From panoramic views in untouched countryside to bustling, busy cities full of lights, a trip to Japan will open your eyes to new experiences. The Japanese culture is one of efficiency, tradition and reverence.
Most people know about the famous Japanese cherry blossoms, beginning in March in southern Japan and continuing through May in the North. But you might wonder what else there is to see and do in Japan — so let’s explore, beginning with some of the key cities and destinations to include on your trip to Japan, followed by unique experiences to seek out, authentic Japanese food to taste and some travel phrases that will smooth your visit.
Where to go in Japan
Whether you are seeking out the most beautiful places to see in Japan, want to relax in hot springs or learn the delicate skills of calligraphy, the easily accessible big cities are a central starting point for side trips, day trips and seeing Japan at your ideal pace.
Toyko
Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is a great starting point for your trip. When in Tokyo you will notice modern technology and ultra-efficiency, alongside the slower-paced honoured traditions, blended naturally in this unique city.
Tokyo is home to the busiest intersection in the world, the Shibuya Crossing — an ideal place for travellers to enjoy lunch at a local cafe while people-watching. From the time-honoured Shinto shrine, Meiji Jingu, to interactive art displays, there’s plenty to see and do.
A hundred kilometres southwest of Tokyo is Mount Fuji, it is well worth the trip to see this active volcano. The tallest mountain in Japan, it stands at 3,776m. Energetic travellers can hike to the summit of this mountain peak, one of Japan’s three sacred mountains.
Shibuya Crossing Tokyo, Japan by Dennis Bunnik
Beppu
Beppu, Japan by Adobe Stock
Beppu is home to eight different hot spring areas, generating steam you can see billowing throughout the city. In the Kannawa District of Beppu, also known as the “Hells of Beppu”, the springs are salty and at night the city glows with an orange light as steam filters the street lights.
In and around Beppu there are markets, art and scenic views — you can visit a fragrance museum, try a traditional sand bath, visit Shidakako Lake or climb Mount Tsurami.
Osaka
Himeji Castle, Japan by Narelle Haken
If you’ve travelled to Japan before or simply want to explore the South, Osaka is another popular place to begin seeing Japan. Osaka is the second largest city in Japan and it was once Japan’s capital.
From Osaka, you can ride a bullet train to Himeji Castle, a UNESCO-listed site that has survived both the bombing of World War II and the great earthquake in 1995.
Kyoto
For 1000 years Kyoto was the imperial capital of Japan, with the Emperor residing in the elaborate palaces located around the city. Kyoto can be reached by train, and with free time to explore you may rent an electric bicycle to see more of the city.
Kyoto is home to the enchanting and peaceful Philosopher’s Path, named after Nishida Kitaro, one of Japan’s most well-known philosophers who meditated on this route as he walked to the university. From Zen gardens to Buddhist temples, colourful Shinto shrines and the Gion geisha district, there’s plenty to see.
Philosophers Path, Japan by Rosemary Priest
Hiroshima
Peace Memorial Park Hiroshima, Japan by Kevin Bishop content
Peace Memorial Park Hiroshima, Japan by Marion Bunnk
Known as a symbol of the devastation of war, Hiroshima is now a symbol of peace. You can reach Hiroshima by bullet train from Kyoto, and here you can explore the Peace Memorial Park, the Atomic Bomb Dome and the Peace Memorial Museum which commemorate the date 6 August 1945 when the first atomic bomb destroyed the region.
Just off the coast of Hiroshima is the island of Miyajima, close enough for a day trip to see the much-photographed Shrine of Itsukushima. Sunrise and sunset are both spectacular at the Haigamine Observatory, providing a view of the city lights stretching all the way to Hiroshima Bay in the evening.
Northern Japan
Oirase Gorge Aomori, Japan by Craig McBey
If you are a nature lover, cyclist or just eager to explore, the northern Tohoku region contains both forests and mountains. Comprising six prefectures, Northern Japan is less touched by tourism.
The Oriase Gorge is one of the most beautiful river valleys in Japan, with crystal clear waters that flow through numerous rapids and waterfalls. Lake Towada is a double-crater lake, located 400m above sea level, with water so clear you can see to a depth of 10m.
Southern Japan
From sweeping grassy plains to volcanic landscapes, Southern Japan provides nature photographers highlights like a stop at Daikanbo, where you can experience a 360-degree view of the Kuju Mountain Range and the Five Peaks of Aso.
There are gardens, castles and hot springs to explore.
Southern Japan exudes rich history, including the Reiganado Cave where legendary swordsman Miyamoto Musashi wrote the ‘Book of Five Rings’, a philosophical guide to swordsmanship and life.
Kuju Mountain, Japan by Adobe Stock
Unique experiences in Japan
Tokyo, Japan by Dennis Bunnik
Costume is central to Japanese culture, from sumo-wrestling to samurai, and the kimonos used for particular tea ceremonies and dinners.
You can observe the elegance of a samurai display, where strength, agility and style come together. The adventurous traveller might choose to learn samurai techniques, using wooden props instead of steel blades for safety.
Sumo-wrestling is a sport you might pass on trying yourself, but observing this powerful display is a must for an in-depth experience of Japanese culture.
Baseball is a popular modern sport in Japan, with stadiums filled and cheerleaders guiding the crowd to energise their favourite teams. Watching a local game is a must for sporting enthusiasts, and even those who are not will be swept up in the fervour of the crowd.
In August of each year, visitors to Japan can experience the Kanto and Nebuta festivals, where three-dimensional floats made from papier-mache depict historical characters, kabuki actors and ancient, mythical gods. This spectacular display of light and sound will stay with you for years to come.
How to get around Japan
Bullet Train, Japan by Marion Bunnik
Travelling by train is an essential experience in Japan and it’s how most locals travel between and within cities. Trains travel fast, reaching speeds of 250km per hour. The Japan rail pass also gives you access to ride on certain ferries to islands off the coast of Japan, providing you book, you can get just about anywhere.
In smaller towns, you might navigate the streets on a rickshaw, a two or three-wheeled cart pulled by the driver.
In Kyoto and some other cities and towns, you can rent electric bicycles to get around city streets. Bike lanes and directions for bike routes make it easy to navigate to your destination, whether that be the Botanic Gardens or the Geisha District. In the evening you might venture out to try the delicious street food.
Taxis are often older, well-maintained vehicles driven by friendly locals. When travelling with a group, transport may vary between a bus or coach and trains, immersing you in the local experience between and at each destination.
Must know Japanese phrases for travel
Politeness is integral to Japanese culture, and one way to show your respect is to make the effort to learn some basic greetings before you go. Here are a few to get you started:
- Konnichiwa (こんにちは) – Hello/ good afternoon.
- Ohayo Gozaimasu (おはよう ご ざ い ます) - Good morning.
- Konbanwa (こんばんは) - Good evening.
- Arigatou (Gozaimasu) (ありがとう (ご ざ い ます)) – Thank you (polite way).
- Onegaishimasu (お願い し ます)/ Kudasai (くだ さい) - Please.
- Sumimasen (すみません) – Excuse me.
- Hai (はい) - Yes/ I understand
- Iie (いいえ) - No
- Nihongo ga wakarimasen (日本語がわかりません) - I don't understand Japanese
- Gomen nasai (ごめんなさい) - I'm sorry
Authentic Japanese food experiences
Beautifully presented and ceremoniously enjoyed, Japanese food and wine are exquisite and very different to typical Australian food.
“Hell-steamed cuisine” in Beppu is an experience that is completely unique to this region. The natural hot steam at Beppu’s springs is used for cooking authentic Japanese dishes that are unique to this region. The mineral-rich steam intensifies flavours, creating dishes you cannot experience elsewhere.
Japan is home to tantalising street food, from steaming ramen to okonomiyaki, a type of ‘pizza’ that resembles a pancake made with cabbage, meat and egg, topped with sauces.
Traditional cuisine includes delicacies like beef tongue, eel, and of course, sushi and sashimi. Classes in local cooking can provide a chance to enhance your culinary skills, learning to make soba noodles or other dishes that catch your interest.
Kyoto, Japan by Abbie Bell
A trip to Japan isn’t complete without the experience of a Japanese tea ceremony. It can take decades to learn the subtle techniques of the traditional tea ceremony, with a formal tea ceremony lasting around four hours.
Keep reading: What you need to know about taking a Japan tour from Australia.
Where to visit near Japan
Combining Japan with nearby South Korea enables you to experience the cultures, cities and scenery of two Asian countries in one trip. From busy markets to ancient pagodas, South Korea offers new experiences down every alleyway. Take the opportunity to try authentic South Korean street food, such as the mung bean pancake, and any variety of dishes you can imagine in Jeonju, the city named UNESCO Creative City for Gastronomy in 2012.
South Korean culture is shaped by both religion and politics, and you will see evidence of this in the many temples, gardens and museums.
Frequently asked questions
Do Australians need a visa to enter Japan?
Australians are eligible for visa exemption when visiting Japan for short-stay tourism and business travel for up to 90 days (this information is current in July 2024). Learn more about passports and visas for Bunnik’s Tours or visit smarttraveller.gov.au.
What is it like to have a vacation in Japan?
Visiting Japan for a holiday is a fascinating experience. The people are polite, helpful and kind, and the culture angles to ‘cuteness’ and respect. Tokyo is full of fashion and style, and delicious food abounds. Efficiency is embedded and food preparation is revered. The natural landscapes are picturesque, with unique beauty in every season.
Which part of Japan should I visit?
Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka are the top places to visit on your first trip to Japan, but it really depends on what type of experience you seek. For cherry blossom season, it depends on the month you plan to travel. The spring season begins in Tokyo around the end of March and spreads north through May.