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Known as the Land of the Rising Sun, Japan civilization dates back 30,000 years. Today, the archipelago seamlessly blends its rich history with its ultra-modern present. And while the capital, Tokyo, is a must-visit for beginners, Japan has a lot more to offer travelers of all types. U.S. News takes into account cultural attractions, culinary options, and accessibility (among other factors) to give you the best places to visit in Japan. (Note: Some of the destinations below may be affected by the coronavirus outbreak. Contact the CDC and the US Department of State before traveling.)
Kyoto
#1 Best Places to Visit in Japan
Tourists most interested in Japanese history and traditions should head to Kyoto. Located in the center of archipelago, Kyoto has already been considered the cultural capital of Japan. Here, you’ll find more than 1,000 Buddhist temples and over 400 Shinto shrines, including 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites. You can also stroll through geisha districts like Gion and Miyagawacho, admire classic wooden architecture, and visit traditional teahouses before visiting more modern attractions, such as the Kyoto Aquarium.
Tokyo
#2 Best Places to Visit in Japan
This metropolis is a feast for the senses. Neighborhoods like Ginza and Akihabara are bustling with flickering lights and larger-than-life shopping, while Meiji Shrine and the Imperial Palace give you a glimpse into Japan’s storied past. There are also a number of green spaces such as Shinjuku Gyoen National Park, which serves as a place to escape the chaotic concrete jungle. What’s more, Tokyo is regularly considered a top foodie city thanks in part to its abundance of Michelin-starred restaurants (the most you’ll find in any city in the world), so come hungry.
Osaka
#3 Best Places to Visit in Japan
Located about 35 miles southwest of Kyoto, this port city is well worth a visit for the food alone. One of the city’s most famous dishes, the delicious pancake-like okonomiyaki (which means “grill however you like” in Japanese), is made with dough, cabbage and meat of your choice and other toppings. Once you’ve had your fill of delicious local cuisine, explore Dotonbori’s striking surroundings, see a reconstructed 16th-century Osaka Castle or visit contemporary sights like Universal Studios Japan and the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan.
Hiroshima
#4 Best Places to Visit in Japan
For many, Hiroshima brings memories of war, as this city was the place where the world’s first atomic bombing took place in 1945. But today, Hiroshima is a city of peace, with monuments and memorials such as the Peace Memorial Park, Children’s Peace Monument and the UNESCO certified Atomic Bomb Dome. It is also a city of extraordinary beauty. Tourists can take a scenic walk through Shukkeien Park, peruse the exhibits at the Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art or visit Sandankyo Gorge to hike or boat past its beautiful waterfalls, caves and bays.
Nara
#5 Best Places to Visit in Japan
Japan’s first permanent capital is famous for being the site of the Great Buddha, a bronze Buddha statue over 50 feet tall. You’ll find this amazing national treasure at Todai-ji temple in Nara, which is the largest wooden structure in the world. While in the shrine grounds, explore the deer filled Nara Park and the ornate Kasuga Taisha shrine. Also save time by visiting Yakushiji Temple, a property considered one of the Seven Great Shrines of Nara.
Fukuoka
#6 Best Places to Visit in Japan
Located on Kyushu (Japan’s third largest island), Fukuoka offers tourists a mix of urban sprawl, sandy coastline, and ancient temples and shrines. Not-to-be-missed sights include Tochoji Temple – Japan’s largest wooden Buddha house – and Nokonoshima Island, which features fields of colorful flowers and panoramic views of the surrounding bay. Fukuoka is also known for its excellent ramen, so be sure to try this delicious dish at one of the many food stalls in the city.
Fuji mountain
#7 Best Places to Visit in Japan
The highest mountain in the country and one of its most iconic symbols is a popular destination for outdoor recreation. For centuries, Japanese artists and poets have been inspired by Mount Fuji’s nearly perfectly round shape. The Fuji Five Lakes region at the foot of this UNESCO World Heritage Site makes a great base for the thousands of hikers who visit each year. Enjoy the area museums and amusement park during the warm months. Or, arrive in winter to soak in the hot springs and ski the slopes of Mount Fuji.
Izu Peninsula
#8 Best Places to Visit in Japan
The peninsula, 62 miles southwest of Tokyo, is a great getaway from the busy city. It is popular with locals and tourists alike for its relaxing hot springs and stunning white sand beaches. These, along with various museums and ryokan (Japanese-style inns), can be found in cities like Atami and Shimoda on the east coast of the Izu Peninsula. During spring visits, tourists also want to see the vibrant Kawazu cherry blossoms. Meanwhile, on the south and west coasts, tourists will find coastlines that are rougher but equally beautiful, such as Dogashima.
Sapporo
#9 Best Places to Visit in Japan
The island capital of Hokkaido is perhaps most famous for its ties to the 1972 Winter Olympics. So, it’s no surprise that Sapporo’s main attraction is its winter activities. As well as featuring some of the best ski slopes, the city also hosts the Sapporo Snow Festival – with its huge and elaborate snow sculptures – every February. Plus, Sapporo offers a variety of delicious brews and bites. Learn about the city’s beers at Sapporo Beer Museum. Then, grab a bowl of ramen at the Susukino entertainment district. Have more than a sweet tooth? Visit the chocolate-themed Shiroi Koibito Park.
Nagasaki
#10 Best Places to Visit in Japan
Americans may simply associate the name Nagasaki with the dropping of the second atomic bomb during World War II, and today this city on the northwestern island of Kyushu pays homage to the devastation at tourist attractions such as the Nagasaki Peace Park and the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum. But you’ll also find a variety of fun outdoor attractions here. Head to Glover Garden or Mount Inasa for panoramic views. Also save time to stroll through Nagasaki Chinatown to shop and enjoy Chinese specialties in Japan’s oldest Chinatown.
Hakone
#11 Best Places to Visit in Japan
The Hakone Mountains are one of the most popular hot spring destinations in Japan. Located within Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, the city has 17 different hot springs, plus a hot spring amusement park with unique baths such as one with coffee and another with wine. Once you’re dry, visit one of Hakone’s art museums, such as the Hakone Open Air Museum, the Okada Museum of Art, or the Hakone Museum of Art. No vacation in Hakone would be complete without enjoying the spectacular views of Mount Fuji from Lake Ashinoko and the Komagatake Ropeway.
Kamakura
#12 Best Places to Visit in Japan
Overlooking Sagami Bay less than 38 miles southwest of Tokyo, Japan’s former political capital attracts culture hunters and outdoor enthusiasts in droves. Kamakura has many temples, shrines, and monuments, including a 36-foot statue of the Great Buddha of Kamakura. What’s more, the city offers three white sand beaches – Yuigahama, Zaimokuza and Koshigoe – where visitors can surf, paddle board and swim, among other activities. When it’s time to eat, head to Komachi-dori Street to try local dishes such as shirasu (raw or boiled anchovies, salted and dried) and candied peas.
Okinawa
#13 Best Places to Visit in Japan
Over 160 islands comprise Okinawa, a prime destination for snorkeling and diving. Japan’s prefecture offers close proximity to several coral reefs teeming with fish, manta rays and hammerhead sharks that you can access from beautiful beaches like those found on Okinawa’s Kerama Islands. The more than 20 islands are also an ideal place to spot the whales that migrate between January and March. Returning to the main island, visitors will find one of the largest aquariums in the world, several castle ruins, and a museum focused on Okinawa’s unique history and culture. And on Iriomote Island, adventurous travelers can hike to stunning waterfalls.
Kobe
#14 Best Places to Visit in Japan
After an earthquake that caused significant damage to the city in 1995, Kobe rebuilt itself into a thriving cosmopolitan city. You’ll want to remember to bring your appetite when you visit. Kobe is famous for its namesake beef, as well as its sake. It is also considered one of the most attractive cities in Japan, with beautiful architecture and beautiful green spaces such as Sorakuen Garden. For some of the best views of the city – especially at night – head to the top of the Kobe Port Tower or take the Shin-Kobe Ropeway. End your evening by exploring Kobe’s Chinatown or dining at one of Kobe Harborland’s waterfront restaurants.
Nikko
#15 Best Places to Visit in Japan
Nikko is the place to see lavish architecture surrounded by nature. Head to Nikko National Park, one of the oldest national parks in Japan, for an up-close look at the traditional buildings nestled along the mountains, lakes, waterfalls, and hot springs. The park is especially beautiful in the fall when the trees display bright shades of yellow, red, and orange. In total, you’ll find 103 UNESCO World Heritage-listed shrines and shrines in Nikko, including world-famous sites such as Toshogu Shrine and Rinnoji Temple.
Furano
#16 Best Places to Visit in Japan
Two of Furano’s biggest attractions are its slopes and flowers. In winter, the city’s 24 ski trails – designed to suit skiers of all levels – are covered in about 30 feet of powder. Meanwhile, summer is when Furano’s lavender fields are full of color. One of the best places to see flowers in bloom is Farm Tomita, where you can visit lavender fields on an open tractor cart and sample lavender-flavored treats such as tea and ice cream.
Niseko
#17 Best Places to Visit in Japan
Japan’s most famous ski area has many resorts with nearly 2,000 hectares of ski terrain. In fact, Niseko is such a popular place for skiing that winter sports fans from all over the world flock here to crush the powder. But there’s a lot more to do here than ski. Visitors can relax in one of the city’s several hot springs, go snowshoe or zip around Mount Niseko-Annupuri on a snowmobile. For those arriving in the summer, Niseko offers a golf course and opportunities for mountain biking, fishing and paddleboarding.
