All-Time Best
Tokyo
Tokyo
Japan's electrifying capital is a dazzling metropolis where neon-lit skyscrapers coexist with historic temples and serene gardens. From the organized chaos of Shibuya Crossing to the peaceful grounds of Meiji Shrine, Tokyo offers endless culinary, cultural, and futuristic experiences.
Highlights
- Shibuya Crossing
- Senso-ji Temple
- Tokyo Skytree
- Tsukiji Outer Market
Kyoto
Kyoto
The cultural heart of Japan, Kyoto is home to over 2,000 temples and shrines, traditional geisha districts, and stunning zen gardens. This former imperial capital preserves Japan's rich heritage through its UNESCO World Heritage sites and living traditions.
Highlights
- Fushimi Inari Shrine
- Kinkaku-ji Golden Pavilion
- Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
- Gion District
Osaka
Osaka
Known as Japan's kitchen, Osaka is a food lover's paradise famous for takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and vibrant street food culture. The city's energetic nightlife, historic castle, and friendly locals make it a must-visit destination in western Japan.
Highlights
- Osaka Castle
- Dotonbori
- Universal Studios Japan
- Kuromon Market
Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji
Japan's iconic snow-capped volcano and UNESCO World Heritage Site stands at 3,776 meters, making it the country's highest peak. Whether viewed from the Five Lakes region, climbed during summer, or admired from a bullet train, Fuji-san is a symbol of Japan itself.
Highlights
- Summit Sunrise
- Fuji Five Lakes
- Chureito Pagoda View
- Climbing Season July-August
Hiroshima
Hiroshima
A city of peace and resilience, Hiroshima has transformed from the site of the world's first atomic bombing into a powerful symbol of hope. The Peace Memorial Park and Museum offer profound reflections, while nearby Miyajima Island provides natural beauty and sacred sites.
Highlights
- Peace Memorial Park
- A-Bomb Dome
- Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
- Day Trip to Miyajima
Nara
Nara
Japan's first permanent capital is home to eight UNESCO World Heritage sites and over 1,000 freely roaming sacred deer. The ancient temples, including Todai-ji with its massive bronze Buddha, make Nara an essential day trip from Kyoto or Osaka.
Highlights
- Nara Park & Deer
- Todai-ji Great Buddha
- Kasuga Grand Shrine
- Naramachi Historic District
Hakone
Hakone
A popular hot spring resort town just 90 minutes from Tokyo, Hakone offers stunning views of Mount Fuji, traditional ryokan inns, world-class art museums, and the iconic pirate ships cruising Lake Ashi. It's the perfect blend of relaxation and sightseeing.
Highlights
- Hakone Open-Air Museum
- Lake Ashi Cruise
- Owakudani Valley
- Traditional Ryokan
Okinawa
Okinawa
Japan's tropical paradise, the Okinawa islands offer pristine beaches, world-class diving, unique Ryukyuan culture, and a distinct cuisine. The subtropical climate, turquoise waters, and relaxed atmosphere make it a completely different Japan experience.
Highlights
- Shuri Castle
- Churaumi Aquarium
- Kerama Islands
- Blue Zone Longevity
Nikko
Nikko
A mountain town filled with ornately decorated shrines and temples, including the lavish Toshogu Shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu. Surrounded by beautiful nature, waterfalls, and hot springs, Nikko offers spiritual heritage and natural beauty just two hours from Tokyo.
Highlights
- Toshogu Shrine
- See No Evil Monkeys
- Kegon Falls
- Lake Chuzenji
Kanazawa
Kanazawa
Often called Little Kyoto, Kanazawa escaped wartime bombing and preserves beautifully restored samurai and geisha districts. Home to Kenroku-en, one of Japan's three most beautiful gardens, and a thriving arts scene, it's a cultural treasure on the Sea of Japan coast.
Highlights
- Kenroku-en Garden
- Higashi Chaya Geisha District
- 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art
- Nagamachi Samurai District
Spring (Cherry Blossom Season)
Philosopher's Path, Kyoto
Philosopher's Path, Kyoto
A scenic 2km canal-side path lined with hundreds of cherry trees. Walk from Ginkaku-ji to Nanzen-ji under a canopy of pink blossoms.
Highlights
- Peak bloom late March-early April
- 2km scenic walk
- Cafes along path
Meguro River, Tokyo
Meguro River, Tokyo
Over 800 cherry trees line this river in central Tokyo. Evening illuminations create a magical atmosphere for hanami (flower viewing).
Highlights
- Night illuminations
- 4km of cherry trees
- Popular hanami spot
Yoshino Mountain
Yoshino Mountain
Japan's most famous cherry blossom viewing spot with 30,000 trees covering the mountainside. The blooms progress up the mountain over weeks.
Highlights
- 30,000 cherry trees
- Blooms early April
- UNESCO World Heritage area
Autumn Colors
Kiyomizu-dera, Kyoto
Kiyomizu-dera, Kyoto
This iconic temple's wooden stage offers spectacular views of Kyoto's autumn foliage. The surrounding maples turn brilliant shades of red and orange.
Highlights
- Peak foliage mid-November
- Night illuminations
- Iconic wooden stage
Nikko in Autumn
Nikko in Autumn
The mountain shrines of Nikko are surrounded by stunning autumn colors. The Irohazaka winding road offers spectacular viewpoints.
Highlights
- Peak late October
- Irohazaka scenic drive
- Lake Chuzenji views
Frequently Asked Questions
Spring (late March-May) for cherry blossoms and pleasant weather. Autumn (October-November) for stunning fall foliage and comfortable temperatures. Winter is great for skiing and hot springs. Summer is hot and humid but offers festivals.
The JR Pass is cost-effective if you plan to travel between cities (Tokyo-Kyoto-Osaka, etc.) multiple times. For stays focused on one city, it may not be worth it. Calculate your trips on Hyperdia.com to decide.
Yes, especially in major cities. Signs in train stations are in English, Google Translate works well, and Japanese people are helpful. Learning basic phrases like 'sumimasen' (excuse me) and 'arigatou' (thank you) is appreciated.
Minimum 7-10 days for Tokyo and Kyoto. 14 days allows for a more relaxed pace plus additional destinations like Osaka, Nara, and Hiroshima. 3 weeks or more is ideal for thorough exploration.
Japan can be affordable with budget options like hostels, convenience store meals, and rail passes. Mid-range travel costs $100-200/day. Luxury experiences, especially dining, can be expensive but often offer exceptional value.