10 Best Places to Visit in Japan

Japan – The Land of The Rising Sun, is one of those unique miracles of places on earth where old meets new, tradition meets tech, and serene temples co-exist alongside neon-lit streets. World-renowned for being otherworldly when it comes to futuristic elements, the country promises inspiration, and overdelivers.

From the buzzing temperament of Tokyo to the breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji and the deep history of Hiroshima, every city is like a thoughtful curation in the feast that is Japan. Here, you come for the magic, and stay for the stories.

If you are planning a visit to Japan, now is the time to book well-designed Japan tour packages. Look for cheap flights to Tokyo well in advance as well, to secure the best deals.

For a headstart in planning your Japan itinerary, here is a list of the 10 best places to visit in Japan.

Tokyo
Kyoto
Mt. Fuji
Naoshima
Osaka
Hiroshima
Okinawa
Koya-san
Okayama
Yakushima
Wrapping Up: The 10 Best Places to Visit in Japan
Quick Summary – The Best Places to Visit in Japan
FAQs
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Tokyo

Every bit as whimsically futuristic as it seems on screens, Tokyo is Japan’s beating heart. The capital city is the perfect amalgamation of experiences that will make you see why Japan is so iconic.

Always pushing its boundaries and constantly evolving with the latest in everything, the city is a sprawling metropolis that bustles with shopping centers, arcades, quirky street fashion, the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world, and more.

The food in Tokyo is a whole other delicious story to tell.

Some of the must-witness sightings in Tokyo include the towering Tokyo Skytree, the historic Senso-ji temple, the Tokyo Tower, the iconic entertainment and pop culture hub Akihabara, and serene gardens like Shinjuku Gyoen.

Just for its whimsical urban aura, Tokyo is number one among the 10 best places to visit in Japan. Book your accommodation at one of the best hotels in Tokyo to explore the city comfortably.

Kyoto

Kyoto is as Japanese as it gets. If you are looking to experience the authentic and traditional taste of Japan, this is where you need to be. Having been the country’s imperial capital for more than a thousand years, Kyoto is home to the most number of temples and shrines. And they are not regular temples. They are historical masterpieces adorned with gold, silver, and scarlet. Some even have well-maintained gravel Zen gardens. Among some of the must visit places are Kinkaku-ji – a stunning pavilion coated entirely in gold leaf and Ryōan-ji – a tranquil monument with its exquisite Zen rock garden.

Apart from these exquisite temples, the tea culture here is something you must experience. Straight out of the pages you may have read about Japan, you will find traditional elegant tea houses and geishas dressed in brightly colored kimonos emerging from them. Coupled with performances of traditional music and dance, and kaiseki – Japanese Haute Cuisine, the feat would be one to remember.

This is why Kyoto is one of the 10 best places to visit in Japan.

Also Read: Cherry Blossom Season in Japan: Top Viewing Spots, Dates, & More

Mt. Fuji

Mt.Fuji is one of the most revered and classic landmarks of Japan. Just the sight of the perfectly cone-shaped peak – Japan’s highest peak from a distance, will stop you in your tracks.

Tourists from all over the world come to Japan to witness and experience the ascent and the breathtaking views from the summit. There is even a centuries-old tradition of pilgrimages atop the sacred volcano. For these reasons, it is indeed one of the top 10 best places to visit in Japan.

You can also enjoy views from the many other peaks around Mt. Fuji. Places like Hakone nearby from where you can see the majestic mountain among the clouds.

The official season to climb Mt. Fuji is from July to mid September. This is when the climatic conditions are most favourable with fewer chances for rainfall or snowfall.

Naoshima

Naoshima showcases the slower side of Japan. Best known for its tasteful art and architecture, the city is among the top 10 of Japan’s places to visit, primarily because of its unique blend of modern and rural elements.

Those looking for unique places to explore in Japan will hit the jackpot with Naoshima, as it has an interesting history of being an outcast ghost-town once upon a time. Artists and architects later revived the region with avant-garde buildings and structures such as museums, boutique hotels, and more. It is now a world-class hub for contemporary art in the country and one among the top 10 tourist places in Japan.

Many townsick Japanese even consider moving to Naoshima to live a slower life.

Osaka

Osaka is where Japan comes alive at night. While Tokyo claims activity and bustle in urban experiences in the country, Osaka tops the list when it comes to street food and nightlife. And this is why it is one of the top 10 best places to visit in Japan.

Brimming with neon lights, animated signage, digital displays, and active video screens, the city is a sight to behold at night. Tourists love going on Osaka street food tours, sampling the city’s signature specialties and stalls one after the next. People say Osaka has a soul, and a unique zest for life unlike other cities in the country.

While you’re on a street food spree, don’t miss the signature dish of the city – takoyaki, comprising grilled octopus dumplings.

If you are a food lover, Osaka will indeed be one of your favourites while visiting places in Japan.

Hiroshima

Hiroshima is one of the most wholesome and inspiring among the top tourist places in Japan. It is no secret that the city fell victim to the world’s most tragic disaster during World War II. While most of the city was mercilessly destroyed in the atom bomb attack, the spectacular remains of the incident still stand as a testimony to Japan’s resilience and relentless determination.

At the Peace Memorial Museum, you will discover the true extent of the attack’s impact through its exhibits. The park around the museum, and places like The Genbaku Dome – one of the only structures left standing after the attack, offer more heartbreaking opportunities for reflection.

For an informative tour on history, Hiroshima is one of Japan’s best places to visit. While you’re here, you can also take a quick ferry ride to Ōkunoshima – a small bunny island where you can see and interact with friendly rabbits hopping around.

Also Read: The Best Ryokans in Japan to Experience an Authentic Hospitality

Okinawa

Okinawa along with the rest of the southwest islands offers a distinct experience, contrasting the rest of Japan. This is because these islands once operated under their own Kingdom – the Ryūkyū Empire until Japan seized control in the 19th century. You will find interesting elements of difference in the culture, food, and architecture here, allowing you to experience a whole other side of the Land of The Rising Sun.

Okinawa is best known for its stunning beaches. A tropical archipelago that stands between Kyūshū and Taiwan, the island offers a range of spectacular white-sand beaches such as Kondoi Beach or Yonaha Maehama Beach, lined with palm trees and azure waters. In addition to enjoying the tropical paradise, you can also explore places like Shurijo Castle and the Southeast Botanical Gardens to learn more about the island.

Koya-san

Koya-san is another one of the best places to visit in Japan for tourists who enjoy absorbing the traditional side of the country. Best known for its temples and secluded atmosphere, the place feels exotic and otherworldly, especially when you enter any one of its hundred temple complexes.

The most prominent one among its temples is Oku-no-in. The temple itself appears majestic and spiritually telling, with its age-old moss-covered stupas and the winding cryptomeria-tree-lined paths that lead up to it. In addition to exploring the forests surrounding the temple, you can also engage in meditation and other activities along with the residing monks.

Koya-san is the best place to be if you wish to experience life like a monk. You can choose to stay at any of the temple lodgings, indulge in vegetarian Buddhist meals, enjoy communal onsen baths and wake up early to enjoy morning meditation with the other monks.

Okayama

Okayama is one of the 10 best places to visit in Japan, just for its gardens. The modern city is an exceptional destination for travellers seeking to experience Japan off the beaten path. It also blends scenic charm with rich history and folklore.

This is the city you come to during sakura season to witness cherry blossoms in full bloom without the crowds of Tokyo. This is also the city to learn more about art, history and culture. The Okayama Castle and the Ohara Museum of Art are bonuses to the already rich explorative experience in the city.

Home to Korakuen Garden – one of Japan’s three most beautiful landscape gardens, Okayama is also a gateway to Naoshima. Being the locale for the classic Japanese folktale of Momotaro, it also bears intermittent references to the Peach Boy throughout the city.

The “Land of Sunshine” as it is called, as if it weren’t magical enough, is also famous for high-quality fruits like white and yellow peaches and grapes.

Yakushima

Yakushima is a small island located off the coast of Kyūshū in the southern region. It is more of a fairytale world than an island, because here, you will find some of Japan’s last primeval forests. And these forests exude intrigue and mystery, much like an ancient tale’s setting.

The forest’s highlight is the yakusugi – the island’s ancient indigenous cedar tree, which possesses distinctly giant roots that protrude from the ground, much like monstrous tentacles. Among these trees are rich hiking trails with tough terrain, and moss-covered roots. The entire landscape is so whimsical that it is believed to have inspired the famous Studio Ghibli animated film, Princess Mononoke.

You can also pay a visit to the Yakusugi Museum, to learn more about the island – one of the best of Japan’s tourist places.

Also Read: Best Countries in the World to Visit: Chosen by the Biggest Travel Lovers in 2025!

Wrapping Up: The 10 Best Places to Visit in Japan

Starting from the bustling beating heart of the country Tokyo, to mysterious and fanciful Yakushima, Japan boasts some of the world’s greatest treasures. Whether you have a hip and happening urban tour in mind, a slow and explorative vacation, or an informative journey, Japan offers the perfect experiences for you. No matter what vibe you choose, you are guaranteed an unforgettable experience.

Before you book your holiday season Japan tour packages, apply for your Japan visa with a reliable provider of online visa services for 180+ countries, to avoid hassles. Book now to take advantage of early bird deals.

Quick Summary – The Best Places to Visit in Japan

Japan brims with exciting urban cityscapes, natural treasurers, historical sites, and cultural hubs. Its food is another delicious story to tell. With many wholesome experiences and destinations to offer, it can be overwhelming planning an itinerary. So for a head start, the top 10 best places to visit in Japan are Tokyo. Kyoto, Mt. Fuji, Naoshima, Osaka, Hiroshima, Okinawa, Koya-San, Okayama, and Yakushima.

FAQs

What is the prettiest place to visit in Japan?

Japan boasts many beautiful places, but some of the most popularly cited pretty places are natural landmarks Mt. Fuji and Kegon Waterfall. The Okinawa Islands are also considered very beautiful owing to its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and rich marine life.

Which part of Japan is best to go to?

Japan is home to an array of wonderful cities, rural towns, and islands that offer unique experiences. Every corner of the country offers numerous wonderful reasons to visit.

10 of the best places to visit in Japan are:

Tokyo
Kyoto
Mt. Fuji
Naoshima
Osaka
Hiroshima
Okinawa
Koya-San
Okayama
Yakushima

Is Kyoto or Tokyo better?

Both Kyoto and Tokyo offer distinct quintessentially Japanese experiences. While Kyoto is slower and offers a peak into Japan’s traditional side, Tokyo is much faster, more happening and promises the bustling urban cityscapes of the country. Neither is better than the other, as each city has its own must-visit attractions.

Is Japan visa free for Indians?

No, Japan is not visa free for Indians. Indian nationals are required to obtain a valid Japan visa that will allow you to tour the country for up to a fixed period of time as determined by the embassy or consulate.

Which city to go first in Japan?

Tokyo is often recommended as the most important place to visit in Japan for first-timers. It carries the essence of the country and offers a wholesome experience.

Dos and don’ts in Japan?

Some quick quick dos and don’ts in Japan are:

Do – be quiet when using public transportation
Don’t – eat while walking
Do – take your shoes off when entering indoors
Don’t – tip at restaurants
Do – keep any trash in your bags until you find a bin
Don’t – display affection publicly
Do – be respectful of traditions
Don’t – point

Which number is banned in Japan?

In Japan, the number 4 is avoided in many hospitals and apartments as it is considered unlucky. Its pronunciation “shi,” is a homophone for the word “death” in Japan, and hence the country is generally tetra phobic.

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