50 Must-Visit Places in Japan as Chosen by a World-Famous Rating Guidebook
In Japan, there are so many places that we would like you to visit, or rather, places you MUST visit. Museums, traditional Japanese gardens, shrines, temples, places with lots of nature and even famous brand shops. Whichever you choose, the immense excitement that can only be experienced in Japan awaits you. This time around, we selected carefully and will introduce must-visit places which are like three Michelin star holders!
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41. Korakuen [Okayama Prefecture]
Korakuen is one of the “Three Great Gardens of Japan”. Constructed 300 years ago, it extends over an area of 130,000 square meters. The inside of the gardens is full of a refreshing, lovely atmosphere and in spite of its size, every nook and cranny is carefully maintained. You can also command a splendid view of Okayama castle.
HP: http://okayama-korakuen.jp/english/
Address: 1-5 Kōrakuen, Kita-ku, Okayama-shi, Okayama-ken (Google Map)
42. Itsukushima Shrine [Hiroshima Prefecture]
PIXTA
Itsukushima Shrine is a one-of-a-kind shrine located on the surface of the ocean. The body of the shrine is painted a brilliant vermillion red and with the colors of the landscape, it is one of the finest in Japan. It is a registered UNESCO World Heritage site and areas like the Hirabutai (open stage) and the shrine’s Otorii gate are some of Japan’s most prominent cultural assets. A shinto shrine floating on the sea has enough merit on its own to pay a visit.
HP: http://www.en.itsukushimajinja.jp/index.html
Address: 1-1 Miyajimachō, Hatsukaichi-shi, Hiroshima-ken (Google Map)
43. Mount Misen Viewing Platform [Hiroshima Prefecture]
Mount Misen is located on Hiroshima prefecture’s Itsukushima island. On the summit of Mount Misen is the Mount Misen viewing platform. The veiwing plaform which was renewed recently in 2014, was made from an abundance of wood and has a strong Japanese-style design. You can have a 360 degree view of the abundant nature in Itsukushima. The hike up the mountain to reach the platform is recommended.
HP: http://miyajima-ropeway.info/en/miraculous-scenery/index.html
Address: Mount Misen, Ikutsushima, Hiroshima-ken (Google Map)
44. Dogo Onsen [Ehime Prefecture]
Constructed in the pre-war days, even today the famous “Dogo Onsen” remains a primary representation of Japanese hot springs. You can also have a look at the “Yuushinden” bath used by the Imperial household. You can enjoy the perfect Japanese feeling here.
HP: https://dogo.jp/ (Japanese Only)
Address: 5-6 Dōgoyunomachi, Matsuyama-shi, Ehime-ken (Google Map)
45. Ritsurin Garden [Kagawa Prefecture]
PIXTA
The traditional Japanese gardens span 750,000 square meters at Ritsurin Park. The garden was completed over a period of 100 years by the feudal lords during the Edo period. The cherry blossoms in spring and maple leaves during fall are very popular. In particular, at night the cherry blossoms and maple leaves light up, creating a magical and beautiful atmosphere that leaves a deep impression on everyone.
HP: https://www.my-kagawa.jp/en/ritsurin/
Address: 1 Chome-20-16 Ritsurinchō, Takamatsu-shi, Kagawa-ken (Google Map)
46. Kyuushuu National Museum [Fukuoka Prefecture]
Kyuushuu National Museum is a history-focused establishment that owns many of the valuable cultural assets that help us to know about the origins of Japanese culture. In the interactive exhibition room “Ajippa”, you can experience for yourself not only the culture of Japan, but also the cultures at the core of various other Asian countries.
Address: 4 Chome-7-2 Ishizaka, Dazaifu-shi, Fukuoka-ken (Google Map)
47. Yakushima [Kagoshima Prefecture]
Even now in modernized Japan, you can experience what’s left of great Mother Nature at Yakushima where 90% of the island is made up of the forest. Registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the abundant nature has made it a popular “power spot” where many people gather. It is an island where there is a discovery wherever you walk.
HP: http://yakukan.jp/ (Japanese Only)
Address: Yakushima, Kagoshima-ken (Google Map)
48. Seibu Rindo [Kagoshima Prefecture]
The path situated on the west side of Yakushima, along the coast is called “Seibu Rindo”. There is still much of the forest that has been untouched by human hands and it is a place where the evergreen is beautiful. There are many chances to encounter wild monkeys and deer and you can thoroughly enjoy the nature of Yakushima.
HP: http://www.kagoshima-kankou.com/guide/10739/ (Japanese Only)
Address: Yakushima, Kumage-gun, Kagoshima (Google Map)
49. Hyotan onsen [Oita Prefecture]
At Hyotan Onsen, where you can enjoy 10 different kinds of hot baths, there is a non-stop stream of visitors. Established in 1922, you can experience the history and retro culture of the building. The popular sand baths cover you in warm sand. If you travel to Kyuushuu, be sure to visit this onsen.
HP: http://www.hyotan-onsen.com/english/
Address: 159-2 Kannawa, Beppu-shi, Ōita-ken (Google Map)
50. Kabira Bay [Okinawa Prefecture]
Kabira Bay is one of many popular tourist spots in Okinawa. The transparency and beauty of the water will steal your heart, to say the least. Depeding on the light and the time of day, the color of the water changes which is worth seeing don’t you think? The glass boat activities are recommended. Because the water so clear, you will be able to see the coral and fish up close.
HP: http://ishigaki-navi.net/si_kabirawan.html (Japanese Only)
Address: Ishigaki, Okinawa (Google Map)
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The information in this article is accurate at the time of publication.
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