10 Best Places to Visit in Japan for 2025

Planning your Japan tour but unsure what is the best city to visit in Japan? Japan is an enchanting destination in Asia, full of cultural and beautiful places to visit. Most people who visit Japan for the first time will travel to Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, which are the 3 best cities to visit in Japan. Besides these three classical destinations, what other cities are worth adding to your Japan tour plan? Read this article and get knowledge of the top 10 best places to visit in Japan, especially for first timers.

1. Tokyo

As the capital of Japan, Tokyo is undoubtedly the best place to visit in Japan. It is a city of culture, shopping, and entertainment with so many highlights to explore. If you have enough time, we suggest you spend 2-3 days exploring Tokyo in depth.

If you want to discover Japanese culture, you can travel to Sensoji Temple, the oldest temple in Tokyo. You can put incense in the censer in front of the main hall and pray for good luck. Try a wide and diverse variety of snacks in Nakamise-dori Street. Head to the Tokyo National Museum and visit precious cultural relics and artworks. Enjoy a wonderful Kabuki performance with traditional Japanese dance in a theater.

Travel to Meiji Shrine, a popular shrine in Tokyo. Many Japanese people hold their weddings in this shrine. Visit the main residence of the Emperor of Japan — the Imperial Palace, and learn about the history of Japanese emperors. Find a Japanese-style tearoom and enjoy a cup of tea. You can learn about the culture, history, and ritual of tea. Enjoy the spiritual satisfaction and peace of mind that tea brings you.

If you prefer shopping and buying souvenirs, you can go to the bustling business district — Shinjuku City, Harajuku, Ginza, and Shibuya Sky. The colorful neon lights here will dazzle you. You can traverse the stores and streets, and feel the lively urban atmosphere. Whether you like shopping, entertainment, or delicious food, these places can meet your needs.

You can take a stroll to Akihabara, and learn about Japanese anime culture. Akihabara is full of anime, games, models, and garage kits. Tokyo Tower is one of the landmarks in Tokyo. You can ascend the main observation deck of Tokyo Tower, and get a bird’s-eye view of Tokyo. Especially when it is in the evening, the lighting of Tokyo Tower is more beautiful.

2. Kyoto

Kyoto is one of the best cities to visit in Japan besides Tokyo. It retains a large number of ancient buildings and cultural heritages. You can experience the mixture of history and modernity in Kyoto.

You can visit Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, one of the most representative scenic spots in Kyoto. Walk through the Senbon Torii (Thousand Torii Gates) in a kimono. Senbon Torii is the most absorbing attraction in Fushimi Inari Taisha. Vermillion red torii gateways line up all the way to the top of the Summit of Mt. Inari, which forms a road like a tunnel.

Wander through a picturesque and winding path in Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and discover Japan’s abundant history, culture, and superb architectural skills. The Stage of Kiyomizu is one of the most famous sights in Kiyomizu-dera. It is a wooden platform hanging over the edge of a cliff. If you visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple in spring and autumn, you can enjoy beautiful cherry blossoms and falling leaves.

If you want to explore more about Kyoto, visit Gion and Kinkakuji Temple are also good choices. In Gion, you may have a chance to watch many performances, such as Kyomai Dance (a kind of traditional Japanese dance), Bunraku Puppet Theater, and Koto Harp (a 13-stringed zither). you will learn about traditional Japanese arts and culture. Of course, Kyoto also has its modern side. You can see the fruits of modern technology and urban development in Kyoto when you head to Kyoto Station and Kyoto Tower.

3. Osaka

As one of the best places to visit in Japan, Osaka offers varied and light entertainment. It is a city with plenty of nightlife. Of course, you can also experience Japan's long history and splendid culture.

From Dotonbori to Shinsaibashisuji, this journey will let you admire the charming night view in Osaka. There are a variety of brand stores and specialty shops, which will let you enjoy the fun of shopping. You can have a walk in the street, and watch some buskers’ performances. Or you can enjoy a boat ride along the river and appreciate the beautiful night view and attractions nearby. Pause to find a restaurant or snack stand, and taste some local food, such as takoyaki octopus balls and ramen.

Osaka Castle is an ideal place to explore Japan’s culture. Osaka Castle is one of the three famous cities in Japanese history. There are many scenic gardens surrounding the Osaka Castle. You can climb to Osaka Castle Main Tower, and look out over outstanding natural beauty and old buildings. If you are lucky, you may have a chance to experience all kinds of activities and celebrations, like traditional culture exhibitions and sakura matsuri.

Discover Expo'70 Commemorative Park, a historic site held Japan World Exposition in 1970, the first world's fair hosted in Asia. The Sun Monument is a landmark, which is created by the renowned artist Taro Okamoto. Now it has become a popular cherry blossom spot in Osaka.

4. Nara

Nara has so many ancient shrines and temples. Todaiji Temple, Kofukuji Temple, and Kasuga Taisha Shrine are worth visiting. Todaiji Temple houses one of Japan's largest bronze Buddha statues. On February 3rd of every year, there is a Setsubun Mantoro Festival (Lantern Festival) at Kasuga Taisha Shrine. More than 3000 stone lanterns and brass lanterns will be lit. Hanging out in the Nara Park, you will meet lively and friendly deer. You can try to feed them, have a close encounter with them, and take some photos. Explore Nara Park on foot, walk on a tree-lined path, and enjoy some quiet time. Spend half an hour climbing up Mount Wakakusa, and look far down into the Nara scenery. Head to the Nara National Museum, which has many valuable artworks from the Nara period, including paintings, sculptures, potteries, and ancient relics.

There are countless places to enjoy cherry blossoms all over Japan. Mount Yoshino in Nara is one of the best places to visit cherry blossom with about 30,000 cherry trees. In spring, you can walk on a winding path in the mountain, and lose yourself in cherry blossoms blossoming all over the mountain. The flowering of Mt. Yoshino is around early to late April.

5. Sapporo

If you enjoy snowy scenery, we suggest you travel to Hokkaido. As one of the best cities to visit Japan in winter, Sapporo in Hokkaido is definitely for you. Sapporo is covered by snow in winter. You can appreciate stunning snow scenes, and try some snow events to your heart’s content. Exciting skiing and sledding are must-play items. Besides, every February, the Sapporo Snow Festival will display amazing ice sculptures.

Of course, Sapporo offers more than just winter beauty. Odori Park is a great place for all seasons. The flowers in the park change seasonally, and you can always appreciate different scenery, like lilac, cherry blossom, and rose. Shiroi Koibito Park holds a light show too. It is a classical castle that combines chocolate production, display, and sales.

Stroll along Tanukikoji Shopping Street, head to Nijo Market, and dive into local life. Sit down in a Japanese izakaya (similar to tapas) and taste some delicious food and sake (Japanese rice wine). Ascend Sapporo TV Tower, overlook the Sapporo urban area, and enjoy the view of the Sea of Japan in the distance.

6. Hiroshima

If you are interested in the history of World War II, don’t miss Hiroshima. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park was built in 1945 near the epicenter of the atomic bombing during World War II. You can head to the park, visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and the iconic Atomic Bomb Dome, and mourn victims in front of the monuments.

Besides the Atomic bomb site, Itsukushima (also known as Miyajima) is also a good place to visit. You can explore Itsukushima Shrine, the landmark attraction in Itsukushima. It is a shrine on the sea. When the tide comes in, you may see the red Torii gate and shrine as if they are floating on the sea. The O-Torii (Grand Torii Gate) on the sea is a great photo spot. You can take the cable car up Mount Misen or hike to the top, and enjoy a panoramic view of Seto Inland Sea.

Shimanami Kaido Cycling Route is a scenic 70 km-long bike route, connecting six islands. For cycling enthusiasts, this is definitely a fun trip.

7. Nikko

Nikko is a place full of natural scenery and Japanese culture. It is one of the most important religious centers.

You can step onto Shinkyo Bridge, and learn about its legendary story. Visit Futaarasan Shrine, which is built to worship the three main mountain gods of Nikko. Take a walk in the shrine, and appreciate its enchanting view and towering old trees. Visit Nikko Toshogu Shrine, and feel the sanctity of religion. You can marvel at the luxurious, colourful, and beautifully carved buildings.

Venture to Nikko National Park, and get close to nature. There are three mountains — Mount Nantai, Mt. Nyoho, and Mt. Taro. You can hike and climb up these mountains and explore their mystery. You will find many hiking trails around Lake Chuzenji. Have a walk by the lake, and admire the landscape of the lake and the beautiful Mount Nantai. You can hire a boat and enjoy a refreshing moment on the lake.

8. Hakone

Hakone is located in the western part of Kanagawa. It is famous for its breathtaking natural scenery and rich hot spring resources. If you like hot springs, Hakone is the best city to visit in Japan. As one of the major onsen towns in the Kanto region, Hakone has many hot spring resorts. You can find a hot spring hotel in the mountains. Soothe your body and mind in a hot spring while experiencing nature.

Owakudani volcanic valley is a wonder of Hakone. You can take the Hakone Ropeway up to Owakudani in Mt. Hakone, and appreciate the meandering valley on your way. Don’t forget to taste a local delicacy — kurotamago (black egg). Kurotamago is a kind of egg that is boiled in hot spring water and its shells will turn black.

Lake Ashi is a highlight in Hakone. The clear lake water reflects the surrounding mountains. You can take a boat ride on the lake, and overlook Mt. Fuji. Or you can stroll around the lake, feel the breeze on your face, and immerse yourself in a quiet atmosphere.

9. Mount Fuji

Even if you've never been to Japan, you must know Mount Fuji before. Mount Fuji is located in the south-central part of Honshu and stretches across Shizuoka and Yamanashi. There are five lakes around Mount Fuji — Lake Yamanaka, Lake Kawaguchi, Saiko Lake, Lake Shoji, and Lake Motosu. The fusion of the lake scenery and Mount Fuji offers a picturesque view. The reflection of Mt. Fuji in the lake is part of its charm.

Go sightseeing along the foot of Mt. Fuji, or ride a bike, and admire the view of Mt. Fuji from different angles. On a sunny day, you can climb up Mt. Fuji, and enjoy the beauty along the way. You can overlook the whole of Japan, and feel its magnificence. Besides, the five lakes of Mt.Fuji, there are many other attractions, like Oshino Hakkai (Eight Seas of Oshino) and Oishi Park.

10. Okinawa

Okinawa is located in the southernmost part of Japan, which is a chain of islands. It is an exotic seaside vacation paradise with white beaches, turquoise water, and water activities, like underwater diving and surfing. Okinawa has various islands. You can visit these islands one by one and explore their natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

Enjoy a stroll on a quiet bay, walk on the fine white sand, and bathe in the warm sunshine. You can put on your diving equipment, snorkel in clear blue water, and observe colourful coral formations and underwater creatures. Head to Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, meet a whale shark and rare fish and watch an outdoor dolphin show.

Further Reading

● Best Time to Visit Japan: When to Go & When to Avoid!