Places to Visit in Japan

Kyoto has great historical significance in the history of Japan as it served as the emperor's residence and national capital from 794 to 1868 when both moved to the city of Edo, i.e., present-day Tokyo. The city has since become the seventh largest country in Japan and evolved into a modern metro city. Kyoto has witnessed many wars, fires and raids over many centuries. But thanks to its historical significance and cultural value, it was removed as a target during the atomic bombing during World War II. Thanks to that numerous temples, shrines, and monuments have survived till date and stand testimony to the cities and countries rich and vast historical past.

Attractions: Golden Pavillion, Ryoanji Temple, Kyoto Imperial Palace, Nijo Castle. 

Activities: Hiking, Bicycle Rides, Tempe Visits, Shopping etc. 

Food: Kiyamachi Sakuragawa, Kitcho, Nakaichi, Ippudo

Shopping: Kyoto Station area, Downtown Kyoto, Nishiki Market, Kobo-san Flea Market, Tenjin-san Flea Market.

This festival takes place in Aomori City in August from 2nd to 7th August. Nebuta aka lantern floats that are a depiction of human figurines and are accompanied by waves of chanting dancers. The parade starts at sundown and goes on for hours.

Name of the event: Nebuta Matsuri

Why you should attend: The floats genuinely magnificent and the accompanying dancers are a delight to watch.

Who Should attend this: This is a family event.

This festival started with a humble display of 6 snow sculptures prepared by high school students in 1950 and has since evolved into a truly international event. The event takes place from 6th to 12th in February.

Name of the event: Yuki Matsuri, Snow Festival

Why you should attend: The festivals showcase some fantastic and international snow sculptures.

Who should attend this: This is a family event.

This is Japans largest dance festival and men, women and children alike all come out on the streets of Tokushima City to perform beautifully choreographed dances in bright colored outfits. This is a mid-august festival held from12th to 15th August and is also a national holiday in Japan. The Outfits are cotton Kimono's and are paired with straw hats. The celebration is attended by more than a million people from all over the world.  

Name of the event: Awa Odori

Why you should attend: This is Japans largest dance festival and men, women and children alike all come out on the streets of Tokushima City to perform beautifully choreographed dances in bright colored outfits

Who should attend this: This is a family event.

It is one the most famous festivals in Japan and is held annually in Tokyo. This is a religious event and lasts for one month. It starts in 1st July and commences on 31sr July. On 17th and 24th, July giant procession of beautifully decorated floats aka "Yamaboko Junko" are paraded on the streets if Kyoto’s Gion District. 

Name of the event: Gion Matsuri

Why you should attend this: To see the grand procession of beautifully decorated floats aka "Yamaboko Junko." 

Who should attend this: This is a family event.

The peace memorial is a haunting reminder of the ill-fated past of the city of Hiroshima. Since the end of the world war, tremendous effort has been invested in rebuilding this great city. The resilience if the city and its citizen is remarkable. Many monuments that were destroyed such as the Shukkeien Garde and Hiroshima caste have since been reconstructed. The Peace Memorial Park has commemorated the ill fates incidence and the lost lives.

Location: Japan, 730-0811 Hiroshima Prefecture, Hiroshima, Naka Ward, Nakajimacho, 1

Known for: It's a famous war memorial built in remembrance of the countless lives lost in the ill-fated atomic bombings during the world war.  

How to reach: You can take the tram from Hiroshima Station to Ganbaku Domu Stop. From there you can visit all sites on foot.

Approximate Cost:  Entry Fees is approx. INR 25 per person and entry is limited to 30 minutes only.

Operating hours: 8:30 am to 6 pm. 

Any precautions/ must carry items etc.: Camera, water bottle, and weather appropriate clothing

Type: Monument.

This is a famous hot spring located neat Nagano. As the name suggests its renowned not just for the bubbling hot water but the many snow monkeys that flock here during winters.

Location: Japan, 381-0401 Nagano Prefecture, Shimotakai District, Yamanouchi, Hirao, 

Known for: As the name suggests, it is famous not just for the bubbling hot water but the many snow monkeys that flock here during winters.  

How to reach: From Tokyo, you can take the train to Hokuriku Shinkansen station, and from these, it's a 30-minute walk to the park. It cost approx. INR 130 per person one way.

Cost: One-day access park cost approx. INR 1600 per person

Operating hours: 9 am to 6 pm  

Any precautions/ must carry items etc.:  Camera, water bottle, and appropriate weather clothing

Type: Tourist Attraction.

Japanese are famous for their castle architecture, and this castle is a testimony to Japan's rich and vast architectural past. The castle has been rebuilt several times over the many centuries and is reflective of the changing architecture. The castle survived the World War II and is regularly features in films most famous of which was the James Bond Movie "You Only Live Twice."

Location: 68 Honmachi, Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture 670-0012, Japan

Known for: The castle has been rebuilt several times over the many centuries and is reflective of the changing architecture.

How to reach: The nearest train station is JR Himeji Station. Take the train from Osaka or Kobe. The journey takes about 20 min and costs approx. INR 130 per person and then you can walk to the castle.

Approximate Cost: Entry fees are approx. INR 500 per person.  

Operating hours: 9 am to 5 pm.  

Any precautions/ must carry items etc.: Camera, water bottle, and appropriate weather clothing

Type: Monument.

This is a Buddhist Temple in Eastern Kyoto and dates back to 798. The temple has an indoor waterfall. In the past locals used to jump off the edge of the temples to have wishes granted (survival rate 85.4%), tourists can enjoy the shrines, artwork, talismans, etc. without risk if life.

Location: 294 Kiyomizu 1-chome, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture 605-0862, Japan

Known for: This is a Buddhist Temple in Eastern Kyoto and dates back to 798. The temple has an indoor waterfall.

How to reach: The temple is a walking distance from Higashiyama-Gojo bus stop.

Approximate Cost: Entry fees are approx. INR 300 per person.  

Operating hours: 6 am to 6 pm 

Any precautions/ must carry items etc.: Camera, water bottle, and appropriate weather clothing.

Type: Temple.

Tokyo is the capital of Japan and among the most populated cities in the world. Although Tokyo wasn't always referred to as Tokyo, before 1868, the city was referred to as Edo. During the 16 the century this was a small castle town which quickly became prominent as Japans political center in 1603 under the leadership of Tokugawa Leyasu. Within a few decades Edo becomes one the most populated cities in the world. It was not until two centuries later in 1868, i.e., after the Meiji Restoration when that the city was remanded Tokyo and replaced the Kyoto as the countries capital city.

But Tokyo's history is also laced with many natural and human disasters, most notable of which is the Great Kanko Earthquake which occurred in 1923 and the air raids in the year 1954, i.e., during the second world war. But Tokyo has come a long way since then and is now among the most famous metropolis if the world. Tokyo offers tourists an unlimited array of choices when it comes to dining, culture, entertainment and most of all shopping. There are also some museums, gardens, and temples that you can visit. Contrary to conventional perspective, Tokyo has numerous green spaces such as parks that you can visit and spend an entirely peaceful day away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Attractions: Tokyo Tower, Imperial Palace, Meiji Shrine, Yoyogi Park, Cat Café, Nekorobi

Activities: Attend the Cherry Blossom Festival, Go shopping in one of the many shopping districts and visit a bar in Tokyo’s Golden Dai District.

Food: Ramen Jiro, Nakaya, Tenmatsu, Yoshihashi Sukiyaki

Shopping: Ginza District, Shinjuku District etc.

This is the second largest metro city in Japan. It is also the economic center of the Kansai region. Just like Tokyo, Osaka was formerly known as Naniwa. In fact, before the Nara Period, Osaka is known to be the first Japanese capital city as there was a tradition of moving capitals under every new emperor. Today Osaka is busy modern city and an economic powerhouse in Japan.

Attractions: Osaka Castle, Dotonbori, Sumiyoshi Taisha, Shinsaibashi, Shitennoji Temple, Universal Studio, Umeda Sky Building. 

Activities: Finding Nemo at the Kaiyukan, Eat a fried Maple leaf by the waterfall, Drin craft beer in Osaka’s Kabuki Theatre.

Food: Okonomiyaki Chitose, Kiji Umeda Sky Bldg., Matsusakagyu Yakiniku M, Hozenji Yokocho, Ajinoya

Shopping: Tempozan Market Place, Shinsaibashisuji Shopping Street, OSAKA STATION CITY, OSAKA STATION CITY.

Nara was established as the first permanent capital in Japan in 710. But with the growing threat of the influential Buddhist monasteries in the area, the capital was shifted to Nagaoka in 784. The city is located close to Tokyo and Osaka and due to its rich political past remains a historical treasure and is also home to some of the oldest and largest Japanese temples.

Attractions: Todai-ji Temple, Nara Park, Nara Visitor Center & Inn, Kasuga Grand Shrine, Toshodaiji Temple, Nigatsu-do Temple, Isuien Garden

Activities: Sightseeing, Afternoon Tours, Sunrise Tours to Mount Fuji

Food: LBK Craft, Kameya, Edogawa Grilled Eel, Kura

Shopping: Higashimuki Shopping Arcade, Machiidono Shopping Arcade, Sanjo Dori Avenue.

This is Japans highest mountain peak and has a dormant volcano sitting perfectly on top of it. The mountain is considered sacred and has been worshipped b locals for many centuries now. It has also been an inspiration for many artists from around the world that have either photographed this magnificent mountain peak or captured it beautifully on their canvas. Mount Fiji last erupted in 1707 and is still considered to be active. You can take a train from Tokyo to Osaka to visit the magnificent beast. The valley around the peak is home to some of the best tea produces in Japan, and you can visit these plantations and get your hands on some of the famous Japanese green tea and maccha tea.

Attractions: Fuji Five Lakes, Mount Fuji, Hot Springs, museum’s, attraction parks. 

Activities: Hiking, Trekking, hot pools. 

Food: Tetsuyaki, Alladin Indo Restaurant, Fujiyama cookie, High Spirits, Sanrokuen, Sanrokuen

Shopping: Gotemba Premium Ourlets.

We all know the sad history of Hiroshima as the very first atomic bomb in the history of humankind was dropped here during the last world war. Since the end of the world war, tremendous effort has been invested in rebuilding this great city. The resilience if the city and its citizen is genuinely remarkable. Many monuments that were destroyed such as the Shukkeien Garde and Hiroshima caste have since been reconstructed. The Peace Memorial Park has commemorated the ill fates incidence and the lost lives.

Attractions: Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, Atomic Bomb Dome, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, Children's Peace Monument, Hiroshima National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims, Shukkei-en Garden, The Cenotaph

Activities: Sightseeing

Food: Hassei, Sushi Tei Kamiyacho, KeMBY's, Tempura tenko, Cafe Ponte

Shopping: Marina Hop, You Me Town Hiroshima, Fuji Grand Hiroshima, Kamiyacho Shareo

Golden Pavilion also is known as the Kinkaku-Ji temple is the number tourist attraction in Japan. The temple is located in Kyoto and was built in the 14th century as a retirement villa for Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. The temple was rebuilt in 1955 after it was burnt down by an obsessed monk in 1950. The pavilion is gold plated and has been constructed in harmony with the surrounding gardens.

Location: 1 Kinkakujicho, Kita, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture 603-8361, Japan

Known for: It’s the most famous tourist destination Japan. 

How to reach: You can take bus no # or # 205 from Kyoto Station, and the journey takes about 40 minutes and costs approx. INR 115 per person.

You can also take the train to Kitaoji Station on the Karasuma line; the journey takes 13 minutes and costs approx. INR 130 per person. You can then hop bus no's #101, #102, #204, #205 to the pavilion. The journey takes 10 minutes and costs approx. INR 115 per Person.

You can also take a taxi from Kitaoji station, the journey takes about 10 minutes and costs approx. INR 600 per person.

Approximate Cost: Approx. INR 200 per person

Operating hours: 9 am to 5 pm daily.  

Any precautions/ must carry items etc.: Camera, water bottle, and appropriate weather clothing

Type: Temple.

As the name suggests, the Imperial Palace is the residence of the Japanese Emperor. In addition to this, it is open to the general public as a Museum and administrative center. The old castle once stood on the very grounds of the where the palace was constructed. The forts were destroyed in wars and fires, and the palace architecture was designed to honor the castle designs and construction. Traditional Japanese gardens surround the palace grounds. 

Location: Japan, 100-8111 Tokyo, Chiyoda, 1−1

Known for: As the name suggests the Imperial Palace is the residence of the Japanese Emperor. In addition to this, it is open to the general public as a Museum and administrative center. 

How to reach: The Palace is a walking distance from both Otemachi train station and Tokyo train station. 

Cost: Entry Free

Operating hours: 9 am to 4:30 pm

Any precautions/ must carry items etc.: Camera, water bottle, and appropriate weather clothing

Type: Monument.

The Tokyo Tower is just one example of Japans technological advancement as well as modernity. The tower was inspired by the famous Eiffel Tower in Paris, France and is ranks as the second tallest structure in Japan. It functions as an observation and communication tower. If you want to see and capture fantastic Ariel views of Tokyo, you must visit the tower. There are also some great restaurants and shops in the areas.

Location: 4 Chome-2-8 Shibakoen, Minato, Tokyo 105-0011, Japan

Known for: The Tokyo tower is just one example of Japans technological advancement as well as modernity. The tower was inspired by the famous Eiffel Tower in Paris, France and is ranks as the second tallest structure in Japan. 

How to reach: The closest train Station is Tokyo Tower, and it's a 10-minute walk from there.

Cost: approx. price between INR 450 – INR 800 per person 

Operating hours: 9 am to 11 pm

Any precautions/ must carry items etc.: Camera, water bottle, and appropriate weather clothing

Type: Landmark.

The temple is located in Nara and is an engineering marvel. It is the largest wooden building in the world and houses the largest bronze Buddha is the world. It is surrounded by beautiful flora and fauna and is home to the Kegon School of Buddhism. Since deer’s are considered messenger of Shinto Gods, there are allowed to roam freely on the temple grounds.  

Location: 406-1 Zoshicho, Nara, Nara Prefecture 630-8211, Japan

Known for: The temple is located in Nara and is an engineering marvel. It is the largest wooden building in the world and houses the largest bronze Buddha is the world

How to reach: The temple is at a 30-minute walking distance from Kintetsu Nara Station. Likewise, you can also take a bus from the station. Approx. Cost of the bus is INR 130 per person.

Approximate Cost: Entry fees are approx. INR 250 Per Person. 

Operating hours: 8 am to 5 pm timings may vary from season to season.  

Any precautions/ must carry items etc.: Camera, water bottle, and appropriate weather clothing 

Type: Temple.

The statue of Buddha represents the Amida Buddha, who is among the most celebrated Buddhist figures in Japan. It's a bronze statue and is around 13 meters tall, i.e., 40 feet high. The statue dated back to 1252 and was initially placed inside a wooden temple. But the temple was destroying away in the 15th century by a tsunami. Hence, the temple now stands on open grounds. 

Location: 4 Chome-2-28 Hase, Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture 248-0016, Japan

Known for: The statue of Buddha represents the Amida Buddha, who is among the most celebrated Buddhist figures in Japan. It is a bronze statue and is around 13 meters tall i.e. 40 feet high.

How to reach: The statue is located at a 10-minute walking distance from Hase Station.

Approximate Cost: approx. INR 200 per person

Operating hours: 8 am to 5:30 pm

Any precautions/ must carry items etc.: Camera, water bottle, and weather appropriate clothing

Type: Temple.