Japan is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Here you will find a unique combination of traditional temples and buildings of the past, with modern achievements in the field of architecture and technology. Tourists, once in this country, can immerse themselves in Japanese history and culture, as well as get a glimpse into the future, with the help of current science. Many historical monuments used for their intended purpose while remaining open to the public. The incredible beauty of Japan can be seen at any time of the year. We present to your attention brief overview sights of Japan that you must see with your own eyes.
1. Hiroshima Peace Memorial
This monument can be classified as one of the tragic sights of Japan. The memorial stands in memory of those whose lives were taken by the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima on August 6, 1945. The Gembaku Dome Memorial, located in the park, is the only building left standing after the explosion. It is a stark reminder of peace in war, the importance of human lives and the innocent victims.
2. Jigokudani Monkey Park
Jigokudani Park is known for its hot areas. The name Jigokudani literally means “Valley of Hell”. This name was assigned to the park because of the steam and boiling water that flows from the frozen ground, surrounded by steep cliffs and cold forests. The park is also famous for its large population of wild Japanese macaques, which travel to the valley in winter when snow covers the park. Monkeys descend from steep cliffs and from the forest to bask at warm springs, but return back in the evening. Thousands of tourists gather to see this.
3. Kiyomizu-dera
Kiyomizu-dera is a Buddhist temple located in Eastern Kyoto, founded in 778. The temple is in complete harmony with nature. Not a single nail was used during the construction of the temple. Located nearby beautiful waterfalls that flow into deep rivers, into which they sometimes jump from a height local residents(survival rate 85.4%). Guests can enjoy the shrines and talismans without risking their lives.
4. Himeji Castle
Himeji Castle is considered the finest existing example of Japanese castle architecture and is Japan's most visited architectural landmark. It was fortified against enemies during the feudal era, and was added to and reconstructed many times over the centuries, so it reflects different periods of design. This castle survived the bombings of World War II.
5. Great Buddha Kamakura
The Great Buddha of Kamakura is a colossal cultural monument. The bronze Buddha is 13 meters tall and weighs 93 tons. The statue dates back to 1252. It was originally housed in a small wooden temple of the Great Buddha, but now stands in an open area as the original site was washed away by the 15th century tsunami.
6. Todaiji Temple
Todaiji Temple is a true feat of engineering. Not only is it the largest wooden building in the world, this temple is also home to the largest bronze Buddha statue in the world. It is one of the most famous temples in Asia.
7. Tokyo Tower
Tokyo Tower is a testament to the development of technology in modern life. Tokyo Tower is designed similar to the Eiffel Tower. Visitors can climb the tower and see panoramic view Tokyo and surrounding areas, as well as visit shops and restaurants. This is one of Japan's most modern landmarks.
8. Imperial Palace in Tokyo
The Imperial Palace in Tokyo functions as a command center and museum for showcasing Japanese art and history. The palace is located on the ruins of an old castle, which was destroyed by fire. The new palace is surrounded by traditional Japanese gardens and has many halls for entertaining guests.
9. Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji is the most high mountain in Japan its height is 3776 meters. The exceptionally symmetrical volcano cone is a well-known symbol of Japan and is often depicted in paintings or photographs. Every year 200,000 people climb Mount Fuji. The ascent can take three to eight hours, and the descent can take two to five hours.
10. Golden Pavilion
Kinkaku-ji or Temple of the Golden Pavilion is the most popular tourist attraction in Japan and Kyoto. The pavilion was built at the end of the 14th century. Unfortunately, the pavilion was burned down in 1950 by a young monk who went mad. Five years later it was restored as an exact replica of the original. The pavilion is covered with gold leaf and is reflected very beautifully in the pond. 
The attractions of Japan don't end there. You will find descriptions of many others interesting places in the section dedicated to the country, which is constantly updated with new materials.
Japan is a country that carefully and carefully preserves and cherishes its traditions and culture. Thousands of tourists come to see Japanese historical and architectural values. There is something magical about this calm, balanced culture. Take only the tea ceremony, a favorite among travelers. But it doesn't include all of Japan.
Japanese technology will surprise any European. They are building in cities tall skyscrapers and TV towers. Tokyo TV Tower is the tallest in the world. The Toyota Museum finds a lot of fans not only among motorists. And Tokyo Disneyland is considered one of the best parks in the world.
Japan is rich in temples of amazing beauty. The Todai-ji Temple, Kiyomizu-dera, Atsuta, and the Kinkaku-ji Golden Pavilion look incredible. Despite the fires and destruction, they were rebuilt and look fantastic. They offer a deep insight into Japanese culture and religion.
In addition to the famous Fuji, which captivates with its beauty and grandeur, Japan has beautiful waterfalls, gardens, national parks and islands. Colorful underwater world and warm water attracts to Ishigaki Island. Kegon Falls surprises with its power. Arashiyama radiates tranquility, and Happo-en Garden makes you want to walk around all the time. You can always discover Japan. It is inexhaustible. Like the color of sakura, it is constantly renewed, surprising you with a new beautiful appearance.
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What to see in Japan?
The most interesting and beautiful places, photographs and brief description.
Fuji is the calling card of Japan. Its height is 3776 meters. For the Japanese this place is sacred, and for tourists it is incredibly attractive. The volcano has a surprisingly symmetrical cone. Most beautiful view on it in winter or early spring. There are 5 volcanic lakes near Fuji. Climbing the mountain is carried out in the summer. Guides and developed infrastructure help you conquer Fuji.
This is the most sacred place in Japan. Three million visitors come here every year. Todai-ji Temple has shrunk in size since the fires, but is still the largest wooden structure in the world. It was built in 745. In the middle of the temple there is a 15-meter tall Buddha statue. Almost all the reserves of bronze were used to make it. Deer, beloved by tourists, also live on the temple grounds.
The grove was created by the monk Muso Soseki. It is located in the Kyoto area. Everything in the park has deep implications. It’s not for nothing that they say that here you can understand the meaning of life. There are paths running through Arashiyama. You can walk around the park in 15 minutes, but you want to walk there for hours. Bamboo stems make special sounds. This is incredible forest music. The height of the trees reaches 40 meters.
Himeji is called the White Heron Castle. Its walls are snow-white, and its lines and features are graceful, like those of a bird. During its existence, the castle did not suffer from fires or enemy raids. And if anyone tried to capture the castle, they would get confused in the labyrinths of gardens and rooms. The entire complex consists of 83 buildings. Sakura blossoms around them, which makes the castle even more beautiful. It is not surprising that he was repeatedly featured in films.
It is one of Tokyo's 23 special districts. Once it was a village, then a small town. Now it is part of the capital and the center nightlife, entertainment, fashion and shopping. Also here are some of the most tall skyscrapers cities, Microsoft and Coca-Cola offices. The Hachiko monument is considered the center of the area. In addition to boutiques and entertainment centers, there are museums and temples.
This is a mountain in Wakayama Prefecture that is home to many temples and Shingon Buddhist schools. The first temple was founded in 819. Today the temples welcome tourists. The mountain is very picturesque and the place is peaceful. Travelers can feel like they are part of the life of the monks. There is also a beautiful cemetery on the mountain, which is illuminated at night. You can go up the mountain by tram.
This is one of the shrines in Kumano. It is located near the Katsuura hot spring. Numerous paths lead to the temple. They are surrounded by huge trees and stretch for 600 meters. One of the main beauties of Kumano Nachi Taisha is the most high waterfall in Japan. It is 113 meters high and has religious significance for the Japanese. Its power and beauty surprise even experienced travelers.
This main island from the Yaeyama Islands. It is home to Mount Omote-dake, whose height is 526 meters. Ishigaki is famous for its coral reefs. You can swim in the sea near the island all year round, the water there is warm. Diving is very popular here. There are also very beautiful Hirakubo and Ugan caves. Tourists are taken by boat to neighboring islands.
Kotoku-in is a temple that is famous for its bronze Buddha statue. Its height is 13.5 meters and its age is more than eight centuries. In the original version, the statue was made of wood and reached 24 meters in height. But it was destroyed by a storm in 1247. Then in 1252 a new statue began to be erected. After 12 years, a creation appeared that withstood all the elements and outlived the temple in which it stood.
Until 8:15 a.m. on August 6, 1945, the Genbaku Dome was the Hiroshima Exhibition Center. After the explosion of an atomic bomb that hit the building, all visitors died. The dome was located 160 meters from the epicenter of the explosion. He burned out, but survived. It was strengthened, and it became the main exhibit demonstrating the consequences of an atomic explosion and the inadmissibility of the use of atomic weapons.
Happo-en Garden is a green island in the middle of a paved city. Its beauty has been noted by the government, and tourists are increasingly adding it to their itinerary. In the garden you can attend a real tea ceremony. Afterwards, you can walk along the path passing through the valley and surrounded by bonsai trees, admire the fish in the pond or visit the temple. There are two of them here and weddings are regularly held there.
The park is located on the island of Honshu and lies in the Yokoyu Valley at an altitude of 850 meters. It attracts tourists because about 160 macaques live there. There is snow in the park for a third of the year. But the favorite place of monkeys is water thermal springs. Whole groups of them bask in the warm water. Monkeys have their own rules and hierarchy. Someone is warming up, someone is carrying food. They feed on plants.
The temple is located on Mount Otowa in Kyoto. It is considered a jewel among the shrines of the area. It was built in 798. According to legend, the monk Entin noticed a stream and, wanting to find its beginning, climbed into the mountains. At the top he found a clearing with amazing waterfall. After a prophetic dream, the monk founded a temple. Over time, a temple complex was built here. The water here is considered sacred, and the view of Kyoto from the temple is stunning.
Tokyo Sky Tree is the tallest tv tower in the world. Located in Tokyo, in the Sumida area. Its height is 634 meters. The only building in the world that is taller is the Burj Khalifa. The tower has a cafe and souvenir shops, two observation decks and a restaurant, which offers a breathtaking view of the city. At the base of the tower is a shopping and entertainment center.
This is a structure covered with sheets of gold. The pavilion was built by Yoshimitsu in 1397, when he was tired of ruling. Located near the sanctuary beautiful lake and a garden considered one of the most beautiful in the country. There are many paths, streams and ponds. Guests are received on the first floor of the pavilion; on the second floor there is an exhibition of paintings. On the third, religious ceremonies are held.
The shrine is located on Miyajima Island. The torii gate, which is located on its territory, is considered one of the symbols of Japan. The view of them belongs to the “Three Famous Landscapes of Japan”. Their height is 16 meters. They are built on stilts in the water. You can only reach the gate during low tide. Having reached them, you need to put a coin into the crack in the tree and make a wish.
These are very colorful villages that are perfectly preserved and demonstrate the history and life of the Japanese. Climate and geographical location It's harsh here. The villages are located in a mountainous region on the island of Honshu. In winter, the island was often completely cut off from civilization. This formed a special way of life for the inhabitants. There is a special development here architectural style, which is designed to protect houses from snow.
The famous commander built this castle in the 16th century. Its area is one square kilometer. It has five above-ground floors and three underground. The walls of the castle are decorated with gold leaf. The building itself is located on a stone embankment for protection from enemies. Some boulders reach six meters in height. Co observation deck main tower The castle offers an amazing view of the city.
The national park is located in the central part of the island of Honshu. It is already more than 50 years old, and its area is 17.4 thousand hectares. Maple and coniferous forests and bamboo grow in it. This area is called the Japanese Alps. There are meadows, amazing mountain lakes and even active volcano. The inhabitants of the park are typical inhabitants of Japanese forests.
The temple was founded about 1,900 years ago, making it one of the oldest in Japan. It contains one of the three sacred imperial relics - the sword Kusanagi no Mitsurugi. The temple halls house about 3,000 historical values. Every June, a Japanese martial art competition is held at Atsuta Shrine. 8 million people come here to honor the sun goddess Amaterasu.
This is the residence of the Emperor and Imperial Palace. It is located in the very center of Tokyo. The area of the entire palace complex is 7.5 square meters. km. During its existence, the palace burned and was destroyed. Now it consists of one underground and two above-ground floors. At any time, tourists can only enter East Park. You can only enter the palace twice a year.
The waterfall is located in national park Nikko. Its height is 101 meters. It is considered one of the most beautiful in Japan. At its foot a tea house was built and there is a ski lift. There are 12 more streams flowing along the sides of the waterfall. You can view the waterfall from different angles. Myself national park combined pristine nature and modern comfort.
IN entertainment center Palette Town houses Japan's main automobile museum. This amazing place, where high-tech shows take place and the most interesting cars are presented. In six halls, both cars that have ever been produced and projects of future ones are shown. Among them there are rare cars and cars similar to lunar rovers. In the Ride One hall you can test drive any car, provided you have a license.
Located in the city of Urayasu Tokyo Disneyland. This is the first Disney park built outside the United States. It is part of the entire Disney resort. It opened on April 15, 1938. The park area is 465,000 m². It is divided into 7 thematic zones. The park has 47 attractions. There are also shops, cafes, hotels. Disneyland is open all year round and is the third most popular park in the world.
Hanami is a cherry blossom festival where people admire the flowers. It takes place in the spring. Then the whole country is transformed. Parks, temples and castles attract even more tourists. For the Japanese themselves, this is an amazing phenomenon, peaceful and joyful. In the evenings, the trees are beautifully illuminated, so you can admire them not only during the day. A very popular activity is to have picnics under the cherry blossoms.
Japan consists of 6,852 islands located in Pacific Ocean, with 43 different prefectures. There is so much to do and see in Japan that you probably won't be able to do it all in one go. If you're planning a trip to the land of the rising sun, be sure to consider visiting these ten tourist attractions while you're there.
10. Hotels with hot springs
If you're looking for a relaxing vacation, you might want to consider booking a room at the Onsen Ryokan, which is a hot spring hotel. The Japanese islands are located on a volcanic belt, so there are more than 27,000 hot springs throughout the country, 3,085 of which are tourist accommodation.
Japanese hot springs are known for their healing properties. Some even claim that water cleanses the skin and reverses aging. Hotels located at onsen hot springs range from modern to traditional, so you can choose the location to suit your tastes. No matter where you go in Japan, you're almost guaranteed to find an onsen ryokan nearby.
Before you go there, keep in mind that it is traditional to enter hot spring you need to be completely naked, so if you are not embarrassed by the need to appear in what your mother gave birth to in front of strangers, feel free to go... Or just pay an additional amount to reserve a separate source for yourself.
9. Fuji
If you love nature, consider climbing the 3,776 meter high mountain called Fuji. The trails are only open from July to September due to the extreme cold at the top of the mountain. If you're only there for one day, you can go up to the 5th station, which is a 12-hour climb away.
If you want to feel the spirit of adventure, you can book accommodation near the top of the mountain so you can watch the sunrise with other climbers. Just keep in mind that the climb to the top of Fuji takes 24 hours. If you're not ready to trek to the top, you can photograph the mountain from afar. One of the most popular places For photographing Fuji, go to Gotemba Peace Park in Gotemba, which is open all year round.
8. DisneySea Amusement Park in Tokyo
Tokyo is one of the many cities in the world that has its own theme park Disneyland. In 2001, a completely new theme park called Tokyo DisneySea opened in Tokyo. As the name suggests, the park has an aquatic theme and has many water attractions, making it an ideal summer destination. It features many of the Disney films such as The Little Mermaid, Finding Nemo and 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, as well as some remake favorites such as Tower of Terror.
There's also an entire area dedicated to Aladdin called the Arabian Coast, where you'll feel like you're actually walking through the city of Agrabah. Aside from the attractions, the park's tourist accommodations are incredibly detailed, such as Hotel Miracosta, which features a Mediterranean haven. Many people call Tokyo DisneySea "the best theme park in the world," but you'll have to visit it in person to judge for yourself.
7. Akihabara and Harajuku
If you spend a lot of time in Tokyo, Akihabara and Harajuku are the two main shopping areas in the city. Akihabara is an anime fans dream. The streets are lined with huge shops filled with costumes, anime films, manga comics and electronics. It is common to see fans roaming the streets dressed in cosplay costumes.
For those of you who are not interested in anime, Harajuku is a fashion district and the perfect place to buy clothes that you can't find in your city.
There are shops with high-quality brands, as well as modest shops selling second-hand clothes and accessories. Both of these areas of Tokyo offer plenty of entertainment, such as concert performances and themed cafes. To top it all off, many stores allow you to shop tax free.
6. Tokyo Tower and SkyTree
One of Japan's most famous tourist attractions is the Tokyo Tower, which was built in the 1950s as an antenna for broadcasting television broadcasts. Its design was inspired by the Eiffel Tower in France and it even lights up at night, just like the original. Every day tourists climb the tower to the top observation deck. However, Tokyo Tower is far from the most high point in the city.
The most high tower called SkyTree. Both towers offer incredible bird's eye views of Tokyo, and the SkyTree even has its own shopping mall and an aquarium. Be aware that tickets for both of these buildings can be expensive and the lines can be very long. If you want to enjoy a great view of Tokyo Tower without having to wait in line, try visiting Shiba Park.
5. Matsumoto Castle
Shopping and amusement parks can be fun, but perhaps some of you love history and crave something more traditional. Matsumoto Castle is one of the last remaining castles in Japan. It was built in the 1500s and served as a refuge for 23 different feudal lords during its existence.
Spring is one of the most popular times of year to visit the castle because of the cherry blossoms that surround the estate. The interior of the castle has been converted into a museum, displaying weapons used in the battles that were fought within the castle walls.
4. Island of cats
If you love cats, you should seriously consider taking a ferry to a small Japanese island called Tashirojima. The island is only 1.9 km long and over the past few decades the population has dropped from around 1,000 people to just 85. The dominant species found on the island are more than 100 stray cats. Obviously, this is why it got the name “Cat Island”.
Locals believe that cats bring good luck, to such an extent that there is even a cat temple here. Everyone on the island has a collective responsibility for cats, so it's no surprise that the island has a very strict no-dog policy.
3. Seasonal festivals
If you come to Tokyo in spring or summer, be sure to take a stroll through Ueno Park. In April, over 1,000 cherry trees bloom in one week with their flowers in full bloom. Enjoying flowers is a thousand-year-old tradition called Hanami, where Japanese people go outside to smell the cherry blossoms.
If you get hungry after a long walk, there are plenty of vendors selling food and drinks, or you can pack a lunch and have a picnic. During the summer, you can go to festivals where people wear the traditional Japanese kimono called a yukata. There are games, live performances, souvenirs sold and plenty of food.
2. Ghibli Museum
If you grew up watching animated films directed by Hayao Miyazaki, such as Spirited Away or My Neighbor Totoro, you should visit the Studio Ghibli Museum. The museum is located in the beautiful Tokyo Inokashira Park. Miyazaki specifically designed the museum to encourage visitors to interact with nature.
There are places inside and outside the museum where kids can hang out, and adult fans will appreciate a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the films they grew up watching. Keep in mind that this museum is so popular that you need to purchase tickets at least a month in advance.
1. Fushimi Inrai
One of the most iconic places One of the best places to visit in Japan is the Fushimi Inari Shrine in Southern Kyoto. In the Shinto religion, Inari is the god of rice, and he is said to have used foxes as his messengers. The most stunning and iconic part of Fushimi Inari is the thousands of red torii ritual gates that lead visitors to the top of Mount Inari.
It will take about 2 to 3 hours to go through all the gates, but there are plenty of places to stop and admire the different fox statues, or grab something to eat. If you make it to the top of the mountain, you will be rewarded with stunning views of Kyoto that you won't see anywhere else.
