31 Best Places to Visit in Japan

Japan is a beautiful country filled with surprises for every type of traveller, from adventure seekers to history buffs. The country offers you a lot to do and see, from temples and shrines to mountains, gardens, palaces, and skyscrapers.

Currency in Japan: The official currency in Japan is the Yen. 1 Yen is equal to 0.60 Indian Rupee as of 3 March 2023.

*Currency rate change is subject to the market exchange rate.

While planning to visit Japan, check the current currency exchange rate for the country. Ensure to carry enough money in Yen to cover all your expenses during your stay. There are famous city attractions, beaches, UNESCO world heritage sites, national parks, temples, and several more to enjoy.

However, first, let's get the details of the picturesque, well-governed, and modern cities in Japan that have different types of tourist attractions that you should explore. These are as follows:

1. Tokyo Tower, Minato City

Tokyo Tower is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Tokyo, Japan. The tower resembles similarities with the great Eiffel Tower in Paris. Tourists can climb to the top of this tower and enjoy the bird’s eye view of the vibrant Tokyo city. The tower also has marvellous architecture and it symbolises the power and economic growth of Japan.

• Nearby Tourist Attractions: Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Senso-ji, Meiji Jingu, Tokyo National Museum
• Things to Do: Watching the panoramic city view, enjoying bright illumination at night
• Location: 4 Chome-2-8 Shibakoen, Minato City
• Timing: 10:30 am to 8 pm
• Entry Fee: 1200 Yen (for adults)

2. Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, Minato Ward

source:wikipedia

If you want to have a different experience in Japan, you must visit Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan. It is one of the biggest structures in the whole world that offers a great view of the marine world. Under the glass tunnel, you can enjoy several marine creatures swimming above the tunnel. You can watch these creatures not only from Japan but also from Antarctica, Monterey Bay, the Pacific Ocean, etc. Visiting the aquarium during the night is suggested to enjoy the magical lit-up environment.

• Nearby Tourist Attractions: Osaka Castle, Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel, Umeda Sky Building, Shitenonji
• Things to Do: Enjoy watching several types of marine creatures
• Location: Chome 1-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato Ward
• Timing: 10:30 am to 7 pm
• Entry Fee: 2550 Yen (for adults), 1300 Yen (for children)

3. Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel, Osaka

The Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel is a prime attraction in Osaka and can give you an adrenaline-boosting riding experience. Besides, the night view of the city of Osaka from the top of this Ferris wheel will charm you with amazing beauty. The wheel has been serving tourists since 1997 and they can enjoy a 17-minute ride on this Ferris wheel. Further, taking a ride at night gives the best view of the city.

• Nearby Tourist Attractions: Super Nintendo World, Hollywood Dream-The Ride, Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, Osaka Castle
• Things to Do: Enjoying the ride, bright lighting, and gorgeous city view
• Location: 1-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato Ward
• Timing: 10 am to 8 pm
• Entry Fee: 800 Yen (for adults)

4. Universal Studios Japan, Osaka

source:wikipedia

Universal Studios is one of the famous tourist places in Japan, in the city of Osaka where you can enjoy multiple attractive shows and themed rides based on Harry Potter, Spiderman, Japanese animation, monster hunter shows, etc. The place attracts over 10 million visitors every year and also offers to enjoy different pop-culture franchises.

• Nearby Tourist Attractions: Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, Osaka Castle, Space Fantasy-The Ride, Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel
• Things to Do: Enjoying attractive themed rides such as The Flying Dinosaur, Jurassic Park, Harry Potter, etc.
• Location: 1-33 Sakurajima, Osaka Prefecture
• Timing: 8:30 am to 9 pm
• Entry Fee: 5000 Yen (for adults)

5. Tokyo Skytree, Sumida City

Tokyo Skytree is also a popular structure in Japan and people gather here to enjoy all sorts of modern entertainment. The panoramic view of the city of Tokyo from this tower mesmerises visitors. Besides, there are multiple luxurious cafes, and restaurants to enjoy lavish treats. In addition, one can also spend quality time in the museum, aquarium, planetarium, and souvenir stores inside Tokyo Skytree.

• Nearby Tourist Attractions: Senso-ji, National Museum of Nature and Science, Tokyo National Museum, Tokyo Disneyland
• Things to Do: Shopping, watching the top view of Tokyo city, enjoying dining at luxurious restaurants
• Location: 1 Chome-1-2 Oshiage, Sumida City
• Timing: 9 am to 8 pm
• Entry Fee: 850 Yen (for adults)

6. Tokyo Disneyland, Urayasu

source:wikipedia

One of the great places to visit in Japan and a perfect weekend getaway, Tokyo Disneyland is a charming place for both children and adults. The amusement park is established on 115 acres of land and has a lot to offer to visitors. Tourists can enjoy multiple rides, lip-smacking food, and several other fun elements here. Moreover, the Disney Sea is another prime attraction of Tokyo Disneyland which is a water park full of thrilling watersports.

• Nearby Tourist Attractions: Senso-ji, Tokyo Skytree, Tokyo Tower, National Museum of Nature and Science,
• Things to Do: Experiencing adventurous and thrilling rides, and exploring different theme parks inside Disneyland
• Location: 1-1 Maihama, Urayasu
• Timing: 8 am to 10 pm
• Entry Fee: 14800 Yen (for adults), 8800 Yen (for children)

7. Osaka Castle, Chuo Ward

Japan is the bearer of great Eastern culture, heritage, and architecture and Osaka Castle is a great instance of those. Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a popular Japanese warrior built this castle in 1586. The castle was however reconstructed several times after that. The main tourist attraction of this castle is the main tower and the museum where visitors can explore the history of Tokyo city.

• Nearby Tourist Attractions: Universal Studios Japan, Shitennoji, Osaka Castle Park, Osaka Aquarium, Dotonbori
• Things to Do: Exploring the history of Japan and Samurais by visiting the museums, watching great architecture
• Location: 1-1 Osakajo, Chuo Ward
• Timing: 9 am to 5 pm
• Entry Fee: 600 Yen (for adults)

The natural beauty of Japan is preserved in its beaches and highlands. Visit the following places during your trip to Japan:

8. Jodogahama Beach, Miyako City

Jodogahama Beach on Rikuchu Coast is a cosy beach made with volcanic white rocks. The quiet ambience of this beach is perfect for enjoying peaceful vacation days. The beach is also called “Pure Land Beach” for its vivid picture-perfect beauty. Apart from enjoying the beach activities, tourists can also go to the nearby trails and enjoy trekking and hiking.

• Nearby Tourist Attractions: Iwate Prefectural Fishery Science Museum, Miyako City Gyosai Market
• Things to Do: Swimming, fishing, enjoying watersports, cruising
• Location: Iwate Prefecture
• Timing: Throughout the day
• Entry Fee: Free

9. Okinawa Beach, South Japan

Enjoy a great and refreshing tropical climate on Okinawa Beach in Japan. You can visit this beach almost throughout the year and enjoy several activities such as scuba diving, snorkelling, swimming, etc. Apart from this, the beach is also surrounded by a hilly landscape where you can enjoy hiking.

• Nearby Tourist Attractions: Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, Nakanoyu, Awase Polder, Cape Manzamo
• Things to Do: Star-gazing, nature walking, enjoying different cuisine, diving, swimming, enjoying watersports
• Location: Southernmost part of Japan
• Timing: Throughout the day
• Entry Fee: Free

10. Kamakura Beaches, Kanagawa Prefecture

Not so far from the city of Tokyo, Kamakura Beach is a beach lovers’ paradise. It is also a perfect weekend destination for the local people. Kamakura beaches consist of three separate beaches and among them, Yuigahama and Zaimokuza are the busiest. There are multiple beachside cafes in this region where visitors can enjoy the delicious local cuisine.

• Nearby Tourist Attractions: Kamakura Yuigahama Beach, Cape Inamuragasaki, Large Bronze Buddha Statue
• Things to Do: Enjoying beach activities, hiking, going to nearby places,
• Location: Miura Peninsula, Kanagawa Prefecture
• Timing: Throughout the day
• Entry Fee: Free

11. Zushi Beach, Kamakura

Located in close proximity to Tokyo, Zushi Beach is one of the prime tourist destinations of Japan. However, there are some restrictions on this beach such as no sound system, no tattoos, etc. Thus, everyone can enjoy a peaceful vacation in this place. To enjoy more, you can go hiking on the nearby trails and enjoy great beachside food.

• Nearby Tourist Attractions: Hasedera, Hokokuji Temple, Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gu, Yamashita Park
• Things to Do: Enjoy staying in luxurious resorts, swimming, snorkelling, and enjoying watersports
• Location: Kamakura
• Timing: Throughout the day
• Entry Fee: Free

12. Mount Takao, Tokyo

Mount Takao is the next great mountain after Mount Fuji and a very popular tourist spot. Every year a huge number of climbers come to explore the natural and scenic beauty of this mountain. In addition, in the surrounding area of this mountain, there are different destinations for Gourmet food where you can enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine.

• Nearby Tourist Attractions: Takanoyama Yakuoin Yukiji Temple, Meiji Jingu, Showa Memorial Park
• Things to Do: Cable car riding, hiking, trekking, nature walk
• Location: Hachiōji, Tokyo
• Timing: Throughout the day
• Entry Fee: Free

13. Mt. Fuji, Honshu

Along with Mount Tate and Mount Haku, Mount Fuji forms the ‘Three Holy Mountains’ in Japan. Mt. Fuji is the epitome of natural beauty and is a haven for mountaineers. The mountain has many names: Fuji-san, Fujisan, Sanmyaku, and Hakone-san. A  UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2013, Mt. Fuji has been considered sacred since ancient times, and it is one of the few tourist places in Japan where you can see snow on top of a volcano.

• Nearby Tourist Attractions: Mount Tenjo, Chureito Pagoda, and Fujiyoshida Sengen Shrine.
• Things to Do: Rock climbing, trekking, hiking, visiting nearby places, paragliding
• Location: Yamanashi, Central Honshu
• Timing: Throughout the day
• Entry Fee: Free

Japan is known for beautiful pagodas dedicated to Lord Buddha. Pilgrims and tourists come from all over the world to visit these places. Here are a bunch of religious places that you can visit in Japan:

14. Asakusa, Tokyo

Asakusa is a religious destination in Japan full of shrines, peaceful gardens, and temples. Here you can explore the traditional structures of Japan. One of the famous attractions of this place is the Sanja Matsuri Festival. Apart from this, you can also get some delicious Japanese street food in this region.

• Nearby Tourist Attractions: Senso-ji, Tokyo Skytree, Kaminarimon Gate, Nakamise-Dori Street
• Things to Do: Beach activities, religious activities, nature walk
• Location: Taito, Tokyo
• Timing: Throughout the day
• Entry Fee: Free

15. Tsukiji HonganJi, Kabuki-za

Tsukiji HonganJi is a great centre of Buddhism and has an enormous structure made with Asian and European architecture. You will marvel at the great stone structures of this temple, statues, and motifs. Every day numerous devotees come to this temple to offer their prayers to Lord Buddha.

• Nearby Tourist Attractions: Tsukiji Market, Imperial Palace, Imperial Hotel Tokyo, Kabuki-za
• Things to Do: Exploring the surrounding localities, religious activities
• Location: Chuo City, Tokyo
• Timing: 6 am to 4 pm
• Entry Fee: Free

16. Hozenji, Osaka

Located in Dotonbori, Osaka, Hozenji is a great place for pilgrims. Apart from its religious importance, you will also witness a beautiful lit-up ambience here. The place is extremely peaceful and helps you to calm your soul with its tranquillity.

• Nearby Tourist Attractions: Universal Studios Japan, Shitennoji, Kuromon Ichiba Market, Osaka Castle, Dotonbari
• Things to Do: Exploring art and architecture, religious activities
• Location: Chuo Ward, Osaka
• Timing: Throughout the day
• Entry Fee: Free

17. Shitenno Ji Temple, Osaka

A great historical place in Japan, the Shitenno Ji Temple of Osaka is one of the prime tourist attractions. It happened to be the first Buddhist temple in Japan. Here you can explore a five-storey pagoda and magnificent architectural excellence. Apart from these, there are beautiful paintings, statues, and many more attractions to explore.

• Nearby Tourist Attractions: Harukas, Osaka Castle Park, Universal Studios Japan, Kuromon Ichiba Market
• Things to Do: Exploring history, indulging in religious activities
• Location: Tennoji Ward, Osaka
• Timing: 8 am to 4 pm
• Entry Fee: 500 Yen (for adults), 300 Yen (for senior citizens)

18. Shin Yakushi Ji, Nara

Founded in 747 in Japan, Shin Yakushi Ji is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan. The temple was built by Empress Komyo and since then it has been a prominent epicentre of practising Buddhism. Here you can see different historical and cultural assets and also go to the nearby tourist spots to have a complete day trip.

• Nearby Tourist Attractions: Nara Park, Kasuga-Taisha, Todai-ji, Nara National Museum, Kofuku-ji
• Things to Do: Exploring history, enjoying nature, exploring architecture
• Location: Takabatakecho, Nara, Japan
• Timing: 9 am to 5 pm
• Entry Fee: 600 Yen (for adults)

If you are a nature and wildlife enthusiast, add the following national parks to your itinerary of Japan:

19. Ishigaki National Park, Yaeyama Islands

Ishigaki National Park in Japan is one of the most beautiful natural tourist destinations. The place is highly popular for its scenic beauty. This archipelago will let you observe coral reefs, diverse marine life, and also the largest mangrove forest in Japan. In addition, you can also spot the Iriomote cat which is an endangered species. With its eye-catching seascape, it is one of the prime spots for spending a refreshing day tour in Japan.

• Nearby Tourist Attractions: Kaira Bay, Yonehara Beach, Banna Park,  Ishigaki Stalactite Cave, Ishigaki Yaima Village
• Things to Do: Exploring wildlife, scuba diving, and snorkelling, exploring the surrounding
• Location: Yaeyama Islands, East China Sea
• Timing: Throughout the day
• Entry Fee: Free

20. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, Kanagawa Prefectures

Located in Mount Fuji, This national park draws a huge amount of tourists every day. This is a volcanic mountain full of lush greenery and a variety of wildlife throughout the surrounding region. You can explore mysterious caves, indulge in adventure sports, or take a bath in hot springs. In addition, you can also enjoy swimming with dolphins in this national park.

• Nearby Tourist Attractions: Fuji-Q Highland, Hakone Shrine, Shira-Ito Waterfall, Chureito Pagoda
• Things to Do: Enjoying natural abundance, kayaking, boat riding
• Location: Yamanashi, Shizuoka, Kanagawa Prefectures
• Timing: Throughout the day
• Entry Fee: 1400 Yen (for adults)

21. Kirishima Kinkowan National Park, Kyushu

Kirishima Kinkowan National Park is a natural tourist spot in Japan and it allows you to have a great experience overall. The crater lake here is a great spot for birdwatching. Apart from this, there are ancient shrines in this region that you can explore. The panoramic hilly landscape of this place is perfect for nature photography.

• Nearby Tourist Attractions: Kirishima Jingu Shrine, Ebino Plateau, Arimura Lava Observation Deck
• Things to Do: Watching volcanoes, exploring the hot spring, Ebino Highland camping, bird watching, hiking
• Location: Southern Kyushu
• Timing: 9 am to 5 pm
• Entry Fee: Free

Being a cultural epicentre of the Eastern world, Japan has different UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These are as follows:

22. Horyuji Temple, Nara

Horyuji Temple is a famous UNESCO World Heritage site in Japan, which was built by Prince Shotoku, who spread Buddhism in ancient times. The structure is the world’s oldest remaining wooden structure and has great historical value. Every year a huge number of tourists visit this place to resemble the great past of Japan and the early stage of spreading Buddhism.

• Nearby Tourist Attractions: Todai-ji, Nara Park, Hase-dera, Chugu-ji
• Things to Do: Exploring history, historical artefacts, exploring architecture
• Location: Ikoma district, Nara
• Timing: 8 am to 4:30 pm
• Entry Fee: 1500 Yen (for adults), 750 Yen (for children)

23. Hiroshima Genbaku Dome, Hiroshima

Hiroshima Genbaku Dome is a structure inside Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum which is a very popular tourist attraction for its connection with the past. It is among those surviving structures that stood firmly after the unfortunate bomb explosion. However, this bomb dome is the source of knowledge about Hiroshima, and its economical and industrial growth.

• Nearby Tourist Attractions: Peace Memorial Park-Hiroshima, Hiroshima Castle, Hiroshima Museum of Art, Shukkeien
• Things to Do: Exploring museums, history, and architecture
• Location: Ōtemachi, Naka Ward
• Timing: Throughout the day
• Entry Fee: 200 Yen (for adults)

24. National Museum of Western Art, Tokyo

The National Museum of Western Art is one of the most visited tourist places in Japan. Designed by Le Corbusier, the building of this museum has a great architectural structure. Tourists can explore different historical elements in this museum and can have a great deal of Japan’s history.

• Nearby Tourist Attractions: Tokyo Bunka Kaikan, Takanodai Foundation, Hideyo Noguchi Statue
• Things to Do: Exploring scientific, cultural, artistic, and historical elements
• Location: Ueno Park, Taito, Central Tokyo
• Timing: 9:30 am to 5:30 pm
• Entry Fee: 400 Yen (for adults), 200 Yen (for children)

25. Yakushima, Kagoshima Prefecture

Yakushima is among the UNESCO nature world heritage sites in Japan filled with ancient cedar forests. This subtropical island has several trekking trails and natural spots where people can enjoy spending refreshing day trips. During winter months you can enjoy the snowfall on this mountain.

• Nearby Tourist Attractions: Shiratani Unsui Gorge, Yakusugi Land, Jomon Sugi, Drum rock
• Things to Do: Enjoying nature, trekking, hiking, adventure sports
• Location: Osumi islands, Kagoshima Prefecture
• Timing: Throughout the day
• Entry Fee: Free

26. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, Hiroshima

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum in Japan is a must-visit for every tourist to find out about Japan’s revival from a post-bombing state. The park is dedicated to the casualties of the Hiroshima bombing. By exploring this place you will certainly know about its history and how much peace is important for mankind.

• Nearby Tourist Attractions: Atomic Bomb Dome, Peace Memorial Park, Hiroshima Castle, Shukkeien
• Things to Do: Exploring the history
• Location: Naka Ward, Hiroshima
• Timing: 8:30 am to 6 pm
• Entry Fee: 200 Yen (for adults)

27. Edo Tokyo Museum, Tokyo

Edo Tokyo Museum is one of the famous places to visit in Japan. You can have a great insightful tour by visiting Edo Tokyo Museum in Japan. You will have interactive installations, historical elements, colourful artwork, and many more. The museum speaks about the growth and progression of Tokyo which was previously named Edo.

• Nearby Tourist Attractions: Tokyo Skytree, Senso-ji, Tokyo National Museum, Imperial Palace, Meiji Jingu
• Things to Do: Exploring the growth of Tokyo
• Location: Sumida City, Tokyo
• Timing: 9:30 am to 6:30 pm
• Entry Fee: 600 Yen (for adults)

28. Ghibli Museum, Tokyo

This is a great place for exploring the journey of Japanese animation. Here you can explore the animation studio of Miyazaki Hayao, one of the most renowned film producers in this world. Apart from this, you can also marvel at the big-size robots, figurines, drawings, and many more.

• Nearby Tourist Attractions: Inokashira Park, Meiji Jingu, Tokyo Disneyland, Tokyo Skytree
• Things to Do: Exploring the growth of animation
• Location: Mitaka Tokyo
• Timing: 10 am to 6 pm
• Entry Fee: 1000 Yen (for adults)

29. Tokyo National Museum, Taito

Among the oldest and most well-maintained museums, the Tokyo National Museum is one of the popular tourist places in Japan. Here you can watch over 10000 pieces of historical artefacts and more than 100 natural treasures. In addition, there are seasonal exhibitions that tourists can enjoy a lot.

• Nearby Tourist Attractions: Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, National Museum of Nature and Science, Ueno Park, Tokyo Skytree
• Things to Do: Exploring artefacts, and historical pieces, enjoying seasonal exhibitions
• Location: Taito City, Tokyo
• Timing: 9:30 am to 5 pm
• Entry Fee: 500 to 1000 Yen (for adults)

30. National Museum of Art, Osaka

Are you an art lover? Then the National Museum of Art should be on the list of Japan's itinerary. You can explore art pieces from the post-war world of different renowned artists. Apart from this, there are some nearby attractions that can fill you in on the cultural, and artistic heritage of Japan.

• Nearby Tourist Attractions: Osaka Castle, Osaka Science Museum, Universal Studios Japan, Umeda Sky Building
• Things to Do: Watching the great collection of international art, mainly from the post-war period
• Location: Nakanoshima, Kita Ward
• Timing: 9 am to 5:30 pm
• Entry Fee: 430 Yen (for adults)

31. Kyushu National Museum, Fukuoka

You can pay a visit to Kyushu National Museum to explore the great history of Japan. Not only that, there is a huge collection of prehistoric artefacts and relics in this museum that are worth visiting. Besides, you can also find out about the trade relationship between Japan and other countries from this museum.

• Nearby Tourist Attractions: Fukuoka Tower, Kushida Shrine, Komyozenji
• Things to Do: Watching the collection of art, and historical artefacts
• Location: Dazaifu, Fukuoka
• Timing: 9:30 am to 4:30 pm
• Entry Fee: 350 to 750 Yen (for adults)