Overview
Japan welcomed a record 36.9 million visitors in 2024, surpassing the previous record by 16%. Whether you’re planning your first trip or your fifth, this guide highlights the must-visit destinations in each region based on JNTO statistics, Lonely Planet recommendations, and traveler reviews.
Top experiences to book across Japan
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Kanto Region
Tokyo and surrounding areas — Japan’s most visited region with 70% of all foreign visitors
🥇 Tokyo
Japan’s capital needs no introduction. From the neon-lit streets of Shibuya to the serene gardens of the Imperial Palace, Tokyo offers an unmatched mix of tradition and cutting-edge modernity. Key areas: Shinjuku, Asakusa, Shibuya, Harajuku, Akihabara, Ueno.
🥈 Hakone
The perfect day trip or overnight escape from Tokyo. Famous for hot springs, views of Mt. Fuji, the Open Air Museum, and scenic boat cruises on Lake Ashi. Just 90 minutes from Shinjuku by Romancecar.
🥉 Kamakura
The “Kyoto of Eastern Japan” with its Great Buddha, ancient temples, and laid-back beach town vibes. An easy day trip from Tokyo (1 hour by train).
Honorable Mentions
- Nikko — UNESCO World Heritage shrines in a mountain forest setting
- Yokohama — Japan’s second-largest city with Chinatown and waterfront views
- Mt. Fuji area — Iconic views from Kawaguchiko and Hakone
Kansai Region
Osaka, Kyoto, Nara — Japan’s cultural heartland
🥇 Kyoto
The ancient capital with 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, thousands of temples, and the iconic geisha districts. Every first-time visitor should spend at least 2-3 days here. Must-see: Fushimi Inari, Kinkaku-ji, Arashiyama bamboo grove, Gion.
🥈 Osaka
Lonely Planet’s “Best in Travel 2025” city pick. Japan’s kitchen, famous for street food (takoyaki, okonomiyaki), vibrant nightlife in Dotonbori, and a famously friendly local culture. Perfect base for exploring Kansai.
🥉 Nara
Home to Japan’s largest bronze Buddha and over 1,000 sacred deer roaming freely in the park. An easy day trip from Osaka or Kyoto (45 minutes by train).
Honorable Mentions
- Kobe — Famous beef, sake breweries in Nada, and harbor views
- Himeji — Japan’s most spectacular original castle
- Uji — Matcha tea culture and beautiful Byodo-in Temple
Chubu Region
Central Japan — Alps, traditional towns, and the Noto Peninsula
🥇 Kanazawa
Often called “Little Kyoto,” Kanazawa offers geisha districts, samurai residences, and Kenroku-en (one of Japan’s three great gardens) without the crowds. Fresh sushi from the Sea of Japan rivals Tokyo’s best.
🥈 Takayama
A beautifully preserved Edo-period town in the Japanese Alps. Famous for morning markets, sake breweries, and Hida beef. Gateway to the UNESCO-listed Shirakawa-go thatched-roof villages.
🥉 Matsumoto
Home to Japan’s oldest original castle (Matsumoto Castle) with stunning mountain backdrops. Gateway to Kamikochi alpine valley.
Honorable Mentions
- Nagoya — Castle, Toyota museum, gateway to the region
- Shirakawa-go — UNESCO thatched-roof farmhouses
- Toyama — NY Times “52 Places to Go 2025” pick
Hokkaido
Japan’s northern frontier — nature, seafood, and powder snow
🥇 Sapporo
Hokkaido’s capital, famous for the Snow Festival (February), miso ramen, fresh seafood, and craft beer. Base for exploring the island.
🥈 Niseko
World-class powder snow makes this Asia’s premier ski destination. International vibe with excellent après-ski dining.
🥉 Hakodate
Historic port city with stunning night views from Mt. Hakodate, morning fish markets, and charming Western-style buildings.
Honorable Mentions
- Furano & Biei — Lavender fields (July) and rolling hills
- Noboribetsu — Dramatic “Hell Valley” hot springs
- Otaru — Romantic canal town, glasswork, and sushi
Tohoku Region
Northern Honshu — Hidden gems, festivals, and natural beauty
🥇 Sendai
The largest city in Tohoku, gateway to Matsushima Bay (one of Japan’s three most scenic views). Famous for gyutan (beef tongue) cuisine.
🥈 Yamagata
Rising star destination with Zao’s “snow monsters,” Ginzan Onsen (Spirited Away-like hot spring town), and stunning autumn foliage.
🥉 Aomori
Home to the spectacular Nebuta Festival (August) and gateway to the scenic Shirakami-Sanchi mountains.
Chugoku & Shikoku
Western Honshu and the island across the Seto Inland Sea
🥇 Hiroshima
The Peace Memorial and Museum offer a profound experience. Combine with nearby Miyajima Island (floating torii gate) for a perfect day.
🥈 Naoshima
The famous “art island” in the Seto Inland Sea. Yayoi Kusama’s pumpkins, Tadao Ando museums, and the 2025 Setouchi Triennale make this a must for art lovers.
🥉 Matsuyama
Shikoku’s largest city, home to Dogo Onsen (Japan’s oldest hot spring, inspiration for Spirited Away) and an original hilltop castle.
Kyushu
Southern island — hot springs, history, and active volcanoes
🥇 Fukuoka
Kyushu’s largest city and birthplace of Hakata tonkotsu ramen. Yatai street food stalls, excellent airport access, and gateway to the region.
🥈 Beppu
Japan’s hot spring capital with more hot spring water than anywhere else in the country. The “Hells” tour showcases colorful boiling pools.
🥉 Nagasaki
Historic port city with unique blend of Japanese, Chinese, and European influences. Peace Park, Glover Garden, and charming streetcar network.
Honorable Mentions
- Kagoshima — Active volcano Sakurajima, samurai history
- Yufuin — Elegant hot spring town popular with women travelers
- Kumamoto — Restored castle and gateway to Mt. Aso
Okinawa
Subtropical islands — beaches, unique culture, and relaxation
🥇 Naha
Okinawa’s capital with the rebuilt Shuri Castle, bustling Kokusai-dori street, and gateway to the islands. Unique Ryukyu culture distinct from mainland Japan.
🥈 Kerama Islands
Crystal-clear waters just 30-50 minutes from Naha. Some of Japan’s best beaches and snorkeling. Zamami and Tokashiki are the main islands.
🥉 Ishigaki & Yaeyama Islands
Tropical paradise 400km south of the main island. Pristine beaches, diving, and the laid-back island life. Includes Taketomi Island with its traditional village.
More city guides
Explore more of Japan: Fukuoka · Nagoya · Kobe · Kumamoto · Nagano & Matsumoto · Takayama · Beppu & Yufuin · Yokohama · Chiba