Are you a Japanese lover? Are you looking to visit Japanese cities and beautiful places in Japan? Japan offers a plethora of stunning destinations to explore year-round. The hardest part is deciding which location you want to visit the most. Some, like the Wisteria Tunnel at Kawachi Fuji Garden or the cherry blossoms at Ueno Park, are unique to a certain season.
While there are other fantastic sites to see all year round, these locations are best seen at their prime. Kyoto’s Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a fantastic location for photos, and strolling along the walkways when a little breeze sways the bamboo stalks is a sensation that cannot be described. Even the Kyoto-based Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion), which has higher floors coated in gold leaf and is mirrored in a pond, is breathtaking to see.
Anyone who has been there will tell you that Japan is unquestionably one of the most breathtaking countries on earth. The nation has a wide variety of landscapes and cultural experiences, including futuristic skylines, ancient temples, snow-capped mountains, and subtropical beaches. Even though you could live a lifetime discovering all of the wonderfully bizarre islands and cities, we advise you to begin with this list.
The Cool Places To Go In Japan
For those who are already familiar with this magical nation, we’ll explore some of its most unique locations. Not that other places aren’t charming; we just feel that these specific locations are the pinnacle of Nihon-poi.
Things with distinctively Japanese characteristics—or, if you prefer, Japonesque—are referred to as nihon-poi.
- Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
- Himeji Castle
- The Itsukushima Shrine
- The Nachi Falls
- Takayama
- Hitachi Beach Park
- Kenroku-en.
1. BAMBOO GROVE ARASHIYAMA
This gorgeous bamboo grove is near Kyoto, and it seems like another universe. It’s regarded as one of the most well-liked attractions in Kyoto, Japan. The bamboo trees in the forest may reach heights of 30 meters, and many have been there for more than a century.
To stand among these verdant behemoths is to disengage from all the confusion of everyday existence. You cannot comprehend it by watching films or looking at photographs. To really “get it,” you have to go through it yourself.
Early morning or late afternoon, when sunshine filters through the trees, is the ideal time to explore the forest. You may want to take a ride on the Rickshaw Ride around Arashiyama. You will pass through Bamboo Grove as well. This is a tour of a ritualistic Japan not often seen anywhere else.
2. HIMEJI PALACE
Himeji Castle, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is among the outstanding examples of a Japanese castle. Seen from a distance, the stunning white facade is unmistakable since it is made of a special plaster called “Shikkui.”
Plaster was formerly employed as a status symbol on castles, temples, and Samurai residences. It is a mixture of lime, crushed seashells, and other natural ingredients that spread in layers to make a glossy, smooth surface that reflects light.
Built by the Japanese in the 1600s, Himeji Castle is a prime example of the “hirajiro” feudal architectural style due to its massive scale, intricate design, and highly developed defense mechanisms.
The castle’s elaborate system of walkways and bridges links more than 80 structures, including towers and gates, to confuse invaders by forming a labyrinthine passageway system with hidden chambers and winding hallways.
But do not be alarmed; as a guest, you are welcome to explore several of the castle’s halls and chambers that have been painstakingly restored to their former splendor. A tall, six-story tower with stunning views of the surroundings and graceful gates with intricate carvings and artwork adorn the castle.
3. SHINE ITSUKUSHIMA
Located on the island of Miyajima in Hiroshima Prefecture, Miyajima Shrine is a Shinto shrine that was constructed as a hallowed space devoted to the three daughters of Susano-o no Mikoto, the deity of storms and seas.
This probably explains the design of the most recognizable feature of Itsukushima Shrine, the floating Torri gate, which appears to float on the water during high tide, providing a picturesque and breathtaking view. The gate has been there for over a century, though it is not the original, which was built in the 12th century.
The shrine’s honden, or main hall, is a remarkable example of Shinden-zukuri architecture, which was widespread during the Heian era. Japan has recognized it as a National Treasure. The temple is raised on stilts that will enable it to “float” on the water.
After leaving the temple, you’ll come across something else this island is well-known for deer. In Shinto mythology, these stunning creatures are said to be the gods’ messengers, and they’re allowed to wander the island. Everything flows together so naturally that the mood is serene.
4. THE NACHI FALLS
The Nachi Falls are located in Nachikatsuura Town, Wakayama Prefecture, on the southern shore of the Kii Peninsula. This area is referred to as Nachi-Katsuura and is home to ancient attractions such as the Nachi Taisha Great Shrine.
Along with Kegon Falls and Fukuroda Falls, Nachi Falls is one of the most magnificent waterfalls in Japan, standing at 133 meters high and 13 meters broad. Its surrounding deep trees have long inspired people to revere the waterfall, which is surrounded by lush woodlands.
At the base of the falls is a little pond known as “Dragon’s Pond,” where local legend holds that a dragon-headed deity resides. From here, it’s a 10-minute walk to the Nachi Taisha Grand temple, an important and ancient temple dating back 1400 years in Japan.
Beyond its historical and religious importance, Nachi Taisha Great Shrine is also known for its breathtaking surrounds, which include towering trees and a very lush setting.
You may take a boat ride or a short hike to a viewing platform to get a closer look at the waterfall. Once you reach the top of the stairway, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
5. TAKAYAMA
Takayama is a historic city in the Hida area of Gifu prefecture that is well-known for its intact Edo-era architecture. When visiting Takayama, be sure to visit Sanmachi, a tiny neighborhood filled with several merchant homes, traditional stores, and sake breweries.
The majority of these structures were built with thick thatched roofs, latticed windows, and dark, solid wood. These seemingly little elements give these shops and residences a distinctly old-world feel.
A well-liked outdoor museum in Takayama, the Hida Folk Village features traditional homes and businesses from the area. Almost thirty meticulously repaired and moved buildings, including workshops, stores, and farmhouses, may be found here.
A much-anticipated event in Takayama, the Takayama Matsuri is a twice-yearly spring and autumn festival that features traditional music and dance performances as well as magnificent floats adorned with intricate metalwork, fabrics, and sculptures.
Takayama is a terrific place to go if you’re seeking for delicate food. This lovely city offers wagyu beef (which is noted for its excellent flavor and gentle texture) in a variety of forms.
6. SEA SIDE PARK IN HITACHI
Hitachi Seaside Park is a large public area that covers 350 hectares (35 km^2) and has a variety of landforms, including ponds, large meadows, and woods.
With more than 4.5 million flowers planted all year round, the park is sure to make you smile no matter what time of year you visit. But if you want an absolutely spectacular experience, go in late April when the hills are covered in the deep blue tones of the Nemophila Harmony flowers in full bloom.
Beyond its breathtaking floral displays, Hitachi Seaside Park provides a variety of leisure opportunities for visitors. Whether you enjoy riding, picnicking, or just meandering through the park’s many gardens and pathways, there’s something for everyone. For those seeking excitement, there are several rides to try, including a roller coaster and a ferris wheel.
7. KENROKU-EN
Kenroku-en is located close to Kanazawa on the west coast of Honshu Island. The Maeda clan created this lovely garden 200 years ago, and it hasn’t lost its allure.
Kenroku-en, which translates to “Garden of the Six Characteristics,” is a garden that encompasses the six attributes—space, isolation, human artifice, antiquity, water features, and panoramas—that are said to make up the ideal garden.
As a result, the garden is divided into many areas, each with its unique features. The centerpiece of the park is the Kasumigaike Pond, which is surrounded by pathways, bridges, and teahouses.
The garden’s emblem is the Kotoji-toro lantern, which reflects its light in the still waters of the pond to create a lovely sight. At the 18th-century Yugao-tei teahouse, you may partake in traditional Japanese tea rituals.
Another part of the garden is the Hisago-ike pond, with its large waterfall and many islands; a popular spot for photos is the pine tree Neagari-no-Matsu, which has been forced to grow horizontally.
Naturally, this is the location of the blooming cherry blossom, which is typical of Japan and turns the garden into an iconic pink sea in the spring.
Other Locations to See
Azaleas and Cherry Blossoms at Mifuneyama Rakuen
Kyushu | Prefecture of Saga
A 150,000 square meter park located in Saga Prefecture, Mifuneyama Rakuen is best seen in the spring when the azaleas and cherry blossoms are in full bloom. It is an amazing sight to behold, full of color that will leave anybody in amazement.
Tunnel of Wisteria in Kawachi Fuji Gardens
Fukuoka Prefecture | Kitakyushu | Kyushu
At Kawachi Fuji Gardens, the 100-year-old wisteria trees meet you at the end of the Wisteria Tunnel, which is covered with the flower’s trellises. As you go through the area, different colors of wisteria hang from the tunnel, giving it a rainbow appearance.
Ashikaga Flower Park’s magnificent wisteria
Ashikaga | Tochigi Prefecture | Kanto
Over 150 years old, the Great Wisteria at Ashikaga Flower Park is so big that it spans more than 1000 square meters, or more than 600 tatami mats. The branches are held up by several supports to balance the weight of the vines during the flowering season.
Shibazakura Festival in Fuji
Chubu | Fuji Five Lakes | Yamanashi Prefecture
Three kilometers away from Lake Motosuko lies the Fuji Shibazakura Festival, a month-long celebration with over 800,000 moss phlox blossoms.
Kurobe Alpine Route in Tateyama
Tateyama | Chubu
Explore the well-known and highly sought-after Alpine Route in the Japanese Alps. This route, which passes through valleys and mountains and offers some of the most breathtaking vistas in all of Japan, requires a variety of types of transportation.
Asparagus in Hokkaido
Hokkaido
Hokkaido’s lavender season is a wonderful opportunity to get away from the muggy summertime temperatures that are prevalent across most of Japan.
Snow Monkeys
Chubu | Yamanouchi | Nagano Prefecture
In Japan, snow monkeys, also called Japanese macaques, are primates that dwell in regions that get continuous snowfall for months at a time.
Snow Snowlight Path in Otaru
Otaru | Hokkaido
Over the course of ten days, the city of Otaru is decorated with snow lanterns as part of the Snow Light Path celebration.
Blue Lake
Furano | Hokkaido
Outside the onsen (hot spring) village of Shirogane is the Blue Pond, also called Aoiike in Japanese. The rich blue hue of the water is caused by minerals that dissolve naturally in the water.
Eliminate Stream
Lake Towada | Aomori Prefecture | Tohoku
One of the greatest spots to see fall foliage is the Oirase Mountain Stream, which is Lake Towada’s sole outflow.
Flowers with Baby Blue Eyes in Hitachi Seaside Park
Hitachinaka | Ibaraki Prefecture | Kanto
At the Hitachi Seaside Park in Ibaraki Prefecture, there are more than 4.5 million baby blue-eyed flowers that bloom from mid-April to mid-May.
Matsushima
Miyagi Prefecture | Matsushima | Tohoku
Matsushima, which is thirty minutes from Sendai, is renowned for having one of the most picturesque vistas in all of Japan.
Shirakawago
Chubu, Shirakawago, Gifu Prefecture
Shirakawago Village, which is surrounded by mountains in the prefectures of Gifu and Toyama, is home to the well-known Gassho zukuri (prayer hand farmhouses), which have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Bamboo Forest of Arashiyama
Kyoto | Kansai
North of the Tenryuji Temple entrance, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is one of the most photographed locations in Kyoto, along with Kinkakuji and Fushimi Inari Shrine.
Takeda Castle
Hyogo Prefecture | Asago | Kansai
Known as the Machu Picchu of Japan or the Castle in the Sky, Takeda Castle is in Asago City in the northern section of Hyogo Prefecture. The castle was abandoned and is now in ruins.
Himeji Castle
Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture, and Kansai
Himeji Castle, one of the outstanding examples of a maintained castle ground, is one of the twelve ancient castles in Japan and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Sand Dunes of Tottori
Chugoku | Prefecture of Tottori | Tottori
The biggest sand dunes in Japan are the Tottori Sand Dunes, which stretch over 16 kilometers along the Sea of Japan coast as a part of Sanin Kaigan National Park. The dunes are situated in the city of Tottori.
Area of the Kurashiki Canal
Chugoku | Kurashiki | Okayama Prefecture
The Kurashiki Canal Area sometimes called the Bikan Historical Quarter, played a key role in the distribution of rice in enormous amounts. Along the canal are vast storehouses that have been turned into different facilities while retaining its Edo ambiance.
Island of Miyajima
Chugoku | Miyajima Island | Hiroshima Prefecture
Miyajima Island, an hour’s boat ride from Hiroshima, is most famous for its torii gate, which during high tide creates the appearance of floating on the ocean; the view from the gate is considered one of Japan’s top three sights.
Shrine of Motonosumi-Inari
Chugoku | Prefecture of Yamaguchi | Nagato
The 123 red torii gates that descend a mountainside into the Sea of Japan, surrounded by lush foliage, make up Motonosumi Inari Shrine, which CNN named one of the top 31 beautiful sites in Japan.
Adachi Art Museum
Chugoku | Prefecture of Shimane | Matsue
The Adachi Museum of Art is situated in Yasugi, Shimane Prefecture, and its Zen gardens have been recognized as one of the top Japanese gardens in the nation on an annual basis.
Kaido Shimanami
Chugoku | Onomichi | Hiroshima Prefecture
A toll road called Shimanami Kaido links the Shikoku area to the main island of Honshu by way of six tiny islands.
Takachiho Gorge
Miyazaki Prefecture | Takachiho | Kyushu
The Gokase River carved out the stunning Takachiho Gorge, which is located in the northern region of Miyazaki Prefecture in the heart of the Kyushu Mountains.
