The Best Places To Visit In Japan

Japan is a country with so much to offer the visiting tourist, and even mentioning your upcoming trip in public will get you dozens of recommendations of places to go, things to see and activities to do. To help you deal with holiday FOMO, we’ve created a list of places worth visiting so that you don’t miss a thing and end up with regrets.

1. Tokyo

The densely populated city of Tokyo is like a country in itself, where you’ll experience the heartbeat of Japanese modern culture. You’ll want to visit the Harajuku District to gawk at the street fashion and cosplaying, but if you prefer natural beauty, then dozens of beautiful cherry blossom trees will keep your camera busy. Other sights to look out for are vending machines on every corner for every item, the largest fish market in the world (Otoro) and dozens of duty free shops and stores.

2. Hakone

Not many people can name it, but almost everyone can identify Hakone from artwork. It’s a geopark, famed for its crystal-clear skies and the snowy peaks of Mount Fiji in the distance. You can visit the area’s many museums and spas, most of which are focused on its natural surroundings. If you’re feeling adventurous, be sure to ask for a black egg. This normal egg gets it colouring from being boiled in iron and sulphur rich spring water, and eating one is said to add seven years to your life.

3. Dotonbori

No holiday is complete without experiencing local street cuisine. You’ll find this in Dotonbori. Your biggest challenge here? Deciding which of the many colourful takeaway joints, restaurants or food carts and stalls to visit first. Get a Japanese twist on a traditional egg breakfast with Takoyaki, which is savoury egg batter that’s stuffed with everything from bonito to octopus and then fried. Also be sure to try out Taiyaki, which is a fish-shaped pastry stuffed with red bean paste or sweet potato.

You can’t really summarise a country in a few hundred words, and on visiting it for yourself you’ll probably find plenty of other hidden gems and destinations to add to your own list. The only thing left to do is book your adventure to find them.