The 20 best cities in Japan that you absolutely must visit
Our pick of Japan’s top 20 cities
When it comes to the best cities in Japan, the list is seemingly endless. From its vibrant culture to its stunning landscapes, Japan offers a wealth of exciting places to explore. With so many amazing cities to choose from, it can be hard to narrow down the list of must-visit spots.
Luckily, we have compiled the ultimate guide to the 20 best cities in Japan that you absolutely must visit! From its bustling metropolises to its charming rural towns, this list has something for everyone.
Keep reading to find out why these Japanese cities need to be on your travel itinerary.
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Tokyo
As the capital of Japan, Tokyo is one of the most popular cities to visit. Boasting stunning architecture, a wide range of shopping and dining experiences, and an exciting nightlife scene, Tokyo has something for everyone.
There are plenty of world-famous attractions to explore, such as the Sensoji Temple and Tokyo Skytree, as well as unique museums and galleries.
The city also has plenty of parks and gardens to explore, allowing visitors to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city streets and enjoy some peace and quiet.
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Kyoto
One of Japan's most famous cities, Kyoto is the cultural capital of the country and home to more than 2,000 temples and shrines. It's a great place to learn about traditional Japanese culture and architecture, as well as explore some stunning gardens and parks.
The city also has many delicious restaurants and bars to enjoy after exploring the temples, as well as a vibrant nightlife. From the golden pavilion to the Imperial Palace, there are plenty of sights and attractions to experience in Kyoto.
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Osaka
Osaka, the second largest city in Japan and the birthplace of the much-loved street food culture, is a must-visit destination.
Rich in historical sites, like the towering 16th-century Osaka Castle, vibrant shopping and entertainment hubs such as Universal Studios Japan, and a bustling nightlife district, Osaka is a top spot to explore Japan.
Visitors can enjoy traditional Japanese dishes like okonomiyaki and takoyaki, or find delicious international cuisine around every corner. Whether you're looking for an afternoon of sightseeing or an evening of fun with friends, Osaka is sure to impress.
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Sapporo
Located on the island of Hokkaido, Sapporo is the fifth-largest city in Japan and one of the nation's top tourist destinations. Known for its winter sports, beer festivals and snow sculptures, Sapporo is a vibrant city with plenty to explore.
Stroll around the vast Odori Park in the center of town and explore the wide range of cultural attractions, including the historic Clock Tower and the Sapporo Beer Museum. For outdoor enthusiasts, there are plenty of outdoor activities such as skiing and snowboarding in the surrounding mountains.
Sapporo is also known for its culinary scene – try some of the local ramen or Hokkaido-style curries. With its friendly locals, vibrant culture and stunning natural beauty, Sapporo is definitely a must-visit when exploring Japan.
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Yokohama
With its bustling port, vibrant shopping streets, and array of historical attractions, Yokohama offers something for everyone.
Visit the iconic Chinatown district to try local cuisine, explore the art museums, or wander through the beautiful Sankei-en Garden. The famous Minato Mirai 21 skyline is also worth checking out, with its futuristic skyscrapers, observation decks, and amusement parks.
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Nagoya
Nagoya is the fourth largest city in Japan and a must-visit for those wanting to experience the best of the country. It's a great place to enjoy both historical and modern Japan, with attractions such as Nagoya Castle, Atsuta Shrine, Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium and much more.
Enjoy some of the local specialties like Miso Katsu and Hitachi-style Hiyashi Chuka. Shopping is also popular, with two large malls in town offering plenty of options. For a unique experience, try out the Nagoya Meshi food tour and get a taste of all the delicious dishes Nagoya has to offer!
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Fukuoka
Located in the south of Japan, Fukuoka is a must-visit city due to its unique culture and incredible attractions.
Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city's Nakasu district and try local delicacies like tonkotsu ramen and mentaiko. Fukuoka also has plenty of temples and shrines, such as Kushida Shrine, Tenmangu Shrine and Tochoji Temple.
There’s also the stunning Fukuoka Castle and the Fukuoka Tower, which provides panoramic views of the city. Don’t forget to visit Ohori Park, one of the most famous parks in Japan with its calm atmosphere. Fukuoka is definitely worth a visit!
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Kawasaki
Kawasaki is a thriving city located in Kanagawa prefecture, close to Tokyo. It is home to the iconic Kawasaki Daishi temple, which is one of the most important Buddhist temples in Japan.
Visitors can also find a number of beautiful gardens and parks around the city, such as Todoroki Valley and the Kawasaki City Park. The nearby Kanda River provides plenty of outdoor activities like rafting and fishing.
With its convenient location, vibrant culture and stunning scenery, Kawasaki is an ideal spot for a day trip from Tokyo or an extended stay.
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Hiroshima
One of the must-visit cities in Japan is Hiroshima. It was tragically destroyed by an atomic bomb in 1945, but has since been restored and is now known as one of the most peaceful places in the world.
You can visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, the Atomic Bomb Dome and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum to learn about the history of the bombing and its impact on the city and its people.
The food here is delicious, too - don't miss out on trying Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki! There's also a vibrant nightlife and plenty of cultural activities to enjoy. Hiroshima is sure to leave a lasting impression on any visitor.
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Sendai
The city of Sendai is located in the Miyagi Prefecture and is home to more than one million people. It is known for its beautiful gardens, including the Aoba Castle Ruins Park, Zuihoden Mausoleum, and the Rinnoji Temple.
There are also a number of interesting museums here, including the Sendai City Museum, which contains artifacts from the city's history. As one of the three largest cities in the Tohoku region, it offers plenty of shopping and entertainment options.
Additionally, Sendai is a great place to visit during the spring when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom.
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Shizuoka
Located in the Chubu region of Honshu Island, Shizuoka is a popular destination for those looking to explore Japan. Home to Mt. Fuji, the stunning lake of Lake Hamana, and some of the best green tea in the country, it’s an ideal spot for nature lovers.
Other attractions include Kurokawa Onsen, Izu Cactus Park and Ryugashido Cave. The area is also home to some of the country’s most celebrated festivals, like the Spring Grand Festival at Atami Sun Beach and the Hakone Ekiden Marathon in January.
Make sure to take in the majestic views along the Izu-Kogen Coastal Road and sample the delicious seafood caught fresh from the Pacific Ocean.
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Matsuyama
Matsuyama is located in Ehime Prefecture on the island of Shikoku, and is an ideal spot for those looking to experience traditional Japan. The city’s most famous sight is Matsuyama Castle, which stands majestically over the town from its hilltop vantage point.
The castle is surrounded by a beautiful park full of walking trails and cherry trees, perfect for relaxing strolls. A trip to Matsuyama wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Dogo Onsen, one of Japan’s oldest hot springs resorts.
The area is steeped in history, with woodblock prints and ryokan inns remaining from centuries past. For a taste of traditional culture, head to Ishiteji Temple, which houses thousands of stone statues dedicated to different deities.
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Kumamoto
Located in Kyushu, the city of Kumamoto is well-known for its beautiful nature and incredible historical sites. Kumamoto Castle is a must-see landmark that has been around since the 17th century, and the gorgeous Suizenji Park is an excellent place to admire the picturesque scenery.
Other attractions include Aso Volcano Museum and the Aso-Kuju National Park, which is home to many hot springs. Kumamoto is also a great spot for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and skiing.
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Okayama
Okayama is a vibrant and picturesque city located in the Chugoku region of Japan. It is renowned for its stunning views of Okayama Castle, known as "Crow Castle" because of its black exterior walls. From the castle, visitors can take in breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea and other nearby landmarks.
The city is also home to Korakuen Garden, one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan. Other popular attractions include the Momotaro Shrine and the Okayama Prefectural Museum of Art, which houses artwork from various Japanese artists.
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Kagoshima
Situated on the coast of southern Japan, Kagoshima is one of the country's best-kept secrets. A modern city set against a stunning natural backdrop, it boasts some of the country's most stunning views. From majestic Mount Sakurajima to the tranquil Kinko Bay, there's something for everyone here.
The city is packed with historic sites, including the atmospheric Tenmonkan shopping district and the impressive Shimadzu castle. Nature lovers should explore the fascinating Kirishima-Yaku National Park, while foodies will be in their element with delicious local specialties like satsuma-age and kamaboko. No matter what brings you to Kagoshima, you're sure to have an unforgettable experience.
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Nara
Nara is an ancient city that has been around since the 8th century. It's home to some of Japan's most important cultural and historical sites, including the UNESCO World Heritage Sites Todai-ji Temple and Kofuku-ji Temple.
There's plenty to explore here, from the towering five-story pagoda at Kofuku-ji Temple to the beautiful Deer Park where deer roam freely. Take a walk through Nara Park and marvel at the many different temples and shrines scattered throughout the area.
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Utsunomiya
Located in Tochigi prefecture, Utsunomiya is often overlooked by travelers visiting Japan. This is a shame because Utsunomiya has much to offer. Known as the “Gyoza City,” it’s famous for its gyoza dumplings. The city is also known for its shrines and temples, such as the Oyaji Temple, which dates back to the Edo period.
Utsunomiya is also home to a number of historical sites and museums, such as the Utsunomiya City Museum, which houses a wide variety of artifacts and relics. With plenty of delicious food and a wealth of culture, Utsunomiya is definitely worth a visit.
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Takamatsu
Located on the island of Shikoku, Takamatsu is the perfect place to experience traditional Japan. Home to Ritsurin Garden, a stunning landscaped garden that features a large pond, it's a great place to relax and admire the beautiful views.
The city also has a vibrant food scene, featuring local specialties like takoyaki, udon, and okonomiyaki. Shopping is also a popular activity here with plenty of shopping centers and stores, as well as art galleries to explore.
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Niigata
The coastal city of Niigata is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Japan. Located on the Sea of Japan, it's a great destination for anyone who loves the ocean. The port of Niigata is a major international hub and the area is known for its fresh seafood.
There are many festivals that take place in Niigata, as well as plenty of outdoor activities. Niigata has something to offer everyone, whether you're looking for a cultural experience or some fun on the beach. With so much to see and do, Niigata is a must-visit destination in Japan!
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Himeji
Himeji is a historic city in Japan that deserves to be on the list of must-visit cities. Located in the Hyōgo Prefecture, it is known as the “White Heron Castle” because of its white castle that stands tall amongst the surrounding cityscape.
As one of the oldest and most iconic castles in Japan, Himeji Castle offers visitors the chance to experience ancient Japanese architecture. Visitors can also explore the cobblestone streets of the old town and soak up the vibrant culture of the city. With its picturesque views, Himeji is an ideal destination for those looking for a tranquil escape.
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