Japan, located in Eastern Asia, is a sovereign nation. It is well known for its bustling cities, imperial palaces, national parks and lots of beautifully constructed temples. Tokyo, the capital of the country, is a much-visited tourist destination, home to tonnes of skyscrapers. There is a lot to do in Japan, from adventure sports to relaxing at the beach and discovering the real beauty of Japanese architecture.

The best time to visit Japan is during spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). This is when Japan is at its most vibrant, with delicate cherry blossom or bright red leaves adding contrast to the scenery. Remember, it can also be very crowded at this time.

Japanese cuisine is also steeped in tradition. Rice forms an essential component of their meals. Seafood is very common and is accompanied by sides like fish, pickled vegetables, etc. Frying of seafood, i.e., tempura, is also very popular. Their rice dishes are served with a soup such as miso soup. The seasonality of food is also taken into consideration. The food is most commonly seasoned with soy sauce, dashi, sake, vinegar, etc. Concerning beverages, green tea, sake and beer are consumed on a large scale. Sushi is possibly the first thing visitors to the country try, but there is so much more to Japanese cuisine than beautifully served raw fish.

The stores of Japan are filled to bursting with everything under the sun. From traditional craft pieces to the latest gadgets, local food and the latest fashion, you will find all that you need here. Suburban shopping malls also exist. Convenience stores and department stores are available aplenty, stocked with good quality products for everyday use. Souvenirs can be bought from the local stores.

The most widely spoken language in Japan is Japanese, which is separated into several dialects with Tokyo dialect considered Standard Japanese.

1. TOKYO

Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is in every sense- a mix. This city is known for its technological prowess, its quirky pop culture, and its simultaneous attachment to tradition. With every area having something different to offer, it is truly the best place for any tourist seeking variety and adventure. Nestled in South-Eastern Japan, Tokyo boasts not only of towering sky-scrapers, immaculate roads and architecture, but also of forests, traditional shrines and cherry blossoms in the spring.

Places to visit in Tokyo: Tokyo Sky Tree, Shibuya, Tokyo Royal Palace, Meiji Shrine, Tokyo National Museum, Harajuku, Tokyo DisneySea, Hamarikyu Gardens, Kabukicho, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

2. OSAKA

Japan’s second-most important city, Osaka is a city unlike the ultra-modern Tokyo and the traditional Kyoto, with a character of its own. Even the locals speak a unique Japanese dialect. Its charm may seem ubiquitous at first, hidden along large buildings and business centres, but Osaka offers delights for all kinds of people- from the connoisseurs to children. Whether it is the Universal Studios, the thousands of pachinko machines and arcades, or cultural remnants and beautiful riversides, Osaka has it all. But what Osaka is most famous for- is indeed, food. With every street dotted with traditional Japanese food and Osaka being the origin of sushi conveyor belts, one may get a wonderful taste of Japan in Osaka’s streets. Osaka also has a bustling nightlife.

Places to visit in Osaka: Universal Studios, Osaka Castle, Tennoji, Bunraku Theatre, Minami, Bay Area

3. KYOTO

Kyoto, once the capital of Japan, has played a major role in Japanese culture and history. Like stepping inside a time capsule, the city is known for its’ Buddhist temples, gardens, imperial palaces, Shinto shrines and traditional wooden Japanese houses. Put simply: this feels like the ancient heart of Japan. With every street, mountain and shrine having something to offer, Kyoto is a must-visit for a rich, wholesome cultural experience. Kyoto also has a diverse range of cuisine, enough to delight the most seasoned connoisseur. In conclusion, Kyoto is the best option for the relaxed tourist, who seeks to explore and discover traditional culture, and adventure.

Places to visit in Kyoto: Gion District, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Hōkanji Temple, Uzumasa Eigamura, Ginkakuji, Sagano Scenic Railway, Chion-In, Nishiki market, Kyoto Tower

4. SAPPORO

Sapporo is the largest city in Hokkaido, Japan, located in the Ishikari Subprefecture. It is a popular tourist destination known for its snow festivals, delicious seafood, and nearby ski resorts. Tourists should visit the Sapporo Clock Tower, an iconic symbol of the city, and Odori Park, a large park located in the center of Sapporo. Other attractions include the Sapporo Beer Museum, the Sapporo TV Tower, and the Sapporo Snow Festival, a popular winter event held annually.

The Sapporo Snow Festival is a must-see for anyone visiting Sapporo. The festival draws over two million people a year and features elaborate ice sculptures, illuminated snow statues, and an outdoor concert. Visitors can also enjoy winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling.

Places to visit in Sapporo: Odori Park, Tanukikoji Shopping Street, Sapporo Dome, Hokkaido Jingu, Mt. Moiwa

5. NAHA

Naha is the largest city in Okinawa, Japan, and one of the major tourist attractions in the country. It’s known for its tropical climate, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife. Located on the southernmost island of Okinawa, Naha is a great place to visit for both beach-goers and culture-seekers alike.

The city is home to many tourist attractions, such as Shuri Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Okinawa Prefectural Museum and Art Museum, and the Ryukyu Mura theme park. The bustling Kokusai-dori shopping street is a great spot to find souvenirs and local delicacies. Naha is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars and restaurants to explore.

Places to visit in Naha: Shuri Castle, Okinawa Prefectural Museum and Art Museum, Ryukyu Mura Theme Park

6. HIROSHIMA

Hiroshima, a symbol of resistance and rebirth, deserves to be at the top of your bucket list of places to visit in Japan. With a rich historic past that extends well beyond the tragic 1945 events, a vibrant city life, wonderful local cuisine, and gorgeous surroundings as it lies by the blue waters of Hiroshima Bay, let’s take a look at everything Hiroshima has to offer!

The most iconic and heartbreaking attraction in Hiroshima is the Atomic Bomb Dome, the only structure left standing in the wake of the devastating atomic bombing in 1945. This UNESCO World Heritage Site stands as a reminder of the tragedy and serves as a symbol of hope for peace and a nuclear-free future. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum is also a must-see, with artifacts, stories, and photographs that provide a deeper understanding of the events of August 1945. Other popular attractions in Hiroshima include the Shukkeien Garden, a traditional Japanese garden with over 300 years of history, and Hiroshima Castle, a castle fortress dating back to the 16th century. There is also the Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art, which features artwork from around the world, and the Hiroshima Prefectural Art Museum, which houses a collection of modern and traditional Japanese art.

Places to visit in Hiroshima: Atomic Bomb Dome, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, Shukkeien Garden, Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art

7. HAKONE

Located in the Kanto region of Japan, Hakone is a popular tourist destination for those looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. It has something for everyone, from hot springs to lakes to amazing views from the top of Mt. Fuji, making it a great place for a weekend getaway.

Hakone’s main attraction is its hot springs, or “onsen.” There are many different types of onsen to choose from, each with its own unique qualities. Many of the onsen have outdoor baths that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape, making it a great place to relax and take in the scenery. Hakone also has several lakes, such as Lake Ashi, which offer amazing views of Mt. Fuji. The area surrounding Hakone is full of attractions, such as the Hakone Shrine, which is known for its stunning views and traditional atmosphere. The Open Air Museum, which houses sculptures from around the world, is also a must-see. For those wanting to take in a bit of history, the Hakone Sekisho, or old checkpoint, is also a great place to visit. Hakone also offers plenty of activities for tourists to enjoy. Boating, hiking, and biking are all popular activities in the area.

Places to visit in Hakone: Lake Ashi, Hakone Shrine, Open Air Museum, Hakone Sekisho, or old checkpoint

8. YOKOHAMA

Yokohama is a vibrant port city located south of Tokyo, Japan. It is a popular tourist destination renowned for its amazing skyline, beautiful parks, and scrumptious cuisine. The city’s most famous attraction is the Minato Mirai 21 district, which features the Landmark Tower, one of the tallest buildings in Japan.

In terms of activities to do in Yokohama, visitors can explore the city’s many parks, including Sankei-en Garden and Yamashita Park. The Cosmo World amusement park and the Cup Noodle Museum are also popular attractions. Foodies can enjoy Yokohama’s famous ramen, seafood, and Asian fusion dishes. When visiting Yokohama, travelers should also take the time to explore the surrounding areas, including Kamakura, Miura, and Kawasaki.

Places to visit in Yokohama: Yokohama Minato Mirai 21, Yokohama Chinatown, Sankeien Gardens, Sankeien Gardens, Cup Noodles Museum Yokohama, Yamashita Park, Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse

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