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Japan offers a varied range of attractions, including Shinto shrines, Buddhist temples, trade routes, gardens, pet cafés, art styles, cultural icons, and delicious cuisine. (We challenge you to read that aloud without taking a breath!).
However, there is a hidden cost to having so many options. With so many options to choose from, it's difficult to decide where to travel in Japan! Information in foreign languages is rare, therefore only a genuine expert knows the finest spots to visit in Japan. To live like a local, you need to know the cool places in japan, and we're here to help!
Cool Places In Japan
We urge you to investigate and discover more on your own, even if it means getting lost in the process. To help you get back on track, we've compiled a list of the top cities in Japan to act as a framework and get you started – ready, set, go! Here are our choices for the top places to visit in japan.
Shibuya
The famed “Scramble Crossing” outside Shibuya Station is undoubtedly one of Tokyo's most memorable sites. On an ordinary daily basis, this busy crossroads sees up to 2.8 million pedestrians. Yes, that's 2.8 million individuals per day! If you're attempting to take the ideal selfie in the middle of the crossing, make sure you get to the other side before the traffic lights turn red!
In addition to Shibuya's breathtaking crossing, this region is home to several of Tokyo's most fashionable apparel businesses. Several cutting-edge fashion stores are located on or around Center Gai Street. The famed Shibuya 109 retail mall is a well-known legend among consumers and is located within a few minutes from the train station.
Enjoy the feeling of being the center of attention as everyone notices you, smiles, waves, and takes photographs of you!
Shibuya, Harajuku, and Omotesando are all close in distance, yet each has an own personality and past.The skilled guides will guarantee your tour is safe yet enjoyable for you.
👉 Street Kart Go-Kart Tour in Shibuya Annex
Naoshima
Naoshima is a tiny island in the Seto Inland Sea that belongs to Kagawa Prefecture. Though it provides a wonderful rural escape from Tokyo, the island is most known for its various modern art museums, architecture, and sculptures. Many of them were created by the renowned architect Ando Tadao. Keep a look out for the Chichu Art Museum, the Lee Ufan Museum, and the Benesse House.
As one can expect, traveling to Naoshima is a real pain in the, um, buttocks! You must first travel to either Uno port in Okayama Prefecture or Takamatsu port in Kagawa Prefecture before boarding a ship to the island. The ports are difficult to reach, let alone the island, so plan on a long journey and prepare to spend overnight in the vicinity.
You may enjoy a one-day island tour from Takamatsu Port to Naoshima Island by boat and bicycle!!
You may spend around 7 hours cycling around Naoshima Island (with power-assisted bicycle, E-bike) with a private English-speaking guide.
👉 Naoshima Island 1 day Cycling Tour
Asakusa
This neighborhood of Tokyo is often regarded as the city's primary cultural attraction. While the region contains a variety of lesser temples, the primary attractions are the stately Senso-ji Temple and the adjoining Nakamise retail district. In addition to these historical relics, Asakusa is one of the Japanese tourist sites close to the Tokyo Sky Tree and the Asahi Beer Hall. If you're in the area, you should also visit these two places! The Asahi Beer Hall is one of the top locations to visit in Japan for beer enthusiasts!
Dive into Tokyo’s traditional side by visiting the historic Senso-ji Temple, browsing Nakamise-dori Street for souvenirs, and soaking up the area’s old-town charm. Asakusa is a perfect blend of spirituality, history, and local culture.
👉 Asakusa: 1400-year History Exploration
Akihabara
Calling all geeks! Akihabara is widely recognized as the world's geek capital. From anime and manga to video games and computers, it's difficult to find a more concentrated concentration of geek culture anywhere on the world. If you want to try a maid café (or something little more risqué), go no farther than magical Akihabara.
Be cautious when visiting shops, as a tiny number are judged to be much outside the “safe for work” category. Don't claim we didn't give you fair warning.
Tokyo’s go-to district for electronics, anime, and gaming enthusiasts. Akihabara’s unique atmosphere combines tech shops with vibrant anime culture, and maid cafés, making it an unmissable stop for pop culture fans.
👉 Tokyo City, Akihabara Games, Anime, & Manga Otaku Half Day Tour
Shinjuku
Shinjuku is well-known for its massive neon signs, and Kabukicho is no exception. The region is named after a Kabuki theatre that was built nearby following the devastation of World War II. Since then, Kabukicho has grown into one of Japan's largest red light districts, home to several drinkeries, trendy hostess/host clubs, and other creative adult entertainment options.
Fortunately, Kabukicho offers more than glamor and filth. For starters, the notorious Robot Restaurant is situated in the middle of the area. As if that wasn't enough, Kabukicho also claims to be Tokyo's newest attraction, the amazing VR Zone Shinjuku. If you've always wanted to play games like Mario Card in virtual reality, you can't miss this scenario!
This bustling district is famous for its skyscrapers, shopping hubs, and entertainment. Highlights include the neon-lit Kabukicho, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, and Omoide Yokocho for izakaya food delights.
👉 Tokyo Shibuya & Shinjuku Photo & Video Shooting Tour
Ueno Par
If you just have time in Japan, Ueno Park is perhaps the best site to visit. This area has a plethora of attractions that allow tourists to experience many of the country's distinct characteristics in a one location. There is also an amazing busy retail area to explore called Ameya Yokocho, which has vestiges of a historic black market.
Finally, if you enjoy off-beat places, we propose that you visit neighboring Yanaka. The region was one of the few to withstand the devastation of World War II, making it a true entrance into Tokyo's historical and cultural past.
A popular cherry blossom spot, Ueno Park houses museums, a zoo, and serene ponds. It’s ideal for picnics and peaceful strolls, and offers access to cultural gems like the Tokyo National Museum and Ueno Zoo.
👉 Walking Tour in Ueno and Yanaka : Culture, Art and Old Tokyo
Yokohama
While Tokyo's southern neighbor is far from obscure, a surprising amount of travelers to Japan never visit Yokohama. Given the area's history and attractiveness, this is a pity. Whether you choose to explore the alleys of one of the world's largest Chinatowns or spend the day visiting the Minato Mirai waterfront, this city will captivate everyone!
While Tokyo might appear overly fast-paced at times, Yokohama's inviting atmosphere is undeniably more relaxing. Taking a day roaming about Yokohama is undoubtedly one of the greatest things to do in Japan to get a better sense of the various cities.
Just a short trip from Tokyo, Yokohama boasts attractions like the Minato Mirai district, the Cup Noodles Museum, and Chinatown, one of the largest in Japan. It’s a wonderful coastal city for modern attractions and seaside relaxation.
👉 Yokohama City, Red Brick Warehouse, Yamashita Park, & Chinatown Tour
Nikko
Nikko, nestled against the mountains of Tochigi Prefecture, is a cultural hotspot in eastern Japan. The city's primary attraction is the Toshogu Shrine, which is dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the renowned founder of the Tokugawa shogunate. Other magical surroundings in Nikko include Futarasan Shrine and the Kanmangafuchi Abyss, which should not be missed.
Make sure to explore the adjacent Edo Wonderland. This theme park was designed to send guests back hundreds of years to Japan's medieval period. It's a little expensive to enter, but the costs are definitely worth the trip!
A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its elaborate temples, including the famous Toshogu Shrine. With its beautiful waterfalls, lakes, and hot springs, Nikko is perfect for those seeking natural beauty and historic sites.
👉 Toshogu Shrine & Iroha Mountain Trail & Akechidaira Ropeway & Kegon Falls & Lake Chuzenji Day Tour
Hitsujiyama Park
Japan is famous for its cherry blossoms, so coming during cherry blossom season is an absolute must. Just look at the blooms! Visit Hitsujiyama Park to see the beautiful shibazakura, which translates as ‘lawn cherry blossoms'.
From late April to early May, visit Shibazakura Hill in Hitsujiyama Park. Over 400,000 trees of nine different types provide a magnificent tapestry of pink, crimson, white, and violet against the backdrop of the massive Mount Buko. For genuine Instagram inspiration, go the Chichibu Shibazakura Festival in the park, where the petals are arranged in an explosion of forms and swirls.
This park in Chichibu is known for its breathtaking Shibazakura Hill, covered with pink moss phlox during spring. It’s a picture-perfect spot for floral enthusiasts looking to capture Japan’s vibrant spring colors.
👉 Mount Fuji popular check-in day tour
Tohoku
Tohoku is a collective word for the northern section of Japan's main island. Tohoku is full of hidden beauties, and travelers should explore places like Yama-dera and the Ginzan Onsen.
A word of advise for visitors going in early August: be sure to attend Aomori's Nebuta Festival. It's an incredible once-in-a-lifetime experience, but you'll need to book your accommodations well in advance to avoid being overbooked by domestic visitors!
A scenic region rich in history and natural beauty, Tohoku offers everything from samurai towns and traditional festivals to hot springs and mountains. It’s ideal for immersing yourself in authentic Japanese culture.
Kawagoe
Kawagoe, located only 45 minutes northwest of Tokyo, may easily be mistaken for a modern time machine! Because of its numerous ancient warehouses, this little-known area has acquired the nickname “Little Edo” (Edo was Tokyo's previous name). Today, both tourists and residents may enjoy a historic day excursion from Tokyo.
One fascinating fact is that Kawagoe's Kita-in temple is essentially made out of the last remaining remains of Edo Castle. Following a massive fire, the shogunate had pieces of the castle carried on foot all the way from downtown Tokyo to Kawagoe to rebuild the temple. You may now dazzle your pals with Kawagoe knowledge. You're welcome!
Also known as “Little Edo,” Kawagoe preserves the charm of Japan’s Edo period with its traditional warehouses, Kawagoe Castle, and candy alley. This historical city is a lovely day trip for cultural exploration.
👉 Karuizawa & Kawagoe One Day Tour from Tokyo
Kamakura
Kamakura, a beach village, was originally Japan's military capital. The area is significantly responsible for the establishment of samurai culture as it exists today. Furthermore, Kamakura is one of the primary birthplaces of Japanese Zen Buddhism. Many temples that promoted such spiritual ideas continue to practice the core of Buddha's teachings today.
Kamakura is typically regarded as a day excursion, although the area offers many activities to keep visitors entertained for several days. Kamakura, with its bamboo trees and historic temples, may fulfill every reason why tourists visit Kyoto. With its bustling beaches, backstreet retail alleyways, and native cuisine, Kamakura is sure to delight and amuse everyone.
A coastal city known for the Great Buddha of Kamakura, ancient temples, and beautiful beaches. Kamakura blends serene landscapes with historical significance, making it a favorite escape from Tokyo.
👉 Kamakura Kotoku-in Temple & Enoshima One Day Tour from Tokyo
Okinawa
The Okinawa islands are around two and a half hours away from Tokyo by air. While nominally part of Japan, the islands may easily be another nation! Historically, Okinawa was its own entity known as the Ryukyu Kingdom. Because of this heritage, Okinawa has a significantly distinct history from the rest of Japan, which is seen in the local cultural themes.
Many Japanese people consider Okinawa to be a tropical paradise. There are plenty of other enjoyable activities than lying on the beach. Costa-del-Okinawa!
Known for its subtropical climate, Okinawa boasts pristine beaches, coral reefs, and unique Ryukyu culture. It’s a paradise for beach lovers, snorkelers, and those interested in a distinct side of Japanese heritage.
👉 Cape Zanpa & Ryukyu Village Day Tour from Naha/Chatan with Lunch
Japan Travel Tips for Female Travelers
To ensure a smooth and memorable trip to Kabukicho and beyond, here are some essential tips tailored for female travelers:
- Stay Connected: Consider renting a portable Wi-Fi device or purchasing a Japanese SIM card to have internet access anytime. This makes it easy to navigate, book tours, and stay connected with friends.
- Choose Safe Accommodations: For added comfort, look for women-only floors or hostels in Tokyo, which offer female-exclusive amenities and added security. Options like women-only capsules or ryokan-style stays can be both cozy and convenient.
- Cash is King: Many places in Japan, especially small shops and restaurants, still prefer cash. Keep some yen on hand to avoid inconveniences. Most convenience stores also offer ATMs with English instructions.
- Embrace Japanese Fashion: Japan is known for its diverse fashion, so feel free to explore unique styles and blend in with trendy locals. Lightweight, modest clothing is ideal for both comfort and fitting into the local vibe.
- Navigating Public Transport: Japan’s trains are reliable and safe, but during peak hours they can be crowded. Consider traveling during off-peak times if you want a more relaxed experience. Some trains even have women-only cars for added comfort.
Conclusion
Japan is a land of cool places and captivating sights, offering travelers everything from stunning landscapes to vibrant cityscapes. With so many Cool Places in Japan to explore, like the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto, the breathtaking Mount Fuji, and the unique art island of Naoshima, every corner of Japan promises unforgettable memories. For a seamless experience, remember to book your accommodations, activities, and travel insurance in advance. And pack all the essentials so you’re prepared to explore Cool Places In Japan with ease!
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