Japan is full of picturesque views and sites just waiting for you to explore. However, you may have only seen certain areas in pictures, and have no clue yourself where some of them are. Worry not, because that’s just what we are here to do for you! Let’s get started!
Arakurayama Sengen Park, Yamanashi Prefecture
The Arakurayama Sengen Park in Yamanashi prefecture is among the most iconic sites in Japan, with it’s unforgettable views of Mt.Fuji, mixing with the aesthetic of the 6th century shrine, the view is breathtaking – as long as you have a clear day.
In the spring, many of the trees in the park enter peak beauty as the cherry blossoms begin to do their thing and stun the world. The viewing area of Mt.Fuji and the pagoda is located on a hill side, and there are approximately 400 steps required to reach it. Click here for more info
Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kyoto Prefecture
Fushimi Inari Taisha is a shrine located in west Kyoto, only a short train ride away from Kyoto station. It’s popular due to the roughly 10,000 bright orange torii gates which line the pathway up the side of the mountain to the main worship area. Along the way, there is scenic views of the city skyline, and on clear days, you can even see Osaka and further.
During the day hours, this particular shrine is so full of people, it’s very rare to get a photo like this, however, early mornings, a photo like this is more than achievable.
Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo Prefecture
The Shibuya Crossing is the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing, famous for the sea of people who use the crossing at any time. The crossing is busy from early morning, around about 6:00am onwards, though until about 9:00pm, and are especially busy during the morning and afternoon work/school rushes.
It’s located on the norther end of Shibuya station, which services approximately a billion passengers annually.
Atomic Bomb Dome, Hiroshima Prefecture
The Atomic Bomb Dome in Hiroshima city, Hiroshima Prefecture is one of the most historically important sites in all of Japan, as it is one of the only surviving buildings within the epicenter of the Atomic bomb that was dropped on the city, August 6th, 1945, killing approximately 146,000 people on the day and over the course of the following months. Today, it stands as a monument of the horrors of war, and is highly recommended that you visit, it is a truly emotional experience.
Nara Deer Park, Nara Prefecture
The Nara Deer Park is a popular region in the city of Nara, famous for the countless wild deer who roam the streets. You can even feed the deer by purchasing a pack of deer cookies from the local vendors for 150JPY.
Just be warned, the deer, while the may seem tame, they are still wild, and will almost definitely get aggressive or nippy when food is about, make sure you properly secure anything, including bags and maps.
Golden Temple, Kyoto Prefecture
The Golden Temple, otherwise known in Japanese as the Kinkaku-ji, in Kyoto is one of the most picturesque locations in all of Japan, especially if you have optimal viewing conditions.
The temple dates back to the late 1300’s, and yes, it is real gold on the outside. However, it is purely gold foil, so it’s not solid. Regardless of that fact, the temple is still stunning to see in person, and there is a lovely walk around the gardens and the historic tea houses. A must visit in Kyoto.
Asakusa, Tokyo Prefecture
Asakusa is a popular shrine area in the heart of Tokyo, most famous for Senso-ji. It’s popular for it’s expansive street of shops, enormous gates, and spacious shrine grounds. The complex was originally founded in the 600’s, and has since stood as an important cultural landmark in Tokyo.
This area can get very crowded, very quickly, so make sure you are alert and follow the flow of traffic, don’t attempt to walk out of the flow of traffic, you will only make life challenging for you and several others.
Mt. Fuji, Yamanashi Prefecture
Mt. Fuji in Yamanashi Prefecture is possibly the most photographed spot in all of Japan. There are so many places for you to see and view this stunning mountain. So many, that we even created another article page dedicated to the 6 best views of Mt. Fuji. You can read that by clicking the link below!
Are you planning a trip to Japan soon? Then you really should consider purchasing a JR Rail Pass, especially if you are planning on hitting all the major Tourist cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, and Sapporo.
The JR Rail Pass makes getting around the country easy, and can save you several hundreds in travel expenses. All you need to do is just show your pass at the ticket gate, and you have access to any and all JR rail lines across the country, and not just the standard commuter trains, but luxury trains, and even the world famous Shikansen (Bullet Train). A JR Rail Pass is an essential item for any visitor to Japan. Buy your pass today by clicking here now!