24 Best Places to Visit in Japan & Top Things to Do

Otto I. Eovaldi

Japan is one of the greatest holiday locations on the planet. There are hundreds of things to see all across the nation, and you could spend a lifetime going through them all. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of Japan’s finest places to visit, so you can make your trip accordingly!

This list covers areas that you’re probably well acquainted with, like Tokyo and Kyoto, as well as some of the more off-the-beaten-path destinations that are definitely worth your time.

I was absolutely blown away by the culture, food, history, natural beauty, and people when I first visited Japan.

I remember flying back to the states already wondering when I could go back to explore more of this beautiful country.

What to Know About Visiting Japan

10 Best Places to Visit In Japan – Travel Guide [4K UHD]

Japan is a country that is steeped in tradition and culture. From its ancient temples to its modern skyscrapers, Japan is a fascinating place to visit. There are many things to see and do in this fascinating country, so let’s take a look at some of the highlights.

The first thing that comes to mind when most people think of Japan is its amazing temples and shrines.

These structures date back centuries and offer a glimpse into Japan’s rich history. Some of the most famous temples include Kyoto’s Kiyomizu-dera and Tokyo’s Senso-ji Temple.

These temples are not only beautiful, but they are also home to some of the most important cultural ceremonies and festivals in Japan.

Another iconic aspect of Japanese culture is its cuisine. If you’re a fan of sushi, then you’re in for a real treat when you visit Japan.

The country is home to some of the best sushi restaurants in the world, and you can find everything from cheap eats to high-end establishments. There are also plenty of other types of food to try in Japan, so be sure to sample as much as you can.

Japan is also a great place for shopping. Tokyo is home to some of the biggest and best shopping malls in the world, and there are plenty of smaller boutiques located throughout the country.

If you’re looking for souvenirs or unique gifts to take back home with you, then Japan is definitely the place to shop.

Of course, no trip to Japan is complete without a visit to one of its famous cities. Tokyo and Kyoto are both must-see destinations, and there’s plenty to see and do in both places. From temples and shrines to shopping and nightlife, these cities have it all.

Best time to visit Japan

The best time to visit Japan is during the spring and summer months. The weather is mild and there is very little rain, making it the perfect time to explore all that Japan has to offer.

Japan is a great place to visit any time of year, but the late autumn months can offer a unique experience that cannot be found at other times of the year and also at a more affordable price.

The leaves are changing color and the weather is cool and crisp, making it the perfect time to explore the country’s many autumn attractions.

Best Places to Visit in Japan & Things to Do

Let’s get into the best places to visit in Japan as well as other great things to see and do.

1. Sapporo 

Tower in Sapporo, Japan

Sapporo is a major city on Japan’s northernmost island, and it’s actually closer to Russia than many nations you might consider “nearby to Japan,” such as Korea or China.

Sapporo’s cultural background is distinct from the rest of Japan, owing to its unique history. Every winter, Sapporo receives more snow than any other Asian city, making it a winter wonderland.

The annual Sapporo Snow Festival in January attracts visitors from all over the world with its spectacular snow structures and sculptures.

Some of the older buildings in Sapporo look more similar to European architecture than Japanese, and we honestly recommend spending time just learning more about the history behind some of these buildings.

In terms of food, Sapporo might just be the global capital of Ramen.

Ramen is, by far, the most widely consumed foodstuff in the city, and you can get practically any type of ramen that you can think of in this city, aside from a few other unique foods and drinks that you won’t be able to find anywhere else in Japan.

Sapporo’s beer is also considered the best in the country, and the city is home to Japan’s oldest brewer Sapporo Breweries – so as you would expect, there are lots of bars and live entertainment venues in every corner of the city. 

But perhaps the best thing about Sapporo is the parks and squares neatly lined up in a row right at the center of the city that is so truly iconic during cherry blossom season.

There, you’ll find places to relax, eat, drink, chill with your friends, and enjoy a few performances. 

2. Osaka 

People Walking in a Store-Filled Street in Osaka 

Osaka is Japan’s second-largest urban area and the third-largest city overall.

Despite its older brother, Tokyo, it is nevertheless a destination that you cannot overlook while visiting Japan. Osaka is located in the heart of Japan, making it an excellent location to begin your Japanese adventure.

Osaka has been one of Japan’s most significant cities throughout much of history, serving as the country’s capital.

As a result, several of Osaka’s notable sites are among the best things to see in the city. The Osaka Castle is Osaka’s major attraction. The enormous Osaka Castle was erected in 1583 and takes up a huge amount of space. 

But aside from the historic areas, Osaka is still a great city to visit. It’s, by far, the best city in Japan to shop for souvenirs.

You’ll get much better deals on traditional Japanese stuff in Osaka than you would in Tokyo.

And it’s pretty tough to get bored here with the seemingly unlimited bars, clubs, and concert venues located throughout the city.

On top of that, the food is absolutely incredible, and since Osaka receives fewer international tourists than Tokyo, the cuisine tends to be more “authentic” than Tokyo as well.

3. Tokyo 

Vehicles Passing on a Spacious Road and Towering Buildings

You probably already knew this was on the list, but a trip to Japan without seeing Tokyo is like eating lobster with no butter. Some would even go so far as to claim that Tokyo feels like an independent country in its own right.

The sheer bulk of this metropolis is unimaginable, and I doubt you’ll dispute that there’s plenty to do in Tokyo.

Tokyo is one of the world’s entertainment hotspots. There’s usually some sort of performance, event, or festival going on somewhere in the city at any given moment.

You may think of Tokyo as a contemporary metropolis, but there’s still a lot of history that remains.

You may begin your journey in the historical area of Yanesen, a lovely and relaxing suburb named after the Yanaka, Nezu, and Sendagi districts it encompasses.

If you want to shop and party on the side, check out Harajuku, which is known as the epicenter of Japanese fashion and pop culture.

If you just wanna relax and escape the hustle and bustle, you can visit the city’s numerous parks, shrines, temples, and museums that are liberally scattered across town. 

In a nutshell, Tokyo has it all. It’s one of the most interesting cities in the world to visit.

Furthermore, despite its vastness, it is exceptionally clean, well-organized, and safe in nearly every nook and cranny – as is almost all of traditional Japan.

4. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Lit Monument in Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

The Memorial Cenotaph at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is a somber tribute to the victims of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima.

The cenotaph is a simple stone monument with an inscription that reads: “Let all the souls here rest in peace, for we shall not repeat the evil.”

The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum located in the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, was founded in 1955 by the city of Hiroshima.

It commemorates the victims of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima on August 6, 1945. The museum presents the history of Hiroshima before and after the bombing.

The park and museum are located in the center of Hiroshima city. The easiest way to get there is by taking the tram to Genbaku Dome-mae Station.

There are a number of great places to stay in Hiroshima. Some of the best include the following:

  • Hiroshima Royal Park Hotel – This hotel is located right next to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, and it offers wonderful views of the park. The hotel is also just a short walk from the Hiroshima Train Station, making it a great choice for travelers.
  • Hotel Granvia Hiroshima – This hotel is located in the heart of downtown Hiroshima, and it offers easy access to all of the city’s attractions. The hotel features rooms with beautiful views of the city, and it offers a number of excellent amenities and services.
  • Sheraton Hiroshima Hotel – This hotel is located on top of Mount Futabayama, and it offers stunning views of the city and the bay. The hotel is just a short drive from the center of Hiroshima, and it features a number of excellent amenities and services.

5. Ishigaki 

White Sand Beach in Ishigaki 

 If you wanted to go somewhere that’s a bit different from the rest of Japan, then Okinawa is definitely one of the best places to visit in Japan for you.

Ishigaki is an island in Japan’s Okinawa Prefecture. It is part of the Okinawa Prefecture, which is located in the south and west of Japan. The most frequent languages spoken here are extremely distinct from Japanese.

The island of Ishigaki, which is part of Okinawa Prefecture, is sometimes known as the Hawaii of Japan since to its beautiful turquoise seas and white sand beaches, which are likely to have earned it TripAdvisor’s 2018 title of the world’s greatest travel destination.

You’ll spend most of your time on Ishigaki island exploring its many beaches.

However, aside from the beaches, Ishigaki also has extraordinary cuisine, which is far and away from the most distinct food in Japan. Here, fresh seafood is second to none versus anywhere in the world.

The island of Ishigaki has several resorts, some of which are very beautiful.

However, its most appealing aspect is how cost-effective it is. While the Maldives, Hawaii, or any other sunny destinations similar to it are pricey, hotels on Ishigaki are surprisingly modest, especially when compared to Japan’s status as one of the world’s most expensive countries to live in.

6. Hakone

Temple Gate Facing the Ocean

Hakone is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan. It’s located just a few hours from Tokyo, and it’s easy to get to as a day trip from the big city.

Hakone is known for its hot springs, and there are plenty of other activities to enjoy in the area too. You can visit the boiling sulfur pits by ropeway, sail around Lake Ashi in pirate ships, or enjoy a mountain view from the cable car.

When visiting Hakone, there are plenty of places to stay. Here are some of the best places to stay in Hakone Japan:

  • The Prince Hotel: This hotel offers guests a panoramic view of Mount Fuji and is within walking distance of the Hakone-Yumoto Station.
  • The Hakone Ginyu: This ryokan offers traditional Japanese accommodations and is located close to the lakes and mountains of Hakone.
  • The Hotel Green Plaza: This hotel is close to the Odawara Station and offers guests easy access to all of the sights and attractions in Hakone.
  • The Fujiya Hotel: This historic hotel is located in the heart of Hakone and offers guests a variety of restaurants and spa treatments.
  • The Okuda: This modern hotel is located close to the Hakone-Yumoto Station and offers guests beautiful views of Mount Fuji.

Check out our YouTube video from this Hakone ryokan below.

Hakone Ryokan Tour: Our Luxury Villa With Private Onsen

See Related: Do Hotels Take Cash? Things to Know

7. Himeji Castle

Whiet Castle on the Top of a Hill

Himeji Castle is an ancient castle in Japan that is definitely worth a visit. It’s especially beautiful during the cherry blossom time of year when the trees are in bloom and the grounds are covered in a pink carpet.

To get to Himeji Castle, you can take a train from Osaka, Kyoto, or Hiroshima. The journey will take around an hour, and the castle is definitely worth a visit.

There are a few great places to stay near Himeji Castle, and the best one will depend on your budget and preferences.

All of these hotels are located within close proximity to Himeji Castle, so you can easily visit it during your stay.

8. Go Izakaya Hopping

Street Filled with Lanterns, Restaurants and Shops

An Izakaya is a type of Japanese bar that serves small, tapas-style dishes as well as drinks. They are often lively and informal places and are a great way to try lots of different dishes and connect with folks.

They are a popular way to grab a quick bite, and are extremely popular with “Salarymen”.

There are a number of izakayas that you can visit when in Japan. Some of the best ones include:

  • Jidaiya – This izakaya is located in Osaka and is known for its traditional atmosphere and delicious food.
  • Kichisen – This izakaya is located in Kyoto and is known for its fresh seafood and stunning decor.
  • Ishi – This izakaya is located in Fukuoka and is known for its delicious yakitori skewers.
  • Yumeya – This izakaya is located in Hiroshima and is known for its fresh seafood and amazing atmosphere.

Izakaya hopping is a great way to try lots of different dishes and drinks in Japan.

Each izakaya has its own unique atmosphere and menu, so you can experience a variety of different things by visiting just a few.

In addition, izakayas are often lively and informal places, so they are a great way to enjoy a more authentic Japanese experience.

9. Naoshima

Tow Woman Facing the Ocean

Naoshima is a small and lush-green island located in the Seto Inland Sea.

The island is home to various art museums, sculptures, and new architectural pieces that are integrated into the landscape. Naoshima makes for a great weekend getaway from Tokyo and is also a great place to camp in Japan.

Naoshima can be accessed by plane or ferry. The Naoshima Airport is located 27 kilometers from the island’s capital, and the closest ferry terminal is Miyanoura Port, which is 9 kilometers away.

There are a few places to stay near Naoshima. The closest accommodation is Miyanoura Port, which offers a few hotels and guesthouses. There are also a few hotels located on the island of Naoshima such as MY LODGE Naoshima.

10. Yakushima

Deer in Yakushima Island

Yakushima is a prefecture island that is known for its nature reserves and waterfalls.

This is one of the best places to visit in Japan because of its natural beauty. You can enjoy hikes through the forests, stroll along the beaches, and take in the sights and sounds of the waterfalls.

Getting to Yakushima is easiest by plane. There are airports in Kagoshima and Osaka, and both airports have flights that go to Yakushima. You can also get to the island via ferry from Kagoshima or Osaka.

There are a few different places to stay in Yakushima. If you are looking for a place to stay near the beaches, Miyanoura is the best place to stay. There are a number of hotels and inns in the area, and it is easy to get to the beaches from this location.

If you are looking for a place to stay in the forests, Anbo is a great option. There are a number of guesthouses and minshuku in the area, and it is close to some of the best hiking trails on the island.

11. Shinjuku, Tokyo 

People Crossing a Pedestrian

Yes, I’m aware that Tokyo has already been cited in the list, but Tokyo can be considered its own country, then Tokyo’s Shinjuku district is an entire world within this metropolis.

The bustling area of Tokyo is Shinjuku. Its never-ending shopping districts carry everything from top to bottom brands, ranging from luxury brands like Gucci to fast fashion companies like H&M.

In any one street in Shinjuku, you’ll almost certainly come into contact with a thousand individuals from all around the world.

Despite making up just 1% of Tokyo’s population, tourists outnumber residents in Shinjuku by a ratio of 3:1.

The simple reason for that is Shinjuku has so many things to do! Some of Japan’s best restaurants, retailers, concert venues, bars, and countless other unique attractions are located in Shinjuku, often less than a mile away from each other.

On top of that, if you’ve seen any movie set in Tokyo, it probably had a scene or two, (if not the entire movie), set in Shinjuku. The district is sort of what we all thought the “future” would look like in the 80s and 90s.

But not everything in Shinjuku is flashy or high-paced. In fact, the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is one of the quietest places in all of Tokyo, and it’s the perfect spot for you to just forget all your troubles and relax. 

Take a ride on a Bullet Train

The Japanese Bullet Train, or Shinkansen, is one of the most famous and efficient trains in the world. With a top speed of 320 kilometers per hour, it can get you from city to city quickly and comfortably.

Whether you’re taking a short trip or embarking on a longer journey, the Shinkansen is a great way to see Japan.

If you’re planning on doing a lot of traveling in Japan, a Japan Rail Pass may be a good investment.

JR Passes are valid for travel on all JR trains, including the Shinkansen, and can save you a lot of money if you’re visiting multiple cities. Be sure to do your research and figure out if a JR Pass is worth your trip.

12. Kyoto 

Woman Wearing Kimono and Surroudned with Traditional Japanese House

Kyoto is probably the most well-known Japanese city outside of Tokyo, and there’s a reason behind it – other than the fact that they share the same letters. This bustling city is totally worth visiting during your first trip or your tenth trip to Japan.

Kyoto is a city where you can experience the traditional side of Japan, as well as the modern. Kyoto is home to more than 1,000 Buddhist temples and 400 Shinto shrines, including 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Before exploring more modern sights like the Kyoto Aquarium, take some time to explore ancient wooden structures and visit traditional teahouses. 

Kyoto is one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations and a must-see for visitors from all around the world.

This city boasts numerous historical landmarks, including ancient temples and shrines, man-made lakes with gardens filled with cherry blossoms, Edo-Tokyo Museum, several museums in the Kyoto University area, and more.

This metropolis is a great place to spend a few days exploring, and with so much to see and do, you’ll never get bored.

Unlike many of Japan’s major cities, Kyoto was largely spared from the effects of World War II, which means it has more historic buildings than anywhere else in Japan.

There are over 1,600 historic Buddhist temples, monasteries, Geisha districts, and shrines, all featuring gorgeous traditional Japanese architecture.

Kyoto, which is the capital of Japan, has more UNESCO World Heritage Sites than any other city in the world.

Furthermore, there are a plethora of ancient gardens from hundreds or perhaps thousands of years ago that are all so well-preserved and maintained that you may journey into the past.

Kyoto is also home to the International Manga Museum, which is a museum dedicated entirely to manga that any cartoon lover will enjoy.

Overall, there simply can’t be a trip to Japan without visiting Kyoto at least once, although we recommend you spend at least a few weeks, if not a few months inside this amazing historic city. 

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13. Soak in an Onsen

Smoke Coming from a Hot Spring

An onsen is a hot springs pool either in a private or public setting. Japan is rich in lava and volcanic activity which is reflected in an onsen in every part of it.

Onsens were traditionally separated based on gender, which carries on to this day for the vast majority of onsens.

Similar sentos are indoor baths that are heated with normal heat. If you travel to Japan during winter a dip in the onsen is necessary.

A ryokan is a type of traditional inn which offers guests rooms with tatami flooring and futon bedding.

Most ryokans also include a public bathing area where guests can enjoy a hot spring bath. Many ryokans also serve meals in their guest rooms, which typically feature Japanese cuisines such as sushi, sashimi, and teppanyaki.

When you stay at a private ryokan with an onsen, you can expect a luxurious and relaxing experience.

Many of these ryokans are located in stunning locations, such as near rivers or in the mountains, and offer amazing views. The ryokans typically have large gardens where you can wander around, and many also have their own onsen baths.

Do note that if you have tattoos, bathing in an onsen or a sento might be off the cards – most Japanese public or shared bathing areas forbid tattoos.

14. Nagano

Skies Reflection on a Lake in Nagano, Japan

Nagano is a city located in central Japan. The city is well-known for its tropical climate, which offers a respite from the summer heat.

Nagano is also home to a number of attractions, including Ninja villages for children, Shiga Kogen Ski Resort, and Zenko-ji temple. These attractions make Nagano an attractive destination for tourists of all ages.

In 1998, Nagano hosted the Winter Olympics due to its ideal positioning in the Japanese Alps. This event was a great success and drew in tourists from all over the world.

The winter Olympics were a major boon to the local economy and helped to establish Nagano as a major tourist destination.

Nagano is located in the middle of Japan, making it a convenient destination to reach by plane, train, or car. The city has its own airport, which offers flights to and from major cities in Japan and abroad.

Nagano is also serviced by the Shinkansen bullet train, which makes the trip from Tokyo in just a few hours. Finally, Nagano is accessible by car via the Chūō Expressway.

There are a number of excellent places to stay in Nagano. Some of the best include the following:

15. Yokohama 

Cityscape of Yokohama, Japan

Yokohama is the second-largest city in Japan, but it’s quite different from both Tokyo and Osaka. Much like Osaka, Yokohama has always been a city that existed in Tokyo’s shadow.

Most of this city is relatively new and modern, because it was almost completely destroyed in various earthquakes in the early 20th Century, and what remained was destroyed in World War II.

But since then, Yohokama has made a serious rebound as a city, and it has turned into one of the best cities in the country to visit. 

The coolest part of Yokohama would have to be Minato Mirai, which literally translates to “harbor of the future”. It’s one of the most modern and high-tech districts in all of Japan, and it’s one of the reasons why Japan has such a “futuristic” reputation.

This can be a great place to explore, take some pictures, and appreciate the technology behind it all.

Yokohama is also home to Japan’s largest Chinatown, and a trip to that Chinatown is pretty much like being in China itself. For this reason, some consider Yokohama as the Japanese San Fransisco, but it’s even more unique in its own way. 

Other interesting things about Yokohama include the ramen museum, which is pretty much a shrine with all the ramen information in the world. Visiting Yokohama is also super simple since it’s not too far away from Tokyo and is well-connected with it.

16. Kamakura

Giant Buddha Statue in Kamakura, Japan

Kamakura is a historic seashore village that was once the capital of Japan.

It is home to many ancient Buddhist temples and is a popular tourist destination for those interested in Japanese history and culture. Kamakura is located in the Kantō region of Japan and is easily accessible from Tokyo.

There are many things to see and do in Kamakura, including visiting the temples, hiking through the bamboo forests, and enjoying the seaside views.

Kamakura is a great place to visit for those interested in Japanese history and culture, and it is also a great place to enjoy nature and relax.

There are many places to stay in Kamakura, including hotels, ryokan (Japanese inns), and guest houses like the Tosei Hotel Cocone Kamakura. There are also several restaurants and cafes in the area, as well as a few souvenir shops.

17. Takayama

Red Japanese Temple Gate in a Forest

Takayama is a gorgeous little town located on the edge of the Japanese Alps.

Visiting this town will almost make you feel like you’ve traveled back into the past because it’s filled with historic buildings. While Kyoto might be similarly historic, it’s still a major metropolis, while Takayama still manages to preserve the whole historic aura with a small-town feel.

Takayama’s historic district is super aesthetically pleasing to just stroll around in, take some pictures, and learn more about the town’s history.

The town is famous around Japan for having only the best Sake in the country, and it’s pretty much impossible to go to any street in this town without coming across a sake bar that dates back hundreds of years. 

Takayama is home to a lot of traditional festivals and the culture that we’ve all come to know and love is extremely well-preserved here.

Unlike every major city in Japan, western culture hasn’t really made its inroads in this small town, which gives it a unique character, making it feel more authentically Japanese.

But the most striking thing about this town is the natural scenery all around it. You could easily confuse it for Switzerland or Northern Italy. It’s one of the most naturally beautiful places you might ever see in your life.

18. Shibuya

People Passing on the Pedestrian in Shibuya

Shibuya is a thriving city located in Tokyo, Japan. It is well-known for its incredible shopping opportunities, as well as its lively nightlife. In addition,

Shibuya is home to many popular tourist attractions, including the Hachiko statue, the Shibuya Crossing, and the 109 shopping mall. Families will enjoy exploring the city’s numerous parks and gardens, while foodies will love trying out the local restaurants.

The Hachiko statue is a popular tourist attraction in the Shibuya district of Tokyo, Japan.

The statue commemorates Hachiko, an Akita dog who faithfully waited for his owner at the train station each day, even after his owner passed away. Today, the Hachiko statue is a symbol of loyalty and devotion.

Shibuya is also home to Haneda Airport, making it easy to access from anywhere in the world.

There are many great places to stay in Shibuya, including:

No matter what your budget, there is a place to stay in Shibuya that will meet your needs. So why not book a room today and explore everything this exciting city has to offer?

19. Odaiba

Boat Cruising in a River at Odaiba, Japan

Odaiba is a large artificial island in Tokyo Bay that is home to a number of shopping and entertainment destinations, including the upscale Oedo Onsen Monogatari.

The island was popular among tourists for the life-size Gundam statues that were on display in the mall of Diver City until they were removed in 2017.

There are a number of places to stay near Odaiba, but the best place to stay is definitely Conrad Tokyo. The Conrad Tokyo is a luxurious hotel located right on Odaiba’s waterfront and offers stunning views of the city skyline and Rainbow Bridge.

The hotel is also just a short walk from all of the shopping and entertainment destinations on Odaiba, making it the perfect place to stay for those looking to enjoy all that the island has to offer.

20. Mount Fuji 

Cherry Blossoms and Mount Fuji

Mount Fuji needs no introduction, but since you’re here, I’ll give it one.

It’s pretty much the most iconic cultural landmark in all of Japan, being the subject of all sorts of paintings, movies, tv shows, poems, and novels from both inside and outside of Japan. It’s actually an active snowcapped volcano, one of the tallest in the entire world. 

It’s an important spiritual site in Japan, and it’s pretty clear why. Just looking at it is inspiring. 

To reach Mount Fuji, all you need is an average level of fitness. Thousands of tourists with no prior experience climb the volcano’s peak every year.

It isn’t far from Tokyo, making it easy to get to, and climbing it provides you with one of the finest workouts you’ll find anywhere on Earth.

The area around Mount Fuji is as beautiful as the peak itself, and climbing all the way up to get a panoramic view of the whole area (as well as Tokyo) is the best payoff for all that hard work. 

21. Kobe 

City Lights at Night

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 Japan tourist attractions, but according to many experts, it might just be the best city in all of Japan to visit, if not the single-best tourist attraction. Period.

Famous for its namesake beef, Kobe has a reputation for being extremely pleasant.

The weather is never too extreme no matter what time of the year it is, and on top of that, Kobe is surrounded by nature, and you’ll be able to see mountains, forests, lakes, and beaches all over the city, sometimes even incorporated with the city infrastructure itself. 

Kobe is also home to some of Japan’s most well-known landmarks. The tall Kobe Port Tower is not only a sight to look at, but it’s also the perfect place to enjoy gorgeous 360-degree panoramic views of the entire city and countryside. 

Visiting Kobe is a learning experience that you can’t miss. There are a lot of cultural attractions in Kobe, with a bunch of world-class museums that detail a wealth of Japanese history.

There are also many historic buildings and temples, such as the Jain Temple with its white marble, which really is something you won’t see anywhere else in Japan. 

But overall, Kobe is great because it’s so laid back. Most of the residents like to spend the weekends relaxing on the beaches or in the city’s many parks.

The weather makes it a perfect place to spend time outdoors. If you’re gonna visit Japan, you have to visit this incredible city. 

22. Nara

Deer by the Japanese Temple Gate

Nara is located in the Kansai region of Japan and is easily accessible from other major cities in the area, such as Kyoto and Osaka. The easiest way to get to Nara is by train.

The JR Nara Line runs between Nara and Kyoto, and the Kintetsu Nara Line runs between Nara and Osaka. There are also buses that run between Nara and other nearby cities.

If you’re looking for a place in Japan that is rich in history and culture, Nara is the destination for you. With its well-preserved temples and shrines, Nara is another city that will take you back in time.

Be sure to check out the Todai-ji Temple, which is home to one of the world’s largest Buddha statues, and the Kasuga Taisha Shrine, with its thousands of stone lanterns.

Of course, no visit to Nara would be complete without a stroll through Nara Park, where you’ll be treated to sightings of tame deer grazing in the park.

When visiting Nara, there are a few places to stay that are within close proximity to the city’s top tourist attractions.

  • The Nara Hotel is conveniently located next to Nara Park and is within walking distance of all the temples and shrines in the city.
  • If you’re looking for a ryokan (Japanese inn), the Komachi Ryokan is a good option, as it is also located close to Nara Park.
  • For those who want to be in the heart of the action, the JR Tower Hotel in Osaka is a great choice, as it is just a short train ride away from Nara.

23. Ueno Park

Couples Paddling on a Lake at Ueno Park

Ueno Park is a place where people can find both Japanese countryside and also enjoy modern city life.

The park is home to many different attractions, such as temples, shrines, a zoo, a museum, and more. There are also many shops and restaurants in the area for people to enjoy.

Ueno Park is easily accessible by train.

The park is located right next to the Ueno Station, which makes it a convenient destination for tourists. There are also many other attractions in the area that people can visit, such as the Tokyo National Museum and the National Museum of Nature and Science.

There are many different places to stay near Ueno Park. Some of the best options include hotels, hostels, and ryokans.

  • Hotel Resol Ueno is a great option for people who want to stay near the park. The hotel is located right next to the park and offers excellent views of Shinobazu Pond. The rooms are also comfortable and spacious, and the hotel has a variety of restaurants and bars for people to enjoy.
  • Another great option is the Capsule Inn Ueno. This hostel is located just a few minutes from the park and offers guests a unique experience. The rooms are small but comfortable, and there are many different facilities and services available on-site.

24. Explore a Japanese castle

Tope of a White Castle in Osaka, Japan

Castles in Japan have a long and varied history. The first castles in Japan were built in the 6th Century, and they served as simple fortifications to protect against attacks from neighboring countries.

In the 12th Century, the first castle towers were built, and these structures became increasingly important in subsequent centuries.

By the 16th Century, Japan had been unified under a single ruler, and castles became an important part of the country’s political and military strategy. Many of the most famous Japanese castles were built during this period, including Osaka Castle and Hiroshima Castle.

Many Japanese castles were destroyed in World War II, but many have been rebuilt since then.

Today, Japanese castles remain a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into Japan’s fascinating history and culture. From the Imperial Palace to the castles of the Samurai, here are some of the best places to visit in Japan and experience its unique history and culture.

Some of the best castles in Japan include:

Final Thoughts

Japan is a country that is rich in culture and history.

There are so many places to visit and things to see that it can be hard to know where to start. We hope that this article has given you some ideas about the best places to visit in Japan and what you can expect when you get there.

As always, don’t forget to subscribe to the ViaTravelers newsletter for direct travel tips and destination guides directly to your email inbox.

If you’re looking for an amazing travel experience, Japan should definitely be at the top of your list!

Sayonara!

FAQ

What part of Japan should I visit?

There are many great places to visit in Japan, but some of the most popular tourist destinations include Kyoto, Tokyo, and Mount Fuji.

What is the prettiest city in Japan?

Kyoto. Especially between March and May when the cherry trees blossom.

What is the most common thing to do in Japan?

The most common thing to do in Japan is to go explore and enjoy the culture.

In terms of numbers, the one word that best describes what people do in Japan is “sightseeing” and this holds true for both residents and non-residents.

Tokyo does have many theme parks and amusement centers as well, but these are not often cited among Japanese residents as their favorite places to visit or enjoy time at.

The things I would add on top of that are visiting shrines, getting a spa treatment, or having a chat with friends from around the world over drinks at one of our excellent international drinking establishments.

Where is the most visited place in Japan?

Tokyo’s capital has long been a popular tourist destination for Japan. Millions of people visit each year to enjoy the city’s iconic landmarks and diverse culture.

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