Top 10 Places to Visit in Japan
Japan blew me away with its neon cities, ancient temples, and unforgettable food. I visited Tokyo twice — once on a whirlwind three-day trip and again in 2024 for a longer adventure — and both times felt like I had only scratched the surface. Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea were a dream come true for me as a huge Disney fan, while exploring Osaka’s castle, neon-lit Dotonbori, and food stalls gave me a taste of Japan’s “kitchen city.” I also caught glimpses of Mount Fuji that felt surreal, like a painting come to life.
But there’s still so much more I want to see. Next time, Kyoto’s temples, Nara’s bowing deer, and even Universal Studios in Osaka are all high on my list. Here are my top 10 places to visit in Japan:
1. Tokyo 🌆 🌟 Did This
Japan’s capital is a city of contrasts — towering skyscrapers and glowing billboards sit alongside quiet shrines and historic neighborhoods. I explored Shibuya Crossing, Asakusa’s temples, and Harajuku’s colorful Takeshita Street. As a huge Disney fan, Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea were absolute highlights — DisneySea is unlike any park in the world.
💡 JD’s Tip: Go up the Skytree just before sunset — you’ll see Tokyo in daylight and then sparkling at night.
Exploring the only DisneySea in the world — pure Tokyo magic!
2. Kyoto 🏯 ❌ Missed This
The heart of traditional Japan, with thousands of temples, gardens, and teahouses. From the endless red torii gates at Fushimi Inari to the bamboo groves of Arashiyama, Kyoto feels like stepping back into old Japan. It’s still at the top of my list for next time.
💡 JD’s Tip: Visit Fushimi Inari early in the morning to experience the gates in peace before the tour groups arrive.
3. Osaka 🍜 🌟 Did This
Osaka is Japan’s kitchen — a city that feels friendlier and more laid-back than Tokyo, but just as exciting. I visited Osaka Castle, rode a boat around its moat, and wandered neon-filled Dotonbori, where giant food signs light up the streets. The energy, the food, and the nightlife made it one of my favorite stops.
💡 JD’s Tip: Don’t leave without trying takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancake) from street stalls.
From ancient battles to modern beauty, Osaka Castle is unforgettable.
4. Mount Fuji 🗻 🌟 Did This
Japan’s most famous peak rises dramatically above the landscape. I didn’t climb it, but even seeing Fuji on a clear day felt magical — the kind of view that doesn’t look real until you’re standing there. Whether from Tokyo’s skyline or the Fuji Five Lakes region, it’s a sight that stays with you.
💡 JD’s Tip: Hakone and Lake Kawaguchi are two of the best spots for Fuji views — and they’re easy day trips from Tokyo.
The perfect Fuji view — serene, powerful, and unforgettable.
5. Hiroshima & Miyajima Island 🕊️ ❌ Missed This
Hiroshima is a city of resilience, with its Peace Memorial Park and moving Atomic Bomb Dome. Nearby Miyajima Island is home to the “floating” torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine, one of Japan’s most iconic images. Together they represent both reflection and beauty.
💡 JD’s Tip: Spend a night on Miyajima to see the torii gate glowing at dusk — most day-trippers miss it.
6. Nara 🦌 ❌ Missed This
A short trip from Kyoto or Osaka, Nara is home to massive Buddha statues and friendly deer that wander freely through the parks. The Great Buddha Hall at Todai-ji Temple is one of the largest wooden buildings in the world. It’s a mix of history and whimsy that I can’t wait to see.
💡 JD’s Tip: Bring crackers for the deer, but guard your map or bag — they’re cheeky and will grab anything!
7. Hokkaido ❄️ ❌ Missed This
Japan’s northern island feels completely different — famous for powder snow, winter festivals, and steaming hot springs. In summer, fields of lavender and wildflowers cover the hills. It’s the place for both adventure and quiet natural beauty.
💡 JD’s Tip: Visit in February for Sapporo’s Snow Festival, when giant snow and ice sculptures take over the city.
8. Okinawa 🏝️ ❌ Missed This
Tropical Japan — with coral reefs, turquoise waters, and a unique Ryukyu heritage. Okinawa offers a slower pace, perfect for beaches and diving, with a culture that blends Japanese and Southeast Asian influences.
💡 JD’s Tip: Try Okinawan soba noodles — completely different from mainland soba.
9. Kanazawa 🎨 ❌ Missed This
Known for samurai districts, geisha teahouses, and Kenrokuen, one of Japan’s most celebrated gardens. Kanazawa offers a quieter, less touristy alternative to Kyoto but with just as much charm.
💡 JD’s Tip: The 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art is a great balance to all the historic sites.
10. Nikko 🌲 ❌ Missed This
A mountain town north of Tokyo, Nikko is famous for its ornate shrines set in cedar forests and dramatic waterfalls. It feels like a blend of nature and spirituality.
💡 JD’s Tip: Go in autumn if you can — the fall colors make it one of the most beautiful places in Japan.
