Japan boasts many incredible sites. Discover medieval castles untouched by war, natural disasters and modernization as well as gorgeous islands that dot the coastlines.
1. Snow Monkey Park
Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park in Nagano is well-known for the wild Japanese macaques that inhabit this picturesque valley, earning itself the moniker “Hell’s Valley.” However, this peaceful setting actually boasts several natural hot springs which attract wild Japanese macaques who like bathing here during winter when snow-covered cliffs become home for steamy hot springs; monkeys also love bathing here, making this experience one of GaijinPot’s Top Cultural Experiences in Japan.
Locals initially created these hot spring baths for themselves, but monkeys quickly claimed them for themselves and became an incredible tourist draw. Visitors to the park can watch monkeys bathe, but aren’t permitted to touch or feed them. Winter is generally the best season to visit; however, if you can stand some cold weather, summer can also provide good opportunities to observe snow monkeys.
2. Miyajima
Miyajima should be on any Japan itinerary as a symbol of its reverence for nature and spirituality. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as one of the best Attractions of Japan, this destination offers stunning shorefront scenery along the beautiful waterfront promenade – perfect for photo opps! Miyajima Shrine with its floating torii gate at Itsukushima Shrine draws many travelers but there’s so much more to do on this tranquil island.
Miyajima is breathtaking any time of year, but spring and autumn are especially beloved times to visit. Spring brings colorful Momiji maple trees while autumn boasts bright red ginkgoes and tamarindos to add pops of color in every hue imaginable.
Attend the Tanabata festival held at Itsukushima Shrine for an extraordinary spiritual experience. Locals write down their wishes on strips of paper and hang them from bamboo trees as part of this centuries-old ritual that speaks volumes of faith and belief.
3. Itsukushima Shrine
At high tide, Itsukushima Shrine (or Miyajima-jinja) in Itsukushima Island stands out as an iconic image of Japan that most often comes to mind when people consider its charms. Devoted to Shinto sea gods and described as an aquatic “fairytale castle”, its sparkling orange torii gate at high tide stands as an iconic image that remains a popular attraction throughout Japan. No wonder then that its iconic image has made this beautiful shrine one of Japan’s top tourist spots!
This exceptional shrine and torii gate can be found on Itsukushima Island (now Miyajima), connected to the mainland by bridge. Built at the end of Heian Period by Taira no Kiyomori – who at that time was believed to be Japan’s most powerful man – Taira believed his good fortune came from goddess Itsukushima and wanted to honor her by building this temple dedicated to her in her honor.
4. Tokyo Imperial Palace
Tokyo Imperial Palace, home of Japan’s Emperor, is one of Tokyo’s top sightseeing attractions and one of its most-visited tourist spots. While much of its inner sanctum remains off limits as an imperial residence, some parts are open for public visitation; tours in English or Japanese run daily at 10am and 1:30pm from Tuesday through Saturday starting from Kikyomon Gate; advance reservations are recommended but not required; tours last about an hour long and depart from there.
Edo Castle was once part of this complex and served as Tokugawa Shogunate Castle; today its eastern portion serves as Kitanomaru Park where one can find notable features such as Chidori-gafuchi Moat with its famed Sakura Cherry Blossoms each spring, Chidori-gafuchi Moat for viewing them, Chidori Gafuchi Moat (known for sakura cherry blossom viewings in springtime), Kitanomaru Park and Kitanomaru Park also play roles.
5. Hakone Open-Air Museum
Few museums can match Hakone Museum for breathtaking surroundings; nestled amongst verdant hills of this hot spring resort town is this spectacular museum setting. World-class sculptures by Rodin, Picasso and Henry Moore blend perfectly into this magnificent museum safari experience.
This pioneering open air museum opened in Japan in 1969 with the belief that sculpture should not be restricted by walls and galleries. Today it houses over 120 outdoor sculptures as well as five indoor exhibition halls featuring 300 of Picasso’s pieces from its Picasso Pavilion alone.
Hakone Open-Air Museum should be on any traveler’s agenda when visiting Japan, whether as an art enthusiast or simply in search of peace (https://www.twowanderingsoles.com/blog/15-must-do-things-in-japan). Rubber shoes will come in handy for walking on slippery outdoor sculptures! To reach it from Hakone-Yumoto Station takes either Hakone Tozan Train to Chokoku No Mori Station and exit there or hop aboard Tourist Attraction Sightseeing Bus until reaching Ninotaira Iriguchi bus stop.
6. Koyasan Okunoin
Koyasan is home to an astounding collection of temples, pagodas and grave monuments; their sheer density creates an indescribably tranquil experience as you stroll among their ancient and mysterious structures. As you explore Koyasan it becomes easy to hum the theme tune while discovering this incredible collection, but before embarking – make sure you’re getting the best out of your trip there by visiting the link below:
Japanese culture should not be missed out when visiting Japan, particularly one that includes staying at a traditional ryokan (guesthouse). Temples in this area are truly incredible and there are numerous activities such as sutra copying and Ajikan meditation sessions available for visitors to take part in.
Whoever wishes to explore Okunoin can either take a guided tour, or hop aboard one of the buses that travel there. Ichinohashi-guchi bus stop offers the full 2-kilometer trek through the cemetery; otherwise, stay on until Okunoin-mae bus stop which is closer to its mausoleum itself.