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Planning a trip to Japan and not sure where to base yourself? Japan is packed with incredible cities, each offering unique experiences — from ancient temples and geisha districts to neon-lit nightlife and peaceful gardens.

This guide breaks down the top cities in Japan by their main attractions, the best area to stay in each, and tips for choosing the best hotels. So if you’re wondering where to go in Japan, keep reading to gain a better understanding of which cities you should visit and where to stay when you’re there.

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Where to Visit in Japan for First-Timers

Understanding Japan’s Layout

Before you can know where to go in Japan, you need a basic understanding of the layout. Japan is divided into 47 prefectures, kind of like states or provinces. Inside those prefectures are cities, towns, and villages. But if you’re not familiar with Japan’s prefectures, this can get confusing really quickly. For example:

Tokyo is both a city and a prefecture.
Kyoto City is in Kyoto Prefecture.
Fujikawaguchiko is a town in Yamanashi Prefecture.

But honestly, you don’t even need to worry about prefectures. We won’t even mention them again in this post. Instead, we’ll just refer to each place as a “city” or destination to keep things simple — even if it’s technically a town or region. You’ll find that this is how most other tourists refer to areas of Japan, too.

Best Place to Start in Japan

If you’re flying to Japan from abroad, chances are you’ll land in Tokyo. In general, it’s the easiest and most affordable international gateway for most travelers. Tokyo has two major airports (Narita – NRT and Haneda – HND), and the widest selection of flight options (and often the best prices).

But that doesn’t mean you have to start your trip there. If you’re a repeat visitor, or Tokyo just isn’t on your bucket list, there are other international airports worth considering, especially if you plan to explore a specific region. Here are a few alternatives:

Osaka (Kansai International Airport – KIX): A great starting point for Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, and even Hiroshima. It’s especially convenient if you’re planning to stick to western Japan.
Nagoya (Chubu Centrair – NGO): Less touristy but well-located for central Japan. It’s an underrated option if you’re heading to the Japanese Alps or want to explore more off the beaten path.
Fukuoka (FUK): The best way to reach Kyushu, Japan’s southern island. Ideal for hot springs, volcanoes, and incredible food.
Sapporo (New Chitose – CTS): For snow, skiing, and all things Hokkaido — especially in winter.
Okinawa (Naha Airport – OKA): If you’re skipping mainland Japan and heading straight to the islands, Naha is your go-to.

If you’re planning to visit multiple regions, you can also consider open-jaw flights — flying into one city (like Tokyo) and out of another (like Osaka). It’s a great way to see more of the country without backtracking. This is what we did!

Best Cities to Visit in Japan

When most people think of Japan, they only picture Tokyo — and while it’s an unforgettable city, there’s so much more to see beyond the capital. From peaceful mountain villages to buzzing food hubs and historic towns full of charm, Japan is packed with incredible places to explore. Below, we’ve rounded up the best cities to visit in Japan, based on what they’re known for, who they’re best suited for, and why they might (or might not) belong on your itinerary.

The Most Popular Cities in Japan

These are the cities most travelers visit on their first or second trip. They’re tourist-friendly, packed with attractions, and well-connected by train.

Tokyo

The capital; modern, bustling, full of neighborhoods, shopping, food, culture, and nightlife.

Iconic City Highlights

Shibuya Crossing & Hachiko Statue – Snap a photo at the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing and visit the loyal dog statue nearby.
Tokyo Tower – A red-and-white Eiffel-style tower with panoramic city views.
Tokyo Skytree – The tallest structure in Japan with observation decks and a mall at its base.

Trendy Shopping & Pop Culture

Harajuku & Takeshita Street – Youth culture, fashion, crepes, quirky cafes.
Omotesando – Tokyo’s upscale shopping avenue, often called the Champs-Élysées of Japan.
Akihabara – A haven for anime, manga, arcades, and electronic goods.

Temples, Shrines & Culture

Meiji Shrine – A peaceful forested Shinto shrine near Harajuku.
Senso-ji Temple (Asakusa) – Tokyo’s oldest and most famous Buddhist temple.
Ueno Park – A cultural hub with multiple museums and cherry blossoms in spring.
Ryōgoku Sumo District – Visit sumo stables or catch a match during tournament season.

Food Experiences

Instagram-Famous Eats – Trendy cafes, colorful desserts, and over-the-top cocktails at aesthetic spots like Bar Centifolia and Aoyama Flower Market Tea House.
Depachika (Department Store Food Halls) – Gourmet food basements under department stores like Isetan and Mitsukoshi.

Art & Immersive Experiences

teamLab Borderless and teamLab Planets – Immersive digital art museums (highly Instagrammable).
Street Kart Tours – Mario Kart-inspired go-kart tours on the real streets of Tokyo while in costume.
Ghibli Museum (Mitaka) – A whimsical museum celebrating Studio Ghibli films.

Theme Parks

Tokyo Disneyland – Classic Disney magic, tailored for Japanese audiences.
Tokyo DisneySea – A one-of-a-kind park themed around ocean exploration — a must even for non-Disney fans.

Where to Stay in Tokyo

The best area to stay in Tokyo is Shinjuku. It’s lively and central, with tons of restaurants, shopping, and nightlife. And it’s an excellent transportation hub for both inner city exploration and day trips!

Popular Day Trips from Tokyo

Yokohama – Waterfront city with a giant Ferris wheel, ramen museum, and Japan’s largest Chinatown.
Mt. Fuji / Kawaguchiko – Scenic lake views and the best spot for seeing Fuji up close.
Nikko – UNESCO-listed temples, waterfalls, and nature just a couple hours north.
Kamakura – A coastal town with shrines, hiking trails, and the iconic Great Buddha.

Kyoto

Temples, shrines, geisha, traditional culture, tea ceremonies, and bamboo forests.

Famous Temples & Shrines

Fushimi Inari Taisha – The iconic tunnel of 10,000 red torii gates climbing up the mountain.
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) – A shimmering Zen temple covered in gold leaf, surrounded by a peaceful pond.
Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) – Less flashy than its golden counterpart but equally beautiful, with a tranquil moss garden.
Kiyomizu-dera – A dramatic hillside temple with sweeping views of Kyoto, especially popular during the cherry blossom and fall seasons.
Yasaka Shrine – A bright orange shrine located between Gion and Maruyama Park, popular during festivals.

Traditional Districts & Streets

Gion – Kyoto’s famous geisha district with teahouses, narrow lanes, and a strong traditional vibe.
Higashiyama District – Charming streets like Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka lined with historic shops and cafés near Kiyomizu-dera.
Pontocho Alley – A narrow lane along the river known for its lantern-lit restaurants and occasional geisha sightings.

Gardens, Nature & Scenic Walks

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove – A surreal forest of towering bamboo stalks; best visited early morning to avoid crowds.
Iwatayama Monkey Park (Arashiyama) – A short hike leads to a mountaintop with wild monkeys and panoramic city views.
Philosopher’s Path – A peaceful stone walkway along a canal, especially beautiful during cherry blossom season.
Maruyama Park – Popular for hanami (cherry blossom viewing) and scenic strolls.

Historic Sites & Castles

Nijo Castle – A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its “nightingale floors” that chirp when walked on.
Kyoto Imperial Palace – The former residence of Japan’s Imperial family, located in a large public park.

Cultural Experiences & Museums

Kyoto National Museum – One of Japan’s top art museums for classical Japanese works.
Kyoto International Manga Museum – A must-visit for manga fans.
Nishiki Market – Known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” it’s packed with food vendors selling everything from tofu donuts to pickled vegetables.

Food & Tea Culture

Kaiseki Dining – Experience Kyoto’s elegant multi-course seasonal cuisine at a traditional ryokan or upscale restaurant.
Tea Ceremonies – Participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony — many venues in Gion offer these.
Matcha Everything – Try matcha soft serve, matcha lattes, and even matcha soba in Kyoto’s many tea houses.

Hands-On Experiences

Kimono Rental & Photoshoots – Many tourists enjoy renting a kimono to walk through the historic districts.
Calligraphy, Tea, or Cooking Classes – Kyoto offers countless workshops for travelers wanting a hands-on cultural experience.

Where to Stay in Kyoto

The best area to stay in Kyoto is near the Kyoto Station. It’s extremely convenient for arriving by Shinkansen (bullet train) and for day trips. You can also access buses here to popular sites like Arashiyama and Fushimi Inari.

Popular Day Trips from Kyoto

Nara – Home to friendly, free-roaming deer and the massive Great Buddha statue at Todai-ji Temple, a day trip to Nara can take as little as 4 hours — especially if your main goal is feeding the bowing deer.
Uji – Famous for its high-quality matcha and the stunning Byodoin Temple (featured on the ¥10 coin).
Osaka – Just 15–30 minutes away by train, you’ll find neon lights, street food, and high energy vibes similar to Tokyo.

Osaka

Street food capital, nightlife, Universal Studios Japan, and Osaka Castle.

Historic Landmarks & Castles

Osaka Castle – A restored castle with a museum inside and panoramic views from the top floor. Surrounded by a beautiful park, especially scenic during the cherry blossom season.
Shitenno-ji Temple – Japan’s oldest officially administered temple, founded in 593 AD.
Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine – One of Japan’s oldest Shinto shrines, known for its iconic arched bridge.

Modern Attractions & Entertainment

Universal Studios Japan – One of the country’s top theme parks, home to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Super Nintendo World, and thrilling rides.
Tempozan Ferris Wheel – A giant Ferris wheel near Osaka Bay with sweeping views of the city and harbor.
Umeda Sky Building – Features a futuristic “Floating Garden” observation deck with incredible skyline views.

Museums & Aquariums

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan – One of the largest and most impressive aquariums in the world, with a huge central tank and marine life from the Pacific Rim.
Cup Noodles Museum (Ikeda) – A fun and interactive museum where you can create your own instant noodle cup.
Osaka Museum of Housing and Living – Step back in time and experience life in Osaka during the Edo Period.

Famous Food Streets & Neighborhoods

Dotonbori – Osaka’s most iconic neighborhood, filled with neon signs, giant food displays (like the Glico man and giant crab), and endless street food.
Shinsekai – A retro neighborhood with deep-fried skewers (kushikatsu), quirky bars, and a local feel.
Kuromon Ichiba Market – A bustling covered market packed with fresh seafood, wagyu skewers, fruit-on-a-stick, and more.

Shopping Districts

Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street – A long, covered arcade with everything from luxury brands to quirky boutiques.
Amerikamura (“Amemura”) – Known as Osaka’s version of Harajuku, this youthful area is full of trendy fashion, cafes, and street art.
Nipponbashi Denden Town – Osaka’s electronics and anime district, similar to Akihabara in Tokyo.

Cultural Experiences & Nightlife

Namba Yasaka Shrine – Known for its lion-shaped stage, this unique shrine is perfect for a quick visit and photo op.
Watch a Bunraku Puppet Show – Bunraku, traditional Japanese puppet theater, originated in Osaka.
Live Comedy at Namba Grand Kagetsu – Osaka is known as Japan’s comedy capital. Catch a live manzai (stand-up duo) performance — even if you don’t speak Japanese, it’s a cultural experience.

Where to Stay in Osaka

The best area to stay in Osaka is Namba. It’s right in the heart of street food, shopping, and nightlife. Plus, it’s easy to transfer to both Kyoto and Nara from here.

Popular Day Trips from Osaka

Kyoto – Just 15–30 minutes away by train, perfect for a temple-hopping day trip.
Nara – A full or half day trip to Nara is ideal if you want to see the deer and temples in a single afternoon.
Himeji – Home to Japan’s most famous and best-preserved castle, Himeji-jo.

Nara

Home to free-roaming deer, Todai-ji temple, and Japan’s first capital city.

Nara Park & Friendly Deer

Nara Park (Nara Koen) – A large public park where hundreds of free-roaming deer bow to visitors in exchange for special deer crackers (shika senbei). It’s the heart of Nara sightseeing.
Deer Feeding Experience – Buy crackers from local vendors and try your luck feeding the (sometimes aggressive) but always photogenic deer.

Temples, Shrines & Historic Sites

Todai-ji Temple – One of Japan’s most famous temples, home to the Daibutsu (Great Buddha), one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in the world.
Kasuga Taisha Shrine – A stunning Shinto shrine known for its hundreds of bronze and stone lanterns lining mossy paths.
Kofuku-ji Temple – Located near Nara Park, this historic temple features a beautiful five-story pagoda and a small treasure hall with Buddhist art.
Nigatsu-do Hall – An atmospheric hall within the Todai-ji complex offering amazing panoramic views of Nara, especially at sunset.
Yoshiki-en Garden – A peaceful traditional Japanese garden near Todai-ji, and free for foreign tourists with a passport.

Museums & Cultural Stops

Nara National Museum – A must for history buffs, featuring rotating exhibitions of Buddhist art and artifacts.
Isuien Garden – A classic example of Japanese landscaping with a scenic pond, tea house, and backdrop views of Todai-ji.

Local Food & Street Snacks

Kaki no Ha Sushi – If you’re excited about local cuisine but unsure of what to eat in Japan, this specialty should be on your list! It’s pressed sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves, and it’s only found in Nara.
Mochi Pounding at Nakatanidou – Watch a live mochi-pounding show and taste the freshest yomogi mochi (a chewy green rice cake filled with red bean paste).
Traditional Japanese Tea Houses – Many are tucked around the park, offering matcha and wagashi (sweets).

Iconic Photo Spots

Todai-ji Great Buddha Hall (Daibutsuden) – Snap a photo of the massive wooden structure and its even more massive Buddha.
Deer Bowing or Eating from Your Hand – A tourist classic.
Lantern-lined Paths of Kasuga Taisha – Especially magical during lantern festivals or early morning.

Where to Stay in Nara

Nara is best as a day trip, but if you do find yourself staying the night, we recommend choosing a hotel near the JR Nara Station or the Kintetsu-Nara Station. Both are just steps from the deer park and within walking distance to Todai-ji Temple.

Popular Day Trips from Nara

Best as a Day Trip from Kyoto or Osaka – Nara is not a good base, it works better as a day trip from Kyoto or Osaka.

Fujikawaguchiko

Best views of Mt. Fuji, lakeside hotels, glamping, and seasonal flower festivals.

Iconic Mt. Fuji Views

Chureito Pagoda – One of the most photographed views of Mt. Fuji, especially stunning during cherry blossom season and fall foliage.
Lake Kawaguchi (Kawaguchi-ko) – The most accessible of the Fuji Five Lakes, perfect for boat rides, lakeside strolls, or scenic bike rentals with Fuji views.
Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway – Ride up Mt. Tenjo for sweeping views of Lake Kawaguchi and Mt. Fuji. Short hike options at the top, too.
Oishi Park – A seasonal flower park with incredible photo ops of Mt. Fuji framed by lavender (summer) or cosmos (fall).

Relaxing Activities & Nature

Sightseeing Boat Cruise on Lake Kawaguchi – Offers peaceful, panoramic views from the water.
Momiji Corridor (Momiji Kairo) – A tree-lined path that glows with red and orange maple leaves in autumn.
Walking and Cycling Trails – Scenic paths around the lake for casual walks or bike rentals.

Onsen Experiences

Hotel Konansou or Fuji View Hotel – Stay at a ryokan with a private or public onsen and views of Mt. Fuji right from the bath.
Yurari Onsen – A day-use hot spring facility with open-air baths and Fuji-facing soaking tubs.

Theme Parks & Museums

Fuji-Q Highland – A high-thrill amusement park with record-breaking roller coasters and a haunted hospital.
Kubota Itchiku Art Museum – Dedicated to the stunning kimono art of Itchiku Kubota, set in a peaceful forested area.
Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum – A quirky, European-style garden and museum dedicated to mechanical music boxes (with great views too!).

Souvenirs & Local Treats

Mt. Fuji Shaped Melon Bread & Soft Serve – Found at souvenir shops around the lake.
Fujiyama Cookies & Mt. Fuji Chocolates – Local specialty gifts shaped like Fuji.
Local Cafés with Fuji Views – Many small cafés around the lake offer great coffee, sweets, and window seating with unbeatable scenery.

Where to Stay in Fujikawaguchiko

If you’re staying in Fujikawaguchiko without a car, we recommend staying near the Kawaguchiko Station. The area near the station is bustling with shops, restaurants, and hotels. But if you rent a car, we recommend glamping somewhere with a view of Mt. Fuji. The town is small, so with your own car, anywhere you stay is convenient.

Popular Day Trips from Fujikawaguchiko

Best with a Rental Car – This is a rural location, so unless you’re on an organized tour, we recommend renting a car in Fujikawaguchiko (even on a day trip from Tokyo).
Chureito Pagoda in Arakurayama Sengen Park – Technically still in the area, but worth a separate visit for that postcard Fuji view.
Oshino Hakkai – A peaceful village known for its eight crystal-clear spring ponds, traditional thatched-roof buildings, and scenic views of Fuji.
Fuji-Q Highland – A theme park with record-breaking roller coasters and great Fuji views.

Nagano

Access point to the Japanese Alps and Zenko-ji temple, famous for snow monkeys.

Unique Animal Encounters

Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park – Home to wild Japanese macaques who famously bathe in steaming hot springs during the snowy winter months. But here’s the fun part — the monkeys are there year-round! While they may not soak as much in the summer, they’re still just as entertaining to watch. And if you visit in the spring like we did, you’ll likely spot adorable baby monkeys!

Historic & Cultural Attractions

Zenko-ji Temple – One of the most important and popular temples in Japan, dating back to the 7th century. It’s free to enter, and early morning rituals are open to the public.
Togakushi Shrine – A series of five shrines tucked into the forested mountains, connected by scenic walking trails and towering cedar trees. Also home to ninja legends!

Winter Sports & Mountain Adventures

Hakuba Valley – A world-class ski and snowboard destination that hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics. Great for winter sports or alpine hiking in the summer.
Shiga Kogen – One of Japan’s largest and highest ski areas, also known for beautiful hiking trails and hot springs in the off-season.
Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort – A charming traditional town with a local onsen culture and great powder skiing.

Outdoor & Wellness Activities

Kamikochi (seasonal) – Technically in Nagano Prefecture but closer to Takayama, this alpine valley is stunning for hiking and scenery. Open from April to November.
Tsumago-juku & the Nakasendo Trail – A preserved Edo-period post town and a beautiful hike connecting it to nearby Magome. It’s like stepping back in time.

Local Food to Try

Shinshu Soba – Nagano’s regional buckwheat noodles are famous throughout Japan. Often handmade and served cold with dipping sauce or in hot broth.
Oyaki – Savory dumplings filled with vegetables, miso, or sweet red bean, steamed or grilled.
Apples – Nagano is Japan’s top apple-producing region. Look for fresh apples, cider, and apple-flavored sweets.

Relaxation & Traditional Stays

Nozawa Onsen Village – In addition to skiing, this town has 13 free public bathhouses (soto-yu) and lovely ryokans.
Bessho Onsen – A peaceful hot spring town near Ueda, known for its historic temples and old-school ryokan stays.

Where to Stay in Nagano

If your main reason for visiting Nagano is to see the Snow Monkeys, we highly recommend staying at a hotel near the base of the Snow Monkey Park. This gives you the best chance to be among the first in the park when the monkeys are most active. Since the park is quite far from Nagano Station, it’s easiest to drive yourself or take a local bus from the station. A taxi is also possible, but it can be expensive due to the distance.

Popular Day Trips from Nagano

Snow Monkey Park (Jigokudani Yaen Koen) – The main reason to visit Nagano: See the snow monkeys in Japan bathing in hot springs (the monkeys are there year-round, but it only snows during the winter).
Matsumoto – Visit Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan’s best original castles, and enjoy the scenic alpine setting.
Togakushi – Famous for soba noodles, shrines hidden in the forest, and ninja folklore.

Hiroshima

Peace Memorial Park, the Atomic Bomb Dome, and nearby Miyajima Island.

Historical Sites & Peace Memorials

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park – A beautiful and somber park dedicated to the victims of the atomic bomb.
Atomic Bomb Dome (Genbaku Dome) – The preserved remains of one of the few buildings left standing near ground zero.
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum – A powerful, emotional museum documenting the bombing and advocating for world peace.
Children’s Peace Monument – A tribute to the children who died from the bomb, inspired by Sadako Sasaki and her paper cranes.

Cultural Sites & Temples

Hiroshima Castle (Carp Castle) – A reconstructed castle with a museum inside and beautiful views from the top.
Shukkeien Garden – A traditional Japanese garden with a central pond, scenic bridges, and teahouses.
Mitaki-dera Temple – A serene mountainside temple surrounded by forest and waterfalls, especially beautiful in autumn.

Local Food & Regional Specialties

Okonomimura – A building with several floors of okonomiyaki restaurants, each serving a slightly different take on Hiroshima’s famous layered version.
Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki – A must-try local dish made with thin crepes, yakisoba noodles, cabbage, egg, and various toppings.
Oysters (Kaki) – Hiroshima is Japan’s top oyster-producing region, and the local oysters are known for being large and flavorful.

Nearby Gems & Islands

Miyajima Island (Itsukushima) – Famous for its floating torii gate, wild deer, Mount Misen hikes, and the stunning Itsukushima Shrine.
Mount Misen – A scenic hike or ropeway ride on Miyajima Island with panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea.
Sandankyo Gorge – A hidden gem about 90 minutes from the city, known for pristine nature, waterfalls, and boat rides.

Shopping & Entertainment

Hondori Shopping Street – A long covered arcade with shops, cafes, and restaurants — great for souvenirs or a rainy day.
Okonomiyaki Village – A smaller area near the main station where you can try even more variations of Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki.

Iconic Photo Spots

Floating Torii Gate at High or Low Tide – Check tide times in advance to get that classic photo, or walk out during low tide for a close-up.
Atomic Bomb Dome at Sunset or Night – The structure is hauntingly beautiful when lit after dark.
Shukkeien Garden Bridges – Especially photogenic in spring and fall.

Where to Stay in Hiroshima

The best area to stay in Hiroshima is near the Hiroshima Station. You’ll have easy access to the Shinkansen, local streetcars, and ferries to Mijajima.

Popular Day Trips from Hiroshima

Miyajima Island – Just a short ferry ride away, home to the iconic floating Torii gate and Itsukushima Shrine.
Iwakuni – Visit Kintai Bridge, one of Japan’s most beautiful wooden bridges, and Iwakuni Castle.
Okayama – Known for Korakuen (one of Japan’s top 3 gardens) and Okayama Castle.

Sapporo

Snow festival, beer, winter sports, and access to Hokkaido’s nature.

Seasonal Events

Sapporo Snow Festival (February) – The city’s most famous event, with massive snow and ice sculptures, food stalls, and winter illuminations spread across downtown parks.
Autumn Foliage in Maruyama Park – One of the best places to enjoy fall colors without leaving the city.

City Highlights

Odori Park – A long, central green space that stretches across the city with fountains, sculptures, and seasonal events.
Sapporo TV Tower – Offers panoramic views of the city and Odori Park. Especially scenic during the Snow Festival.
Susukino District – Sapporo’s nightlife hub filled with ramen shops, bars, karaoke, and entertainment venues.
Tanukikoji Shopping Street – A covered arcade with souvenirs, fashion, snacks, and local shops.

Winter Fun

Sapporo Teine Ski Resort – One of the most accessible ski spots from downtown Sapporo, great for both beginners and experienced skiers.
Mount Moiwa Ropeway – Ride the cable car for panoramic views of the city, especially magical at night.

Food & Drink

Sapporo Ramen – Specifically miso ramen, often topped with butter and corn — a must-try local specialty.
Soup Curry – A spicy, flavorful Hokkaido original dish with vegetables and meats in a thin, rich curry broth.
Sapporo Beer Museum – Learn the history of one of Japan’s most famous beers, with tasting flights and a beer hall-style restaurant.
Nijo Market – A small local seafood market where you can try fresh crab, sea urchin, salmon roe, and more.

Nature & Culture

Hokkaido Shrine – A peaceful shrine in Maruyama Park, especially beautiful during the cherry blossom season in late April/early May.
Moerenuma Park – A massive urban park designed by artist Isamu Noguchi, with geometric landscapes and public art installations.
Historical Village of Hokkaido – An open-air museum showcasing life in Hokkaido during the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Where to Stay in Sapporo

The best area to stay in Sapporo is the Odori Park area. It’s slightly less convenient for train transfers than staying near a station, but it’s worth it for great shopping, restaurants, cafes, and nightlife. It’s also more compact and walkable than other areas of Sapporo, and it’s close to the popular Snow Festival Event.

Popular Day Trips from Sapporo

Otaru – A charming port town with a scenic canal, glass workshops, and fresh seafood.
Noboribetsu – Known for its dramatic volcanic landscapes and steaming hot springs in “Hell Valley.”
Jozankei Onsen – A peaceful hot spring resort town in the mountains, perfect for a relaxing soak.

Buddha Statues Decorated with Red Caps Nikko Japan

Lesser-Known Cities in Japan Worth Visiting

These places aren’t always on the first-timer radar, but they offer amazing experiences and easily pair with many popular itineraries.

Kanazawa – One of the best cultural cities outside Kyoto.
Takayama – Beautiful architecture, and often paired with Shirakawa-go.
Hakone – An alternative to Fujikawaguchiko.
Nikko – Common day trip; visually stunning shrines.
Kamakura – Easy Tokyo day trip with clear appeal.
Shirakawa-go – A favorite for photographers and winter visits.
Naoshima – Unique niche appeal for art lovers.
Kurashiki – Lovely, especially when grouped with Okayama.
Yufuin – Quirky onsen town with broad appeal.
Shirahama – White sand beach, ocean-view onsens, tropical vibes.
Kinosaki Onsen – Very atmospheric and perfect for travelers wanting that ryokan + yukata vibe.

Are Beaches in Japan Worth Visiting?

You may be surprised to find a lack of beach towns on our recommended list of where to go in Japan! This is because while Japan does have stunning beaches, they’re often tucked away into quieter towns with little else to do. You won’t find the cultural richness of Kyoto or the buzz of Tokyo here, and many beach towns shut down completely in the off-season.

That said, if you’re a beach fanatic or a repeat visitor looking to slow things down, there are some gems worth adding to your itinerary — if the timing is right (Late June to early September).

Best Beaches in Japan (And How to Get to Them)

Shirahama
• Best for: White sand, tropical vibes, hot springs nearby
• Good for: An overnight stay from Kyoto or Osaka (about 2.5–3.5 hours by train)
• Closest station: Shirahama Station + short bus or taxi
• Why go: It’s one of the most accessible “beach resort” towns in mainland Japan

Kamakura + Enoshima
• Best for: Quick beach escape from Tokyo
• Good for: A day trip from Tokyo (about 1–1.5 hours by train)
• Closest station: Kamakura Station or Enoshima Station
• Why go: Surf-town energy, temples nearby, and lots of locals in summer

Okinawa Main Island
• Best for: Clear blue water, snorkeling, laid-back island life
• Good for: A dedicated beach trip — you’ll need to fly
• Closest airport: Naha Airport
• Why go: Feels more like Southeast Asia than mainland Japan; best beaches in the country

Ishigaki & Miyako Islands
• Best for: Tropical beaches and diving
• Good for: Honeymoons or beach-only Japan trips
• Closest airport: Ishigaki Airport or Miyako Airport (requires flights)
• Why go: Absolutely stunning, but remote and pricey to reach

Amami Oshima
• Best for: Unspoiled nature and fewer crowds
• Good for: Off-the-beaten-path travelers willing to fly
• Closest airport: Amami Airport
• Why go: Beautiful beaches and a unique island culture with low tourism

Common Japan Itineraries

Here’s a list of the most common itinerary combinations! These work well for first-time visitors or those returning and wanting to explore deeper:

Classic First-Time Trips (7–10 Days)

Tokyo + Kyoto + Osaka (with day trips to Nara & Arashiyama)
Great balance of modern, traditional, and food-focused cities.
Tokyo + Fujikawaguchiko + Nagano Snow Monkeys + Kyoto (with day trip to Nara)
Best for epic Mt. Fuji views, scenery, and monkeys in hot springs.
[Check out our Two Week Japan Itinerary for this exact combo!]
Tokyo + Fujikawaguchiko + Kyoto + Osaka
Ideal if you want epic Mt. Fuji views and great food/street vibes.
Tokyo + Kyoto + Hiroshima + Miyajima
For travelers interested in history and nature with coastal charm.
Tokyo + Hakone + Kyoto
Good mix of big city, hot springs, and Mt. Fuji views, plus cultural heritage.

Tips for Choosing Hotels in Japan

One of the most helpful things to know before visiting Japan is what to look for (and what to avoid) when booking a hotel!

Hotels in Japan can be small – Always check the square footage of the room before booking. We typically look for at least 200 sq ft for two people.
But they’re loaded with amenities – Most hotels in Japan, even many budget accommodations, provide tons of amenities, including shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothbrushes, razors, combs, and so much more. It will make you wish hotels back home did the same!
Stay near a major train station – Especially if you’re hauling luggage. This makes day trips, check-in/out, and moving between cities way easier.
Don’t expect daily housekeeping – Many hotels in Japan don’t automatically clean your room unless you request it.
Check-in time is strict (and late) – Plan your arrival accordingly or look for hotels that offer luggage storage. Some properties also have later check-in times than you might be used to — sometimes as late as 5 PM.
Ryokan = Traditional (and not for everyone) – Tatami mats, futon bedding, and shared bathrooms offer a unique cultural experience, but they’re not ideal for every night of your trip. If you’re curious to try a traditional ryokan, one night is usually the perfect amount.
Be mindful of smoking rooms – Smoking rooms still exist in many hotels (crazy, we know), so always double-check that you’ve booked a non-smoking room.
Capsule hotels are fun but not practical for long stays – They’re more of a novelty for solo travelers or a quick overnight near a train station or airport.

How to Get Around Japan

Part of figuring out where to go in Japan is understanding how to get around. Luckily, Japan has one of the most efficient and tourist-friendly transportation systems in the world. For most travelers, trains will be your best friend. The country is connected by an extensive rail network, with high-speed bullet trains (called shinkansen) linking major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, and more. And local trains, subways, and buses make it easy to get around within each city.

Most tourists get around using a mix of:

JR trains for long-distance travel (covered by the Japan Rail Pass if you get one)
Subways and local trains for city transport
Walking (you’ll do a lot of it!)
Occasional buses in areas without good train access
Taxis when you’re tired and need a break from the trains
Car rentals for those exploring more rural areas (not recommended in large cities)

A typical day might look like taking the train (major line) from your hotel to a major shrine or temple, hopping on the subway (metro line) to explore a different part of the city, and walking between neighborhoods while grabbing street food or sightseeing.

Final Thoughts: Where to Go in Japan

Figuring out where to go in Japan can feel overwhelming, but don’t panic, that’s totally normal. With so many incredible cities, hidden gems, and cultural experiences to choose from, there’s no one “right” way to plan your trip.

Hopefully, this guide gave you a solid overview of the best cities to visit in Japan, plus a few lesser-known spots worth considering. Whether you’re drawn to the energy of Tokyo, the tradition of Kyoto, the food in Osaka, the snow monkeys in Nagano, or the mountain views near Mt. Fuji, you really can’t go wrong.

Start by making a list of the things that excite you most, note which cities they’re in, and plot them out on a map. Then figure out the best route between them (chances are, there’s a train). Don’t forget to choose a logical starting and ending point — like Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka. Before you know it, your trip will start taking shape right before your eyes.

Thank you for reading our post! We hope it helps you plan the perfect trip! Check out our other guides here and follow us on Instagram (@AntisocialTourist) or on Facebook to see our latest adventures!