20 Best Places to Visit in Japan

Are you planning your first international trip to Japan? What if your holiday could give you beautiful mountain views, peaceful temples, exciting cities, delicious food, and unforgettable memories you will talk about for years? At Dream Travel Yaari, we offer you the best Japan tour package, where you can explore the bright streets of Tokyo, the peaceful temples of Kyoto and panoramic views around Mount Fuji. Japan is a fantastic destination for all types of travellers.

Japan is a wonderful choice for families, friends, couples and those planning their first international trip. Modern cities, traditional Japanese culture, and delicious local food, with shopping for unique products. With so many famous places to visit, deciding where to go in Japan can feel overwhelming. A lot of questions, like which city should I visit first, where to stay, and how many days are enough, and the most common question: how can I experience the best of Japan without making the trip more stressful? 

If you want to know which places to explore in Japan, you are in the right place. In this detailed article, we will explore the 20 Best Places to Visit in Japan and help you to plan your trip to Japan stress-free. And if you want a stress-free and comfortable Japan trip, you can choose Dream Travel Yaari, because this travel company has provided tour packages since 2014 and plans everything: hotels, sightseeing and transfers. Stay tuned with us:

1. Tokyo – Where Traditional Japan Meets the Future

When you plan your first international trip to Japan, Tokyo obviously is the best place to start your holiday. You can explore historical temples and anime districts in the afternoon. By booking a Tokyo tour package, you can explore famous Tokyo areas such as Shibuya, Shinjuku, Harajuku, Ginza and Asakusa. Here are some top things you can do in Tokyo:

• Visit Sensoji Temple

• Experience Shibuya Crossing

• Explore Harajuku

• Visit Tokyo Skytree

• Shop in Ginza and Shinjuku

• Explore Akihabara

• Enjoy Japanese ramen, sushi and street food

Tokyo is the perfect destination for families, couples and especially food lovers because you can get various food options like sushi, Ramen, Tempura, Monjayaki, Yakitori, and Wagashi. 

2. Kyoto – The Cultural Heart of Japan

While Tokyo showcases Japan's modern side, Kyoto offers a glimpse into its traditional heritage. This city has been the capital of Japan for more than 1000 years. You can explore historic streets, traditional wooden houses, gardens, temples, shrines and traditional tea culture that make it one of the best places to understand Japan's heritage. This location is best for Culture lovers, couples, photographers and people who travel to Japan for the first time. 

3. Osaka – Japan's Food and Entertainment Capital

Osaka offers you the most energetic, colorful and famous food and the best nightlife. This is completely different from Tokyo & Kyoto, because the city is lively, vibrant and noted for its culinary traditions, its nightlife and hospitable spirit. Among the dishes, takoyaki and okonomiyaki stand out, and districts like Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi are full of eateries, shops and illuminated signs. You can explore popular destinations like:

• Osaka Castle

• Dotonbori

• Shinsaibashi

• Universal Studios Japan

• Umeda Sky Building

• Kuromon Market

This place is the perfect destination for Food lovers, families, young travellers and nightlife enthusiasts.

4. Mount Fuji – Japan's Most Iconic Mountain

There is no one tour list that feels complete without listing the name of Mount Fuji. Because it is the highest 3,776 metres mountain and the most recognisable symbols. Most of the travellers want to explore the surrounding Fuji Five Lakes region for mountain views, photography, cycling and outdoor activities. This location is best for Nature lovers, photographers, adventure travellers and couples.

5. Nara – Meet Japan's Famous Deer

Nara is located close to Kyoto and Osaka, and that destination adds a classic Japan itinerary. The city is home to historic temples and shrines. Nearby Todaiji Temple houses the enormous Great Buddha, one of the country's most famous religious monuments. You can explore Nara's temple, gardens and traditional streets. 

• Nara Park

• Todaiji Temple

• Kasuga Taisha

• Kofukuji Temple

• Naramachi

Nara is especially suitable for families, culture lovers and first-time Japan visitors.

6. Hiroshima – A City of Peace and Reflection

Hiroshima is not just a place to enjoy as a tourist but also a place to educate oneself and contemplate the vital events in the modern history of mankind. Hiroshima is a city of peace and reflection. The Peace Memorial Park and Atomic Bomb Dome commemorate the victims of the 1945 atomic bombing. They also encourage visitors to reflect on the importance of peace. You can explore in Hiroshima:

• Peace Memorial Park

• Atomic Bomb Dome

• Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum

• Miyajima

• Itsukushima Shrine

• Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki

7. Miyajima – Home of the Famous Floating Torii Gate 

Miyajima makes for one of the most memorable day trips from Hiroshima. The island is known for Itsukushima Shrine and its famous vermilion torii gate, which seems to float in the water when the tide is out. In addition, the island features walking paths, mountain views, temples, and local cuisine.

The appearance of the torii gate changes dramatically according to the tide; thus, it is good to check tide timings before visiting.

8. Hakone – Hot Springs and Mount Fuji Views

The resort area of Hakone is located in Kanagawa, Japan, and is close to Tokyo. The area is famous for its hot springs, Ashi Lake in Hakone, and scenic views of Mount Fuji. Moreover, on Ashi Lake one can board a sightseeing boat, visit the volcanic ground of Owakudani, or stay overnight in a ryokan with a hot spring.

9. Sapporo – A Winter Wonderland in Hokkaido

If snow activities in Japan are high on your priority list, then Sapporo should be at the top of your list. The capital of Hokkaido is popular for its winter sports, seafood, ramen and the Sapporo Snow Festival, which happens in the early days of February every year. During this event, downtown Sapporo is turned into a big exhibition of ice and snow sculptures.

However, Sapporo is not only worth visiting in winter. You can also enjoy this city in summer, as it also has a lot of parks, mountains and outdoor activities. You can experience in Sapporo:

• Sapporo Snow Festival

• Odori Park

• Sapporo Beer Museum

• Susukino

• Local seafood

• Hokkaido ramen

10. Okinawa – Japan's Tropical Side

Japan may be associated with temples, buildings, and sakura flowers. However, Okinawa completely changed this picture. This southern prefecture of Japan has tropical weather, white-sand beaches, coral reefs, and special island culture connected with the history of the Ryukyu kingdom. In Okinawa, tourists can visit historical sites, practice water sports, or spend several days vacationing by the sea.

Among its most popular points of interest are the Churaumi Aquarium, beautiful beaches, and coral waters.

11. Kanazawa – A Beautiful Alternative to Kyoto

For tourists who seek Japanese historical heritage and traditional culture and do not want to only see the most visited cities, Kanazawa is a great option. The city is known for its close ties with art and craftsmanship, especially gold leaf, lacquerware, and ceramics. One of the most visited places in the city is Kenrokuen Garden, noted as one of the most famous gardens in Japan.

12. Takayama – Step Into Old Japan

Takayama is situated in the mountainous region of Gifu Prefecture, providing tourists with a unique chance to enjoy a traditional trip.

The city is famed for its preserved historic streets, architecture, craftsmanship and its place in the mountains. In addition, Gifu is where the historic village of Shirakawa-go is located, famous for its thatched-roof houses and making the standard rural scenery of Japan. Here are some things you can do in Takayama:

• Walk through the old town

• Visit morning markets

• Try Hida beef

• Explore local museums

• Visit nearby Shirakawa-go

13. Fukuoka – A Food Lover's Paradise

Fukuoka is among the best-kept secrets of Japan when it comes to major cities. Located in Kyushu, it boasts a laid-back environment, exceptional transport options, and a top-notch culinary scene. The city is particularly known for tonkotsu ramen, seafood, and its evening yatai stalls.

You could also take a quick detour to Dazaifu Tenmangu, a renowned shrine surrounded by hundreds of plum trees.

14. Nagasaki – A City Shaped by International History

What is special about Nagasaki is its long history as a port which has been open to international commerce. The city is a mixed Japanese-Chinese-European culture, as can be seen in places such as Dejima, Glover Garden and Chinatown and has suffered the 1945 atomic bomb damage; Nagasaki Peace Park marks it.

15. Nikko – Temples, Mountains and Waterfalls

Nikko will make for a good option if you are looking to blend Japanese history with nature. It is a site of UNESCO World Heritage shrines and temples such as the ornate Toshogu Shrine, as well as a national park rich with mountains, forests, Lake Chuzenji and Kegon falls. From Tokyo Nikko is approx. 2 hours away, and a day trip can be easily managed, or you can stay over a night or more.

16. Kamakura – A Historic Coastal Escape Near Tokyo

A day trip from the busy streets of Tokyo, Kamakura is located just under an hour from central Tokyo. As well as its many temples and shrines, there are also beaches and the well-known Great Buddha of Kamakura-a bronze statue from the 13th century and over 11 metres in height, excluding the pedestal. Kamakura was formerly a political capital of Japan.

17. Kobe – Great Food and Harbour Views

Kobe is a small harbour city surrounded by mountains and the sea. Definitely, the greatest culinary attraction of the city is Kobe beef; however, there is much more to discover. There are shopping and food opportunities along with waterfront views in Kobe Harborland, Meriken Park, and Chinatown. You can also go to Arima Onsen, which is one of the oldest hot spring areas in Japan.

18. Nagano – Snow Monkeys and Mountain Adventures

World famous for its staging of the 1998 Winter Olympics, Nagano is a province which is much more than winter sports. It is also known for its scenic mountain landscapes, ski areas and,of course, the snow monkeys relaxing in hot springs. Nagano city provides a convenient base for further travel. When you are going during the winter season, Nagano is certainly worth including in your Japan itinerary.

19. Himeji – Visit Japan's Best-Preserved Castle

UNESCO World Heritage designated, 'White Heron Castle', Himeji Castle is one of Japan's most remarkably preserved original castles in the nation. Completed in 1609, the existing complex comprises a number of more than 80 structures.

Unique for its white outer walls, multiple tiers of roofs, and defensible compound, it is truly a captivating historical site. Easily accessible by use of the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen, Himeji makes an ideal pit-stop between cities.

20. Yokohama – A Modern Waterfront City Near Tokyo

Yokohama is also a convenient trip to make while you're based in Tokyo. Japan's second biggest city has a very international feel thanks to its heritage as the nation's premier international port. Places to visit are Yokohama Chinatown, Minato Mirai (the bayside entertainment and business district), the Red Brick Warehouse and the Waterfront. Being just under an hour's direct rail journey from Tokyo itself, Yokohama is the ideal day trip.

How Many Days Are Enough For a Japan Trip?

Japan is a country where you can easily spend several weeks exploring and still have places left to discover. When you go on your first-time tour of Japan, it is advisable to have a duration of about 7 to 10 days. It allows one to cover the following main destinations:

Tokyo → Mount Fuji/Hakone → Osaka → Nara → Kyoto

Should one be lucky to have 12-15 days for the visit to Japan, it is possible to add Hiroshima, Kanazawa, Takayama and other points to the journey.

Currently, the travel agency Dream Travel Yaari includes trips to Japan, from short visits in Tokyo to packages covering such Japanese cities as Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto and Mount Fuji, including travel options for families and those seeking luxury trips.

What Is The Best Time To Visit Japan?

Japan is a year-round destination, but the experience varies significantly from season to season.

• Spring: March to May- Spring is well-known for its flowering of cherry trees. Cities such as Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka and many others are especially frequented during this season.

• Summer: June to August- Summer entails numerous celebrations as well as lush greenery and chances for outdoor activities. It is also a popular season for climbing Mount Fuji.

• Autumn: September to November- Autumn is one of the best seasons to visit thanks to colourful foliage, especially in Kyoto, Nikko, Hakone and mountainous areas

• Winter: December to February- Winter is the perfect time to visit if you want snow, skiing, hot springs, and places like Hokkaido and Nagano. The famous Snow Festival in Sapporo is celebrated in early February.

Why Choose Dream Travel Yaari For A Japan Tour Package?

Japan is a year-round destination, but your experience largely depends on how well your trip is planned. Travel Yaari makes the perfect tour package of Japan, including Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Mount Fuji and all popular destinations, into one trip. DTY also offers Tokyo and Osaka family trips, Japan honeymoon tour packages, 5 nights Tokyo tour package, package Itstc. Its tour packages include affordable & premium accommodation, flights, travel, and food; it depends on your itinerary.