Japan is prevalent for its mixture of old and modern life. The traditional values of Japanese culture are well-represented in their custom, architecture, and arts. Meanwhile, Japan is also at the forefront of technological innovation and improvements. This is the actual reason why Japan is worth visiting and exploring. So, to help you get the best out of Japan, we have compiled a list of the top ten cities in Japan that you should go to for vacation. Check it out!
What are the best cities to visit in Japan?
- Tokyo
- Kyoto
- Hiroshima
- Osaka
- Nara
- Sapporo
- Fukuoka
- Takayama
- Kobe
- Nikko
Tokyo
Tokyo is absolutely one of the must-visit cities in Japan. As the capital city, Tokyo attracts millions of tourists annually. No wonder the city has millions of tourist attractions awaiting travelers like you to discover. Known for its state-of-the-art facilities, Tokyo offers you a lot of modern conveniences. That said, Tokyo offers a mix of traditional and modern sensations in the heart of the city’s tourism. So, you will not miss the traditional, authentic Japanese culture to experience.
There are a lot of things to do in Tokyo. Enjoy shopping in Shinjuku, and buy souvenirs for your friends and family back home. If you want something calm, you can go to the Sensoji Shrine, the oldest temple in Tokyo. Alternatively, if you are fond of Ghibli animations, spend your time feeling nostalgic in the Studio Ghibli Museum. At the end of the day, you will not get bored of visiting this city in Japan.
Best places to visit in Tokyo: Sensō-ji, Meiji Jingu, Tokyo Skytree, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Tokyo Tower, Imperial Palace, Tokyo National Museum, Ueno Park, Akihabara, Shinjuku, Shibuya, Harajuku, Edo-Tokyo Museum, Roppongi Hills, Ginza, Nakamise Shopping Street, and Inokashira Park.
Kyoto
Do you know that before Tokyo, Kyoto was an ancient capital city of Japan? Therefore, you can still see many historical buildings established throughout the city. In fact, Kyoto is home to many UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Most places that have made it to the list comprise ancient temples and castles. If you are fond of Japanese culture and history, this is the reason why you should put Kyoto on your list of cities in Japan to visit.
Besides visiting historical places, you should also enjoy its natural beauty. Head to the bamboo first of Arashiyama if you want somewhere tranquil. Or you can also visit some of the incredible hidden gems in Kyoto, such as Lake Biwa or Eikando Temple. There are also many beautiful gardens and shrines everywhere throughout the city for you to discover. Also, do not forget to try out its traditional street food in Nishiki Market.
Best places to visit in Kyoto: Kinkaku-ji, Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kiyomizu-dera, Nijō Castle, Kyoto Imperial Palace, Rengeoin Sanjusangendo, Nishiki Market, Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama, Higashiyama Jisho-ji, Ryōan-ji, Bamboo – Higashiyama Sanjo, Arashiyama, and Tenryū-ji Temple.
Hiroshima
Hiroshima is the right place if you want to learn about the dark history of Japan. After the Atomic Bomb Dome in 1945, many places throughout the city were destroyed, and many people lost their lives. If you want to know more about this historical moment, you can visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. In fact, there are also some remains of the atomic bomb that you can still see in this city, such as The A-bomb Dome, which survived the atomic bomb.
Apart from this saddening history, the city of Hiroshima offers many tourist attractions you can enjoy joyfully. Go to the Samurai Museum or visit other magnificent shrines and castles throughout the city. You will find the true Japanese heritage and learn more about it. Also, do not forget to try out the okonomiyaki in the Hiroshima version. This is a type of pancake filled with bean sprouts, cabbage, noodles, sweet sauce, and fried egg. You will love it!
Best places to visit in Hiroshima: Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, Peace Memorial Park, Atomic Bomb Dome, Shukkeien, Hiroshima Castle, Itsukushima Shrine, Children’s Peace Monument, Mitaki-dera, Hiroshima Museum of Art, and MuseumHiroshima National Peace Memorial Hall.
Osaka
Osaka is one of the best cities in Japan for your wanderlust desire. Why? Osaka is full of rural Japanese charm, where you can enjoy the best street food and some unique vintage wear. Moreover, you can also buy electronic stuff at a cheaper price in Osaka than in Tokyo. This port city is truly a mix of many touristic attractions in Japan. You can enjoy partying, sightseeing, and relaxing at the same time. Sounds pretty cool, right?
Moreover, do not forget to enjoy the onsen or thermal baths in Osaka. This city has plentiful onsens throughout the city, which you can enjoy and relax your body after strolling around the adorable city neighborhoods. Did we mention food? Yes. The third-largest city in Japan is also considered culinary heaven. Enjoy its mouth-watering food, like kitsune udon or noodle soup with fried tofu, which will make you want more and more.
Best places to visit in Osaka: Osaka Castle, Universal Studios Japan, Dotonbori, Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, Umeda Sky Building, Shitennoji, Tsutenkaku, Abeno Harukas, Shinsekai, Kuromon Ichiba Market, Osaka Castle Park, Sumiyoshi Taisha, Giant Ferris Wheel, and The National Museum of Art.
Nara
With only one hour away from Kyoto, do not forget to visit Nara. Nara is one of the best cities in Japan that you can enjoy for its tranquil small-town vibes and its beautiful nature. If you are an animal lover, visiting Nara Park is a must. You can get close to over 1,000 friendly deer roaming around the park. Be aware that these deer cannot be bothered or harmed because they have National Treasure Status. So, always be kind!
Besides its natural treasure, Nara is also home to one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Tōdai-ji Temple. The temple dates back to 752 CE and is also home to the largest bronze Buddha statue in Japan. Moreover, if you plan to visit Japan in spring, you can stop by Nara for a sakura viewing from Mount Wakakusa. The pink color of the flowers will enchant you forever, so you do not want to go back home.
Best places to visit in Nara: Tōdai-ji, Nara Park, Kasuga-taisha, Kōfuku-ji, Hōryū-ji, Yakushi-ji Temple, Hase-dera, Nara National Museum, Isui-en Garden and Neiraku Museum of Art, Tōshōdai-ji, Todai-ji Nigatsudo, Todai-ji Daibutsuden, Mount Wakakusa, Gangoji, and Heijō Palace Remains.
Sapporo
If you see the best winter destination, Sapporo is one of the many cities in Japan that offers an incredible winter experience. There are a lot of many ski resorts in this city located on Hokkaido Island. Also, do not miss out on the Sapporo Snow Festival at the beginning of February. This winter festival is among the top worldwide festivals, where you can witness many ice artworks, such as ice castles and statues illuminated with colorful lights during the night.
The city is also not to be forgotten. Go on a tour of the Ishiya Chocolate Factory and savor their special white chocolate. What a perfect culinary experience, right? In addition, take a walk around the Historical Village of Hokkaido. If you are more into outdoor activities, you can also hike to Moiwayama Mountain. Do not fancy hiking? Do not worry. There is a cable car to take you to the top of the mountain so you can see the scenic views of Sapporo from above.
Best places to visit in Sapporo: Parc Odori, Sapporo Beer Museum, Sapporo TV Tower, Moerenuma Park, Sapporo Clock Tower, Hokkaido Jingu, Shiroikoibito Park, Historical Village of Hokkaido, Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort, Mt. Moiwa, Sapporo City Maruyama Zoo, and Takino Suzuran Hillside Park.
Fukuoka
Looking for a beach vacation? Fukuoka is one of the must-visit cities in Japan for its beautiful beaches. Sit on the coastline and get your skin tan with your friends. Sounds like a perfect summer getaway, right? So, you should definitely go to Fukuoka for a summer vacation! Moreover, do not miss out on the Mitama Festival while you are in Fukuoka during the summer. Join others in celebrating this summer festival, where over 6,000 lanterns are lit at Gokoku Shrine.
Spending a vacation in Fukuoka is not complete without enjoying its tourist attractions. Take a stroll through Canal City Hakata and immerse yourself in over 250 stores, cinemas, a theater, and game centers. Do not forget to buy some souvenirs in this place. Looking for some natural destinations? You can go hiking to Mount Hiko and Mount Shioujji, or take a cable car to Mount Sarakura. Above, you can see the perfect views of Fukuoka’s magnificent city lights.
Best places to visit in Fukuoka: Ohori Park, Fukuoka Tower, Kushida-jinja, Marine World, Uminonakamichi Seaside Park, Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, Hakozaki Shrine, Nanzoin, Fukuoka City Museum, Maizuru Park, Fukuoka Art Museum, Sumiyoshi Jinja, Tochoji Temple, and Nokonoshima Island Park.
Takayama
Located in the heart of the Japanese Alps, Takayama is also one of the best cities in Japan to experience the best winter vacation. Why? This small town receives heavy snow during the winter, making it look like a magical place where Santa Claus lives with their elves. Its traditional houses throughout the city date back to the Edo Period, and many are well-preserved historical buildings. Imagine how beautiful it can be when heavy snow covers those thatched-roof houses.
Even more, you can also stay at those traditional houses because many are open for accommodation. Do not also forget to enjoy the tea ceremonies provided by the hosts. Savor their authentic local cuisine while you are in Takayama, which is absolutely delicious. This way, you can experience slow travel in Japan like a local. Lastly, do not forget to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Shirakawa-go, one of the world’s most beautiful cities to visit during the winter.
Best places to visit in Takayama: Takayama Jinya, Hida no Sato, Sanmachi Suji, Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine, Shinhotaka Ropeway, Shirakawa-go, Takayama Matsuri Yatai Kaikan, Hida Kokubunji Temple, Yoshijima Heritage House, Takayama Shōwa-kan Museum, Kamikochi, and Miyagawa Morning Market.
Kobe
Kobe is one of the port cities in Japan, offering a picture-perfect combination between the sea and the mountain in the background. Mount Rokko is just some steps away from taking an afternoon hike. You can also enjoy the stunning views of the nearby Nunobiki Falls. It seems like a perfect summer destination, right? So, if you are a nature lover, going to Kobe is one of the must things to do in Japan. It will be worth the money and time!
Moreover, Kobe is also known as a food heaven. Have you ever heard of Kobe beef? The world-famous food that is an origin in Kobe, just like its name suggests. Grab a table at the local restaurant and try out this flavorsome cuisine. Of course, do not forget about seafood since the port city of Kobe has a lot to offer when it comes to it. Once you finish your meal, take a stroll along the harbor. You will get a view of a beautiful modern skyline shining after dark.
Best places to visit in Kobe: Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge, Kobe Harborland, Kobe Chinatown Nankin-machi, Kobe Port Tower, Meriken Park, Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens, Kobe Ōji Zoo, Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art, Nunobiki Waterfall, Ikuta Jinja, Mount Maya, and Kitano Ijinkan-Gai.
Nikko
Although Nikko is one of the smallest cities in Japan, it still offers a lot to offer when it comes to tourism. Nikko is encircled by the Japanese Alps, leaving it with a beautiful mountainous area perfect for outdoor adventure. There is a lot of natural scenery galore, which you can explore by hiking. In addition, do not forget to take a scenic boat tour along the Kinugawa River. It will take you to see Nikko from another angle.
Apart from healing in nature, we also recommend you go temple hopping. There are a lot of beautiful temples. So, if you seek some spiritual insights, you should go to those temples. Moreover, Nikko is very serene, meaning it is a perfect place if you want to escape the city life’s hustle and bustle. People also said that Nikko is one of the best-hidden gems in Japan. Therefore, you will definitely enjoy this place if you fancy somewhere quiet for solitude.
Best places to visit in Nikko: Kegon Falls, Nikkō Tōshō-gū, Rin-no-ji Treasure House, Nikko Futarasan jinja, Ryuzu Falls, Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura, Senjogahara, Nikko Tamozawa Imperial Villa, Kanmangafuchi Abyss, Yudaki Falls, Lake Chūzenji, Shinkyo Bridge, Tobu World Square, and Mount Nantai.
In your opinion, which one of those top 10 cities in Japan for traveling has intrigued you to explore? Our answer is all of them! At the end of the day, Japan is always an option for vacation in all seasons. There is a lot to explore and learn from Japan. So, what are you waiting for? Visit Japan with JoinMyTrip, and let our experienced TripLeaders guide you through the most exciting journey you will get in Japan!