The Top 10 Must-Visit Places in Japan

Published Date : Dec 17, 2024

Category : Travel tips

The Top 10 Must-Visit Places in Japan

Key Takeaways:

  • From lively cities to peaceful areas in nature, Japan has a lot to offer and makes sure that every wanderer has something to love about it.
  • By visiting tea houses and performing traditional rituals or going to historical sites, tourists will learn much about Japan.
  • Apart from the major tourist attractions, Japan has its own set of places which are lesser-known and provide a different experience than the crowded tourist areas.

 

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

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.

Major Attractions

  • 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

Cultural Experiences

Making sushi, enjoying anime and manga in Akihabara, or watching kabuki shows makes it possible for travelers to experience Tokyo’s many different cultures.

Tourism Insights

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

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.

Must-Visit Temples and Shrines

  • Fushimi Inari Taisha: This shrine is well known for its numerous red torii gates, which creates an appealing trail as one goes up the Inari mountain.
  • Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion): This Zen-style Buddhist temple, decorated with pure gold, reflected nicely in a pond.
  • Kiyomizu-dera: Particularly famous for its wooden theater reaching out far from the core building, it has superb views particularly in spring when the cherry blossoms are quite stunning.

Traditional Experiences

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:

  • Participate in a tea ceremony at a traditional tea house.
  • Appreciate a geisha performance in the Gion district.
  • Stay at a ryokan, traditional Japanese inn.
  • Dress in a kimono and explore the streets of Higashiyama.
  • Try Kyoto kaiseki dining, a multi-course Japanese haute cuisine.
  • Stroll through Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
  • Visit Nishiki Market for local delicacies and crafts.

Tourism Trends

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

Vibrant City Highlights

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 Castle: A historic structure with a moat and park around it and it shows the feudal history of Japan.
  • Dotonbori: A populated section of Osaka known for its intensity, brilliant colors, abundant restaurants, and busy streets.
  • Universal Studios Japan: Features rides and attractions based on popular Universal Studios films. It is also the first Universal theme park to introduce anime-themed attractions.

Culinary Delights

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.

Food Tourism Statistics

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.

 

Hiroshima

Historical Context

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.

Key Sites

  • Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park: A memorial dedicated to the nuclear weapon victims.
  • Atomic Bomb Dome: The site where the hypocenter was located, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, maintained in the condition it was in right after the attack.
  • Miyajima Island: Known for the "floating" torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine, is endowed with the most beautiful sceneries, making the area one of the most picturesque in Japan.

Visitor Data

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

Hokkaido, Japan’s 2nd largest island, offers awe inspiring landscapes with mountain ranges, and attracts visitors with its cities amidst the quieter rural areas.

Major Attractions:

  • Sapporo: Hokkaido’s largest city is known for food lovers thanks to their famous snow festival and their local attractions.
  • Hakodate: A preferred tourist place with wonderful views from Mount Hakodate paired with delicious and fresh seafood.
  • Furano and Biei: These towns stand out for their pretty lavender fields and hilly areas, which present beautiful views especially during summer.
  • Daisetsuzan National Park: Hokkaido's largest national park, offers hikers and nature lovers stunning views of untouched wilderness.
  • Shiretoko Peninsula: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Shiretoko is one of Japan's most beautiful and protected national parks.

Seasonal Attractions:

  • Sapporo Snow Festival: Every February, this festival is staged to display wonderful snow and ice sculptures, attracting people from all over the world.
  • Lavender Fields in Furano: From late June to August, the fields turn into mesmerizing purple colors.

Cultural Experiences:

  • Asahikawa Ramen Village: Famous for its flavourful  soy sauce-based ramen.
  • Otaru Canal Area: Its preserved canal and historical buildings reflect the city's past as a major port.

Tourism Insights:

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.

 

Okinawa

Best Beaches

Beach lovers and enthusiasts would find these Okinawa turquoise sea and white sands irresistible:

  • Ishigaki Island: Famous for coral reefs and marine creatures.
  • Kabira Bay: Known for its emerald water and beautiful scenery.
  • Taketomi Island: A quiet retreat demonstrating the traditional Ryukyuan life.

Activities

There's something for every traveler in Okinawa.

  • Snorkeling 
  • Diving
  • Explore Ryukyuan

Tourism Trends

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.

 

Mount Fuji

Best Viewing Spots

Japan’s most iconic landmark, Mount Fuji provides spectacular views from different places:

  • Lake Kawaguchiko: Offers spectacular reflections of the mountain.
  • Hakone: Famous for its hot springs and scenic views of Mt.Fuji.

Activities

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.

Visitor Statistics

In 2024, some 204,320 people climbed Mount Fuji during the summer climbing season with  Yoshida Trail attracting 114,860 climbers.

 

Kanazawa

Attractions

  • Kenroku-en Garden: Constructed during the Edo period, considered one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan 
  • Kanazawa Castle: A restored key historic landmark.
  • 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art: Designed by renowned Japanese architects, Kazuyo Sejima and Ryue Nishizawa, perfect for the family.

Cultural Tourism

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

Must-See Attractions

Nara, Japan's first permanent capital, is home to numerous historical treasures:

  • Todai-ji Temple: Houses the Great Buddha (Daibutsu), one of Japan's largest bronze statues.
  • Nara Park: Famous for its free-roaming deer, which are considered messengers of the gods in Shinto tradition.

Historical Tourism Trends

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 Gems in Japan

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.          

Data on Emerging Destinations

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.

 

Conclusion

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!

 

Freaquently Ask Questions

What is the best time to visit Japan?

  • Tourists tend to visit from March to May (spring) and September to November (autumn).

How many days should I spend in Japan?

  • An ideal holiday in Japan would be 14 days but 7-10 days can get you to lots of places.

Do I need a visa to travel to Japan?

  • Many countries are visa-free. Visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan website for the latest information.

Are there any recommended travel packages for first-time visitors?

  • Yes, for the perfect getaway deals, book with us, Holidays Center, for big discounts and big savings!
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