UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Book Attractions in Advance

Skip the lines at Japan's top attractions by booking tickets in advance through Tiqets. Get instant confirmation and mobile tickets for museums, temples, and experiences across Japan.

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Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto

Visit iconic temples like Kinkaku-ji and Kiyomizu-dera, showcasing Zen gardens and wooden architecture.

Especially serene during cherry blossom season, perfect for cultural immersion and tea ceremonies.

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Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara

Discover Todai-ji Temple with its massive Buddha statue and roaming deer in Nara Park.

A blend of ancient Shinto shrines and natural beauty that captivates history enthusiasts.

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Hiroshima Peace Memorial

Reflect at the Genbaku Dome and Peace Park, symbols of resilience and anti-war messages.

Museums and memorials create a poignant hub for understanding modern Japanese history.

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Itsukushima Shrine

Admire the floating torii gate on Miyajima Island amid tidal waters and forested hills.

Combining Shinto traditions with stunning natural scenery in a dynamic coastal setting.

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Buddhist Monuments in the Horyu-ji Area

Uncover ancient wooden pagodas and statues highlighting Japan's early Buddhist heritage.

Less crowded, offering a peaceful retreat for architectural and spiritual exploration.

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Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range

Follow the Kumano Kodo trails to ancient shrines and hot springs in forested mountains.

Fascinating for hikers interested in spiritual journeys and natural hot springs.

Natural Wonders & Outdoor Adventures

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Mount Fuji

Hike the iconic volcano with trails to the summit, ideal for adventure seekers and photographers.

Perfect for multi-day climbs with stunning views and onsen recovery at the base.

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Yakushima Island

Explore ancient cedar forests and mossy trails, inspiring Studio Ghibli's landscapes.

Family-friendly hikes with waterfalls and pristine beaches in subtropical climate.

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Japanese Alps

Trek through rugged peaks and alpine lakes via well-marked paths, attracting mountaineers.

Serene spot for camping and wildlife viewing with diverse highland ecosystems.

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Nikko National Park

Wander through autumn foliage and waterfalls near Toshogu Shrine, perfect for easy day hikes.

This forested escape offers quick nature breaks with historical trails and lakes.

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Shiretoko National Park, Hokkaido

Kayak along coastal cliffs with brown bears and hot springs, ideal for wildlife tours.

Hidden gem for scenic cruises and forest walks in a remote wilderness.

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Okinawa Beaches

Discover turquoise waters and coral reefs with snorkeling spots and white sands.

Tropical paradise connecting to Japan's southern island culture and marine adventures.

Japan by Region

🏙️ Kanto (Tokyo Area)

  • Best For: Urban energy, modern tech, and pop culture with neon-lit streets and skyscrapers.
  • Key Destinations: Tokyo, Yokohama, and Nikko for city vibes and day-trip escapes.
  • Activities: Shibuya crossings, temple visits, ramen tours, and shopping in Akihabara.
  • Best Time: Spring for cherry blossoms (March-April) and autumn for foliage (Oct-Nov), with mild 10-20°C weather.
  • Getting There: Well-connected by Shinkansen from other regions, with private transfers available via GetTransfer.

🌸 Kansai (Kyoto Area)

  • Best For: Traditional culture, ancient temples, and food scenes as Japan's historical heart.
  • Key Destinations: Kyoto for geisha districts, nearby Nara and Osaka for urban contrasts.
  • Activities: Tea ceremonies, kaiseki dining, castle explorations, and street food markets.
  • Best Time: Year-round, but spring (March-May) for sakura and summer festivals (July-Aug).
  • Getting There: Kansai Airport is the main hub - compare flights on Aviasales for best deals.

❄️ Hokkaido (North)

  • Best For: Outdoor pursuits and fresh seafood, featuring volcanic landscapes and hot springs.
  • Key Destinations: Sapporo, Furano, and Shiretoko for nature and winter sports.
  • Activities: Skiing, lavender field hikes, bear watching, and onsen soaking in snowy settings.
  • Best Time: Summer for wildflowers (June-Aug) and winter for snow festivals (Dec-Feb), -5-25°C.
  • Getting There: Rent a car for flexibility in exploring remote parks and rural areas.

🌺 Kyushu (South)

  • Best For: Volcanic adventures and hot springs with a relaxed southern vibe.
  • Key Destinations: Fukuoka, Beppu, and Nagasaki for thermal baths and coastal charm.
  • Activities: Onsen hopping, volcano hikes, ramen tastings, and beach relaxation.
  • Best Time: Spring and autumn (March-May, Sept-Nov) for mild weather, 15-25°C and cherry blossoms.
  • Getting There: Direct Shinkansen from Tokyo or ferries from mainland ports for island exploration.

Sample Japan Itineraries

🚀 7-Day Japan Highlights

Days 1-2: Tokyo

Arrive in Tokyo, explore Shibuya and Asakusa Temple, visit modern districts like Akihabara, and sample street food.

Days 3-4: Kyoto & Nara

Shinkansen to Kyoto for golden pavilion tours and geisha walks, then day trip to Nara for deer park and ancient temples.

Days 5-6: Hiroshima & Miyajima

Travel to Hiroshima for Peace Memorial visits, with a ferry to Miyajima's floating shrine and oyster dining.

Day 7: Return to Tokyo

Final day in Tokyo for shopping in Ginza, last-minute sushi, and departure, ensuring time for urban exploration.

🏞️ 10-Day Adventure Explorer

Days 1-2: Tokyo Immersion

Tokyo city tour covering Senso-ji, Tokyo Tower, teamLab exhibits, and local izakaya food experiences.

Days 3-4: Kyoto & Nara

Kyoto for historic sites including bamboo groves and tea ceremonies, then Nara for temple visits and wildlife encounters.

Days 5-6: Hiroshima & Mount Fuji

Hiroshima for memorials and Miyajima hikes, then train to Fuji area for lake views and onsen preparation.

Days 7-8: Hakone Activities

Full outdoor adventure with cable car rides, volcano exploration, and hot spring soaks in Hakone's scenic valleys.

Days 9-10: Osaka & Return

Osaka for castle tours, street food, and neon lights before returning to Tokyo for final experiences.

🏙️ 14-Day Complete Japan

Days 1-3: Tokyo Deep Dive

Comprehensive Tokyo exploration including markets, museums, sumo stables, and nightlife districts.

Days 4-6: Kansai Circuit

Kyoto for temples and gardens, Nara for ancient sites, Osaka for modern food and castle adventures.

Days 7-9: Hiroshima & Kyushu

Hiroshima memorials, then ferry to Kyushu for Beppu onsen and volcanic hikes in Aso Caldera.

Days 10-12: Hokkaido Escape

Fly to Sapporo for snow activities or lavender fields, Shiretoko for wildlife cruises and nature trails.

Days 13-14: Fuji & Tokyo Finale

Mount Fuji hikes and lakes, final Tokyo shopping and cultural farewells before departure.

Top Activities & Experiences

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Tea Ceremony Experiences

Participate in traditional chanoyu rituals in Kyoto's teahouses for mindful cultural insights.

Available year-round with guided sessions offering matcha preparation and zen philosophy.

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Onsen Hot Spring Soaking

Relax in geothermal baths across Hakone and Beppu, embracing Japan's wellness traditions.

Learn etiquette from ryokan stays and expert guides in volcanic landscapes.

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Sushi Making Workshops

Create fresh nigiri and rolls in Tokyo's markets with chef instruction on knife skills.

Hands-on classes covering seafood sourcing and authentic Japanese culinary techniques.

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Sumo Watching & Tours

Attend tournaments in Tokyo or visit stables for training sessions and wrestler interactions.

Popular events in spring and autumn with cultural insights into this ancient sport.

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Cherry Blossom Viewing

Picnic under sakura in parks like Ueno, celebrating hanami with seasonal festivals.

Works by poets and artists with guided walks highlighting Japan's floral traditions.

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Mount Fuji Hiking

Trek seasonal trails to the summit with guided groups for panoramic alpine views.

Many routes offer overnight stays at mountain huts for immersive high-altitude experiences.

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