Japan is an incredible country that features a blend of modern and laid-back traditions. On one hand, are the metropolitan cities such as Tokyo, while on the other hand is the serenity of the laid-back places like Tohoku.
Japan offers a blend of temples and shrines to mountains, gardens, palaces, and skyscrapers.
Some of the places to visit in Japan include Osaka, Tokyo, Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, Kinkakuji Temple, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum.
The best time to visit Japan is spring, which is March to May, and autumn, which is September to November.
This is the time when you can best have a view of the delicate cherry blossoms, and make meaningful memories. So, let us explore more and unveil the best of Japan!
Best Places To Visit In Japan
1. Tokyo
The city of Tokyo particularly represents Japan. Tokyo is one of the most favored cities when traveling to Japan.
Be it the world-class attractions such as Tokyo Tower or Ueno Park, or the anime culture, Japan pleases everyone!
Furthermore, when you are in Tokyo, you can go on to fulfill your shopping and culinary desires. There is so much to buy and eat.
Top Attractions To Explore - Tokyo Tower, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Senso-ji Temple, Meiji Jingu Shrine, Asakusa, Ueno Park
Best Restaurants to Eat at- Bia, Kanjo, Bukhara
2. Kyoto
When one talks of shrines, gardens, and palaces, Kyoto is the city that tops all the major Japanese destinations. The sacred city of Kyoto is one of the best places to visit in Japan for every kind of tourist.
The city is located on the island of Honshu and features a true delight to the eyes, by reflecting garden views and bamboo forests. So, what are you waiting for? If you are a nature lover, then Kyoto should be on your list
Top Attractions To Explore- Nijo Castle, Kyoto Railway Museum, Sento Palace, Nishiki Market, Kyoto Imperial Palace
Best Restaurants to Eat at- Kyoen, Nikuryori Yama
3. Yokohama
Yokohama is the second most populous city in Japan. The interesting part of this city is that it is seen to be highly approachable, as well as affordable.
The sight of museums, the variety of shopping spots, as well as the architecture of Yokohama, are all appealing factors!
Top Attractions To Explore- Mitsubishi Minatomirai Industrial Museum, Cup Noodles Museum
Best Restaurants to Eat at- Garden house minatomirai, Nakame no Teppen Yokohama Minatomirai
4. Kanazawa
Kanazama is another fun city to explore in Japan. It is home to some of the country's best-preserved architecture which hails back to the period of Edo. From the famous Kanazawa Castle to the Seisonkaku Villa, every spot would make your trip worthwhile.
Furthermore, the Higashi Chaya is the largest of the three historical geisha entertainment districts in Kanazawa, and again a must-visit. The Kanazawa Cruise Terminal is another must-visit that holds occasional concerts and illumination events.
Top Attractions To Explore- Kenrokuen Garden, Myoryuji temple, Nagamachi Samurai District
Best Restaurants to Eat at- Tsubajin ,Tempura Koizumi,Sushi Ikuta, Sushi Kibatani, Mekumi
5. Nara
Your visit to Japan could not be totally fun without having a sight of the adorable deers in Nara. Nara stands to be one of the unmissable places to visit in Japan because of the way it connects tourists to Japanese culture.
Nara is located in the northern end of Nara Prefecture. It is home to shrines, monasteries, museums, and the famous Nara Park.
Top Attractions To Explore- Nara Park, Kasuga-Taisha, Ninja Museum of Igaryu
Best Restaurants to Eat at- Kitsune, Ristorante Borgo Konishi, Yakiniku Shinjo, Teppanyaki Sanga
6. Ishigaki Island
The famous Ishigaki Island is one of the best places to visit in Japan. If you are yearning for a soulful experience of cherry blossoms, then Ishigaki Island has to be your destination during blossom.
The frosted mountains and secluded beaches of the island would surely help you rejuvenate. Furthermore, the island gives you opportunities to engage in activities such as snorkeling, diving, and surfing.
Top Attractions To Explore- Kabira Bay, Taketomi Island, Ishigaki Limestone Cave
Best Restaurants to Eat at- Kunatsuyu, Kanihu, Kabira Park Chaya
7. Hiroshima
Looking for a good Japanese landscape view? Then, Hiroshima could be one of the top picks!
From savoring the culinary delicacies to Hiking, cycling, and ocean sports, there is a lot to do in Hiroshima. Moreover, Hiroshima encompasses some of the most splendid attractions, which makes it one of the best places to visit in Japan.
Top Attractions To Explore- Miyajima Island, Hiroshima Castle
Best Restaurants to Eat at- Nagata-ya, Ekohiiki, Tsuki Akari, Okkundou Mazemen
8. Fukuoka
Fukuoka is the oldest city in Japan and yet still never fails to express its colorful vibrance.
From the exciting Fukuoka Dome stadium to the interesting City Museum, and the high Fukuoka Tower, are profound attractions! Furthermore, you can have fun by visiting the local stalls and having a bowl of tonkatsu ramen.
Top Attractions To Explore- Ohori Park, Kushida Shrine, Hakata Station, Uminonakamichi Seaside Park
Best Restaurants to Eat at- Tempura Hirao (Tempura/Japanese cuisine), Mizutaki Nagano (Japanese cuisine), Ganso Nagahamaya (Ramen)
9. Osaka
Osaka offers plenty of experiences, like visiting the Kaiyukan Aquarium, going to Hozenji Temple, and a beer tasting and nightlife experience.
Osaka is a hub for arcades and eateries, making it a top culinary delight! So, if you are a foodie, this is the place for you in Japan.
Top Attractions To Explore- Osaka Castle, Dotonbori
Best Restaurants to Eat at- Giga Rabbit, Curry Yakumido
10. Tohoku
Tohoku is well known for its countryside, mountains, lakes, hot springs, and rice.
From navigating through historical places to unveiling the beauty of rural landscapes to embracing snow in wintertime, Tohoku is one of the best places to visit in Japan. So, what are you waiting for?
Top Attractions To Explore- Oirase Gorge, Chuson-ji Temple, Risshaku-ji Temple, Nebuta Museum Wa Rasse, Tsurugajo Castle
Best Restaurants to Eat at- Gyu Kaku Japanese BBQ, Napoli Pizza Kojikoji Station, Fujimi Kitchen
11. Hakone
How about experiencing hot springs in the backdrop of a view of Mount Fuji? Well then, Hakone is your ideal place to go!
The best part of Hakone is one of those year-round destinations that please tourists in almost every season! Furthermore, there are numerous events that one can be a part of when visiting Hakone.
Top Attractions To Explore- Choanji Temple, Cruise Lake Ashi, Gora Park, Craft Making at Crafthous
Best Restaurants to Eat at- Kikkaso, Sushi Sho, Moshiri-Soba Nakamura, Hakone Sengokubara Chinese Restaurant Taigen
12. Snow Monkey Park
Have you ever imagined wild monkeys bathing in a hot spring? Well, this may sound amusing, but how about actually seeing it?
This Snow Monkey Park is a unique nature park and one of the top tourist attractions.
Snow Monkey Park, also called Jigokudani Monkey Park is a part of the Joshinetsu Kogen National Park and is located in Yamanouchi, Nagano Prefecture, Japan.
Top Attractions To Explore (nearby by Snow Monkey Park)- Shiga Kogen, Shibu Onsen, Ryuoo Ski Park
Best Restaurants to Eat at- Restaurant Crystal Palace, Enza Cafe
13. Kobe
Kobe is a city on Osaka Bay in Japan and is highly famous for signature marbled beef and scenic mountain views.
Kode is famous for some of the best resorts such as Arima Onsen, where you can pause down and rejuvenate better! Thus, this fascinating city is surely one of the most fascinating places to visit in Japan.
Top Attractions To Explore- Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens, Kobe Harborland, Kobe Oji Zoo, Ikuta Shrine, Meriken Park, Mt. Maya
Best Restaurants to Eat at- Akashiyaki, Misodare Gyoza, Sobameshi, Takomesh
14. Nagoya
Nagoya is full of interesting attractions such as Nagoya Castle, Atsuta Jingu, the Toyota Museum, and the Tokugawa Art Museum.
The city is known for its ultra-modern highways and beautiful modern edifices. Furthermore, if you are into beverages then Asahi Breweries is one of the major Japanese beverage factories.
Top Attractions To Explore- Nagoya Castle, The Nagoya City Art Museum, The Atsuta Jingu Shrine, Meiji-mura Museum.
Best Restaurants to Eat at- Aurochs, Kappo Shinsuke, Sushi Hanakuruma, Sushi Ueda
15. Kawagoe
Kawagoe is most famous for its Little Edo district and renders a connection with history. In Kawagoe, you can visit numerous souvenir shops, eateries, and cafés, and cushions on the benches of shops that reflect the long history.
Furthermore, the Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine offers a chance for Instagram-worthy photo spots. Kawagoe Kita-in Temple, Kawagoe Matsuri Kaikanand Kawagoe Ichinoya are other places to visit here.
Top Attractions To Explore- Kitain Temple, Warehouse District, Honmaru Goten, Candy Alley, City Museum
Best Restaurants to Eat at- Daikoku-zushi, Cafe Torocco, Waryori Hanajin, Sukitei Yoshitora
Explore Japan with Visa2Fly
This Japan guide gives you an insight into historical places, natural beauty, and culinary delights of Japan. You can pick the places to visit and explore the vastness of Japan.
This being said, another thing to add is that you should timely apply for your Japan visa. A Japanese tourist visa(sticker) takes a processing time of 7-8 business days.
Make sure you plan early for a trip without hassles. So, pack your bags, embark on this unforgettable journey of Japan, and do not fail to create tlong-lasting memories.
