Let’s start with statistics.
In the year 2023, the estimated number of travelers visiting Japan was 3,312,000, according to the Japan National Tourism Organization.
Now, this number simply indicates that travelers are attracted to and desire to visit this developed Asian country.
Apart from technological enhancement, there are some of the best places to visit in Japan, such as Mount Fuji, Okinawa, and Yokohama, and the list goes on.
If you are heading towards Japan, knowing the places will help you plan your trip. And here at Pirate Mobile, we don’t only offer the best eSIM plan. But we love helping travelers to have memorable visits with ultimate fun and ease, no matter where they move.
So, without spending too much time here, let’s explore the places you might want to visit in Japan.
Ready?
Best Places to Visit in Japan
You’ll find so many places in Japan that attract thousands of travelers around the world to have a visit and keep them calm.
But yes, what if you are asked to pick a few among them?
Travelers who visit Japan set up different periods for when they will stay there. And even if you want, it won’t be possible for you to cover all the places in a limited amount of time.
Then again, you can try exploring as many places as you can, considering the cost to go to Japan.
Let’s start with the most prominent one!
- The Mount Fuji
Even if you are not a mountain lover, the historical Mount Fuji has a special experience to offer to you. And if you love mountains, you know the feeling.
Do you know that Mount Fuji is the tallest mountain in Japan? Isn’t it something that is supposed to excite the travelers much? Yes, it is. The exact height of Mount Fuji is 3776 meters, which is huge.
You can’t keep your eyes away from the mountain and the natural attractions surrounding it.
Mount Fuji is located on the island of Honshu in Japan. Apart from being the tallest mountain, it is also of some spiritual importance.
Therefore, having a visit to Mount Fuji is the best thing you can do in Japan. What’s your take on this? Especially when the spring break starts.
- Okinawa
Okinawa is full of natural beauty and resources. The natural attraction is located in the southwestern tip of the Japanese archipelago.
If you like the sea vibe, beach, trees, and blue water and want to spend some time, visiting Okinawa can be a smart move.
You will be surprised to know that more than 1600 islands comprise Okinawa. A good number of travelers from different parts of the world have visited the island at different times.
Fun things to do in Japan include experiencing the unique culture and history of Okinawa.
If you want to see the world’s largest aquarium, you should visit Okinawa, which has a museum that reflects its history.
- Kyoto
Travelers are drawn to Kyoto, Japan’s historic capital, by its tranquil beauty and diverse cultural heritage. This fascinating city in the Kansai area is well-known for its many temples, shrines, and traditional gardens.
To fully experience the city’s rich spirituality and history, tourists swarm to Kyoto.
The famous Fushimi Inari Shrine is a must-see, which snakes across the wooded slope with thousands of vivid red torii gates.
Kiyomizu-Dera Temple and Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), both glistening with gold leaf and providing stunning vistas, are equally alluring. So if you want to explore the Japanese tradition, why not visit Kyoto and share the experience with the world.
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- Tokyo
Japan’s vibrant capital, Tokyo, is a fascinating city where modern technology coexists peacefully with long-standing customs.
You’ll hardly find any traveler visiting Japan who doesn’t want to explore the capital city.
Besides, this energetic city, situated on the southeast coast of the island of Honshu, draws tourists from all over the world looking for a distinctive fusion of urban excitement and cultural experiences.
Tokyo has a lot to offer visitors, from historical landmarks to modern marvels. The renowned Tokyo Skytree, Japan’s tallest structure, offers breathtaking city views in every direction.
The Meiji Jingu Shrine, a haven of peace dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, provides a break from the busy city life.
- Osaka
If you want to explore a port city in Japan, Osaka can be a decent place to visit. What’s unique about the port city is you can try a good number of famous Japanese dishes out there.
Osaka is located in the Kansai region of Honshu. The city has a population of around 2.7 million.
One of Osaka’s main attractions is its historical sites. With breathtaking city views, Osaka Castle is a magnificent castle from the 16th century.
Apart from that, The Dotonbori district is a must-see for its unique taste and vibrant environment, brilliant neon lights, bustling throng, and thrilling entertainment.
- Shiretoko National Park
The Shiretoko National Park is also one of Japan’s best tourist places. Why? If you want to adventure in Japan, never miss visiting the park. The park provides a range of activities for those who enjoy the outdoors.
Hiking paths give stunning views of the surrounding area as they meander through the park’s verdant woodlands. In the Sea of Okhotsk, boat cruises provide the chance to see marine life, such as dolphins and whales.
The captivating sight of drift ice, a singular sight where enormous ice floes drift south down the shore, is visible to tourists in the winter.
The Shiretoko National Park is situated at the northeastern tip of Hokkaido. The breathtaking coastal landscape with soaring cliffs, tumbling waterfalls, and immaculate beaches is equally enticing.
- Yokohama
Yokohama is the capital and second-biggest city of Japan, situated in Kanagawa Prefecture. Known for its substantial port and strong infrastructure, this city of more than 3.7 million people is a significant business and cultural hub in Japan.
If you are looking for a more affordable alternative to spending your days in Japan, Yokohama is the option.
Expenses are quite lower here compared to the capital city, Tokyo.
When discussing the specific attractions, you should never miss checking out the Yokohama Landmark Tower and Cosmo Clock 21.
The funny part is, you’ll also find a museum named Cup Noodles Museum which is dedicated to the history of instant noodles.
- Kanazawa
The capital of Ishikawa Prefecture in central Japan, Kanazawa, is well known for its historical significance and rich cultural legacy.
It was founded by the Maeda clan during the Edo Period and thrived as a hub for arts and crafts, maintaining several customs.
Kenrokuen, one of Japan’s most renowned gardens, is located in the city and draws millions of tourists annually. Kanazawa’s well-preserved geisha and samurai districts provide a window into the city’s history.
The place is also well known for creating gold leaf, which adds to its moniker, “the marsh of gold.” Kanazawa is a special place because of its unique combination of history and artistic expression. These all make Kanazawa one of the best places to go in Japan.
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- The Michinoku Coastal Trail
A beautiful long-distance hiking route, the Michinoku Coastal Trail runs around 1,025 kilometers (637 miles) along the northeastern coast of Honshu Island, Japan.
It passes along the picturesque Sanriku Coast and links Hachinohe in Aomori Prefecture with Soma in Fukushima Prefecture.
The route, which was created as part of the rebuilding efforts after the terrible Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011, allows hikers to see a variety of scenery, such as cliffs, sandy beaches, and coastal woods.
The trail was formally launched in June 2019 and encourages local tourism and regeneration while offering a singular chance to engage with residents and the environment.
This isn’t just a hike; it’s a soul journey. Born from the spirit of resilience after the devastating 2011 earthquake, the Michinoku Coastal Trail weaves a tapestry of hope and renewal.
- Shimane
Shimane Prefecture is renowned for its natural beauty and rich cultural legacy. It is situated along the Sea of Japan in the Chugoku region of Japan. Its three primary regions—Matsue/Izumo, Iwami, and Oki—offer a distinct experience.
Matsue, the capital, is well-known for its close vicinity to Lake Shinji and its medieval castle.
Shimane is the location of the Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Izumo Taisha, one of Japan’s most important and ancient Shinto shrines.
The area is a popular tourist attraction because of its rich mythology and traditions.
Thanks to the city’s numerous transportation choices, you can easily tour Kanazawa and its neighboring attractions.
The Kanazawa Circle Bus, which runs in a convenient circle from Kanazawa Station to significant locations every 15 minutes, is the main means of transportation for tourists.
- Ueno Park
One of the most well-known and culturally significant public parks in Taito City, Tokyo, is Ueno Park.
With over 1,200 cherry trees along its walkways, this 54-hectare park was created in 1873 as Japan’s first public park and is well-known for its stunning cherry blossoms.
The Tokyo National Museum, the National Museum of Western Art, and the Ueno Zoo, which has giant pandas among its many other animals, are some of the park’s main attractions.
Ueno Park is also a popular destination for residents and visitors as it is a thriving center for cultural events and activities. The ease of access to the park’s numerous attractions from Ueno Station adds to its allure.
You can enjoy the fusion of nature and culture in the center of Tokyo, whether for a leisurely walk, a family vacation or to enjoy art and history.
- Hitsujiyama Park
Hitsujiyama Park, tucked away in Chichibu, Saitama Prefecture, bursts with color every spring. The park’s well-known Shibazakura (moss phlox) fields are transformed into a vivid pink, white, and purple tapestry between mid-April and early May.
During the Shibazakura Festival, this enchanted spectacle attracts large groups of people who may enjoy local cuisine and music while enjoying the splendor.
At Hitsujiyama Park, Shibazakura Hill is the focal point, home to almost 400,000 moss phlox plants. It’s a very compelling scene with the stunning backdrop of Mount Buko.
However, Hitsujiyama Park is not just about flowers. You may explore the park’s pristine beauty by strolling along its paths. The park is a fantastic place for families since it has exhibition rooms and playgrounds that offer extra amusement.
- Nagoya
Aichi Prefecture is home to Nagoya, the fourth-largest city in Japan and a major center of industry and culture.
It is the capital of the Chūbu region, home to some 2.3 million people, and has a rich history entwined with the fabled samurai era.
The city is renowned for its intimate ties to significant historical personalities in the Sengoku era, including Oda Nobunaga, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and Tokugawa Ieyasu.
As the birthplace of the automobile behemoth Toyota, Nagoya is known for its thriving industrial sector.
A blend of modern and traditional elements can be seen in the city, home to well-known landmarks, including Nagoya Castle, Atsuta Shrine, and the Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium.
Additionally, visitors may enjoy Nagoya-style ramen and hitsumabushi (grilled fish), two examples of regional food.
- Kobe
Kobe, the city, has a great history of rebuilding itself after a shocking 6.9 earthquake took place back in 1995. The attractive city is in Hyogo Prefecture: Arima Onsen, Kobe Harborland, and more. Now, you might be wondering what you can see there.
You can enjoy Merikan Park, the historical Kobe Port Tower, and more. Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are the ideal seasons to visit Kobe.
You’ll find temperatures between about 10°C and 19°C (50°F and 66°F); springtime brings nice, warm weather that is perfect for outdoor activities and cherry blossom gazing.
So, why not take a soothing dip in the onsens and stroll around the quaint alleys lined with traditional stores and ryokan?
- Takayama
Takayama is known for its rich cultural legacy and well-preserved Edo-period architecture. It is situated in the Hida area of Gifu Prefecture.
The quaint Sanmachi Suji District provides a window into bygone Japan With its ancient wooden homes and sake breweries. Takayama Jinya, a historical location that functioned as the administrative hub during the Tokugawa shogunate, is open for tourist exploration.
Traditional thatched-roof homes may be seen at the Hida Folk Village, while local crafts and fresh fruit can be found at the daily morning markets along the Miyagawa River. A popular tourist location, Takayama is particularly well-known for its colorful spring and fall festivals.
Final Words
You can now make a list of the best cities to visit in Japan. And once you have completed this, you’ll have a more comprehensive travel experience out there.
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