Best Places to Visit in Japan:
Describing Japan as a ‘backpack filled with surprises for every type of traveler’ would just be the right thing to do, thanks to the thousand shrines & temples, gorgeous gardens & palaces, the spectacular mountains, and other major attractions. It’s not only the technological wonders, but also the best places to visit in Japan that have highlighted the island nation on the map. And believe us, exploring each one of them is worth every dime.
So, if you’ve never wondered about visiting there, it’s about time that you do because these must visit places in Japan offer experiences, which you would have never had before. Get ready to impress yourself with one of the best destinations that give you a mesmerizing feeling. Known for its rich culture, you get to explore while on your trip to Japan.
Best Time To Visit Japan
Japan Road Trips
The best time to visit Japan is from March to May during the late spring. You can also plan a visit during late autumn, especially in the months from September to November for the best experiences. The temperature remains mild during this time with very little rainfall.
Are you looking for beautiful places in Japan? Here are the best places to visit in Japan that you should include on your itinerary to make the best of your trip. Scroll down to know what all awaits you in this scenic land!
1. Tokyo – Essence Of Japan
Tokyo
#1 of 10: Tokyo
Tokyo is the city that reflects the colors of Japan. In Japan, places to visit are endless, and exploring everything in one trip would always be impossible. But, the popular city of Tokyo still deserves the top spot in your itinerary, thanks to its anime culture and world-class attractions. And if the historical sites don’t impress you much, the city has also got a great culinary scene! This is undoubtedly amongst the best places to visit in Japan.
Top Attractions:
Tokyo Disneyland
Tokyo Skytree
Tokyo DisneySea
Best Things To Do:
Spend an evening near the Tokyo Tower in Japan
Shop in Odaiba
Witness the grandeur of the Meiji Shrine
Places to stay:
Guest House Trace
Manga Art Hotel
Khaosan Tokyo Samurai
Places to eat:
Tapas Molecular Bar
Ise Sueyoshi
Sometarō
How to reach: Tokyo is very well-connected by airways to the rest of the world, so plenty of airlines from India connect to the Narita Airport.
2. Kyoto – Sacred And Serene
Kyoto
#2 of 10: Kyoto
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:
Visit the Kiyomizu Temple
Explore the Nijo Castle
Visit the famous Kinkaku-ji
Places to stay:
Village Kyoto
Downtown Inn Kyoto
Santiago Guesthouse Kyoto
Places to eat in Kyoto:
Samurai Juku
Sugarhill Kyoto
Saishuan Shiraki
How to reach: Osaka International Airport is the closest airport in Kyoto which is approximately 1 hour from the city.
3. Nara – City Of Culture
Nara
#3 of 10: Nara
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
Places to stay:
Smile Hotel Nara
Super Hotel Lohas JR Nara Eki
Guesthouse Nara Komachi
Places to eat:
Kameya
Kura
Tonkatsu Ganko Nara
How to reach: Kansai International Airport is the closest airport to Nara and it takes around 1 and half hours to reach Nara.
4. Mt. Fuji – A Breathtaking Marvel
Mt. fuji
#4 of 10: Mt. Fuji
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:
Go for skiing
Visit the Arakurayama Sengen Park
Enjoy the views of Mt. Fuji from the Subashiri 5th Station
Places to stay:
Hatago Ichiya
Bself Fuji Villa
Hotel Mount Fuji
Places to eat:
Hoto Fudou
Tempura Restaurant Ninja
Tetsuyaki
How to reach: The nearest airport to Mount Fuji is the Shizuoka Airport which is 83.5 km away. You can hire a cab or take bus to reach Mt Fuji.
5. Hokkaido – Closer To Nature
Hokkaido
#5 of 10: Hokkaido
The abode of natural hot springs! Popular for its volcanoes, hot springs, and ski areas, this gorgeous Japanese island looks right out of a picture book. And it is because of its various attractions & experiences that it is an impeccable place to holiday with both your kids and significant other. Be it the beauty of the Blue Pond or the Zoo, you’d be left mesmerized. It is one of the most ideal places to visit in Japan during summer.
Top Attractions:
Asahiyama Zoo
Farm Tomita
Blue Pond
Best Things To Do:
Relax in the hot spring
Treat yourself with scrumptious seafood
Visit the famous national parks
Places to stay:
Yorkshire Farm
Hotel Park Hills Hokkaido
Puremiahoteru – CABIN – Obihiro
Places to eat:
Daruma
Hokkaido Cafe
Hokkaido Ramen Kyowakoku
How to reach: New Chitose Airport Sapporo is the closest airport to Hokkaido. You can find local taxis and cabs for a ride.
6. Ishigaki – Exotic Destination
Ishigaki
#6 of 10: Ishigaki
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:
Indulge in snorkeling
Relax on the beaches
Savour the Ishigaki Beef
Places to stay:
Ishigaki Guesthouse HIVE
Blue Cabin Ishigakijima
Ishigaki Seaside Hotel
Places to eat:
Sushi Taro
Usagiya
Akebono
How to reach: The Ishigaki Airport is the closest, just 18 km away. Local buses and taxis are available.
7. Hiroshima – Historically Significant City
Hiroshima
#7 of 10: Hiroshima
The city that beautifies Japan’s landscape! In spite of being known around the world for being a victim of the horrendous atomic bombings, Hiroshima continues to be one of the major places to see in Japan. And believe us, apart from the dedicated monuments and sites that reflect the history, the city also has other spellbinding attractions like the Itsukushima shrine. This is the most popular places in Japan.
Top Attractions:
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park & Museum
Hiroshima Castle
Itsukushima
Best Things To Do:
Try Okonomiyaki, the local delicacy
Visit the Mazda Museum
Capture pictures at the Shukkeien Garden
Places to stay:
K’s House Hiroshima
Grand Prince Hotel Hiroshima
Court Hotel Hiroshima
Places to eat:
Parco della Pace
Guttsuri-ann
Nagataya
How to reach: Iwakuni and Matsuyama airport are located 70 km away. Hire a cab, taxi or local bus to reach your destination.
8. Sapporo – Forget The Heat And Humidity
Sapporo
#8 of 10: Sapporo
A haven for beer and ski lovers! With cities like Sapporo, ‘what to see in Japan’ would never be your top concern. The city not only helps you escape the heat and humidity but also help you discover your winter wonderland during its famous Sapporo Annual Snow Festival. If not the gardens, then the huge snow sculptures would definitely steal your heart! This is one of the best places to see in Japan!
Top Attractions:
Moerenuma Park
Former Hokkaido Government Office
Mount Moiwa Observation Deck
Best Things To Do:
Visit the Sapporo Beer Museum
Party in Susukino
Indulge in local delicacies at the Curb Market
Places to stay:
The Stay Sapporo
Relief Sapporosusukino Hotel
Tmark City Hotel Sapporo
Places to eat:
Gotsubo Oyster Bar
Hyousetsu No Mon
Sapporo Beer Garden
How to reach: New Chitose Airport Sapporo is the closest 53 km away. Local taxis and cabs are in abundance to drop you at your destination.
9. Yakushima – Naturally Gifted
Yakushima
#9 of 10: Yakushima
An island of magical waterfalls! An island in Kagoshima Prefecture, Yakushima is famous for its wildlife, cedar forests, and waterfalls. If you’re someone who loves venturing into the wild for an experience of a lifetime, then this best place to visit in Japan is absolutely worth your time.
Top Attractions:
Senpirono Falls
Jōmon Sugi
Mt. Miyanoura
Best Things To Do:
Kayaking or canoeing in Anbo river
Witness the Oko-no-taki Waterfall
Watch the Loggerhead turtles lay eggs
Places to stay:
Seaside Hotel Yakushima
Guesthouse Yakushima
Places to eat:
Yakushima Curry House
Panorama
Wakadaisho
How to reach: Tanegashima airport is the closest to the city. Hire a cab, taxi or local bus to reach your destination.
10. Hakuba – For Adventurous Activities
Hakuba
#10 of 10: Hakuba
The 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 Pond
Places to stay:
Courtyard by Marriott Hakuba
Morino lodge
Hakuba Highland Hotel
Places to eat:
Raicho Lodge Madarao
B.O.S
Izakaya Kaz
