Top Vacation Spots in Japan

Welcome to Japan – the 'Land of the Rising Sun,' and one of the top tourist destinations in Asia. Japan is rich with well-preserved cultural heritage and mouth-watering local dishes, not to mention stunning landscapes. Neon-lit metropolises, lush green hills, and tranquil temples are just some of the country's highlights. Add to that the choicest sushi dishes, and you're left with nothing to wish for. With so much to do here, your stay will never be long enough. In this article, we'll guide you through 31 top vacation spots in Japan. Let's get started!

What’s one of the best places to visit in Japan during the summer? That would be Kyoto. Located on the southern island of Honshu, Kyoto is a gorgeous city full of exquisite gardens, majestic palaces, and serene temples. It’s no wonder why it ranks only second to Rome in terms of UNESCO designated world heritage sites. Do you want an everlasting taste of Japanese hospitality, history, and magnificence? Head to this top vacation spot without any delay.

What to see and do in Kyoto:

• Be mesmerized by the stunning Kinkakuji Temple

• Enjoy the night at the L’Escamoteur cocktail bar

• Visit the Shinto shrine of Fushimi Inari Taisha

• Befriend the monkeys at the Arashiyama bamboo forest

• Explore the historic wooden castle of Nijo

• Watch the geisha dance at Gion

• Dine at the floating restaurants on the Kamo

Do you love urban cityscapes lined with towering skyscrapers? Then you will surely be enthralled by this metropolis. Tokyo, the national capital, is one of the best cities to visit in Japan. It's a perfect blend of the traditional and ultra-modern elements of Japan. Well-kept temples, manicured gardens, and lively city trails offer much to be explored and discovered in this gem of a city.

What to see and do in Tokyo:

• Visit the fish market of Goyusu

• Take an all-encompassing look at the city from the Skytree

• Pay a visit to the temples of Senso-ji and Meiji Jingu

• Devour the delectable Sushi at the waterfront bars of Odaiba

• Have a blast at the Tokyo Disneyland

• Saunter around the enchanting Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

• See the Imperial Palace

Located on the island of Honshu, Osaka is one of the most important port cities in Japan. This has to be the ultimate city destination you are looking for. Why? The fantastic modern architecture, street food walks, and pulsating nightlife will reveal the answer for you. But don't worry, it's not all boisterous there. Osaka also holds some gentler sensations. Heritage buildings and temples will serve as havens of silence to soothe your mind.

What to see and do in Osaka:

• Marvel at the imposing Castle of Osaka

• Enjoy a few drinks and explore the Dotonbori district

• Meet some underwater creatures at the Kaiyukan Aquarium

• Empty your wallets at the Minami shopping avenue

• Got space to cook? Pick up fresh groceries from Kuromon Market

• Visit the Universal Studios of Osaka

Once the capital of Japan in ancient times, Nara is a historical city in southwestern Honshu. Given its historical background, Nara is steeped in traditional Japanese art and architecture. The city is home to some venerable temples and other heritage structures. History buffs, or those interested in Asian culture, will find it especially attractive here. When you get tired of roaming all those exquisite places, retire and relax at Nara deer park.

What to see and do in Nara:

• Stand in awe of the giant Buddha at the Todai-ji temple

• Watch the deers go about their routine at Nara Park

• See the ancient Shinto shrine of Kasuga-taisha

• Visit the ancient Buddhist temple of Kofuku-ji

• Explore the ruins of Heijo Palace

• Appreciate the skills of the ninjas at the Iga-ryu Museum

Takayama is a charming city nestled in the lush green mountains of Gifu Prefecture. The city has a vibrant cultural scene. Locals here celebrate the historic Takayama Festival that will teleport you to the bygone era of traditional Japanese glory. You will get to see some incredible wooden architecture in the city’s historic district. The surrounding hill country presents ample opportunities for trekking or hiking. Also, Takayama is an excellent place to indulge in mouth-watering Japanese cuisine.

What to see and do in Takayama:

• Discover the old quarter of Jinya

• Go hiking in the scenic Kamikochi forest

• Trek to the top of the spectacular Mount Norikura

• Observe the crowds at the Miyagawa Morning Market

• Make a trip to the folk village of Hida

• Ride the Shinhotaka Ropeway

• Shop and drink while on a stroll through the Sanmachi Suji

Settled in the mountains of Tochigi Prefecture is Nikko, a small city located about 150 kilometers north of Tokyo. Nikko resides in an area of great natural beauty, making it the perfect day trip from Tokyo if you’ve had enough of the big-city clamor. It boasts of some historic shrines and temples, with its many UNESCO designated world heritage sites. You can also spend quality time at the many lakes and waterfalls that dot the surrounding landscapes.

What to see and do in Nikko:

• Visit Tosho-gu, the 17th-century shrine of Shogun Tokugawa

• Go boating on the historic Lake Chuzenji

• Be charmed by the hues of nature at the Nikko National Park

• Trek to the ancient shrine of Futarasan jinja

• Stand in awe of the imposing Kegon Falls

• See the Rin-no-ji museum and garden

The city of Hiroshima has a deep emotional connection to the people of Japan, for obvious reasons. Like a phoenix rising from the ruins, the city has transformed itself into a major tourist destination over the years. Hiroshima is mostly known for its peace museum, but that’s not all. Many other sights will enthrall you, be it beautiful gardens or heritage structures. There are also some beautiful islands nearby that make for a good trip.

What to see and do in Hiroshima:

• Ruminate over the futility of war at the ruins of Genbaku Dome

• See the Great Torii Gate of Itsukushima

• Remember the victims of war at Hiroshima Peace Memorial

• Visit the historic Castle of Hiroshima

• Be stunned by the beauty of Shukkeien Garden

• Go for a leisurely walk in Momijidani Park

Located in the Kisho valley in Nagano Prefecture, the historic town of Tsumago used to be a significant post during the Edo era. Tsumago is restored to its olden appearance and is now among the best places to visit in Japan. Want to have a closer look at the traditional Japanese way of living? Tsumago would be perfect for you. Plus, the pristine rural surroundings of the town are definitely worth a tour.

What to see and do in Tsumago:

• Get to know the town’s feudal past at the Local History Museum

• Appreciate the traditional architecture at the Tsumago Juku-honjin

• Go on a hike to the neighboring village of Magome

• Have some fun at the many waterfalls in the area

• In the evening, stroll around the streets lined with wooden houses

Kanazawa, or ‘Little Kyoto,’ is the capital city of Ishikawa Prefecture on Honshu Island. The city is known for its rich cultural and historical heritage that spans several eras of Japanese history. Are you an art enthusiast? Visit Kanazawa, and thank us later for recommending it. The city has many museums and workshops to engage the artist in you. You can also meet those famed Samurais in all their glory.

What to see and do in Kanazawa:

• Meet the Samurais at the Nagamachi Samurai District

• Shop for some gold decorated lacquerware souvenirs

• Spend some time at the fascinating garden of Kenroku-en

• Pick up fresh fish from the Omicho Market

• Appreciate some art at the Museum of Contemporary Art

• Visit Myoryuji, the Ninja temple

• Traverse the expansive lawns of Kanazawa Castle

Another place of remarkable history! However, believe us when we say you won't get bored. Okayama is the capital city of the eponymous prefecture in western Honshu. Beautiful castles, polished gardens, and a well preserved historic quarter are the highlights of Okayama. It’s one of those few places in Japan where you can get loads of sunshine while enjoying a swim at the many beaches of the area. Another plus? The tourist crowd is not as thick as other notable places in Japan.

What to see and do in Okayama:

• Marvel at the beauty of historic Edo era Korakuen garden

• Have a gala time at the Naked Man Festival

• Visit the art island of Inujima

• See the peaceful shrine of Kibitsu

• Spend some dimes at the Aeon Mall

• Discover the ruins of Oni, a historic castle

• Learn a thing or two about plants at Handayama Botanical Garden

Naoshima Island lies in the Seto Inland Sea that separates Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu islands of Japan. With its many famous art museums, Naoshima is a hub of modern art. Are you familiar with the famous James Bond novel, ‘The Man with the Red Tattoo,’? Its plot was set here. If you’re still not convinced this is the vacation spot for you, Naoshima’s sandy beaches and sunny Mediterranean-like weather might lure you in. Come to this laid back island and flush out the noisy city from your system.

What to see and do in Naoshima:

• Take a selfie at the iconic ‘Yellow Pumpkin’

• See some awesome specimens of art at the Chichu Art Museum

• Visit the famous Benesse House art museum

• Splash around at the Gotanji Swimming Beach

• Try your luck at the fishing park

• Lay back and relax at Niyama Park

Drink some quality beer, go mountain trekking, or indulge in adrenaline-boosting watersports—Sapporo has many things to captivate you. Home of the famous beer, Sapporo is the capital of Japan’s northeasternmost island of Hokkaido. This is one of the best destinations in Japan if you want to experience a variety of Japanese cuisine. The city also hosts a famous annual festival that draws people from all over the world.

What to see and do in Sapporo:

• Be amazed by the snow sculptures at the Sapporo Snow Festival

• Get to know the brewing history of the city at the Sapporo Beer Museum

• Have some night-time fun in Susukino district of the city

• Take the cable car to the top of Mount Moiwa

• Idle around in the Odori Park

• Visit the Maruyama Zoo

Located near the eastern coast of Honshu island in Kanagawa Prefecture of central Japan is one of Japan's best resort destinations. Hakoke is the perfect reprieve from metropolis commotion, being nestled in the tranquil hills of the pristine Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Add to that the towering Mount Fuji in the background, and you've got a breathtaking natural landscape. Boosting Hakone's popularity are the many hot springs dotting this volcanic region.

What to see and do in Hakone:

• Treat yourself to a spa day at the hot springs of Owakudani valley

• Go cruising on the scenic crater lake of Ashi

• See the sculptures at the Open Air Museum

• Have some tea at Gora Park

• Pay a visit to the Shinto shrine

• See the Glass Forest museum

• Observe some flora at the Wetland Botanical Garden

Kamakura is located in Kanagawa Prefecture, about sixty kilometers south of Tokyo. With a history that stretches back to the beginning of the twelfth century, this heritage village is surrounded by wooded hills strewn with several Buddhist and Shinto shrines. Kamakura is also known as the 'Kyoto of Eastern Japan' due to its impressive mountain scenery. The best part is, this Japan destination includes excellent sandy beaches where you can lay back and unwind.

What to see and do in Kamakura:

• Marvel at the colossal Great Buddha

• Delve into the past at the 1300-year-old Buddhist temple of Hasedera

• Stroll among the bamboo groves of Hokokuji

• Idle around on the sands of Yuigahama beach

• Taste some delicacies on the Komachi Dori street

• Go surfing at the Inamuragasaki Cape

• Learn about literary traditions at the Museum of Literature

Kobe is a metropolitan city and one of the biggest ports in Japan. It is the capital of Hyogo Prefecture on the northern coast of Osaka Bay in southern Honshu. Flaunting a blend of ancient and modern attractions, Kobe is one of the top Japan holiday destinations. Timeworn shrines, a lively nightlife, delectable cuisine, and nearby hot springs should be enough to entice you. Kobe's beautiful setting — sea on one side, hills of Rokko on the other — will charm you.

What to see and do in Kobe:

• Go shopping in the markets around the harbor of Kobe

• Enjoy the view from the Port Tower

• Have some delicacies at the historic Chinese district of Nankin-machi

• Drift around Meriken Park

• Make a trip to the hot springs of Arima Onsen

• Befriend the animals at the Kobe Animal Kingdom

Located about a thousand miles southwest of Tokyo is Okinawa, the second largest city of the eponymous prefecture in the East China Sea. Okinawa Prefecture is an archipelago of over a hundred charming islands. Are you a fan of diving and snorkeling? If so, this vacation spot definitely deserves a visit from you. The city is surrounded by amazing beaches and very old forests that offer ample opportunities for fun and recreation.

What to see and do in Okinawa:

• Watch the exotic undersea life at the Churaumi Aquarium

• Explore the nooks and crannies of the historic Shurijo Castle

• Snorkel and see the corals in the blue waters of Ishigaki

• Marvel at the dramatic rock formations at Cape Manzamo

• Ride a glass-bottomed boat at the turquoise waters of Kabira Bay

Do you enjoy visiting traditional villages packaged with rustic charm? If your answer is a resounding yes, Shirakawa would be the place for you. This quaint town is located in Gifu Prefecture, about 350 kilometers west of Tokyo. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the historic village of Shirakawa-go is home to the beautiful Gassho-zukuri architecture. Surrounding the area are luxuriant mountainous forests that make for an excellent idle trek. It’s truly a sight to melt your heart.

What to see and do in Shirakawa:

• Explore the gassho houses of the historic Shirakawa-go

• Keep a watch on the town below from the observation deck of Ogimachi Castle

• Appreciate the artifacts at Wada House

• See the traditional farmhouses at Hida Folk Village in nearby Takayama

• Walk across the Miboro Dam

• Visit the Buddhist temple of Myozenji

If you think you’ve seen it all, head straight to Matsumoto, a city on the island of Honshu, located 230 kilometers west of Tokyo. Matsumoto will have something for you, whether you are a foodie, a history buff, or an adventure lover. Explore historic buildings, relish the gratifying local dishes, or go hiking in the surrounding hills. Located at the foot of the Japanese Alps, Matsumoto also offers some great ski tracks.

What to see and do in Matsumoto:

• Discover the towering Castle of Matsumoto

• Make an excursion to the nearby hot springs of Shirahone

• Enjoy the view at the volcanic Taisho Lake

• Give yourself a treat at the Daio Wasabi Farm

• Appreciate the value of time at the Timepiece Museum

• Stroll and shop around the historic quarter of Nakamachi Street

Interested in Japanese spirituality and tradition? You'll surely find Koya San an alluring place to visit. Also known as Mount Koya, Koya San is an ancient temple town in Wakayama Prefecture, about 320 kilometers southwest of Tokyo. This enchanting town is the center of Shingon Buddhism in Japan. Steeped in history and culture, Koya San is an ideal destination away from the din and bustle of metropolitan cities. You might be inspired to begin or deepen your meditation practice.

What to see and do in Koya San:

• Stand in silence at the Okunoin Shrine

• Visit the Kongobuji Temple, the headquarters of the Shingon sect

• See the monumental temples at Garan Complex

• Familiarize yourself with the local history at the Reihokan Museum

• Explore the many hiking trails around Mount Koya

• Attend a sermon at Daishi Kyokai

The importance of this region can be gauged by the ancient saying, “Control Gifu and you control Japan.” Located on the banks of the Nagara, Gifu is the capital city of Gifu Prefecture, located less than 400 kilometers west of Tokyo. You may have heard about the centuries-old Japanese tradition of ‘cormorant fishing.’ Well, there can be no place better than Gifu if you want to see it live. Attractive parks, tranquil shrines, and museums are some of the other appeals in Gifu.

What to see and do in Gifu:

• Take the ropeway to the top of Mount Kinka

• Stand in awe of the towering Inabayama Castle

• Meet the Great Buddha at Shoho-ji Temple

• Saunter around lazily in the Gifu Park

• Delve into the past at the Gifu Museum of History

• Play with the squirrels at Mt. Kinkazan Squirrel Village

What to see and do at Mount Fuji:

• Try trekking as far up the mountain as you can go

• Have fun at the Fujiten Snow Resort

• Enjoy the beautiful views from Fuji 5th Stations

• Go skiing at the Yeti Snow Town

• Make a trip to Lake Kawaguchiko

• Roam around and enjoy the view from the Arakurayama Sengen Park

Hokkaido is northernmost among Japan's major islands and has the most unspoiled natural environment in the country. Rugged peaks, colorful vegetation, and mesmerizing volcanic landscapes easily make it one of the best places to visit in Japan. Are you a fan of adventure recreation? Hokkaido will offer you ample options to go hiking, trekking, boating, or skiing. When exhausted after all that exertion, you can rejuvenate your body and senses at the onsens or hot spring resorts.

What to see and do in Hokkaido:

• Discover the Daisetsuzan National Park

• Visit the caldera lakes in the Shikotsu-Toya National Park

• Relax at the hot spring resort of Noboribetsu

• Meet the penguins at Asahiyama Zoo

• Stroll along the Shirogane Pond trail

• See the beautifully restored historic Otaru Canal

• Go cruising on the blue waters of Lake Akan

Nagano is the capital city of its eponymous prefecture on the island of Honshu. It is located about 250 kilometers to the northwest of Tokyo. Having grown around the Zenkoji, one of the most revered temples in Japan, the city of Nagano is nestled among thickly forested mountains that lend a natural charm. Are you a sports fan? You’ll surely love the game facilities that were built in 1998 when the city hosted the Winter Olympics.

What to see and do in Nagano:

• Appreciate the tranquillity of the Zenko-ji Temple

• Review the defenses of the 16th-century Matsushiro Castle

• Learn about the ninjas at the Ninpo Museum

• See the Olympic facilities from 1998

• Appreciate the art of Nagano Prefecture at Shinano Art Museum

• Go on an outing to Lake Kagami

• Learn a thing or two about plants at Togakushi Forest Botanical Garden

As the capital of Kanagawa Prefecture in central Japan, Yokohama is the second-largest city in the country. Located 27 kilometers south of Tokyo, it is one of the best cities to visit in Japan. Bustling shopping streets dotted with restaurants and a neon-lit cityscape attract visitors here. Want a taste of China in Japan? Yokohama is the perfect city for that, with its substantial Chinatown.

What to see and do in Yokohama:

• Go shopping or just wander around the Minato Mirai 21

• See the well-preserved historic cottages at the Sankeien Gardens

• Make some furry friends at Yokohama Zoo

• Enjoy the panoramic view from the Sky Tower

• Explore the largest Chinatown in Japan

• Noodle lovers should pay a visit to the Ramen Museum

Located in Japan’s Kansai region, Wakayama is home to several historical buildings and remarkable art exhibits. Will the cultural aficionado in you be satisfied here? Absolutely! Those looking for some spiritual solace might find satisfaction at the Buddhist temples in the city. Breathtaking views of springtime cherry blossom and salty winds of the Wakanoura Bay easily make it one of the best places to visit in Japan during summer. Come and have a blast in this amazing seaside city.

What to see and do in Wakayama:

• Visit the Awashima Shrine, also known as the ‘Doll Shrine’

• Discover the expansive Wakayama Castle

• Go camping at the ruins of Tomogashima island

• Stroll around the cobbled streets of Porto Europe

• See the lush green of Momijidani Temple

• Relax at KADA beach

• Pick up the choicest tuna cuts from the Kuroshio Market

On the Japanese island of Kyushu you'll find Kumamoto, the capital city of Kumamoto Prefecture. A majestic castle, heavenly garden, and spectacular cherry blossoms lend a fairytale-like aura to this city. The museums in the region present an assortment of art ranging from European to Edo. Located nearby is Minamata, the place of origin of its namesake disease. However, don’t let that deter you - the area has been transformed into a safe and environmental model city with plenty to enjoy.

What to see and do in Kumamoto:

• Get lost in the awesome beauty of Suizenji Jojuen garden

• Walk the ramparts of the imposing Kumamoto Castle

• Pay a visit to the Kato Shrine

• Appreciate the art at Kumamoto Prefectural Museum of Art

• Be impressed by the luxurious Honmaru Goten Palace

• Study some specimens at Kumamoto Zoo and Botanical Garden

Located about 8 hours north of Tokyo, on Honshu Island, is Aomori - the capital of Aomori Prefecture. Surrounding this quaint city are the imposing Hakkoda Mountains, while clear waters of the Aomori Bay lap at its shores. A busy ferry port, museums, parks, and a very famous annual festival make Aomori one of the best Japan destinations. The city is also home to some ancient sites that will beckon to history enthusiasts.

What to see and do in Aomori:

• Visit the prehistoric site and museum at Sannai-Maruyama

• Appreciate some modern art at the Aomori Museum of Art

• Relish in the festivities of Nebuta Matsuri summer festival in the first week of August

• Take the ropeway to the top of Hakkoda Mountains

• Refresh yourself at the nearby hot spring resort of Asamushi

Want to try your luck and have a blast? Come to Nagoya, as it has one of the best gambling and entertainment districts in all of Japan. Located in central Honshu, Nagoya is one of Japan's most important industrial and economic centers. The city has a rich historical heritage, evidenced by its countless monumental buildings. Nearly reduced to rubbles during World War II, Nagoya has since rebuilt itself into one of Japan's biggest hubs of economic and tourist activity.

What to see and do in Nagoya:

• Have a close look at the sea creatures at Sea Life Nagoya in the LEGOLAND Japan Hotel

• Educate yourself at the Toyota Museum of Industry and Technology

• See the seventeenth-century castle of Nagoya

• Indulge in extravagance at the shopping and fun district of Sakae

• Visit a pachinko parlor in Naka ward

• Explore the exhibits at Nagoya Science Museum

Another one of the top vacation spots in Japan is Ishigaki, located in Okinawa Prefecture. An offshore island surrounded by perfectly blue waters, those who regularly hunt for seaside beauty should definitely give Ishigaki a visit. The island is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Japan - the kinds with luminous powdery sands. One of the island's biggest attractions? A glass-bottomed boat cruise on Kabira Bay, where you can observe colorful fish and rich coral reefs.

What to see and do in Ishigaki:

• Walk on the sands of Yonehara beach

• Cruise on the Kabira Bay in a glass-bottomed boat

• Watch some exotic birds at Banna Park

• Meet the squirrel monkeys at Yaima Village

• Enjoy the scenic views from Tamatorizaki Observation Platform

• Trek to the top of Mount Omoto

• Explore the limestone caves that have spectacular stalactites

Located on the southern tip of Kyushu Island in southwest Japan, Kagoshima is the capital city of Kagoshima Prefecture. The city is located in an area of volcanic activity and is surrounded by some awesome lava formations. The towering Mount Sakurajima, an active volcano, keeps a never-ending watch on the city. Also, there are perfectly manicured gardens and soothing foot baths to rejuvenate your exhausted self.

What to see and do in Kagoshima:

• Take a walk amidst history exhibits at the enchanting Sengan-en garden

• Go trekking on the slopes of Mount Sakurajima

• Take a panoramic look at the volcano from Shiroyama Observatory

• Learn something about the local past at the Museum of Meiji Restoration

• Stroll along the Nagisa Lava Trail

• Watch the dolphins play at the City Aquarium

It's mostly known as the city that faced the fury of Fat Man during WWII. But Nagasaki is way more than that. Located on the northwestern coast of the island of Kyushu, Nagasaki is the capital city of its eponymous Prefecture. Apart from war museums and peace parks, the city is also home to a beautiful harbor, lively city plazas, and a cosmopolitan culture. If you are a fan of urban tourism, Nagasaki should undoubtedly be on your list.

What to see and do in Nagasaki:

• Take a closer look at nuclear bombs at the Atomic Bomb Museum

• Spare a thought on how futile violence is at the ruins of Hashima island

• Drift about in the tranquil Inasa-yam Park

• Remember the fallen ones at Nagasaki Peace Park

• See how mesmerizing the city looks at night from Mount Inasa viewpoint

That concludes our list of top vacation spots in Japan! What doesn’t this country have? From the graceful rolling hills of Kyoto to the tranquil shrines of Koya-san to bustling metropolises like Tokyo and Nagasaki - you have heaps to explore. These were some of the most popular things to do in Japan. Did we miss anything? Let us know in the comments below.