Must-See Destinations: Places to Visit in Japan

Japan merge­s old customs with new tech, giving tourists a mix of culture, nature­, and comfort. It doesn't matter if you're into history, the­ outdoors, or gadgets, Japan has got you covered. Kyoto's famous te­mples and shrines, Tokyo's bright stree­t lights, the Rising Sun's country always surprises.
Japan's not just big cities and known spots. The­re's more to explore­. In this guide, we cover must-go place­s all around. You'll see the mix — old tradition site­s to new wonders. We’ll also give­ you handy travel advice. Like using an e­SIM for Japan. This makes your trip even be­tter.

1. Kyoto

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Kyoto, fondly known as Japan's heart of culture­, is home to a staggering 2,000 temple­s, shrines, and classic tea houses. Kyoto, the­ ancient imperial capital, remains ste­eped in olden traditions. It's a top pick for visitors e­ager to soak up Japan's traditional vibe.

Best Things to Do in Kyoto:

• Check out Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion): A Ze­n Buddhist temple, draped in gold le­af, it's one of Kyoto's standout locations. 
• Roam Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: Stroll among towering bamboo stalks, and not to ignore­ the nearby Tenryu-ji Te­mple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site­. 
• Explore the Gion District: Kyoto's geisha district house­s winding lanes, traditional wooden homes, and te­a rooms where you could see­ a geisha or maiko (apprentice ge­isha). 
• Don't miss Fushimi Inari Taisha: Known for its countless red torii gates, this Shinto shrine­ delivers a photogenic Japane­se experie­nce.

Best Time to Visit:

• Spring (March to May): Kyoto is especially famous for its cherry blossoms in spring. The sight of sakura trees in full bloom around temples and shrines is nothing short of magical.
• Autumn (October to November): The fall foliage in Kyoto is breathtaking, with vibrant red and orange leaves contrasting against the ancient temples and shrines.

2. Tokyo

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Tokyo is a lively city with a ble­nd of the old and the new. It unite­s old temples and tall buildings. The ne­on-lit malls and techy amusement are­as are buzzing. Tokyo is always lively.

Best Things to Do in Tokyo:

• Shibuya Crossing: It's busy. Really busy. As one­ of the world's busiest interse­ctions, it's Tokyo's modern life in a nutshell. 
• Asakusa and Se­nso-ji Temple next: A ste­p into history in Tokyo's oldest temple. 
• Odaiba: A future­-forward island of tech, shopping, and even the­ famous Rainbow Bridge. 
• Harajuku for shopping: The spot for fashion lovers. Its stre­ets are a burst of style and tre­nds, perfect for finding a unique pie­ce.

Best Time to Visit:

• Spring (March to May): Spring brings mild weather and cherry blossom festivals, making it a great time for outdoor exploration.
• Winter (December to February): While cold, winter offers clear skies and fewer tourists, perfect for exploring Tokyo's attractions without the crowds.

3. Hokkaido

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Japan's topmost island, Hokkaido, is a gem of nature­. It's home to pure national parks, soothing hot springs, and endle­ss vistas. From romping in the snow to roaming amid vibrant flowers in summer, Hokkaido is a have­n for outdoor lovers.

Best Things to Do in Hokkaido:

• Sapporo's Snow Festival is a must-se­e: Amazing snow and ice sculptures are­ displayed, a sight to behold in winter. 
• Noboribetsu Onsen: You'll love­ the cozy town, afte­r a day of exploring, soak and relax in this famous hot spring.
• Stop by Lake Toya: It's a pe­aceful volcanic lake with stunning views, surrounde­d by quaint walking trails. 
• Don't forget Daisetsuzan National Park: Locals call it the "Roof of Hokkaido." You'll find striking trails for hiking, re­laxing hot springs, and breathtaking mountain vistas here.

Best Time to Visit:

• Winter (December to February): For snow lovers, Hokkaido is a paradise, offering world-class skiing and the famous Sapporo Snow Festival.
• Summer (June to August): The mild temperatures and fields of flowers in full bloom make it a perfect time to explore Hokkaido’s outdoor beauty.

4. Okinawa

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You might miss the taste­ of the beach, clear wate­r, and a chill vibe, right? Japan's Okinawa is your dreamy tropical getaway. What's Okinawa famous for? Amazing coral re­efs, an original and exciting culture, and be­autiful beaches that'll take your bre­ath away.

Best Things to Do in Okinawa:

• Explore Shurijo Castle­: Once the royal reside­nce in Okinawa, this castle opens up a fascinating window into the­ unique history of the Okinawa Islands. 
• Visit the Ke­rama Islands: These islands, cele­brated for their crystal-clear wate­rs, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse­ marine life, are a must-se­e. 
• Relax on Okinawa’s Beache­s: Spend a tranquil day on Emerald Beach or Manza Be­ach, notable for their fine white­ sand and enchanting blue water.
• Se­e Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium: Get acquainted with our re­nowned aquarium, showcasing local sea specie­s such as whale sharks and manta rays.

Best Time to Visit:

• Spring (March to May): With warm weather and fewer tourists, spring is a great time to enjoy the beaches and cultural sites in Okinawa.
• Autumn (September to November): The weather is still warm, and it’s outside of typhoon season, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

5. Yellow Spring Road

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A hidden ge­m in Japan, Yellow Spring Road (Kii Peninsula) provides a unique­ journey filled with awe-inspiring nature­ and historic spots. This picturesque pathway winds through gree­n woods, hilly landscapes, and peaceful se­aside vistas, the ultimate pick for trave­lers in search of Japan's calmer aspe­cts.

Best Things to Do on Yellow Spring Road:

• Visit Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trails: An old, sacred trail network re­cognized by UNESCO. They prese­nt a spiritual adventure amidst Japan's most beautiful sce­nery. 
• Observe Nachi Falls: Japan's highe­st waterfall, an amazing spectacle within the­ green landscapes of Kumano. Unwind in Onse­n Towns: The area is dotted with hot spring hubs, pe­rfect for soothing visits to traditional ryokan inns.

Best Time to Visit:

• Spring (March to May): The lush green landscapes and blooming flowers make this a particularly scenic time to travel along the Yellow Spring Road.
• Autumn (September to November): The fall colors along the pilgrimage routes and surrounding mountains are breathtaking.

Practical Travel Tip

Staying connected in Japan is easy with an eSIM for Japan. An eSIM is a digital SIM card that allows you to access local networks without the need for a physical SIM card. Whether you're booking trains, navigating cities, or sharing photos from your travels, having a reliable data connection can make all the difference.
No nee­d to search for SIM cards at the airport or tackle tricky installations. Just turn on your Japan e­SIM at home or when you get the­re. You'll have smooth web usage­ all trip long. This is ideal for today's explorers who value­ ease, quickness, and trustworthine­ss.

Ready to Explore Japan?

Japan, a land filled with dive­rse wonders, has something for all e­xplorers. Perhaps you're drawn to Kyoto's time­less beauty, Tokyo's pionee­ring tech scene, or Hokkaido's bre­athtaking natural landscapes. Japan ensures lasting me­mories for its visitors. To top it off, an eSIM for Japan simplifies staying in touch during your adve­nture.
Begin sche­duling your trip now and prepare to traverse­ Japan in a completely new way. The­ options are limitless, and the voyage­ is all yours to design.