11 best places to visit in Japan
Japan is an enthralling country with a rich cultural legacy, stunning natural beauty, and cutting-edge cities. There are numerous sites to explore in Japan, ranging from historic temples to magnificent scenery. Here are 11 of the best places to visit in Japan
Destinations / Japan
May 2023
Mount Fuji
Japan’s tallest peak, Mount Fuji is located around 100 kilometres southwest of Tokyo. Mount Fuji, at 3,776 metres in height, is an iconic symbol of Japan. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as a popular hiking destination with spectacular views of the surrounding area. During the months of July and August, the mountain is available to climbers, and many hikers take the nighttime journey to reach the peak in time to view the dawn. Summer is the greatest time to visit because the weather is clear.
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
Located in Hiroshima, this park was established in memorial of the August 6, 1945 atomic bombing of Hiroshima. It is a haven of introspection and serenity, and it includes the A-Bomb Dome. It is the only structure that survived the explosion. The park contains various memorials and monuments, including the Peace Flame, which will burn until nuclear weapons are no longer used.
Nara
Nara was Japan’s first permanent capital and is home to several historic attractions, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site Todaiji Temple. The temple holds the world’s largest bronze Buddha statue, which stands more than 15 metres tall. The city is also famed for its friendly deer. These deer graze freely in Nara Park and are considered sacred messengers of the gods. This place is one of the best in 11 best places to visit in Japan.
Yakushima Island
Yakushima Island is home to historic cedar forests, some of which are over 1,000 years old. The island is also home to numerous unique wildlife species, including the Yakushima macaque, a subspecies of monkey found exclusively on the island. Hiking through the woodlands allows visitors to appreciate the island’s natural beauty, which includes waterfalls and hot springs.
Koya-san
Koya-san is a mountain town and the centre of Shingon Buddhism, a style of Buddhism imported to Japan in the 9th century. Visitors can stay in traditional Japanese inns and experience Buddhist monk life, which includes meditation and vegetarian food. There are various temples and shrines in the town, including the Kongobuji Temple and the Okunoin Cemetery.
Miyajima Island
Miyajima Island is a small island in the Seto Inland Sea that is famed for its Itsukushima Shrine, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The shrine is built over water and appears to float during high tide, creating a breathtaking picture. Visitors may also feed the friendly deer roaming the island and sample the local cuisine, which includes oysters and Momiji manju, a delicious pastry filled with red bean paste.
Shirakawa-go
Shirakawa-go is a remote village famous for its traditional thatched-roof dwellings, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The community is located in a mountainous terrain and is especially beautiful in the winter when the cottages are blanketed in snow. Visitors can stay in one of the traditional houses and experience local life, as well as sample local cuisine such as soba noodles and grilled river fish.
Kanazawa
Kanazawa is a historic city on Japan’s west coast famed for its well-preserved samurai and geisha districts. Visitors can meander through the small alleyways, appreciate the ancient architecture, and visit the Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s three most beautiful gardens. Visitors can taste gold leaf ice cream and other gold leaf goods in the city, which is also known for its gold leaf manufacture.
Ise Grand temple
Dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu, the Ise Grand Shrine is Japan’s most prominent Shinto temple. The shrine is renovated every 20 years using traditional methods, and the current structures date from 2013. Visitors can learn about the history and customs of Shintoism as well as visit the shrine’s gorgeous surroundings.
Takayama
Takayama is a small town in the Japanese Alps famous for its well-preserved Edo-era architecture. Visitors can walk through the old streets, visit traditional dwellings, and sample local cuisine such as Hida beef and sake. There are also various museums and galleries in town, including the Takayama Museum of History and Art.
Kurokawa Onsen
Kurokawa Onsen is a hot spring village in Kyushu that is famous for its traditional Japanese inns and peaceful hot springs. Visitors can relax in the natural hot springs while admiring the surrounding trees and mountains. The village is particularly famous for its traditional Japanese architecture and cuisine, which includes grilled river fish and sweet potato ice cream.
Finally, Japan offers a distinct blend of modernity and heritage, making it an enticing destination for visitors from all over the world. There are several historic and natural things to explore. These sites are ranging from the renowned Mount Fuji to the tranquil Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. Visitors can also learn about traditional Japanese culture in sites like Koya-san, Takayama, and Shirakawa-go. we include 11 best places to visit in Japan, for you to choose from.
Japan is also famous for its delectable cuisine. These includes everything from sushi and ramen to regional specialties like Hida beef and oysters from Miyajima Island. With so much to see and do, Japan is a must-see for every traveller looking for a one-of-a-kind and unforgettable experience.
