Japan is the best travel destination in the world, in part because of how diverse it is—where else can you ride a futuristic bullet train to some of the oldest temples in the world? However, it is precisely this wide range of experiences that makes planning a trip to Japan a challenge for so many travelers.
Below, you’ll find what I consider the 10 best places to visit in Japan
1.Takayama
Takayama is an utterly gorgeous small town on the edge of the Japan Alps and one of the best less-visited places to go in Japan. I loved wandering the historic centre full of traditional wooden houses, colourful shrines, neatly shaped trees, and bright red bridges over the river.
In Takayama don’t miss:
- Wandering the old town in the early morning before the crowds arrive
- Buying delicious fruit from the morning markets
- Snacking on mitarashi-dango (rice balls grilled in soy) from a street stall
- Seeing the extravagant floats at the Festival Floats Exhibition Hall
- Visiting the Hida Folk Village to see traditional thatched houses
- Cycling through the countryside with Satoyama Experience
2.Kanazawa
Kanazawa is one of the best cities to visit in Japan, but few foreign tourists make it here. As Kyoto grows in popularity, consider turning to Kanazawa instead for a quieter place to experience geisha districts with preserved wooden buildings.
There is also one of the most beautiful gardens in the country, a stunning castle, and many art museums to explore.
In Kanazawa don’t miss:
- Wandering Kenroku-en Garden, one of the top three gardens in Japan
- Exploring the wooden teahouses of the geisha districts Higashi Chaya and the quieter Kazuemachi and Nishi Chaya
- Experiencing a traditional tea ceremony at the exquisite Gyokusen-en Garden
3. Tsumago
Tsumago is a picture-perfect traditional mountain village in the Kiso Valley. It is one of the best-preserved post towns in Japan and you feel like you’ve stepped back in time on the traffic-less streets of beautifully restored wooden inns.
During the Edo period 300 years ago, Tsumago was a stop on the Nakasendo Waybetween Kyoto and Edo (now Tokyo). You can hike part of this trail to the village of Magome in about two to three hours. Unfortunately, a typhoon prevented us doing this, but it’s supposed to be a scenic and easy walk
4. Kyoto – Sacred And Serene
The city of shrines, gardens & palaces! Of all the major Japan destinations, the sacred city of Kyoto is one of the best places to visit in Japan in spring irrespective of whether you are holidaying with your family or your partner. The iconic temples, shrines, palaces, gardens, and the bamboo forests are a treat to the eyes, and you cannot afford to miss it on your first trip.
Top Attractions In Kyoto:
- Kyoto Imperial Palace
- Philosopher’s Walk
- Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine
Best Things To Do In Kyoto:
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- Visit the Kiyomizu Temple
- Explore the Nijo Castle
- Visit the famous Kinkaku-ji
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5. Nara – City Of Culture
Home to adorable deers, temples & more! No list of the top Japan attractions can ever be complete without including Nara in it. Home to many shrines, monasteries, museums, and the famous Nara Park, this city is where you need to be to get familiarized with the famed Japanese culture and traditions. It definitely features on the list of unmissable places to visit in Japan.
Top Attractions:
- Nara Park
- Kasuga-taisha
- Ninja Museum of Igaryu
Best Things To Do:
- Visit the Isuien Garden
- Befriend the deers at the Nara-koen Park
- Explore the Nara National Museum
6. Mt. Fuji – A Breathtaking Marvel
The paradise for adventure seekers! Renowned around the world for offering the most thrilling experience in Japan, Mt. Fuji is the ultimate place to visit and definitely one of the most romantic places in Japan. While the official climbing season begins from July and ends in September, you can witness the beauty from a distance throughout the year. It is one of our most favorite places in Japan. Needless to say, this place ought to be on your list!
Top Attractions:
- Mount Tenjo
- Chureito Pagoda
- Fujiyoshida Sengen Shrine
Best Things To Do:
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- Go for skiing
- Visit the Arakurayama Sengen Park
- Enjoy the views of Mt. Fuji from the Subashiri 5th Statio
7. Ishigaki – Exotic Destination
The most trending travel spot in Japan! Voted as the most trending travel spot for 2022, the Ishigaki Island is definitely amongst the best places to visit in Japan. Despite its size, the island has no limit when it comes to offering unique experiences to its tourists, and glamming up their holiday in the Japanese land. It has been also voted as the best places to visit in Japan in cherry blossom season.
Top Attractions:
- Kabira Bay
- Taketomi Island
- Ishigaki Limestone Cave
Best Things To Do:
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- Indulge in snorkeling
- Relax on the beaches
- Savour the Ishigaki Beef
8. Osaka – A Cultural Delight
With the best shopping arcades, eateries that offer incredible food, and the top nightlife hotspots in the city, Osaka is one of the major places to go in Japan. Believe us, it would not only pamper the foodie or party lover in you, but also the die-hard tourist who loves witnessing the wonders of every place he or she visits. This is most preferred places to visit in japan for first timers!
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Top Attractions In Osaka:
- Universal Studios Japan
- Osaka Castle
- Dotonbori
Best Things To Do In Osaka:
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- Visit the Kaiyukan Aquarium
- Visit the Hozenji Temple
- Go beer tasting and partying at nigh
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9. Hakuba – For Adventurous Activities
he ultimate winter wonderland! Situated amidst the Japanese Alps, right outside the city of Nagano, Hakuba is a village cum famous winter sports hub. The various mountain resorts that offer incredible skiing, snowboarding, and hiking experiences make the city a perfect place for including it into your Japan sightseeing tour. Undoubtedly, it is considered to be one of the most famous places in Japan.
Top Attractions:
- Mt. Shirouma
- Hakuba Happoone Winter Resort
- Lake Aoki
Best Things To Do:
- Ski at the Cortina Resort
- Visit Hakuba 47 Winter Sports Park
- Hike to the Happo Pon
10. Hakone
Hakone is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan. It’s located just a few hours from Tokyo, and it’s easy to get to as a day trip from the big city
Hakone is known for its hot springs, and there are plenty of other activities to enjoy in the area too. You can visit the boiling sulfur pits by ropeway, sail around Lake Ashi in pirate ships, or enjoy a mountain view from the cable car.
