In addition to artifacts from Japan's history, you'll also find pieces from all across the Asian continent, including Buddhist scrolls that date all the way back to the 7th century.

Travelers were impressed with all that the Tokyo National Museum has to offer. Even some who admitted they aren't "museum people" enjoyed the variety of unique artifacts on display. Travelers appreciated that the museum featured English translations, something that some visitors noticed other Tokyo top attractions lacked (like the Ghibli Museum ). Museum goers also say that there is so much to see in the Tokyo National Museum that you probably need an entire day if you want to get through everything. If you don't have enough time to do this (or just don't want to) the best thing to do is get a map of the museum beforehand and pick what you want to do before you venture in. 

must visit spots japan

Odaiba Odaiba free

Envision a mini Atlantis rising out of the water, conveniently right next to downtown Tokyo. That's Odaiba. This neighborhood and human-made island situated on the Tokyo Bay is a hub of entertainment, eateries and eye-catching architecture, including the futuristic-looking Fuji Television building and the life-size Unicorn Gundam Statue. Some of the area's top attractions include the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation and the relaxing Odaiba Seaside Park, which comes equipped with an artificial beach and Tokyo's own Statue of Liberty (scaled down). 

Along with the Legoland Discovery Center, there’s also the DiverCity Tokyo Plaza and Decks Tokyo Beach facility, which offers lots in the way of dining and shopping in addition to entertainment options. 

must visit spots japan

Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building free

There are plenty of skyscrapers that provide a bird's-eye lookout in Tokyo, including Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree. So what makes the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Tower special? It's free! The nearly 800-foot-tall building houses two observatories (North and South observatory) that are the highest vantage points (at around 660 feet) that you can reach in the city without having to hand over some yen. 

Travelers loved their experience at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building because it was so fuss-free. Free admission, few lines, speedy elevators, helpful customer service and no time restrictions at the top was ideal for travelers who were looking to take their time with the incredible views. The observatories offer 360-degree views of the city and visitors say on a clear day, Mount Fuji is visible in the distance. If you can, travelers suggest visiting at sunset; the transition from day to night, when some say truly Tokyo comes to life, is magical.

must visit spots japan

Daikanyama Daikanyama free

If you’re looking to recharge in Tokyo, consider Daikanyama, a tree-lined neighborhood with a trendy, quiet side that’s often referred to as Tokyo’s own Brooklyn. Just south of Shibuya, the district is a peaceful retreat from the towering buildings of its neighbors. The pedestrian-only streets are filled with boutique shops, restaurants, small parks, cafes, and the city’s biggest bookstore: Daikanyama T-Site. Plan to spend several hours roaming T-site’s three buildings, which are filled with a collection of books, magazines and music. Then, have a coffee or cocktail at its on-site cafe, Anjin Library & Lounge, which is filled with plush brown leather couches and a number of tables. Log Road is another must-see in the neighborhood. Built on the train tracks of the old Tokyu train line, this outdoor shopping complex features a brewery and a bakery that are housed in wood cottage buildings surrounded by greenery and a number of places to sit and picnic. Daikanyama is also popular for brunch spots like Garden House Crafts and Ivy Place. 

Visitors call T-Site one of the best bookstores they’ve ever visited, reminiscent of a beautifully designed college campus. They call Daikanyama a mix of modern and traditional Japan and recommend visiting Saigoyama Park for a stroll and sunset watching. 

must visit spots japan

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must visit spots japan

National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan) National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan)

The National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation, commonly referred to as the Miraikan, attests to Tokyo's entrepreneurial spirit and penchant for science and technological innovation. This high-tech museum features a plethora of exciting interactive displays spread across three themed permanent exhibits. In "Explore The Frontiers," visitors can learn about space exploration by stepping into a model of the International Space Station. There's also "Discover Your Earth," where you'll find a large LED-paneled Earth sculpture, as well as the robotics-heavy "Create Your Future" exhibit. Make sure you get an eyeful of Honda's impressive ASIMO robot while here. ASIMO has opposable thumbs, can run, and even kick a soccer ball (as it did with President Obama in his 2014 visit to the museum). Kids will particularly enjoy the displays as they can touch, climb on and play with many of them. The museum also features science workshops for kids, talks from researchers and the Dome Theater GAIA. 

Despite its draw, many travelers offered mixed reviews of the museum. Some reported feeling like kids, amazed at the vast amount of things to learn and do, while other adults said the museum is best suited for children. Some visitors also found the exhibits to be lacking, saying the information provided was very basic. Those who did bring their kids in tow said they had a ball.

must visit spots japan

Imperial Palace Imperial Palace free

You'd think the Imperial Palace would be mobbed with tourists, but it's not. You can credit the lack of crowds to an application policy, which limits the number of visitors. That's because the Imperial Palace is home to the Emperor of Japan and his immediate family. And before that, it was the residence for some of Japan's most important figures, including Emperor Meiji (credited for modernizing Japan) and rulers during the Edo Period (the time period before Japan was modernized by Meiji). Because of its significant importance in Japanese society, admittance to the site is hard to get (you have to put in your application several weeks in advance) and access inside the actual palace is even more restricted.

As such, most travelers suggest skipping the application entirely (those who went on the tour were disappointed with how little of the palace is open to visitors) and admiring the compound from afar. Visitors also say the East Gardens, which are part of the Imperial Palace complex, are much more of a sight to see. This flourishing green space has plenty of shady spots and open fields, perfect for relaxing. And during cherry blossom season, these gardens are a choice spot for locals looking to enjoy the seasonal foliage. 

must visit spots japan

Shimokitazawa Shimokitazawa free

A hub for vintage shops, cafes and restaurants, Shimokitazawa continues to gain popularity among Tokyo’s young crowds and students who are drawn to its bohemian energy. Commonly known as "Shimokita," the largely residential district in west Tokyo’s Setagaya neighborhood was once a haven for hippies who migrated to the neighborhood in the 1970s. Today, a network of streets are home to busy cafes, indie cinemas, music venues and tons of thrift shopping. A philosophy called “Shimokita style” embraces reusing clothing and antiques, but also a slower pace to enjoy life. 

Small, independently owned stores are the neighborhood’s pride, with Ocean Blvd. store – just a few steps from Shimokitazawa Station, being a great starting point for thrift shopping. Other popular thrift stores include Chicago, Flamingo and New York Joe Exchange. 

must visit spots japan

Ghibli Museum Ghibli Museum

Both avid and amateur anime fans love the Ghibli Museum. The museum showcases the work of Hayao Miyazaki's Studio Ghibli – the famous Japanese animation company that produced films like "Spirited Away" and "Ponyo." Don't expect formal, indoor exhibits. The facility's quirky interior design mimics the animation studio. There's also a play area for kids (which comes equipped with a life-size, fuzzy Cat Bus), a reading room full of books recommended by the museum and a rooftop garden that features character sculptures, including the silent robots from "Castle In The Sky." You can even watch a short film that plays exclusively at the museum and rotates each month. 

Considering how difficult it is to secure tickets and the museum's removed location, travelers say visiting this attraction is only worth the extra effort if you're a Miyazaki fan. Devotees loved having the opportunity to get lost in the director's magical world, which many say the museum executed just about perfectly. The only complaint? The expensive gift shop. Even avid fans were disappointed with some of the shop's high prices. English-speaking travelers also warned that English signs and placards are few and far between here. 

must visit spots japan

Shinjuku Golden Gai Shinjuku Golden Gai

Explore some 200 bars in this narrow maze of alleyways. A remnant of post-war 1950s Tokyo, this district was once a black market that evolved into a number of small, makeshift bars. Today, stretched across six dimly lit streets (called yokocho) in Tokyo’s Shinjuku neighborhood, Golden Gai (which means "golden block") is jampacked – literally – with bars that are ideal for any night owl. Most bars open around 8 p.m., though many don’t get lively until nearly midnight. Be aware that most bars charge an entrance fee for a seat, which is typically around 1,000 yen (about $7). As you roam Golden Gai, your biggest question will be which bar to choose. Start with any themes that may catch your eye, like Albatross, a two-floor Gothic-inspired den that has enough room for small groups, or Happy, a tiny bar that features vintage rock and soul albums. There are a few food options in Golden Gai as well, like a noodle shop called Ramen Nagi, located on the second floor of a wooden house. 

You should be prepared to rub shoulders with strangers, as many of Golden Gai’s bars are only a few feet wide and seat a handful of people. Because bars have limited seating, some may display signs that say “regulars only” or “no tourists,” and it's important to respect that. Don’t worry though, there are plenty of tourist-friendly and English-speaking options to choose from. 

must visit spots japan

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must visit spots japan

Tsukiji Outer Market Tsukiji Outer Market free

You don’t have to be a sushi connoisseur to enjoy the Tsukiji Outer Market, which offers an unforgettable experience. Even before Tokyo’s international wholesale fish market – the largest in the world – moved to the Toyosu district in 2018, the Tsukiji Outer Market was a popular place to buy a variety of food and kitchenware. Today, hundreds of different types of seafood are sold here, ranging from basics (like tuna) to the exotic. If all the excitement and bartering starts to make you a little hungry, don't hesitate to grab a bite here. There are numerous sushi stalls and tiny restaurants in the market (Sushi Sei Honten and Sushizanmai are popular spots) that serve fish at their freshest. But if you aren't much of a seafood fan, no matter. There's still something for you here. The market features a few ready-made meal stalls that aren't all seafood-based, including Mosuke Dango, where you'll find sweet dumplings. What’s more, retail stalls selling kitchenware items like knives and tableware also set up shop.

Recent visitors offered mixed reviews for the Tsukiji Outer Market, noting that prices were higher than the original market that moved to Toyosu. If you're not a fan of seafood, or you don't enjoy overstimulating and/or crowded places, visitors say this is not the attraction for you. Travelers say this market is huge and very busy, especially on Saturdays. Those who do enjoy seafood will no doubt be in awe of the vast array of fresh and delectable seafood options available, so much so that reviewers strongly suggest coming hungry as you'll probably end up eating more than you planned. Travelers were also delighted in the market's lack of a pungent, fishy smell. 

must visit spots japan

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

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

Shinjuku street, Tokyo, Japan

Shinjuku street, Tokyo, Japan. Photo by rayand

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

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

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

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

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

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

Golden Temple Kinkakuji, Kyoto, Japan

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

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

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

Himeji Castle, Osaka, Japan

Himeji Castle, Osaka, Japan. Photo by Wally Gobetz

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

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

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

Mount Fuji, Japan

Mount Fuji, Japan. Photo by Manish Prabhune

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

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

Sakura trees over a bridge, Nara, Japan

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

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

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

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

Art Museum perch at the sea and beach, Naoshima, Japan

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

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

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

Car at fields and sea, Hokkaido, Japan

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

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

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

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

Miyajima floating torii, Hiroshima, Japan

Miyajima floating torii, Hiroshima, Japan. Photo by lluis

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

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

Kamakura Daibutsu, the Great Buddha, Japan

Daibutsu, the Great Buddha at Kamakura

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

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

Ancient cedar trees, Yakushima, Japan

Ancient cedar trees, Yakushima, Japan. Photo by Kabacchi

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

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

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

must visit spots japan

Author: Rachel

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

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17 Unmissable Things to do in Tokyo, Japan

17 Unmissable Things to do in Tokyo, Japan

Discover the sprawling metropolis of Tokyo, the capital city of Japan — home to weird and wonderful sights, neon flashing lights, expansive gardens, tavern-filled alleys, and sensory food markets. This exciting city is hard to beat, offering a myriad of unforgettable adventures: peer through glass floors at the top of the city’s tallest skyscraper, wade through water in abstract art museums, devour rainbow-spun candy as you peruse cosplay shops, or enjoy moments of peace at sacred shrines. Experience it all with the top things to do in Tokyo!

Best Things to do in Tokyo

Tokyo is an enormous city, and there’s so much to see that you’ll definitely want to return again. Although busy, it doesn’t have the hectic feel of other Asian capital cities like Bangkok or Beijing.

shibuya crossing tokyo japan

This is mainly because of the unique Japanese culture, which centers around respect and good manners. In fact, it’s one of the safest cities in the world, meaning you can explore at any hour — although after dark is when the city really comes to life, with thousands of neon flashing lights leading the way to music-pumping restaurants and high-rise bars. 

Tip: Tokyo offers a good mix of city and nature activities, particularly as it has so many amazing green spaces. The city is also a great jumping-off point for day trips into nature, where you can really see the ‘authentic Japan’.

restaurant tokyo japan

1. Tokyo Skytree

Discover the tallest tower in the world! Yes, the Tokyo Skytree is not only the tallest structure in Japan but also the tallest tower globally, standing at a mammoth height of 634 meters. You can ascend the building to see breathtaking panoramic views of the city. On a clear day, you can even see Mount Fuji in the distance!

things to do in Tokyo skytree

Begin your trip to the pinnacle via the four different elevators (rocketing to the top at a speed of 50 seconds per section!). The Tembo deck is the first viewpoint you’ll reach at 350 meters with a knee-shaking glass floor, giving you fantastic views of Tokyo from a different perspective. ( Get your tickets here )

tokyo skytree view

At 450 meters, you’ll reach the Tembo Gallery, the Skytree’s highest viewpoint. Here, you’ll find 360-degree panoramic views — an unmissable thing to do in Tokyo!

We recommend visiting just before sunset so you can see the city transition from day to night. After dark is special when bright neon lights illuminate the sidewalks and buildings.

Hotels in Tokyo 😴

HOTEL 1899 TOKYO

Opening Times and Tickets for Tokyo Skytree

It’s best to book your tickets in advance so that you can get them at a slightly cheaper price.

  • Advance tickets for both decks (Tembo Deck and Tembo Gallery) cost 2,700 yen (19 USD)
  • Tembo Deck (the lower viewpoint) costs 1,800 yen (12 USD).
  • Don’t worry if you forget to book tickets in advance; you can buy tickets at a slightly higher price on the same day.
  • Please also keep an eye on the weather, as high winds can lead to closure.
  • Decks are open from 10 AM to 9 PM (last entry 8.20 PM)

Book your tickets for Tokyo Skytree in advance

Budget tip : On a budget? Head for the free observation deck in the metropolitan building at Shinjuku. 

must visit spots japan

2. Shinjuku Gyoen

Welcome to Shinjuku Gyoen – a tranquil oasis at the heart of bustling Tokyo, once only reserved for royalty. Escape the bright lights and crowds and enter a natural garden of 144 acres full of trees, traditional Japanese gardens, flowers, and unique plants.

things to do in Tokyo shinjuku gyoen

Situated right in the middle of the city, Shinjuku Gyoen is often compared to New York’s Central Park, providing an escape for Tokyo residents throughout different seasons of the year. See 900+ trees burst into color during the cherry blossom season and majestic oranges, yellows, and reds in the fall. 

Here are all your hotel options in Tokyo.

fall colored trees japan

Don’t miss the incredible greenhouse, which feels like an indoor jungle, like a small Cloud Forest in Singapore . It’s home to many tropical plants, some of which are rare and close to extinction. 

green house Shinjuku Gyoen tokyo

There are plenty of cafes and tea rooms throughout the park for refreshments. However, Starbucks deserves a special mention as it’s entirely made of windows and has a fantastic view of the park. 

Opening Times and Entry Fee: 500 yen (4 USD). Opening times are 9 AM – 5.30 PM (earlier in the winter season) and closed on Mondays. You can buy tickets on the day at the entrance or buy in advance here .

Shinjuku Gyoen starbucks

3. Teamlab Planets

One of the best things to do in Tokyo is to experience the magic of Teamlab Planets : a sensory museum experience with large-scale art spaces. Move through a series of rooms, each home to a unique experience, from giant glowing orbs and lights to water spaces filled with flowers and mirrors. ( reserve your tickets in advance here )

best things to do tokyo japan teamlab planets

As you move through the abstract art experience, you’ll be accompanied by classical music. This, combined with the 3D visuals, makes for an awe-inspiring yet tranquil experience. 

What to Wear to Teamlab Planets

Each room in Teamlab Planets offers a different sensory experience. The most important things to note are:

  • You walk through the rooms barefoot. In two rooms, you’ll walk through water, one up to your ankles and the other up to your knees. For this reason, we recommend wearing loose trousers that you can roll up above your knees.
  • You can also rent shorts at the start if you prefer. 

17 Unmissable Things to do in Tokyo, Japan

  • We don’t recommend wearing a skirt to Teamlab Planets due to the many floor mirrors (for obvious reasons!). 
  • The rooms can get warm, so leave your sweater in the lockers at the beginning.
  • You can take your phone or camera with you. However, because of the water, do so at your own risk.

teamlab tokyo

Tickets for Teamlab Planets, Tokyo

This is one of the most popular experiences in Tokyo, and tickets get booked quickly, so we recommend booking ahead to avoid disappointment. Additionally, tickets are only released a couple of months in advance. Best is to choose one of the earliest time slots.

The ticket price is 3,800 yen (27 USD), and you can reserve your tickets in advance online .

visit teamlab tokyo

4. Sensō-ji

Sensō-ji is one of the most sacred sites in the world and the most visited temple in Japan! The traditional red temple, home to a stunning 5-story pagoda, is particularly important to the Japanese and Tokyo residents. It is also the location of many important festivals throughout the year. 

best things to do in tokyo japan Sensō-ji

Legend has it that two brothers found a Kannon statue in the river, and when they let it go, it kept returning to them. The area’s chief at the time recognized this phenomenon and wanted to house the statue in his home. He even remodelled it to become a place of worship — which is now Sensō-ji. 

senso-ji temple tokyo

Visiting Sensō-ji

As you enter the main gates, you’re greeted by gigantic red pillars and Japanese lanterns, making for a great photo. There are also many food and souvenir stalls if you want to take something away to commemorate your visit.

google maps phone

Once inside, you’ll see the main temple, which you can enter. However, if you’re not religious, the interior itself is not as attractive as the external grounds, although it is special to see people praying.

Please note that the pagoda interior is fenced off, and you cannot take photos.

gate senso-ji

Entry and Opening Times: Admission is free. The main hall is open from 6.30 AM to 5 PM every day from October to March. In the summer, opening hours are extended to 5.30 PM. 

Tip: The temple is lit up at night from sunset until 11 PM, and the temple grounds are always open, making it a lovely spot to hang out in the evening. Alternatively, the Tokyo Skytree overlooks the site, offering a great view of the illuminated temple.

tokyo Sensō-ji stalls

5. Kōkyo Castle / Imperial Palace

The Imperial Palace of Tokyo is an icon of the city — a fortified castle that sits high up on a stone embankment surrounded by a moat. The imperial family live here, giving it extraordinary importance in Japan. 

things to do in Tokyo kokyo castle

Although the palace itself is not open to the public in general, it’s surrounded by a vast park, so there’s plenty to explore. There is the option to apply to join a free guided tour of the palace grounds to learn more about its interesting history (10 AM and 1.30 PM daily). Otherwise, simply wander among the beautiful Japanese gardens, cross the pretty stone bridges, or relax in the grassy park. 

Note: The palace is not open to the public as it’s still the official residence of the imperial family. However, on important days of the year, the public can enter the external sections to wave at important family members who greet visitors from the balcony.

tokyo castle

Chidorigafuchi Park

On the other side of the moat, on the west side, you will find another small park called Chidorigafuchi Park. This relatively undiscovered spot is home to some of the best cherry blossom viewpoints in the city.

Rent a rowboat (open from March to November) and explore the waters surrounding the palace. This is particularly impressive in Spring when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom.

things to do in Tokyo imperial palace

6. Shibuya Crossing

Think of Tokyo, and the incredible setting of Shibuya Crossing immediately jumps to mind. This is the busiest crossing in Japan, if not in the world, where surrounding skyscrapers, huge glowing advertisements, and flashing traffic lights bathe pedestrians in a neon glow as they cross the intersection.

best things to do tokyo japan shibuya crossing

Prepare for all your senses to be sparked as you move among the many people, with music coming from all directions (shopping malls, advertisements, and music).

Although this area is one of the busiest in the city, in true Japanese fashion, it’s still exceptionally organized and respectful, with traffic lights and the politeness of Japanese people (you won’t experience any beeping here!). 

Tip: Want to see Shibuya crossing from above? Head for Shibuya Sky (reserve far in advance), an observation deck that costs 2,200 yen (15 USD) to enter. Another option is MAGNET by SHIBUYA109 , a good viewpoint on the top of a shopping mall. Tickets cost 1,500 yen (10 USD), including a drink.

tokyo japan travel guide

7. Shinjuku

Exploring the liveliest neighborhood in the city is one of the top things to do in Tokyo! Shinjuku offers the real Tokyo experience: streets full of neon flashing lights, shiny 3D advertising, such as the iconic 3D cat, and small alleyways filled with tiny bars. 

Also read: Best Things To Do in Osaka, Japan .

things to do in Tokyo shinjuku 3D cat

Head for Kabukicho, the famous entertainment district that never sleeps, where you’ll find the brightest lights in the city and Japan’s renowned karaoke bars. For this reason, we recommend visiting Shinjuku at night, when you’ll be able to make the most of the themed restaurants (like Alice in Wonderland), nightclubs, and quaint drinking holes. 

Tip: If you’re looking for something more upmarket, Shinjuku also has plenty of luxury bars, including the Park Hyatt Hotel . This hotel is famous for its incredible city view, especially at sunset. It was also the setting for some of the scenes in the Hollywood movie ‘Lost in Translation’ with Bill Murray and Scarlett Johanson. 

shinjuku tokyo japan

The Godzilla Head

Fans of Godzilla, or just those who want to see something truly out of the ordinary, should look out for the Godzilla head. This life-size scale model of the fictional character looks like he’s attacking a colossal building — just like in the movies!  Here is the exact location .

Tip: Want an incredible view of Shinjuku for free? Take the elevator to the top of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, where the viewing deck is free to visitors. It’s a budget alternative to the Sky Tree, and you can still see Mount Fuji on a clear day!

things to do in Tokyo shinjuku godzilla head

The unique area of Golden Gai in Shinjuku is an absolute must-see in Tokyo! This authentic area comprises narrow streets and many cozy taverns, some hidden away, making exploring fascinating. It’s entertaining to visit at night when it comes to life with locals and tourists. Grab the location from our Japan map or see the location . 

Tip: Golden Gai is the best place to make friends since all the bars are so tiny. Most only fit 10-15 people, so you’ll have to sit very close to each other. Order a soju and simply drink in the typically Japanese atmosphere.

must visit spots japan

Omoide Yokocho

Explore another vibrant and traditional area in Shinjuku: Omoide Yokocho! The small timeworn buildings are home to various BBQ joints — billowing out smoke — that starkly contrast with the towering nearby skyscrapers.

Did you know? Omoide Yokocho translates as ‘memory lane’ because it gives everyone who visits a nostalgic feeling.

things to do in Tokyo shinjuku omoide yokocho

8. Shimokitazawa

What better way to spend an afternoon than vintage shopping in the trendiest district of Tokyo: Shimokitazawa! This spiderweb of streets is made up of thrift stores, record shops, street art, and plenty of aesthetic cafes — frequented by all the most stylish people of the city, each hunting through the shops to find their vintage treasures. 

things to do in Tokyo shimokitazawa thrift store

In true Japanese style, vintage shopping in Tokyo is exceptionally well organized, with various styles and sizes. However, as thrift shopping has become a ‘culture’ of its own in Japan, its popularity is reflected in the prices. Because of this, it’s not easy to source ‘cheap finds,’ but all the pieces are so beautiful it’s worth the price tag! 

Some of our favorite shops:

  • Little Trip to Heaven
  • New York Joe

Tokyo shimokitazawa streets

9. Trip to Fuji

No trip to Tokyo would be complete without a visit to Mount Fuji , and the good news is that it’s easily accessible on a day trip! The incredible area around Mount Fuji is home to five beautiful lakes, which you can visit for stunning views of the active volcano.

See our travel guide to Best Things to do at Mount Fuji .

trip from tokyo to mt fuji japan

The natural beauty here is exceptional, and in each season, you’ll find something different to look at, whether it’s the reds of the fall forests, the cherry blossom hues in Spring, or the snow-capped peak of the volcano in winter. Mount Fuji is truly our favorite part of Japan! 

See tickets and availability for a tour to Fuji from Tokyo

mt fuji hotel day trip from tokyo

Tip: Mount Fuji is doable on a day trip from Tokyo (a 2.5-hour drive). However, if you have more time, we recommend doing a multi-day trip to enjoy all the fantastic things to do in the Fuji region. There are stunning waterfalls to explore and multiple beautiful shrines that bask in the shadow of the volcano.

We recommend to rent a car in Japan through Rentalcars.com with many rental locations and flexible cancellation. Book your rental car here .

mt fuji japan waterfall

10. See the Snow Monkeys

Seeing snow monkeys in their natural habitat is a bucket list experience and, without a doubt, one of the best things to do on your trip to Tokyo! Just a 3-hour drive away is the city of Nagano, which is a jumping-off point to see these remarkable animals.

More about: Snow Monkeys Park and its Hot Springs

day trip from tokyo to snow monkeys japan

Frolicking in the woodland, discover the cheeky red-faced creatures who come into their element in the winter when the snowy conditions motivate them to kick back and relax in the nearby hot springs.

Tickets for the natural park are 800 yen (6 USD) which you can purchase at the entrance. See opening times and ticket prices here .

must visit spots japan

There are other onsens (springs) in Yudanaka town that are accessible to humans. You’ll find plenty of them on your trip to this area, so do as the locals do and wear the traditional Yukata robe and Geta sandals as you make your way to the bathhouses. 

Please note that you are prohibited from entering Onsens if you have tattoos, this is due to the long-running stigma of tattoos in Japan.

japanese onsen

Tip: Visiting in winter? The area where the snow monkeys live (Jigokudani Valley) is in the mountains, where you’ll find fantastic snow conditions and some of Japan’s best ski resorts.

Join this day tour to see the snow monkeys, which leaves from Tokyo and includes entrance and return transportation.

japanese slippers

11. Trip to Kamakura

A world away from the bright neon lights of Tokyo, but just 1.5 hours by car, is the charming fishing village of Kamakura. Quite unexpectedly, this Japanese seaside town is a favorite for surfers and city slickers who come here for their beach holidays. 

things to do in Tokyo japan kamakura buddha

Enjoy some downtime here — explore the hiking trails, take in the views of the sea (with Mount Fuji visible inland), and swim during the summer months. The town is also home to some fantastic ancient architecture and beautiful temples and shrines, making it exceptionally peaceful. 

kamakura japan day trip from tokyo

Tip: Started your trip from Tokyo early? Get your breakfast + coffee at the Delifrance bakery at the train station in Kamakura. From here, you can take the bus or the train to other spots in the city.

Get a Japan Rail Pass to use throughout your trip!

old tram kamakura japan

12. See a Sumo Game

Seeing Japan’s national sport take place in real-time is one of the top things to do in Tokyo! The country is famous worldwide for the unusual and ancient sport of Sumo wrestling (Basho), which has been practiced in Japan for thousands of years. During the game, each athlete attempts to push the other out of the circular ring while wearing the traditional loincloth called a mawashi. 

Buy your tickets for a Sumo wrestling tournament here

things to do in Tokyo sumo game

Buy tickets for one of the arenas in Tokyo and watch this epic game unfold! We recommend joining a tour that includes tickets, reserved seating, and a guide who can explain more about the game’s history and how it works.

For something a little different, join a tour to see the morning practice. Watch the wrestlers’ rigorous training routine and snap a photo or two with your favorites!

Join this popular tour to see the Sumo morning practice

sumo game tokyo japan

13. Go Kart through Tokyo

Experience one of the most popular things to do in Tokyo: an exhilarating Go Kart ride through the city ! Ditch the typical tour bus and get behind the wheel of this adrenaline-pumping car, making your way down the fast-paced roads of Tokyo. A guide will lead you and tell you all about the most iconic sights as you go.

things to do in Tokyo go kart

To make this experience even more memorable, you can pick from various fun costumes to brighten the day — and create incredible photos for your trip. 

See availability for a Go Kart tour through Tokyo!

go kart tour tokyo japan

14. Koishikawa Korakuen

Located in the district of Koishikawa, discover the botanical gardens of Koishikawa Korakuen, which is also thought to be the oldest Japanese garden in Tokyo! Traditional Japanese gardens throughout the country are designed with ponds, stones, and bridges to mimic the natural beauty of the landscapes, and Koishikawa Korakuen is no different. 

Opening Times and Entrance Fee: 9 AM – 5 PM. Entrance 300 yen (2 USD)

must visit spots japan

The maple and cherry trees in this botanical garden burst into different colors according to the season. We visited in the fall when we had a vibrant mixture of reds, oranges, and yellows. The trees also attract some incredible bird species, making the botanical gardens popular for bird watchers. You might even have the chance to spot the graceful Kingfisher.

koishikawa korakuen tokyo japan botanical garden

15. Takeshita Street in Harajuku

At the heart of the Harajuku district, you’ll find the most colorful and busy street in Tokyo! Takeshita Street is weird and wonderful, with various stores selling bright, eccentric clothing — everything from anime costumes to platform heels and velvet bows. It’s overwhelming but brilliant all at the same time, with loud music, strange candy vendors, crepes, and fluorescently colored shopfronts. 

takeshita street harajuku tokyo japan

Although Takeshita Street is the most famous in the area, we recommend crossing the street and wandering around the rest of Harajuku. It’s much more chilled, home to contemporary art galleries, vintage stores, collectible sneakers, and luxury brands — a complete mix!

cute crepe patisserie

16. Meiji Shrine

After the hustle and bustle of Harajuku, visit the neighboring peaceful oasis of Meiji. This stunning Shinto shrine is set in the middle of Tokyo in a tranquil forest of over 100,000 trees. 

The park’s entrance is close to Harajuku station. First, pass through the Torii Gate (traditional gates that mark where the ordinary world ends and the sacred world starts) and then enjoy a relaxing 15-minute stroll through the parkland to reach the Meiji Shrine.

things to do tokyo meiji shrine

Once there, you’ll see people cleaning, performing religious tasks, and praying to the gods. You can also write out your wishes for the gods on the wooden tablets (Ema) placed near the shrine — a beautiful and spiritual moment during your time in Tokyo. 

Note: Because the shrine is sacred, photos are prohibited at the main Meiji Jingu.

tokyo japan meiji shrine

If you want some refreshments, we recommend visiting a small garden inside the park, where you’ll find an old tea house that you can enter for the price of 500 yen (3.50 USD)

Opening Times and Entrance Fee : The shrine is open from sunrise to sunset with no entrance fee. If you wish to visit the museum, tickets cost 1000 yen (7 USD).

One of the best things to do in Tokyo, the Hie shrine is definitely worth a stop on your city trip. If you’ve already visited Kyoto , you’ll notice it looks similar to the famous red shrine of Fushimi Inari Taisha. 

Also read: Things to do in Kyoto, Japan

must visit spots japan

This sacred spot sits on a hilltop in the city, with a gigantic cherry tree at the entrance, which makes the shrine look extra special in spring. Although the shrine is lovely, the most beautiful element of the whole site is at the back entrance. Here, you’ll find 90 exquisite red torii gates, each painted with Japanese characters, that form a long tunnel.

Opening times: 6 AM to 5 PM. Free entrance.

17. Tsukiji Outer Market

Immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of Tsukiji Outer Market – Tokyo’s famous fish market! Sprawling over a few blocks, the fish market is enormous, filled with hundreds of stalls, all selling different kinds of seafood, complete with bright signs and price markers. It’s a great spot to see what local life is like as you watch restaurants and locals buying their fish for dinner.

Tip: The busiest streets are Tsukiji Nishi-dōri and Tsukiji Naka-dōri, so head there for the liveliest experience.

must visit spots japan

We recommend trying some of Japan’s delicacies: fresh, thinly sliced sashimi, oysters, sushi rolls, or BBQ-ed fish. The best way to do so is to join a food tour, as the tour guide will recommend the best stalls to visit and also give you some fun facts about the market.

See availability for a tour of Tsukiji Outer Market

tokyo fish market

Top Tips for Visiting Tsukiji Outer Market 

  • Opening times 9 AM – 2 PM (closed on Sundays and Wednesdays)
  • Arrive before 10 AM (afterwards, it gets crowded)
  • Prepare yourself for the strong fish smell – it’s not for the faint of heart! 
  • Wear closed-toes shoes as the floor is wet. Avoid wearing sandals or high heels.
  • Some stalls don’t accept credit cards, so take cash just in case.

fish market tokyo japan

Best Restaurants & Cafes in Tokyo

Tokyo has to be one of the best places to eat in the world! You can look forward to dining on all the Japanese favorites like Sushi, Ramen, and Soba noodles, whether you purchase from market vendors or dine at high-end fusion restaurants.

matcha cafe japan in bamboo forest

In reality, every kind of food you can imagine is sourceable in Tokyo; you’ll also find plenty of Italian and French restaurants and plentiful bakeries serving freshly baked pastries – most delicious when eaten warm first thing in the morning. Some of our favorites are:

  • Bricolage Bread & Co
  • Sushi Ishii
  • Citron Aoyama
  • Fuglen Asakusa
  • Palermo Akasaka
  • Falafel Brothers
  • & sandwich.
  • Afuri Ramen

best sushi restaurant tokyo japan

Top Tip: It’s no secret that Tokyo is expensive, so if you’d like to have a quick snack or an affordable takeaway lunch, we recommend going to the supermarkets 7-Eleven, Family Mart, or Lawson. You can find delicious Onigiri (a rice ball with fish inside and packed in crunchy seaweed) or even mix a cup of frozen fruits into a smoothie.

Make sure to bring your reusable water bottle with you; you can drink water from the taps in most places in Japan! This is a good way to save money and travel plastic-free .

7-eleven onigiri tokyo japan

Where to Stay in Tokyo

Tokyo is a massive city with neighborhoods to suit every kind of traveler. Even if you choose to stay further out, the fantastic metro system makes it easy to travel between districts. 

We stayed in the neighborhood of Akasaka , which is close to many of the top things to do in Tokyo and has great restaurants and cafes. It also has excellent train connections, yet it is still away from the main crowds.

best hotels tokyo japan

Hotels near Shinjuku station are also a good option (particularly good for nightlife and restaurants). The same is true for the area surrounding Tokyo Station , which provides the most connections to the rest of the city.

  • Hotels near Shinjuku Station
  • Hotels at Tokyo Station
  • Hotels at Akasaka

must visit spots japan

How Many Days in Tokyo?

There are so many incredible things to do in Tokyo that we recommend spending at least two days exploring. Three to four days would be perfect (this excludes day trips), allowing you to visit all the main sites and leave plenty of time for dining, nightlife, and museums. 

Tokyo is an excellent jumping-off point for day trips in Japan, primarily because of the superfast bullet trains that can take you out of the city in a matter of minutes. 

streets tokyo

How to Visit Tokyo

Tokyo has two international airports that serve the city, Haneda and Narita. Narita is further away (60 KM east of the city), so we recommend flying into Haneda for ease.

From here, it’s just a 30-minute train into the city center, or you can arrange a private transfer if you have a lot of luggage.

Book your airport transfer in advance

tokyo train station

There is a lack of elevators and escalators in Tokyo’s metro stations, making it more challenging to maneuver your suitcase when traveling into the city. Because of this, luggage transfer services are very common. For example, Yamato Transport can arrange to bring your luggage from the airport to your hotel and vice versa.

Tip: It’s best to get an eSim in advance so you’re directly connected when you land in Japan. Buy your sim online here .

metro tokyo japan

Getting Around

Getting around Tokyo is super easy; the organized Japanese public transport system makes traveling a dream! Metros and trains reach every corner of the city, and best of all, they’re super affordable. 

Note: Because the travel network in Tokyo is so organized, you’ll never experience delays; trains and metros depart precisely at the minute specified.

Walking around the city is highly recommended. It’s the best way to take in the vibe of Tokyo, and there’s something out of the ordinary to see on every street corner. When you get tired, you can download a taxi app (Uber and GoTaxi are the best, with GoTaxi being the cheaper option).

trendy japanese family

Is the JR Pass worth it? ( Calculate it here ) The Japan Rail Pass gives you unlimited access to all public transport throughout Japan, so it’s a great option if you plan on taking the Shinkansen (bullet train) several times. It’s also multi-use for other trains, ferries, and buses throughout the country. 

Buy your Japan Rail Pass in advance

jr pass bullet train japan

How Much Does Tokyo Cost?

Like most of Japan, Tokyo upholds its reputation as one of the most expensive cities in the world. However, we were pleasantly surprised that entrance tickets, food and public transport cost much less than anticipated. The higher costs were for accommodation, which is more expensive than anywhere else in the country. Because of this, we recommend booking well in advance to try and score the cheapest deal. 

Tip: Capsule hotels are very popular in Tokyo, offering a budget alternative to the traditional hotel experience. 

Costs of Traveling in Tokyo

Travel on a budget in Tokyo, from $480 − $950 USD weekly per person, mid-range $2100 − $4230 USD, and high-end from $3880 − $6030 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

  • Hotels: $150 − $500 USD Check available hotels
  • Hostels: $20 − $85 USD Check available hostels
  • Transport: $5 − $50 USD Book public transport
  • Car Rental: $35 − $150 USD Book a rental car
  • Food: $30 − $150 USD
  • Activities: $10 − $50 USD See tickets & tours
  • Sim: $1 − $5 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
  • Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

vintage store tokyo japan

Best Time to Visit Tokyo

With so many things to do in Tokyo, you can visit at any time of the year and be spoilt for choice. However, the most beautiful season is Spring when the cherry blossoms are out, covering the city in pink flowers. Bear in mind that this is also the most popular time to visit, raising prices and demand for accommodation. 

Note: Although many sights in Tokyo can get busy, it’s rarely hectic as a result of the fantastic organization and good manners of the Japanese people.

Fall is an excellent alternative. It’s still busy, but it’s a little less expensive than Spring. You’ll still get to see the maple trees burst into the typical fall colors, which creates a fiery backdrop to Tokyo’s towering skyscrapers and neon lights.

Tip: In both seasons, fall and spring, you’ll need to book ahead for tours, tickets, and accommodations to avoid disappointment.

Shinjuku Gyoen park tokyo japan

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Snow Monkey Park: Japan’s Hot Spring Oasis

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A wall surrounds a rectangle of raked gravel, with some rocks standing in various spots.

Gardens of Stone, Moss, Sand: 4 Moments of Zen in Kyoto

The city’s dry gardens seem timeless, but as these relatively new versions show, their design is still evolving. They offer spots for quiet contemplation in an increasingly overtouristed city.

Kyoto’s dry gardens forgo plants and flowers and instead use elements like gravel, rocks and moss to create contemplative environments. Credit... Andrew Faulk for The New York Times

Supported by

Paula Deitz

By Paula Deitz

  • March 26, 2024

Once, when the Buddha was asked to preach about a flower he was presented, he instead “gazed at it in silence,” according to the British garden designer Sophie Walker in her book “The Japanese Garden.” In this spiritual moment Zen Buddhism was born, inspiring the serene and eternal dry or rock gardens called karesansui.

Unlike a garden designed for strolling, which directs visitors along a defined path to take in scenic views and teahouses, a dry garden is viewed while seated on a veranda above, offering the heightened experience of traveling through it in the imagination, revealing its essence in meditation.

With rocks artfully placed along expanses of fine gravel raked by monks into ripples representing water, they are sources for contemplation, whether they refer to a specific landscape or are serenely abstract. Ryoan-ji, which dates to about 1500, is the supreme example of the latter among Kyoto temples, with its 15 low rocks in five clusters set in pools of moss within an enclosed rectangle of raked gravel. The puzzle is that only 14 are visible at any one time, no matter where you sit to view it.

People sit in a row underneath an overhanging roof. In front of them a corner of a rectangular space filled with gravel and isolated rocks can be seen.

Change in Kyoto, Japan’s major city of temple gardens, is a quiet evolution. But a tour of several dry gardens designed within the last century — and even within the last few years — demonstrates that the Zen tradition is timeless when it comes to landscape design, and that moments of contemplation are still possible, even as the crowds grow bigger.

Upon arrival at the Zen monastery complex Daitoku-ji, in northern Kyoto, I headed to Zuiho-in, one of its 22 subtemples. The temple was founded in 1319, and then in 1546, the powerful feudal lord Sorin Otomo dedicated it to his family. This was during the period of Spanish and Portuguese missionaries in Japan. Like others, Otomo converted to Christianity but remained inspired by Zen Buddhism.

I entered along angled walkways until I arrived at Zuiho-in’s temple veranda to view the main dry garden. Though the style may at first appear traditional, this garden was designed in the 1960s by Mirei Shigemori, a landscape architect whose training was in the Japanese cultural arts: conducting the tea ceremony, flower arranging, and landscape ink and wash painting. As the Western Modernist movement entered Japan, he adopted it in combination with traditional arts and became determined to revolutionize a garden aesthetic that had remained fixed for hundreds of years. He succeeded in designing more than 200 gardens in Japan and even worked with the Japanese American sculptor Isamu Noguchi on a UNESCO garden, collecting stones in Japan that Noguchi set in the garden at the organization’s Paris headquarters.

In the Zuiho-in garden, the gravel swirls are raked into high peaks as if far out at sea, with a chain of jagged pointed rocks like islands leading to a mossy peninsula crested by a massive stone representing Mount Horai, where, according to Taoist mythology, the heroes called the Eight Immortals, who fought for justice, reside. Referring to Otomo’s Christianity, rocks in a second garden define a cross, and three rows of squarish stones embedded in sand elsewhere in the garden could be seen as Shigemori’s Modernist signature.

Across town, in the Higashiyama district, the Philosopher’s Walk is a pedestrian path along the picturesque Lake Biwa Canal. First opened in 1890, it is believed to be named for a Kyoto University philosophy professor who strolled there while meditating. As you walk along it, depending on the season, the swift current below carries brilliant autumnal leaves or delicate cherry blossoms shed from trees lining the banks.

Honen-in, one of several Buddhist temples along the Philosopher’s Walk, is particularly popular in autumn, with its grand staircase and entry gate framed by vast canopies of fiery red Japanese maple trees. Two large, rectangular white-sand mounds along the central path are periodically raked by monks into new designs; last fall, a maple leaf was outlined on one and a ginkgo leaf on the other against backgrounds of ridges.

The high priest, Kajita Shinsho, who lives there with his family, had a private courtyard with a veranda that needed a garden, and last March he engaged Marc Peter Keane, an American landscape architect now living in Kyoto, to design it. A graduate of Cornell University, Mr. Keane has lived in Japan for almost 20 years and specializes in Japanese garden design. Like Shigemori, he has immersed himself in Japanese culture. His home and studio are now permanently in Kyoto.

Only three old, gnarled camellia trees remained on the rectangular site, with blossoms in season ranging from dark rose to pale pink and white. Mr. Keane’s idea was to represent the constant flux of nature, exemplified for him by the carbon cycle — the process by which carbon travels from the air into organisms and back into air. His garden, titled “Empty River,” creates what he described as “a physical expression of this invisible cycle through a river of pure carbon charcoal.”

He traced by foot a narrow serpentine “river” that winds around the roots and trunks of the camellias, and with the short charcoal sticks he placed in the long groove, it cuts a strong black line through a blend of fine brown and white gravel. There are no rocks, only small stones framing the courtyard and plantings, with Andromeda ferns in the corners. Its starkness is its beauty, softened only when camellia petals are strewed across the gravel in April.

Mr. Keane compares this distillation of design and materials to a haiku, the Japanese three-lined poem. But like the gardens of old, it also expresses the Buddhist concept of emptiness.

At Tofuku-ji , a temple, in the city’s southeastern district, Shigemori designed the garden of the Hojo, the Abbot’s Hall, as early as 1939, using materials found on site. His avant-garde vocabulary of straight lines and grids may have seemed sensational then, but it is beloved now for its harmonious vitality.

From the first veranda, you overlook the southern garden, with clusters of mostly jagged vertical rocks and ripples of raked gravel radiating out, terminating at the far end with five mossy mounds like sacred mountains in the sea. In the western garden, squarely trimmed azaleas alternate with square fields of white gravel, reflecting ancient land-division customs. Azaleas in Japan are closely clipped, so these bloom in gorgeous flat surfaces of deep pink.

Next, a vast checkerboard field of leftover square paving stones embedded in a carpet of moss seems to dwindle off to infinity in the northern garden. And finally, to the east, a pattern of stone pillar foundations recreates the Big Dipper constellation, with gravel raked in concentric circles around each pillar to emphasize its individuality.

Ukifune Garden

Mr. Keane’s 2022 Ukifune Garden (Drifting Boat Garden) is an allegorical interpretation of the chapter by the same name from “The Tale of Genji,” Murasaki Shikibu’s 11th-century novel about Prince Hikaru or “Shining” Genji, and his tempestuous romantic and political life at court.

Mr. Keane designed it as the Zen courtyard garden of the Genji Kyoto hotel, opened in April 2022, on the banks of the Kamo River, near where Genji builds his own grand estate and gardens in the book. Designed by the American architect Geoffrey P. Moussas, who also lives in Kyoto, the hotel’s plan incorporates the indoor-outdoor characteristics of Kyoto’s old merchant houses.

Mr. Keane was inspired by the “Genji” scene in which one of two powerful dignitaries vying for the favor of Ukifune, a woman of 22, travels through a snowstorm and absconds with her by boat on the Uji River. As they pass the Isle of Orange Trees, she recites a poem in which she likens herself to the drifting boat: “The enduring hue of the Isle of Orange Trees may well never change,/ yet there is no knowing now where the drifting boat is bound.”

Mr. Keane consulted with John Carpenter, the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s curator of Japanese art, who told him of the late-16th-century “Genji” screen painting by Tosa Mitsuyoshi in the museum’s collection illustrating this famous scene. A copy of the panel now hangs in Kyoto next to the garden.

Mr. Keane installed a swerving “river” with gray river stones set ingeniously on edge rather than flat, giving the flow a greater sense of direction. The garden is set between two wings of the hotel, and the “water” appears to tumble down like a waterfall from one building into the next with a wide, flat steel bridge above, a viewing platform bringing the design to life. The banks on either side are densely planted with maple trees, lady palms, ferns and ground-cover moss. And a boat-shaped stone carries a large patch of moss, which Mr. Keane interprets as Earth drifting through the galaxy.

The gardens at Zuiho-in and the Tofuku-ji Abbot’s Hall garden require tickets. The entrance fee at both is 400 Japanese yen for adults (about $2.65) and 300 yen for children (about $2).

General admission to Honen-in is free, except for during the spring and fall opening weeks, which usually fall during the first week of April and the third week of November and cost 500 yen for spring and 800 yen for fall. The Empty River garden can be visited during those weeks.

The Genji Kyoto hotel garden is free to visit.

If you get hungry while touring gardens, Izusen , a restaurant in the Daiji-in subtemple of the Daitoku-ji monastery complex, offers multiple local specialties in set menus beautifully presented in mostly lacquered red bowls, which nest when empty. Open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. by reservation; 4,370 to 8,050 yen. It is near Zuiho-in.

Also by reservation, Yudofu Kisaki, a restaurant between the entrance to Honen-in and the Philosopher’s Walk, has vegetarian and tofu specialties. Open 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., last order at 6 p.m.; 4,370 to 8,050 yen.

For a companionable book to read on your tour, the Nobel Prize-winning novelist Yasunari Kawabata’s post-World War II novel “The Rainbow” is newly available in English. Several chapters take place in Kyoto, and it can feel as though you are traveling together, often in the same gardens. Kawabata’s knowledge of plants was formidable, and the simplicity of his descriptions both natural and direct: “On the lawn in front of the gate, in the shadows of the pine trees, dandelions and lotuses were in bloom. A double-flowered camellia had blossomed in front of the bamboo fence.”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

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Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

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Southern California :  Skip the freeways to explore the back roads between Los Angeles and Los Olivos , a 100-mile route that meanders through mountains, canyons and star-studded enclaves.

Mongolia : Some young people, searching for less curated travel experiences, are flocking to the open spaces of this East Asian nation .

Romania :  Timisoara  may be the most noteworthy city you’ve probably never heard of , offering just enough for visitors to fill two or three days.

India: A writer fulfilled a lifelong dream of visiting Darjeeling, in the Himalayan foothills , taking in the tea gardens and riding a train through the hills.

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

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  1. 15 Must Visit Kyoto Attractions & Travel Guide

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  2. 7 Places in Japan You Must Visit in 2017

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  3. Top 15 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Japan

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  4. Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto

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  5. 25 Top Things to Do in Kyoto : Kyoto Bucket List 2019

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  6. 25 Most Beautiful Places in Japan

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  1. Tokyo Uncovered: Top 10 Must-Visit Spots

  2. Top 7 Must Visit Spots in Tokyo #topdestinations #adventure #explore #explore #tourism #top

  3. exposing my secret spot in tokyo 🙈

  4. Exploring Nagasaki: A Tour of its Must-Visit Spots

  5. 3 TOP SPOTS to visit in JAPAN!

COMMENTS

  1. 18 Best Places to Visit in Japan

    Izu Peninsula. #18 in Best Places to Visit in Japan. This peninsula situated 62 miles southwest of Tokyo makes a great getaway from the busy city. It is popular among locals and tourists alike ...

  2. 16 Unmissable Places to Visit in Japan in 2024

    Fushimi Inari shrine in Kyoto is one of the must see places in Japan. 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 ...

  3. 10 best places to visit in Japan

    The park around the museum, much of which was designed by Japan's great modernist architect Tange Kenzō, offers many opportunities for reflection. But the city's spirit of determination - as well as its food - will ensure that you'll have good memories to take with you when you leave. 6. Yakushima.

  4. 21 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Japan

    Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Hiroshima. 4. Historic Kyoto. Bamboo forest in Kyoto. 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.

  5. The 15 BEST Places to Visit in Japan (2024 Guide)

    5) Hakone. 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.

  6. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Japan

    2. Kinkakuji Temple. 17,263. Religious Sites. One of Kyoto's most famous attractions, this temple was originally built in 1397 as a residence for shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. The structure was completely covered in gold leaf, earning it the name Golden Pavilion. See full details.

  7. 24 best things to do in Japan

    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.

  8. 30 Best Destinations in Japan

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

  9. 33 Epic Things to Do in Japan [2024 Ultimate Guide]

    This is a must on any trip to Japan. Don't miss the best things to do in Osaka! 6. Immerse Yourself in the Ghibli Museum. ... The Resting Place of the Shoguns is definitely one of the most fascinating places to visit in Japan. 14. Be in Awe of Tokyo's Oldest Temple, the Senso-ji Temple ...

  10. 24 of the most beautiful places you should visit in Japan

    Japan's crown jewel and arguably the most beautiful place in the country, Mt Fuji is a must for any visitor. There are plenty of places to see the grand mountain, but the views from Arakurayama ...

  11. 24 Unique & Best Places to Visit in Japan for Every Traveller

    Kyoto: A Japan must-see city. Miyajima: One of the best day trip destinations. Nikko: One of the most beautiful places to visit in Japan. Takayama: One of the unique alternatives to Kyoto. Kurashiki: One of the unique places to visit in Japan. Nagasaki: City of Million Dollar Views. Arita: The best place to visit in Japan for porcelain.

  12. A guide to 15 the best places to visit in Japan

    5. Kyoto mountains. Kyoto is, without a doubt, the image you had in mind when you set out on your trip to Japan. It is simply the most beautiful place in Japan. It's here where you'll find wooden teahouses and Geishas in brightly colored kimonos, Zen gardens and temples; it's thought there are over a thousand here.

  13. 26 Best Places to Visit in Japan & Things to Do

    22. Kobe. Kobe is Japan's seventh-largest city, so it's not really talked about as much as Tokyo, Osaka, or Kyoto as one of the must-see Japanese tourist attractions. Still, according to many experts, it might just be the best city in all of Japan to visit, if not the single-best tourist attraction.

  14. Top Places to See in Japan in 2024: 20 Cities We Love

    VIEW TOURS THAT VISIT OSAKA FOR 2024, 2025 & 2026. 3. KYOTO. When you step into Kyoto, Japanese history comes to life right before your eyes. Unlike other major cities in Japan, Kyoto came out of WWII unscathed, and most of its historical and culturally significant sites have survived the centuries.

  15. The must-see places to visit in Japan

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

  16. 8 Great Places to Visit in Japan

    7. Matsumoto, Nagano. Arts and crafts define this city. Visit the Japan Ukiyo-e Museum, the largest collection of Japanese woodblock prints in the nation. The Mingei-kan Museum showcases Mingei traditional folk crafts, and the Matsumoto City Museum of Art has a permanent exhibit of Yayoi Kusama, a Matsumoto native.

  17. 20 Must-Visit Places for Tourists in Japan

    The Lee Ufan Museum - 1,030 yen (opening hours: 10:00 - last entry 17:30) The Chichu Art Museum - 2,060 yen (opening hours: 10:00 - last entry 17:00) I Luv Yu - 510 yen. 4. Osaka Castle. Built in 1586 by famous warrior and politician, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, Osaka Castle was once the largest fortress in the country.

  18. 12 Most Beautiful Places in Japan to Visit

    6. Himeji Castle. Often considered Japan's most spectacular castle, Himeji Castle is a shining example of classic Japanese architecture.This unique place to visit in Japan is also known as "White Heron Castle" due to its elegant, white appearance. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a National Treasure of Japan.

  19. 35 Best Places To Visit In Japan In 2024

    Fukuoka - Japan's Oldest City. Hitsujiyama Park - For An Enormous Sight. Hakone - Views Of Mount Fuji. 1. Tokyo - Essence Of Japan. Image Source. 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.

  20. Kyoto Bucket List: 18 Amazing Things to do in Kyoto, Japan

    9. Take a Stroll on the Philosopher's Path. The Philosopher's Path is stone path that follows beside a canal. It is lined with cherry trees and during the spring months, this is one of the most popular places to visit in Kyoto, in order to see the blooms. The Philosopher's Path starts near Ginkaku-ji Temple.

  21. 19 Essential Things to Do in Tokyo + Neighborhoods to Visit

    Considered the first public park in Tokyo, Ueno is an ideal place for a leisurely stroll in the city. Formerly part of Kaneiji Temple, Ueno Park is now home to the Ueno Zoo (considered Japan's ...

  22. Top 10 Must Visit Places in Japan

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

  23. 17 Best Things to do in Tokyo, Japan (2024 Travel Itinerary)

    10. See the Snow Monkeys. Seeing snow monkeys in their natural habitat is a bucket list experience and, without a doubt, one of the best things to do on your trip to Tokyo! Just a 3-hour drive away is the city of Nagano, which is a jumping-off point to see these remarkable animals.

  24. 40 Most Beautiful Places in Japan

    This is one of the must-see places in Japan. Truly a national treasure, the Fushimi Inari Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Kyoto, Japan, famous for its thousands of vibrant orange torii gates ...

  25. 4 Kyoto Gardens to Find a Moment of Zen

    Zuiho-in. The dry garden at Zuiho-in may at first appear traditional, but it was designed in the 1960s by Mirei Shigemori. Andrew Faulk for The New York Times. Upon arrival at the Zen monastery ...

  26. Google Maps will now curate and recommend must-see places

    March 27, 2024. Google Maps has introduced a bunch of new features to enhance the user experience while navigating locations. One of them uses AI for a curated list of recommendations, letting you ...