12 Best Cities To Visit In Japan That Make Your Trip Worth It!

12 Best Cities To Visit In Japan That Make Your Trip Worth It!

Jun 06, 2024Jon Ng

Japan is an attractive country to visit with its vibrant cities, advanced communication system, and rich culture.

Thousands of visitors come to this country every year to explore its natural scenes, Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines, tall skyscrapers, world-class food, and ancient palaces.

You will never get tired of traveling around, and even one trip isn’t enough to visit all the cities of Japan.

map of Japan with cities

But, if it’s your first trip, you should go for the best ones.

So, here I am presenting you with the best cities to visit in Japan that have easy access across the country and are filled with loads of attractive spots.

Now, be prepared to explore each one cause you never know what specialty the next one offers you.

Here's a quick glance on the best cities to visit in Japan

  • Tokyo
  • Kyoto
  • Nagoya
  • Yokohama
  • Kobe
  • Fukuoka
  • Horishima
  • Nara
  • Sapporo
  • Osaka
  • Sendai
  • Kanazawa
  • Takayama
  • Beppu
  • Himeji
  • Nagasaki

Top Cities To Visit In Japan

As Japan is a state where the new and old culture coexist side by side, often travelers get confused about which city to visit or not.

Some prefer to see the advanced side when few want to know about their ancient lifestyle.

That’s why I have listed down from major cities like Tokyo to small Japanese cities that tourists often skip as they don’t know much about those.

And, at the end of this writing, you will indeed find the answer to this question, “What city in Japan should I visit?”

Also, I will mention the approximate accommodation cost and meal price, which will help you estimate your tour budget.

Note that the prices may vary according to season and which region you choose to stay.

Let’s start with the heart of Japan, which is none other than Tokyo.

Tokyo

Tokyo is the capital of Japan, which offers captivating tourist spots and is also a great place to live as a foreigner.

It’s one of the most populated cities globally, with around fourteen million people living here. 

But, what makes this place great is that it has everything to suit the taste of each type of traveler. 

The moment you like to experience the dazzling city view, you may go to the Tokyo Tower, which is situated in the Shiba-Koen district of Minato.

Tokyo tower

The observation deck of this tower provides an incredible panorama of the city.

However, the night view is my favorite cause it shows how lively this place is with blinking light.

You can also visit the Electric Town (Akihabara) area, a significant shopping place for video games, manga, anime, electronics, and computer-related goods.

https://twitter.com/TokyoLuv/status/1631632262130180097

Hence, If you are a tech person, you will feel like entering into a dream paradise that can offer you vibrant technological stuff.

For those who wanna explore the ancient site, you may head to the Sensoji Shrine, the oldest shrine in Tokyo.

Other worth visiting places are The Imperial Palace and the Museum of Modern Art, situated next to each other in Chiyoda City.

When you want to escape from the chaotic streets of the town, a green space like Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden will make your mind and body peaceful.

However, what does this metropolis have to offer to the couples?

As I said already, it is equipped with every type of fun place, and there is also a romantic dating spot here called Chidorigafuchi Moat.

 

Tokyo is indeed the most visited city in Japan because of its diversity and easy accessibility.

You may spend some quality time with your partner by riding a boat on the lake.

This place looks straight out from a fairy wonderland during spring, with soft pink cherry blossoms covering up the whole area.

Cherry blossom in Tokyo

And, when you are hungry, you can taste some delicious food from restaurants and food stalls.

How about eating some mouth-watering dishes at an affordable price?

Although Tokyo is an expensive city, yet you will find some top-class Michelin stars restaurants that won’t even rob your pocket.

Katsuzen, Tsuta, Zuisetsu, Saito are some of the famous restaurants that you can consider visiting.

Things to do in Tokyo 

  • Visit Sensoji Temple
  • Meiji Jingu
  • Tokyo Skytree
  • Tokyo Tower
  • Tokyo National Museum
  • Ueno Park
  • Tokyo Disneyland
  • Ghibli Museum
  • Imperial Palace
Hotel & Meal Cost (Approximately)
Hotel Room: $45 to $246/ night.
Per Meal Cost: $9 to $15. (inexpensive restaurant)

Kyoto

Kyoto is surely one of the most beautiful cities in Japan as it is the home of a long-listed UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

This city displays quiet charm with shrines and tranquil gardens everywhere.

Some of the must-see spots in Kyoto are Nijo Castle, Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine, The Golden Pavilion, Kiyomizu-Dera Temple, Katsura Imperial Villa, and The Byōdō-in Temple.

However, if you ask for my personal favorite, I will say The Arashiyama Bamboo Forest.

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

It is one of Japan's unique locations that provides the tourists with a spectacular view and a calming sound of clattering bamboo.

In case you choose to visit Kyoto, I will suggest you not miss this place cause it’s such a place that resembles earthly heaven.

For an exceptional sightseeing experience, you should go to the entertainment district of Gion.

There you will find geishas walking around the streets lined up with the wooden folk houses.

 

Kyoto is Japan’s religious center with over 1000 Buddhist temples.

Rather than spotting geishas on the street, you can also witness their dance performances during Miyako Odori, a traditional dance festival.

Geisha dance performance kyoto

This feast occurs during spring, so if you are willing to come to Japan during this period, you should not miss this performance.

As this town has both traditional cafes and world-class restaurants, you can enjoy some traditional food as well as modern cuisine, whatever you prefer.

To name a few restaurants in Kyoto are Honke Owariya, Gozanbo, Gion Karyo, Ippudo Ramen, Den Shichi Sushi Saiin, etc.

In case you are a vegan, you may go to Ajiro, famous for its vegetarian Shojin cuisine.

Moreover, you don’t even need to worry about finding affordable accommodation within the town as Kyoto is one of the cheap cities in Japan according to living costs.

Things to do in Kyoto

  • Fushimi Inari Taisha
  • Kinkaku-ji
  • Nishiki Market
  • Nijō Castle
  • Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama
  • Kyoto Tower
  • Kyoto National Museum
  • SAMURAI & NINJA MUSEUM with EXPERIENCE
  • Hokan-ji Temple
  • Kōdai-ji Temple
  • Kyoto Gyoen National Garden
  • Kyoto Gyoen National Garden
  • Kyoto Aquarium
Hotel & Meal Cost (Approximately)
Hotel Room: $32 to $182/ night.
Per Meal Cost: $6.5 to $8.5. (inexpensive restaurant)

Nagoya

Nagoya, located in the largest city of the central Chubu region of Japan, is one of the most popular tourist spots in the country. 

With its unmissable landmarks, unique attractions and remarkable shopping, it’s no wonder why it draws admirers from around the globe. For those who want to truly enjoy the vibrant city, here’s why Nagoya should be the next city you add to your bucket list.

As one of the prime ports in Japan, Nagoya can offer something for everyone. For those curious to explore, the city is home to two iconic landmarks. First, there’s the Nagoya Castle, with its imposing walls and white towers, a sight not to miss! 

Then, there’s Atsuta Shrine, offering an air of spirituality and tranquility to visitors. Both are located in close proximity to each other, allowing sightseers to take in the wonders of these revered locations.

For families, the city’s kid-friendly amusement parks make it an ideal spot for an action-filled, fun-filled holiday. 

Legoland Japan and Nagashima Spa Land promise a unique theme park experience. With their wealth of rides and activities, they’re sure to be a hit with children of all ages.

Shopping fans can delight in Nagoya’s renowned shopping district. Its two covered shopping malls, Sakae and Osu, offer an unforgettable array of goods, from designer handbags to quirky souvenirs. 

Adjacent to these is a bustling open-air shopping area which is especially popular during festivals.

As a hub for Japan’s Shinkansen bullet trains, you can travel to and from the city easily and conveniently. This makes it even easier to immerse yourself in Nagoya’s range of delightful attractions.

In a nutshell, Nagoya has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re looking to explore the city’s culture, ride some thrilling rides or go on a shopping spree, you’re sure to have a memorable time in this unique destination.

Things to do in Nagoya

  • Nagoya Castle
  • Nagoya City Science Museum
  • The Tokugawa Art Museum
  • Legoland Japan Resort
  • Toganji
  • Inuyama Castle
  • Meijo Park
  • Miwa Shrine
Hotel & Meal Cost (Approximately)
Hotel Room: $18 to $300/ night.
Per Meal Cost: $5.10

Yokohama

Japan is an incredible nation known for its culture, rich history, modern life and stunning scenery. But, Japan is also home to some of the world’s most interesting and exciting cities to visit, with each offering something unique. 

One of these cities is Yokohama, located in the Tokyo urban area and Japan’s second most populated city. 

If you’re looking to explore the vibrant culture and splendid attractions that Japan has to offer, then Yokohama is well worth visiting.

Just a 20-minute train south of Tokyo Station, Yokohama is full of places to explore, experiences to enjoy and adventures to be had. 

No visit is complete without experiencing Yokohama’s renowned bay, which is best seen from the many viewpoints and observation decks around this iconic port city. 

Relaxing boat trips are also available around the bay, offering you superb views of the area. 

Of course, one of the most popular attractions is Yokohama’s Chinatown with its bustling atmosphere, traditional temples and delicious cuisine. 

Chinatown

Visitors can sample some of the many different types of food available in the area before spending hours exploring the vibrant streets and markets.

When you’re looking for something a bit more cultural, the Minato Mirai area of the city is a must. Here, you will find modern architecture, entertainment complexes, shopping centers, beautiful gardens, amusement parks, outdoor markets and many more. 

Other attractions in the vicinity include the huge Cosmo World amusement park, which contains a variety of thrill rides, the Museum of Yokohama and Yokohama Stadium – both of which are home to several different sports teams. 

For an overview of the city, visitors can take the Yokohama Bay Cruise for a one hour journey around the port area.

When planning a trip to Yokohama, you should also remember that there’s a plethora of great accommodation options. 

Whether you’re after a luxurious hotel or a cozy guesthouse, you’re sure to find something suitable. You can also explore the city using its highly efficient public transport system or by joining one of the many guided tours that are available.

With so much to see and do, it’s no surprise that Yokohama is one of the best cities to visit in Japan! Getting there is easy, and exploring this vibrant port city is an unforgettable experience. 

From Chinatown’s traditional temples to views of world-renowned bay, Yokohama offers something for everyone.

Things to do in Yokohama

  • Yokohama Chinatown
  • Yokohama Cosmoworld
  • Zoorasia
  • Sojiji
  • Yokohama Motomachi Shopping Street
  • Kirin Brewery Yokohama Factory
  • Yokohama Anpanman Children's Museum
  • Kanazawa Zoological Gardens
  • Hokokuji Temple
  • Isshiki Beach
  • Enoshima Iwaya Cave
Hotel & Meal Cost (Approximately)
Hotel Room: $27 - $143
Per Meal Cost: $6.25

Kobe

Kobe is one of the most beautiful cities in Japan, providing visitors with stunning views of a mountain range one side and the sea on the other. 

The city is the sixth-largest in Japan, encompassing the area between Osaka and Kyoto, making it an ideal location for travelers wanting to combine both excursions in one stop. 

Kobe is also renowned for being the birthplace of one of the most famous Japanese dishes, Kobe beef

Although it's a little hard to find outside of Kobe, its intense marbling, robust flavor, and tender texture make it a truly unique culinary experience. It's best to explore the city's various eateries and vibrant atmosphere to truly savor this delicacy.

Other than Kobe beef, the city of Kobe is also home to many other cultural attractions. 

Whether one enjoys strolling along the harbor or taking in the misty atmosphere of Nunobiki Falls, the city has a lot to offer. 

Some popular sites include the Ikuta Shrine, Harborland, Kitano Ijinkan, and Meriken Park. All of these destinations showcase something beautiful and unique that guests are sure to enjoy.

Ikuta Shrine
ikuta shrine

Those who enjoy shopping and nightlife will find no lack of activities in Kobe. Around the harbor, there are many restaurants and venues designed to provide a pleasant atmosphere to grab a bite to eat or simply relax. 

The many arcades, tourist attractions, and souvenir shops scattered around the city offer an excellent opportunity to explore and shop local goods.

Kobe is a vibrant city and a great place to explore for anyone visiting Japan. And with Kobe beef on the menu, the experience is even more memorable. So why not come and see what the city has to offer? Its stunning views, fascinating sites, and delightful cuisine await.

Things to do in Kobe

  • Ikuta Jinja
  • Kobe Harborland
  • Kobe Ōji Zoo
  • Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum
  • Nunobiki Waterfall
Hotel & Meal Cost (Approximately)
Hotel Room: $25 - $125
Per Meal Cost: $ 6.60

Fukuoka

Fukuoka is a bustling yet historical city that is one of the main tourist destinations for anyone visiting southern Japan. It is famed for its abundance of incredible restaurants, unique shopping experiences, and vibrant nightlife. 

As the largest city on the island of Kyushu, Fukuoka is an ideal destination for anyone seeking a mix of traditional Japanese culture and urban exploration.

Fukuoka is renowned for its incredibly impressive culinary scene, with a wide selection of mouthwatering dishes available to sample. Freshly caught seafood is widely available in a variety of different flavors and styles. 

Some of the most popular items include ramen and yakitori, but there's also an abundance of traditional Japanese meals and even global cuisines. Fukuoka is a great destination for foodies looking for exceptional dishes.

The shopping in Fukuoka rivals that of any other city in Japan. It's a great destination to stock up on souvenirs or find the perfect gift for any occasion. 

Everywhere you turn you'll find something you won't be able to turn down. From traditional Japanese artwork to the latest fashion, there's something for everyone.

Fukuoka's nightlife is also renowned among tourists. There are ample bars and restaurants scattered throughout the city, ranging from prestigious drinking establishments to electrifying nightclubs. 

A night on the town in Fukuoka promises never-ending fun and amusement, whether you're looking for a place to chat with friends while sampling sake or a neon-lit club to hit the dance floor.

Whether you're looking for amazing travel experiences or unique cultural encounters, Fukuoka is a great destination for all kinds of travelers. 

From its hustling streets to its incredible food and nightlife, there is something for everyone in this city. 

No matter what you're looking for, Fukuoka is a fantastic place to explore and experience an amazing part of Japan.

Things to do in Fukuoka

  • Ohori Park
  • Kushida-jinja Shrine
  • Fukuoka Tower
  • Marine World
  • Fukuoka Castle Ruins
  • Shofukuji
Hotel & Meal Cost (Approximately)
Hotel Room: $20 - $200
Per Meal Cost: $7.20 

Hiroshima

Hiroshima is one of Japan’s must-see cities as it carries a sorrowful history.

On August 6th, 1945, this town was almost totally destroyed by the atomic bomb.

This past history is perhaps the main reason why so many foreigners come to visit this place.

Now, want to know the dark memory of this city? Then, you should go to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.

Here, you can watch the skeletal remains of the Atomic Bomb Dome and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, which documents the bombing of this city during WWII. 

Atomic Bomb Dome Hiroshima

At the heart of this town, you will find the Hiroshima castle, covered in black glaze and ornate wood.

The castle is the home to a shrine and a Samurai museum. 

A Samurai performance occurs right outside the palace walls every week, popular among locals and foreigners. 

Samurai performance

In case you are a car enthusiast, the Mazda Museum will let you experience some outstanding vehicle displays and an overview of Mazda’s history.

When talking about the food, you should try the Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, a type of pancake stuffed with cabbage, a fried egg, bean sprouts, noodles, and sweet sauce.

In case you stay in this town for a day, I suggest you travel to Miyajima Island to see Itsukushima Shrine and the well-known “floating” torii gate.

During high tide, the torii gate seems to float on the blue waters, and while the current is low, you can walk up to the gate.

Things to do in Hiroshima

  • Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum - East Building
  • Atomic Bomb Dome
  • Hiroshima Castle
  • Children's Peace Monument
  • Hijiyama Park
Hotel & Meal Cost (Approximately)
Hotel Room: $38 to $109/ night.
Per Meal Cost: $7.5 to $12. (inexpensive restaurant)

Nara

On a high-speed train from Kyoto, you can reach Nara in less than one hour.

So, if you are staying in Kyoto, you can easily have a day trip to this city. But, when you want to explore the whole town, stay at least one night.

It is one of the most interesting cities in Japan because you will find over 1,000 deer roaming freely in Nara Park, which is a rare sight.

Remember that these deer hold National Treasure Status, and you should not bother or harm them anyway.

Nara Park deer

After spending some time with these adorable animals, you can head to Tōdai-ji Temple, constructed in 752.

This shrine is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has Japan’s most giant bronze Buddha statue, which is 15 meters tall.

Near the entrance of the temple grounds, you will find The Todaiji Museum that has a splendid collection of Buddhist art.

Another nearby temple is Kasuga Taisha, where you can arrive by walking on a stone lantern-lined path. 

On the evening of 3rd February and 14 to 15 August, a feast takes place in this shrine called Mantoro, which features around 3,000 lanterns placed along the pathways.

Kasuga Taisha lantern illumination

The effect is truly magical, and if you are in Nara on these dates, don’t miss it.

When you wanna enjoy a little hike, you may walk up to the summit of Mount Wakakusa.

It’s also this city’s top place for Sakura viewing. The grassy slope of this mountain is lined by cherry trees that start to bloom around early April.

Hotel & Meal Cost (Approximately)
Hotel Room: $39 to $174/ night.
Per Meal Cost: $6.58 to $13.5. (inexpensive restaurant)

Sapporo

Wanna flex some skiing & snowboarding techniques?

Well, coming to Sapporo will give you the opportunity to showcase your snow activity skills.

It is also one of the coolest cities in Japan, where you will find the finest snow powder in the country.

Sapporo snow skiing

 

Sapporo, best known as the host of the 1972 Winter Olympics, is the capital of the northern island of Hokkaido.

But, what makes this city so special is the Sapporo Snow Festival, which attracts ice sculptors from everywhere in the country to build massive ice statues and castles.

At night, colorful lights illuminate the statues, which is one of the main charms of this celebration.

As it is held every February, if you come here this month, don’t forget to attend this celebration.

sapporo snow illumination

While in town, I will ask you to take some time to pay a visit to the Ishiya Chocolate Factory and try their special white chocolate.

Then, have a walk around the Historical Village of Hokkaido, which is an open-air museum presenting sixty-period structures, each of them showcasing what the initiated life was once in this region.

After that, you may head to Mount Moiwa and take a cable car to the top.

From there, you can see the open view of this city and other natural spaces surrounding it.

Hotel & Meal Cost (Approximately)
Hotel Room: $34 to $121/ night.
Per Meal Cost: $8.7 to $14. (inexpensive restaurant)

Osaka

Compared to other cities in Japan, Osaka has the nicest foreigner-friendly atmosphere.

The locals are extroverted type, making you feel like you are in your home country.

Osaka is also renowned as Japan’s street food capital. Some famous snacks are takoyaki and okonomiyaki.

Takoyaki street food

As it’s a small town, you will get to experience an almost rural Japanese charm here.

During WWII, this city was heavily bombarded, that’s why it lacks historical sight compared to the other cities in Japan.

However, the good thing is, you can buy some vintage clothes and electronics at better prices than in Tokyo.

Two must-see spots of this city include the Open Air Museum of Japanese Farmhouses and the National Bunraku Theatre, where you can watch the ancient art of Japanese puppetry.

Osaka Castle is another great place to visit. There you can take a Gozabune boat and admire the 16th-century palace from the water.

Gozabune boat osaka castle

This region is also home to many onsens (thermal baths), which some people think of as a spa, but trying it out will give a unique cultural experience.

Hotel & Meal Cost (Approximately)
Hotel Room: $28 to $111/ night.
Per Meal Cost: $6.5 to $10. (inexpensive restaurant)

Sendai

Sendai is known for its different types of festivals. Among them, the most popular one is Tanabata Matsuri.

It is also recognized as the “star festival”, which is held on the 7th day of the 7th month of every year.

As stated by a Chinese legend, the two stars Vega and Altair, which are generally detached from each other via the milky way, can meet on this day.

Tanabata Festival

Because the 7th month of the year nearly matches with August instead of July, following the lunar calendar, that’s why Tanabata is still celebrated on 7th August in some areas of Japan like Sendai.

On the other hand, in some regions, it is celebrated on 7th July.

One trendy Tanabata custom is writing wishes on a piece of paper and then hanging them on a specially built bamboo tree, hoping for that wish to come true.

Tanabata wish paper

This city's other attractions are the Museum of the Forest of Depths of the Earth, SS30 observation deck,  Sendai Castle Ruins, and Zuihoden Temple.

From here, you can also head towards the nearby Matsushima that provides one of the best views in Japan.

Hotel & Meal Cost (Approximately)
Hotel Room: $36 to $100/ night.
Per Meal Cost: $5.70 to $8. (inexpensive restaurant)

Kanazawa

Kanazawa has some fantastic ancient architecture, such as Kanazawa Castle and the attractive gardens surrounding it.

At the bottom of the castle, the Nagamachi Samurai district is located where you can catch a glimpse of the old lifestyle of samurai and their families.

Nagamachi Samurai district

In a different region of the town, the Higashi Geisha District will let you experience the chaya or teahouses where the geishas used to entertain the wealthy people once.

Here you can drop by the Ochaya Shima Museum to learn about how the geishas used to live.

Many of the former geisha houses have been transformed into guest houses or restaurants.

Kanazawa Geisha district

However, most of the houses are dedicated to the exhibition of past memories and are now a nationally assigned Important Cultural Asset.

You can also visit the Gold Leaf Sakuda Shop and buy a souvenir decorated with gold leaf, which is a traditional local craft.

Also, try some wagashi sweets and a cup of green tea at the nearby teahouse to refresh your mind and stomach!

Shortly, Kanazawa is one of the best cities in Japan for tourists who are fascinated to know about some past culture of this country.

Hotel & Meal Cost (Approximately)
Hotel Room: $36 to $209/ night.
Per Meal Cost: $7.8 to $12. (inexpensive restaurant)

Takayama

Travelers often visit the major cities in Japan like Tokyo, Osaka, or Sapporo and miss out on something stunning like Takayama. 

Situated deep in the mountains of central Japan, this city is prominent for the great preservation of its Edo Period (1603-1868) ancient center, known as the Sannomachi.

Long ago, this city was under the direct control of the shogunate.

Now, the town attracts visitors to see the Edo streetscape and buildings.

Hida folk village

During the winter season, these ancient houses, the Kusakabe Folk Crafts Museum and the Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine look straight out of a picture while covered in soft snow.

If you stay in Takayama overnight, I suggest you sleep in ryokans, small inns that provide traditional accommodations, authentic local food, and tea ceremonies.

However, I like the Hida No Sato Folk Village most, which is only a 20-minute drive away from the city center.

It’s an open-air museum including over 30 historical thatch-roof houses. 

Shirakawago village

Another world-famous village is Shirakawa-go that also has traditional houses which are over 250 years old.

But, you have to leave the city for a short day trip to see this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Hotel & Meal Cost (Approximately)
Hotel Room: $44 to $171/ night.
Per Meal Cost: $5.70 to $8. (inexpensive restaurant)

Beppu

Located in Oita Prefecture, Beppu is Japan’s iconic Onsen region. There are hundreds of hot springs with diverse atmospheres in this city.

But, these onsens are divided into eight areas, and that’s why Beppu is also known as Beppu Hatto, which means 8 springs in Japanese.

You can choose to stay in an onsen ryokan and enjoy the warm spring.

Beppu hot spring

To name a few such inns are Yamada Bessou, Kannawaen, Nagominoyado Mutsuki, Hotel Umine and Nogami Honkan.

After spending a hectic travel day, you may relax here and let all your worries wash out.

The steam and mist that floats throughout the streets will make you feel like flying on an Aladdin magic carpet as the air looks like drifting clouds!!

Beppu city view

I believe coming to Beppu will be worth every sweat of yours as it has some impressive architecture and a quiet, laid-back feel to the place.

Hotel & Meal Cost (Approximately)
Hotel Room: $47 to $316/ night.
Per Meal Cost: $7.80 to $13. (inexpensive restaurant)

Himeji

Himeji is placed in the Kansai region of Japan.

The top attraction of this city is the magnificent Himeji Castle. It’s both a designated national treasure and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Nearby the castle, there are some samurai houses and Japanese-style gardens that you can explore.

Himeji Castle

As, in less than one hour from Osaka or Kyoto, you can reach this place, you don’t even need to stay overnight here to explore all the spots.

Hence, a short day trip to this city will be enough to visit all the attractions. 

If you choose to eat your lunch here, you may try out some delicious food from a nearby restaurants like Yamayoshi, Iccyoura, Ju Ju, or Takopia.

Hotel & Meal Cost (Approximately)
Hotel Room: $36 to $77/ night.
Per Meal Cost: $6.5 to $8. (inexpensive restaurant)

Nagasaki

Although the nuclear attack in WWII destroyed Nagasaki, it slowly rebuilt over the following few decades.

You can have a glance at that history in the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum. Also, a walk around Peace Park will let you see many memorials and monuments.

Mount Inasa stands in this city from where you can have a “10 million dollar view”!!

Well, don’t get panicked!!

As the view of Nagasaki is one of the prettiest in Japan, it has a nickname which is 10 million dollar view.

Nagasaki night view

To experience it, you need to take a ropeway cable car up to Mount Inasa.

Once you climb to the observation platform, you will have a 360-degree view of the whole city and the port. 

Off to the bay of Nagasaki, Hashima Island is located, which is an abandoned place.

Hashima island

Once, this land was used as a forced labor camp and to access undersea coal.

The scene of the destroyed structure of an island from the famous James Bond movie Skyfall was shot here, and now it’s open for visitors.

So, don’t miss out on going here anyway in case you are a big fan of this blockbuster movie.

Hotel & Meal Cost (Approximately)
Hotel Room: $41 to $226/ night.
Per Meal Cost: $8.76 to $12. (inexpensive restaurant)

Top Cities to Visit in Japan On Your First Trip

I know that it’s hard to visit all the cities I mentioned when you are in this country for a short vacation.

However, if you are in Japan for the first time, I suggest you plan a tour to the following cities at least because these have the most tourist attractions.

  1. Tokyo.
  2. Kyoto.
  3. Osaka.
  4. Hiroshima.

Also, these places are well-connected by the bullet train, so you can easily travel from one to another.

A 10-day trip will be enough to cover up all the locations of these cities.

In case you are on a long break, try to visit all the locations that I talked about.

I can ensure you that it will be worth spending every moment in this country and you will return home with utmost satisfaction.

Okay, dear, we are at the end of our journey.

Let’s wrap it up here.

Conclusion

Hopefully, you have no questions remaining in your mind regarding the best cities to visit in Japan after going through this writing.

Whether you come here with your family, friends, or alone, you will be able to have a great time here.

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