Japan is a fascinating country, offering a perfect blend of ancient traditions and modernity. The land of the rising sun is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, vibrant cities, rich cultural heritage, delicious food, and friendly people. If you’re planning a trip to Japan, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to picking destinations to explore. Here are 17 of the best places to visit in Japan.
Tokyo
Tokyo, the capital city of Japan, is a bustling metropolis that offers something for everyone. This city is known for its high-tech innovations, fashion, shopping, and street food. Some of the must-see attractions in Tokyo include the Tokyo Skytree, the Imperial Palace, the Meiji Shrine, and the Tsukiji Fish Market. Shibuya and Harajuku are the perfect places for fashion lovers, while Akihabara is a paradise for technology enthusiasts.
Kyoto
Kyoto is a city that’s steeped in history and culture. It was once the capital of Japan and is now home to numerous shrines, temples, and gardens. The most famous attraction in Kyoto is the Fushimi Inari Shrine, which is known for its thousands of vermillion torii gates. Other notable places to visit in Kyoto include the Kiyomizu Temple, the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, and the Gion district.
Osaka
Osaka is a city that’s known for its vibrant food culture and nightlife. It’s home to some of the best street food in Japan, such as takoyaki and okonomiyaki. Some of the must-see attractions in Osaka include the Osaka Castle, the Dotonbori district, and the Universal Studios Japan theme park.
Hiroshima
Hiroshima is a city that’s known for its tragic past but has since become a symbol of hope and peace. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and serves as a reminder of the atomic bombing that occurred during World War II. Other attractions in Hiroshima include the Itsukushima Shrine, Miyajima Island, and the Hiroshima Castle.
Nara
Nara is a city that’s known for its ancient temples and the friendly deer that roam its streets. The Todaiji Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and houses the largest bronze Buddha statue in the world. The Kasuga Taisha Shrine and the Nara Park are also popular tourist destinations.
Kanazawa
Kanazawa is a city that’s known for its well-preserved Edo-era districts and traditional crafts. Some of the must-see attractions in Kanazawa include the Kenrokuen Garden, the Kanazawa Castle, and the Higashi Chaya district.
Sapporo
Sapporo is a city that’s located on the northern island of Hokkaido and is known for its beer, skiing, and snow festivals. Some of the must-see attractions in Sapporo include the Sapporo Beer Museum, the Odori Park, and the Sapporo Snow Festival.
Takayama
Takayama is a city that’s located in the mountainous region of Gifu prefecture and is known for its well-preserved Edo-era streets and traditional crafts. Some of the must-see attractions in Takayama include the Takayama Jinya, a former government outpost, and the Takayama Old Town, which has numerous old wooden buildings and shops.
Hakone
Hakone is a popular destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. This area is known for its hot springs, stunning views of Mount Fuji, and traditional ryokan inns. Some of the must-see attractions in Hakone include the Hakone Open-Air Museum, the Hakone Shrine, and the Lake Ashi cruise.
Kamakura
Kamakura is a city that’s located just south of Tokyo and is known for its numerous temples and shrines. The most famous attraction in Kamakura is the Great Buddha of Kamakura, a bronze statue that’s over 750 years old. Other notable places to visit in Kamakura include the Hasedera Temple, the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, and the Enoshima Island.
Okinawa
Okinawa is a tropical paradise located in the southern part of Japan. It’s known for its white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and unique culture. Some of the must-see attractions in Okinawa include the Churaumi Aquarium, the Shuri Castle, and the Kokusai Street.
Nagoya
Nagoya is a city that’s located in the central part of Japan and is known for its industrial heritage and culinary delights. Some of the must-see attractions in Nagoya include the Nagoya Castle, the Atsuta Shrine, and the Tokugawa Art Museum.
Yokohama
Yokohama is a city that’s located just south of Tokyo and is known for its bustling port, international cuisine, and stunning skyline. Some of the must-see attractions in Yokohama include the Minato Mirai 21 district, the Yokohama Chinatown, and the Sankeien Garden.
Kobe
Kobe is a city that’s located in the Kansai region of Japan and is known for its beef, sake, and stunning views of the sea and mountains. Some of the must-see attractions in Kobe include the Kobe Port Tower, the Kitano-cho district, and the Nunobiki Herb Garden.
Fukuoka
Fukuoka is a city that’s located in the southern part of Japan and is known for its delicious food, vibrant nightlife, and historical sites. Some of the must-see attractions in Fukuoka include the Fukuoka Castle, the Ohori Park, and the Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine.
Nikko
Nikko is a small town that’s located in the mountains north of Tokyo and is known for its stunning natural scenery and historic sites. Some of the must-see attractions in Nikko include the Toshogu Shrine, the Kegon Falls, and the Lake Chuzenji.
Conclusion
Japan is a country that’s rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the peaceful temples of Kyoto, there’s something for everyone in this fascinating country. Whether you’re interested in history, food, or nature, Japan has it all.
FAQs
- What is the best time to visit Japan? A: The best time to visit Japan is during the spring (March to May) or the fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and the cherry blossoms or autumn foliage are in full bloom.
- What is the currency used in Japan? A: The currency used in Japan is the Japanese yen (JPY).
- What is the main language spoken in Japan? A: The main language spoken in Japan is Japanese.
- Is Japan a safe country to visit? A: Yes, Japan is considered one of the safest countries in the world, with low crime rates and a high level of public safety.
- Do I need a visa to visit Japan? A: It depends on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. Many countries have visa exemption agreements with Japan, allowing visitors to stay for up to 90 days without a visa. However, some countries may require a visa. It’s best to check with the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country for more information.