10 Must-Visit Tourist Gems in Japan

Written by Priyanka Kulkarni

It’s your first time planning a trip to Japan. Don’t know where to begin?

Here is a basic starter guide.

Top 10 Must-Visit Sites:

• Tokyo

• Kyoto

• Osaka

• Nara

• Hiroshima

• Hokkaido

• Mt. Fuji in Yamanashi

• Hakone

• Okinawa

• Kanazawa

Tokyo | 東京

Japan's bustling capital city offers a mix of modern skyscrapers, historic temples, and vibrant neighborhoods of Harajuku and Shinjuku.

1. Historic Asakusa district with Senso-ji Temple and Sky Tree

2. Bustling Shibuya Crossing, say hi to the loyal Hachiko Statue

3. The Iconic Tokyo Tower

Kyoto | 京都

Known for maintaining its traditional culture and beautiful temples.

1. Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of tori gates

2. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

3. Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Osaka |大阪

A dynamic city known for its delicious street food, lively entertainment districts, and historic landmarks.

1. Visit Osaka Castle, stroll through the bustling Dotonbori district, and enjoy panoramic views from the Umeda Sky Building

2. Osaka's Universal Studios Japan offers adrenaline-pumping roller coasters to immersive themed areas, it's a world-class entertainment destination for visitors of all ages

Hiroshima |広島

A city with a poignant history, Hiroshima and Nagasaki took the hit of the atomic bomb during World War 2 in August of 1945.

1. Peace Memorial Park and Museum, dedicated to the victims of the atomic bomb

2. Miyajima Island's iconic floating tori gate

Nara | 奈良

Famous for its friendly deers and ancient temples, Nara is a charming city near Kyoto.

1. Todai-ji Temple, which houses a giant Buddha statue

2. Nara Park, where visitors can interact with deer roaming freely.

Hokkaido |北海道

Japan's northernmost island is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities.

1. Sapporo: Enjoy vibrant city life, visit Odori Park in that iconic TV Tower, and experience the Sapporo Snow Festival in February

2. Otaru: Explore the historic canal area, shop for glassworks, and visit the Music Box Museum

3. Noboribetsu: Witness geothermal wonders at Jigokudani, relax in hot spring resorts, and immerse in the beauty of Hell Valley

Mt. Fuji in Yamanashi |富士山 in 山梨

Japan's highest peak and an iconic symbol of the country.

1. Visitors can admire the stunning views of Mount Fuji from nearby attractions such as the Five Lakes region, and the Chureito Pagoda

Mt. Fuji in Yamanashi |

A popular hot spring resort town located near Tokyo, Hakone offers breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, scenic hiking trails, and relaxing onsen (hot springs) experiences.

1. Hakone Open-Air Museum

2. Lake Ashi cruise

Okinawa Islands | 沖縄

Known for their tropical climate, pristine beaches, and rich cultural heritage, the Okinawa Islands offer a unique blend of Japanese and Ryukyuan culture.

1. Shuri Castle

2. Enjoy water activities like snorkeling and diving

Kanazawa | 金沢

A city renowned for its well-preserved Edo-era districts, beautifully landscaped gardens, and traditional tea houses.

1. Kenrokuen Garden

2. The historic Higashi Chaya District

3. Kanazawa Castle

These are just a few of Japan's countless tourist spots. Japan is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and modern metropolises. Japan has something for every traveler to enjoy, whether you're interested in history, nature, or modern urban culture.

Happy Travels!!

If you’d like to see other posts written by Priyanka Kulkarni, check out these links:

 Dubai with Kesari Tours

U.S. Adventure Tourism Market

Kashmir’s Great Lakes Trek

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