Japan and its attractions are full of vibrant life. Here, modernity meets tradition, and landscapes impress with their diversity.
For those planning a journey to this fascinating country, here are top 10 Japan attractions, as well as 5 interesting, lesser-known places off the main tourist trail that are well worth including in your itinerary.
Top 10 Japan Attractions – What to see in Japan?
1. The World’s Busiest Crossing – Shibuya in Tokyo
The Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo is one of Japan top 10 attractions – known all around the world. Famous for its immense pedestrian traffic, it has become a symbol of a city that never sleeps.
Crossing the intersection, surrounded by neon signs and modern buildings, is a unique experience!
2. The Most Beautiful Temple – the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji) in Kyoto
Kinkaku-ji, known as the Golden Pavilion, is one of the most beautiful temples among Japan attractions. Situated beside a picturesque pond, this landmark is covered in gold leaf and represents a perfect example of classical Japanese architecture.
Reflected in the water, the pavilion creates a view that stays in your memory for a long time.
3. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park – Japan’s Most Important Museum
This is one of the must-see attractions in Japan. Your trip would be incomplete without visiting Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park — a place of immense historical and symbolic significance. It commemorates the victims of the atomic bomb dropped on the city in 1945.
Be sure to see the Atomic Bomb Dome and the Peace Memorial Museum, which serve as powerful reminders of the tragic consequences of war and the need to strive for peace.
4. Ancient Temples of Nikko – UNESCO-Listed Attractions in Japan
The temple complex in Nikko, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is also among the best tourist attractions in Japan – a true gem of religious architecture. The Toshogu Shrine, dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate, is the most famous site in Nikko.
The temples impress with their rich ornamentation and the wild natural surroundings that frame them.
5. Osaka Castle
If you’ve watched the series Shōgun (both the old and the new versions), you absolutely have to visit Osaka Castle, where real historical events took place that later inspired the book.
Osaka Castle is one of the best attractions in Japan and played a crucial role in the country’s history. Its impressive structure, surrounded by moats and vast gardens, symbolises power and prestige. The castle is also a wonderful place to admire cherry blossoms during the sakura season.
6. The Largest Bronze Buddha (Daibutsu, Nara)
The Great Buddha in Tōdai-ji Temple in Nara is one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in the world and among top 10 Japan attractions. Tōdai-ji, one of the most important Buddhist temples, attracts visitors from all over the globe.
Still wondering what to see in Japan? It’s also worth visiting Nara Park, where domesticated deers roam freely. They are considered messengers of the gods.
7. The Sacred Mount Fuji (Fuji-san)
Mount Fuji, standing at 3,776 metres, is the most recognisable symbol of Japan. Sacred to the Japanese, it attracts both pilgrims and tourists from around the world.
Climbing to the summit of Fuji is a challenge rewarded with spectacular views, especially at sunrise. The mountain is also a popular motif in Japanese art and literature.
8. The Water-Immersed Torii Gate in Front of Miyajima Island
Miyajima Island is one of Japan’s sacred islands, and a trip to Japan would feel incomplete without visiting it.
Just off the island stands a 16-metre-high torii gate — traditionally, this is the gate through which visitors should arrive by boat to the Itsukushima Shrine, symbolically beginning their journey on the island.
The gate stands about 200 metres from the shore, and its current form dates back to 1875 (the first torii here appeared as early as the 12th century).
The vermilion torii is the most frequently photographed torii gate in Japan and forms the main element of one of the country’s three most beautiful scenic views. Behind it lies the unique Itsukushima-jinja shrine complex, built on stilts due to powerful tides.
9. The Great Shrine Complex of Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto – Thousands of Torii Gates
What to see in Japan? You can’t miss Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto. It is famous for its thousands of red torii gates forming paths that lead up Mount Inari.
The shrine is dedicated to Inari, the deity of rice and prosperity. Walking along the winding paths beneath the torii gates is both a spiritual and aesthetic experience.
10. Japan’s Most Beautiful Castle – Himeji Castle (The White Heron Castle)
Himeji Castle, also known as the White Heron Castle, closes our list of Japan top 10 attractions. It is one of the most beautiful and best-preserved castles in the country. Its white, elegant walls resemble the outstretched wings of a bird.
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Himeji Castle is an outstanding example of defensive architecture that has survived in an almost unchanged form since the 17th century.
What To See In Japan Off The Beaten Path? 5 Lesser-Known Attractions
1. The Nakasendō Trail and Magome
What to see in Japan if you’d like to get off the beaten path? Magome is a charming settlement on the historic Nakasendō Trail, which once connected Kyoto with Edo (modern-day Tokyo). The trail, approximately 500 km long, was one of the five main routes in Japan during the Edo period.
If you’re looking for interesting historical sites in Japan, visit Megumi, where traditional buildings have been preserved — it offers visitors a unique journey back in time. Walking through the town, you can feel the spirit of old Japan while admiring traditional inns (ryokan) and craft shops.
2. The Interactive Ramen Museum in Yokohama
The Yokohama Ramen Museum is a must-see attraction in Japan for anyone who loves local cuisine. The museum presents the history and diversity of this iconic dish, and visitors can sample different styles of ramen from various regions of Japan.
This interactive place also offers the opportunity to prepare your own ramen, making it a truly unique culinary experience.
3. Saiko Iyashi no-Sato Nemba Open-Air Museum near Lake Kawaguchi
Saiko Iyashi no-Sato Nemba is an open-air museum located in the former village of Nemba, near Lake Kawaguchi, at the foot of Mount Fuji.
The site is dedicated to traditional Japanese crafts, especially the art of silk dyeing. In addition to exhibitions, the museum offers workshops where visitors can learn dyeing techniques and create their own pieces.
4. A Whisky Distillery in Osaka
The Osaka whisky distillery, part of the Suntory group, is one of the most famous whisky production sites in Japan.
Visitors can learn about the entire production process — from fermentation and distillation to ageing. A tasting of local whiskies at the end of the tour is an unforgettable experience for any connoisseur.
Check ticket prices and details here.
5. Hamarikyu Garden in Tokyo
Near the Imperial Palace and the Ginza district, you’ll find Hamarikyu – a beautiful garden located in the heart of Tokyo, which once served as a residence for shoguns.
Surrounded by a moat, with picturesque ponds and traditional teahouses, Hamarikyu offers a calm spot in the bustling city. It’s the perfect place for a relaxing walk and for enjoying Japanese tea in a traditional setting.
I wish you a wonderful time discovering top 10 Japan attractions as well as the hidden gems!
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