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NeverStopTraveling

Traveling in Japan – The Most Popular Places

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Last Updated on February 24, 2023 by Jim Ferri

Buddhist temple in the fall - one of the best places in Japan
Buddhist temple of Noisin in the District of Kyoto, one of the best places in Japan / photo: ©Moyan Brenn/Flickr

Estimated reading time: 8 minutes

By Jim Ferri

a geisha in Kyoto- one of the best places in Japan
Kyoto / photo: JNTO

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
  • Kyoto, a Popular Favorite with International Travelers
  • Kanagawa
  • Osaka, Japan’s Foodie City
  • Chiba, Gateway to Japan
  • Aichi
  • Nara, the First Capital of Japan
  • Hiroshima
  • Okinawa – Japan Overseas
  • Hyogo
  • If You Go:
people in a rain storm in Tokyo - one of the best places in Japan
Tokyo / photo: ©Moyan Brenn/Flickr

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.

woman walking down a lane at night
Kyoto / photo: ©Moyan Brenn/Flickr

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.

a giant statue of Buddha
Great Buddha of Kamakura / photo Yoshikazu Takada/Flickr

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.

a castle at night in Japan
Osaka Castle / photo: Reginald Pentinio/Flickr

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.

colorful road patterns at night
Light trails at Umi Hotaru, Chiba, Japan / photo: aotaro/Flickr
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.

two women walking into a shrine in one of the best places in Japan
Atsuta Shrine, Aichi / photo: Bryan/Flickr

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.

Monks walking through a red-pained hallway
Monks in Nara

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.

a woman with a peace latern

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.

an aquarum in Japan
The aquarium in Okinawa / photo: doctorho/Flickr

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.

a castle on a hill in Japan
Himeji Castle / photo: nobuhiro suhara/Flickr

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

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Comments

  1. mubeen says

    December 24, 2013 at 12:22 pm

    i love japan and want do bussiness in japan soon

    Reply
    • Eesal says

      January 29, 2014 at 12:19 am

      i love japan

      Reply
      • mia says

        May 18, 2016 at 2:28 pm

        i love love love love love love love love love love love love love japan

        Reply
      • Fatima Farah says

        August 12, 2016 at 5:18 am

        i love japan cause anime was born there….:)

        Reply
      • Zeresenay Estifanos Andetsion says

        October 27, 2016 at 3:23 pm

        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

        Reply
  2. Bondeng Attractions says

    May 10, 2014 at 8:50 pm

    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.

    Reply
    • Kristian says

      September 20, 2019 at 11:33 am

      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?

      Reply
      • Jim Ferri says

        September 23, 2019 at 8:35 pm

        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!

        Reply
        • Lusy smart says

          January 6, 2021 at 3:18 am

          But please what about anime centers

          Reply
  3. nino says

    August 27, 2014 at 9:52 am

    love u japan…

    Reply
  4. Mian says

    September 7, 2014 at 2:12 pm

    Japan is very diverse country and there is so much to see!

    Reply
  5. maechel rocaberte says

    September 25, 2014 at 9:46 pm

    it so beautiful

    Reply
    • maechel rocaberte says

      September 25, 2014 at 9:47 pm

      amazingand stanning and glamorous

      Reply
  6. farooq ahmad. jarwar says

    November 5, 2014 at 12:56 am

    I love japan. i also visit to go to Japan. Japanies People are great and good wishers of all.

    Reply
  7. Gerry says

    November 5, 2014 at 6:34 pm

    the pics are beautiful! Thats why I just went there! lol lol

    Reply
  8. Justin Fowler says

    February 19, 2015 at 1:43 pm

    I’m so looking forward to my Japan Trip next year so excited to visit and me new people and make new friends

    Reply
  9. Ganesh choudhary says

    April 9, 2015 at 4:49 pm

    I like Japan. & I want do business or job in japan soon..

    Reply
  10. Dipankar das says

    April 29, 2015 at 3:28 am

    I like to visit Japan, but i am govt primary teacher , i dont have enough money.
    what can do to visit japan

    Reply
    • Mike says

      November 12, 2018 at 10:02 pm

      Get a job teaching English as a second language and take leave without pay from your current job

      Reply
  11. Adri says

    May 18, 2015 at 3:06 pm

    I fell in love with Kanagawa. I will stop at nothing to go there.

    Reply
  12. Elenita Brodie says

    May 21, 2015 at 3:06 pm

    What about Nikko?

    Reply
    • Jim Ferri says

      May 21, 2015 at 3:47 pm

      Hi Elenita,
      The list is based upon the number of people who travel to each area.

      Reply
  13. jerrry gaite says

    June 19, 2015 at 3:31 am

    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.

    Reply
  14. Vinod says

    June 27, 2015 at 9:26 pm

    Japan.. Love in Tokyo…

    Reply
  15. laldamlian chorei says

    June 28, 2015 at 8:51 am

    Japan.. my admiring place. love you

    Reply
  16. Jona says

    July 2, 2015 at 10:52 pm

    LOVE YOU JAPAN wish to visit you… someday!!!
    starting saving money now…hehe

    Reply
  17. Rory says

    July 20, 2015 at 7:37 pm

    I love Japan

    Reply
  18. allysah mae says

    July 25, 2015 at 6:47 am

    i love, Kyoto City because its more traveling places..

    Reply
  19. Rico says

    August 14, 2015 at 11:03 pm

    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

    Reply
    • Jim Ferri says

      August 15, 2015 at 9:03 am

      Hi Rico,
      Thanks for your help. The photo to which you refer though, is actually is for Kanagawa/Yokohama in the paragraph below. it.

      Reply
  20. sunita karki says

    August 28, 2015 at 6:49 am

    i will come japan

    Reply
  21. ilias says

    October 10, 2015 at 12:53 am

    i’m hoping for the same
    i wish you a lot of luck 😉

    Reply
  22. siddaraj.c says

    November 17, 2015 at 11:49 pm

    japan is most beautiful country

    Reply
  23. Glucoberry says

    December 24, 2015 at 2:41 am

    Great place… i love japan

    Reply
  24. gulzar says

    January 31, 2016 at 11:56 am

    i love japan

    Reply
  25. Dina says

    February 3, 2016 at 10:15 pm

    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.

    Reply
    • Jim Ferri says

      February 3, 2016 at 10:28 pm

      Hi Dina,
      The photo of Kyoto is above the description of that city, not below it.

      Reply
      • anne rea says

        May 22, 2016 at 2:08 am

        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

        Reply
        • Jim Ferri says

          May 22, 2016 at 11:21 am

          You will need to contact the Japan Tourism Board to answer these questions. Good luck!

          Reply
  26. FABRIZIO KWESI says

    July 22, 2016 at 2:52 am

    It is a very nice place to live

    Reply
  27. ray says

    August 9, 2016 at 1:52 am

    I wanted to visit aichi. it looks very natural, unique, and mysterious. would be very nice to visit there.

    Reply
  28. jasmine says

    September 27, 2016 at 5:54 am

    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.

    Reply
  29. Александр Пахарь says

    October 12, 2016 at 10:44 am

    Я люблю Японию. :-):-):-):-):-):-):-):-)

    Reply
  30. james justin says

    June 22, 2017 at 1:00 am

    japan is really very beautiful country. One time i really want to visit in Japan.

    Reply
  31. jemidiochel @ Baguio City Guide says

    April 28, 2018 at 2:35 am

    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!!

    Reply
  32. Coron by Vince says

    July 12, 2018 at 4:19 am

    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.

    Reply
  33. HIROSHI says

    September 5, 2018 at 4:41 am

    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.

    Reply
  34. Aaron45 says

    March 19, 2019 at 7:22 am

    I appreciate your sharing

    Reply
    • Jim Ferri says

      March 19, 2019 at 7:24 am

      Thank you.

      Reply
  35. Eliayna says

    August 30, 2019 at 7:23 am

    I also explored your shared all these fabulous places in my these tours and have a joyful time with my family and friends.

    Reply
  36. Jim Ferri says

    September 4, 2019 at 1:41 pm

    Thank you Eliayna

    Reply
  37. Mery says

    April 27, 2020 at 7:21 am

    me too i lovelovelovelovelovelovelovelovelovelovelovelovelovelovelovelovelovelovelooove japan want to live there

    Reply
    • Jim Ferri says

      April 27, 2020 at 7:46 am

      Thank you Mary. I’m sure that one day you wil livelivelivelivelivelivelivelive there!

      Reply
  38. Maryam Davodi-Far says

    May 18, 2020 at 5:59 pm

    Japan is a wonderful country. Looking forward to visiting more cities.

    Reply
    • Jim Ferri says

      May 18, 2020 at 8:18 pm

      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

      Reply
  39. WarriorGirl_777 says

    May 26, 2020 at 5:10 pm

    I wish I could go to Japan, I will probably go when I’m older and when corona is over, I hate corona. 🙁

    Reply
    • WarriorGirl_777 says

      May 26, 2020 at 5:12 pm

      By the way thanks so much for this article, it was a great source for my fake travel brochure for school!!!

      Reply
      • Jim Ferri says

        May 27, 2020 at 7:19 am

        Glad I was able to help 🙂

        Reply
    • Jim Ferri says

      May 27, 2020 at 7:18 am

      If you want to go, you will some day.

      Reply
  40. Akshay Sawant says

    April 5, 2021 at 6:45 am

    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.

    Reply

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