Japan’s diverse culture makes it somewhat of a paradox, with the entire country being a delicate blend of ultra-modern and beautifully traditional. A short trip along the winding alleys of the best cities in Japan unveils a labyrinth of endless activity and exploration.
The best cities to visit in Japan will vary depending on your interests, but luckily the country has something for everyone, ranging from beautiful beaches to modern metropolises.
What are the best cities to visit in Japan?
Top cities in Japan to immerse yourself in culture and history
Best cities in Japan for urban travel
Top cities in Japan to experience nature
Best city in Japan for a gastronomical experience
Best cities in Japan to immerse yourself in culture and history
Kyoto
Compared to some of the more modern cities in Japan, Kyoto feels more traditional, and that is precisely why you should visit. The former capital is dripping with history, and you will find numerous beautiful temples.
I recommend waking up early and heading up Fushimi Inari Shrine before the crowds come. Then take a stroll along the Philosopher’s Path and bask in the area’s serenity. I rented a bicycle to explore the whole city and recommend it highly.
Kyoto’s biggest attraction comes to life in late March to early April, and the cherry blossom spots bloom and are indeed a sight to behold.
The food in Kyoto makes it one of the best cities in Japan. The ramen I had here was the best in Japan. You can find Kyoto GOGYO around Nishiki Market, but you’ll have to wait in line.
READ MORE: Kyoto is also one of the best romantic anniversary destinations in the world
Hiroshima
Steeped in history from the infamous atomic bomb which destroyed the city in 1945, Hiroshima is one of the top cities in Japan for those seeking some history.
Pay your respects at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, commonly called the Genbaku Dome, Atomic Bomb Dome or A-Bomb Dome, and visit the area’s museum for a closer delve into the events of that fateful August 6th day.
The local speciality is okonomiyaki, a Japanese savoury pancake, and it is delicious. Nearby you can find Miyajima Island, which requires a short ferry ride to visit. There is a giant floating torii gate which is one of the largest in Japan. The island is also full of deer like at Nara, so if you are short on time, I’d recommend coming here because the island coupled with the city of Hiroshima means there is more to do.
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Himeji
The serenity and accessibility of Himeji makes it the perfect destination for a 1-day getaway from the busy life in Osaka.
Be sure to visit the Himeji Castle, a UNESCO Heritage Site and a National Treasure of Japan. The magnificent white castle is the biggest and most visited castle in the nation and boasts a rich history and significance.
The entrance fee here is about $10 for adults and $3 for students. Expect to spend about 2 to 4 hours exploring the six levels of the Main Keep. If you are lucky, you could secure a ticket in the peak season and enjoy the cherry blossoms.
Don’t forget to visit Kokoen Garden or Engyo-ji Temple for some incredible views.
READ MORE: Himeji Castle is one of the most famous castles in the world
Top cities in Japan for urban travel
Osaka
Osaka was the first city I visited in Japan and my overall favourite, it’s one of the best cities to visit in Japan.
The metro area is excellent to explore on foot, and the parks are beautiful. Make sure to visit Shirokita Park, which is near the waterfront and then take a stroll down the river and enjoy a drink at one of the many riverside bars.
Stepping foot into Dotonbori, the main tourist area, is an assault on the senses at first. But you’ll be left in awe as the chaotic nightlight makes way for neon lights and canal boats. Enjoy some food on one of the many nightspots that line the canal and soak everything in.
If you have time, the Osaka aquarium is also worth taking a visit too as it’s one of the largest in the world.
READ MORE: Did you know that Osaka is one of the largest cities in the world (although it’s not the largest in Japan)?
Tokyo
Tokyo has something for everyone. It’s one of the best cities to visit in Japan (and in the world) if you are looking for some diversity. It has Akihabara for all the diehard anime fans and more traditional spots like the cramped bars of Shinjuku Golden Gai for those wanting a taste of the city’s nightlife.
Simply walking the streets of Shinjuku and soaking up the atmosphere is an activity in itself. But be sure to check out Ameya Yokocho market in Ueno and stop at the host of incredible street food spots. It’s also a popular shopping district and nearby the beautiful Ueno Park.
I’d also highly recommend getting a free birdseye view of the city up the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building which is located in Shinjuku. For something unique, take a trip down to TeamLab Borderless for an immersive digital art experience.
READ MORE: Amazing Tokyo made our list of the top 10 best cities in the world
Narita
Home to Japan’s busiest airport and located about 60 kilometres away from Tokyo, tourists tend to leave Narita out of the itinerary. If you are lucky enough to get a long layover in Narita Airport, I recommend venturing out into the area for a few hidden gems.
For a day trip, you can check out Japan’s first aeronautical museum and experience a flight simulator. For some last-minute shopping, head to Aeon Mall or Shisui Premium Outlet and you could grab some really good deals. If you are travelling for business looking to just relax, get in an onsen fix at Yamato No Yu or have a quick stroll on “Plane-Spotting Hill” Sakura-no-Yama Park.
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Best cities in Japan to experience nature
Hakone
Sitting just an hour and a half from Tokyo, I am often amazed at how many people pass Hakone by. The mountainous area is one of the top cities in Japan for a retreat from the chaos of Tokyo and is well known for the abundance of onsens, the Japanese hot spring resorts.
Make sure to get a Hakone Free Pass which enables you to use all transport in the region under one travel card. A boat ride across Lake Ashi will give you a spectacular view of the famous red torii gate, and on a clear day, you’ll even get a glimpse of Mount Fuji. A cable car over Ōwakudani, the active volcano, is also included in the pass.
For the active among you, I highly recommend hiking up Mount Kintoki. At 1,212m above sea level, it takes a few hours to climb but will give you a perfect view of the snow-capped Mount Fuji. The hike alone made this one of my top cities in Japan. It’s also free.
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Naha
Naha is one of the best cities in Japan if you are looking for a beach break while on your Japanese adventure. It is the capital of Okinawa, a beautiful prefecture made up of an array of islands.
While in Naha make sure to check out the Naminoue Beach for some sun, Shurijo Castle for some culture, and First Makishi Public Market for a bite to eat. Naha acts as a hub for the other islands in the region. So take a boat tour to explore the variety of snorkelling, swimming, and other activities on offer.
READ MORE: While in Okinawa make sure you explore one of the largest aquariums in the world
Beppu
The city of Beppu is the most popular hot spring resort in Japan – a title brought about by having over 2,000 hot springs vents that account for 10% of the vents in the country. Domestic and foreign travelers flock to Beppu just for its unbeatable range of onsen activities.
Besides the conventional hot water, the resorts here offer other bath types such as mud, steam or sand baths. After you have pampered yourself with the abundance of thermal water that Beppu has to offer, check out some of the ‘hells”, which are hot springs for viewing only. I would recommend visiting Umi Jigoku or Chinoike Jigoku for a more interesting photo op.
Foodies can have a taste of fugu, or blowfish, in the various restaurants scattered in the area. For those feeling a little less adventurous, have a go at steam cooking at Jisokumushi Kobo Steam Cooking Center.
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Best city in Japan for a gastronomical experience
Kobe
The Japanese have always been known for their precision, reliability and expertise in their craft. For food, Kobe is the perfect summation of gastronomical excellence. If there has to be a city that foodies cannot miss out, it’s Kobe – for Kobe beef, obviously.
The city is not just good for its famous beef. Indulge in sake at the breweries in Nada while checking out the various museums in Japan’s district with the top sake production – admission is free.
If you need to get in a good workout, a 40-60 minute hiking trail from Shin-Kobe Station will take you through some decent views of Nunobiki Waterfall and Nunobiki Herb Garden. The best view awaits you at the top station of Shin-Kobe Ropeway, where you can get an aerial view of the city at the observatory.
READ MORE: Are you a foodie? Would you dare trying the most bizarre and weird food from around the world?
The beauty of Japan is that there is something for every traveler. Whether it’s taking in the breathtaking views of the skyline in the metropolis or stumbling upon a quaint eatery in a cobbled alley, Japan offers a truly unique experience for each visitor she welcomes.
Check out our Japan Travel Guide for tips on everything you need
to know when planning your trip to Japan so you can make the
most of your time in the Land of the Rising Sun!
