Top 5: Cities to Visit in Japan

If you’ve got time to explore Japan, make sure you see these five great cities.

Tokyo

It wouldn’t be a trip to Japan without seeing Tokyo, the sprawling capital city. It’s home to many great attractions and also offers amazing shopping and nightlife. You could easily spend a week here, but take a few days and you’ll be able to soak up the highlights.

Osaka

Japan’s third-biggest city used to be the capital, and remains an important commercial center. It’s also known for its foodie culture, nicknamed Tenka no Daidokoro, or the nation’s kitchen.

Hiroshima

A city scarred by the atom bomb dropped in 1945, Hiroshima has a fascinating history. Visit the spellbinding memorial site and then explore the vibrant culinary scene, which has flourished in recent years.

Takayama

This mountain city is found in the Japanese Alps, and offers a taste of traditional life. There are loads of gardens, castles, temples and shrines to explore, not to mention amazing views.

Kobe

A port city squeezed between the sea and a mountain range, Kobe is a beautiful place to spend a few days. It’s also home to delicious Kobe beef, a premium meat known for its tenderness.