Everybody who has visited Japan will tell you about how beautiful it is. One of the most popular destinations in the whole of Asia, there is a wealth of different things to do and see.
The country has an intriguing blend of history, culture and modernity. From futuristic skyscrapers to tropical beaches, there is something for everyone.
If you want to find out more about some of the amazing places you can visit in Japan (see also ‘Oldest Places In Japan That You Can Still Visit‘), and find out some that you might not be aware of, keep reading as we take a look below.
Nara Park
Located in the public park in the city of Nara, this is one of the oldest parks found in Japan today.
It contains several different attractions, including the National Museum of Nara. Wild roaming deer can also be seen surrounding the park.
Kiyotsu Gorge And The Tunnel Of Light Niigata Prefecture
This amazing attraction is a massive natural marvel, with volcanic columns which overlook a stunning view of the river below.
The tunnel of light was created after tourism was deemed to be unsafe in the area.
The tunnel is a spectacular 750m long tunnel that visitors can walk through to witness the beauty of the scene.
Meguro River
Based in Tokyo, this river flows through the city. It is 7.82km in length and passes through Setagaya, Megura and Shinagawa. It eventually ends up all the way in Tokyo bay.
Kinkakuji Temple
This is a zen Buddhist temple in Kyojo. It is one of the most popular buildings in the region and attracts lots of tourists every year.
Inside, you can see the statue of the Kannon Bodhisattva, who is surrounded by statues of the four holy kings.
Mt Fuji
This mountain is known as the highest in the whole of Japan, it stands at a spectacular 3,776.24 m.
It is considered one of the three sacred mountains in the country, and is a popular space for tourists to go hiking. It has several works of art that depict it, including those by Hokusai.
Shirakawa-go
This is a historic village which is located in a mountainous region, far removed from the rest of society. The houses all have thatched roofs and despite economic growth, the residents of these houses still enjoy living in a more traditional way.
Motonosumi Shrine
This shrine allows you to shoot a donation into a box at the top of the tallest standing torii gate, which is approximately six meters tall.
If you are able to get your coin into the box, this means that your wish will come true.
Shibuya Crossing
This crossing in Tokyo has become incredibly popular in the media, standing in the center of two large railway centers.
It is actually known as the busiest crossing in the entire world, as people scramble over to the other side ferociously.
Perhaps not traditionally beautiful, but it has been the subject for many works of art.
Ashikaga Flower Park
This place is truly beautiful to look at with hundreds of flowers displaying their brilliance each year. You can monitor the changing of the seasons as they bud and bloom intermittently.
Blue Pond
The blue pond in Hokkaido, despite its seemingly natural appearance, is actually man-made. Its strikingly blue appearance actually makes it look as though it is a part of another world.
Mt Haguro
In Yamagata, this attraction is very easily accessible for tourists. It looks very much like an enchanted forest, with a surreal and magical quality.
As you reach the peak of the walk you will see a peculiar set of steps that are five stories high, marking that you’ve reached your destination.
Mifuneyama Rakuen Park
This park is found in Kyushu dating from the latter portion of the Edo period. It is a place that is considered sacred to Buddhists and contains many statues that represent the religion (see also ‘The 4 Most Common Religions In Japan And The Reasons Why‘).
There are also lots of tea houses so you can stop off for something to drink in the midst of your walk.
Fushimi Inari-Taisha
This is the head shrine of the kami inari, famous for its spectacular vermilion torii gates that straddle a network of trails behind the main building.
Oirase Gorge
This is an incredibly picturesque gorge which is found in the mountains of Aomori. It is most popular for tourists to visit during the Autumn months, as the leaves turn into a bright orange and the stream moves at full speed.
Kamikochi
This is an area located on the northern portion of the alps. It has an amazing view of the scenery but is famously not arduous to walk.
This will be perfect if you want to see something spectacular but you’re all tuckered out.
Hitachi Seaside Park
Those who enjoy admiring the flora will surely appreciate a trip down here. Surrounded by flowers, the park contains approximately 3.5 million nemophila that are all blue. Make sure that you visit in springtime so that you can see the flowers in full bloom.
Himeji Castle
Himeji Castle is a truly amazing castle which stands on the top of a hill. It is famous for its stunningly white castle walls, which represents a classic depiction of Japanese architecture. In 1931, it was declared a national treasure.
Imperial Palace Grounds
The imperial palace grounds are the main residence of the Emperor of Japan, and so if you are a fan of the Japanese monarchy, be sure to visit here and take a look around the beautiful grounds.
Benesse Art Site
This is a project developed in Naoshima, where people are allowed to enjoy contemporary arts and works of architecture.
It has a gorgeous setting, being surrounded by mountains and rivers. It is also a very popular place for international visitors, so be sure to check it out.
Tama Art University Library
This library is truly spectacular, being housed in the suburbs of Tokyo, it contains a wealth of different academic material. It also boasts the collections of the late Shuzo Takiguchi.
Oyama Rice Terrace
This rice terrace is truly vast. Considered one of the best rice terraces in Japan, the view here is truly magnificent.
Bioluminescent Rocks
I’m sure that you’ve never seen anything like these before, the bioluminescent rocks found in Okayama glow a brilliant blue color during the nighttime.
Tottori Sand Dunes
These are located outside the city center of Tottori, and were actually formed thousands of years ago.
Hi, I’m Jason Patrick, and for as long as I have been alive, I have been obsessed with Japanese culture. From the sights and sounds of Japan’s many cities to its culinary delights that have become famous worldwide, I simply cannot get enough of this wonderful nation!
I hope that, by exploring this website, you all will develop a much deeper appreciation for Japan, and that it may even influence you to pay it a visit yourself eventually! It is definitely a trip of a lifetime, and whether you experience it firsthand, or through my own website, I’m sure you will become just as passionate as I always have been!
