Top 10 Destinations in Japan

Japan is a country that has it all and more… sacred Shinto shrines, magnificent Buddhist temples, bygone trade footpaths, spectacular landscaped gardens, eclectic themed pet cafes, diverse art styles, preserved cultural icons, and gastronomical delights. Japan is truly a country of endless discovery. You could spend a lifetime exploring this country.

With so many alternatives to consider, choosing where to go in Japan from the sheer number of options of things to see, do, and experience is no easy feat! Information in foreign languages is rather scarce meaning that only a true expert knows the best places to visit in Japan. In order to live like a local, you have to be clued in the best things to do in Japan and we’re here to serve as your guide!

Shibuya

The famous “Scramble Crossing” by Shibuya Station is without a doubt one of the most iconic sights of Tokyo. On an average weekday, this bustling intersection bears foot traffic levels as high as 2.8 million people. Yes, that’s 2.8 million people a day! In addition to Shibuya’s mind-blowing crossing, many of Tokyo’s hippest clothing brands can be found in this area. Several cutting-edge fashion shops are located on or around the Center Gai Street. The famous Shibuya 109 shopping mall is a well-known legendary haunt for many shoppers and is anchored just a few minutes from the train station.
Naoshima

Officially part of Kagawa Prefecture, Naoshima is a small island in the Seto Inland Sea. Though it is a nice rustic getaway from Tokyo, the island is most famous for its numerous modern art museums, architecture, and sculptures. Many of these were designed by the well-known architect Ando Tadao. Some spots to keep an eye out for are the Chichu Art Museum, the Lee Ufan Museum, and the Benesse House.

You’re going to need to first make your way to either Uno port in Okayama Prefecture or Takamatsu port in Kagawa prefecture before you can catch a ferry out to the island.
Asakusa

This area of Tokyo is widely considered to be the city’s main cultural draw. While the district is home to a number of smaller temples, the main attractions feature the majestic Senso-ji Temple and the surrounding Nakamise shopping block. In addition to these historical treasures, Asakusa is also located within a short distance of the Tokyo Sky Tree and the Asahi Beer Hall. If you’re going to be in the neighbourhood, you’d do well to check these two venues out as well!
Akihabara

Akihabara has earned the well-known designation of being the world’s geek capital. From anime and manga to video games and computers, you will be hard pressed to find a more concentrated collection of geek culture on this planet. If you’re looking to experience a maid cafe (or even something a little more risque) look no further than fantastical Akihabara.
Odaiba

Odaiba is a large man-made island situated within Tokyo Bay and just beyond the Rainbow Bridge. The island is home to some impressively extravagant shopping centres sporting a Ferris wheel and other fun attractions because… Japan! During the upcoming 2020 summer Olympics, Odaiba will host a fair few sporting events, so enjoy it now before the crowds roll in!

Odaiba is quite popular with tourists thanks to the instalment of a life size Gundam statue stationed outside of the Diver City mall. Odaiba also features the popular Oedo Onsen Monogatari, a natural hot spring themed park.
Kabukicho

Shinjuku is famous for its overwhelming neon signs and there’s no place more exemplary of this than Kabukicho. The area takes its name from a Kabuki theatre that was erected in the vicinity following the devastating aftermath of World War II. Since that time, Kabukicho has evolved into one of Japan’s biggest red light districts and is a haven for numerous drinkeries, funky hostess/host clubs, and other novel adult diversions.

Luckily though, Kabukicho has more to offer than just glitz and sleaze. For one, the infamous Robot Restaurant is located in the heart of the district. As if this weren’t enough, Kabukicho also lays claim to being Tokyo’s latest attraction – the sensational VR Zone Shinjuku.
Ueno Park

If your travels allow for only a brief stay in Japan, there would likely be no better place to check out than Ueno Park. This area offers a smorgasbord of attractions that allow visitors to sample many of the country’s unique charms within a single venue. Furthermore, there is an awesome bustling shopping bazaar to investigate called Ameya Yokocho which features the remnants of an ancient black market.
Yokohama

While Tokyo’s southern neighbor isn’t exactly an unknown per say, a surprising number of visitors to Japan never make it to Yokohama. Given the area’s history and charm, this is a real shame. Whether you want to walk the streets of one of the world’s biggest Chinatown areas or have a fun day exploring the Minato Mirai waterfront, this city is guaranteed to dazzle everyone! While Tokyo can seem overwhelmingly fast paced at times, Yokohama’s welcoming vibe is definitely more relaxed. Taking a day strolling around Yokohama is definitely one of the best things to do in Japan to give yourself a better overview of the different cities.
Nikko

Nestled against the mountains of Tochigi Prefecture, Nikko is one of eastern Japan’s most important cultural spots. The city’s main attraction is the Toshogu Shrine where Tokugawa Ieyasu, the legendary founder of the Tokugawa shogunate, is enshrined. Nikko also has some other enchanting settings such as Futarasan Shrine and the Kanmangafuchi Abyss that are not to be missed.
Hitsujiyama Park

Japan is known for its cherry blossoms so visiting during cherry blossom season is an absolute must. Just look at those flowers! Visit Hitsujiyama Park for the picturesque shibazakura which translates as ‘lawn cherry blossoms’.

From late April to early May, head to Shibazakura Hill in Hitsujiyama Park. With over 400,000 trees of nine different varieties, it’s a perfect patchwork of pink, red, white and violet, set against the backdrop of the gargantuan Mount Buko.