Handn blog Here are the top 10 tourist destinations in Japan recommended for foreigners.
Japan is rich in history, beautiful natural landscapes, and modern cities coexisting together, making it a fascinating destination.
Tokyo Tower, a symbol of Tokyo, is a 333-meter-tall radio tower. Completed in 1958, it has since become a popular spot for tourists. The observation deck offers a panoramic view of Tokyo, renowned for its beautiful nightscape. On clear days, you can even see Mount Fuji in the distance.
There are many shopping malls and restaurants around Tokyo Tower. At the base of the tower is a complex called “Foot Town,” which includes restaurants, souvenir shops, an aquarium, and a wax museum. Tokyo Tower can be enjoyed day and night, capturing the energy of Tokyo.
Tokyo Skytree is known as the tallest self-supporting broadcast tower in the world, standing at 634 meters. It opened in 2012 and has become Tokyo’s new landmark. From the observation deck, you can get a sweeping view of Tokyo, and sometimes even see Mount Fuji on a clear day. The sunset and night views are particularly stunning and worth a visit.
Skytree Town offers various facilities, making it an enjoyable spot for a full day. Tokyo Solamachi, located within Skytree, is a shopping mall with over 300 shops and restaurants. The Sumida Aquarium and a planetarium are also part of the complex, making it a great destination for families. The nighttime illumination of Skytree changes according to the season and events, providing a fresh experience each visit.
Sensoji Temple, the oldest temple in Tokyo, is very popular among foreign tourists. The large lantern at Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate) is a symbol of Asakusa and a famous photo spot. Nakamise Street, which extends from Kaminarimon to the main hall, is lined with shops where you can enjoy souvenirs and street food.
The main hall of Sensoji Temple is bustling with visitors, offering a glimpse of traditional Japanese culture. The temple grounds include a five-story pagoda and Kannon Hall, among other sights. Asakusa also boasts many traditional confectionery shops and kimono rental stores, making it popular to stroll around in traditional attire. Additionally, from the observation terrace of the Asakusa Culture and Tourist Information Center, you can enjoy beautiful views of Skytree and the Sumida River.
Kinkakuji in Kyoto attracts tourists from all over the world with its beautiful golden building. Officially known as Rokuonji, it is widely known as Kinkakuji. It was registered as a World Heritage Site in 1994, and its stunning appearance can be enjoyed with the seasonal landscapes.
The reflection of Kinkakuji in the pond and garden is a fantastic photo spot throughout the year. Whether it’s cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, colorful leaves in autumn, or snowy scenes in winter, each season offers a unique charm. Nearby, there are other notable sites such as Ginkakuji and Ryoanji, allowing you to immerse yourself in Kyoto’s history and culture for a whole day.
Nara Park is famous for its freely roaming deer, with over 1,200 of them living in the park. The deer are very friendly and you can feed them deer crackers, which can be purchased from vendors in the park. The sight of deer bowing for food is charming.
Within Nara Park, there are historic temples and shrines, such as Todai-ji, Kasuga Taisha, and Kofuku-ji, which are also World Heritage Sites. The Great Buddha Hall of Todai-ji, one of the largest wooden buildings in the world, houses an enormous Buddha statue. Nara Park is a place where you can enjoy both ancient culture and beautiful nature.
Hakone has been a beloved hot spring destination for many years. There are numerous hot spring inns where you can enjoy views of beautiful mountains and Lake Ashi from open-air baths. Hakone’s hot springs are varied, known for their beautifying and relaxing effects. Accommodation ranges from traditional inns to modern hotels, catering to all types of travelers.
Owakudani, where you can see volcanic activity up close, is another must-see. The sight of rising steam and enjoying black eggs (boiled in the hot springs) is a unique experience. Hakone is a place to feel the wonders of nature. Traveling around Hakone using the Hakone Tozan Railway, cable cars, and ropeways is fun, allowing you to enjoy the seasonal landscapes. There are many museums and art galleries, adding a cultural aspect to your visit.
Hakodate is famous for its beautiful night views. The night view from Mount Hakodate is called the “Million Dollar Night View” and is one of the world’s three best nightscapes. You can take a ropeway to the top and enjoy the view of the city and harbor lights.
Goryokaku is another symbol of Hakodate. From the Goryokaku Tower, you can see the star-shaped fortress in its entirety, and the unique shape is impressive. In spring, the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, making it a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing. You can enjoy a leisurely stroll or picnic in Goryokaku Park.
The Hakodate Morning Market is the best place to enjoy fresh seafood. It opens early in the morning, offering crabs, sea urchins, and salmon roe that you can eat on the spot. Hakodate’s food culture is rich, with salt ramen and seafood rice bowls being particularly popular. Hakodate is a charming city where you can enjoy history, nature, and gourmet food.
Ishigaki Island in Okinawa is a resort destination known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear sea. The tropical atmosphere of Ishigaki Island is warm year-round, attracting many tourists. You can enjoy marine sports such as snorkeling and diving, and the view of Kabira Bay is breathtaking. The bay’s beautiful blue sea and white sandy beaches are the highlights of sightseeing.
There are many nearby islands accessible by ferry from Ishigaki Island, each with its own unique charm and different natural environments and cultures. For example, Taketomi Island and Iriomote Island are worth visiting. The island has many natural attractions, including limestone caves, waterfalls, and mountain viewpoints.
At night, you can enjoy the beautiful starry sky of Ishigaki Island. At Ishigaki Island Astronomical Observatory, you can observe the stars through telescopes, including the Southern Cross, a constellation unique to the southern regions. Ishigaki Island’s food culture is also attractive, offering traditional Okinawan dishes and fresh seafood. Ishigaki beef steak and Okinawa soba are especially recommended.
Sapporo in Hokkaido is famous for its winter snow festival. Held every February, the Sapporo Snow Festival features snow and ice sculptures displayed in Odori Park, with light-ups at night. The festival attracts many tourists from both Japan and abroad to enjoy the beautiful sculptures.
Sapporo is enjoyable year-round. In the summer, you can enjoy beer and Genghis Khan (grilled mutton) at the Sapporo Beer Garden. At the Sapporo Beer Museum, you can learn about the history and brewing process of beer while enjoying tastings. Odori Park hosts various events throughout the year and is a pleasant place for a stroll.
The Sapporo TV Tower, a symbol of Sapporo, has an observation deck offering a panoramic view of the city. The Sapporo Clock Tower and the former Hokkaido Government Office are also notable historical buildings. Sapporo’s food culture is rich, offering fresh seafood rice bowls, ramen, and soup curry, allowing you to enjoy the flavors unique to Hokkaido.
Kanazawa is a beautiful city where tradition and modernity blend. Kenrokuen is one of Japan’s three great gardens, and its beauty can be enjoyed year-round. The garden features ponds, waterfalls, and tea houses, providing stunning views in every season. Particularly during cherry blossom season in spring and the autumn foliage, it attracts many visitors.
Higashi Chaya District is lined with traditional tea houses, giving you a taste of old Japan. You can enjoy matcha and Japanese sweets in the tea houses, and strolling around in a kimono is also recommended. The 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art in Kanazawa is another highlight, showcasing modern art. The museum’s transparent pool artwork is particularly popular and a great spot for social media photos.
Kanazawa Castle, with its well-preserved grounds and park, is perfect for a leisurely walk. Kanazawa’s food culture is also a major attraction, offering fresh seafood and Kaga cuisine. Omicho Market is a great place to enjoy fresh seafood and local specialties.
How did you find this list? These destinations offer diverse experiences of Japan’s charm.
Be sure to visit and enjoy the wonders of Japan.
