Published Date : Dec 17, 2024
Category : Travel tips
Key Takeaways:
Japan is an island country of contradictions. It manages to keep its old culture in the wake of modern arts skills and architecture. With its neighborhoods and cities or regions expanding the environments cover every single traveler’s needs to its full potential. No matter if you are a person who likes to visit popular Japanese sights, a person who enjoys exploring the Japanese heritage, or simply wanting to find unique places to visit in Japan, this article will show you some of the most exciting places in Japan, guiding you into memorable experiences.
Tokyo, combines high-rise towers with ancient temples. A city like no other, Tokyo is a blend of tech, fashion and tradition. If you are visiting Japan, this city should be at the top of your list.
Shibuya Crossing: Regarded as the world's busiest pedestrian crossing, Shibuya Crossing captures the lively essence of Tokyo.
Tokyo Tower: Inspired by the famous Eiffel Tower, nothing beats the iconic view of the city from the Tokyo Tower.
Asakusa: Home to Tokyo's oldest temple, Senso-ji, indulge in the city's rich history.
The Imperial Palace: Hidden away, the palace reflects Japan's imperial past.
Attraction | Ticket Price | Accessibility | Recommended Visiting Hours |
Shibuya Crossing | Free | Accessible by Shibuya Station | Evening for neon-lit visuals |
Tokyo Tower | ¥1,200-¥3,500 | Accessible via Akabanebashi Subway Station | Late afternoon for sunset views |
Asakusa (Senso-ji Temple) | Free | Accessible by Asakusa Station | Morning to avoid crowds |
The Imperial Palace | Free | Short walk from Tokyo Station | Guided tours at specific hours |
Making sushi, enjoying anime and manga in Akihabara, or watching kabuki shows makes it possible for travelers to experience Tokyo’s many different cultures.
In 2023, there was an increase in visitor arrivals to Tokyo from overseas. This city experienced the biggest number of tourists recording an increase of 42% in the first 4 months of 2024 as compared to 2019.
Kyoto, which was once Japan’s capital city, still is regarded as the motherland of culture and history with its large population of temples, shrines and wooden residential areas.
Kyotowill take you through a voyage that has a touch of culture in every corner of the city. Practicing the ancient art of tea ceremony, watching dances performed by ornately dressed geishas or just wandering through old temples and bamboo thickets make Kyoto sure to please every traveler.
Here’s a checklist of traditional experiences every visitor to Kyoto should try:
In the year 2023, we can observe a remarkable recovery in the number of tourists visiting Kyoto Prefecture, which reached around 75.18 million. It's an 8.5 million improvement from the previous year and even higher than in 2019 before the pandemic with Kyoto City attracting 50.28 million visitors. Interestingly, the expenditures of foreigners reached ¥1.54 trillion, representing a growth of 24.3% compared to 2019.
Osaka has always been more easy-going than Tokyo. Modern architecture and bustling nightlife wait for you in modern Osaka, the heart of Japan. Here are the best places to see in Osaka:
Osaka's title of being "Nation's Kitchen" is quite justified, Embark on the new adventure with okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) and takoyaki (octopus balls). The streets of Dotonbori will not disappoint.
In 2023, Osaka became one of the most traveled tourist destinations in Japan, welcoming 15.6 million foreigners and earning about $25.9 billion in tourism revenue. If you enjoy good food, you’ll surely love the unique dining experience of the restaurants in Osaka.
As the first city to experience the impact of the atomic bomb, Hiroshima’s history has become the symbol of resilience. Its history has transformed this city into a beacon of hope.
Due to the massive international publicity the G7 Summit gained for Hiroshima, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum managed to break its own record in 2023, averaging an impressive 1.9 million visitors.
Hokkaido, Japan’s 2nd largest island, offers awe inspiring landscapes with mountain ranges, and attracts visitors with its cities amidst the quieter rural areas.
Its year round events are what draw local and foreign tourists in Hokkaido. In Q1 of 2024, Hokkaido had 3 million visitors, marking a strong recovery in tourism.
Beach lovers and enthusiasts would find these Okinawa turquoise sea and white sands irresistible:
There's something for every traveler in Okinawa.
Okinawa is experiencing a steady increase in tourism in 2024, coming from an 8.22 million tourists in 2023 (44.3% increase from 2022), the region’s beaches and distinctive culture continue to be major draws for local and foreign travelers.
Japan’s most iconic landmark, Mount Fuji provides spectacular views from different places:
The lure of climbing Japan’s Mount Fuji during the official climbing season (July to early September) is a must do for many travelers. Here’s a quick overview to help with your Mt. Fuji adventure:
Step-by-Step Guide to Climbing Mount Fuji | |
Prepare in Advance | Look up for the climbing season which is usually between July to early September. Book in advance to get a mountain hut if planning to do an overnight climb. |
Choose a Trail | Yoshida Trail is the most popular and ideal for new climbers. Subashiri, Gotemba, or Fujinomiya Trails are good options for those who wish to avoid the crowds. |
Pack Essentials | Sturdy hiking boots, warm clothing, a waterproof suit, head lamp, and food items. Oxygen cans to help for breathlessness in high altitude areas. |
Start the Climb | Climbers should start the journey from the 5th Station. Pace yourself while climbing to avoid getting altitude sickness. |
Rest Overnight | Take a break at a hut near the 7th or 8th station. Start early in order to proceed with further climb and to experience the sun rise (Goraiko) |
Descend Safely | Stick to the marked paths. Rest regularly to reduce the danger of strain. |
If you prefer a slower pace, boat tours of nearby lakes offer peaceful and calm views.
In 2024, some 204,320 people climbed Mount Fuji during the summer climbing season with Yoshida Trail attracting 114,860 climbers.
Kanazawa's Edo-period districts like Higashi Chaya still attract tourists for their well-preserved historical charm, offering a peek into Japan's cultural heritage. The city's traditional appeal remains a big attraction for those seeking deep and authentic experiences.
Nara, Japan's first permanent capital, is home to numerous historical treasures:
Nara’s timeless appeal draws visitors seeking immersive cultural experiences, from Todai-ji Temple to serene Nara Park. Post-pandemic, the shift toward reflective and sustainable travel makes it a top choice for engaging with Japan’s heritage.
Hidden Gem | Description |
Naoshima Island | A must see for art lovers. Labeled as the "Art Island", Naoshima is known for its contemporary art museums and outdoor exhibits. |
Takachiho Gorge | Provides tourists with a mystical retreat offering stunning basalt cliffs and myths about the origins of Japanese deities |
Shirakawa-go | A UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses that are said to have stood for over 300 years. |
Tourists have been flooding Japan lately with Naoshima Island, Takachiho Gorge and Shirakawa-go having a great deal of attention. Per the Japan Tourism Agency 2023 report, there has been a huge interest in areas with a deeper connection to the history of Japan.
Japan has never been shy to share its diverse experiences to the world. The beauty of this country is unmatched. If you’re still deciding on places to visit in Japan, here’s a quick recap to help you:
Destination | Category | Highlight |
Tokyo | Urban | Vibrant city life, shopping, culture |
Kyoto | Cultural | Temples, traditional experiences |
Osaka | Culinary | Street food, nightlife |
Hiroshima | Historical | Peace Memorial Park, Atomic Bomb Dome |
Hokkaido | Natural | Snow festivals, lavender fields |
Okinawa | Beach/Nature | Coral reefs, tropical beaches |
Mount Fuji | Natural/Cultural | Iconic mountain, hiking trails |
Kanazawa | Cultural | Edo-period districts, Kenroku-en |
Nara | Cultural | Todai-ji Temple, free-roaming deer |
Hidden Gems | Offbeat | Naoshima, Takachiho Gorge, Shirakawa-go |
Whether you’re on a solo journey or with friends and family, planning to visit Japan is a no-brainer. Start planning your trip to Japan. Be captivated and experience a one-of-a-kind journey!
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