17 Best Places to Visit in Japan
Japan is a mosaic of contrasts, a place where the serene beauty of ancient traditions seamlessly weaves into the vibrant tapestry of modern life. As a country that’s consistently climbing the ranks as a premier global travel hotspot, it lures adventurers with its culinary delights, from the freshest sushi to comforting bowls of ramen. Beyond the neon glow of urban landscapes and whimsical pop culture, Japan’s transportation network is a marvel of efficiency, making journeys across the archipelago’s picturesque islands not just possible but also a pleasure.
Against the backdrop of snow-tipped mountains and tropical beaches, the cultural richness of Japan unfolds. Whether it’s the profound spirituality of Hokkaido’s Ainu people or the tropical flair of Okinawa’s Ryukyu heritage, every corner of this island nation offers a new story. Your journey might take you on a contemplative temple pilgrimage in Shikoku, a peaceful stroll through Hiroshima’s avenues, or a sensory overload amid Tokyo’s bustling districts. Each step is a chapter in a journey that promises the excitement of discovery and the solace of timeless tranquility.
1. Kinosaki Onsen
As you meander through the historical Kinosaki Onsen, nestled just a whisper away from the Japan Sea, you’re engulfed in centuries-old tradition. Born in the 8th century, this onsen town’s charm cascades from its willow-fringed canal, leading your gaze to the gentle flow of the Maruyama River.
Bathing Houses: Indulge in Wellness
- Sotoyu Baths: Seven public onsen beckon with their reputedly restorative waters.
- Architecture: Marvel at the meticulously crafted interiors as you soak in rejuvenation.
Ryokan Stay: Slice of Tradition
- Embrace the heartbeat of the onsen experience by staying in a ryokan, where hospitality wraps you in warmth.
Culinary and Craft Delights
- Local Eats: Partake in the bounty of the sea, fresh and delectable.
- Artisanal Crafts: Wander through the alleys and find shops brimming with local artisanship.
In Kinosaki, each step you take is a dance with history, while every bathhouse visit immerses you in the continuous narrative of this thermal wonderland. Here, the convergence of heritage and tranquility crafts an escape that indulges all your senses.
2. Naoshima
Cradled by the Seto Inland Sea and sandwiched between the larger Honshu and the serene Shikoku, Naoshima emerges as a canvas where modern art and nature paint a harmonious existence. Touted as an art aficionado’s paradise, the once quiet fishing enclave now celebrates a renaissance of culture and creativity.
Essential Museums and Galleries:
- Chichu Art Museum: Engage with art in a building that blurs the boundary between nature and architecture.
- Benesse House Museum: Where overnight stays are entwined with artistic immersion.
Discover Naoshima’s marvels as you encounter outdoor sculptures that punctuate the island’s landscapes, inviting contemplation. Striking works of art organically blend into the island’s topography, creating a compelling open-air gallery.
While Naoshima’s township may offer a modest slice of life, the visual feast dotted across the island compensates with a tapestry of aesthetic delight. Your journey here isn’t just about viewing art; it’s an invitation to live within it. Nearby isles, influenced by Naoshima’s cultural pivot, beckon with their own artistic statements, echoing a symphony of innovation across the shining Seto waters.
3. Shirakawa-go and Gokayama
Nestled in the heart of Japan’s central Honshu, you’ll find Shirakawa-go and Gokayama, villages celebrated for their picturesque landscapes and iconic thatched-roof farmhouses. As you amble through these hamlets, the distinctive gassho-zukuri buildings stand as testaments to the harmony of human craftsmanship with nature’s splendor—a peaceful tableau set against the patchwork of fertile fields and the backdrop of rugged mountains.
Visit during busy periods like Golden Week or when cherry blossoms unfurl their hues, and the vibrancy of these locales truly blooms. The throngs of visitors only underscore the allure of these spots. At the Jim Homura Art Museum, immerse yourself in creative expressions of local culture, or marvel at the meticulous handiwork of regional artisanal crafts.
For an authentic experience, spend a night at a traditional Ryokan inn, a haven where the rustic charm of old-world Japan envelops you. Surrounded by nature’s grandeur, hiking trails beckon the adventurous, offering pathways to secluded waterfalls and lookouts with expansive vistas. In Shirakawa-go and Gokayama, the essence of Japan unfolds—a symphony of historic elegance and the serenity of the pastoral idyll.
4. Osaka
Nestled within one of the largest conurbations globally, your encounter with Osaka unfolds along the picturesque shores of Osaka Bay. Enveloped by an array of bustling satellite cities, this metropolis is Japan’s third-largest—a beacon of financial and economic significance.
The endless urban sprawl might appear stark, yet Osaka reigns supreme as the epicurean capital of Japan. The city’s vibrant heart pulsates through Dotonbori, where neon lights guide your palate to an array of culinary delights. Night owls and gourmands alike flock here, where laughter and libations flow as freely as the canals.
For retail therapy, dive into Shinsaibashi, a covered emporium of desires with department stores and trendy boutiques vying for your attention. Here, the retail rhythm is relentless, a continuous blend of traditional wares and cutting-edge fashion.
Osaka’s soul isn’t confined to its modern maze. The city’s retelling of history lives at the Osaka Castle—a reconstructed marvel, cradled by nature’s embrace amidst the urban beat. Stand atop the lofty Umeda Sky Building or gaze up at the Tsutenkaku Tower; these structures stand as proud sentinels of the city’s skyline.
Seek serenity at Osaka’s spiritual legacy with visits to the Sumiyoshi Shrine and Shitennoji Temple, whispers of ancient heritage within the dynamic cityscape. As Japan’s history intertwines with contemporary zest, Osaka offers you a tale not just of two cities, but of many layers, waiting to be unraveled.
See Related: 15 Best Cities to Visit in Japan
5. Kiso Valley
Nestled within Nagano Prefecture’s embrace, Kiso Valley invites you to lush forests and the allure of historical narrative. As you walk the storied paths once trodden by Edo-period travelers, you’ll find yourself in a living museum under the watchful gaze of the Japanese Alps.
History and Hiking:
- Nakasendo Way: A lifeline during the Edo era, connecting Kyoto and Tokyo
- Post Towns: Explore the well-kept Magome and Tsumago; authentic Edo ambiance remains
- Lodging: Experience traditional hospitality in a cozy ryokan
Natural Beauty:
- Kiso River: Follow the valley’s lifeline, cradled by dense woodlands
- Scenic Trails: Traverse from town to town, surrounded by serene mountain vistas
Cultural Gems:
- Narai: Yet another gem, this post-town enchants with its preserved beauty
- Ryokans: Where old-world charm meets warm, inviting stays
As you traverse the valley, let the harmonious blend of history and nature envelop you, infusing your journey with the essence of Japan as time-honored as the route itself.
6. Koya-san
Nestled among eight peaks in Wakayama Prefecture, your encounter with Koya-san will bring you face-to-face with the heart of Shingon Buddhism. This mountaintop sanctuary, established in the 9th century, thrives with over 120 temples that offer a serene glimpse into spiritual Japan.
- Kongobu-ji Temple: Discover the main temple and its ancient halls alongside Japan’s largest rock garden, encapsulating centuries of meditative history.
- Okunoin Cemetery: Traverse Japan’s largest cemetery, enveloped in a mystical atmosphere, leading to Kobo Daishi’s mausoleum.
A stone’s throw from Osaka, Koya-san is ideally experienced through an overnight stay. Participating in temple lodgings allows for an immersive taste of monastic life — a tranquil retreat from the modern bustle.
As you wander through timeless pagodas and embrace the mountain’s natural splendor, each step of your hike is accompanied by whispers of history and the silent chants of monks. Here, the union of nature and nurture crafts an unforgettable journey into Japan’s sacred heart.
See Related: Best Places to Visit in Japan for First Timers: Your Essential Guide
7. Ishigaki
Ishigaki serves as the gateway to the illustrious Yaeyama archipelago, a beacon for beach aficionados. Here, you’ll discover some of the finest coastal stretches Japan has to offer. Family-friendly Fusaki and Maezato beaches pamper visitors with safety nets for carefree swims.
Forgoing classic shrines and temples, Ishigaki lies a significant leap away from Tokyo, 2,000 kilometers to be precise, offering an animated nightlife that buzzes with vivacity post-sunset. After indulging in Ishigaki’s daytime beach delights or scaling Mount Nosoko, energize your evenings with the island’s exuberant nocturnal scene.
8. Miyajima
Venture to the northwestern waters of Hiroshima Bay and embrace the quaint allure of Miyajima, an enclave famed for its inclusion in Japan’s most lauded scenic views. Officially christened Itsukushima, yet fondly referred to by its moniker ‘Shrine Island’, this locale resonates with spiritual significance.
Beneath the verdant veil of Mount Misen, you may trek through serene pathways ribboned around Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines, each steeped in tradition. Linger by the impressive five-story pagoda, where the blend of spiritual ambience and natural splendor is palpable.
- Sights to See:
- Itsukushima Shrine’s Torii Gate: A marvel that seems to float upon the sea, especially during high tide.
- Mount Misen: Sacred trails leading to age-old temples, wrapped in a tapestry of forestry.
In these sacred hills roam gentle deer, nonchalant in their interaction with visitors, a testament to the tranquility of Miyajima. Venture here to capture not just images with your camera but also experiences that nestle quietly into your travel memories.
9. Kanazawa
- Kenroku-en Garden: A jewel of landscape design, Kenroku-en is lauded as one of Japan’s top three gardens. Stroll by the serene ponds and admire the meticulously manicured trees.
- Kanazawa Castle: Discover the stately presence of the Kanazawa Castle, a gateway to the city’s past, standing proudly in the heart of Kanazawa.
- Geisha and Samurai Districts: Wander through the Higashi Chaya district, where the delicate sound of shamisen strings may tease your ears, and the Nagamachi area, where the spirit of the samurai still whispers in the charming alleys.
- Omicho Market: Your senses are in for a treat—with an abundance of fresh seafood, the lively Omicho Market offers a taste of the region’s culinary wealth.
As you delve into Kanazawa, you’ll uncover a city that harmoniously weaves its historic tapestry with a vibrant modern thread. Your journey here isn’t just a visit—it’s an intimate dialogue with Japan’s soul.
Read Also: Top Attractions & Things to Do in Japan
10. Hiroshima
Hiroshima unfolds as a resilient testament to peace and renewal, its past etched into the global memory since the dawn of the atomic age on August 6, 1945. Today, your exploration of Hiroshima reveals a city reborn, bustling and vibrant amidst the trails of history.
As you tread the paths of Hiroshima, the stark transformation from destruction to development will astound you. In a city once in ruins, every rebuilt structure and thrumming street corner doubles as an echo of its remarkable recovery.
Certainly, the heart of Hiroshima’s phoenix-like story is its Peace Memorial Park. This expanse is more than a collection of monuments; it’s a palpable whisper of hope, quiet yet enduring. The centerpieces of your pilgrimage here are undoubtedly the relics and narratives housed within the Peace Memorial Museum. They silently narrate tales of resilience you’ll carry with you long after leaving.
A short ferry ride will bring you to the most iconic view of the enthralling Torii at Miyajima Island. Looming over the waters at high tide, this ‘floating’ gate is a stupendous sight, harmonizing spiritual tradition with the natural ebb and flow of the sea. Embark on this journey, and Hiroshima reveals itself not just as a city, but as a symbol of enduring peace and human spirit.
11. Kamakura
Nestled amidst lush hills and the expansive Sagami Bay, Kamakura awaits just an hour’s journey south from Tokyo’s heartbeat. This once-political epicenter of Japan is now a serene haven, boasting a vast array of historic landmarks and spiritually significant sites.
At the heart of the city’s storied past stands the Great Buddha of Kamakura, a 13.35-meter-high bronze colossus gazing serenely upon visitors from its outdoor temple setting. A short stroll away, the grandiose Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine beckons, offering solace and a glimpse into the city’s spiritual fabric.
Kencho-ji and Engaku-ji, both hushed Zen temples, present tranquil gardens perfect for contemplative moments, while the vibrant city center thrives with delectable eateries and boutique shops. Your outdoor inclinations can be met with leisurely hikes through Kamakura’s natural wonders or by embracing the coastal charm with a day of sunbathing, swimming, or riding the surf at inviting beaches. Here, culture and nature converse in a timeless symphony, against a backdrop of historical reverence.
12. Nikko
Amid rugged mountain landscapes and dense cedar forests, your next stop beckons—Nikko, the gateway to the revered Nikko National Park. Here, the natural splendor intertwines with sacred sites in Tochigi Prefecture’s tranquil embrace. Your journey isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it’s a pilgrimage to Japan’s storied past.
Within the heart of this serene haven stands the Tosho-gu Shrine, an elaborate testament to the legacy of the Tokugawa Shoguns. Its opulent designs and latticework—a tableau of Edo artistry—are enveloped by the whispers of ancient cedars. Explore the myriad shrines and pagodas; each corner tells a different tale.
- Mausoleums: Resting places of Tokugawa Ieyasu and his grandson.
- Shinkyo Bridge: A historic and iconic vermilion-lacquered bridge.
- Kegon Falls: Nature’s own masterpiece, cascading with a hypnotic rhythm.
Beyond these man-made marvels, Mother Nature’s handiwork is evident in the serene lakes and waterfalls dotting the landscape, their waters clear as crystal. Venture through these scenic vistas to find rejuvenation in hot springs that seem to bubble with the earth’s lifeblood. And remember, the soul of Japan is just a two-hour train ride from the vibrant heart of Tokyo. Here in Nikko, the historical, cultural, and scenic threads of Japan weave together into an unforgettable tapestry.
See Related: Largest Islands in the World to Visit
13. Takayama
A jewel in the heart of the Japanese Alps, Takayama seduces with its rustic charm and mysterious allure. Amidst the central mountains of Honshu, this small city captivates with a townscape frozen in time, echoing the Edo era.
- Historic Quarter: Stroll cobbled streets lined with sake breweries and quaint boutiques, with the past echoing in every wooden beam and tiled roof.
- Morning Markets: Near the calming riverscape, the morning bazaars bustle—with locals bartering over fresh produce and artisanal crafts.
- Cultural Heritage: Visit the Hida Folk Village for a step back in time among thatched farmhouses, and observe craftsmen breathe life into age-old crafts.
- Festive Splendor: Plan your visit during Sanno Matsuri or Yahata Matsuri to witness Takayama transform under a spectacle of floats and lanterns—a dance of tradition and community spirit.
Set apart by its unique culture, Takayama’s festivals and daily life aren’t just a display; they are a testament to a city that cherishes its heritage while inviting you in warmly. The experience here is not simply seen or heard—it is felt. Embrace the spirit of Takayama, and you’ll uncover the rhythms of a history that continues to pulse through its streets.
14. Hakone
Attractions of Hakone:
- Lake Ashi: Sail on pirate-themed vessels and admire Mount Fuji from the perfect vantage point of the serene Lake Ashi.
- Onsen Experience: Submerge in a soothing bathhouse and unwind in the traditional ryokans dotted throughout the region.
Cultural Highlights:
- Art Museums: Feast your eyes on eclectic art collections nestled amidst the lush landscape.
- Craft Shops: Discover unique handicrafts in quaint boutiques, a true testament to Hakone’s artisanal heritage.
Activities:
- Hiking Trails: Traverse Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park’s peaceful paths, are a haven for solitude-seekers.
Nested within a picturesque valley, your excursion to Hakone offers a cultured embrace with nature’s masterpiece. Under the watchful gaze of the resplendent Mount Fuji, the town provides an idyllic backdrop for both adventure and relaxation. Your journey becomes a canvas, painted with the stroke of cultural exploration and the quiet quest for rejuvenation. As you wander, let the mountainous embrace guide you to reflections of Japan’s heart, both in its steamy onsen waters and along the trails less traveled.
15. Nara’s Exquisite Heritage
Venture to Nara, where the echoes of ancient footsteps resonate through the halls of history. Your journey takes you less than an hour from Kyoto to the verdant embrace of Nara Park, a tranquil refuge where time-honored pagodas rise and tame deer roam freely, mingling with those who wander along the winding paths. Within this oasis lies the grandeur of Kofuku-ji, with its towering pagodas pointing elegantly towards the heavens.
Amidst the stone lanterns illuminating the serene pathways, you will encounter the spiritual heart of the city, the celebrated Todai-ji Temple. Its architectural magnificence shelters the colossal Great Buddha, inspiring awe in all who gaze upon it.
Beyond the natural wonders, Nara is a treasure trove of cultural fascination, boasting an array of historical edifices standing proudly against the test of time. Engage with the city’s past through its exquisite museums, each a gateway to understanding and appreciation.
Discover Naramachi, the old merchants’ district, a charming network of alleys where the whispers of yesteryear mingle with the gentle bustle of today. In Nara, every step through its cultured avenues is a step through Japan’s storied legacy.
16. Kyoto
Immerse yourself in ancient allure and modern marvels in Kyoto, once the beating heart of Japan for over a millennium. As you meander through its serene streets, you’ll appreciate how the city has meticulously preserved its storied past. Unlike many other Japanese urban centers, Kyoto escaped the severe bombardments of World War II, allowing its historic fabric to remain largely intact.
Central to Kyoto’s cultural tapestry are its over 1,000 Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines. Among these, the Golden Pavilion stands out, shimmering with opulence and heritage, a beacon for your lens and a testament to artistry. Besides its spiritual monuments, the city prizes the Nijo Castle, an opulent symbol of the Tokugawa Shogunate’s power.
Step into Higashiyama, where the past echoes in every stone-paved alley, and the Gion district, which whispers tales of geisha elegance. Yet Kyoto’s charm doesn’t dwell solely in history. Home to an impressive aquarium and the quirky Ninja Training Dojo, Kyoto offers encounters that range from serene to thrilling. Here, the ancient and the avant-garde don’t just meet; they dance a timeless ballet, captivating all who are fortunate to see it.
17. Tokyo
When you journey through Tokyo, you’ll immerse yourself in a pulsating tapestry woven with the threads of timeless tradition and futuristic innovation. Entwined within its vast urban sprawl lies a melodic symphony of contrasts that resonates in every corner.
Immerse in Serenity and Tradition:
- Explore Meiji Shrine, a verdant oasis honoring past emperors, and witness ancient rites that perpetuate the city’s spiritual heritage.
- Stroll through Sensoji Temple’s weathered halls, where incense clouds drift about, connecting you to a Tokyo far removed from the neon buzz.
Embrace Contemporary Spectacles:
- Stand at Shibuya’s iconic scramble crossing, an amphitheater to the organized chaos of pedestrian waves.
- Journey into Harajuku, a kaleidoscope of fashion where avant-garde styles are displayed in a vibrant street show.
Culinary Adventures:
- Begin your day uniquely at the world-renowned Tsukiji Fish Market; indulge in sushi whose freshness eclipses all prior experiences, an unforeseen breakfast delight.
- For a more regal taste, the Imperial Palace grounds offer not just imperial history but also picturesque picnicking spots, ideal for enjoying local delicacies.
Viewpoints and Icons:
- Ascend to the panoramic decks of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, gazing out across a seemingly infinite cityscape.
- Don’t miss the crimson and white lattice structure of Tokyo Tower, a beacon of both communication and tourism potency.
Navigating Tokyo’s labyrinthine metro system becomes an adventure of its own, an efficient network that unfurls a city of a million stories just waiting for you to discover them. If you’re lured by the siren call of nature, a day trip to the majestic Mount Fuji is just a train ride away. This city is not just a destination but a vibrant stage where you’re both audience and actor in an unfolding story of epic proportions.
Related Resources: