Japan’s capital, Tokyo, is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Japan. A city of contrasts, Tokyo delights visitors with its historic streets and geisha district of Asakusa, the high-end shops and restaurants of Ginza and the quirky fashion centres of Shibuya and Harajuku.

It’s also home to a huge amount of exceptional restaurants fitting every taste and budget, outstanding museums and a number of stunning public gardens.

As one of the world’s most exciting and energetic cities, it seems ready to blast into the future at times, but also continues to cherish its considerable history and culture.

Shibu Onsen is an incredibly popular place to visit in Japan, to see the famous snow monkeys! These delightful macaques live in the hills around the natural hot springs. Accustomed to humans, the monkeys’ humorous behaviour in the warm waters can be seen at close quarters, as they tend to completely ignore their human visitors. Of course, it’s prohibited to touch or feed the monkeys. 

It is possible to see the snow monkeys year-round, though they are especially picturesque when the area has a dusting of snow – from November through to March.

Situated in Fuji Hakone National Park, Hakone is the gateway to incredible Mount Fuji. Infamously shy and elusive, Japan’s most famous mountain is often obscured by cloud; but for those not lucky enough to catch a glimpse, Hakone still has plenty to offer.

Aside from spectacular scenery, volcanically active Hakone is famous for its onsen (hot spring baths) and a night in a ryokan (a traditional, Japanese-style inn) is a must. There are also many lovely nature walks, tranquil shrines and art museums to enjoy.

Located in the Japanese Alps, Takayama’s traditional architecture, hillside shrines and sake breweries are all reasons to visit this delightful town.

The quality of Takayama’s craftsmen were widely renowned and this is reflected today in the old town, where the narrow streets are still lined with wonderfully preserved inns, tea houses and shops, many dating back to the Edo period. There are also many beautiful temples and shrines to explore, and a short distance from the city centre you’ll find Hida no Sato, an assortment of thatch-roof houses from central Japan.

Japan's cultural capital, Kyoto, is considered by many as one of the best places to visit in Japan. Home to an astonishing historical collection of monuments that has been collectively designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kyoto captivates its visitors with its traditions, culture and history. 

Kyoto is also a modern city, with plenty of concrete, steel and neon lights alongside its delightful, timeless scenes. If you’re lucky you may even catch a glimpse of a geisha disappearing down a Gion side street at dusk. Make time to Visit the 7th-century Shimogamo Shrine with its spectacular arcade of orange gates, the elegant Kinkakuji Temple with a gold-leaf exterior flawlessly reflected in a tranquil lake, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple with a hillside location that makes for remarkable city views.

Despite the destruction caused by the atomic bomb during WWII in 1945, Hiroshima has blossomed into an energetic modern city. Along with the moving Peace Memorial Museum and Park, reminders of that notorious day are all around, but the hopefulness of the city’s people shines through. A memorial service takes place once a year in August, where messages of peace are written onto paper lanterns which are lit at sunset to float down the river, a truly inspiring sight.  

The sacred island of Itsukushima, also known as Miyajima, just across the water is famed for its 1,400 year old giant orange floating torii (gate) and mountainous interior. Also make time to visit wonderfully rebuilt historic sites like Hiroshima Castle and Shukkei-en Garden, or enjoy hot springs in the nearby small towns.

The islands of Japan’s south western prefecture, Okinawa, extend for over 400 miles and are geographically closer to Taiwan than Japan! This is the best place to visit in Japan if you’re looking for a beach break. There are 160 islands, large and small, which are as diverse as they are bountiful. Discover gorgeous beaches, vibrant coral reefs and verdant jungle in this Japanese paradise.

With its subtropical climate and easy-going, rural lifestyle, Ishigaki Island is a popular getaway for those wishing to escape the hustle and bustle of Japan’s cities. This scenic island and its surrounding coral reef offers beaches, snorkelling, diving and relaxation aplenty.

One of Honshu’s most picturesque regions, the Kiso Valley formed part of an ancient trade route and sections of the 17th Century Nakasendo Highway are now a popular hiking trail.

Aside from enjoying the charming scenery en route, the beautifully preserved post towns of Tsumago and Magome have an amazing sense of history – you can almost imagine you are a travelling samurai back in the Edo period!

The southernmost of Japan’s four main islands, Kyushu is an island of outstanding natural beauty mixed with vibrant cities, and is famous for its lush greenery, hot springs, active volcanos and friendly people. 

Highlights include the modern ‘foodie’ city of Fukuoka, home to an intriguing combination of museums and mega-malls, and Nagasaki with its rich, and at times, tragic history.

Clouds of steam radiating from the many onsen streak the skyline and the smell of sulphur fills the air of Beppu, Kyushu’s hot spring capital.

Packed with natural wonders, Hokkaido is the least populated of Japan's main islands. The national parks are home to remarkable volcanic peaks, vibrant wildflower meadows and miles of untamed wilderness, perfect for hiking and cycling. 

Despite a limited transport infrastructure, Hokkaido is increasing in popularity for more intrepid travellers, especially between the spring and autumn. Winters typically experience heavy snowfall and bitter temperatures.

Japan’s third largest city and the country’s second most commercially significant behind Tokyo, Osaka has a lot to offer.

Under its former name of Naniwa, the city was Japan’s first capital back in the 7th Century and whilst the shift of power has moved to Tokyo, Osaka retains some of that history with several well-preserved monuments.

The city’s real charm lies in its flamboyance, its exuberant residents and its incredible food. It is now, without a doubt, Japan’s foodie capital, and is the best place to visit in Japan if you’re looking to try a variety of delicious cuisine.

Known as one of Japan's most prosperous towns during the 17th Century Edo period due to centuries of abundant rice production, Kanazawa is one of Japan’s most important cultural centres.

The powerful ruling Maeda clan, based in Kanazawa Castle, used much of their wealth not on warfare, but on practicing cultural and artistic pursuits. Its centrepiece is Kenroku-en which is one of the most stunning gardens in the country.

The city boasts many historical attractions such as restored residences and intriguing old geisha and Samurai districts, as well as modern museums.

For more inspiration, take a look at our Japan Holidays pages.