1. Japan Tourism: Best of Japan About Japan In the Land of the Rising Sun, ancient temples sit alongside neon wonderlands and shinto shrines offer pockets of peace amid metropolises. Kasuga Grand Shrine by Arif Alakbar via Shutterstock. It feels tranquil in this area, but a short walk will take you to hectic places like the Scramble Crossing, where youll find bars and clubs galore and the Hachiko Memorial Statue. After spending some time surrounded by adorable creatures, head to Tdai-ji Temple, which dates back to the year 752 CE and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Japanese people joke that shes a shy mountain, but in reality, its all a matter of temperature and pressure. Its a town located in a mountain area west of Tokyo and is famous as a onsen town where, like I already mentioned, you can enjoy plenty of onsen bathing and you also get a great view of Japans most iconic mountain, Mount Fuji. As the most modern, most varied city in Japan, Tokyo offers a mix of old and new like nowhere else. Hiko, with its copper torii gates at the top, and Mt. Its the perfect place to experience spending the night in a ryokana traditional Japanese inn. Founded 1400 years ago, you can find traditional sites, but most people go to Osaka to enjoy its modern atmosphere. Before you leave Nikko, stop by the 100-meter high Kegon Falls, which flows out of Lake Chuzenji. Kobe (Hyogo) Kobe is a fashionable city in the southern part of Hyogo Prefecture in the Kansai region of Japan. If you love sightseeing boats, head to either Geibikei Gorge or Matsushima Bay. Surfers stay on the mainland, but swimmers and sunbathers cross the footbridge for the exceptional resorts. Make sure to taste some of the hot spring water-cooked delicacies at at restaurants or shops in the city. Here is our list of the best cities in Japan, in no particular order, excluding Tokyo. There are some amazing day trips from Osaka that are highly recommended and great for some of the best places to visit in Japan for first timers. Since its founding in 738 CE, it has housed the worlds biggest bronze Giant Buddha and was the largest wooden building until 1998. It's also the best season to explore the islands untouched natural sites like the Shiretoko Peninsula, Kushiro Marshlands, and Lake Toya. Near Matsue is Izumo Taisha, one of the most ancient and important Shinto shrines in Japan, and the Adachi Museum of Art. The Senso-Ji temple is one of the Asakusa is a buzzing area in its own right and worth exploring. Japans northernmost island has so much to offer, and yet hasnt garnered as much attention as Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. Although Osaka doesnt have a lot of attractions in the city itself, as compared to Tokyo and Kyoto, it does have its own vibe that makes it worth staying for a night or 2. When you step into Kyoto, Japanese history comes to life right before your eyes. This port city was one of the first port cities to open to foreign trade in the 19th century. Heres the link to my 2 weeks in Japan itinerary. The second largest city in Japan after Tokyo, Osaka is more relaxed than the capital. Theres no such thing as a "bad" time to see this ancient city! Image Source. As gorgeous as Hokkaido is in winter, however, its beauty becomes even more apparent in summer. These Are the Most Beautiful Towns and Cities in Japan ASIA / JAPAN Take a walk around Kenroku-en Garden in Japan's beautiful Kanazawa City | Ian Dagnall / Alamy Stock Photo Jessica Dawdy 14 December 2022 View Japan is home to strikingly diverse landscapes, including volcanic mountains, flat farmlands and cherry blossom-lined cities. Gardens, Parks and Places to Visit in Paris on Foot - The New York Times You can get close to the Imperial Palace and see the Nijubashi Bridge or the East Gardens. Start your morning off with breakfast sushi at the world-famous . Castles, trains, gardens and fairy tales, Okayama is the city of all of these things. Hon-Dori shopping street Newish "Mazda Zoom Zoom" Baseball Stadium by Hiroshima Station Cheap and easy to navigate by rental bike or street car Miyajima, a nearby island and its temple Itsukushima-jinja, are world heritage sites and considered one of Japan's "top 3 scenic spots". a:link { Matsumoto-jo is one of Japans twelve original castles and is jet black. In exchange, you'll get plenty of almost rural Japanese charm, some of the best street food in Japan (kitsune udon or noodle soup with fried tofu is a staple here), and some of the best hip vintage wear and electronics shopping at better prices than Tokyo. At night, you can take a cable car up Mt. Near the Victims Memorial Cenotaph, youll find the Peace Museum, where you can see pictures and virtual renderings of the day, as well as hear survivor stories. Unlike most of the businesses in the area, it isnt a converted warehouse, but it was the first Western art museum in Japan. Or get away from it all in the rural areas of Hokkaido? Himeji is home to various temples and shrines, including Shoshazan Engyoji Temple, famed for its appearance in The Last Samurai film. These days, you can take a gondola ride on the willow-lined canal, or browse through the old storehouses. If you come in August, start in Aomori City to see the Nebuta Matsuri from the 2nd-7th. Stop by the Kite Museum, the movie animation Studio Ghibli Museum, or the grisly Parasitological Museum, or play arcade games at Gigo Sega Building. Walking through the Sakashitamon Gate, you can climb up to Tokugawas mausoleum. Matsue hosts the beautiful drum parade called Do Gyoretsu and Horanenya, a traditional Japanese boat festival. Osaka was my first city to visit in Japan. This article is more about the main regions to visit. From the heart of major destinations such as Tokyo to the smaller places to visit that tourists often skip, here's our list of the best cities in Japan. Its worth going to Hiroshima to learn the history of this very sad and moving part of history and to see how the city rose from the ashes to be the great cosmopolitan city that it is today. 20 Best Places to Visit in Colorado, According to a Local - Travel You could spend days camping and hiking through these areas, but you dont have to be an outdoorsy type to enjoy them. Kobe is also home to the Kobe Fashion Museum, the first of its kind in Japan, and the Maritime Museum, highlighting the importance of the sea in the city's growth and development. No matter when you go, the natural landscape of the mountain comes alive in the seasons. With snowy weather in winter and cool summers, its a great place to visit throughout the year. The 30-metre waterfall falls through Kitashinagawa with a V-shaped crack in the stone. Nara is best known as the home of Nara Park, where over 1,000 friendly, curious deer roam freely and often approach people at close range. Spring offers its own merits as the weather slowly reaches higher temperatures. If youre coming to Japan in summer and looking for a little fun in the sun, you can find some of the best beaches near Tokyo on Enoshima Island. Take the cable car to the top for an open view over the city and the natural spaces around it. Hiroshima is a Japanese city best known for its painful history: the atomic bomb that was dropped by the United States on August 6, 1945. From here, its just a hop, skip, and a jump to Tokyo Tower. Best cities to visit in Japan - Japan Rail Pass At the foot of the castle sits the Nagamachi Samurai district, where you can get a glimpse of the ancient lifestyle of samurai and their families. Hakone is easy to recommend as one of the best places to visit in Japan for first timers for the simple reason that its easy to get to from Tokyo and will give you the chance to enjoy the Japanese pastime of taking an Onsen (hot spring) bath. Visitors should also try the Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, a type of pancake filled with cabbage, bean sprouts and noodles, a fried egg, and sweet sauce. If you only have time to stop in one place in Kanazawa, dont miss your opportunity to see Kenrokuen Garden. Sadly, the world became aware of Hiroshima City when the atomic bomb fell on August 6th, 1945. The retro vibes and charming old streets are memorable with craft shops and known to be shooting spots for famed films. Check out the fun Manekineko or Lucky Cat Museum where more than 700 lucky cats were collected from all over Japan. During low tide, however, it's possible to walk up to the gate. Onomichi | Photo by Tanya Jones via Shutterstock. If you truly want to explore this unique small city, however, stay at least one night. A short walk away is the historic Nakamachi District, and you can visit one of Japan's largest wasabi farms in Matsumotos suburbs. But a few centuries ago, Kanazawa rivaled it in cultural achievements. Around the same time, French missionaries built Oura Tenshudo, Japan's oldest Catholic church. 17 Best Places to Visit in Japan | U.S. News Travel Both have scenic viewing areas that you can access by car. The area around the house is known as "samurai city," and features many shrines, ancient homes, and even a tiny fishing village. The (very) gradual change in season means the cherry blossoms in places like Matsumae Park and Goryokaku Fort dont bloom until May! Welcome to the cultural capital of Japan! Though better known as a port city, Kobe's picture-perfect location between the sea and the Rokko mountains is its best feature. What makes this remote village really special is that you can not only enjoy remarkable natural beauty, but also learn about the unique gassho-style of building, which has endured for centuries. Although Osaka doesn't have a lot of attractions in the city itself, as compared to Tokyo and Kyoto, it does have its own vibe that . Travel Stories Japan The top 10 places to visit in Japan Rebecca Milner Jan 31, 2023 6 min read From buzzing cities to serene forest walks, these are our favorite places to visit in Japan Taiyou Nomachi / Getty Images Visitors can find fine crafted memorabilia to take home from their travels. Your email address will not be published. 14 Japanese Cities To Visit Besides Tokyo And Kyoto - TheTravel Due to its location near the active volcano, Mount Aso, Kumamoto is also nicknamed the Land of Fire. Take a stroll along the Suizenji Jojuen, a picturesque Japanese garden, designed as the map of an ancient road with 53 stations from Tokyo to Kyoto. Head to Beppus theme park called Kijima Kogen Park, where the waiting time for rides are up until a maximum of 30 minutes. The Titan: The voyage to see the Titanic wreckage is eight days long, costs $250,000 and is open to passengers age 17 and older. Tokyo is the city that reflects the colors of Japan. Yokohama is a great stop for budget travelers. The remote mountains that span Gifu and Toyama Prefectures get heavy snowfalls that would be unliveable, if not for generations of engineering prowess. Best Places To See in Tokyo Japan 2023 - Japan Tours Nagasaki was one of the most important ports of entry for foreign traders, and you can see their mark to this day. Shiouji, with its Ohno Castle ruins. Unlike other major cities in Japan, Kyoto came out of WWII unscathed, and most of its historical and culturally significant sites have survived the centuries. Copyright 2018 All Japan Tours All Rights Reserved. You can explore the gorge from below by boat or above on hiking trails. Travelers particularly love going to Maruyama Park during the cherry blossom season, and to the Arashiyama district to see Tenryuji Temples garden surrounded by autumn leaves. Japan Last Updated 10 Amazing Cities to Visit in Japan By Alyssa Ochs | 2023-04-27 00:23:53 Our research is editorially independent but we may earn a commission for purchases made through our links. 9. What is submersible tourism? The Titanic expedition, explained. The magnificent ivory walls seem to become even brighter when cherry blossoms or maples color the grounds. For sightseeing locations that are gorgeous at any time of year, you cant go wrong by making a trip to Chusonji Temple. A city that was once devastated during World War II, Hiroshima is now known as a city of peace. This city is famously known for its various slopes and a cycling heaven for cyclists. 25 Best Summer Vacations Everyone Should Consider in 2023. Toshogu in Nikko | Photo by Luciano Mortula LGM via Shutterstock. Its best to spend at least 2-3 days to see the best of the city. The life-size and scaled models give you an immersive lesson on Tokyo's development from the 1600s to now. Osaka Castle is another great spot to explore - or you can jump on a Gozabune boat and just admire the 16th-century fortress from the water. Osaka, the second largest city in Japan and the birthplace of the much-loved street food culture, is a must-visit destination. There are so many things to see and do in Tokyo that you could never cover all of them in one week, much less a few days. Mount Koya is a profoundly significant religious site in Japan. That's because no matter what your interests are, you can find it here. Tokyo. The Dotonbori area is one of the best places in Osaka to take a food tour, but not the only one. It's celebrated at Gokoku Shrine, where over 6,000 lanterns are lit to welcome the spirits of the dead at the rhythm of taiko drumming. With something for everyone, the best cities in Japan are exhilarating to visit. Most beautiful winter destinations in Japan | Time Out Tokyo By Stephanie Rosenbloom. Love fashion, food, and fun? Zack Frank/500px/Getty Images. June 19, 2023. Although that's intriguing, it makes it a little overwhelming to build an itinerary around. It is also known as the city of Kobe beef, the best quality and most expensive wagyu beef in Japan. Many people visit this place during summer, surrounded by the flourishing green nature. At the food theme park Naniwa Kuishinbo, you can choose from over twenty restaurants in a 1960s atmosphere. It covers the route straight from Tokyo, and it's worth the experience. You can find a similar sculpture at the Benesse House, which is part art museum and part luxury hotel. Around 30 minutes away from Sapporo, Otaru is a small, historical, canal city nicknamed the Venice of Japan. When Hokkaido was colonized in the late 1800s, Otaru was a big trading and fishing port. Its where the famous Japanese fairy tale Momotaro (Peach Boy) took place. Check here to find places to stay in Kyoto. Kyomizu-dera temple by akarapong via Shutterstock. While this famous festival is celebrated all over Japan, the city of Fukuoka dedicates its celebrations to Japan's war dead, attracting people from all over the country. At the end of the long street, youll reach the colorful Dotonbori Canal, where hundreds of neon signs light up at night. For an unusual sightseeing experience, visit the entertainment district of Gion, where geishas walk the streets lined up with folk wooden houses. 1. Hitsujiyama Park - For An Enormous Sight. Osaka was my first city to visit in Japan. Now, you can see them at Jigokudani Monkey Park, where they're able to bathe in peace. Theres nothing like the view of Mount Fuji, but clouds cover her peak for most of the year. The most photogenic among them is the cheerily named Bloody Pond Hell, which is an eerie crimson color. 9 Best Places to Live in South Carolina - Travel + Leisure So that should give you a good idea of where to go and what to do for the best places to visit for first timers in Japan. In winter, her base and peak reach equilibrium, and youll be much more likely to see her come out! There are so many amazing places to visit in Japan, but the best time to go is in the springtime. Its main shopping street, Ichibangai, is lined up with clay-walled warehouse-styled buildings, displaying its history as a supplier of commodities to Tokyo, then known as Edo. "The big three". They employ elements such as reflective ponds, waterfalls, and tea houses where you can enjoy a cup of matcha. But if bathing doesnt interest you, check out the seven viewing hot springs and geysers known as the Hells of Beppu. Check here to find places to stay in Osaka. 12 most beautiful autumn destinations in Japan - Time Out The evening parades feature massive floats made from paper and red lamps. Sake lovers should sample the local sake tasting workshop at Kokoromi Standing Bar, as 95 percent of the sake is made in Hyogo. To see the third place, you need to leave the city for a short day trip to the village of Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with traditional houses that are over 250 years old. For a quiet escape, visit the all-marble Jain Temple, then climb the Kobe Port Tower as the sun goes down for 360-degree panoramic views over the lights of the city. However, if youre looking for a slightly different side to Japanese culture, as well as plenty of great beaches and island life, then Okinawa is a great place to visit. So, youre going to Japan for the first time and want to know the best places to visit in Japan for first timers? You can also explore the Benten Kutsu or Iwaya Caves or take in the view from the Sea Candle Observation Tower in the Samuel Cocking Garden. The Lee Ufan Museum, another Tadao Ando creation, opened in 2010 for the Setouchi Triennale festival. Toyotomi Hideyoshi constructed it to commemorate his mother. Hiroshima is where the first atomic bomb was dropped in World War 2 and therefore everything you see in Hiroshima is of modern construction. Were partial to Kiyomizudera Temple, Kinkauji, and Fushimi Inari Shrine, especially if its your first time to Japan. Osaka is known as the nations kitchen because some of the best Japanese food in the country can be found in the city. Best time to visit Japan - Lonely Planet - Lonely Planet 24 Unique & Best Places to Visit in Japan for Every Traveller Canal City Hakata has over 250 stores, a theater, cinemas, and game centers, and even its own canal running through the center of the complex. But when youre searching for the best places to go in Japan, it can get overwhelming! A metropolitan city with a striking resemblance to New York, Tokyo is a blend of urban . The historic Shirakawago Village is a powerful testament to humankinds ability to adapt to harsh environments. Luckily, it avoided devastating storms and wars over the years, and you can still see many ancient and well-preserved areas. Inside, youll find pieces by Claude Monet, James Turrell, and temporary exhibits. According to tradition, Kukai threw a ceremonial tool from China, and it landed where this temple complex now stands. Kenrokuen in Ishikawa prefecture is considered one of Japan's three great gardens. You can explore Nijo Castle and the former Imperial Palace. Accommodation: Top-Rated Places to Stay in Kyoto. It is no wonder that the city is filled with beautiful cathedrals and churches, as the Netherlands also brought religion to the city. Takayama | Photo by Vachira Sat via Shutterstock. As you approach the enormous entrance gates in Nara Park, wild shika deer will follow you begging for treats. From Naha, visitors can easily access various Okinawa islands and beaches as well as historical sites, including Shuri Castle and more. First time in Japan, suggestions for which cities to visit? Keep your tip to about 100 words. Hands down, the citys most well-known sightseeing destination is the prominent castle in the center of town. During the Edo Period, it was home to many artisans, merchants, carpenters and timber craftsmen, especially in Sannomachi. For those wanting to understand the dark history of the city, a stop at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is a must. Rent a bike and cycle along the Shimanami Kaido, the only connection from Honshu, Japans main island, to Shikoku. Both modern and traditional, Fukuoka is an international city. The 10 most kid-friendly places to see in Boston - BBC Travel Japan When is best time for a vacation to Japan? Im only listing a few of the main things to see in Tokyo as there are so many! This ancient city is surrounded by three mountains and the ocean and is considered a popular summer spot to escape from the Tokyo heat. Tokyo - Essence Of Japan. The capital city of the prefecture, Kumamoto is known for its sleek castle. The sophisticated fortifications of the grounds are one attraction, but the elegant appearance is the other. For many travelers, Japan is an exotic place with a history and culture unlike anywhere else in the world. They both also have exquisite gardens that reach their full glamor in November when the fall foliage turns their most brilliant colors. Osaka Castle is the main historical place to visit in Osaka, although it is a modern remake of the original, its still good to visit. Volunteer citizens tend the flowers and the managing facilities. Or, check out the Momofuku Ando Instant Ramen Museum, where you can make a customized cup of noodles! Its the buzzing heart of modern Tokyo and the famous Shibuya Crossing is there. Its also home to beloved wood carvings such as the Three Wise Monkeys and the Sleeping Cat. Art aficionados also cant miss Roppongi Hills, which has grown into the center of modern art culture in Japan. 8 most dangerous cities in the world - BBC Science Focus Magazine Toshogu, a luxuriously decorated shrine and mausoleum for Ieyasu Tokugawa, is one of the gems ofNikko. As you ferry across the Seto Inland Sea, Yayoi Kusamas Red Pumpkin statue pops out to welcome you. It also has various breathtaking naturescapes and historic sites, including Fukuoka Castle. In the same region, you can also see the Takasakiyama Monkey Park. The complex comprises of four buildings that architect Tadao Ando designed. Kenrokuen, Ishikawa. You can find works by multiple Japanese artists in the Annex, and an entire building dedicated to European-trained painter Kojima Torajiro. If you want to save, September can be a good time to visit, as is . Its on Miyajima Island (also known as Itsukushima Island) where you will find the Floating Tori Gate, one of the most photographed and best places to visit in Japan for first timers. Also, take the time to see the Sanjusangendos striking display of 1001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. One famed national treasure of Himeji is the beautifully preserved Himeji Castle. Theres more than one pink flower to see in Japan! The castle fell several times due to battles and natural disasters, and now houses a museum dedicated to its history. 10 Best Places to Visit this Summer | Uchi: Japan Real Estate 10 Best Cities In Japan, According to Tourists - Traveloka One of the world's larges arcades, it offers six floors of everything, from the oldest arcade games to virtual reality experiences. Hopefully it will inspire your next travel plans in Japan. 10 Best Cities To Visit In Japan: TripHobo For some of the best views of the city, climb up to the observation deck in Sapporo TV Tower, modeled after the Eiffel Tower. Tokyo is home to Japans royal family. End the day with a bit of street food which in Nara means something sweet. Nicknamed Little Edo, Kawagoe is only 30 minutes away from central Tokyo. Find out more here. 10 Best Cities to Visit in Japan - Men's Journal Sapporo City alone gets an average of 191 inches of snow every year, with most falling in January and February. In addition to great bird-watching, the islands also offer great hiking on volcanic riffs, unexpected encounters with grazing horses and cattle, and pristine beaches for swimming, kayaking, and simply relaxing away from the mainland. Matsushima Bay is one of Japans top three most scenic areas. Kamishikimi Kumano Imasu Shrine by reason520ha via Shutterstock. Nagoya Castle by f11photo via Shutterstock. Just outside Sapporo is another great viewpoint: Moiwayama mountain. Osaka is also home to many onsen (thermal baths), which might feel like a spa but are actually a unique cultural experience worth trying out. Also, if youre in Tokyo in November and December, stop by the Hama-Rikyu landscape garden to see fall foliage. Having a hard time finding a tour, please check our Group Tours Calender: Don't know which tour is suitable for you? During the Edo Period, picturesque Kurashiki was at the center of Japans rice distribution. The first stop for many foreign tourists is Japan's vibrant capital and it's not hard to see why. The second largest city in Hyogo after Kobe, Himeji is most well known for its samurai history. With more than 13 million residents to entertain, Tokyo has a lot going on. The Tohoku region sometimes goes overlooked by foreign tourists, but it most assuredly deserves your attention. One of the biggest festivals of the year, theSapporo Snow Festival shouldnt be missed either. Visitors can enjoy cups of tea inside of its traditional tatami rooms or stroll through the rock garden, which is the largest of its kind in Japan. Sapporo is Japan's best winter destination, known for its many ski resorts and the Sapporo Snow Festival at the beginning of February. Yokohama Minatomirai by ESB Professional via Shutterstock. You could spend years exploring the ancient Shinto and Buddhist temples, futuristic skyscrapers, and gastronomical delights that Japan has to offer and still have plenty left to see. Markedly different in design, the famous monk Shodo Shonin, who brought Buddhism to Nikko, established both. The country offers a full range of nature and culture, from subtropical beaches. The autumn leaves bloom in color around Lake Chuzenji in late October. 15 Best Cities to Visit in Japan (with Map) - Touropia The two most prominent buildings are the 45-meter-tall pagoda and Kondo Hall, where monks hold ceremonies. Sumo is one of the most traditional sports in Japan and I highly recommend seeing a match in the. If youre looking for one of the best places to go skiing in mainland Japan, look no further than here. Kyoto is the ultimate city in Japan for temples and is a must go to for places to visit in Japan for first timers for traditional Japanese culture. 12 Best Cities To Visit In Japan That Make Your Trip Worth It! Matsue Castle was built in the early 17th century, and it's a marvel of original wooden construction. If you love temples and shrines, make a stop in the Shibuya neighborhood to see Meiji Jingu. Beautiful all year round, its particularly attractive when the maple trees in the surrounding Nikko National Park change colors in mid to late October. Osaka. For more scenic areas, head to Miyazaki, where youll find one of Japans hidden gems. The colors start blossoming from the peaks of Yumoto Onsen and start descending in early October. Melbourne, Australia. Surrounded by temples, shrines and bamboo forests, there is truly an air of tranquility in the city. Start at the UNESCO World Heritage Park, where you can access three incredible sightseeing spots in one area. Now this is where to of to get a feel of ancient Japan. Visitors these days love the Hakone Open-Air Museum, where statues and sculptures complement the surrounding mountains and trees. Two hours northeast of Sendai is the famed Tashirojima Island, also known as Cat Island, which is inhabited by more than 100 cats. Aside from Tokyo, Osaka is another excellent city to enter Japan for the first time, especially for a backpacker as this is where many budget airlines fly to.