Tourists Places: 10 Best Places to Visit in Japan | Top Tourist Attractions

8 min readJun 7, 2021

Originally published at https://www.touristsplaces.com.

Every traveller should go to Japan, in my opinion. It’s unlike everywhere else on the globe, with sleek skyscrapers, tranquil bamboo trees, neon arcades, and serene temples. Many first-time travellers to Japan are shocked to find that, in addition to being one of the world’s most modern developed countries, this comparatively small Asian country has a complex and interesting history dating back thousands of years.

Japan is rapidly becoming one of the world’s top travel destinations. Japan has holy Shinto shrines, majestic Buddhist temples, bygone trading footpaths, beautifully landscaped parks, eclectic themed pet cafes, varied art forms, restored architectural landmarks, and gastronomical delights. I’m sharing my bucket list of the 10 Best Places to visit in Japan.

So, if you’ve never considered going there, now is the time because these must-see sites in Japan promise experiences you’ve never had before. Prepare to be wowed by one of the best destinations that will leave you speechless. You will have the opportunity to discover Japan’s rich culture when on your journey there.

Here are the 10 best places to visit in Japan:

1. Mount Fuji

The ultimate adventurer’s paradise! Mt. Fuji, known around the world for providing the most exciting experience in Japan, is the ultimate destination to explore and unquestionably one of the best places to visit in Japan. If the official climbing season starts in July and finishes in September, you can admire the beauty from afar all year. It is one of our dream spots in Japan.

Mt. Fuji is a well-known icon of beauty in and around Japan; it is not only a scenic beauty that draws visitors from all over the world, but it is also a cultural landmark of Japan.

Mount Fuji has been revered in art and literature for decades, and it is now considered such a significant landmark that UNESCO acknowledged its world cultural importance in 2013. Mount Fuji, which is part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, is climbed by over a million people each summer as a pilgrimage that culminates in seeing the sunrise from its summit.

2. Kyoto

If you only have time to visit one place in Japan, make it Kyoto. This is typical Japan as you dreamed it: geisha in vividly coloured kimonos emerging from wooden teahouses, bamboo woods, gold, silver, and scarlet temples and shrines, raked gravel Zen gardens, exquisite feasts served on lacquered dishes, graceful tea ceremonies, and markets brimming with intriguing but unidentifiable ingredients. This is definitely amongst the best places to visit in Japan.

Aside from the numerous religious buildings, Kyoto is also home to the stunning Nijo Castle, the former residence of the Tokugawa shoguns; Higashiyama, a well-preserved historic neighbourhood; and Gion, Kyoto’s popular geisha district. But Kyoto isn’t all about history; it also has a world-class aquarium and a Ninja Training Dojo where you can learn how to become a Japanese assassin.

Finally, no trip to Kyoto is complete without a visit to the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. This lovely grove of tall bamboo is just a few minutes walk from the town centre.

3. Tokyo

Travelers who enjoy meeting new people will enjoy Tokyo. The urban area of Japan’s capital is the most populous in the world. From spring cherry blossom viewing in traditional gardens to the Tuskiji fish market. From shrines to karaoke bars, Tokyo combines the old with the modern. It is also one of Japan’s 47 prefectures, with 23 central city wards and a number of districts, towns, and villages west of the city centre. Tokyo also includes the islands of Izu and Ogasawara.

Today, travellers to Tokyo have an almost endless selection of shopping, entertainment, music, and dining options. The heritage of the city can be appreciated in districts such as Asakusa, as well as in several excellent museums, old temples, and gardens. Contrary to popular belief, Tokyo has a variety of enticing green spaces both in the city centre and inside comparatively short train rides on its outskirts.

If Kyoto is the heart of traditional Japan, Tokyo is its new equivalent. Skyscrapers, crowded arcades, bustling pedestrian intersections, wild young fashions, and a plethora of wonderfully tasty restaurants can all be found here. You’ll have an incredible time in Tokyo if all you do is eat-even as vegetarians, we ate so well and it is one of the best places to visit in Japan.

4. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is located in the heart of Hiroshima and is devoted to the memory of Hiroshima, the world’s first nuclear-powered city. The memorial park was built in remembrance of the attack’s direct and indirect casualties.

The Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima is one of the city’s most famous features. And tourists who are not searching for it are likely to come across the vast park of over 120,000 square metres. Its leaves, lawns, and walking paths contrast sharply with the nearby downtown area and it is one of the best places to visit in Japan.

What remains of the old Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall is the A-Bomb Dome, also known as the Hiroshima Peace Memorial. The structure was used to support Hiroshima’s factories. It was one of the few structures that remained intact since the bomb detonated, and it still is today. The A-Bomb Dome, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a visible gateway to Hiroshima’s unique history.

5. Nara

Nara is a spectacularly beautiful city that is second only to Kyoto in terms of the wealth and majesty of its temples, shrines, and parks. Nara can be visited as a day trip from Kyoto or Osaka, but its beautiful districts and parks are well worth a few days of your time.

However, as the city’s influential Buddhist monasteries’ presence and political aspirations grew to pose a significant threat to the nation, the capital was relocated from Nara to Nagaoka in 784, and then to Kyoto a few years later.

Nara is less than an hour’s drive from both Kyoto and Osaka. Because of its history as Japan’s first permanent capital, the city is rich in historical treasures, including some of the country’s oldest and largest temples. Don’t miss it, it is one of the best places to visit in Japan.

Top tourist attractions in Nara are Horyuji temple, Todaiji Temple, Nara Park, Omizutori, Isuien Garden and Kasuga Taisha.

6. Osaka Castle

The Osaka Castle, one of the best places to visit in Osaka, was constructed in 1586 by a prominent Japanese warrior called Toyotomi Hideyoshi. The Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s largest castles, has been rebuilt many times over the centuries due to enemy damage. Osaka Castle, or “Osaka-jo” in Japanese, is without a doubt one of Japan’s most prominent landmarks, and with good reason. This five-story castle is one of the most visually stunning structures in the world, with a nearly 450-year history!

The massive five-story, 42-meter-tall key tower is a must-see during a tour. The tower, built on an intimidating 14-meter-tall stone foundation, houses a variety of exhibits illustrating the history of the castle and the region. Visit the top floor for spectacular views of Osaka, which are particularly appealing as the sunsets. Yes, sure it is one of the best places to visit in Japan.

The sheer scope of Japanese culture’s rich history is one of its most fascinating aspects — around the region, there are thousands of shrines, temples, and castles dating back literally hundreds of years, each with an interesting storey to tell. Year after year, visitors from Japan and around the world make pilgrimages to many of these cultural monuments to pay their respects, learn about Japanese culture, or simply admire Japan’s stunningly detailed architecture. Osaka Castle, or “Osaka-jo” in Japanese, is without a doubt one of Japan’s most prominent landmarks, and with good reason.

7. Takayama

The town that exudes old-world beauty! Takayama, located high in the mountains of Gifu, is one of the best places to visit in Japan. This is the place to go if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. With breathtaking attractions all over the place, you can easily feel the magic of old Japan here.

Takayama is a stunning small town on the outskirts of the Japan Alps and one of Japan’s best less-visited destinations. I enjoyed walking through the historic district, which was filled with traditional wooden homes, colourful shrines, perfectly formed trees, and bright red bridges across the river.

Takayama developed its own rich culture and traditions as a result of its isolated location, as demonstrated by the two famous festivals of Sanno Matsuri and Yahata Matsuri. Wide and lavishly painted floats march through the city, which is mysteriously lit up by lanterns, during the festivities. During the festivities, many people come to enjoy the vibrant environment and atmosphere.

8. Shibuya

The famed “Scramble Crossing” near Shibuya Station is without a doubt one of Tokyo’s most recognisable landmarks. On a typical weekday, this busy intersection has up to 2.8 million people walking through it. Yes, 2.8 million people a day! If you’re trying to take the right selfie in the middle of the crossing, make sure you get to the other side before the traffic lights turn red!

Shibuya is a haven for youth fashion and culture, and its streets are the cradle of many fashion and entertainment trends in Japan. There are over a dozen large department store branches in the city that appeal to all kinds of customers. Tokyu and Seibu, two rival companies, own the majority of the area’s big retail and apparel stores. Without a doubt, this is one of the best places to visit in Japan.

To explore the city, we suggest getting lost in Shibuya’s streets, as the neighbourhood is full of activities and discoveries. It all begins with a visit to the massive Shibuya station, from where tourists can enjoy a view of the iconic crossing, which performs a choreography punctuated by traffic lights. Thousands of passers-by congregate there, under the glare of large screens and in front of parked vehicles.

9. Ishigaki

The most famous travel destination in Japan! Ishigaki Island, named the most popular travel destination for 2021, is unquestionably one of the best places to visit in Japan. Despite its small scale, the island has no limits when it comes to providing exclusive experiences to its visitors and glamming up their stay in Japan. It has also been named one of the best places to visit in Japan during the cherry blossom season.

Ishigaki, located 1,250 miles (2,000 kilometres) south of Tokyo, does not have the shrines and temples that other Japanese cities do, but it does have an exciting nightlife for travellers who have energy left over from a day of beachcombing, water sports, or ascending Mount Nosoko.

10. Nikko

Nikko, nestled against the mountains of Tochigi Prefecture, is one of the most popular cultural destinations in eastern Japan. The Toshogu Shrine, where Tokugawa Ieyasu, the famed father of the Tokugawa shogunate, is enshrined, is the city’s main attraction. Other enchanting environments in Nikko includes Futarasan Shrine and the Kanmangafuchi Abyss, which should not be avoided.

Nikko, a temple town and UNESCO World Heritage Site in the mountains just several hours north of Tokyo, is a refreshing escape from the capital. The city is well-known for its vivid autumn colours and yes sure it is one of the best places to visit in Japan.

If you want to experience something new, go to Edo Wonderland, a theme park that transports you to the ancient era. If you’re asking, ‘places I should visit in Japan,’ don’t pass this one up!

This is my list of the 10 best places to visit in Japan. I hope this post gave you some suggestions for places to visit in Japan. You will have an unforgettable ride no matter where you plan to go. Also, do comment your bucket list of best places to visit in Japan.