There are many great places to visit in Japan, but some of the most beautiful are far from the beaten path. Kyoto, Tokyo, Hakone, and Hiroshima are all worthwhile destinations, and this article will cover them all. But which ones are the best? Read on to find out. And then, make your trip to Japan even more memorable! Here are some of our top picks:
Kyoto
If you’re a foodie, you should visit one of the many izakayas in Kyoto. The best izakaya in Kyoto is near the Sanjo bridge, and you should try the vegetarian restaurant Ain Soph. Istanbul Restaurant also serves excellent Mediterranean food. You can also check out Pizza Salvatore Cuomo, an Italian restaurant in Kyoto, or try out the Moon, a rooftop bar. Be prepared for the cold winter and the hot summer, because Kyoto has a temperate climate. It snows in December and has rain for half of July.
You should know that the city is surrounded by a number of major international airports, but Kyoto does not have one. However, it is relatively close to other international airports, including Nagoya’s Chubu Centrair International Airport and Osaka’s Kansai International Airport. Kyoto is also well served by bullet trains and is about 3.5 hours’ flight from Tokyo’s Narita International Airport.
Tokyo
If you’re interested in traditional Japanese culture, you’ll want to go to the historic district of Asakusa. Nearby is the world-famous Sensoji Temple, which draws more than 30 million visitors a year. Alternatively, walk along Nakamise Dori, one of Japan’s oldest shopping streets, and browse the countless souvenir shops. You can even find your souvenirs at the tourist office, which is opposite the Kaminarimon Gate, which features a giant red lantern. madisonsdish.com
The city’s main attraction is the Imperial Palace, which stands in a 17th-century park. The palace itself is still in use by the Imperial family, despite being nearly five centuries old. It was built on the same spot as the first fortress built by Feudal Lord Ota Dokan in 1457. You can view the interior of the palace through a bridge called Nijubashi, whose name comes from its reflection in the water. You can also visit the East Higashi-Gyoen Garden, which has 15 exhibition galleries.
There are also plenty of opportunities for family fun in the city. Visitors can enjoy the amusement park in Odaiba, which is located on reclaimed land. In addition to the theme park, you can visit various restaurants and spas. A full day in the city center is definitely worth it. The best places to visit in Japan are a little different than your typical tourist destinations, so plan your trip accordingly.
Hakone
Located only 100 kilometers from Tokyo, Hakone is a stunning mountainous village with hot springs and a beautiful view of Mount Fuji. A visit to Hakone is not complete without a soak in a traditional onsen. While international travelers often skip the onsen, Japanese never miss a chance to relax in a hot spring. If you’re not quite sure what to do in Hakone, consider taking a day trip to nearby Kawaguchiko or a visit to nearby Lake Ashinoko. http://phillipsservices.net/UserProfile/tabid/43/userId/119913/Default.aspx
The Amazake Chaya is an impressive wooden building that dates back to the Edo period. It was once a checkpoint for women and weapons coming into Edo. This 400-year-old teahouse is now a popular tourist destination and a popular stop on the Hakone sightseeing loop. Take your time and enjoy the views of the lake and Mount Fuji from this traditional inn.
Hiroshima
If you’re looking for a city that celebrates peace and culture, Hiroshima is the place for you. Located on the Honsu Island in the southwest of Japan, the city is a beautiful mix of old-world charm and modernity. Its World Heritage Site, Peace Memorial Park, is a must-see for history buffs, and there are many scenic spots to explore while you’re in Hiroshima. Its man-made scenery includes the Itsukushima Shrine and the Shukkein Garden. And of course, the city’s historic sites include the Mazda Museum and Hiroshima Castle.
While you’re in Hiroshima, it’s a good idea to book your hotel well in advance. The city is located about 50km outside of the downtown area, so make sure to plan your trip accordingly. The best time to visit Hiroshima is during spring, when the cherry blossoms begin to bloom. A taxi from the airport to Hiroshima Station costs between JPY 14,000 and 18,000 (depending on your exact destination).
Nara
One of the most beautiful cities in Japan is Nara, which is bursting with culturally significant historical buildings at every turn. It’s a beautiful city that’s best explored on foot, and visitors who have the physical stamina should allow enough time to hike up Mount Wakakusa, which stands at 342 meters. From the summit, visitors can take in the city’s most impressive sights, and the views are especially stunning in the spring.
If you’re visiting Nara as a budget traveler, a no-frills guesthouse near the Deer Park is a good choice. The rooms will be clean and feature free Wi-Fi. The only downside to this type of accommodation is that it doesn’t have a kitchen. However, there are a few local restaurants that serve delicious local fare. If you’re a fan of Japanese cuisine, you can try coco’s curry.
If you’re a Buddhist, you’ll love visiting the Neiraku Art Museum, which displays ceramics, bronzes, and other objects from around the world. There are also numerous Buddhist temples to visit in the area, including the famous Kofuku-ji. Visiting the Neiraku Art Museum is another fun activity, with a diverse collection of Chinese, Korean, and Japanese ceramics on display.
Fukuoka
Known for its beautiful natural landscapes, Fukuoka is also home to many professional sports events and numerous festivals. For example, the town is home to the 700-year-old Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival, which features colorful parades, traditional races, and costumed characters. There are many places to eat and drink in Fukuoka, and you can also check out Canal City, the city’s shopping complex. This 2.5 million square-foot mall is filled with shops and arcades, and there’s even a fountain show at sunset.
If you’re looking for a place to relax, try visiting Ohori Park, the sprawling park in Fukuoka. This area is home to multiple waterfront paths and a lake. Locals visit this area for its tranquility, and it features a museum and small traditional Japanese garden. A visit to the park is a good way to get in touch with your inner peace, and it’s also the perfect place to see some of the city’s local culture.
Mount Fuji
Climbing Mt. Fuji is an exciting adventure in Japan. The imposing mountain, 3776 meters high, is accessible via varying trails. Climbers typically take between four and eight hours for the entire journey. The most popular base for Mt. Fuji climbers is the Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station, which is conveniently located near the main tourist areas and provides resting areas along the way.
The best way to see Mt. Fuji from Tokyo is from the shinkansen bullet train. You will arrive at the Shin-Fuji Station and have a wonderful view of Mount Fuji in the distance. However, you’ll probably have to brave the clouds to get a clear view of the volcano. If you are traveling during a cloudy season, the best times to view Mount Fuji are early morning and late evening.
The pagoda on top of Mount Fuji is one of the most popular images of Japan. You’ll find plenty of cherry blossoms adorning its base. Visit it during the cherry blossom season and in November when maple trees turn red. Taking a train to Shimo-Yoshida Station along the Fujikyu Railway Line will get you to the shrine in a few minutes. Another interesting sight is the nearby Oshino Hakkai village, which offers postcard-worthy views of Mount Fuji.
Izu Peninsula
The Izu Peninsula is a popular retreat for Tokyoites. Situated just a couple of hours south of the capital, this peninsula is a natural wonderland brimming with nature. You’ll find white-sand beaches, pristine water, glorious hot springs, and a fascinating history and local folklore. Read on to learn about some of the best things to do while you’re here.
The most popular beaches on the Izu Peninsula are Atami and Ito. Although the beaches are more picturesque in the southern part, they’re not the easiest to access by car. A 3.5-hour train ride up the eastern coast will bring you to the southern beaches, but you’ll have to get a transfer from one beach to another. You’ll need to spend at least one night in either Atami or Izu-Kogen before visiting the southern beaches.
The Izu Peninsula’s dramatic landscape is made all the more spectacular by its pristine beaches. Take a hike to Cape Irozaki, which features a rocky cliff. There are also many trails that take you through unspoiled nature, with spectacular views of the sea. You can even go inside a cave! Its ceiling is lined with 3 million daffodils, and the surrounding area is full of quaint little towns and villages.