15 Unforgettable Attractions You Need to Visit in Japan

8 min read
May 18, 2024

Japan is an incredibly diverse and profound country, touching upon historical, cultural, and technological realms. Trying to summarize its rich array of landmarks into a list of fifteen barely scratches the surface of what Japan truly offers. Each location's importance can differ widely based on what a visitor is looking for. Whether you're fascinated by ancient temples rich in history, captivated by the bustling urban landscapes that highlight the zenith of modernity, or seeking the serene natural wonders that provide an escape from the tech-driven world, Japan has something to cater to every taste. Even this expanded list merely begins to explore a vast, multifaceted nation, where every nook and cranny promises new discoveries.

Tokyo, renowned as the largest metropolitan city globally, boasts an impressive skyline that captures the world's attention. Here are a few must-see Towers (1 ~ 3) in Tokyo that you shouldn't miss on your visit to Japan.

Tokyo Tower, an emblematic landmark of Japan’s post-war revival and economic growth, rises proudly in central Tokyo. At 333 meters high, it was Japan's tallest structure until the Tokyo Sky Tree was completed. Inspired by the Eiffel Tower, its red and white lattice design has been cherished since its opening in 1958. Tokyo Tower provides visitors with stunning views of the vast cityscape from its two observation decks. The Main Observatory at 150 meters and the Special Observatory at 250 meters offer sweeping panoramas that can reach as far as Mount Fuji on clear days.

Photo by Louie Martinez on Unsplash

The Tokyo Sky Tree stands as a testament to modern engineering and architectural expertise, highlighting Japan's technological progress and deep-rooted cultural history. Soaring to an astounding 634 meters, it is celebrated as the tallest tower in the world and the second tallest structure following the Burj Khalifa. Nestled in Tokyo's Sumida City Ward, the Sky Tree is a multifunctional hub, mainly acting as the television and radio broadcasting center for the Kanto region.

The Tokyo Sky Tree is home to two observation decks that deliver stunning, sweeping views of Tokyo and its surroundings. From these vantage points, visitors can truly take in the city's immense scale and beauty. The Tembo Deck, located at 350 meters, and the Tembo Galleria, soaring up to 450 meters, offer unmatched scenes that extend all the way to Mount Fuji when the skies are clear.

Shibuya Sky, located in the Shibuya Scramble Square building, provides an awe-inspiring urban view from a height of 229 meters above one of Tokyo's liveliest areas. Since its opening in November 2019, it has rapidly become a top spot for both visitors and residents, who are captivated by its unmatched 360-degree perspectives of the vast cityscape.

The Sky Stage, an open-air observation deck, lets visitors truly sense the vibrant energy of the city below. Shibuya Sky isn't just about displaying Tokyo's dynamic beauty; it offers a distinctive view of the city, merging Shibuya's bustling streets with the tranquility of the skies above. It stands as a testament to Tokyo’s constant transformation and is a must-see for anyone wishing to capture the true spirit of the city. For more, check here..

Photo by Leo Okuyama on Unsplash

TeamLab Planets Tokyo in the Toyosu area offers a one-of-a-kind, immersive museum experience aimed at merging the lines between the human body and art. Created by the inventive teamLab collective, this engaging installation allows guests to traverse watery environments, explore mazes made from hanging lamps, and roam through expansive, interactive artworks.

The standout characteristic of the museum is its focus on delivering a comprehensive, immersive experience. Visitors can engage with the exhibits both physically and digitally, creating a dynamic adventure that evolves with their movements. Whether you’re strolling through water-filled spaces that come alive with vibrant projections or interacting with flowers that disintegrate at your touch only to bloom again, teamLab Planets provides a captivating encounter that reshapes the bond between art and its audience. This prompts a profound appreciation for the natural world, showcased through cutting-edge technology. For more, check here.

Photo by George Kedenburg III on Unsplash

Mount Fuji, the tallest peak in Japan and a UNESCO World Heritage site, attracts many hikers and climbers. However, you don't have to scale it to appreciate its beauty. Numerous locations around the mountain offer breathtaking views of its majestic scenery.

Photo by Michael Sum on Unsplash

Kyoto, a renowned city in Japan, is famous for its rich traditional culture and breathtaking temples. With over 2,000 temples and shrines, Kyoto is a top destination for those fascinated by Japanese history and culture. Among the most visited temples are Kiyomizu-dera, Fushimi Inari-taisha, and Kinkaku-ji. Don’t miss Sanjusangendo Temple if you are keen on viewing enshrined Hindu gods.

Photo by Sorasak on Unsplash

The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park stands as a poignant testament to the atomic bomb that devastated the city in 1945. This park honors the bombing's victims and embodies the aspiration for global peace. It's an essential stop for those keen on history and the pursuit of world peace.

Photo by shinano rui on Unsplash

Osaka, Japan's third-biggest metropolis, radiates a lively and unique energy that sets it apart from Tokyo's reserved vibe and Kyoto's rich historical ambiance. One of the city's main attractions is the Osaka Castle, a magnificent 16th-century fortress. This iconic site attracts both tourists and locals, offering breathtaking views of Osaka. Inside the castle, you’ll find a museum where visitors can delve into the rich history of the city.

Famous for its friendly locals and flavorful street eats, the city epitomizes a vibrant, unpretentious culture. Osaka’s dining landscape is renowned, featuring specialties such as takoyaki and okonomiyaki that showcase the city’s passion for rich, delicious cuisine. The Dotonbori district, adorned with bright neon signs and a lively vibe, captures the captivating essence of Osaka. The city's combination of hospitality, humor, and heritage draws visitors to immerse themselves in the distinctive energy of this bustling urban hub.

While you're in Osaka, be sure to check out Abeno Harukas. This iconic landmark showcases the city's cutting-edge urban development and stands as the tallest skyscraper in Osaka, soaring to an impressive 300 meters.

Photo by Jeremy Santana on Unsplash

Tokyo Disneyland, which opened its doors in 1986, is a dream destination for theme park enthusiasts. As one of the globe's most visited theme parks, it provides a distinctive Japanese flair to the beloved Disneyland adventure. With a wide array of rides, shows, and attractions, there's enough to captivate you for days on end. If you still have some energy after your thrilling days at Disneyland, consider checking out DisneySea, which also features attractions tailored for adults.

A fascinating tidbit is that Tokyo Disneyland isn't situated in Tokyo Metropolis but rather in Urayasu City, Chiba Prefecture. Additionally, it holds the distinction of being the first Disneyland constructed outside the United States.

Photo by Roméo A. on Unsplash

The Shibuya Crossing stands as one of the world’s liveliest intersections, making it an essential stop for Tokyo visitors. This iconic location is famed for photo ops and people-watching, offering a distinctive insight into urban Japanese life.

Photo by Timo Volz on Unsplash

Himeji Castle, a breathtaking structure dating back to the 14th century, stands as a testament to history. Remarkably, it's among the rare Japanese castles that have endured the ravages of wars and natural calamities. Today, it proudly holds the status of a UNESCO World Heritage site. The castle is celebrated for its striking white facade and elaborate architectural details.

Photo by Vladimir Haltakov on Unsplash

Nara Deer Park is a top spot for animal enthusiasts. Over 1,000 wild deer wander the park freely, creating a unique and enjoyable experience. Visitors have the opportunity to feed and snap photos with these charming creatures.

Photo by Worachat Sodsri on Unsplash

Kanazawa, a jewel nestled in Japan’s Ishikawa Prefecture, is a city where history and modernity coexist seamlessly. Famous for its meticulously maintained Edo-era neighborhoods, classic teahouses, and the Kenrokuen Garden—celebrated as one of Japan’s three finest gardens—Kanazawa lures travelers into a realm once frequented by samurai, artisans, and geishas.

The city is known for its gold leaf production, craft museums, and lively contemporary art scene, highlighted at the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art. Kanazawa provides a distinctive experience through Japan’s cultural history and ongoing tradition of beauty and craftsmanship, thanks to its rich heritage, delectable cuisine, and peaceful landscapes. For more, check here.

JR Kanazawa Station (© Amit.Tokyo)

Nestled in the Tochigi Prefecture, Nikko is famed for its magnificent Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site dedicated to the legendary shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu. Surrounded by lush forests and stunning mountains, this city offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Aside from its religious significance, Nikko is home to traditional architecture, lively festivals, and relaxing hot springs, all of which provide a window into Japan’s rich historical legacy. This remarkable combination of natural beauty and historical depth makes Nikko a cherished destination for travelers in search of an enriching cultural experience.

Nikko (Amit.Tokyo)

Sapporo, the capital city of Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, transforms into a picturesque winter paradise known for its snowy scenery and lively winter sports scene. Visitors from all over the world come to Sapporo to indulge in top-tier skiing and snowboarding at nearby resorts such as Teine, Moiwa, and the world-renowned Niseko. The city also earns widespread attention for its yearly Sapporo Snow Festival, which features stunning ice and snow sculptures.

Apart from its exhilarating ski slopes, Sapporo is a haven for food lovers, boasting fresh seafood, savory miso ramen, and the renowned Hokkaido crab. Whiskey aficionados will find joy in visiting local breweries to sample some of the world's most celebrated whiskeys. With its blend of exciting winter sports, delectable dishes, and fine beverages (for more, check here), Sapporo guarantees a memorable adventure for every visitor. For more check here and here.

Photo by hyun kim on Unsplash

Read more in Travel