Planning a trip to Japan in 2025? From ancient shrines and majestic mountains to vibrant cities and tropical islands, Japan offers an unforgettable travel experience in every season. This guide highlights 18 of the best places to visit in Japan, carefully selected for their beauty, culture, and travel appeal in 2025. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning explorer, you’ll find inspiration to suit every interest—urban excitement, natural wonders, historical landmarks, culinary delights, and spiritual retreats.

Mount Fuji

#1 Japan’s Timeless Icon
Mount Fuji continues to captivate travelers with its majestic presence and nearly symmetrical cone. This UNESCO World Heritage Site isn’t just for climbers—visitors can also enjoy panoramic views, serene lakes, and cultural museums in the Fuji Five Lakes area. During winter 2025, the nearby ski resorts and hot springs (onsen) offer the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Don’t miss the Chureito Pagoda for one of the most Instagrammable views of Fuji.

Tokyo

2# Modern Marvel Meets Historic Charm
Japan’s bustling capital is a city that never sleeps and always surprises. In 2025, Tokyo shines brighter with futuristic developments in Shibuya and a growing list of culinary hot spots. Wander through the high-end stores of Ginza, admire cherry blossoms in Ueno Park, or experience the blend of tradition and technology at teamLab Planets. Whether you’re chasing Michelin stars or anime culture, Tokyo is a dynamic must-see.

Kyoto

3# Cultural Heart of Japan
Kyoto remains the go-to city for travelers seeking temples, geishas, and timeless beauty. In 2025, it’s easier than ever to explore iconic sites like Fushimi Inari Shrine and Kinkaku-ji thanks to expanded tourist transport routes. Visit during cherry blossom or autumn foliage season for postcard-perfect views. While in town, don’t skip the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Nishiki Market for a taste of Kyoto’s local flavors.

Okinawa

4# Tropical Paradise & Island Culture
Okinawa’s stunning beaches and vibrant marine life continue to attract adventure seekers and sun lovers alike. In 2025, eco-tourism is thriving on islands like Ishigaki and Iriomote. Explore coral reefs, dive with manta rays, and witness humpback whales between January and March. Dive deeper into Okinawan culture at Shurijo Castle and explore the island’s unique Ryukyuan heritage.

Osaka

5# Japan’s Food Capital
Osaka is where comfort food and energetic nightlife collide. In 2025, the Dotonbori area is livelier than ever with light shows and new eateries. Sample legendary street food like takoyaki and okonomiyaki, then visit Osaka Castle or go wild at Universal Studios Japan, now featuring Super Nintendo World. The city’s laid-back charm makes it a great complement to Kyoto’s tradition.

Nikko

6# Sacred Sites in Natural Splendor
Just a couple of hours from Tokyo, Nikko offers a magical escape. In 2025, the town’s stunning mix of nature and history is more accessible thanks to enhanced train connections. Explore the ornate Toshogu Shrine, enjoy the scenery around Lake Chuzenji, or unwind in a mountain hot spring surrounded by vibrant fall colors.

Yokohama

7# Modern Port with Global Flair
Yokohama has grown into one of Japan’s coolest cities to explore. In 2025, expect new waterfront developments and cultural spaces in Minato Mirai 21. Enjoy the scenic harbor, visit Japan’s CupNoodles Museum, or sample authentic Chinese cuisine in the country’s largest Chinatown. Yokohama is a perfect day trip or overnight escape from Tokyo.

Fukuoka

8# Southern Japan’s Hidden Gem
As Kyushu’s largest city, Fukuoka blends seaside beauty with urban buzz. The new waterfront parks and increased flight routes in 2025 make it a rising destination. Visit Nokonoshima Island for seasonal flower blooms, stroll through Ohori Park, and slurp down a hot bowl of Hakata ramen at a yatai (street stall). If you’re visiting in July, don’t miss the thrilling Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival.

Kanazawa

9# Edo-Era Elegance Preserved
Kanazawa impresses with its well-preserved history and refined atmosphere. Visit Kenrokuen Garden, now enhanced with QR-guided tours, and explore the Samurai and Geisha districts. In 2025, cultural tourism thrives here thanks to growing international interest in traditional Japanese crafts and cuisine.

Kobe

10# A Rebuilt Beauty by the Bay
Kobe has rebounded from past disasters into a sophisticated coastal city. Famous for its namesake beef and sake, Kobe in 2025 also boasts revitalized green spaces and panoramic city views from Mount Rokko. Wind down at a waterfront café in Kobe Harborland or take a romantic ropeway ride at sunset.

Shirakawa-go & Gokayama

11# Rural Japan in a Snow Globe
These UNESCO-listed villages feel like stepping into another century. In 2025, winter illuminations and farm-stay experiences offer an even more immersive glimpse into old Japan. The gassho-style homes and peaceful mountain setting make this a unique off-the-beaten-path destination.

Takayama

12# Mountain Town With Old-World Charm
Set against the Japanese Alps, Takayama is a rustic gem. Tour the charming old town in a rickshaw, savor Hida beef, and visit the Spring and Autumn Takayama Festivals. In 2025, enhancements to regional travel make it easier to pair Takayama with nearby destinations like Shirakawa-go.

Hiroshima

13# Peace, Resilience & Beauty
Hiroshima stands as a powerful symbol of peace. Visit the Peace Memorial Park and Atomic Bomb Dome, then enjoy nature at Shukkeien Garden or boat through Sandankyo Gorge. New in 2025: augmented reality guides enhance historical sites for deeper insight into Hiroshima’s past and rebirth.

Shikoku

14# Spiritual Journey and Nature Trails
The smallest of Japan’s main islands is perfect for travelers wanting something different. The 88 Temple Pilgrimage remains a draw, but 2025 also introduces new eco-lodges and wellness retreats. Celebrate Awa Odori in August or hike through remote valleys and coastal paths at your own pace.

Hakone

15# Hot Springs and Mount Fuji Views
Hakone is a top wellness destination, thanks to its steamy onsen and beautiful surroundings. This year, look forward to modern art exhibits and expanded boat rides on Lake Ashinoko. Soak in unique baths at Yunessun or ride the Hakone Ropeway for dramatic views of Mount Fuji.

Sapporo

16# Snow, Ramen, and Festivals
Sapporo transforms into a winter wonderland every February for its Snow Festival. In 2025, expanded ski trails and sustainable winter resorts attract international snow seekers. After a chilly day, warm up with local miso ramen or tour the Sapporo Beer Museum.

Matsumoto

17# Mountain Gateway With Artistic Soul
Matsumoto, known for its striking black castle, is also the birthplace of avant-garde artist Yayoi Kusama. With better access to Kamikochi in 2025, it’s a great hub for exploring the Japanese Alps. Art lovers and hikers alike will find plenty to enjoy here.

Miyajima (Itsukushima)

18# Sacred Island Beauty
Home to the iconic “floating” torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine, Miyajima remains a symbol of spiritual tranquility. The shrine’s restoration is now complete in 2025, and nighttime light-ups make evening visits even more enchanting. Stay overnight for fewer crowds and a truly serene experience.