Beyond Tokyo: Discovering Japan's Best Places to Visit

1. Kyoto

To start our list of cool places to visit in Japan, we have Kyoto, the former imperial capital of Japan. Kyoto is steeped in natural beauty, history and culture. It’s home to over 1,600 temples and shrines, many parks, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Choosing which places to visit isn’t easy, but some of the top must-visit sites include Fushimi Inari Taisha, Ryoan-ji, Ginkaku-ji and Kiyomizu-dera.

Along with its many attractions, visitors can walk to explore Arashiyama, a scenic district known for its picturesque bamboo groves, riverbanks and temples. Then, stroll through the Gion District, famous for its well-preserved wooden machiya houses, tea houses and geisha culture. 

To discover the best of Japan, a trip to Kyoto isn’t complete without getting a taste of its mouth-watering cuisine. Visitors can indulge in specialties like kaiseki, yudofu, matcha treats and Kyoto-style sushi. Kyoto is also known for its skilled artisans, who are renowned for their craftsmanship. Explorers can stop by markets and galleries in neighborhoods like Nishijin Textile Center and Kiyomizu-Zaka Street to find ceramics, traditional paper and textiles.

2. Osaka

Japan’s third-largest city, Osaka, is a world-famous seaport known for its historical landmarks, modern architecture, street food culture and bustling nightlife, which is why we’ve put it on our list of recommended places to visit in Japan.

To start your adventures in Osaka, cruise the Tombori River, where you can enjoy views of the city’s skyline and iconic landmarks like the Tsutenkaku Tower. Then, visit the Osaka Castle, one of the city’s most popular landmarks. This castle serves as a symbol of the city’s rich history, with a museum detailing the history of the samurai and an observation deck to take in the city’s sights.

A popular neighborhood in Osaka is Dotonbori, known for its neon lights and colorful signage that creates a vibrant atmosphere. As you wander the streets, you can enjoy street food like takoyaki and okonomiyaki. 

3. Hiroshima

One of the best places to visit in Japan for first timers is Hiroshima, located in the western region of Japan. Hiroshima is known for its dark past, as it was the target of the first atomic bomb dropped during World War II. Despite its tragic history, Hiroshima became a vibrant and lively city that honors its heartbreaking legacy while highlighting its natural beauty.

What makes Hiroshima one of the most beautiful places to visit in Japan is its many attractions, like the Shukkeien Garden. This traditional Japanese garden offers visitors a peaceful oasis from the liveliness of the city, allowing visitors to walk its quaint paths and explore its many ponds, bridges, tea houses, carefully landscaped greenery and blissful cherry blossom trees.

A visit to Hiroshima also requires a stop at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, which commemorates the victims of the atomic bombing and houses several memorial and monuments that serve as a reminder of the destructive power of nuclear weapons. Located within the park is the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, which offers detailed exhibits and firsthand accounts of the bombs to offer visitors insights into the city’s history and the impact of the bomb on its residents.

4. Hokkaido

For visitors looking to explore Northern Japan, a visit to Hokkaido is a must. As the northernmost island in the archipelago, Hokkaido is renowned for its natural beauty and distinct seasons and outdoor activities. 

Visitors to Hokkaido can enjoy a wide range of experiences. As one of the most beautiful places in Japan, exploring natural attractions like Daisetsuzan National Park, with its alpine scenery and hot springs, or Shiretoko National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its diverse wildlife and coastline, is a must. Other natural attractions include Lake Toya, great for boating and hiking, and Furano and Biei, a quaint countryside known for its rolling hills and flower fields.

What makes Hokkaido great for those exploring Japan with grandchildren is its cultural experiences, as the area is rich in Ainu culture, where visitors can learn about the region’s indigenous population at the Ainu Museum in Shiraoi. Families can also enjoy winter activities like skiing and snowboarding at resorts like Niseko and Kiroro.

Explore the Best Places to Visit in Japan With Road Scholar

If you’re looking for the top places to visit in Japan, look no further than Road Scholar. In our collection of educational tours of Japan, you can find a wide range of programs that meet an expansive array of interests. Walk through lush forests and mountain paths to discover hidden temples in areas like Fukuoka or Nagayu Onsen. You can also immerse yourself in the traditions and history in places like Kiso-Fukushima to learn about the traditional woodblock printing process or the daily life of those from the Edo period.

Regardless of your adventure, you will join a diverse cohort of lifelong learners curious about the world. Our expert guides will walk you through the landscapes, history and cultures of the regions you visit and answer any thought-provoking questions you have. Together, you will enjoy spirited conversations that help you forge lasting memories and relationships for a truly authentic learning experience. Browse our selection of tours in Japan today to explore some of the best places to visit in Japan.