From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the ancient shrines of Kyoto, Japan is a country full of fascinating sights and experiences.
With its unique culture and diverse range of attractions, Japan is a must-visit destination for travelers.
Whether you’re looking to explore modern cities, visit traditional shrines and temples, or just relax and enjoy nature, there are plenty of amazing best places to visit in Japan.
From Tokyo to Osaka and everywhere in between, here are the 15 best places to visit in Japan.
1) Tokyo
One of the best places to visit in Japan is Tokyo. As Japan’s capital and largest city, it is packed with things to do, see and explore. From traditional shrines and temples to modern skyscrapers and vibrant nightlife, Tokyo offers something for everyone.
Spend your day visiting world-famous attractions like the Imperial Palace, Sensoji Temple, and the Tokyo Skytree.
At night, explore the streets of Shinjuku or head to the Shibuya district to check out the bustling nightlife. For a more unique experience, explore one of Tokyo’s many quirky cafes and restaurants.
Whether you’re looking for entertainment, culture, or an exciting night out, Tokyo has something for everyone.
2) Kyoto
One of the best places to visit in Japan is Kyoto. This ancient city offers a wealth of cultural attractions and historic sites, such as the Nijo Castle, Kinkaku-ji Temple, and the Fushimi Inari-Taisha Shrine.
Kyoto is also home to dozens of traditional shrines and temples, as well as traditional ryokans and geishas. Visitors can take in beautiful gardens and imperial palaces, visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, or explore the city’s charming streets.
Other popular attractions include the Golden Pavilion and Gion, which is known for its vibrant nightlife.
3) Osaka
One of the best places to visit in Japan is Osaka. This vibrant city is full of history and culture, as well as plenty of entertainment.
Explore the many temples and shrines that are located around the city and take in the unique atmosphere of Osaka’s bustling streets. Tour the beautiful Osaka Castle, or visit Universal Studios Japan for an exciting day of rides and attractions.
After a long day, enjoy some of the delicious local cuisine, like Takoyaki and Okonomiyaki, or explore the downtown shopping district of Dōtonbori.
Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Osaka has something for everyone.
4) Sapporo
One of the best places to visit in Japan is Sapporo, the fifth largest city in the country.
Located on the northern island of Hokkaido, it’s known for its natural beauty and as a gateway to the ski slopes of Mount Teine and Sapporo Teine. It’s also home to the Sapporo Snow Festival, one of Japan’s largest winter festivals.
The city itself is full of attractions such as the Sapporo Beer Museum, Odori Park, and the beautiful Clock Tower. Other attractions include the Sapporo TV Tower, a picturesque observation tower overlooking the city, and the Hokkaido Shrine, which dates back to the 1800s.
Sapporo is an ideal destination for those looking for both natural beauty and cultural experiences in Japan.
5) Yokohama
One of the best places to visit in Japan is Yokohama. This vibrant port city boasts stunning views, spectacular attractions, and plenty of activities for all ages.
In Yokohama, you can visit the famous Red Brick Warehouse, explore Chinatown, take a stroll along the bay area, and enjoy the many shopping and entertainment districts.
The city is also known for its unique food, ranging from traditional Japanese cuisine to modern fusion dishes.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic night out or a fun day with friends, Yokohama has something for everyone. Don’t miss out on this dynamic city – plan your trip to Yokohama today!
6) Hakone
Hakone is one of the best places to visit in Japan and is located near Mount Fuji.
This beautiful region is a popular destination for those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, offering spectacular views of nature and an array of outdoor activities.
Visitors can experience the traditional onsen hot springs, take a cruise along Lake Ashi, explore the winding streets of Hakone’s mountain town, or relax in the lush natural surroundings.
The Hakone Open-Air Museum is also a must-see, featuring sculptures from artists around the world. Hakone is the perfect place to get away from it all and enjoy some of Japan’s best nature scenes.
7) Nagoya
Nagoya is one of the best places to visit in Japan. This beautiful city is known for its stunning castles and historic sites.
The Nagoya Castle is a must-see attraction, with its grand exterior, majestic stone walls, and elegant sculptures. Visitors can also explore the Atsuta Shrine and enjoy its traditional architecture.
Nagoya also offers many unique shopping and dining experiences, as well as amusement parks, museums, and art galleries.
In addition to its attractions, Nagoya also has a vibrant nightlife with plenty of restaurants, bars, and clubs. Whether you’re looking for a place to relax or explore the city’s culture, Nagoya has something for everyone.
8) Kamakura
Kamakura is one of the best places to visit in Japan, particularly for its historical sites and shrines.
This city is located less than an hour south of Tokyo, but it still feels like a world away. It’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of Tokyo and explore the traditional side of Japan.
In Kamakura, you’ll find iconic structures like the Great Buddha of Kamakura, an outdoor bronze statue of Amida Buddha that has become a symbol of the city.
Other important sites include Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, a Shinto shrine, as well as Hase-dera, another famous temple known for its large wooden statues.
While in Kamakura, make sure to also explore some of its beaches, gardens, and other attractions. It’s a great destination to get a taste of both traditional and modern Japan!
9) Nara
Nara is one of the best places to visit in Japan, known for its many World Heritage sites.
This ancient capital city is home to some of the oldest temples and shrines in the country, making it a must-visit destination for those interested in Japanese history and culture.
The city is most famous for its numerous deer who roam the streets and are considered sacred by locals. Visitors can buy special crackers to feed the deer or get even closer by taking a walking tour of Nara Park.
The park contains multiple historic shrines and temples, including the Todaiji Temple, which is home to the world’s largest bronze statue of Buddha.
Nara also has plenty of museums and galleries to explore, as well as other attractions such as Kasuga Taisha, one of Japan’s oldest Shinto shrines.
Nara is a great place to learn more about Japan’s fascinating history and culture while seeing some of its best places to visit.
10) Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji is one of the best places to visit in Japan. This majestic mountain rises to an impressive height of 3,776 meters, making it the highest mountain in the country.
Located on the island of Honshu, Mount Fuji is a popular destination for both tourists and locals. Its symmetrical cone shape and snow-capped peak can be seen from miles away and it provides an iconic backdrop to many photos taken in Japan.
Climbing Mount Fuji is also a popular activity, with the best time to do so being during the official climbing season which runs from July to mid-September.
For those who don’t wish to climb, there are several viewing spots nearby that allow visitors to admire the beauty of Mount Fuji from a distance.
11) Nikko
Located in the mountains of Tochigi Prefecture, Nikko is one of the best places to visit in Japan.
Home to some of the nation’s most beautiful and historically significant shrines and temples, Nikko is a must-see for any traveler. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan and draws millions of visitors each year.
The city is filled with ancient and sacred architecture, from the breathtaking Toshogu Shrine to the dramatic Futarasan Shrine and the Rinnoji Temple.
Here, visitors can explore beautiful gardens and stunning temples that are perfect for meditation and reflection.
Additionally, Nikko is home to hot springs and stunning natural wonders such as Lake Chuzenji, making it a great destination for those looking for a relaxing getaway.
12) Hiroshima
One of the best places to visit in Japan is the city of Hiroshima. It has many attractions that bring tourists from all over the world.
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is a must-see for anyone interested in learning about the history and tragedy of the atomic bomb.
The Genbaku Dome, which was one of the only buildings left standing after the bombing, is a powerful reminder of the destruction that war can cause.
The Hiroshima Castle, located in the middle of the city, offers stunning views of the cityscape and provides a great way to relax after a long day of sightseeing.
Hiroshima is also home to several temples and shrines, such as the Itsukushima Shrine, making it an ideal destination for those who wish to explore Japanese culture.
13) Takayama
Takayama is one of the best places to visit in Japan. It’s a mountain city located in the mountainous region of Gifu, located in central Japan.
The city is known for its well-preserved Edo-era atmosphere, charming streets lined with traditional buildings and beautiful views of the nearby Japanese Alps.
Takayama is most popularly known for its historic old town and morning markets that are filled with fresh local produce, handmade crafts, and traditional souvenirs.
There are a variety of interesting temples and shrines to explore, and some of the best hikes can be taken around the area.
The Takayama Festival is one of the highlights of the year and features two days of colorful parades. Tourists can also enjoy a visit to the sake breweries and taste the delicious local rice wine.
14) Kyushu
Located in the southwestern part of Japan, Kyushu is one of the best places to visit in Japan.
Known for its hot springs, nature, history, and culture, it’s a great place to explore and discover Japan’s hidden gems. Highlights include the ancient city of Nagasaki and the beautiful city of Fukuoka.
Nature lovers can explore the sacred cedar forests of Yakushima Island or marvel at the towering mountains of Kirishima National Park.
For a unique experience, visit the Aso Caldera and experience the beauty of an active volcano. With so many things to see and do, Kyushu is sure to give you a unique and unforgettable experience.
15) Okinawa
Okinawa is one of the best places to visit in Japan. It is an archipelago of over 150 islands located in the East China Sea, making it a great getaway for beach lovers.
Okinawa offers a unique experience for tourists, with its subtropical climate, beautiful beaches, and crystal-clear waters, it is easy to see why people keep coming back.
The islands are home to many historic sites, such as Shuri Castle, which was once the home of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Other popular attractions include Churaumi Aquarium, Okinawa World, and Himeyuri Peace Memorial Museum.
There is also plenty of shopping, dining, and nightlife available, making Okinawa an ideal vacation spot.
Best Cultural Experiences to Have in Japan
When looking for the best places to visit in Japan, it’s important to remember that it is a culturally rich and diverse country. There are many ways to experience the culture of Japan from a variety of perspectives. Here are some of the best cultural experiences you can have while visiting Japan:
- Attend a Traditional Tea Ceremony – Tea ceremonies are an important part of Japanese culture and attending one is an amazing way to learn about the culture. The tea ceremony involves preparing and serving green tea to guests, as well as expressing gratitude and appreciation.
- Try Out a Traditional Japanese Craft – Japan is known for its traditional crafts such as woodwork, pottery, textiles, and origami. Visiting craft shops and galleries or taking a class will give you an up-close look at the culture and history behind each craft.
- Visit a Festival – Festivals are an important part of Japanese culture and there are plenty to choose from throughout the year. Whether it’s a local festival or a larger one like the famous Gion Matsuri in Kyoto, there’s no better way to experience Japanese culture than at one of these vibrant events.
- Explore Local Cuisine – Japanese cuisine is unique and there’s a lot more to it than sushi and ramen. Exploring local eateries is a great way to try out new dishes and get an understanding of the regional flavors of Japan.
- Stay in a Ryokan – Ryokans are traditional Japanese inns that provide a truly immersive cultural experience. They usually offer traditional meals, tatami mats to sleep on, and traditional bathhouses. Staying in a ryokan can be an unforgettable experience.
By taking the time to experience some of Japan’s unique cultural offerings, you’ll be able to gain an even deeper understanding of this amazing country and its people.
