UNVEILING THE LAND OF RISING SUN – JAPAN

If all those retro vibes trapped in a modern country that looks nothing like the West excites you to travel to Japan and explore the land, then here is the best guide to get a glimpse of the 10 best places that you can plan to visit for your first trip to Japan.

This enchanted island country is located in East Asia, bordering the Pacific Ocean and is surrounded by splendid mountains and a vast terrain of forest. Japan has everything from mountain side onsen (hot spring) villages, beach-lined islands and megacities, thus offering a real feast for travellers. Though one can spend a lifetime wandering in the countries’ delicacies, just to help you plan your short trip here are top 10 picks. 

 

1. TOKYO

The capital of the country is the top spot for the combination of modern and traditional styles. It is an international metropolis, providing sites of contemporary art and architecture, pop culture, shopping, drinking and entertainment.

WHEN IN TOKYO DON’T MISS-

• Commercialised streets of Ginza, Shinjuku, Odaiba and enjoy delicious sushi and Kabuki performances in Ginza, manifesting Japan’s culture.
• Senso-ji Temple, Ghibli Museum, Tokyo Disneyland, Tokyo Skytree, Tokyo DisneySea, and Tokyo Tower, from here you can get a sight of the entire city and also the magnificent Fuji Mount.
• For a less commercialised and more traditional place, prefer visiting the Imperial Palace and Meiji Shrine.

 

2. KYOTO

Listed as a World Heritage Site in 1994, it is well known as Japan’s imperial capital and is rich in historical sites. Kyoto is the symbol of oldness and history and will give you a whole new experience, that is different from any other city in Japan. There is no paucity of temples, castles and old buildings here, which will tell you about the history of Japan.

WHEN IN KYOTO DON’T MISS-

• A visit to the cascading water at Kiyomizu Temple, especially in the spring season, to witness the cherry blossom.
• Explore the town of Miyami, Kyoto Imperial Palace, Nijo Castle and Philosopher’s Path.
• To experience Japan’s culture, pay a visit to the Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine, Yasaka Jinja Shrine, Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Temple), Tenryu-ji Temple, and Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple.

 

3. HAKONE

Another serene landscape in Japan is Hakone, where you can enjoy hot springs and have a great bathing experience. Adding to it, there are many other picture-perfect natural scenery. Due to frequent volcanic activity, Hakone is home to splendid mountainous terrain, lakes, and hot springs.

WHEN IN HAKONE DON’T MISS-

• First, on your arrival, buy a Hakone Free Pass to get access to all transport options in Hakone. 
• Enjoy the mesmerizing view of Mount Fuji from the southeast bank of the Ashi Lake and take a relaxing bath in the hot spring theme park.
• The black egg of the Owakudani Valley needs to be tried.
• Ropeway to the boiling sulphur pits and Open-Air Museum, where you can have a view of lifelike sculptures, also adds to the list.

 

4. OSAKA

The pleasant climate of the city attracts a number of tourists. The city is known for its local delicacies, and a variety of activities, and is honored as a cultural delight. Osaka is a must-visit for all foodies and party lovers, as it offers incredible food and top nightlife hotspots. Start by exploring the city from Osaka Bay, where you’ll get a chance to witness the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and also witness the aquatic life of the Pacific.

WHEN IN OSAKA DON’T MISS-

• The dazzling view of the cherry blossom of the spring season and the fireworks that brighten the night sky in summer to celebrate Tenjin Masturi.
• Other tourist attractions worth visiting are Universal Studios Japan, Osaka Castle, Dotonbori, Kaiyukan Aquarium, and Hozenji Temple. 

 

5. NARA

Nara, is another choice for travellers looking for a serene and composed place, dotted with many UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This is a sacred city in which the most majestic and oldest Buddhist temples and shrines can be seen, surrounded by well-preserved canals and ponds. Also, the place is home to adorable deers.

Cherry blossoms and Nara Park further add to the serenity of the city.

WHEN IN NARA DON’T MISS- 

• Immense sight of the Daibutsu-den at Todaiji, which is the world’s largest wooden building.
• Unmissable places to visit in Nara are Kasuga-taisha, Ninja Museum of Igaryu, Isuien Garden, Nara-koen Park, and Nara National Museum.

 

6. YOKOHAMA

This is Japan’s second-largest city and is the hub of commercial, economic and cultural activities after Tokyo.

Start exploring the city from the second-tallest building in Japan, which is the Yokohama Landmark Tower. Here you can enjoy the picturesque night view of colourful lights and the beautiful sky wheel with a gentle night breeze.

Yokohama Chinatown is what distinguishes the city from others. Over 200 Chinese restaurants are open here. If you’re fond of street food, it’s the best pick for you. With traditional food, you can even enjoy a traditional oriental performance, the lion dance, here.

WHEN IN YOKOHAMA DON’T MISS-

• Top attractions in the city are the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise and Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum.
• Relax at Sankeien Garden or Enoshima Island after a tiring stroll in the city.

 

7. SAPPORO

The paradise of snow, Sapporo, is a great place to visit in the winter when you can become a part of the Sapporo Snow Festival, one of Japan’s largest winter festivals.

Other than in winter also, the blossoming flowers in the city add to its beauty.

WHEN IN SAPPORO DON’T MISS-

• Places like the Sapporo Beer Museum, Moerenuma Park, Sapporo Odor Park and Sapporo Art Park will definitely give you reasons to visit the place again.
• Party in Susukinno and enjoy local delicacies at the Club Market.

 

8. NAGOYA

Nagoya is another place where you can be a witness to scenic temples and shrines. Nagoya stores one of the oldest shrines in Japan, Atsuta Shrine, whose roof is covered with copper.

To take a break from the ancient structures, you can even visit the Nagoya TV Tower, which provides a beautiful view of the city at night.

WHEN IN NAGOYA DON’T MISS- 

• Unfold ancient tales of Japan by visiting Nagoya Castle, Osu Kannon, Atsuta Jingu, and Iwasaki Castle.
• Also add Higashiyama Zoo, Botanical Gardens, Tokugawa Garden, and Nagoya City Science Museum to your list.
• Cherry blossoms and the amazing landscape of Tsuruma Park await your visit.

 

9. HIROSHIMA

Almost everyone has heard of this city for witnessing the world’s first nuclear attack. To acknowledge the tragic event, you can visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park here. However, don’t carry with you an image of the devastated city while visiting the place, as the city has taken a second birth and is well-established now.

WHEN IN HIROSHIMA DON’T MISS-

• A visit to the famous floating torii gate at Itsukushima shrine.
• Try the local delicacy, okonomiyaki.
• Other tourist attractions are Hiroshima Castle, Shukkeien Garden, and Mazda Museum.

 

10. OKINAWA

The last one on the list is Okinawa, dotted with a chain of tropical islands in southern Japan. The place is full of beaches, colourful coral reefs, subtropical jungles, and rich cultural heritage, and hence is known for its virgin beauty. To enjoy marine life, you can visit the aquarium in Okinawa. Besides nature, even the palace and reconstructed castle here catch the eyes of visitors. The beautiful starry sky here will give a perfect ending to your trip.

WHEN IN OKINAWA DON’T MISS-

• Idyllic destinations worth visiting here are Shuri Castle, Churaumi Aquarium, Okinawa Peace Memorial Park, Okinawa World, Cape Manza, Kume Islands, and Zamami Island.
• Superb snorkeling and diving activities.
• For anime and game fans, Pokemon Center Okinawa is a worthy destination.

 

CONCLUSION

Whenever you decide to visit Japan, the list will help you a bit in arranging your itinerary and you’ll have an amazing time in Japan, exploring its ever-developing and fast city life while, at the same time, experiencing the charm and tranquility of its culture.

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