Places To Visit in Japan

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Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and the places worth a detour

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Japan's main sights follow the same line as the trains. Tokyo has Senso-ji temple, the Shibuya crossing, teamLab's light rooms and day trips to Hakone for Mount Fuji views or Nikko for shrines in the (Read More) forest. Kyoto has the most famous sights in the country: Fushimi Inari and its orange gates, the golden pavilion at Kinkaku-ji, and the bamboo grove at Arashiyama, with Nara an hour away for its deer park and 15-metre bronze Buddha. Osaka has Dotonbori's food streets, Osaka Castle and Himeji's white castle an hour west. If you have more days, Hiroshima and Miyajima are half a day further, Hokkaido has snow in winter and lavender in summer, and Okinawa has the beaches.

1. Tokyo

4.8 /5

1 out of 35
Places to visit in Japan 31
Tourist attractions

Known For : Senso-ji Temple (Asakusa) Shibuya Tokyo Sky Tree

Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is in every sense- a mix. This city is known for its technological prowess, its quirky pop culture, and its simultaneous attachment to tradition. With every area having something different to offer, it is truly the best place for any tourist seeking variety and adventure...

Best Time: March to May, October to November

2. Osaka

4.4 /5

2 out of 35
Places to visit in Japan 20
Tourist attractions

Known For : Osaka Castle Dotonbori (Canal and Glico Sign) Universal Studios, Osaka

Japans second-most important city, Osaka is a city unlike the ultra-modern Tokyo and the traditional Kyoto, with a character of its own. Even the locals speak a unique Japanese dialect. Its charm may seem ubiquitous at first, hidden along large buildings and business centres, but Osaka offers delig...

Best Time: March to May, October to November

3. Kyoto

4.7 /5

3 out of 35
Places to visit in Japan 29
Tourist attractions

Known For : Fushimi Inari Taisha Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) Arashiyama

While other cities of Japan embrace modernity without hesitation, Kyoto still maintains traces of tradition, and old Japanese culture. With every street, mountain and shrine having something to offer, Kyoto is a must-visit for a rich, wholesome cultural experience.

Best Time: March to May, October to November

4. Nara

4.7 /5

4 out of 35
Places to visit in Japan 14
Tourist attractions

Known For : Nara Park Todai-ji Temple Kasuga Taisha

Nara, Japan is a great destination for travelers who are looking for a mix of history and natural beauty. Located in the Kansai region of Japan, the city of Nara is home to some of the country’s most impressive landmarks, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and breathtaking scenery. The most notable touris...

Best Time: April - June, September - November

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5. Nagoya

4.2 /5

5 out of 35
Places to visit in Japan 30
Tourist attractions

Known For : Nagoya Castle Atsuta Shrine Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology

Nagoya is a city which was known in the past for its samurai and ninja culture but has fast evolved to become the hub of automobile and aircraft manufacturing in Japan. Slowly it is making its way onto the tourist map as well for those who want to get away from the city madness in Tokyo and enjoy a ...

Best Time: October - May

6. Hiroshima

4.1 /5

6 out of 35
Places to visit in Japan 14
Tourist attractions

Known For : Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Atomic Bomb Dome Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum

Hiroshima, located in the western part of Honshu in Japan, is a city known for its tragic past. With a population of over 1.1 million people, it is a vibrant city with a complex history that continues to draw visitors from around the world.

Best Time: March - May, September - November

7. Kamakura

4.5 /5

7 out of 35
Places to visit in Japan 11
Tourist attractions

Known For : Kotoku-in (Great Buddha) Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Hase-dera

Kamakura, Japan is a small seaside city near Tokyo that holds a great deal of historical and cultural significance. A traveler to Kamakura should explore the numerous temples, shrines, and beaches, and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Best Time: March - June, November - December

8. Narita

4.2 /5

8 out of 35
Places to visit in Japan 5
Tourist attractions

Known For : Naritasan Shinshoji Temple Naritasan Omotesando Naritasan Park

Situated just outside Tokyo, Narita is a city rich in culture, history, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler. Located in Chiba Prefecture, the city is best known for its Narita International Airport, which is the primary international gateway for the Greater Tokyo ...

Best Time: April - June, September - November

9. Kanazawa

4.5 /5

9 out of 35
Places to visit in Japan 16
Tourist attractions

Known For : Kenrokuen Garden Kanazawa Castle Park Higashi Chaya District

Kanazawa is a vibrant and historical city located on the west coast of Honshu, Japan. Its proximity to Tokyo makes it a great weekend getaway for any traveler looking to explore a unique part of Japan. Kanazawa is known for its traditional old town, Kenroku-en Garden, and the preserved samurai distr...

Best Time: April - June, September - November

10. Sendai

4.2 /5

10 out of 35
Places to visit in Japan 14
Tourist attractions

Known For : Sendai Castle Ruins Zuihoden Mausoleum Day Trip to Matsushima Bay

Sendai, located in the northern part of Japan, is a bustling city with a lot to offer to the tourists. With a rich history and culture, Sendai is a great place to experience the best of Japan. Tourists can visit the various attractions, such as Zuihoden, a mausoleum dedicated to the feudal warlord D...

Best Time: April - June, September - November

11. Hakodate

4.1 /5

11 out of 35
Places to visit in Japan 14
Tourist attractions

Known For : Mount Hakodate Goryokaku Park Hakodate Morning Market

Hakodate, located in the southernmost part of Hokkaido, is a charming seaside city full of history and culture. With its stunning views of the harbor, impressive mountain backdrop, and delightful seafood, Hakodate is a great destination for anyone looking for a peaceful retreat.

Best Time: June - August

12. Nagasaki

4.3 /5

12 out of 35
Places to visit in Japan 14
Tourist attractions

Known For : Nagasaki Peace Park Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum Glover Garden

Nagasaki city in Japan is an attractive destination for travelers of all kinds. Located in the south-western part of the country, it is known for its majestic mountain ranges, lush valleys, and beautiful coastline. Visitors come here to experience its rich culture, stunning scenery, and vibrant nigh...

Best Time: March - May, September - November

13. Karuizawa

4.3 /5

13 out of 35
Places to visit in Japan 12
Tourist attractions

Known For : Shiraito Falls Kumoba Pond Stone Church

Karuizawa is a popular summer destination in Japan for travelers to explore the stunning landscapes of Nagano Prefecture. Located near the active volcano of Mount Asama, Karuizawa has a temperate climate, making it the perfect place to escape the sweltering summer heat in Japan.

Best Time: June - September

14. Nagano

4.3 /5

14 out of 35
Places to visit in Japan 13
Tourist attractions

Known For : Zenko-ji Temple Day Trip to Jigokudani Monkey Park Togakushi Shrine

Nagano hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics and is Japan's main gateway to ski resorts in the Japanese Alps. It's also home to Zenko-ji, a seventh-century Buddhist temple that draws pilgrims year-round, close enough to the Jigokudani snow monkey park that most visitors combine both in a day trip.

Best Time: December - February

15. Matsumoto

4.5 /5

15 out of 35
Places to visit in Japan 14
Tourist attractions

Known For : Matsumoto Castle Day Trip to Kamikochi Nakamachi Street

Matsumoto, Japan is a beautiful city located in the northern part of Nagano Prefecture. It is the gateway to the Japanese Alps and has a lot to offer tourists. The city is known for its beautiful castle, the oldest in Japan, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is also famous for its park...

Best Time: April - June, September - November

16. Kumamoto

4.0 /5

16 out of 35
Places to visit in Japan 14
Tourist attractions

Known For : Kumamoto Castle Suizenji Jojuen Garden Day Trip to Mount Aso

Kumamoto, located in Japan's Kyushu region, is an ideal destination for travelers looking to explore the beauty of Japan. With its stunning natural beauty, unique cultural attractions, and historical sites, Kumamoto is a must-visit for any traveler to Japan.

Best Time: March - May, September - November

17. Furano

4.3 /5

17 out of 35
Places to visit in Japan 7
Tourist attractions

Known For : Farm Tomita Day Trip to Biei Furano Ski Resort

Furano sits in central Hokkaido and is known for its lavender fields, in full bloom through July, and its ski slopes in winter. The Furano Wine Factory and nearby Biei's patchwork hills make it an easy add-on to a Hokkaido itinerary built around Sapporo.

Best Time: June - August

18. Atami

4.4 /5

18 out of 35
Places to visit in Japan 9
Tourist attractions

Known For : Atami Onsen MOA Museum of Art Kinomiya Shrine

Atami, Japan is a scenic seaside town located in Shizuoka prefecture, about 100 km south-west of Tokyo. It's a popular destination for travelers looking for a peaceful getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city. Atami boasts stunning views of Mount Fuji, beautiful beaches, and a variety of cultu...

Best Time: April - June, September - November

19. Okayama

4.6 /5

19 out of 35
Places to visit in Japan 14
Tourist attractions

Known For : Okayama Korakuen Okayama Castle Day Trip to Kurashiki

Okayama sits on Japan's Seto Inland Sea coast in the south-western part of Honshu, and is best known for Korakuen, ranked one of Japan's three finest gardens, and the well-preserved Edo-era streets of nearby Kurashiki. It works well as a quieter stop between Osaka and Hiroshima on the bullet-train l...

Best Time: April - June, September - November

20. Kagoshima

4.5 /5

20 out of 35
Places to visit in Japan 13
Tourist attractions

Known For : Sakurajima Sengan-en Shiroyama Observatory

Kagoshima is a serene city located in the south of Japan's Kyushu Island. It is known for its natural beauty, its strategic location in the Seto Inland Sea, and its warm climate. For travelers, Kagoshima provides a great opportunity to explore the region's rich history and culture, volcanic landscap...

Best Time: March - May, September - November

21. Sasebo

4.0 /5

21 out of 35
Places to visit in Japan 8
Tourist attractions

Known For : Huis Ten Bosch Kujukushima Islands Tenkaiho Observatory

Sasebo is a charming port city located in Nagasaki Prefecture in Japan. It is renowned for its seafood-focused cuisine, picturesque natural views, and historical sites. It is the perfect destination for those looking for a relaxed getaway.

Best Time: March - May, September - November

22. Fukuoka

4.3 /5

22 out of 35
Places to visit in Japan 10
Tourist attractions

Known For : Yatai Food Stalls Day Trip to Dazaifu Ohori Park

A coastal city in the northern part of Kyushu island, Fukuoka is a must-visit for travelers to Japan. From its stunning natural landscapes to its vibrant culture, Fukuoka provides a unique experience that one cannot find anywhere else.

Best Time: March - May, September - November

23. Sapporo

4.7 /5

23 out of 35
Places to visit in Japan 12
Tourist attractions

Known For : Odori Park Sapporo Snow Festival Mount Moiwa

Sapporo is the largest city in Hokkaido, Japan, located in the Ishikari Subprefecture. It is a popular tourist destination known for its snow festivals, delicious seafood, and nearby ski resorts. Tourists should visit the Sapporo Clock Tower, an iconic symbol of the city, and Odori Park, a large par...

Best Time: December - February

24. Naha

4.2 /5

24 out of 35
Places to visit in Japan 14
Tourist attractions

Known For : Shuri Castle Kokusai-dori Daiichi Makishi Public Market

Naha is the largest city in Okinawa, Japan, and one of the major tourist attractions in the country. It's known for its tropical climate, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife. Located on the southernmost island of Okinawa, Naha is a great place to visit for both beach-goers and culture-seekers al...

Best Time: October - December

25. Hakuba

4.5 /5

25 out of 35
Places to visit in Japan 9
Tourist attractions

Known For : Happo Pond Hakuba Iwatake Mountain Harbor Tsugaike Nature Park

Hakuba is a picturesque ski resort village in Japan's Nagano Prefecture. Located in the beautiful Northern Alps, the village offers the best of both worlds – a tranquil getaway with plenty of exciting activities. With breathtaking views of Mt. Shirouma and the surrounding mountains, visitors can enj...

Best Time: December - February

26. Niseko

4.1 /5

26 out of 35
Places to visit in Japan 7
Tourist attractions

Known For : Mount Yotei Niseko Annupuri Shinsen-numa Marsh

Niseko, Japan is a picturesque ski town located on the island of Hokkaido. It's known for its powdery snow, stunning landscapes, and world-class skiing. It's a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and an ideal destination for anyone looking to take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Best Time: December - February

27. Fujikawaguchiko

4.2 /5

27 out of 35
Places to visit in Japan 9
Tourist attractions

Known For : Chureito Pagoda Lake Kawaguchi Oishi Park

Fujikawaguchiko is a scenic town located at the base of Mount Fuji, in the Yamanashi Prefecture of Japan. It is a popular destination for tourists looking to experience the beauty of Japan’s iconic mountain. The town offers a variety of attractions and activities, from serene lakeside views to outdo...

Best Time: April - June, September - November

28. Hakone

4.7 /5

28 out of 35
Places to visit in Japan 16
Tourist attractions

Known For : Owakudani Lake Ashi Hakone Shrine and Heiwa no Torii

Located in the Kanto region of Japan, Hakone is a popular tourist destination for those looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. It has something for everyone, from hot springs to lakes to amazing views from the top of Mt. Fuji, making it a great place for a weekend getaway.

Best Time: April - June, September - November

29. Takayama

4.6 /5

29 out of 35
Places to visit in Japan 14
Tourist attractions

Known For : Sanmachi Suji Old Town Takayama Jinya Day Trip to Shirakawa-go

Takayama is a beautiful city nestled in the mountains of Japan's Gifu Prefecture. It is renowned for its well-preserved old town, traditional culture, and stunning natural scenery. Takayama is the perfect destination for those looking to explore Japanese culture as well as its rich history.

Best Time: April - June, September - November

30. Kobe

4.4 /5

30 out of 35
Places to visit in Japan 13
Tourist attractions

Known For : Kobe Port Tower Kitano-cho Ijinkan District Arima Onsen

Kobe is one of Japan's most popular tourist destinations, situated in the Kansai region of the country. It is known for its cosmopolitan atmosphere and stunning views of the sea. Tourists are attracted to Kobe for its shopping, nightlife, and delicious cuisine. There are many attractions to explore,...

Best Time: March - May, September - November

31. Ishigaki Island

4.0 /5

31 out of 35
Places to visit in Japan 16
Tourist attractions

Known For : Kabira Bay Cape Hirakubo Tamatorizaki Observatory

Ishigaki Island, located in the Okinawa Prefecture of Japan, is a tropical paradise that offers something for everyone. It is a popular destination for beach lovers, snorkelers, and hikers. The island is known for its beautiful white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and lush greenery. It is one o...

Best Time: October - December

32. Onna

4.5 /5

32 out of 35
Places to visit in Japan 10
Tourist attractions

Known For : Cape Manzamo Cape Maeda and the Blue Cave Ryukyu Mura

Onna, Japan is a small coastal village that has become a popular tourist hub due to its stunning beaches, lush green landscapes, and vibrant culture. Situated on Okinawa's west coast, Onna is the perfect destination for travelers looking for an escape from their mundane lives.

Best Time: October - December

33. Takamatsu

4.6 /5

33 out of 35
Places to visit in Japan 14
Tourist attractions

Known For : Ritsurin Garden Day Trip to Naoshima Yashima

Takamatsu is a port city in Japan and is the capital of Kagawa prefecture. It is hemmed in by the Seto Inland Sea and is renowned for its stunning gardens, temples, and shrines. The city is home to some of Japan’s most exquisite gardens and is popular amongst visitors for its traditional atmosphere ...

Best Time: April - June, September - November

34. Yokohama

4.3 /5

34 out of 35
Places to visit in Japan 16
Tourist attractions

Known For : Yokohama Chinatown Minato Mirai 21 Red Brick Warehouse

Yokohama is a vibrant port city located south of Tokyo, Japan. It is a popular tourist destination renowned for its amazing skyline, beautiful parks, and scrumptious cuisine. The city’s most famous attraction is the Minato Mirai 21 district, which features the Landmark Tower, one of the tallest buil...

Best Time: April - June, September - November

35. Beppu

4.2 /5

35 out of 35
Places to visit in Japan 13
Tourist attractions

Known For : Umi Jigoku Chinoike Jigoku Takasakiyama Monkey Park

Beppu is a city on the southeastern island of Kyushu in Japan. It is known for its hot springs, or ‘onsen’ and its proximity to Mount Yufu. It is a popular tourist destination for those looking to relax in the natural hot springs and explore the local culture.

Best Time: March - May, September - November

FAQs on Japan

What is the currency of Japan?

Japanese yen is the national currency. The most frequently used notes are JPY 1000, JPY 2000, JPY 5000 and JPY 10000. Cash is what is most commonly accepted here. While several stores and hotels accept cards, smaller places such as cafes and bistros do not. Carrying cash around is quite safe, and since it is most commonly accepted, it is always better to do so. Some people also make payments through their mobile phones.

What is the history of Japan?

First habitation in Japan can be traced back to the pre-historic era. The Heian period began in 1794, which is still considered to be the golden age of Japan, in terms of their culture. Gradually, imperial power began to decline and went into the hands of the military and the samurai warriors. Eventually, with the clash of several powers, including Mongol power, Japan entered into civil war. During the late 16th century, Japan was reunified under Oda Nobunaga and his successor. A Tokugawa shogunate was appointed, but this came to an end between 1853 to 1854, where power returned to the Emperor. The atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki are also an important, extremely tragic event in Japan's history. It was only after 1955 that Japan became economically powerful and independent.

What is unique about culture of Japan?

Japan is a country that is soaked in traditions, but that is also trying to keep up with the modern times. Its population is diverse, contrary to popular belief of it being homogeneous. You will find a lot of minority groups in Japan. The nuclear family is given prime importance. Multiple religions can also be found here. Buddhism and Shinto are the two largely practised religions of Japan. Many Christians also live here. The most widely spoken language here is Japanese, but it is divided into a number ofÊdialects. Ryukyuan languages are also spoken across the country, as well as Chinese and Korean. Other languages spoken here are English, French, Russian, German, Portuguese and Spanish.

How is Japan divided into regions?

The regions of Japan are Hokkaido, known for its cool climate, Tohoku, which is well-known for its hot springs, Kanto, which houses the capital, Chubu, home to the Japan Alps, Kansai, which is the cultural capital, Chugoku which houses Hiroshima, Shikoku, a great destination for rafting, Kyushu, where Japanese civilization was born and Okinawa, a southern island.
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