The best places in Japan. The most amazing places in Japan. Naoshima Island near Hiroshima

Take a look at the list compiled by the site, you will find some of the best attractions in this amazing land of the rising sun. Some places are quite famous tourist places, but some are completely remote and little known. There are even a couple of places that are not listed on any map, but believe me, they are no less amazing than the rest of the amazing places.

#1 Sagan Bamboo Forest, Arashiyama

The Sagano Bamboo Forest, a beautiful forest located in Arashiyama, is the second most popular tourist area in Kyoto. Passing through the tall bamboo groves, you seem to be transported to another world, and despite the fact that it can be quite crowded, especially during the high season, there is no doubt that this amazing place is a must-see!

№2 Fields with blooming shiba-zakura (Shibazakura)

The Fuji Shibazakura Festival is an annual event celebrating the flowering of colorful moss growing in the Fuji Five Lakes area. Festival goers will be greeted with an amazing spectacle of over 800,000 stalks of pink, white and purple moss covering the field with an equally magnificent view of Mount Fuji. Bloom time varies every year, but the festival is usually held between April and June. It is best to observe this miracle of nature in the early morning - it is at this time that visibility is best.

No. 3 4.5 Million Nemophila Flowers at Hitachi Seaside Park

Hitachi seaside park, located northeast of Tokyo, is an ideal place to visit at any time of the year due to its abundance of flowers that turn the local landscape into a colorful canvas. September is the best time to visit, as most varieties of flowers bloom at this time, but if you want to see Nemophila (Baby Blue Eyes) in full bloom, then the best time to visit the park is between April and May.

#4 Autumn at Hitachi Seaside Park

Autumn is the best time to visit Hitachi Seaside Park, a popular park on the east coast of Honshu, Japan's largest island. It takes about two hours by public transport from Tokyo to get there, making the park an ideal day trip destination for those looking for a little respite from the hustle and bustle of the metropolis.

No. 5 Wisteria (Wisteria) Tunnel at Kawachi Fuji Flower Garden

Have you ever wanted to go through the Wisteria Tunnel? Then you're in luck, because the Kawachi Fuji Garden is exactly what you're looking for. The garden is located in the northern part of Kyushu, about an hour from Fukuoka by public transport. The Japanese love Wisteria (But what about all of us?) And this flower is even narrated in Waka - classical Japanese poetry. The best time to visit the garden is at the end of April, when Wisteria is at its most colorful.

No. 6 Fushimi Inari Shrine

Fushimi Inari Shine Shrine is one of the most important Shinto shrines in southern Kyoto. It is also the most important shrine dedicated to Inari, the god of Shinto rice. Foxes are believed to be Inari's messengers, so you will find many fox statues around the temple. The main tourist attraction here are the thousands of cinnabar-colored torii gates (vermilion torii gates) that circle the various winding paths around the main buildings. This is an amazing place for photography lovers, as long as the crowds of tourists just won't let you take a good picture.

No. 7 Nathadera Temple in Winter

Temple Natadera (Natadera) is magnificent at any time of the year, but only in winter this shrine appears to you in a different light, it is then that the whole mood and the whole spirit of this holy place is conveyed. The temple is over 1300 years old, having been founded in 717 by a Buddhist monk visiting a nearby mountain in search of a goddess. Both the mountain (Mount Hakusan) and the temple remain the region's most popular tourist destinations to this day.

No. 8 River in Kawagoe

If you are in the Tokyo area, be sure to take a day to visit the city of Kawagoe. The city can be reached in just half an hour by train, making it the perfect place for a day trip. Kawagoe is well known for its rivers (Kawa means "river" and GE means "above") and is often referred to as "Little Edo" because the city's main street still retains the atmosphere of the Edo period (1603-1867). Try to plan your visit to coincide with the Kawagoe Festival, which takes place over two days on the 3rd Saturday and Sunday of October.

No. 9 Taketa Bamboo Lantern Festival, Oita

Taketa means bamboo and paddy field, and what better way to celebrate the city's day with the Bamboo Light Festival The tradition was started in 2000 as one way to prune the fast growing bamboo that can be found throughout the region, and the festival attracts tourists from all over the world who aspire to witness the 20,000 lanterns that are lit for three nights each year. The festival starts on the third Friday of November.

No. 10 Nachi-no-taki Pagoda and Waterfall

If you're looking for ancient history combined with breathtaking scenery, then don't miss the Temple of the Blue Waves (Seiganto-ji pagoda). Located in Wakayama Prefecture, the Three-storied Pagoda is an impressive sight in itself. But the fact that it stands next to the Nachi-no-Taki waterfall makes it even more spectacular! The waterfall is 133 meters high (430 feet) and is the shrine of the area and it's easy to see why people choose to worship this amazing natural site when you see it with your own eyes.

No. 11 Chureito Pagoda and Mount Fuji

If you're planning a trip to Japan, your itinerary won't be complete without visiting some of the most famous natural wonders in the country. One of the best views of this spectacular mountain can be seen from the memorial, built in 1963. To do this, you need to climb a staircase of 400 steps, and then Chureito Pagoda will appear in front of you and trust us when we say that every step is worth it.

#12 Cherry Blossom Purple Lake in Tokyo

Cherry blossoms are one of the most spectacular seasonal attractions the country has to offer. Every spring the country turns into a huge bouquet of pastel petals, but if you want to witness it for yourself then make sure you get the timing right because the cherry blossom season only lasts a few weeks. Luckily, there are several sites dedicated to monitoring the annual bloom, so keep an eye on such sites to get to the country during the peak cherry blossom season.

No. 13 Nakasendo Trail

The Nakasendo Trail is a hiking trail that starts in Kyoto and ends in Edo. Nakasendo literally means "road through the mountains" and it was an important transportation route in the 17th century. Now largely abandoned, the Nakasendoy Way winds its way through pleasant scenic spots in the countryside and historical sites of Japan. The whole journey will take about 10 days, which is great for those who love hiking. Many tour operators offer packages including guides, meals and accommodation.

No. 14 Night Tokyo

Tokyo is like two cities in one. Tokyo by day and Tokyo by night, and if we had to choose, the second option is the most magnificent. After the sun goes down, the capital of Japan turns into a surreal, mesmerizing place full of neon lights, bustling streets, crowded bars and glowing storefronts. The same description can be applied to many cities around the world, but after visiting Tokyo at night, you will understand that there is nowhere on the planet that is more charming than the capital of Japan.

No. 15 Keage Station in Kyoto (Keage Incline)

Keage Incline is located in the Kyoto Biwako Canal. It was once an important transportation route during the Meiji period and remnants of the old railroad still remain to this day. The abandoned railway tracks near the canal are an ideal place to take a walk, especially when the cherry blossoms start to bloom, and the area is popular with tourists and locals because it is a very picturesque and quiet place. There is a free museum for anyone interested in the history of the Canal.

No. 16 Meigetsu-in Temple

Meigetsu-in Temple was built in 1160. It is also known as the Temple of the Hydrangea because it flowers nearby during the rainy season. The temple was built by a son in memory of his father, who died during a power struggle between warring clans at the end of the Heian period. It is located in Kanagawa Prefecture and is a day's journey from Tokyo.

#17 Cherry blossoms around Osaka Castle

Seeing the cherry blossoms and the majesty of Osaka Castle are two of the most amazing experiences to visit in Japan. So why not combine these two spectacles into one and time your trip to Osaka Castle for cherry blossom season? Around the castle, the cherry blossoms bloom annually in the month of March, but before you travel, be sure to check the exact flowering dates before booking your flights.

No. 18 Autumn colors in Fukushima in Osaka

When people hear about Fukushima in general, there is a misperception - Yes, in 2011, the region was hit by a devastating earthquake and a devastating tsunami and, as a result, an accident at a nuclear power plant. However, outside the exclusion zone of 20 km, the area has remained unchanged and has much to offer tourists. It is especially beautiful here in autumn, when the forests are saturated with autumn colors. Therefore, do not forget to stop here if you decide to travel to the north of Japan.

#19 Rainy day in Osaka

Whether the sun is shining or it is raining, there is always something to do in Osaka. The city is the second largest county seat after Tokyo and is well known for its striking architecture, vibrant nightlife, amazing street food and, of course, Osaka Castle. If it's overcast outside, then don't worry, in the city center there is Shinsaibashi-suji, the largest covered shopping street, where several hours will fly by unnoticed. It's a great place to walk on a cloudy day, waiting for the rain to stop.

No. 20 Daigoji Temple

Daigo-ji is a Buddhist temple located in Fushimi. Daigo literally means "ghee" and is used as a synonym for the word "cream", which in turn is a metaphor for the deep purity of Buddhist thought. The temple is an important site of the Shingon sect of Japanese Buddhism and is one of the country's many World Heritage Sites. You can reach this place in Kyoto from Tokyo in about 3-4 hours by train.

No. 21 Aogashima Island

If you are looking for adventure, then the Aogashima Islands are exactly what you need. It is located in the Philippine Sea, 350 km south of Tokyo, and the only way to get there is by helicopter or boat. The island, which covers an area of ​​less than 9 square kilometers, has several houses with less than 200 inhabitants. The island is well known for its unique geological formation. Not only does Aogashima have a volcanic crater in the center, but this very crater is actually in the middle of a second, even larger volcanic crater! The result of this miracle of nature is simply magnificent and will not leave anyone indifferent. Great place for travel and photography.

No. 22 Osaka Castle covered in snow

No trip to Osaka would be complete without a visit to this famous castle. This is one of the most famous landmarks in Japan. The castle played an important role in the unification of Japan in the 16th century. The entire area of ​​the castle covers about 60,000 square meters, and the view from the main tower will provide you with a breathtaking panoramic view of the surroundings of the city.

No. 23 Shirakawa Village

Shirikawa Village is located near Gokoyama Village (Read about it below in the article) and is one of the many other UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Japan. This place is ideal for traveling from Takayama City and Kanazawa to benefit your state of mind. But those who are looking for a different travel experience can spend the night here on one of the farms.

No. 24 Glowing Squids in Toyama Bay

There are many reasons to visit Toyama, but one of the reasons is definitely worth it, the fact is that Toyama Bay, the largest in Japan, turns into one of the most amazing natural spectacles every year, when thousands of glowing squids rise from the depths to the surface, the thereby causing the sea to glow with a blue light. Toyama Prefecture is located northwest of Tokyo and can be reached by train in 3-4 hours. But even if it takes you twice as long to travel, believe me, you won't regret it!

No. 25 Blue Pond in Hokkaido

Hokkaido, the second largest island in Japan. It is located in the north of the country, it is a vast wilderness untouched by people. The region is about 40 times larger than Tokyo, but only a third of the total population lives there. If you decide to visit this region, be sure to visit the place called the Blue Pond (Aoiike) so named because of the natural minerals that turn the water into a beautiful blue lagoon. You can find it on the outskirts of Shirogan Onsen, a hot spring in Kamikawa City.

No. 26 Kibune Shrine in Sakioku, Kyoto

Kibune Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Kyoto. Kibune means yellow boat because, according to legend, the goddess sailed here in a yellow boat from Osaka and the temple was built on the spot where her journey ended. The temple is dedicated to the god of water and rain, and visitors can leave a special type of written message that contains only the most sensitive personal information, after which the letter is dipped into the water.

No. 27 Gokoyama Historical Village

After China, Japan has more UNESCO World Heritage Sites than any other country in East Asia. There are 19 such sites in the country and the village of Gokayama is one such place. The village is located in the valley of the Shogava river. The village is famous for its "gassho-zukuri" style houses, which means "built like hands in prayer". Some of them are over 250 years old.

#28 Fireflies in the Bamboo Forest

There are many reasons to visit Nagoya, one of which is the famous Nagoya Castle. However, there is a more surprising reason to do so. The fact is that here you can observe an amazing phenomenon - dancing fireflies. Fireflies can be seen here every day, and this spectacle is also worth looking at.

No. 29 Todai-ji Temple, Nara

Todaiji means Great Oriental Temple and is one of the most famous and historically important temples in Japan. In fact, the main hall of Todai-ji, also known as Daibutsuden (Big Buddha Hall), is the largest wooden building in the world! The temple is a landmark in Nara, a city located in the south-central part of the island of Honshu, which is famous for the abundance of wild deer that roam the streets and parks at their leisure. You can feed them right off the bat with crackers that you can buy anywhere in Nara City, but be warned: once the deer know you have food, they will follow you around the park until you give them everything!

No. 30 Kabukicho Red Light District

If you are going to visit Tokyo, then one of the must-see places is the entertainment and red light district of Kabuki-cho - this is one of the largest such places in Japan. The area is located on the east side of the train station in Shinjuku and is completely safe for foreigners. Great place to explore local nightclubs, love hotels and shops. This place is known as the "sleepless city" for reasons that you can guess for yourself.

No. 31 Red Autumn in Kyoto

Kyoto needs no introduction. It was the capital of the country and the residence of the emperor from 794 to 1868, it is the city where the famous Kyoto Treaty was signed, and it is a real treasure trove of Japanese history, culture, architecture and religion. Indeed, due to its great historical significance, the city was excluded from the list of possible targets for the atomic bombing carried out by the United States in 1945. If you intend to visit only one city in Japan, that city must be Kyoto. Try to get here in autumn, when the leaves turn the city into a fabulous landscape of yellows and reds.

No. 32 Cherry Blossom

Have we mentioned cherry blossoms yet? Perhaps, but it doesn't hurt to remind you that you can't understand Japan without seeing it in purple cherry blossoms. The best time for this is March-April, but as the season changes from year to year, be sure to check the dedicated map before planning your trip.

No. 33 Spring in Japan

Not many countries look like Japan in the spring. This is the time that can offer tourists a lot! There is only one important detail before traveling to the land of the rising sun at this time of the year - Be sure to take your camera!

No. 34 Mimurotōji Temple, Uji, Kyotoi

Mimurotōji, also known as the "Temple of the Flower", is located in the northern hills of Uji City. You can get there by train from Kyoto Station. And it's definitely worth the time. The approximately 1200 year old temple and its gardens provide a fantastic selection of different colors depending on the season. Sakura in early April, Azalea in May, Hydrangea in June, and Lotus will welcome visitors in July and August.

No. 35 Tea plantations near Mount Fuji

Tea plays an important role in traditional Japanese culture. Green tea is the most consumed beverage in Japan and is often available in a powdered form known as Matcha. It first arrived from China over 1300 years ago and the Japanese have been in love with it ever since! You cannot visit this country without having a cup of tea and if you are looking for a unique experience then we would suggest sitting in on a traditional tea ceremony. Better yet, why not visit one of the country's tea farms? You can find them in Shizuoka Prefecture, which is also home to Mount Fuji, and there's nothing better than enjoying a cup of Japan's favorite drink while taking in the gorgeous view of Mount Fuji.

No. 36 Terraced fields in Saga

Saga Prefecture is located in the northwest of Kyushu. It's a long drive from Tokyo and Osaka, and it's not a popular stop on the usual tourist itinerary, but those who have ventured far will be quite glad they did. The prefecture is famous for its beautiful rice terraces that cascade down the mountains to the ocean, and at sunset they glow in the moon like shards of mirrors and glass. You can fly to Saga in 2 hours from Tokyo, but if you have time, it's best to take the train and stop in Osaka, Kyoto and Hiroshima to experience the very best this part of Japan has to offer.

No. 37 Tokyu Plaza Shopping Center

There are many malls in Tokyo, but few of them can compete with Tokyu Plaza. The mall is located in the Shibuya district of the capital, and is known for its striking entrance. The escalator passes through a tunnel adorned with hundreds of mirrors that are placed at different angles to create many distorting reflections. This is a great place for a fun photo shoot. Another amazing reason to visit Tokyu Plaza is the large public park you can find on the rooftop.

Japan is an East Asian island nation bordering the Pacific Ocean. The official name of the country is "Nihon Koku" or, alternatively, "Nippon Koku", which translates as "the place where the sun rises."

During the year, Japan is visited by millions of tourists from all over the world - for example, in 2017 their number reached as much as 28.69 million people! This is due to the fact that it is here that there are many beautiful, amazing and impressive places and attractions.

On the largest island of the Japanese archipelago, Honshu, there is the town of Chichibu (Saitama Prefecture). It is here that you can find one of the most picturesque parks in the country, which is called Hitsujiyama. Its territory is part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.

An amazing feature of Khutsijiyama is that every year from April to May, its land turns into a continuous carpet of blooming purple-pink phloxes! This herbaceous plant from the cyanotic family is characterized by a strikingly beautiful flowering, which spreads a fragrant fragrant aroma in the air. 17600 m² become a single colorful canvas, which is complemented by other vegetation - about 1000 sakura, "weeping" cherries and other trees, shrubs and flowers.

Every year, the park hosts the Fuji Shibazakura themed festival, dedicated to both the grandiose flowering of plants and the arrival of spring. There really is something to admire here: florists prepare interesting compositions that are created by alternating pink, white, lilac, purple phlox, and decorate the general view of the park to enhance the impression of the landscapes that open to the eye. Hitsujiyama is located right at the foot of Mount Fuji, which reaches 3776 m in height. There are no other such high mountains in Japan. The park offers inspiring panoramic views - of flowering fields, of the snowy peak of Mount Fuji, of the blue sky ...

Another beautiful place and real national pride of the Japanese is the Sagano Bamboo Forest, located in Kyoto Prefecture. Despite the fact that there are urban buildings around the park, peace and tranquility reign on its territory - thousands of thin evergreens rise up, and next to them both locals and visiting tourists leisurely walk along the paths, alleys and hanging bridges.

The bamboo reserve occupies a very small area of ​​​​16 km². However, there is no reason to worry that sooner or later it will be replaced by a metropolis - Sagano is protected by law and is considered an inviolable territory. Going deeper into the forest is forbidden in the same way as cutting bamboo stems, because all this causes serious harm to plants.

For those who want to leave a souvenir for themselves, there are special shops at the entrance that sell handicrafts (dishes, baskets, figurines, etc.).

The bamboo reserve originated in the 14th century. Then a monk named Muso Soseki, a great connoisseur of poetry and gardening, ordered to equip a beautiful park from which one could admire the temples and hills of Japan. Today, right next to the Sagano forest is the Tenryu-ji Zen Buddhist temple complex, which is also a landmark and even included in the UNESCO World Heritage List due to its architectural value.

This is interesting! Apparently, it was no coincidence that Muso Soseki wished to equip a bamboo park right next to the urban settlement. In Japan, they believe that this evergreen plant can protect people from evil spirits.

The Sagano Reserve is also known as the "Music Grove". When the wind blows, amazing sounds arise here - thin stems begin to emit a soothing and harmonious rustling. Such a natural melody resembles the sound of wind chimes, which are especially popular in the East.

Kawagoe

Lovers of antiquity will like the city of Kawagoe (translated from Japanese - "river crossing"), located on the island of Honshu in Saitama Prefecture and having a long history of existence. This settlement appeared as early as the 15th century, but its heyday occurred only 200 years after that - it was then that an important dignitary, the head of the shogunal guard, settled in the city. Kawagoe ceased to be an inconspicuous settlement - a castle arose here with a fortress surrounding it, two-story merchant houses, temples, craft quarters, etc.

The city was on fire many times. One of the largest fires occurred here in 1893. However, even despite this, Kawagoe still retains the spirit of old, traditional Japan with its cozy streets and wooden buildings. Every year, this atmosphere is especially enhanced on the day of the Kawagoe festival, which takes place here on the third Saturday and Sunday of October. At this time, an amazing view of the surrounding landscapes opens up from the city river.

The main attraction of Kawagoe is the Buddhist temple of Kita-In, built in the distant 830. It houses furnishings from the old Edo Castle, now known as the "Tokyo Imperial Palace".

After a fire broke out in Edo Castle, entire rooms were actually moved to Kita-In in order to preserve them. These and other objects located on the temple grounds are considered important property of the Japanese Prefecture.

Not far from Kita-In is another interesting place - the garden of Five Hundred Rakans (Gohyaku Rakan). Despite the name, no vegetation grows here, but there are 538 statues of rakans - Buddha's disciples who have achieved enlightenment. Each sculpture is unique, original and unrepeatable.

Some rakans, already covered with moss, are smiling, others look thoughtful, and still others are watching the tourists with a calm look ...

Another most beautiful place in Japan that definitely deserves attention is the Hitachi National Seaside Park (which means “dawn” in translation), located in Ibaraki Prefecture on the island of Honshu.

Unlike the aforementioned Hutsijiyama, Hitachi occupies a much larger area - as much as 120 hectares! Plants grow on its territory, the Luna Park is located, cafeterias and children's play areas function, and there is also a zoo where exotic animals live. This is a great place for a solo or group vacation with friends and relatives. The flowering of some plants is replaced by the flowering of others, so the riot of colors and aromas in Hitachi does not stop at any time of the year.

And yet, American forget-me-nots, or, by another name, nemophiles, are of particular interest. There are about 4.5 million of these flowers here, so they are rightfully considered the real pride of the entire park. Nemophiles bloom from April to May, as a result of which the territories that go beyond the horizon are painted in a delicate blue-blue color. It seems as if the sky itself is temporarily descending to the ground!

Seigantoji Pagoda

The next beautiful place that can introduce the traveler to the culture of Ancient Japan is the Buddhist temple Nachisan Seiganto-ji, located in Wakayama Prefecture on the island of Honshu. One of the buildings of this complex was built in the form of a pagoda - a multi-tiered tower, which has a special cult character and sacred significance. Such a temple is characterized by the presence of cornices, bright decorations, details, etc.

This is interesting! Today, Nachisan Seiganto-ji is protected by the UNESCO organization, because. considered an important sacred and pilgrimage site. Next to it is another temple, however, already Shinto - Hiro-jinja.

The impressive view of the three-tiered crimson pagoda of Seiganto-ji is made even more beautiful by the surrounding landscape - right behind the structure is the largest Nachi waterfall in the country, falling off a cliff 133 m high! Below is a picturesque pool, which reaches 10 m in depth. You can enjoy the splendor of the whole complex at the Nachisan Seiganto-ji observation deck.

The largest number of tourists arrive here on July 14 during the celebration of Nachi-no-Ogi Matsuri - the fire festival and one of the most important days in Japan.

The priests carry 12 palanquins and 12 heavy lit torches on the way to the waterfall, which symbolize the purification of this path. The fiery flame reaches a meter height. The Japanese themselves consider Nachi Falls to be the embodiment of the sacred spirit of Hiro-gongen.

Aogashima is called immediately 2 geographical objects - it is both an island belonging to the Izu cluster and part of the Nampo archipelago, and a volcano that is located here. Under the influence of a warm current, a mild subtropical climate was established on Aogashima without sudden changes in temperature and unforeseen precipitation. The island, which is only 3.5 km long and 2.5 km wide, seems like a paradise not only for animals, birds and greenery, but also for people.

However, this is not entirely true, because the 423 m high stratovolcano located here can pose a real threat to local residents. Although not active today, Aogashima Crater could theoretically erupt at any moment. The last time this happened was in 1783 and 1785. In the first case, lava destroyed 61 structures and killed 7 people, and in the second case, 140 people died! After that, the island was abandoned for 50 years, but over time, the inhabitants returned here.

Today, people live here as if nothing had happened - they fish, do agricultural work, arrange excursions for tourists and lovers of underwater fishing. In total, there are about 200 representatives of the local population on Aogashima.

Shirakawa village

Those who appreciate the atmosphere of secluded villages will like the Japanese village of Shirakawa, located in the north of Gifu Prefecture (Honshu Island). This place with a population of 1644 people and an area of ​​356.55 km² is also included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

95.7% of the local territories are covered with forests, which become especially striking in the winter season. There is more snow here than anywhere else in Japan!

The height of snowdrifts can reach 4-5 m. A person who comes here will be able to enjoy the view of the valley with small cozy houses of local residents, as well as the unique and unlike architectural style "gassho-zukuri", which arose several centuries ago. Firstly, its peculiarity lies in the unusual structure of thatched roofs - they are connected to the rest of the buildings at an angle of 60 degrees, as if resembling hands folded in prayer. In this, the Japanese saw not so much beauty as practical use. People needed to build something strong and durable over their heads that would protect them from heavy snow and rain.

This is how the pitched roofs of the gassho-zukuri arose, which did not delay precipitation, but, on the contrary, contributed to their speedy shedding to the ground. Secondly, this style involved the rejection of nails in favor of exclusively natural materials. Despite the fact that ordinary rods were used to connect the beams, this technique proved to be simply excellent - even today houses that are 400 or more years old still stand here!

The local population, which lives as a united and friendly commune, continues to follow these ancient building methods. People together re-lay thatched roofs and repair buildings, because. they do not want to dilute the original architecture of their native village with something new, modern and high-tech. The people of Shirakawa make a living mainly from tourism income, offering travelers their homes for overnight stays, as well as introducing them to the local culture, traditions, and customs.

Japan is one of the most developed countries in the world. This state has its own thousand-year history, traditions, original culture. The country is located in East Asia on the Japanese archipelago, consisting of 6,852 islands. The largest islands of the country:

• Hokkaido
• Honshu
• Shikoku

Despite the relatively small area, the population density of the country is high. Japan has a population of 126,225,000. The state is also called the Land of the Rising Sun. The Japanese themselves often refer to the homeland as Nihon (homeland of the sun). In 1945, the country was attacked by nuclear weapons from the United States. The tragedy claimed thousands of lives, today Japan is the only state in the world against which such weapons were used. But it was able to recover, building a strong economy over the years, and today ranks 10th in terms of living standards.

Only here to this day the ruler is called emperor. Modern Japanese are very successful not only in the economy, but also in science, biomedicine, robotics, and high technologies. Japanese scientists have been awarded various prestigious awards, the Nobel Prize, the Fields Prize.

The Japanese care about the environment, carefully preserve the rich heritage of the country, represented by castles, temples, palaces, monuments. All of them have come down to our days almost in their original form. More than a million tourists visit the state every year.

TOP 10 most beautiful cities in Japan

1. Osaka is an interesting tourist metropolis.
2. Kyoto is the guardian of the country's cultural heritage.
3. Nara is the oldest Japanese city.
4. Ise is a popular home for the Ise Jingu Shrine.
5. Tokyo is an ultra-modern metropolis.
6. Matsumoto is the charm of historical places.
7. Sapporo is a famous ski resort.
8. Kanazawa is a walled city in Japan.
9. Nagano is the most mountainous prefecture on the island of Honshu.
10. Kobe is the exotic atmosphere of Japan.

Osaka - national entertainment and theater center

Osaka is the third largest city in Japan. The metropolis is full of life, energy, where there is everything you need for a great pastime. The city is more imbued with Japanese culture than the capital, the atmosphere and character of Japan are very noticeable. Residents here, according to tourists, are friendly, spontaneous, sincere. Throughout the country they are famous for their great love of food, business acumen. The culinary center of the country is concentrated here, guests can try a variety of dishes, national delicacies, restaurant and street food.

There are many sights, Osaka is called the Venice of Japan, there are many lakes, streams, canals, bridges in various architectural styles on the territory of the metropolis. Ancient temples have been preserved, which are located next to modern skyscrapers, amusement parks. Must-see places of interest in Osaka:

• Bunraku National Theatre;
• national art museum;
• ramen museum (instant noodle museum);
• chess park;
• Osaka Kaiyukan Aquarium;
• Japanese Disneyland;
• Umeda sky building;
• museum of science;
• Organic Building;
• Sumiyoshi-taisha temple;
• kingdom of crabs;
• poisonous puffer fish restaurant.

Kyoto is synonymous with traditional Japanese culture

For more than a thousand years, the historical center of the country has been concentrated here. Kyoto was the capital of Japan from 794 to 1869. The metropolis is located in the center of the island of Honshu, the old name of the city is Heian. Kyoto is based in the form of an elongated rectangle, the layout of streets, quarters, squares is correct and symmetrical. World-famous poets, artists and writers were born here. Many ancient buildings and cultural heritage sites have been preserved in Kyoto, in particular the Imperial Palace, which can be visited as part of a tour. Some city streets are listed as World Heritage Sites.

The national center of traditional practices of chado (tea ceremony), ikebana (flower arrangement) is concentrated here. This is the birthplace of kabuki, the leading center of calligraphy, sculpture, and painting.

You should definitely visit such historically memorable places as the Kyoto Gosho Imperial Palace, where the coronation ceremony of the new emperor of Japan is held, rituals, important state ceremonies, the Kyoto Imperial Residence, the Shugakuin Imperial Villa, Katsura. They can only be visited by people over the age of 18, at the entrance it is obligatory to present a passport.

Other noteworthy places in the city:

• Nijo Castle;
• Ryoanji Temple;
• Sanjusangendo Temple;
• Fushimi Inari Taisha Temple;
• bamboo forest;
• temple of Diakaku-ji;
• Gion area;
• philosophical path;
• Buddhist temple of Pure Water;
• Silver pavilion;
• Golden pavilion;
• Gardens of Kyoto.

Nara - the famous center of Buddhist culture

The city is closely associated with Buddhism, some of the temples located here have been awarded the status of World Heritage Sites and are the hallmark of Nara. There are places where tourists can learn about the history of the town. The architectural objects of the Seven Great Temples deserve special attention. Almost all of them are active Buddhist temples and occupy a very important position in the religious life of Japan.

Nara is also called a deer paradise, more than 1000 spotted deer live here, they calmly walk through the park and city streets. To get to know this ancient city and its culture better, it is recommended to visit the National Museum, which houses works of art related to Buddhism, the Prefectural Folklore Museum, Yamato Folk Park. The Memorial Museum presents photographs of the town, cultural monuments. It will be interesting to visit the Kasuga-taisha Shinto shrine, Toshodai-ji, Isui-en garden in the Japanese traditional style, Yoshikien garden, Nara-machi quarter.

Ise - the most important religious center of the country

The town is located 300 km from the capital of the state. Here is the most important religious center of the country, an object of mass pilgrimage, a repository of Shinto treasures, represented by ancient, great shrines, closely connected with the history, cultural, and spiritual life of the Japanese people. The local nature, dense landscaped hills, forests are striking.

Ise Jingu Temple is a very popular shrine all over the world. In Japan, every resident knows about it. It consists of two groups of temples - external Nike and internal Geku, dedicated to the goddess Amaterasu. In addition to the temple, guests and tourists visit the museum of fine arts, historical, agricultural museum, library. All of them are part of the sanctuary.

A famous place is the historical district of the town - Kawasaki, located along the Setagawa River. Once the area was the most important trading place, receiving more than a million pilgrims a year to the Ise-Jingu shrine. Ships entered the town along the river. Today, only the central street has survived, where you can buy various souvenirs and much more.

Tokyo is the famous capital of Japan

A huge, ultra-modern metropolis - the center of various cultures of the country, the capital of Japan. Large-scale events are held here, for example, one of the largest Kanda Matsuri festivals, the Hanami Flower Admiring Festival in Ueno Park, and the fireworks festival. Exhibitions are held in museums, musical events and musicals are held at the venues. Tokyo has several hundred art galleries, dozens of public and private museums. The Tokyo National Museum has more than 85,000 works of painting, art, and sculpture.

Life here does not stop day or night, at rush hour people seem to merge into one stream. It is easy to get lost in the city if you lose your attention even for a while. To get acquainted with the sights, feel the amazing atmosphere, you need to stay in Tokyo for at least a few months. Here, ancient Japanese traditions and modernity harmoniously merge. The oldest universities are located in the metropolis:

• Waseda
• Hosei
• Tokyo

One of the most important memorial places in the city is the Palace of the Emperor of Japan. Other noteworthy places in Tokyo:

• Edo-Tokyo Museum;
• the busiest district of Ginza in the city;
• tokyo skytree tower ;
• the Kabuki-za theatre;
• automobile museum Toyota Mega Web;
• Disneyland;
• Tokyo National Museum;
• temple Kotoku-in;
• geisha street;
• Asakusa quarter;
• Buddhist temple Senso-ji;
• Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ;
• Center Guy;
• Akasaka Palace;
• Tokyo Dome City.

Matsumoto - Gateway to the Japanese Alps

The town is located in the central part of Honshu, enchants with historical places. It is also called Chubu, the gate of the Japanese Alps. Kusama Yayoi, a representative of modern Japanese art, was born here. Matsumoto is divided into two parts by the Metoba River. In the south is the area of ​​ancient traditional buildings Nakamachi. Many houses have been turned into hotels, shops and restaurants. The sake distillery will be interesting for the guests of the town.

The Ukiyo-e Museum houses a stunning collection of 100,000 woodblock prints, including works by Hokusai and Hiroshige. Other objects and places of interest for tourists will be:

• Tenjin Matsumoto Fukashi Jinja Temple;
• Kaichi Gakko Elementary School;
• Museum of Folk Crafts Matsumoto.

Sapporo is a paradise for Japanese food lovers

A large metropolis located on the island of Hokkaido, is the capital of Hokkaido Prefecture. The city is young enough for the country, was founded in 1868. Sapporro is known worldwide for hosting the 1972 Winter Olympics. It is important for tourists to know that smoking is prohibited in the center of the metropolis. For this, there are specially designated places where you can get only after presenting your passport.

In February, the Odori Park Snow Festival is held here, which is attended by about 2 million people. Everyone participates in a display of sculptures, a snowball fight, and ice skating. If you ask what to try in Sapporo from food, the answer is simple - ramen. The dish, like its name, originated in this city.

Most of the sights belong to the modern era of Japan. Interesting places for excursions:

• boulevard Odori;
• confectionery factory "Isia";
• Niihama airport;
• brewery museum;
• sapporo botanical garden.

Entertainment for the whole family for every taste can be found in the Susukino quarter.

Kanazawa - the city of museums

The ancient walled city is located in the west of Honshu. The name translates as "golden swamp". Kanazawa is surrounded by the Japanese Alps, two rivers flow here:

1. Asano - feminine, gentle river;
2. The Saigawa is the only male river (it is believed).

The city is popular for tea ceremonies, traditional crafts, especially Wajima-nuri lacquerware, Kutana-Yaki pottery. Interesting museums:

• Museum of the Honda family, which presents dishes, weapons, art objects of the family;
• the art museum presents to visitors a collection of special Kutani ceramics;
• Nakamura Memorial Museum, collections for the tea ceremony, handicrafts are stored here;
• museum of handicrafts and traditional products, which exhibits interesting collections of Yuzen silk, ceramics, lacquerware, musical instruments.

Nagano - beautiful rivers and mountains

The city has many mountains, rivers, lakes, springs. Nagano is famous for its natural beauty. A very popular dish that a visitor should try is buckwheat soba noodles. The Tokakushi-Soba Museum even hosts master classes in cooking and tasting noodles. The museum exhibits exhibits that were previously used to make soba noodles.

The beauty of spring Tokyo

The Tokyo Skytree is the second tallest TV tower in the world. This graceful architectural structure of glass, concrete and metal shot up thanks to the efforts of experienced designers and engineers. The height of the building is 634 meters. Half a million people worked on this project. The grandiose Tokyo sky tree is worthy of admiration:

• be sure to organize a visit to the Tokyo Sky Tree, which strikes the imagination with its height.
• Tourists will be able to contemplate the capital of Japan, which is spread out in full view at the foot of a huge TV tower.
• There are no open areas and balconies here, so panoramic shots can only be taken through glass.
• It is noteworthy that the roof of the TV tower is located at a height of 470 meters, and the rest of the footage is the antenna.
• The first observation deck is located at a 350-meter height and can accommodate up to 2,000 people, while the second one spirals around the spire, taking up to 900 visitors.

A breathtaking spectacle opens from the grandiose height of the Tokyo Sky Tree. be sure to include a visit to the capital's TV tower, which is one of the three tallest buildings in the world.

3. Garbage Island (Tokyo)

Rainbow Bridge and a miniature Statue of Liberty on Odaiba

The futuristic city of the future is located on Odaiba Island in Tokyo Harbor. It is a walker's paradise, a holiday city glowing with thousands of lights. Why is the island called Garbage? In 1979, it was merged with a garbage dump, which did not prevent the original site from developing at a rapid pace. Garbage Island is connected to Tokyo by the Rainbow Bridge. You can get to the island by a monorail that meanders in an intricate loop over Tokyo Harbor, as well as by river trams or on a special ship resembling a space shuttle. Impressions from the tour are simply unreal! In this city of the future, the headquarters of the largest corporations are located.

The attention of travelers is attracted by the Fuji-TV titanium ball, the Aqua City shopping center, the Tokyo Joypolis rides and the 100-meter Ferris wheel. Garbage Island has a lot to see in Japan. These are a skyscraper robot, a copy of the Statue of Liberty, exhibits of the Toyota automobile brand, and a museum ship. But the island is especially beautiful at night in the light of bright lights. From the site of the "Telecom Center" offers a wonderful view of the night Rainbow Bridge.

4. Asakusa District (Tokyo)

Sensoji Buddhist Temple

The sights of Japan are unique and unrepeatable. These include the Asakusa district in central Tokyo with an old city vibe. It is here that the Japanese flavor dominates the urbanization of a huge metropolis. Interesting places and architectural monuments are located within walking distance, but you can use the services of a rickshaw.

What to see in Japan in the Asakusa area:

• Temple complex Sensoji.
• Asakusa Buddhist Temple.
• Souvenir street "Nakamise-dori".

In the Asakusa area, Japanese traditions are sacred, there is absolutely no transport on the streets, but there are many cozy restaurants and cafes with Japanese cuisine, there are souvenir shops and shops where you can buy original jewelry, sweets, magical amulets and fragrant incense.

Asakusa Kannon Temple attracts the largest number of tourists. A popular national festival, the Sanja Matsuri, is held on the territory of the shrine in May. On the approaches to the temple there are small chapels, and in front of the entrance to the main hall there is an incense burner. It is the Asakusa district that reflects the originality of Japanese culture and traditions.

5. Tsukiji Fish Market (Tokyo)

Dishes of national Japanese cuisine

Tourists have a question “What to do in the fish market?”. Indeed, fish markets are rarely referred to as attractions, but are perceived as retail outlets, but not the Tsukiji market, located in the heart of Tokyo. It has gained immense popularity with tourists who know what to visit in Japan. Every day, up to two thousand tons of fresh fish and seafood are processed here.

At three o'clock in the morning, the first workers appear at the Tsukiji Inner Market, and throughout the morning there is a brisk trade and lucrative deals. Most of the fish ends up in local restaurants, where delicious dishes are prepared from it. The main "attraction" in the market is tuna, or rather, a tuna auction. What does it mean:

• Sellers carefully select the best fish products.
• The selected carcasses are numbered and put up for sale.
• The tails are cut off the carcasses and a longitudinal incision is made.
• Buyers carefully examine the fish pulp.
• Bidding starts on a signal, and the fish is sent to customers.

When the Tokyo offices first open, the Tsukiji market is already closing. In local restaurants, you can taste delicious sushi prepared strictly according to a traditional recipe.

Check out the beautiful places in Japan in this wonderful video!

6. Sagano Bamboo Forest (Kyoto)

Path in the bamboo forest

A picturesque bamboo grove of thousands of tall evergreen trees is the hallmark of Kyoto Prefecture. It is amazing to see such a green miracle among the urban infrastructure. The smooth tree trunks of the Sagano Forest cover an area of ​​16 square kilometers. The Arashiyama tourist area is protected by UNESCO. Bamboo forest is a must-see in Japan. Sagano Forest Features:

• To explore the forest in its entirety, a bicycle is rented at the entrance to the park.
• When the wind blows, bamboo stalks make musical sounds.
• The bamboo grove is crossed by hundreds of alleys and footpaths.
• The largest bamboo stalks in the Sagano forest reach 40 m in height.
• There is a Sojen pond in the forest, on the banks of which temple buildings are located.

In Japan, they believe that bamboo protects from evil spirits, so many temples are surrounded by tree stems. In the Sagano area, baskets, boxes and some utensils are woven from durable bamboo. The natural attractions of Japan amaze with their beauty, and in this list the bamboo grove occupies one of the first places. All tourists who are in search of harmony and peace of mind should visit the Sagano Forest in Arashiyama Park. This attraction of Kyoto can be safely included in.

7. Snow monkeys in hot springs (Nagano)

Monkeys in a hot thermal spring

In the valley of the Yokoyu River, at an altitude of 850 meters above sea level, there is a unique Jigokudani snow monkey park, famous among travelers. Japanese macaques show original behavior. The area is covered with snow for a third of the year, but thanks to the presence of hot springs, snow monkeys can live in Nagano. They bask in the pools as in hot baths.

Jigokudani Park officially opened in 1964. Very soon, this unique area gained worldwide fame and popularity. What to see in Japan if not a bizarre natural area inhabited by smart monkeys? Tourists have the opportunity to take beautiful pictures of macaques and observe their behavior. Monkeys calmly withstand air temperatures down to -15 ° C. Since the species of northern macaques is on the verge of extinction, the animals are taken under protection by the relevant organizations.

In summer and spring, snow monkeys travel through the forest, jumping from tree to tree, and in the cold season they bask in the waters of thermal springs. Whole families of Japanese macaques splash in warm baths, getting real pleasure. Interestingly, dry-furred monkeys bring food to their relatives directly into the pools.

Since the springs of the park do not have fences, visitors to the protected area can freely observe the macaques. Monkeys can be filmed and photographed, but this must be done carefully so as not to frighten.

8. Golden Pavilion (Kyoto)

Golden pavilion on the shore of the “Mirror Lake”

The pearl of the architectural collection of Japan is the Golden Pavilion - Kinkakuji. The palace, covered with gold, strikes with beauty and luxury. Other attractions in Japan cannot be compared with it. The beautiful palace was built in 1397. Its walls sparkle in the sun with inconceivable beauty. Kinkakuji is part of the Rokuonji temple complex and is considered the best example of national culture. What is remarkable about the Golden Pavilion?

The architecture of the palace harmoniously combines various styles: the aristocracy of the Heian era, the simplicity of the samurai and the asceticism of the monastic cell. Unconnected architectural trends were tied together by the general design of the palace with the thinnest sheets of gold leaf.

The top of the Golden Pavilion is crowned with a figurine of a phoenix made of pure gold. She symbolizes rebirth. The three-tiered palace impresses with the symmetry of curved lines and is fully consistent with the architectural style of karae.

Particularly striking is how harmoniously the Golden Pavilion blends with the surrounding nature. The lower supports look spectacular against the background of the trunks of neighboring trees, and the building itself is located on the shore of a man-made lake. The weightless and light Golden Palace is included in the architectural landmarks of Japan.

9. Mount Fuji (Honshu Island)

Fuji-san - the sacred mountain of the Japanese

Mount Fuji is the symbol of the Land of the Rising Sun. What to visit in Japan outside the capital? You should definitely see the young Fujiyama volcano up close. The Japanese believe that the mountain was created by the gods out of chaos. This is the country's most recognizable landmark. The majestic mountain peak rises to the heavens at a height of 3776 meters. Many pilgrims climb Mount Fuji. There are stations along the way where tourists can rest. There are many entertainments in the vicinity of the mountain. Mount Fuji is encircled by five lakes in a bizarre arc:

• Yamanaka-ko is the largest lake at the foot.
• Kawaguchi-ko is famous for walking along its shore.
• Sai-ko is great trout fishing.
• Shoji-ko is a small beautiful lake.
• Motosu-ko is the clearest and deepest lake.

In clear waters in calm and clear weather, the majestic lonely Peak Fuji is reflected, as if in a mirror. Between the lakes lies the gloomy forest of Jukai, which is easy to enter, but difficult to exit, because you can get lost. Nearby there is a pleasant place for a picnic - Shiraito waterfall with a height of 26 meters. Mount Fuji is a great place to get up close and personal with Japan's natural attractions.

10. Himeji (Honshu Island)

White Heron Castle

Japan's oldest castle is Himeji, or White Heron Castle. The complex includes 83 buildings, and almost all of the buildings are wooden. Himeji is located in Hyogo Prefecture at the foot of Mount Hime. The picturesque area is complemented by a beautiful white castle - a masterpiece of Japanese architecture. The age of the castle dates back to the fourteenth century. Now it is included in the UNESCO heritage list. After crossing the wooden bridge, tourists enter the territory of the castle complex, based on a high stone foundation.

It is noteworthy that Himeji was built as a defensive structure, but the architectural features of the castle did not lose from this at all. Graceful smooth lines of the white walls of the Heron Castle are in perfect harmony with the beauty of the surrounding nature. On the territory of the complex there are several defensive towers, a garden with beautiful trees and a deep protective moat.

On the roof, lined with tiles of natural tiles, the coats of arms of the families that owned the White Heron Castle in different eras are engraved. In the heart of the Castle on the highest point is the central tower. Entangled courtyard passages, gates and defensive posts lead to it. The castle captivates tourists with its beauty and graceful lines.

Sightseeing in Japan: what else to visit while in Japan

A great convenience of rest here is regular transport links between the islands, that is, you can, living in one part of the country, travel to any city. Information about attractions in different prefectures will help you make a list of priority places to visit.

11. Nara City (Honshu Island, Nara Prefecture)

Deer in Nara park

The sights of Japan are not only temples and castles, but also entire cities. One of them is Nara or the City of Deer - a storehouse of architectural monuments and masterpieces of culture and art.

About 1600 deer roam freely through the streets of the beautiful city. The first emperor of Japan is said to have descended from heaven on a reindeer sleigh. In the 6th-7th centuries, the city of Nara was the first capital of the country. The main attractions of Japan in the City of Deer:

• Todaiji Temple,
• buddha statue,
• Isween Garden,
• Kofuku-ji Temple,
• sarusawa-ike pond,
• Shrine Kasuga Taisha,
• ara-ike pond,
• statues of heavenly generals.

Walking around the city of Nara is a real pleasure. Hundreds of deer roam the streets at ease, they are loved and revered. On every corner you can buy deer food and treat meek animals. And at the Sarusawa-ike pond, you can see a lot of turtles. They crawl ashore and bask in the sun. A trip to Nara is sure to appeal to art lovers. The Todai-ji temple has a giant statue of Buddha, and the building itself is perhaps the oldest among the wooden temples.

12. Toshogu Shrine (Nikko City)

Carvings at Toshogu Shinto Shrine

Toshogu Shinto Shrine is the main architectural monument in Nikko. The shrine is dedicated to the shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu. This is the most striking figure in Japanese history, since under him the unification of Japan into a single state was actually completed. Toshogu Shrine impresses with the beauty of the lines and magnificent carvings, the authorship of which is attributed to the famous sculptor Hidari Jingoro. The sights of Japan would lose a lot without this picturesque temple. Its main features:

• Sculpture of a sleeping cat nemuri-neko.
• Lush colored carvings decorating the temple.
• Figures of outlandish elephants with claws.
• The building of the sacred stable, which alone is not varnished.
• Symbolic image of monkeys - patrons of horses.

Fine carvings made by a skilled craftsman to decorate the Toshogu Shrine attract the attention of tourists from all over the world. The shrine is located 130 km from Tokyo. Often the Japanese themselves come to see the famous temple. In addition, the city of Nikko is a national natural park covering a vast area.

To get to the Toshogu shrine, pilgrims must pass under a nine-meter granite gate, then under a bronze gate 6 m high. After bathing in a sacred spring, guests can visit a beautiful temple. The legendary shrine is also the burial place of the shogun. It is definitely worth visiting here.

13. Peace Park in Hiroshima (Nakajima County, razed to the ground)

Genbaku dome after nuclear bombing

The Land of the Rising Sun in the post-war period is the new sights of Japan. The most famous among them is the Peace Park in Hiroshima, dedicated to the memory of the victims of the atomic bomb. A memorial ensemble is located on a vast territory, which includes the Museum of the World, monuments, a ritual bell and a cenotaph. At the memorial site, demonstrations are held in memory of the tragedy of Hiroshima. The cenotaph is a symbolic grave of the victims of a nuclear strike, whose names are imprinted on the memorial plaque.

In the middle of the 20th century, the ensemble of the Peace Park added a pedestal of the Japanese girl Sadako Sasaki with a paper crane in her hand. This is a kind of cry of despair of the Japanese, who suffered from the impact of the atomic bomb. The girl died of radiation sickness ten years after the terrible tragedy. She dreamed of making a thousand cranes and making a wish, but she did not have time ...

The fountain of prayer on the territory of the Peace Park appeared a little later. It symbolizes the desire of people who are thirsty to live after an atomic explosion, and embodies the suffering of thousands of people who were not given water. And on the Flame of Peace monument, an eternal flame burns, lit back in 1964. The sad monument of architecture is a tribute to the memory of all the Japanese who suffered from the explosion of the atomic bomb.

14. Itsukushima Jinja Temple (Hiroshima Prefecture, Miyajima Island)

Red torii in the water

One of the brightest examples of temple architecture in Japan is Itsukushima-jinja, located above the sea. The gate of the shrine, which is included in the sights of Japan, is located at Mount Misen. Their height is 16 meters. Bright gates expressively emphasize the surrounding landscape, and it is simply impossible to confuse them with anything else.

The Itsukushima-jinja complex consists of several shrines, each dedicated to a different deity. The main temple of the complex was built in honor of the goddess Mikoto, who patronizes navigation. Most of the temple buildings are located right on the water on wooden piles. The Hall of Thousand Mats is impressive. It is believed that it was built from only one camphor tree trunk.

A treasury is located on the shore of the bay protected from the wind. It contains ancient items, masterpieces of art and ancient scrolls donated to Itsukushima-jinja Temple. Every tourist can experience the validity of the statement that the passage under the temple gates will bring good luck and wealth.

15. Imperial Palace (Tokyo)

Imperial Palace in the park area of ​​Tokyo

What could be more luxurious and richer than the Imperial Palace? The sights of Japan are amazing, but the Imperial Castle cannot be compared with anything else. It is located in the park area of ​​Tokyo, in general, palace buildings occupy an area of ​​740 hectares. Government offices of the country are located near the Imperial Palace. But the modern neighborhood does not in the least disturb the beautiful palace architecture.

A snow-white building with a gabled roof, the castle consists of two floors and one underground. The interiors of the Palace are made in the Japanese style. The castle is surrounded by protective ditches filled with water. Around the palace is a picturesque natural oasis.

The castle is the residence of the Japanese emperor. To the great regret of tourists, you can only admire the palace architecture from afar - walks around the territory of the Castle are not allowed. However, twice a year, those wishing to visit the Imperial Palace can take advantage of a unique chance - after the celebration of the New Year and on the Emperor's Birthday, access to the internal gardens of the complex is open.

16. Hakone

Mount Fuji and Lake Ashi in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park
Panorama of the Owakudani Volcanic Valley in Hakone

Honshu Island is one of the main islands of the Japanese archipelago, it is here that most of the population lives and the main attractions of the country are concentrated. And one of the interesting places located in Kanagawa Prefecture is the village of Hakone, which is famous for its hot springs. It is also one of the best Japanese resorts where you can feel the national spirit, visit a number of historical buildings, open-air museums, relax in super-equipped hotels and spa complexes. And most importantly, it is from here that you will have the opportunity to see with your own eyes the familiar peak of Mount Fuji, covered with a snow-white cap of snow.

17. Todai-ji Temple

Main hall of Todai-ji temple in Nara city

Nara, Japan's national heritage city, is home to a plethora of Buddhist temples, the key of which is Todaiji Temple. This is the most important symbol of the city, a sacred place of multi-million pilgrimage, where daily services began in the 8th century and continue to this day. In addition, the temple is also interesting in that it is the world's largest wooden structure, and also keeps the world's largest bronze statue of Buddha within its walls. In order to get inside the temple, you need to go through the ancient wooden Nandaimon gate, through a hall filled with clubs of smoking incense, and only then the Big Buddha Hall opens to your eyes, where a majestic statue of a deity looks from its 15-meter height.

18. Shibuya area

Top view of the diagonal crosswalk in Shibuya area at dusk

Sakura has long faded, but is Japan still far from golden autumn? The scorching July heat and high humidity are extremely difficult conditions for active travel, but locking yourself up in a hotel is not an option for active guests of the country. If you're looking for things to see in Japan in July, we recommend visiting the Shibuya quarter - a place of entertainment for Japanese youth, packed with fashion boutiques and department stores. The fact is that sales start in the most prestigious stores of Shibuya this summer month, and the area turns into a real paradise for shopaholics and just those who have had time to get bored with the standard set of consumer goods, and leaving a tidy sum in expensive boutiques is an unaffordable luxury.

19. Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Kiyomizu-dera Temple on a picturesque mountainside

On the slope of Mount Otova in Kyoto, there is an extensive temple complex that has become a symbol of the city. This is the Temple of Pure Water, or Kiyomizu-dera, erected in the name of the goddess of fortune. The buildings of the complex, which have survived to this day, date back to the 30s of the 17th century. Today, the temple is a place of millions of pilgrimages - about 3 million people visit it a year. In addition to the building of the temple itself, on its territory there are: a 3-tier pagoda, a library of sutras, several pavilions, as well as a number of small temples. There is also an observation platform, from where you can enjoy beautiful views of Kyoto from above. A notable feature of this site is that it was built using 139 supports, but without a single nail.

20. Matsumoto Castle

The beautiful medieval Matsumoto Castle in the eastern part of the island of Honshu

On the island of Honshu, in the city of Matsumoto, it is recommended to visit the ancient Crow Castle, so named because of the black facade and side towers resembling outstretched wings. The unusual architecture of the building is in extraordinary harmony with the beauty of the surrounding nature. The area of ​​​​all the buildings of the castle and the adjacent territories is grandiose - it is 39 hectares. This includes the citadel itself, ditches filled with water and a fortress wall surrounding the entire territory. Notable features of the complex are a series of chaotically arranged steep staircases and intricate arrangement of rooms, all of which were erected in such a way as to disorient enemies who raided during the Middle Ages during the period of provincial feuds.

21. Kamakura

Long sandy beach in Kamakura

One of the oldest Japanese cities is located south of the Japanese capital, on the island of Honshu. This place attracts numerous tourists with countless attractions, coupled with a comfortable climate - there is no sweltering heat or severe frosts. It seems that the ancient city has seen everything in its lifetime - from tsunamis and typhoons to earthquakes and wars. And yet, today, about 170 ancient monuments of great historical value have been preserved here. Among them are temples with numerous Buddhist relics, ancient sculptures and statues of Buddha, as well as museums, hotels, restaurants and even white sand beaches, perfectly equipped for a comfortable stay.

22. Kegon Falls

Kegon Falls and Chuzenji Lake in Nikko National Park

August is another month of hot heat in Japan, not the best time for active trips to museums, theaters and other cultural sites, the heat very quickly deprives you of strength. Choosing what to see in Japan in August , we recommend to pay attention to natural sights - such as the Kegon waterfall, the crystal waters of which give visitors life-giving coolness. And the walk itself through the most beautiful Nikko National Park, in which the waterfall is located, will give you a boost of vivacity and indelible impressions from the dizzying views. The height of the waterfall reaches hundreds of meters, and there are several observation platforms for its observation. As a bonus of an impressive walk, there are 12 more small waterfalls that fall nearby, through numerous mountain crevices.

23. Whirlpool Naruto

Tidal whirlpools in Naruto Strait

One of the extraordinary natural phenomena of Japan periodically occurs in the Naruto Strait, which connects two prefectures - Tokushima and Hyogo. The strait itself, connecting the Indian Ocean with the Inland Sea of ​​Japan, has a small width - just over a kilometer. Twice a day, the current first raises and then lowers the level of the Inland Sea, thereby creating a difference between the levels of the outer ocean and the sea. At the same time, the speed of the current increases to 15-20 km / h, and an amazing phenomenon arises - whirlpools, the diameter of which reaches 20 meters. Usually in summer the whirlpools are larger than in winter. Regular cruises are made to the strait, allowing you to see the whirlpool in all its beauty.

24. Okinawa Island

Okinawa Island is an attractive holiday destination

Going to the south of Japan, the sights of which are not so numerous, you should definitely include a visit to Okinawa, an island that is part of the Ryukyu archipelago, in your travel plan. It is the warmest prefecture in Japan, and the only one located in the subtropical zone. That is why the island is so attractive for recreation all year round, and even in the coldest January period, the average daily air temperature here does not fall below +17 degrees. The restored Shurijo Palace reminds of the greatness of the medieval kingdom of Ryukyu on the island. The ruins of fortifications that have become World Heritage Sites are also dispersed throughout the island.

25. Sapporo Snow Festival

Handmade Snow and Ice Sculptures at the Sapporo Snow Festival Akinori YAMADA

Japanese culture is extremely rich and extraordinary, and many traditions of Japan were formed under the influence of some important historical events. Some traditions are thousands of years old, while others are quite recent. A living example for the latter is the Sapporo Snow Festival. In 1950, several high school students from one of the city's schools erected 6 animal sculptures in Odori Park. Since then, every year at the end of winter, the townspeople arrange a grandiose modeling of figures from snow and ice. Since the 2000s, the festival has become the country's largest winter event and is included in Japan's attractions for children in travel programs.

26. Kusatsu Hot Spring Town

Kusatsu Hot Springs at Yubatake Central Plaza

The Land of the Rising Sun is located on lands of volcanic origin, so hot springs are a common phenomenon here. Since time immemorial, the inhabitants of the country have used the beneficial properties of volcanic waters to heal the soul and body. Kusatsu is one of the most famous resorts of international importance, based on the treatment of thermal waters. There are a lot of groundwater outlets here, and the central place is occupied by Yubatake - the largest of the sources. The water leaving here crosses the city square along specially laid channels, and at the end of the path it falls down a small waterfall - the flow rate in this place reaches 4 thousand liters per minute.

27. Kumano-kodo Pilgrim Trail

One of the ancient Kumano-kodo pilgrimage trails

Kumano-Kodo is a large system of branching pilgrimage trails on the island of Kii. Arriving here, pilgrims have the opportunity to visit places of ancient power, periodically stopping at guest houses located along the route. For centuries, pilgrims of the Shinto religion moved along these paths, and it was believed that the forests of the peninsula were inhabited by Shinto deities - kami. Over time, with the spread of Buddhism, kami began to be presented as incarnations of the Buddha. All trails are famous for their fabulous beauty, they lead through mountain forests, rivers and along the ocean coast. Almost all the routes of the famous trail converge in the city of Hongu, where the most important sacred temple - Taixia is located.

28. Sankei-en Garden

Cozy green corner in Sankei-en naitokz garden

One of the most beautiful, quiet and cozy places in Yokohama can be called Sankei-en Garden. This is a spacious park area of ​​about 180 square meters. kilometers. Here you can relax from the bustle of the city, admire the amazing beauty of nature, see a lush variety of plants collected from different parts of the world, as well as visit a number of historical buildings - there are 17 of them in total. In particular, this is a 3-story pagoda of the 16th century, brought from Kyoto , Chosyukaku Tea House, a medieval peasant house from Gifu Prefecture, introducing visitors to the life of ordinary people. The impression is complemented by picturesque reservoirs and fragrant flowers - sakura, azaleas, chrysanthemums, lotuses.

29. Minato Mirai (Yokohama)

Aerial view of Minato Mirai 21 district of Yokohama city

The central area in the city of Yokohama is the business district of Minato Mirai, the most attractive for visitors to Greater Tokyo. Those who come here have the opportunity to do shopping, various types of recreation and entertainment, visit cultural monuments and a number of thematic exhibitions. Notable places include the 70-story Landmark Tower, the Sky Garden observation deck with breathtaking views of the harbour, museums of art, toys, industry, history, as well as the Silk Museum and the Nipon Maru Maritime Museum. The area continues to develop actively, and the list of its attractions is constantly updated with interesting new items.

30. Dotonbori Street

Facade of the Kani Doraku crab luminous sign on Dotonbori JKT-c

Another major business district you can visit in Osaka is Dotonbori, located on the river of the same name. The quarter is famous for a large selection of shops and boutiques, as well as an impressive number of restaurants, due to which the area acquired a second name - Kuydaore, or "the city of gourmet dishes." In addition to shopping and visiting restaurants, here you can have fun in karaoke centers, relax in saunas, visit comedy shows, kabuki theaters, visit galleries showing various types of art. With the onset of dusk, the quarter is especially transformed, this is facilitated by the original lighting of buildings and neon illumination of shop windows.

Next to Japan is another technologically advanced country - Singapore. While in Japan, consider visiting this country as well. Read about and get inspired for your next trip to Asia!

Landmarks of Japan. The most important and interesting sights of the cities of Japan: photos and videos, descriptions and reviews, location, sites.

All All Architecture Healing Places for walking Museums Nature Entertainment Religion

Any unesco

the very best

Nijo Castle

Kyoto, Nakagyo-ku, Nijo-dori Horikawa Nishi iru, Nijojo-cho, 41

The National Treasure of Japan, the UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of the most beautiful castle complexes in the "Land of the Rising Sun" - all this is about the surprisingly powerful and at the same time elegant Nijo Castle (Nijō-jō), located in the very "heart" of the city of Kyoto.

the very best

Imperial Palace in Tokyo

Tokyo, 1-1 Chiyoda

In the center of Tokyo, in the dense greenery of trees, the palace of the emperor of Japan is hidden surrounded by canals, moats and ancient walls. The entire palace complex is spread over an area of ​​almost 7.5 square meters. km. Access to it is limited, but since 1968 its East Park has been open to the public on certain days.

the very best

Shinjuku

Tokyo, Shinjuku

One of the most popular and lively areas of Tokyo is Shinjuku. Once a small town near the post office, today Shinjuku is teeming with black suits of disciplined office workers during the daytime, and at night it burns with billions of lights that literally ripple in the eyes of vacationers.

the very best

Kabuki-za theater

Tokyo, Chuo-ku, Ginza, 4-12-15

Kabuki-za, located in the "heart" of Ginza, the main theater in Tokyo. This is not just one of the most unusual temples of Melpomene in the world; for the Japanese, it is an object of national pride and reckless adoration. It's hard to say what is so catchy for an extremely smart nation: rich costumes or crazy makeup.

• Next page Track.

Amazing Japan, ancient and ultra-technocratic at the same time, attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists every year, despite the tedious and expensive air travel. This is not surprising: where else can you climb snow-capped peaks, swim in the warm sea, walk along busy ancient streets, and then climb skyscrapers that are dizzying in height during one trip?

The sights of Japan are also diverse, so everyone will find something of their own in the Land of the Rising Sun and take away only the best memories.

Temples of Japan

First of all, Japan is known for its unique temples, some of them literally amaze with their beauty even those who are not very fond of temple architecture. The city of Kyoto was especially distinguished in this regard, where only about 1600 Buddhist temples that survived the Second World War remained. Of course, it is unlikely that there will be an opportunity to explore everything in one visit; so it makes sense to first of all see those temples, the external decoration of which is legendary. For example, Ginkaku-ji (another unofficial name is "Silver Pavilion"). At first it was assumed that the whole of it would be covered with silver in honor of the goddess Kannon, but the outbreak of war prevented this plan. The pavilion was conceived for the rest of the shogun. This is a quiet, unusually harmonious place, and in its present form the temple is beautiful without any silver.

When visiting temples in Japan, you should follow the rules of decency: do not speak loudly either in the temple building or on its territory, take off your shoes at the entrance (sometimes temples give out special slippers), and also pay attention to prohibition signs. As a rule, you can take pictures, but it is better to check with the ministers.

But if you happen to visit Osaka, then remember: south of this city is the Koya-san shrine. It was built in the 9th century BC, and from the temple itself to the foot of the mountain departs the famous pilgrimage trail, which is already many hundreds of years old.

However, it is not necessary to carry out the entire ascent on your own two feet - you can climb the mountain by cable road in a few minutes. The views are worth it!

Castles of Japan

In addition to shrines, numerous Japanese castles are also open to tourists. In total, about 50 ancient castles have been preserved in the country; some of them, such as the castle in Hiroshima, were destroyed during World War II and subsequently rebuilt. Others have been preserved since the 17th century in their original form. These include, in particular, the legendary Kochi Castle, which is located in the prefecture of the same name. It cannot be said that any high-profile military dates are associated with the castle: Koti is known for being the only intact inner ring of fortifications preserved in it.

Japanese architecture

In modern Japan, there are many buildings erected in a variety of eras - from temples that were created long before the advent of our era, to "high-tech" skyscrapers. Cities are therefore very eclectic, but something always subtly connects new and old buildings. A distinctive feature of Japan is that here, in the most outwardly incongruous things, inner harmony is almost always felt.

If you want to see Japan through the eyes of the captain of the first Russian round-the-world trip Ivan Kruzenshtern, who visited it in 1804-1805, you should go to the countryside: real traditional Japanese houses - “minka” - have been preserved in the form of continuous buildings only there.

Monuments of Japan

Japanese monuments are not at all like the large-scale sculptures we are accustomed to that adorn squares and parks in the CIS. Some of them are about a thousand years old or more; this is a unique cultural heritage that has come down to the present from the ancient representatives of Buddhism. In Nara Prefecture, in the well-known Horyu-ji area, for example, you can see Buddhist statues that have survived many centuries. Believers still come to them to pray and ask for help in enlightenment.

In the same prefecture, there is an ancient city with the same name - Nara, also full of wonderful ancient monuments. In particular, there are many examples of such art in the magnificent Heijo Palace.

In Japan, there are many monuments related to wartime, but they do not really resemble our stelae of military glory. In Hiroshima, there is a monument in the form of the skeleton of a stone house destroyed by bombing, and higher, on the mountain, there is a sculpture depicting the bomb itself dropped on the city. In the city of Urawa there is a pumpkin and sweet potato monument - despite all its outward comicality, it reminds the Japanese of how hard life was during the years of wars and disasters and that they were saved from inevitable death. In Tokyo, tourists are attracted by the monument to the Akito dog breed, much loved by the Japanese, as well as to one of the actors of the famous kabuki theater, who played countless samurai during his career.

Theater of Japan

Having seen enough of the static objects of art and culture, you will probably want to observe something in dynamics. Well, then it will be a high time to visit the classical Japanese theater. Of course, in this context, the tradition of kabuki comes to mind first: all these rich costumes, bright makeup, unearthly fantasy wigs and exaggerated, exaggerated behavior of actors on stage. The stage itself in such a theater is usually dynamic, with many rotating platforms and secret hatches. All this allows you to quickly change the scenery, the actors are able to disappear and appear almost instantly in these conditions. Dramatic and vibrant.

But, of course, Japanese theatrical art is known not only for kabuki. The cultural importance of the puppet show tradition, bunraku, should not be underestimated. "Puppets" in such a theater are about half the height of a person, each is controlled by three: the main puppeteer and two assistants. The puppets have all the possibilities for rich facial expressions, so they give a very realistic impression.

And another important trend in the theatrical life of Japan is the Noh tradition, which is very ancient: it first appeared somewhere in the 14th century. Actors play a variety of roles, using large painted masks instead of make-up, which can change during the course of the performance. Talking and singing proceed at a very monotonous even pace, accompanied by a choir and traditional orchestral instruments for this country. The stage for plays performed in the Noh style is usually located on a plot of land under the open sky.

Islands of Japan

Hokkaido is the northernmost and second largest island in Japan, one third of which is covered with forests. Once upon a time, the island was inhabited by the Ainu tribes - judging by the descriptions of travelers, immigrants from Eastern Siberia. Later, when the Japanese began to move north, the Ainu suffered the same fate as the American Indians. However, like the Indians, the Ainu partially survived. Now there are several Ainu settlements in Hokkaido, which are supported by the Japanese authorities - both for scientific purposes and to attract tourists.

But Hokkaido is interesting not only for its anthropological features. The unique nature is preserved in 6 national parks, which are also nature reserves. There are also about 10 lakes with hot mineral springs of volcanic origin.