Last Updated on February 24, 2023 by Jim Ferri
Estimated reading time: 8 minutes
By Jim Ferri
The most popular places to visit in Japan provide some memorable experiences. Whether it’s the pop culture you encounter on the streets of Tokyo or the ancient one you experience in Kyoto, you quickly realize Japan is a country of astonishing disparities. So much, in fact, you can find it both weird and wonderful simultaneously.
From its neon-painted cities to its mountain-dappled countryside, Japan is a unique place. It’s also a country relatively easy to travel about since its famous bullet trains link major population areas. Best of all, Japan is easily accessible from just about anywhere in the world.
Less Costly Than Some Other Destinations
Surprisingly, Japan can be less expensive than many other major destinations, although you must pay a small tourist tax to enter. In addition, public transportation is often convenient, safe, and cost-effective. That’s important if you’re on a budget. On the other hand, the 100 or so railway lines in Tokyo alone can prove a bit daunting, but overall, train travel about the country is excellent, some even on luxury trains. It’s apparent Japan will likely remain at the top of travelers’ wish lists for a long time.
If you plan to visit Japan, you’ll find the country fascinating and the people well-mannered. However, to help you plan, consider these ten popular places to visit in Japan that have been intriguing travelers for centuries.
Table of Contents
Tokyo, Capital City of Japan
Japan’s capital, with its mixture of traditional and modern urban life, is the most popular tourist destination in the country. It’s also the top place to visit in Japan. Sensoji Temple is one of its iconic historical sites, and the Imperial Palace provides a traditional and royal air. Furthermore, the city’s Ginza, the equivalent of New York’s Madison Avenue, is world-famous. Also famous is the Harajuku Japanese-teen street fashion that influences the international fashion industry.
While you’ll find plenty of authentic Japanese dining in Tokyo, you’ll also find top-quality hotels and international restaurants. Tokyoites have a discriminating palate for top-quality international cuisines, including Italian, Chinese, French, etc. Moreover, you’ll find Sushi restaurants plentiful in the outer market of the famous Tsukiji Fishmarket.
Kyoto, a Popular Favorite with International Travelers
According to the Japan National Tourism Organization, Kyoto is an exceptionally popular place in Japan for foreign visitors. The ancient capital is a city that embodies all that people think of regarding ancient Japanese traditions.
That means you’ll see centuries-old temples, ryokans (traditional Japanese inns), tea houses, geisha, etc. As you might suspect, all are ancient and authentic traditions. In addition, Kyoto’s cityscape is well-maintained, and visitors can participate in many cultural workshops.
Be aware, however, that Kyoto has banned photography of geisha on certain streets due to the behavior of some tourists.
Kanagawa
Understandably, the name Kanagawa may not be very familiar to American tourists. It is, however, the prefecture where Yokohama (Tokyo’s neighboring city) and Kamakura (a historic town along the coast) are located. A giant Buddha statue makes it an attractive and accessible destination for those who stay in Tokyo (just an hour or so away by train).
In addition, many travelers come to stroll between temples along the calm beaches. Hakone, also in the Kanagawa prefecture, is one of the most popular places in Japan. It’s where people go for hot springs, ryokan, and the magnificent view of Mt. Fuji.
Osaka, Japan’s Foodie City
As the second largest city and a significant business travel destination, Osaka is the home of several major international companies. But in addition to business, Osakan culture is heavily focused on food. In fact, some lovers of Japanese cuisine view Osaka as the capital of an affordable dining spree, which ensures its place on the list of the most popular places in Japan! Outside the urban centers, pockets of tranquility are tucked away in the countryside.
https://www.umihotaru.com/en/
Chiba, Gateway to Japan
Just east of Tokyo, Chiba is where Japan’s gateway Narita International Airport is. The city of Narita, close to the airport, is sometimes visited as one of the popular places to get a “quick taste” of Japan during a layover.
Tokyo’s Disney Resort is also in Chiba, just across the border with Tokyo. In addition, the Tokyo Motor Show takes place in Makuhari Messe, one of the country’s largest and most popular convention centers.
Aichi
Known for traditional manufacturing, Aichi thus attracts many business travelers. Moreover, it’s also the home of Toyota Motors. Midway between Tokyo and Osaka is Nagoya, an important location for business conferences.
One of the reasons it’s among the most popular places in Japan is because it also attracts visitors with its castle, museum, and gardens.
Nara, the First Capital of Japan
Nara, another of the popular places to visit in Japan for travelers, is the very first capital of the country, even before Kyoto. Although the Nara era was less than 80 years long, the city is the birthplace of the fundamentals of Japanese tradition.
Despite an apparent Chinese influence in architecture, UNESCO designated Nara’s landmarks as World Heritage Sites.
Hiroshima
Known as the global peace center, Hiroshima is one of the most popular places in Japan, world-renowned because of the atomic bomb. The Peace Memorial Museum, located right next to the dome, was the only surviving structure. It’s at ground zero (and a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and is a must-see for visitors.
The city also has another World Heritage Site. It’s the Itsukushima Shrine of Miyajima Island, one of the places in Japan with a postcard icon.
Okinawa – Japan Overseas
A group of islands stretching southward from Japan, Okinawa is the country’s equivalent of Hawaii. These islands have a unique indigenous culture and are popular places in Japan because of their sub-tropical climate and beautiful beaches.
It’s also renowned for the world’s best diving spots and the incredible Churaumi Aquarium.
Hyogo
Understandably, the greatest attraction for tourists to Hyogo prefecture is Himeji Castle. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Japan’s most impressive castles and popular places, if not all of Asia.
Close to Osaka, the prefecture is also home to the city of Kobe. As a result, it’s considered by some to be one of Japan’s most attractive cities, despite being leveled by a massive earthquake in 1995.
You may also enjoy: Best City in Vietnam – Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh / Top 10 Places in Thailand / Why You Should Visit Singapore
If You Go:
Japan National Tourism Organization
New York
One Grand Central Place
60 East 42nd Street, Suite 448
New York, NY 10165
@ infonyc@jnto.go.jp
Tel: (212) 757-5640
Los Angeles
707 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 4325
Los Angeles, CA 90017
@ infolax@jnto.go.jp
Tel: (213) 623-1952
Toronto
55 York Street, Suite 202
Toronto M5J 1R7
i love japan and want do bussiness in japan soon
i love japan
i love love love love love love love love love love love love love japan
i love japan cause anime was born there….:)
I love japan so much, it is my dream country. Japan is Japan because of the Japanese, so I love Japanese even more.
MAY GOD BLESS JAPAN
Many vacationers seeking out a once in a lifetime vacation experience will go through a number of options in their mind before reaching a decision. The Caribbean, South Pacific, Western Europe, Australia, Brazil, and Southeast Asia are all usually at or near the top of the list for many people. One of the most fantastic and exotic vacation destinations though is the nation of Japan. Japan has a rich and interesting history, much of which can be seen in various attractions throughout the country. The cities of Japan offer a great way to experience the culture of the country and at the same time have some fantastic times in a foreign country. Each of the incredible destination cities in Japan offers something unique and interesting.
So what would you recommend as the best 3 or so places to go?
Me and my mrs are booking a 12 day stay in Japan, 5 Tokyo 4 Osaka and 2 at kyoto.
We are stuck between staying in Kyoto for the 2 days or scrapping that and staying in Hiroshima. Any thoughts?
Hi Kristian,
For first-time visitors, which I think you may be, I would recommend Kyoto as a far more interesting place. On the other hand, Hiroshima is a lure for many Americans because of the destruction from WW2, and naturally, we all (regardless of nationality) want to see things/place related to historic events. But Kyoto has a much greater cultural tie to the country. It really depends upon your interests. Which ever you decide to visit, I hope you have a great and memorable trip!
But please what about anime centers
love u japan…
Japan is very diverse country and there is so much to see!
it so beautiful
amazingand stanning and glamorous
I love japan. i also visit to go to Japan. Japanies People are great and good wishers of all.
the pics are beautiful! Thats why I just went there! lol lol
I’m so looking forward to my Japan Trip next year so excited to visit and me new people and make new friends
I like Japan. & I want do business or job in japan soon..
I like to visit Japan, but i am govt primary teacher , i dont have enough money.
what can do to visit japan
Get a job teaching English as a second language and take leave without pay from your current job
I fell in love with Kanagawa. I will stop at nothing to go there.
What about Nikko?
Hi Elenita,
The list is based upon the number of people who travel to each area.
i love japan very much,ive gone there four times already still i want to go back. two times in tokyo, one in osaka, and one in nagoya.
Japan.. Love in Tokyo…
Japan.. my admiring place. love you
LOVE YOU JAPAN wish to visit you… someday!!!
starting saving money now…hehe
I love Japan
i love, Kyoto City because its more traveling places..
Hi,
great site and very nice overview about Japan. Thank you.
Please check your pictures in the article, like the city under Nr. 2, Kyoto -> the picture shows Yokohama 🙂
keep on going
Hi Rico,
Thanks for your help. The photo to which you refer though, is actually is for Kanagawa/Yokohama in the paragraph below. it.
i will come japan
i’m hoping for the same
i wish you a lot of luck 😉
japan is most beautiful country
Great place… i love japan
i love japan
It is very strange that under the description of Kyoto you have a picture of Yokohama.
I live in Yokohama and would recognize the Minatomorai area at once.
The picture of Kyoto might be more appropriate inhere.
Hi Dina,
The photo of Kyoto is above the description of that city, not below it.
hi…gudday!!!!i wanted to go japan by next year…but its difficult for me to get a visa .i wany to get a vesit visa or tourist visa?which visa do think i ca get easy..starting this month i a about to save money for my visa….can you help me sir..Jim ferri?looking forward your answer..thanks
You will need to contact the Japan Tourism Board to answer these questions. Good luck!
It is a very nice place to live
I wanted to visit aichi. it looks very natural, unique, and mysterious. would be very nice to visit there.
Hey, there, thanks for sharing this amazing post with us. I really love Japan for its many tech industry, culture & awesome gardens. I, think, Nikko is the favorite destination for travel, I like its beautiful shrines & natural beauty.
Я люблю Японию. :-):-):-):-):-):-):-):-)
japan is really very beautiful country. One time i really want to visit in Japan.
I really want to visit Japaaaaan!! Their culture is so rich 😀 From geishas to kimonos, to teahouses, to temples and buddhas.. I want to take photos to show how wonderful their culture is.. And if I would be given the chance to travel to Japan, I’ll prioritize going to Kyoto because it is the perfect place to see what traditional Japan is 🙂 Love your pictures 😀 Dying to see their cherry blossoms too!!
What can I say? Japan is really awesome! Exploring this country is on the top of my to-do list in my life. I hope that I will be able to start with my Japan exploration soon! But for now your blog post has given me renewed enthusiasm to visit this wonderful country.
Moomin valley park in Hanno in Saitama prefecture will be nice to place to go after Apr 2019. You can experience Nordic life style there. To save your time and money, You might wanna go there around the time the 2020 olympic game will be held. You can see surf competition and eat fresh Sushi as well in Chiba prefecture, next to Saitama prefecture, in 2020.
I appreciate your sharing
Thank you.
I also explored your shared all these fabulous places in my these tours and have a joyful time with my family and friends.
Thank you Eliayna
me too i lovelovelovelovelovelovelovelovelovelovelovelovelovelovelovelovelovelovelooove japan want to live there
Thank you Mary. I’m sure that one day you wil livelivelivelivelivelivelivelive there!
Japan is a wonderful country. Looking forward to visiting more cities.
Hi Maryam,
Yes, Japan is a wonderful country, and also a unique one. One has to travel there and experience firsthand why it is so wonderful/Unique.
Jim
I wish I could go to Japan, I will probably go when I’m older and when corona is over, I hate corona. 🙁
By the way thanks so much for this article, it was a great source for my fake travel brochure for school!!!
Glad I was able to help 🙂
If you want to go, you will some day.
Japan is one of the best places to visit in the world for traveling, but you have missed Mount Abu for this list. I think we should visit japan once in our lifetime. Thank You & keep traveling.