Top 10 Cities in Japan You Shouldn't Miss
Japan is home to some of the world’s most vibrant and fascinating destinations, each offering a unique blend of tradition and modern life. From bustling metropolises filled with neon lights to historic towns that preserve centuries-old culture, Japanese cities captivate travellers with their diversity and charm. In this guide, we highlight the top 10 cities in Japan you should visit, exploring popular spots as well as hidden gems. Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning for a deeper journey, these are the best cities to visit in Japan for an unforgettable experience.
Last updated: 15.09.2025
Last updated: 15.09.2025
Tokyo
Tokyo is a city that never stops evolving, offering an endless mix of ancient temples, futuristic skyscrapers, and quirky neighbourhoods. Visitors can explore the serene Meiji Shrine, shop in the fashion-forward district of Harajuku, or marvel at the panoramic views from Tokyo Skytree.
Food lovers will find everything from Michelin-starred sushi restaurants to bustling street food stalls. Tokyo also serves as the perfect gateway for day trips to Mount Fuji, Nikko, or Kamakura, making it a must-visit on any itinerary.
Food lovers will find everything from Michelin-starred sushi restaurants to bustling street food stalls. Tokyo also serves as the perfect gateway for day trips to Mount Fuji, Nikko, or Kamakura, making it a must-visit on any itinerary.
Kyoto
Known as the cultural heart of Japan, Kyoto is famous for its stunning temples, peaceful gardens, and traditional tea houses. Walking through districts like Gion, where geisha culture still thrives, feels like stepping back in time. Iconic sites such as Fushimi Inari Taisha with its thousands of red torii gates, and the Golden Pavilion, are unforgettable highlights.
Beyond the landmarks, Kyoto offers quiet corners where visitors can enjoy seasonal beauty, from spring cherry blossoms to fiery autumn leaves. Many travellers choose to arrive from Tokyo to Kyoto by train, enjoying the speed and comfort of the Shinkansen before beginning their exploration of this historic city.
Beyond the landmarks, Kyoto offers quiet corners where visitors can enjoy seasonal beauty, from spring cherry blossoms to fiery autumn leaves. Many travellers choose to arrive from Tokyo to Kyoto by train, enjoying the speed and comfort of the Shinkansen before beginning their exploration of this historic city.
Osaka
Often called the “kitchen of Japan,” Osaka is beloved for its lively food scene and friendly atmosphere. Dotonbori’s neon signs and street food stalls create an energetic backdrop, perfect for tasting takoyaki or okonomiyaki. The city also boasts historic attractions like Osaka Castle and the tranquil Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine.
Families will enjoy Universal Studios Japan, while nightlife seekers can find endless entertainment in Namba. Thanks to excellent rail connections, it is easy to continue your journey from nearby Kyoto to Osaka by train, making the two cities a perfect combination on any itinerary.
Hiroshima
Hiroshima is a city of resilience, blending a poignant history with vibrant modern life. The Peace Memorial Park and Museum offer a moving reminder of the past, while Hiroshima Castle and Shukkeien Garden show the city’s enduring beauty.
Just a short ferry ride away, Miyajima Island invites visitors to see the iconic “floating” torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine. Hiroshima’s cuisine, particularly its unique style of okonomiyaki, adds to the experience, making the city both inspiring and welcoming.
Just a short ferry ride away, Miyajima Island invites visitors to see the iconic “floating” torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine. Hiroshima’s cuisine, particularly its unique style of okonomiyaki, adds to the experience, making the city both inspiring and welcoming.
Sapporo
Located on the northern island of Hokkaido, Sapporo is best known for its winter festivities and natural surroundings. The Sapporo Snow Festival transforms the city each February with dazzling ice sculptures, attracting visitors from around the globe.
Beyond winter, the city shines with attractions like Odori Park, the historic Sapporo Beer Museum, and nearby mountains perfect for hiking. Local specialties, including miso ramen and fresh seafood, reflect the rich bounty of Hokkaido. Sapporo’s charm lies in its mix of outdoor adventure and city life.
Beyond winter, the city shines with attractions like Odori Park, the historic Sapporo Beer Museum, and nearby mountains perfect for hiking. Local specialties, including miso ramen and fresh seafood, reflect the rich bounty of Hokkaido. Sapporo’s charm lies in its mix of outdoor adventure and city life.
Nara
Nara, once Japan’s first permanent capital, is a city steeped in history and spirituality. Its most famous attraction, Todai-ji Temple, houses a massive bronze Buddha that leaves a lasting impression on all who visit. The city is also known for Nara Park, where hundreds of freely roaming deer interact with visitors.
Other highlights include Kasuga Taisha Shrine and traditional streets lined with preserved architecture. Nara’s calm and cultural richness make it a rewarding stop for those seeking authentic heritage.
Other highlights include Kasuga Taisha Shrine and traditional streets lined with preserved architecture. Nara’s calm and cultural richness make it a rewarding stop for those seeking authentic heritage.
Yokohama
Just south of Tokyo, Yokohama offers a more relaxed pace while still being one of Japan’s largest urban centres. Its vibrant Chinatown is one of the largest in the world, brimming with delicious food and colourful streets that come alive especially at night. The Minato Mirai district combines modern attractions such as Landmark Tower and Cosmo World with scenic waterfront views, perfect for a stroll at sunset.
For art lovers, the Cup Noodles Museum and Sankeien Garden add unique cultural touches that reflect the city’s creative spirit. The Red Brick Warehouse district also draws visitors with its mix of historic architecture, boutique shops, and seasonal events by the waterfront. With its lively harbour and open atmosphere, Yokohama’s proximity to Tokyo makes it a smooth and rewarding addition to any journey across the country.
Kanazawa
Kanazawa charms visitors with its well-preserved Edo-period districts and exquisite gardens. Kenrokuen Garden, often considered one of Japan’s most beautiful, is especially stunning in spring and winter.
The city’s Nagamachi samurai district and Higashi Chaya geisha quarter offer glimpses into the past. Kanazawa is also known for its craftsmanship, particularly gold leaf art, which can be found throughout the city. Combining history, art, and gastronomy, Kanazawa provides a balanced and authentic travel experience.
The city’s Nagamachi samurai district and Higashi Chaya geisha quarter offer glimpses into the past. Kanazawa is also known for its craftsmanship, particularly gold leaf art, which can be found throughout the city. Combining history, art, and gastronomy, Kanazawa provides a balanced and authentic travel experience.
Fukuoka
Fukuoka is a dynamic city on Kyushu Island, blending a laid-back coastal atmosphere with vibrant culture. It is famous for its food stalls, or yatai, serving local favourites like Hakata ramen. Shoppers will enjoy Canal City, a massive entertainment and retail complex, while history enthusiasts can explore Fukuoka Castle ruins and nearby temples.
With beautiful beaches and easy access to nature, the city offers a balance of relaxation and activity. Fukuoka’s welcoming vibe makes it a delightful stop for travellers.
With beautiful beaches and easy access to nature, the city offers a balance of relaxation and activity. Fukuoka’s welcoming vibe makes it a delightful stop for travellers.
Nagasaki
Nagasaki has a unique history shaped by international influence, as it was one of the few Japanese cities open to foreign trade during the Edo period. This heritage is visible in sites like Dejima, Glover Garden, and the city’s vibrant churches.
The Nagasaki Peace Park honours the city’s wartime history, while Mount Inasa provides spectacular night views. Local cuisine, such as champon noodles, reflects a blend of cultures.
Nagasaki’s mix of history, culture, and scenic beauty leaves visitors with lasting memories.
Exploring Japan through its cities offers a journey filled with contrasts, from the fast-paced streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto and the cultural treasures of smaller towns like Kanazawa and Nara. Each destination provides its own flavour, history, and atmosphere, ensuring that every traveller can find something meaningful. By including these ten remarkable places while vacationing in Japan, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of its diversity and discover why it remains one of the most captivating destinations in Asia.