Are you a Japanese lover? Are you looking to visit Japanese cities and beautiful places in Japan? Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka will undoubtedly make the list. Can you, however, envision another thirteen cities that are just as appealing? Perhaps you’ll discover something even more alluring. Japan is one of the greatest places to deviate from the original schedule, in our opinion.
- Tokyo
- Kyoto
- Osaka
- Hiroshima
- Sapporo
- Yokohama
- Fukuoka
- Hakone
- Nara
- Nagoya
- Kobe
- Kanazawa
- The Kamakura
- Nikko
- Shirakawa
- Shikoku
- Karuizawa
- Otaru
- Himeji
- Hida-Takayama
1. TOKYO
Tokyo is Japan’s liveliest metropolis; there is nothing else like it. It’s difficult to control your enthusiasm when you see all the skyscrapers, bullet trains, neon signs, and hustling people. You’ll want to start exploring the vibrant city right away, seeing every corner.
Tokyo is not so much a single large metropolitan region as it is a conglomeration of expansive cities. Each of the many districts has a unique character and story to tell.
A good place to begin your adventure would be Tokyo Skytree, which soars 634 meters (2,080 feet) over the skyline of the capital. Japan is well-known for its observation decks on Tokyo’s tallest tower, which offer stunning views over the entire city.
2. KYOTO
Kyoto is referred to as the “cultural capital” if it is thought of as Japan’s future metropolis. Despite having identical names, the two cities’ vibes and atmospheres couldn’t be more different.
You’re in for a treat if you’re interested in temples. Kiyomizu-dera Temple, for example, is one of the most well-known locations in Japan and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You may walk there in ten minutes from the Gojozaka bus station.
You know that picture of a thousand crimson temple gates that never stop running? It is from the shrine of Fushimi Inari. There are around 30,000 Inari temples across the nation, including this Shinto shrine in Southern Kyoto.
In addition to the mountain paths, Yotsutsuji junction is a popular destination because it offers stunning views of the whole city. Since foxes are said to be the messengers of the divine deity worshiped here, the area is likewise teeming with them.
3. OTAKA
Without question, the best spot to go in Japan during the fall is Osaka. October marks the beginning of the vibrant autumn foliage. In December, when you can take in the stunning view of the changing leaves, Osaka is the greatest time to visit.
Traveling to Osaka and all of Japan is also highly recommended during the Sakura (cherry blossom) season, which spans from late March to mid-April.At that point, a delicate pink splendor covers the entire nation.
ka Castle is without a doubt the most visited tourist destination in Osaka. The castle tower has 450 years of history and many interesting tales to share. The parks that surround the massive buildings are also quite popular since they have beautiful scenery.
The Dotonbori neighborhood is a great spot to see another aspect of Osaka. This popular tourist area, which is full of bright neon signs, clubs, pubs, and restaurants, is best visited at night.
4. HIROSHIMA
Recognized for its devastating history of nuclear assault, Hiroshima is now one of Japan’s most popular tourist destinations. Rewind the clock a bit farther, and you’ll discover that this was once a fortress town that was crucial to many conflicts. The location is readily accessible by JR Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen from Tokyo or Osaka.
The most popular tourist destinations in Japan are located in downtown Hiroshima and are devoted to honoring the memory of the bomb’s victims: the Peace Memorial Museum, Peace Memorial Park, and the Atomic Bomb Dome.
Miyajima Island is about a 30-minute train ride from Hiroshima. Because of its religious and historical importance, this charming tiny island is known as “the island of the gods.” Numerous sites are worth seeing, including Virgin Forest, Mount Misen, and Itsukushima Shrine.
5. SAPPORO
Sapporo, the biggest city in the country’s northernmost region, may be familiar to visitors to Tokyo. It is also regarded as one of the world’s and Japan’s snowiest travel spots. With a lot of snowfall, Sapporo became the first Asian city to host the Winter Olympics, further shaping the city’s character. In addition, the city hosts the renowned Sapporo Snow Festival, which features beautifully sculpted ice and snow sculptures, drawing nearly two million visitors annually.
The observation deck of the Sapporo TV Tower, which is situated at a height of 90.38 meters (296 feet), is the greatest place to get an unhindered view of Odori Park and Sapporo. Furthermore, Sapporo is where miso ramen first appeared, so make sure to try this well-known national dish. Ganso Sapporo Ramen Yokocho, often known as “ramen alley,” is the place to go if you want to look for this filling bowl of Japanese noodles.
6. YOKOHAMA
Yokohama is a well-liked family vacation spot and one of the most well-known tourist destinations in Japan. This city has a large family population, therefore, there are many kid-friendly activities you can take your kids to. It’s a fantastic location to spend a day or two away from Tokyo.
Both residents and visitors like visiting Zoological Gardens Zoorasia. This enormous zoo is divided into eight parts replicating a natural animal habitat inside a large space. For those who like the outdoors and animals, it is a must-see.
7. FUKUOKA
Nestled in the north of Kyushu, Fukuoka is a key entry point to the magical regions of Asia. As one of Japan’s main transportation hubs, Fukuoka Airport guarantees easy access to the city from a wide range of Asian locations.
The breathtaking Fukutsu Sea Mirror, a natural phenomenon that produces a magnificent sea “reflection” on the Fukutsu shore at the proper tide, is located close by.
The wonders of Kyushu don’t stop there, however; a quick 2-hour ride on the Kyushu Expressway train brings you to the magnificent Takachiho Gorge, which is home to a magnificent waterfall that attracts hordes of tourists with its spectacular beauty.
8. HAKO
Those looking for well-known locations in Japan with the greatest hot springs can think about going to Hakone. Tokyo is just a couple of hours away from the mountain town. Coming here to take an Onsen (Japanese hot springs) bath is a popular attraction for many visitors.
A well-liked stop on the Hakone round circuit is Owakudani. Approximately three millennia ago, a volcanic eruption created the valley. Hot springs and sulfur vents are abundant in the area as a result. Once you step foot here, you have to sample kuro-tamago, which are black eggs cooked in hot spring water.
There are many excellent places to see the stunning view of Mount Fuji from a distance, including the Moto Hakone region, the Hakone Detached Palace, the boats on the lake, etc. Whichever option you choose, the clean air in this area will provide you with a better perspective.
Do you know anything about shinrin-yoku, or “forest bathing”? This treatment approach—its name speaks for itself—involves going for a walk in a woodland setting and experiencing everything with all of your senses. Hakone Kuzuryu Forest, next to Lake Ashi, is one of the greatest locations to practice it.
9. NARA
Since Nara is just a short drive from major towns like Kyoto and Osaka, it should be at the top of your list of places to visit in Japan. It’s reasonable to claim that the city is among the top sites to visit in Japan to learn about its rich history and cultural values since it was once the country’s imperial capital (between 710 and 784).
Since 1998, the Ancient Nara Historic Monuments have been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The complex consists of eight distinct cultural treasures, including a palace site, a forest, and temples. Around Nara, several old Japanese Buddhist structures and artifacts are just waiting to be found.
Did you know that the city’s emblem is a deer? According to tradition, Takemikazuchi, a god, rode a celestial white deer to the ancient city of Nara. This makes the animal considered sacrosanct. Nara Park is a very well-liked location for feeding and mingling with around a thousand cute deer.
10. NAGOYA
Situated in the middle of the country, Nagoya is a great starting point for touring other popular tourist destinations in Japan, such as Kyoto, Takayama, and Kiso Valley. It serves as both the financial center and a major metropolis in Central Japan.
A visit to the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry & Technology is essential, regardless of your level of interest in cars. Schoolchildren and elderly people wearing white are among the guests. Everyone travels to this location to marvel at the models in their regal poses and the history of one of the greatest corporations in Japan.
Even though Nagoya is a young, contemporary city, it has a rich history. A glimpse of the ancient civilizations of the Land of the Rising Sun may be seen in many locations, such as Nagoya Castle and Atsuta Jingu.
Aside from the stunning locations, don’t forget to savor the rich regional cuisines, which are found across Japan. Miso katsu, a dish of deep-fried pork cutlet with a thick, dark-brown sauce, is something you should definitely try when you are in Nagoya.
11. KOE
Many people have likely heard of Kobe beef, which is among the priciest beef in the world. Osaka Bay, a seaside city, is more than that, however. Kobe has much to see and do, from strolling around the historic Kitano neighborhood to admiring the breathtaking view from the world’s longest suspension bridge.
The city is a must-visit destination in Japan if you wish to see the fascinating fusion of Western and Japanese cultures. It was once a bustling port town. Visit Kitano-cho Ijinkan (Old Quarter) to see around twenty public historical and cultural sites designed in the Western style.
Try getting lost in Kobe’s vibrant Chinatown Nankin-machi streets for a change of pace. Various vendors offering delectable street cuisine are along the streets. It is the greatest thing ever to stroll while snacking, particularly while admiring magnificent buildings with Chinese influences.
12. KANAZAWA
Despite their considerable distance from one another, Tokyo can readily travel to the capital city of Ishikawa Prefecture. It just takes two and a half hours to go by bullet train to Kanazawa, where anybody may spend a day exploring its astoundingly rich cultural history.
One of Japan’s most famous and intriguing tourist attractions is the geisha. You can interact directly with these female performers by going to the teahouses located in the Higashi Chaya District. If you have a fascination with samurai, you should visit Nagamachi, the Samurai district.
You should schedule time to visit the nearby Kenroku-en, even though many would advise you to spend your time at the magnificent Kanazawa Castle. This gorgeously designed garden is the ideal setting for shinrin-yoku exercises.
13. KAMAKURA
The many historical sites, sandy beaches, and more than a hundred temples and shrines make Kamakura a popular tourist destination in Japan. The little city is known as “Kyoto in Eastern Japan” with good cause. It would be a pity to miss the stunning Buddhist temple Kōtoku-in while visiting Kamakura. Japan’s second-tallest bronze statue of the Buddha. Encircled by verdant environment, the Great Buddha statue measures 11.4 meters (37.4 feet) tall, sitting straight in the open area.
Travelers have long flocked to see the massive bronze statue, which was built in 1252. Come to Kamakura Yuigahama Beach if you’ve always wanted to submerge yourself in the deep blue water; your wish will be fulfilled. The Southern Kamakura coastline consists of four beaches, including this one. At the perfect temperature, the water is. You will have a great time at this wonderful beach, we are sure of it.
14. NIKKO
Nikko is the ideal destination for anyone seeking refuge from the bustling streets of Tokyo. It is easy to see why Nikko is one of the best locations to go to in Japan, with its UNESCO World Heritage Sites and areas of natural beauty. The hamlet serves as a gateway to the region’s top attraction, Nikko National Park. Shrine and temples with breathtaking views of the mountains may be found there. Tosho-gu Shrine, honoring Tokugawa Ieyasu, one of Japan’s three unifiers, is the absolute must-see location.
This opulent tomb consists of 103 buildings decorated with gold leaf and wood sculptures. Kegon Falls, one of Japan’s three most beautiful waterfalls, is located in Nikko. There are two viewing decks available for this natural phenomenon: a free upper deck and a paid lower deck. Both provide breathtaking views of this amazing natural beauty.
15. SHIRAKAWA
Shirakawago is a must-see location for tourists visiting Japan. It is well-known for being the Shirakawa-go (Shirakawa Village) cultural heritage site, which is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The thatched-roofed Gassho farmhouses, some of which are over 250 years old, are the town’s most famous feature in the Japanese mountains. These homes, built in the Gassho style, are not your usual Japanese farmhouses. They are enormous, with high thatched roofs that are three feet thick.
The dwellings are built in this manner because of the frequent snowfall. They are also supposed to resemble monks’ hands clasped together in prayer. Japanese people employed the attic area on the roofspace as a workplace in the Edo and early Showa periods, especially for silk raising. Not to be overlooked, however, are the breathtaking surroundings that enclose these architectural wonders. It’s also worthwhile to explore the Sho River, rice fields, and verdant surroundings.
16. SHIKOKU
Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Seto Inland Sea, Shikoku is an island located southwest of Honshu in Japan. When visiting this site in Japan, one should be prepared for the best because of its location: delicious cuisine, stunning scenery, and an extensive and intriguing history. The Ritsurin Garden, a “special place of scenic beauty,” would be the first stop for most people. This cultural asset from the 16th century is regarded as Japan’s biggest Cultural Property Garden. Encompassing over 75 hectares (185 acres), this is one of the best locations to visit in Japan with plenty to discover.
One of the numerous Instagrammable and unforgettable places in Japan is Vine Bridges in the Iya Valley. The enchanted vines bridge that slithers over the lake is located in one of Japan’s least visited areas. Because the vines are changed every three years and are further strengthened with concealed steel and cable, they are both fascinating and secure to cross. Japan’s most picturesque locations are a true treasure to be discovered.
Japan is renowned for being among the cleanest and safest nations on earth. Thus, any tourist may visit this beautiful country with very little effort. Japan’s most picturesque locations are not merely found in mountain ranges and tall buildings. There are architectural marvels and interesting things to do around every turn. You should go there at least once in your lifetime. Are you going to visit the country of the rising sun, or have you already? Additionally, remember to use the “Share” button to let others know about this amazing land’s beauty.
Hida-Takayama
Hida-Takayama is known as “Little Kyoto” due to the large number of temples, shrines, and charming 18th-century structures in the area. Surrounded by the Hida Mountains, which overlook a panorama of riverbank markets, traditional stores, and Japanese-style inns, the town is renowned for its superb sake. The city’s Historic District is centered on San-machi Suji Street, which is home to several buildings that are accessible via blue noren (fabric) curtains.
Hemeji
Approximately one hour’s train ride from Kyoto and Osaka, the seaside city of Himeji is home to one of Japan’s most stunning ancient landmarks. Rising above the city, the 83-building Himeji Castle is a centuries-old fortress with a magnificent white façade that can be seen for miles.
Make sure to visit the Kokoen Gardens, which are located next door and include koi ponds, waterfalls, and flora that symbolize the best of Japan’s four seasons, as well as take a boat ride around the moat. April is a highly sought-after month for visits to Himeji, when the over 1,000 cherry trees around the castle burst into blossom.
Otaru
After Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost prefecture, was settled in the late 1800s, tiny Odau developed into a significant fishing harbor. This location later served as the location of Hokkaido’s first railway line terminal station. Along with the rest of the prefecture, the town’s charming canal, which is bordered by historic warehouses, is well-known for being one of the best spots in Japan to eat fresh fish.
Towards the center of town are peaceful neighborhoods interspersed with opulent herring palaces, despite the fact that the canal region may grow congested with Japanese visitors. The village is especially lovely in February during the Otaru Snow Gleaming Festival, when shimmering snow lanterns line the canal.
Karuizawa
Nestled behind the towering Mt. Asama, one of Honshū’s most active volcanoes, lies the quaint resort town of Karuizawa. Yacho-no-mori (Wild Bird Forest), which is home to over 60 different bird species, and hot springs are popular day trips from Tokyo, which is about an hour away by high-speed rail. Karuizawa has maintained its image as a romantic getaway since Emperor Akihito met Empress Michiko there in 1957. The town is especially worth visiting in the fall for its breathtaking foliage.
