Your Complete Guide to Exploring the Best of Japan
Japan, a land of ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity, captivates with its serene temples, bustling cities, and exquisite cuisine. From the vibrant streets of Tokyo to the tranquil gardens of Kyoto, Japan offers a blend of history and innovation. Explore historic shrines, savour delicious sushi, and experience lively festivals. The country’s stunning landscapes, efficient transport, and unique cultural experiences make it a top destination for travellers. Japan’s unique charm ensures an unforgettable travel experience.
When to visit
Temp Range
Currency
Min Budget
Mar – May
Sep – Nov
15 – 30°C
59 – 86°F
Japanese Yen (JPY)
$50 – 70/day
Top Attractions
See below for a selection of the top attractions in Japan, review the map to see where these are located to help plan your trip.
Shibuya Crossing
Shibuya Crossing is one of the world’s busiest pedestrian intersections, located in the heart of Tokyo. Famous for its dazzling neon lights and giant video screens, it epitomizes Tokyo’s vibrant urban culture. Visitors can experience the organized chaos of hundreds crossing simultaneously, explore nearby shopping districts, and visit the iconic Hachiko Statue.
Access from – Tokyo
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
Kinkaku-ji, or the Golden Pavilion, is a Zen Buddhist temple in Kyoto renowned for its stunning gold leaf-covered exterior. Situated beside a tranquil pond surrounded by meticulously landscaped gardens, it offers a picturesque setting. Visitors can admire the reflection of the temple in the water and learn about its rich historical and cultural significance.
Access from – Kyoto
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park commemorates the victims of the atomic bombing on August 6, 1945. The park features the iconic A-Bomb Dome, Peace Memorial Museum, and numerous monuments dedicated to peace and remembrance. Visitors can learn about the impact of the bombing, honour the lives lost, and reflect on the importance of nuclear disarmament and global peace.
Access from – Hiroshima
Todai-ji Temple
Todai-ji Temple in Nara is home to the world’s largest bronze statue of Buddha, housed in the Great Buddha Hall (Daibutsuden). This historic temple, founded in the 8th century, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can explore the expansive grounds, admire the impressive architecture, and encounter friendly deer roaming freely in the surrounding Nara Park.
Access from – Nara
Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji, Japan’s highest peak at 3,776 meters, is an iconic symbol of Japan. This stratovolcano is a popular destination for climbers and sightseers. Visitors can hike to the summit, enjoy panoramic views from the Fifth Station, or admire its majestic beauty from nearby lakes and hot springs. Mount Fuji is also a UNESCO World Heritage site, celebrated for its cultural and natural significance.
Access from – Fuji, Hakone, or Kawaguchiko
Cherry Blossoms in Yoshinoyama
Yoshinoyama, located in Nara Prefecture, is famous for its breath-taking cherry blossoms during springtime. The mountainside transforms into a sea of pink as thousands of cherry trees bloom, attracting visitors from around the world. Yoshinoyama offers scenic hiking trails, panoramic views, and traditional Japanese villages, providing a serene and picturesque experience.
Dotonbori District
Dotonbori is Osaka’s bustling entertainment district, known for its vibrant nightlife, neon lights, and iconic landmarks. Visitors can stroll along the canal-lined streets, sample local street food like takoyaki and okonomiyaki, and marvel at the towering advertisements and billboards. Dotonbori embodies Osaka’s energetic spirit and culinary delights, making it a must-visit destination.
Access from – Osaka
Fushimi Inari Shrine
Fushimi Inari Shrine is renowned for its thousands of vermillion torii gates that lead into the wooded forest of Mount Inari. Dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice and prosperity, the shrine offers a mystical atmosphere and scenic hiking paths. Visitors can explore the gates, visit sub-shrines, and enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto from the summit.
Access from – Kyoto
Shirakawa-go
Shirakawa-go is a picturesque village in Gifu Prefecture, known for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses with steep thatched roofs. These historic houses, designed to withstand heavy snowfall, offer a glimpse into rural Japan’s architectural heritage. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Shirakawa-go hosts cultural events and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes.
Access from – Takayama
Itsukushima Shrine
Itsukushima Shrine is a UNESCO World Heritage site located on Miyajima Island in Hiroshima Prefecture. Known for its iconic “floating” torii gate, the shrine stands at low tide surrounded by water, creating a surreal and stunning sight. Visitors can explore the shrine’s architectural beauty, scenic surroundings, and tranquil atmosphere.
Access from – Miyajima
Tokyo Imperial Palace
The Tokyo Imperial Palace is the primary residence of the Emperor of Japan. Located in the heart of Tokyo, the palace is surrounded by expansive gardens and moats. Visitors can tour the East Gardens, view the Nijubashi Bridge, and learn about Japan’s imperial history and traditions in this historic and cultural landmark.
Access from – Tokyo
Sapporo Snow Festival
The Sapporo Snow Festival, held annually in Hokkaido’s capital, Sapporo, showcases elaborate snow and ice sculptures. Visitors can admire massive sculptures illuminated at night, participate in winter sports, and enjoy local cuisine and cultural performances. The festival attracts millions of visitors worldwide, offering a magical winter wonderland experience in northern Japan.
Access from – Sapporo
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in Kyoto is a serene bamboo forest known for its towering bamboo stalks that create a peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can stroll along paths winding through the grove, enjoying the rustling bamboo leaves and filtering sunlight. Nearby attractions include Tenryu-ji Temple and the scenic Togetsukyo Bridge, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and photographers.
Access from – Kyoto
Kamikochi
Kamikochi National Park, nestled in the Japanese Alps, enchants visitors with its pristine alpine landscapes. Situated in the northern part of the Japan Alps, it features crystal-clear rivers, dense forests, and panoramic views of towering peaks like the Hotaka Range. Renowned for its hiking trails ranging from leisurely strolls to challenging treks, Kamikochi is a haven for nature lovers seeking tranquillity and scenic beauty.
Access from – Takayama
Kuromon Market
Kuromon Ichiba Market, located in Osaka, is a bustling food market renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse array of fresh seafood, fruits, and local delicacies. Spanning over 600 meters, it attracts both locals and tourists seeking to indulge in Osaka’s renowned street food culture. From sushi and sashimi to takoyaki and grilled seafood, Kuromon Market offers a tantalizing glimpse into Osaka’s gastronomic delights.
Access from – Osaka
Onsens
Onsens are natural hot springs scattered throughout Japan, offering a serene retreat for relaxation and rejuvenation. These geothermal baths are celebrated for their mineral-rich waters, believed to have healing properties. Visitors immerse themselves in this centuries-old tradition, enjoying tranquil settings amidst nature or within traditional ryokan (inns). Onsens are integral to Japanese culture, providing a therapeutic escape from daily life and a must try for any visitor.
Access from – Widely available everywhere in the country.
Map
See map of Japan to review top attractions. For the best experience save locally to open with google maps/share with your friends to help plan your next adventure! Some locations are hidden behind others, click map to reveal full details:
Transport
Japan’s key transport routes include an extensive and efficient rail network. The Shinkansen (bullet trains) connect major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima, offering fast and comfortable travel. Regional trains and local lines provide connectivity to smaller towns and rural areas. Domestic flights are available for longer distances, with major airports including Tokyo Narita, Tokyo Haneda, and Kansai International. Within cities, subways and buses are reliable and frequent. Taxis are readily available, though expensive; ride-hailing apps like Uber and JapanTaxi offer convenient options, particularly in urban areas, ensuring easy and efficient transportation.
Budget
Traveling in Japan varies; budget travellers spend $50-$70 per day on hostels and local food; mid-range travellers budget $100-$140 for hotels and dining out; luxury travellers may spend $300+ daily, enjoying upscale accommodations, fine dining, and private tours. Costs are higher in major cities like Tokyo and Kyoto.
Seasonality and Weather
Japan’s weather varies widely across regions. In northern areas like Hokkaido, winters are cold and snowy (-10 to 0°C / 14 to 32°F) and summers are mild (20–25°C / 68–77°F). Central regions, including Tokyo, experience mild winters (5–10°C / 41–50°F) and hot, humid summers (25–35°C / 77–95°F). Southern areas, like Okinawa, have warm winters (15–20°C / 59–68°F) and very hot summers (30–35°C / 86–95°F). The best times to visit are spring (March–May) for cherry blossoms and autumn (September–November) for colourful foliage, both offering mild temperatures and lower humidity. These seasons are ideal for enjoying Japan’s natural beauty and cultural events without the extremes of summer heat or winter cold.
Must Try Dishes
Language
The main language spoken is Japanese. Below are some key phrases (phonetic translation) to get you started. A big smile and a few words can get you a long way!
WindingTravel 