Attracting visitors with both cultural heritage and modernity, Japan has become one of the most favored countries as a travel destination. It’s always fascinating how Japan is always packed with visitors each year, at least before the pandemic.
According to Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), the number of international travelers visiting Japan hit rock bottom during the pandemic in 2020-2021. However, the trend seemed to get better in the first quarter of 2022.
JNTO reported that there were 16,700 visitors in February. The number increased significantly in March, where 66,1000 visitors were reported to pay a visit to the country.
As the world gets better and travel regulations are constantly loosened, it’s a great time to get a real experience of Japan rather than just watching it over tons of YouTube videos. Let’s take a look at the ten best tourist destinations in Japan that should be on your list!
1. Tokyo
Image via gotokyo
Being the capital city of Japan, Tokyo by far is one of the most visited destinations in the Land of the Rising Sun. There are many places to explore in Tokyo, including the famous and always-crowded Shinjuku and Shibuya.
Not to mention other popular attractions to visit, such as Tokyo Tower, Tokyo Disneyland, Akihabara, and Kaminarimon at Asakusa.
2. Kyoto
Image via Flickr David San Segundo Bello
Leaving behind the city vibes, Kyoto is the perfect destination for people who love to see traditional architecture. You can find ancient temples lined up along the street in Kyoto. Some of the famous temples in Kyoto are Kiyomizu-dera, Kinkaku-ji, and Ginkaku-ji. Travelers can also visit a shrine in the Gion entertainment district.
Moreover, just by driving 20 minutes south of Tokyo, you’ll arrive at Ulji, a famous matcha green tea plantation, to please your eyes and mind.
3. Mount Fuji
Image via Freepik
One of Japan’s best and most tempting destinations is Mount Fuji in Yamanashi. It is partially located in Yamanashi Prefecture on the border with Shizuoka Prefecture. Mount Fuji is the highest mountain in Japan. It towers 12,000 above sea level.
It is open for hiking between July and August. Not only does it provide a mesmerizing view, but you can also enjoy hot springs and camping grounds at the Fuji Five Lakes at the base of the mountain.
4. Okinawa
Image via visitokinawajapan
From mountain to ocean, Japan serves you well. Okinawa is famous for its crystal clear beaches and is home to breathtaking coral reefs.
You can enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving, and luxurious resorts while in Okinawa. In addition, Shurijo Castle and the aquarium are also worth visiting.
5. Kanazawa, Ishikawa
Image via Japanexperterna
If you love a quieter place, Kanazawa can be a perfect option. Although it’s included as one of the best cities in Japan, not many tourists land their feet in this place.
Kanazawa is famous for its geisha districts with preserved wooden buildings, beautiful gardens, and art museums. The Kenroku-en Garden in Kanazawa is included as one of the best gardens in Japan.
You can also experience a wooden tea house in the geisha district and a traditional tea ceremony at Gyokusen-en Garden.
6. Hiroshima
Image via Flickr Luca Sartoni
If you love learning historical knowledge while traveling, you definitely can’t miss Hiroshima. Pay a visit to Peace Memorial Museum and Park to pay your respect to the victim of the Hiroshima bombing.
You can also enjoy the famous floating Torii Gate at Itsukushima Shrine and try Japan’s famous local food, Okonomiyaki, in its original place.
7. Sapporo, Hokkaido
Image via Flickr Munica
Hokkaido is open for tourists all year round, from summer to winter. There are many exciting places and events hosted by the government and people there.
If you visit during winter, you can enjoy the Snow Festival that is held annually every February in its capital city, Sapporo. You can also sit back and relax in their hot springs and traditional resorts.
Furthermore, neighboring areas of Sapporo such as Niseko, Otaru, and Hakodate are also worth visiting while you’re in Hokkaido.
8. Osaka
Image via Flickr Shinya Hirose
If you love enjoying city vibes and lively places, Osaka should be on your list. Being the commercial center of Japan, Osaka is the heart of the entertainment districts, especially the famous Dotonbori.
It’s a shopping and culinary paradise for tourists that stretches from Namba to Shinsaibashi. If you come during spring, Osaka Castle Park is a must-visit place to experience mesmerizing cherry blossoms.
9. Itsukushima, Miyajima
Image via Flickr inbiblosveritas
Itsukushima has its charm as a historical destination. It’s famous for its Shinto temple dedicated to the Princess daughters of the wind God Susanoo.
This temple is called Itsukushima Shrine, which stands up solid in the water bay. The strong tides make it look even more beautiful as the building looks floating. This fascinating view blends perfectly with the highlands as a background.
10. Nara
Image via Flickr Nicholas Cole
Nara is another well-preserved historical city in Japan. There are many historical buildings, including the famous Seven Great Temples of Nara, Kofuku-ji Temple, and Great East Temple, Todai-ji.
Especially in Todi-ji, its Great South Gate called Nandaimon is very popular as its two-story building is supported by 18 columns. Moreover, two Nio Statues standing eight meters guarding the entrance are ready to shock your eyes.
Not to mention the Hall of the Great Buddha, which is claimed as the largest timber building in the world.
Closing
Japan has its unique charm that attracts tourists around the world. It’s a place where historical and cultural heritages are preserved in the best way possible. At the same time, the country has one of the best advanced technologies that make tourists feel like they’re living in the future.
Rather than just enjoying Japan through video, let’s get a real deal of Japan’s experience by visiting the country. It doesn’t only serve you with fascinating tourist attractions but also the knowledge and experience that you’ll remember for a lifetime.
Author
Andre Oentoro is the founder of Breadnbeyond, an award-winning explainer video production company. He helps businesses increase conversion rates, close more sales, and get positive ROI from explainer videos (in that order).
Twitter: @breadnbeyond
Email: andre@breadnbeyond.com
LinkedIn: Andre Oentoro
