Japan
Ancient traditions, futuristic cities, incredible food and landscapes that change dramatically with the seasons. Japan is one of those destinations that can feel completely different depending on when you visit and how you choose to explore it.
What to See in Japan
Whether you’re after vibrant cities, traditional culture, beautiful nature or relaxing hot springs, Japan has a destination for you.
From the neon-lit streets of Tokyo to the traditional villages of the Japanese Alps, every region offers something different. And with so much to see, deciding where to go can be one of the hardest parts of planning your trip.
To help you get started, here are some of the destinations worth adding to your Japan travel list, whether you’re visiting for the first time or looking to explore beyond the usual highlights.
Where Should You Go in Japan?
You don’t need to visit every destination in one trip. With so much to see, choosing a few places that suit your interests and available annual leave can make your trip feel much more enjoyable.
Here are a few ideas to help you get started:
The key is to choose destinations that work well together rather than trying to fit everything into one itinerary.
Explore Cities
Tokyo
For many travellers, Tokyo is the starting point of a Japan adventure. It’s a city of contrasts, where futuristic skyscrapers and neon-lit streets sit alongside peaceful shrines, traditional neighbourhoods and tiny local restaurants.
Spend your days exploring different districts, from the energy of Shibuya and Shinjuku to the more traditional streets of Asakusa. And don’t underestimate how much there is to discover beyond the famous landmarks.
Don’t miss: Shibuya Crossing, Asakusa, Meiji Shrine, Shinjuku and the city’s incredible food scene.
Kyoto
If you’re looking for traditional Japan, Kyoto deserves a place on your itinerary. Known for its temples, shrines, historic streets and beautiful gardens, the city offers a very different atmosphere from Tokyo.
It’s easy to spend days wandering between its famous sights, but some of the most memorable moments can come from simply exploring its quieter streets and traditional neighbourhoods.
Don’t miss: Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kiyomizu-dera, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and the historic streets of Higashiyama.
Osaka
Osaka is lively, welcoming and particularly famous for its food. It’s a city where evenings are made for exploring bustling streets, trying local specialities and enjoying the atmosphere around Dotonbori.
It’s also a convenient base for exploring the wider Kansai region, making it easy to combine with Kyoto, Nara and Kobe.
Don’t miss: Dotonbori, Osaka Castle, Shinsekai and the city’s famous street food.
Kobe
Set between the mountains and the sea, Kobe offers a slightly different pace from neighbouring Osaka. The city is known for its attractive waterfront, international influences and, of course, its famous beef.
It’s an easy addition to a Kansai itinerary if you have a little extra time to explore beyond Osaka and Kyoto.
Don’t miss: The waterfront, Kitano district and the chance to try Kobe beef.
Fukuoka
For food lovers, Fukuoka is a destination worth considering. The city is particularly famous for Hakata ramen and its lively yatai food stalls, where you can enjoy local dishes in a relaxed, sociable setting.
It’s also a great opportunity to discover a different part of Japan beyond the classic Tokyo–Kyoto–Osaka route.
Don’t miss: Hakata ramen, the yatai stalls and Fukuoka’s local food scene.
Yokohama
Just south of Tokyo, Yokohama makes an easy addition to a stay in the capital. Its waterfront, modern skyline and lively Chinatown offer a change of scenery without requiring a major detour.
You could visit for a day or spend longer exploring the city at a more relaxed pace.
Don’t miss: Minato Mirai, Yokohama Chinatown and the waterfront.
Day Trips & Easy Additions
Kamakura
If you’re spending time in Tokyo and fancy a change of scenery, Kamakura makes a lovely day trip. Known for its temples, shrines and coastal atmosphere, it offers a more relaxed experience away from the capital’s busy streets.
It’s a great option if you want to discover a little more of Japan without changing hotels.
Don’t miss: The Great Buddha, Hasedera Temple and the town’s charming streets.
Mount Fuji & Hakone
Mount Fuji is one of Japan’s most recognisable landmarks, and seeing it in person can be a highlight of a trip. The surrounding region offers beautiful scenery, lakes and opportunities to enjoy a slower pace.
Hakone is another popular addition, known for its hot springs, mountain landscapes and views of Fuji when conditions allow.
Don’t miss: Scenic viewpoints of Mount Fuji, Lake Ashi and Hakone’s hot springs.
Keep in mind that visibility around Mount Fuji depends on the weather, so it’s worth allowing some flexibility if seeing the mountain is a priority.
Traditional Japan & Mountain Villages
Kanazawa
Kanazawa is a wonderful destination for travellers interested in traditional Japan. With its historic districts, cultural heritage and beautiful gardens, it offers a different experience from the country’s larger cities. It’s particularly appealing if you’d like to explore beyond the most familiar stops on a first-time itinerary.
Don’t miss: Kenrokuen Garden, Higashi Chaya District and the Nagamachi samurai district.
Takayama
Surrounded by mountains, Takayama is known for its beautifully preserved old town, traditional architecture and local food. It’s a lovely place to slow down and experience a different side of Japan.
Takayama can also be combined with a visit to Shirakawa-go, making the two destinations a natural pairing for a trip through this part of the country.
Don’t miss: The historic old town, morning markets and local Hida beef.
Shirakawa-go
Famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, Shirakawa-go feels a world away from Japan’s major cities. Its distinctive thatched roofs and mountain setting make it a memorable stop for anyone interested in rural landscapes and traditional architecture.
It’s often visited alongside Takayama, so consider exploring both if you’re planning a trip through the Japanese Alps.
Don’t miss: The traditional village, historic farmhouses and panoramic views from the observation point.
History & Culture
Hiroshima/Miyajima
Hiroshima is a destination with a deeply significant history. Visiting the Peace Memorial Park and Museum offers an opportunity to learn about the atomic bombing and reflect on the city’s message of peace. The city can also be combined with a visit to nearby Miyajima, known for its beautiful island scenery and iconic torii gate.
Don’t miss: Peace Memorial Park, the Atomic Bomb Dome and a visit to Miyajima.
Nara
Nara is an easy addition to a Kansai itinerary and is particularly known for its historic temples, traditional architecture and freely roaming deer in Nara Park. It’s a lovely place to spend a day exploring at a slower pace, especially if you’re interested in Japan’s history and cultural heritage.
Don’t miss: Nara Park, Todai-ji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine.
Islands & Relaxation
Okinawa
If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, sandy beaches and a slower pace, Okinawa offers a very different experience from mainland Japan. The islands have their own distinctive culture, cuisine and landscapes, making them particularly appealing if you’d like to add some beach time to your trip.
Don’t miss: Okinawa’s beaches, coastal scenery and opportunities for snorkelling.
Okinawa is a considerable journey from Japan’s main tourist route, so it’s worth allowing enough time rather than trying to squeeze it into a short city-focused trip.
Kinosaki Onsen
For a traditional Japanese hot spring experience, consider adding Kinosaki Onsen to your travel list. This atmospheric onsen town is known for its public bathhouses and charming streets. It’s a lovely place to slow down, enjoy the hot springs and take a break from a busy sightseeing itinerary.
Don’t miss: The public bathhouses, a stroll through the town and the traditional onsen atmosphere.
Explore Japan with Our Travel Maps
Planning a trip to Japan can involve a lot of research. From deciding which attractions are worth visiting to finding great restaurants, cafés and hidden gems, it’s easy to spend hours saving places and organising your plans.
That’s why we’ve created curated Google Maps guides to help you spend less time researching and more time exploring.
Our maps bring together must-see attractions, food spots, hidden gems and useful places in one convenient place, making it easier to organise your trip and discover places you might otherwise miss.
Whether you’re exploring Tokyo or planning a journey through Kansai, our maps are designed to make your travel planning simpler.
Explore our maps and start planning your Japan adventure.
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Now that you’ve explored where to go, it’s time to start putting your trip together.
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