Shrinescherry blossomsMount Fujisushianimeand other cross-cultural icons blend modernity with ancient traditions in Japanmaking it definitely one of the world's most popular tourist destinations. Howevereach city offers a unique charm. Not only is it impossible to visit them all at oncebut it also makes choosing one a daunting task.
Relaxthis article is to set you free. Here is a list of the 10 best cities in Japan to visitalong with attractions and highlights. So let's embark together and immerse ourselves in Japan's allure and landscapes!
Takeaways for First-timers:
- TokyoOsakaand Kyoto are the best places to visit in Japan for first-timers if the trip is less than a week.
- It's recommended to visit other beautiful places in Japan such as OsakaHiroshimaand Nara for more than two weeks of travel.
- Might as well opt for a 9-day all-inclusive tour that covers mealsaccommodationand transportation to relieve the planning stressespecially if you travel with family or in a group.
Top 10 Best Cities in Japan to Visit
Each city in Japan offers a unique and travel experience. Some are modern and trendysome are traditional and quaintand others are focused on culinary delights. It is best to choose your destination based on your preferences. Here are the top 10 places to visit in Japan.
1. Kyoto: AncientCulturally Rich and Slow-paced
Kyoto is undoubtedly the best city in Japan to visit and enjoy traditional culture. As the former capitalit preserves a wealth of artifacts and historical landmarks from the Warring States period.
From Nijō Castle and Imperial Palace to Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine and Arashiyamathis journey will not only take you back in time to Japan's past but also allow you to relax and appreciate nature's gift in the lush bamboo grove.
If you're luckyyou might even run across geisha and maiko dressed in kimonoadding a serendipitous encounter with history.
Things to Do:
2-3 days to explore historical sitestaste traditional cuisineexperience samurai cultureand indulge in modern shopping in Nishiki Market districtetc.
Kinkakuji Temple2. Tokyo: BusyVibrant and Cosmopolitan
Even if you've never been to Japanyou've surely heard of Tokyo's iconic Tokyo Tower and Sensō-ji Temple. The two landmarks hint at the fact that Tokyo is a melting pot of a metropolisoffering modern and ancient attractions for everyone.
Tokyo Skytree and Shibuya Crossing will dazzle you with neon lights and bustling crowdswhile Akihabara and Ghibli Park can send you back to your childhood with manga vibes.
Of courseTokyo also has its share of traditional relics. Nikkō Tōshō-gūMeiji Jingu Shrineand Ryōgoku Kokugikan are all the best places to visit in Japan.
If you're unsure whether to visit Tokyo or Kyoto firstyou can check our post on Tokyo vs Kyoto: Differences in VibePricesCultureFood.
Things to Do:
2-4 days to visit traditional and new attractionsrelive your childhood at Disney and Ghibli Parkand shop in Shinjuku and Uenoetc.
Shibuya Urban3. Osaka: HospitableDeliciousand Easy Shopping
Osakathe second-largest cityis the best place to visit in Japan for young couples who love foodshoppingand nightlife.
It is home to many famous attractionsincluding Universal Studiosthe Nintendo World theme parkand the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukanone of the largest aquariums in the world.
If you want to experience Japanese culture in Osaka as wellYasaka ShrineHozenji Templeand the Tower of the Sun are must-visit spots. Howeverthe most alluring aspect of Osaka is its nightlifewhich you can enjoy in places like Shinsaibashi Shopping StreetKuromon Marketand Dotonbori. The latterin particularis filled with delicious food and beer at reasonable prices.
Things to Do:
2-3 days to savor delicious food like okonomiyakitakoyakiand gyozaenjoy drinks in retro Japanese barsand shop in bustling districtsetc.
Osaka CastleA Hassle-free Trip Plan to OsakaKyotoand Tokyo:
OsakaKyotoand Tokyo are the 3 best cities to visit in Japan. To make you explore all of them in one triphere's an 8-day Osaka-Kyoto-Tokyo Tour highly recommended by Japan Highlights. This plan includes a detailed itinerary and activity schedulewith food and accommodation arranged. It will alleviate your anxiety about international travel and language barriersallowing you to fully enjoy Japan's local nightlifevibrant scenesand attractions.
4. Hiroshima: HistoricBeautifuland Delicious
Hiroshima is a city that bears witness to World War II.
You can visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Parkthe Atomic Bomb Domeand the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum to mourn the ordinary people who perished in the warand learn about the history and impact.
Despite its tragic pastHiroshima is now one of the most beautiful cities to visit in Japan. It is enriched by castlestraditional gardensartand vintage trams.
AdditionallyHiroshima is also known for its delicious food. Oysters and okonomiyaki are local specialties that you must try.
Things to Do:
1 day to immerse yourself in the weight of historythe beauty of the cityand the flavor of local cuisine.
Hiroshima Peace Building Spring Cherry5. Nara: Time-honored and Full of Vigor
As a city steeped in history since the 8th centuryNara boasts UNESCO World Heritage sites. Among themTodai-ji Temple and Kofuku-ji Temple are particularly famous and worth visiting.
Beyond thatwhat might surprise you the most are the hundreds of tame Sika deer roaming Nara Park. You can try to feed them and capture some lively photos. If you're luckyyou might even see a deer bow its head in thanks!
NotablyNaranestled between Tokyo and Kyotois the best to visit in Japan on foot. It's also not far from Hiroshima and Osaka.
A Perfect Tip for the Top 6 Cities in Japan: 11-day Customized Japan Tour: KyotoTokyoOsakaHiroshimaand Nara.
Things to Do:
1 day to walk through the World Heritage sites and interact with the deer in Nara Park.
Feed Deers in Nara6. Kanazawa: CulturalArtisticand Tasty
If you want to find the best cities to visit in Japan besides Tokyo and KyotoKanazawa is a great choice. It's not as busy as Tokyobut it's also not crowdedand its history rivals Kyoto's.
In Kanazawayou can relax in geisha districts like Higashi Chaya and Kazuemachiand marvel at the changing seasons in Kenrokuen Garden. And don't miss the unique Ninja Templefilled with secret passages and trapsa disguised fortress.
Most importantlyKanazawa's seafood is incredibly freshmaking sushi there more delicious and free of any fishy taste.
Things to Do:
1-2 days to appreciate traditional Japanese architecturetea utensilslacquerwareand taste fresh seafood.
Geisha in Kanazawa7. Sapporo: RuralBeeryand Snow-white
As the capital of HokkaidoSapporo is undoubtedly one of the best cities in Japan to visit in winter and summer both.
Sapporo in winter is blanketed in snow. Despite the coldit is even more able to embody the image of mountains stretching like silver snakes. At the same timethe annual Snow and Ice Festival is heldwhere you can feast your eyes on a multitude of colorful sculptures.
As for summerSapporo is an excellent resort due to its high latitude. It's also the perfect time to enjoy local beer. Paired with Hokkaido- curryit's hard to imagine how relaxing and immersive it is.
Things to Do:
2-3 days to enjoy snowscapes in winter. Visit the Sapporo Beer Museum and taste more food and drinks in summer.
Snow Scenery in Sapporo8. Nagoya: Cutting-edge and Long-standing
Nagoya is not only the largest city in central Japanbut also a center for Japan's automotive and aerospace industries. Toyota MuseumToyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technologyand the SCMAGLEV and Railway Park all can give you a glimpse into the technological advancements of Nagoya and Japan as a whole.
HoweverNagoya offers more than that. It is also a place full of Japanese Warring States culture. Thereforerenowned historical sites such as Nagoya CastleTokugawa Art MuseumOsu Kannon Templeand Atsuta Shrine are also plentiful in this city.
Things to Do:
1-2 days to immerse in places of interest and trace Japan's automotive and aerospace history and development.
9. Kobe: MontanicScenicand Cozey
Kobesituated between Osaka and Hiroshimais one of the most beautiful places to visit in Japan yet is often overlooked by people.
Kobe is not very large with mountains surrounded. Among themMount Rokko's fame spreads far enough.
Don't worry the rugged terrain will dull your sightseeingas Kobe boasts a vibrant nightlife with top-notch seaside attractions and a bustling Chinatown.
You can also soak in Arima Onsenone of Japan's top three hot springsto refresh yourself.
Things to Do:
1-2 days to capture mountain sceneryvisit Kobe Port and Chinatownand relax in hot springs.
Mount Rokko in Kobe10. Takayama: QuaintRusticand Sake-fragrant
The final recommendation in the list of the top 10 places to visit in Japan is Takayama. Located in the Japanese AlpsTakayama is a charming small town. Its streets are lined with traditional wooden structuresespecially on Sanmachi Streetwhich seems to step back in time to Japan's Edo period (1603-1868).
Takayama also boasts a rich sake brewing tradition. Embark on a brewery tour to savor the unique flavors of this exquisite rice wine firsthand.
If you plan to visit during spring or autumndon't miss the vibrant Takayama Festival. Decorated floatsdazzling costumesand attractive performances will absorb you in Japanese culture.
Things to Do:
1-2 days to walk among ancient buildings and savor the unique flavors of Japanese sake and its rich culture.
Streets in Takayama are lined with traditional wooden structuresMore to Explore
- How to Plan A Great Trip to Japan: A Full Guide
- Best Time to Visit Japan: When to Go & When to Avoid
Enjoy Your Trip to Japan
These are the 10 best cities to visit in Japan. Metropolises blend the old and the newfeaturing traditional traces as well as modern nightlife. The smaller towns are tucked awayslow-paced but uniquely charming.
No matter what you chooseyou will deeply experience Japanese culture and satisfy your palate with local delicacies. Howevernote that a perfect trip relies on perfect planning. We hope this post helps make your itinerary and time planning easier.
Design Your Perfect Japan Trip:
With our pick of Japan's top 10 citiesyou may know the best places to explore in Japan. But start with which one? Click here to plan a unique Japan trip with our experienced experts!
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