Hiroshima is known as the peace city and the location where the first atomic bomb was dropped in WW2. With pine forests, sheer cliffs, and mountains, the landscape offers an endless amount of photo spots and hiking options. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Japan - 2023 (with Photos) - Tripadvisor Situated in the Tochigi Prefecture, Nikko is surrounded by the Japanese Alps. Heres the bullet train ticket from Tokyo to Aomori! Since 2016 she lives in the Taito Ward, home to a lot of Japanese culture hotspots such as Asakusa, Akihabara, and Ueno. For example, you can have a romantic moment with your loved one at theTempozan Giant Ferris Wheelas you share things with each other while taking in the panoramic view of the Osaka Bay. There are many viewpoints to enjoy here; for the best, meander over to the cable car and head up for a birds-eye view. Ideal for hiking, the area is home to a number of scenic walking trails along the base of Mount Asama. If you prefer this style of travel, Saitama is the place for you. Combine that with beautiful, rolling hills, and youd be forgiven for thinking youd stepped into southern France. Nowadays it has a population of about 116,000 people but you wont find any samurai around.Aizu Wakamatsu is also known for its traditional handicraft of Aizu lacquerware with the iconic contrast of red and black, a perfect souvenir when you visit there. Cost of living is cheaper in Yokohama than other cities, which means that travelers will save money just by living their best livestransportation and meals are cheaper here than Tokyo, for example. 10 Best Places to Visit in Japan in 2023 - Road Affair The magnificent white castle is the biggest and most visited castle in the nation and boasts a rich history and significance. The Top 10 Cities in Japan That Every Tourist Should Visit. One of Japan's top 3 castles, Kumamoto Castle struck awe in the hearts of many visitors, especially castle fans, with its unique curvedmushakaeshi(literally means "samurai return") stone walls that were aimed to deter incoming invaders. Many residents use Saitama as a commuter town, traveling to Tokyo for work during the week. Here you can explore preserved Edo-period, geisha, and samurai districts as well as winding streets and beautiful buildings. p.parentNode.insertBefore(s,p); What are the best cities to visit in Japan? Dont miss out on the best of Sendai and deepen your Japan experience! The Abundant Hot Springs in Beppu Meant Only to be Seen. 1. Get our travel tips Delivered to your inbox. To immerse yourself in the history of Japans international relations, you really cant find a better place. Tokyo is the capital city of Japan and the most populous metropolitan area in the world. Kumamoto people are determined to restore the castle to its former glory, so it is still a great idea to visit it and see the massive fortress from outside. Tokyo Travel Guide Japan #2 in Best Places to Visit in Asia. Indeed, a refined city by day, a happening city by night! The sheer size of the city is exciting in itself. What is noteworthy is the opulence of the building. Tourists at Kiyomizu Temple in Kyoto, Japan, earlier this year. For another, it charms visitors with its original culture, which sets it apart from the rest of Japan. Tokyo, the Capital City of Japan. Osaka was the first city I visited in Japan and my overall favourite, its one of the best cities to visit in Japan. Nikko is beautiful. The 20 best places to see in Japan for first timers - Travelfornoobs Tokyo is the capital of Japan, which offers captivating tourist spots and is also a great place to live as a. Kyoto. Kurashiki City is a fantastic city blessed with water and a well preserved canal district that dates back to the Edo Period. READ MORE: Discover why Japan is one of the best and safest places in the world for solo female travel. The devastation was heartbreaking, and visitors can pay their respects today at attractions like the Peace Park. Stay informed of the best travel tips to Japan, the most exciting things to do and see, and the top experiences to have with the Japan Wonder Travel Newsletter. READ MORE: Are you a foodie? Home to Japans busiest airport and located about 60 kilometres away from Tokyo, tourists tend to leave Narita out of the itinerary. The local speciality is okonomiyaki, a Japanese savoury pancake, and it is delicious. While Tokyo can seem overwhelmingly fast paced at times, Yokohama's welcoming vibe is definitely more relaxed. The metro area is excellent to explore on foot, and the parks are beautiful. No list of the best cities in Japan would be complete without the former capital city; Kyoto. This article presents and introduces you to wonderful cities in Japan, from those in the north to those cities located in the south of Japan! The 4 Best Cities to Visit in Japan According to Locals The picturesque city is famous for its small rivers lined with weeping willow trees. Aizu-Wakamatsu is a samurai town located in Fukushima prefecture. The city hosts a winter festival every February, The Otaru Snow Light Path Festival, during which the streets are illuminated by glittering lanterns and small snow statues are popping up everywhere. Mount Fuji. You can see thousands of years of history by exploring temples like the Kinkaku-ji and historic sites such as Kyoto Imperial Palace. Theres a fantastic mixture of attractions in Sapporo. Moreover, it is easily accessible as one can reach it via a2.5 hour bullet train ridefrom Tokyo. Here we introduced 15 of the best cities to visit in Japan, from north to south. var s = d.createElement(sc), p = d.getElementsByTagName(sc)[0]; These are the 10 best places to visit for nature lovers in Japan! Naha acts as a hub for the other islands in the region. 3) Takayama. The Japanese have always been known for their precision, reliability and expertise in their craft. Book online now to guarantee seats for a super-smooth journey. Some of the highlights include Toshu-gu, a lavish shrine and the final resting place of the first Tokugawa shogun, and the Buddhist temple Rinno-ji, founded in the eighth century. When you click through and make a purchase we may receive some commission, at no extra cost to you. If you have time, the Osaka aquarium is also worth taking a visit too as its one of the largest in the world. Best cities to visit in Japan - Japan Rail Pass Once every two weeks we will introduce you to our latest content. Table of Contents [ hide] 1 Tokyo 2 Kyoto 3 Osaka 4 Yokohama 5 Nagoya 6 Kobe 7 Fukuoka 8 Hiroshima 9 10 Nara 11 Tokyo A local train will take you to Otaru from Sapporo in about 30 minutes. READ MORE: When is the best time to visit Japan? There is a giant floating torii gate which is one of the largest in Japan. Japan Wonder Travel is a travel agency that offers guided tours throughout Japan. From Tokyo to Sapporo, these are the best cities in Japan for your next adventure. If you want a spa getaway or just to experience the natural wonders in Japan, Beppu is worth visiting. Hiroshima is also famous for its ramen, particularly the Onomichi style; make sure you seek out some of these tasty noodles loaded with flavor. On the other hand, winter aficionados will surely take to the idea of skiing in Sapporo as it is home to many luxurious, yet reasonably-priced ski resorts that enable them to take in its spectacular scenery. For a view of the island and a bit of challenge, you can hike up Taiko rock and see the trees spread out below you. One thing's for sure: you will definitely find a city that appeals to you. Located just 30 minutes south from Tokyo, Yokohama is a large city in Kanagawa Prefecture. My name is Yuan I like your blog, because I really like Japan. For families who would ike to spend some time with Mother Nature, they can look to parks like Asukayama Parkand Yoyogi Park where they can have leisurely walks and scrumptious picnics. Visit some of Kyotos beautiful shrines, including Fushimi Inari, before catching a maiko show in Gion, the city's geisha district. 33 Truly Astounding Places To Visit In Japan - Hostelworld It's agreat way to usher in the festive season with other citizens of the world! Stepping foot into Dotonbori, the main tourist area, is an assault on the senses at first. For a day trip, you can check out Japans first aeronautical museum and experience a flight simulator. Do you recognize the name Sapporo? Most winter sports travelers visit either . The information in this article is accurate at the time of publication. Follow this ready-to-use itinerary that will bring you to all the highlights of Kyushu! The Best Cities to Visit in Japan Besides Tokyo - Leave Your Daily Hell Copyright 2020 Travel Wanderlust - All Rights Reserved. Located in the south of Japan, Okinawa Prefectureis on the radar of many travellers' lists. 12 Best Cities To Visit In Japan That Make Your Trip Worth It! While you are in Kobe, check out our dining guide: Top 10 Places to Dine in Kobe. Tsurumi, where they will be rewarded with an unparalleled panoramic view of the mountainscape. The large city is called the water city, thanks to its location between the sea and Lake Shinji. He is a passionate armchair rugby fan who loves to travel the world and explore new ideas. Japan Tourism: Best of Japan About Japan In the Land of the Rising Sun, ancient temples sit alongside neon wonderlands and shinto shrines offer pockets of peace amid metropolises. Indulge in sake at the breweries in Nada while checking out the various museums in Japans district with the top sake production admission is free. Looking to visit therealside of Japan? Sendai has a population of about 1.1 million and is full of attractive sightseeing spots. Tokyo also tops global charts when it comes to the world's best liveable cities - and no wonder. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor. s.async = true; Tokyo When you think of cities in Japan, it's safe to say that Tokyo will be in your top three. All of these big automotive brands were developed in Nagoya. The port city is located in Fukuoka Prefecture. a list of the 10 shopping streets you ought to visit, one of the many izakaya (Japanese-style bars), 7 Must-Visit Kumamoto Tourist Spots Recovering from the 2016 Earthquake, What's Hell? With so much to see and do in Fukushima, it is worth spending at least a few more days in the area to see what the rest of the prefecture has to offer. There are many other things you can do in Tokyo, so here's a great article to inspire some ideas: 50 Things To Do In Tokyo. These Are the Most Beautiful Towns and Cities in Japan - Culture Trip 10 Best Places to Visit for Nature Lovers in Japan Agritourism is a great way to do this! Boastinga towering wooden toriigate that is integrated with steel beams and interweaving glass, it payshomage to its past while looking forward to the future. As the nation's bustling capital, Tokyo leads the world in fashion trends, so it is truly a shoppers' paradise where you can purchase anything you fancy - at your desired budget. For all this and other great sightseeing spots, why not check out our carefully curated travel guide to enjoying Kyoto in all its glory and splendor? The city is known as the City of Trees due to its many natural green plants. When visiting Japan, more often than not, you will land in Tokyo first. If you can't make it to the cultural events in Nankinmachi, don't be too disappointed. When it comes tothings to do in Nikko, the Shinko Bridge is a must. There are about two dozen islands surrounding Okinawa, Japan's favorite vacation spot. Pay your respects at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, commonly called the Genbaku Dome, Atomic Bomb Dome or A-Bomb Dome, and visit the areas museum for a closer delve into the events of that fateful August 6th day. Ask anyone who has visited, and they'll tell you: Japan is easily one of the most stunning places in the world. Got a bit of extra time? After battling to recover from this tragedy, Hiroshima is now an advocate of peace as it advocatesthe abolition of nuclear weapons. We suggest exploring Kitano Village to see Kobes old-school architecture. We have consolidated 11 of the best tourist spots in Kanazawa for you. 6 best summer and year-end festivals happening in Osaka in 2023 - Time Out Makishi Public Market could be a stop on your to-do list as you can try out a yummy mish-mash of influences of Western comfort and signature local dishes, including goya champuru (stir-fried bitter melon with tofu, pork, and eggs) and taco rice (taco fillings served on a rice bowl). Kagoshima, Unzen, and Aso: Venture to Kyushu, where an array of wonders awaits. You will be also intrigued at how new life has been breathed intothe traditional tea houses in the Higashi Chaya District as they have been remarkably preserved and now feature local shops that sell Kanazawa's signature desserts and souvenirs. If you visit Kobe, be prepared to splash out on daily restaurant meals, as its cuisine is too tempting to pass by. However, now, Nara is better known for its serene atmosphere and regal history. A boat ride across Lake Ashi will give you a spectacular view of the famous red torii gate, and on a clear day, youll even get a glimpse of Mount Fuji. Without a doubt Japan's most recognizable landmark, majestic Mount Fuji (Fuji-san) is also the country's highest mountain peak. If Tokyo is the pulsating fashion hub of Japan, Kyoto is then endowed withitsancient soul. If you want to give feedback on any of our articles,you have an idea that you'd really like to see come to life, or you just have a question on Japan, hit us up on ourFacebook,Twitter, orInstagram! In other words, time to shop till you drop. He is yet to visit South America and it's in the top spot on his traveling wishlist. A picture-perfect and highly spiritual destination, centuries-old Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines are surrounded by sweeping natural landscapes in Japans original national park. The namesake capital Aomori City is one of the largest cities in the prefecture with a population of about 290,000. Top cities in Japan to immerse yourself in culture and history. The best seasons to discover Japan are spring and autumn. 8 most dangerous cities in the world - BBC Science Focus Magazine Tokyo has a very well-developed transportation network that is easy to use. Tokyo. The fountain in front of Canal City is a must-see, and fountain shows are sometimes held there. This itinerary includes family-friendly destinations where you can go with your small kids. Nagasaki was one of the two cities that were hit by the atomic bombs, together with Hiroshima. It is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the country let alone just amongst Japans best cities. 1. When visiting Japan, more often than not, you will land in Tokyo first. At 1,212m above sea level, it takes a few hours to climb but will give you a perfect view of the snow-capped Mount Fuji. The winter festival is one of the best in the world, and the winter wonderland spreads 1.5 km full of ice sculptures, an ice skating rink, and sledding areas. One must-see place when visiting Aomori is Nebuta Museum Wa Rasse. Do read ourBest 5 Night Views in Hokkaido That You Won't Want to Miss! However, it is one of the countrys most exciting places to visit. Japan has thousands of hidden gems and is a year-round destination. Night goers will definitely have an exciting time exploring the energetic nightlife scene, said to be one of the hippest in the whole of Japan. Sitting just an hour and a half from Tokyo, I am often amazed at how many people pass Hakone by. What's more, burly men from each contingent will guide one horse which tramps along the noisystreets. If dancing isn't quite your thing, fret not. Compared to some of the more modern cities in Japan, Kyoto feels more traditional, and that is precisely why you should visit. Overall rating: 96.0 Stability: 100 Healthcare: 100 Culture and environment: 86.8 Education: 100 Infrastructure: 96.4 Osaka might be Japan's third-largest city (after Tokyo and Yokohama), but its . The iconic red bridge is the postcard image of Nikko, and you should add it to even the shortest of itineraries. What are thebest things to do in Tokyo? 10 Real Life Locations From Sanctuary: Netflixs Sumo Drama, 15 Typical Japanese Meals at Home and How to Cook Them, 20 Popular Tourist Attractions in Kyoto An Overview Per Area, How to Get Ghibli Museum and Ghibli Park Tickets in 2023, one of the best historical cities of Japan, tour of the disaster area and nuclear power plant, trading center with the Netherlands and Portugal during the Edo period, a beautiful emerald-colored, crystal-clear sea, Tokyo Fish Market Tour @Tsukiji Enjoy Local Food and Drink, Tokyo 1Day Highlights Private Walking Tour (8 Hours). Aomori is known as a major producer of apples in Japan, and many varieties of apples are being grown there. Experts seem to approve; after all, itwas conferred an award in the 9th Venice Biennale International Architecture Exhibition in 2004. Also Yokohama is home to Japans largest Chinatown, Yokohama Chukagai, which also claims to be the worlds best Chinese food spot outside of China. It was the first permanent capital of Japan and retains many of its historical shrines and temples. While these two cities are absolutely a must-see when you are visiting Japan, there are many more beautiful and attractive cities in Japan than those two. You can lose yourself in the mystical world of Harry Potter or unleash your inner child in the world of Minions. It takes place annually in July over two days, with the main festivities . 7 Best Places To Visit In Japan For First Timers Popular Cities in Japan Tokyo Tokyo Prefecture, Japan Kyoto Kyoto Prefecture, Japan Osaka Osaka Prefecture, Japan Nagoya Tokai, Japan Top Attractions in Japan 14 Best Things to Do in Tokyo | U.S. News Travel The city of Sapporo just happens to be the namesake (and birthplace) of one of Japans most famous beer brands. From the stunning hiking trails, islands like Kyushu and the best cities in Japan to visit, there's a little slice of the country that I'm sure everyone will love. Its often associated with images of the torii gate of the sixth century Itsukushima Shrine; during low tide, you can walk up to the gate, but when the tide is high, it appears to float. While these two cities are absolutely a must-see when you are visiting Japan, there are many more beautiful and attractive cities in Japan than those two. Aside from history, Kyoto is also a modern city filled with izakayas, wine bars, and art museums. Pick your base wisely and you might be able to visit more than one of these top destinations in Japan. Whether its taking in the breathtaking views of the skyline in the metropolis or stumbling upon a quaint eatery in a cobbled alley, Japan offers a truly unique experience for each visitor she welcomes. Mastue is less popular than major cities like Tokyo, but those who stray off the beaten path will be richly rewarded. Well, after visiting the city a few times we suggest starting with Tokyo Tower. If you want to explore Japan and learn more about the history and backstories of each area you are visiting, our knowledgeable and friendly English speaking guides will happily take you to the best spots! s.src = u + '?v=' + (+new Date()); Osaka has a strong character, and the port city has a commercial soul with lots going on at all hours of day and night. Enjoy a private, half-day tour of Kurashiki with a government-licensed, multilingual guide. The city's Bikan quarter offers the atmosphere of Amsterdam in Japan Nagasaki Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle. Bulacan execs visit Japan to learn best practices on solid waste management Here, you can try unique food thats been cooked in volcanic waters, making for interesting new flavors. I recommend waking up early and heading up Fushimi Inari Shrine before the crowds come. I equivocate a bit with #5 on the list because while almost all tourists visit the first four, the last is in flux depending on the type of traveler. Use the ropeway at Mt. Some of the highlights include Shibuya and Shinjuku, neon-soaked wards that promise nightlife, restaurants, and shops aplenty. There are a variety of stores, a theater, a movie theater and restaurants to enjoy all day long. The real question is, which of the cities in Japan should you visit? The result is a fusion of European and Japanese culture and influence. However, recently sauna culture has become bigger and bigger. Hakone; Naha; Beppu; Best city in Japan for a gastronomical experience. If you are lucky enough to get a long layover in Narita Airport, I recommend venturing out into the area for a few hidden gems. Top Cities To Visit In Japan Tokyo. Dont miss the chance to discover the hidden treasures of Kamakura! Tsuruga Castle is the biggest tourist attraction in Aizu Wakamatsu City. The history buffs among you must be intrigued tofind out how Hiroshima got back on its feet after World War II. Nikko has a serenity that the major cities in Japan just cant provide. A landmark not to be missed then is theAtomic Bomb Dome, as it is a stark visual reminder of the immediate aftermath of the bomb explosion. The main island Okinawa is the largest resort island in Japan and Naha is the largest city on the island. 1. The 16th-century castle is surrounded by cherry trees and a moat, and Osaka Castle is one of the prettiest places to visit in the city. Visitors can easily balance hiking days and outdoor activities with sightseeing in the Nikko city center. Kamakura, with a population of about 172,000, is dotted with many shrines and temples where you can experience the history of Japan. 16 Unmissable Places to Visit in Japan in 2023 - Never Ending Voyage READ MORE: Amazing Tokyo made our list of the top 10 best cities in the world. Natural diversity is great in Japan, and if you don't mind traveling to a bit more remote areas you will be rewarded with sights you can't see in many other places in the world. Let's dive straight in. Matsue is full of feudal history, historical sites, and beautiful scenery. Introducing the 10 best Japanese cities you ought not to miss, chosen by the tsunagu Japan team. The temples are surrounded by green space and Bambi-look-a-likes cute, we know. A small but very beautiful harbor city is located in the central part of Hokkaido, right next to the prefectural capital Sapporo. The citys main attractions are Fukuoka Castle, Kyushu National Museum, and Dazaifu Tenman-gu, a shrine to the god of education. Family Travel in Japan: 25 Ideas for Exploring Japan with Kids Hokkaido, the northern land of Japan, is known as the kingdom of dairy farming, seafood and the best snow in winter. Some of these resorts even open at night, so you can literally ski from morning till night! While Japan is a largely homogeneous nation, you will be pleasantly surprised to find out how every city still boasts a unique blend of local gourmet options, funky festivals, and amazing landmarks. Sendai is famous for Date Masamune, the great general of Miyagi Prefecture, who is still a great pride for all Sendai citizens. The flamboyant and glittering decorations overwhelm all who see them, and are definitely a photogenic moment. Mao Goto is a Japanese freelancer who was born in Hayama, Kanagawa prefecture and raised in Tokyo. The hike alone made this one of my top cities in Japan. Nikko is one of the smallest cities in Japan. And, if you get a chance, take a scenic boat tour down the Kinugawa River. 1. In this section, you will find everything you need to know about the best cities to visit while in Japan. Visitors to the city can now pay their respects to the victims and destruction at many memorable attractions, including the Peace Park. 1. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Hokkaido and can be visited on a day trip from Sapporo. Courtesy of vladimir zakharov/Getty Images . The beauty of Japan is that there is something for every traveler. Itoshima is a small city which is about a 30 minute drive from Fukuoka City. Here we introduce our 10 days itinerary suitable for a family trip in Japan! So, whats there to see in Saitama?