Top 10 Destinations in Japan for UAE Travelers: 2025/2026 Luxury Guide (Halal Food & Cultural Gems!)

Japan, a country that blends old traditions with modern technology, boasts both serene temples and shrines as well as bustling urban landscapes. There are exquisite kaiseki dinners and international cuisine with diverse flavors.

For Muslim travelers, Japan is a friendly country. There are mosques and halal restaurants in many major cities. In this guide, we will provide you with practical insights about any aspects of your Japan tour from UAE, including 10 top Japan destinations, the best time to visit Japan, Muslim-friendly travel tips, and more.

10 Top Destinations for UAE Tourists in Japan

For Muslim travelers, Japan is ideal. There are halal-certified restaurants and mosques in tourist cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. For example, the Tokyo Camii, located in Shibuya Ward, is one of the largest and most famous mosques in Japan.

Here are the selected 10 best places to visit in Japan for UAE travelers.

1. Tokyo: The Ultimate Urban Adventure

As the capital of Japan, Tokyo is an excellent starting point for exploring modern Japan and traditional culture. You can explore ancient shrines and temples while experiencing cutting-edge technology and bustling streets.

You can visit the oldest and most famous Senso-ji Temple in Tokyo and experience the culture of the Edo period. Climb up Tokyo Skytree and overlook the unparalleled panoramic view of the city. Witness the stunning crowds of Shibuya Crossing, known as "the world's busiest crossroads", from the observation deck of Shibuya Sky.

TeamLab Planets' interactive exhibitions allow you to immerse yourself in a diverse range of digital artworks. Shopping is a must-do thing to do in Japan during your Japan tours. Ginza is a high-end shopping area with luxury brands, while Akihabara offers anime, manga, electronics, and games.

Your Japan tour from UAE wouldn't be complete without visiting a local market (like Tsukiji Outer Market) for fresh sushi and seafood. Various halal-certified restaurants can be found in Tokyo. Ninja Yakiniku is a family-friendly halal-certified restaurant, providing A5 wagyu and a prayer space. Ayam Ya and Naritaya are popular halal ramen restaurants.

Main mosques: If you want to pray, you can head to Tokyo Camii mosque, which is large enough to accommodate approximately 1,200 worshipers. There is a cultural center on the first floor, and you can even purchase Turkey souvenirs. Asakusa mosque is located near Asakusa Temple. You can worship while visiting Asakusa Sensoji Temple. Other mosques you can consider: the Arabic Islamic Institute mosque, Otsuka Masjid, and Shibuya Mushalla.

2. Kyoto: The Cultural Heart of Japan

Kyoto is one of the best cultural destinations in Japan, with over 2,000 shrines and temples, including 17 UNESCO Heritage Sites.

It is recommended to avoid crowds and head to Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine early in the morning. Stroll along winding hiking trails composed of the iconic thousands of vermilion torii gates. The exterior walls of the Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion) are covered with gold foil. The scenery is breathtakingly beautiful when the golden temple is reflected in the mirror-like lake.

Arashiyama is an ideal spot for pink cherry blossoms in spring and colorful autumn foliage in autumn. Arashiyama Bamboo Forest offers a place to take in tranquility and with a sense of Zen. You can take a rickshaw tour or walk through the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest.

The atmosphere of Kyoto is suitable for immersive experiences of the traditional tea ceremony and kimono dress-up. You can experience traditional tea ceremonies and discover Geisha culture with a private geisha performance at the Gion District.

Kaiseki is a must-try local cuisine in Kyoto. For Muslim travelers, you can visit halal-friendly kaiseki restaurants, such as Honke Tankuma Honten and Minokichi. If you stay overnight at a traditional ryokan, you can also get a cultural exploration, aside from the wonderful seasonal ingredients.

Main mosques: There are undoubtedly many mosques, such as Kyoto Mosque, Kyoto Central Masjid, Kyoto Islamic Cultural Center, As Salam Hall, and Masjid Al-Huda. Kyoto Mosque is located in the city center, near the Imperial Palace. As an important place of worship for tourists and local Muslims, there are also shops selling halal food nearby.

3. Osaka: Culinary Adventures & Family Fun

Osaka is known as the "kitchen of Japan" and is renowned for its culinary culture of "kuidaore (eat until you drop)". Dotonbori is a food landmark in Osaka, offering both bustling street snacks like takoyaki and okonomiyaki, as well as high-end kaiseki cuisine.

For Muslim tourists, you have a wide range of choices at halal-friendly eateries, such as Matsuri (a prayer-friendly restaurant with a prayer space), Naritaya Osaka, and Ali's Kitchen (Middle Eastern-flavored dishes). Kuromon Market offers an array of goods, from fresh seafood and local snacks to souvenirs.

Osaka Castle is one of the three famous castles in Japan. The museum in Osaka Castle Tower displays historical artifacts of the era of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, while the viewing area on the top floor provides a panoramic view of Osaka. The surrounding garden is a great place for walking and admiring cherry blossoms in spring. The UAE Pavilion at Osaka Expo 2025 is one of the must-see exhibitions, with the theme of "Earth to Ether."

Osaka is an ideal destination for family trips, featuring not only historical sites but also interesting amusement parks. Universal Studios Japan is a world-class theme park with popular areas such as Harry Potter and Minions. Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is famous for its huge whale shark.

Main mosques: Osaka Mosque is located in the center of Osaka, with a prayer hall, a women's prayer room, and Halal shops. You can also pray at Masjid Istiqlal Osaka, Osaka Ibaraki Mosque, and Osaka Islamic Center. There are three prayer rooms at Kansai International Airport and a prayer room at JR Osaka Station.

4. Mount Fuji & Hakone: Scenic Serenity

It's perfect to start a day tour of Mount Fuji and Hakone from Tokyo. Mount Fuji allows you to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in Japan's most magnificent natural scenery.

Mount Fuji, as a symbol of Japan, has different scenery throughout the four seasons. In July and August, you can climb Mount Fuji from Mt Fuji 5th Station. The iconic pictures of Chureito Pagoda, Mount Fuji, and cherry blossoms/red leaves can be taken at Arakurayama Sengen Park.

Lake Kawaguchi is a great spot to capture the stunning views of "upside down Fuji" and enjoy boat rides. The surrounding onsen hotels and ryokans boast private outdoor onsens with a beautiful view of Mount Fuji.

Hakone is known for its volcanic baths, lakes, and the scenery of Mount Fuji. Take a tour of the beautiful Lake Ashi on a pirate ship, and you can enjoy a postcard-like view of Mount Fuji from the lake. Don't miss the Hakone Open-air Museum, where you can see some sculptures and artworks.

Main mosques: The Fujikawaguchiko Masjid is situated at Lake Kawaguchi, offering halal food and a panoramic view of Mount Fuji.

5. Nara: Ancient Treasures & Deer Parks

Nara has some of Japan's oldest and most important temples, as well as freely roaming deer. Nara's deer are regarded as "messengers of the gods". At Nara Park, you can interact with deer and purchase "deer crackers" to feed them.

Todai-ji Temple is the largest wooden structure in the world, housing a 15-meter-tall Vairocana Buddha. Kasuga Shrine is renowned for its over 3,000 stone lanterns and bronze lanterns. Mount Wakakusa is located within Nara Park. You can hike up the mountain for about 30-45 minutes and reach the top, where you can overlook Nara city.

You can savor halal ramen at Naramachi Jinniyah and other Muslim-friendly restaurants, like Umemori Saidaiji (for sushi and tempura) and Umemori Halal Deli (for sushi and washoku).

Main mosques: If it's time for prayer, you can visit Nara Masjid. And there is a prayer room at the Nara Visitor Centre.

6. Hokkaido: Wonderland & Summer Nature

Hokkaido is the northernmost island in Japan, boasting magnificent natural landscapes, world-class powder snow, delicious daily products, and fresh seafood.

Hokkaido in winter is a popular ski resort. Niseko Ski Resort and Furano Ski Resorts, with high-quality powder snow, attract skiing enthusiasts from all over the world. There are family-friendly slopes, suitable for families with children and beginners.

The Sapporo Snow Festival, held every February, displays huge ice and snow sculptures. After lighting up at night, it becomes a dreamlike world of ice and snow.

In summer, the sweeping fields of lavender and other flowers in Furano and Biei form an unbeatable picture. Don't miss fresh seafood (such as crabs and sea urchins) and delicious dairy products (such as ice cream and cheese).

Main mosques: Sapporo Masjid is a serene place of worship. Otaru Mosque is also known as Al Noor Masjid, which sells Halal food.

7. Okinawa: Tropical Escape

Okinawa, the southernmost archipelago of Japan, boasts a unique Ryukyuan culture and pristine beaches. Okinawa is warm all year round and is a popular destination for diving and enjoying the beach. Cape Manzamo features the Elephant Trunk cliff, and you can enjoy the beautiful sunset over the sea.

Shurijo Castle is a UNESCO-listed Ryukyu Kingdom heritage, where you can explore the history and culture of Okinawa.

Churaumi Aquarium is one of the largest Marine aquariums in the world, where you can appreciate whale sharks and colorful coral reefs. Immerse yourself in Okinawan culture at Ryukyu Mura (Ryukyu Village), which is a small theme park.

Main mosques: Okinawa Masjid is the main place for Muslims to pray. Other prayer facilities include prayer rooms at the Naha Airport and Aeon Mall Okinawa Rycom.

8. Hiroshima & Miyajima: Peaceful Reflection and Island Serenity

Hiroshima is a city that carries a heavy history and is full of hope. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the Atomic Bomb Dome are must-visit historical landmarks. It is to commemorate the victims of the atomic bomb explosion in 1945 and call for world peace. The Atomic Bomb Dome is listed as a World Cultural Heritage site and is one of the few buildings preserved after the atomic bomb explosion.

Miyajima Island (Itsukushima) can be easily reached from Hiroshima Station by JR train and ferry. Miyajima, the famous "Island of the Gods," is renowned for its Itsukushima Shrine and floating torii gate built on the sea. At high tide, the vermilion torii seems to float on the sea.

Mount Misen is the highest peak of Miyajima Island, where you can appreciate the breathtaking view of the Seto Inland Sea and Hiroshima. You can take the cable car or hike (1.5 to 2 hours) to the mountain top.

Main mosques: Hiroshima Islamic Cultural Centre holds regular prayers five times a day with a separate women-only floor.

9. Kobe: Most Stunning Night View

Shop to your heart's content in upscale shopping districts such as Sannomiya and Kobe Harborland, which feature fashion boutiques, department stores, and specialty restaurants. In Sannomiya, you can also visit Ikuta Shrine, a Shinto shrine.

Kitano district is an iconic historical district in Kobe, where you can admire well-preserved Western-style houses. Strolling through the alleys, you can explore the restaurants, bars, and boutiques along the streets. From the observation deck of Kobe Port Tower, you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of Kobe.

Mount Rokko offers a panoramic view of Kobe and Osaka Bay. You can take the Rokko Cable Car up Mount Rokko, a place to take in the "million-dollar" night view of Kobe. There are hiking routes on Mount Rokko for outdoor enthusiasts. Along the way, you can observe local wildlife and scenic beauty.

If you are considering what to do in Kobe, you must taste the world-renowned Wagyu and soak in hot springs. You can look for Kobe beef restaurants that offer halal certification or halal options, such as Tsuki Usagi and Kobe Beef Steak SAKURA. Arima Onsen is one of the three ancient hot springs in Japan, which is famous for Kinsen (gold water) and Ginsen (silver water).

Main mosques: Kobe Mosque is Japan's first mosque for Muslim travelers to pray. The Hyogo Mosque is another place to pray in Kobe.

10. Fukuoka: Beach & Leisure

There is nothing more representative of Fukuoka's food culture than "yatai street food". You can taste various street foods at open-air food stands and soak in the special nighttime atmosphere. Suggested local delicacies include yakitori (Japanese skewered chicken), oden (hot pot dish), and Hakata Ramen.

The 590-meter-long Tenjin Underground Mall is the largest underground shopping street in Kyushu, with over 150 stores, including fashion clothing, groceries, cosmetics, books, and various restaurants. Nokonoshima Island is an excellent place to get close to nature and enjoy a peaceful time. Throughout the year, you can appreciate different types of flowers, such as yellow rapeseed flowers, cherry blossoms, sunflowers, plum blossoms, and more.

Fukuoka is also a great place to relax by the seaside, with world-class beaches. You can take a walk along the coastline or try water activities. If you enjoy your trip to Japan with kids, you can discover family-friendly spots, like Ohori Park, Marine World Uminonakamichi, and Seaside Momochi.

Main mosques: For Muslim tourists, you can pray at Fukuoka Mosque (Al-Nour Islamic Centre).

Best Time to Visit Japan for UAE Tourists

Spring (March to May) is the most popular season in Japan, especially famous for the cherry blossoms. From late March to early April, everywhere is covered with pink flowers, making it an excellent time for flower viewing and photography. The weather in spring is mild and pleasant, but it is also the season with the largest crowds and experience accommodation.

Summer (June to August) sees a peak in fireworks displays and local festivals. If you plan your Japan tour with kids during the summer holiday, you can head to Okinawa and enjoy crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches.

The autumn season (September to November) is cool with clear days and refreshing air, making it the best time to enjoy the red leaves in Japan. You can also taste seasonal delicacies such as matsutake mushrooms and chestnuts.

Winter (December to February) is the best time to experience snow scenery, hot springs, and ice and snow activities. The powder snow in Hokkaido, Nagano, and other regions attracts skiing enthusiasts.

Japan Travel Tips for UAE Visitors

Visa & Documentation

UAE passport holders can enjoy the Japan visa-free policy when traveling to Japan. This means that you can enter Japan for a visit of no more than 90 days without applying for a visa in advance. Other UAE residents can apply for an e-visa to Japan.

Halal Food Guide & Prayer Facilities

Want to get an authentic taste of Japan? Wagyu beef, crispy Tempura, Soba noodles, Sushi, and Sashimi are must-try Muslim-friendly foods in Japan. Japanese ramen noodles are usually cooked with pork bones. You can taste chicken ramen or look for a ramen shop with a halal menu.

Mosques in big cities (like Tokyo Camii, Kyoto Mosque, and Osaka Mosque) and prayer rooms at some airports or stations are available for worship.

If you are looking for more options of halal restaurants and prayer space when you travel from UAE to Japan, you will want to use some essential tools, like Halal Navi, Halal Japan, and Halal Gourmet Japan.

Payment

Although credit cards are widely accepted by hotels, stores, restaurants, etc., cash payments are still indispensable in many small shops, temples, and rural areas. It is recommended to prepare some Japanese yen in cash in advance, at least ¥10,000 (about $70). IC cards, like the Suica, can not only be used for transportation, but also for payment.

Transportation

If you embark on a cross-regional Japan trip from UAE (like traveling from Tokyo to Osaka or Kyoto), you can purchase a Japan Railway Pass (JR Pass) to save costs. In the city, the efficient and convenient subway and bus system can easily take you to most of the major attractions in Japan.

If you want to have a better experience, especially in dealing with halal food and prayer space, you can consider the Japan tour packages of Hi Five Trip. We can design personalized itineraries and provide professional Muslim-friendly services.

Luxury Japan Itineraries for UAE Families

10-Day Japan Delight Tour for Muslim Families with Kids

This is a family travel itinerary suitable for families with kids. The itinerary combines culture and entertainment, including attractions suitable for all ages, such as Tokyo Disneyland and Universal Studios Osaka.

10-Day Japan Luxury Tour for Muslim Travelers

This Japan tour is the first choice for Muslim travelers who pursue high-quality travel experiences, covering classic cities such as Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and Hakone.

9-Day Japan Highlights Tour from UAE

This Japan tour package is suitable for tourists who have limited time but wish to experience the essence of Japan. This itinerary focuses on the three major cities of Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, and adds day tours of Mount Fuji and Hakone.

Plan Your Japan Tour from UAE with Hi Five Trip

Have you ever encountered the inconvenience of searching for Muslim-friendly restaurants and prayer facilities when travelling from UAE to Japan? Our Japan tour package from UAE is tailored to your specific needs.