What are the main tourist attractions and activities in Japan?

tokyo

Japan’s modern city capital lacks the polished aesthetic of Kyoto or the tranquility of Nara, but it succeeds with contemporary icons like the forest of skyscrapers that dominates the Shinjuku district, the ever-changing gadgets on display in the Sony building and hyper modern street. Harajuku fashions and boutiques. Historic highlights include the country’s most revered Shinto shrine, Meiji-jingu, and the impressive Senso-ji temple, while the early-morning, old-style Tsukji fish market stands in stark contrast to the city’s shopping malls. superchic Ginza, the latest gadgets for sale in Akihabara’s “Electronics Town” and the cutting-edge clubs in Roppongi.

Kyoto

This ancient historical capital should be at the top of every visitor’s list. It has dozens of impressive Buddhist temples, some of the best Zen gardens in the country, and charming quarters of traditional wooden houses and teahouses. Don’t miss the 1,001 golden Buddha statues at Sanjusanngen-do Temple, Ginkakuji Temple of the Silver Pavilion, or the inspiring Ryoan-ji Rock Garden. The modern face of Kyoto is energetic and youthful, with good bars, clubs and restaurants, and there are invigorating hill walks within easy reach for day trips.

hiroshima

Many visitors to Japan make a pilgrimage to the excellent Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, a balanced commemoration of the dropping of the atomic bomb here on August 6, 1945, and its terrifying aftermath. The regenerated city has a lively, happy atmosphere and is a joy to explore. Just twenty minutes away by ferry is the small island of Miyajima, site of one of the most picturesque Shinto shrines in Japan.

Mount Fuji

Although the hike to the top of Japan’s iconic snow peak takes a grueling six hours, thousands of people manage to reach the 3,776-meter summit each summer. Unfortunately, the tracks are always packed with hikers, the mountainside is littered with unattractive volcanic debris, and due to persistent haze, views are rarely spectacular. A better way to appreciate Fuji-san is to climb nearby Mount Tenjo, which you can do in just 45 minutes, giving you a chance to admire Mount Fuji from a more interesting perspective. Or, even quieter, take a slow train ride through the surrounding Hakone region, an area of ​​lakes and hot springs that also offers great views of the holy peak.

himeji castle

With its five-tiered ceilings, graceful proportions, and cool interiors, the imposing Himeji Castle looks a lot like it did when it housed the local lord and his samurai in the 17th century. Take the free guided tour to discover the castle’s secret defenses, including floors that were designed to creak and a maze-like network of corridors.

The Valley of Tone

For a glimpse of traditional life in rural Japan, rent a bike for a day of cycling here, visit some of the restored 18th-century farmhouses, and stop at one of the local folk museums.

Kenrokuen in Kanazawa City

Japanese gardens have inspired designers around the world, and Kenrokuen, the country’s finest garden, is a classic composition of ponds, pine trees, contemplative vistas, and elegant teahouses.

nikko

Set in a vast forested park of mountains, lakes, and waterfalls, this elaborately carved and garishly painted complex of shrines and temples looks especially fantastic in the snow.

nara

A popular excursion from Kyoto, and also a former capital, Nara is dotted with venerable temples and shrines, most notably the historic Todai-ji temple, which houses a fifteen-meter-tall bronze Buddha.

Hiking in Kirishima National Park

The southern island of Kyushu boasts the country’s most spectacular volcanic landscape, most notably in Kirishima National Park, which has 23 peaks within its boundaries. There are plenty of invigorating mountain trails here, plus waterfalls, an impressive gorge, and an outdoor hot spring.

hokkaido

The northernmost of Japan’s four main islands is also the wildest and least populated. The volcanic landscape is dotted with lakes and forests, making it a perfect place for hiking: Shiretoko National Park is especially rewarding, with lakes linked by forest trails, plus natural hot springs and challenging trails.

One night is a ryokan

These traditional posadas are like a real step back in time; rooms have tatami mat floors, plush futon beds, sliding paper doors, and views of traditional Japanese gardens. Everyone walks around in socks and you can often order dinner to be served on low tables in your room.

A session in the onsen

Bathing in open-air hot springs is a big thing in Japan and there are many lovely places to enjoy a communal bath, including the popular Bappu on the southern island of Kyushu.

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