Top 10 Most Beautiful Cities In Japan

For such a small country, Japan combines a variety of striking landscapes, from high and majestic mountains and hills to flat farmlands and beautiful palm-lined beaches. Combine this with Edo-era structures, serene shrines and majestic temples for a truly impressive result. We have checked and compiled for you the top 10 most beautiful cities in Japan.

Here is what we chose for you:

Hida Takayama

Hida Takayama is also called “Little Kyoto” because of the large number of shrines, temples and picturesque buildings of the 18th century. Isolated from the outside world by the Hida Mountains, the city exudes ancient Japanese charm. The mountains rise above river markets, traditional shops and Japanese-style inns. San Machi Suji Street is the heart of the city’s historic district, dotted with old dark wood buildings with blue curtains made from traditional Japanese noren fabric. The narrow streets are bordered by small canals with running water, which are still used, as in the Middle Ages, for washing clothes and clearing snow. The city is known for its excellent sake and breweries with large cedar balls hanging over the entrance.

Karuizawa

Karuizdawa is a charming town hidden under the imposing Asama, one of the most active volcanoes in Honshu. Just an hour from Tokyo by high-speed train, it is a popular day trip for tourists who are attracted by mesmerizing views of yellowed leaves in autumn and cooler temperatures in summer. In 1957, in Karuizawa, Emperor Akihito met his impoverished fiancee, Empress Michiko, making the city a reputation as an ideal destination for romance and travel together. It is also ideal for hiking and visiting hot springs, and more than 60 different species of birds live in Yacho-no-mori or Wild Bird Forest.

Otaru

When much of western Hokkaido was colonized in the late 19th century, the small town of Otaru became an important fishing port. Later, the terminal station of the first Hokkaido railway was built here. Old warehouses lined the city’s canals, and along with the rest of the prefecture, it is one of the most famous places in Japan for seafood lovers. The canal area is always full of Japanese tourists, but you can find a quieter spot by walking closer to the city center, where the stately mansions rise. During the Snow Lights Festival in February, the city is especially beautiful, decorated with glowing snow lanterns and lights.

Nara

Japan’s first permanent capital and home to eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Nara is one of the country’s most culturally rich cities. Although Nara served as the capital of Japan for only about 70 years, it was during these years that the country’s art, literature and culture grew into traditions that are still associated with Japan. Located less than an hour’s drive from Kyoto and Osaka, Nara is a remarkably compact city, with most of its historical sites in the beautiful Nara Park. In addition to the temples, the park is known for its population of inquisitive deer roaming freely around the territory. The most impressive feature is the Todaiji Temple, a huge wooden building that houses one of Japan’s largest bronze Buddha statues.

Mahome

Magome, a postal town in the Kiso Valley, was once an important stopover for Edo period travelers on the long journey from Tokyo to Kyoto along the Nakasendo Trail. The main street of the city, a wide stone path lined with beautiful restored old buildings, is closed to car traffic. Aside from admiring the amazing architecture, one of the top reasons to visit Magome is to hike the Magome-Tsumago Trail, a five-mile stretch of the Nakasendo Trail. The trail runs through forests, farmland and breathtaking waterfalls, ending in the equally lovely town of Tsumago. Along the way, there are many signs and signs in English, and for those who, after the end of the hike, do not want to return to Magome on foot, there is a shuttle bus.

Kanazawa

Kanazawa was one of the largest cities in Japan that escaped bombing during World War II, and as a result, many parts of the old city remain intact today. The narrow streets of Kanazawa pass through old districts where geisha and samurai once lived, Edo period canals, beautiful temples, and modern museums. The city’s most famous landmark is the 17th century Kenroku-en Garden, which is considered one of the most beautiful and amazing in the country. Despite its many historical sites, Kanazawa is not stuck in the past at all – it is a vibrant, modern city with many different shops and good restaurants.

Hakone

Located less than 100 kilometers from Tokyo, Hakone is a great city to get away from the hustle and bustle of the capital. Hakone is part of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, where you can enjoy impressive mountain landscapes, picturesque lakes and exciting hiking trails. A highlight of the city is Lake Ashino-ko, with stunning views of nearby Mount Fuji and the Hakone-jinja torii gate that rise above the water, creating the perfect traditional Japanese landscape. The city is also famous for amazing onsen (hot springs), traditional Japanese inns and art museums. Despite the fact that Hakone can be visited in one day, it is definitely worth staying here overnight.

Kagoshima

The warm climate, friendly locals and lush vegetation make it no wonder why Kagoshima is often compared to Naples. Attractive Kagoshima, the capital of Kagoshima Prefecture and one of the southernmost cities in Kyushu, is dotted with palm trees, wide streets and beautiful flowers. The amazing bay overlooks the active Sakarajima volcano, which rises above the waters of the coast. The most stunning views can be seen from July to August, when a scattering of fireworks is shot over the bay every evening. Due to the frequent eruptions of the volcano, the city is covered with a surreal layer of white ash – a mesmerizing sight!

Furano

Furano is a small town located in the center of Hokkaido, famous for its gentle rural landscapes. July is the most popular time to visit as it is at this time that the fields of the city are buried in an incredible purple lavender bloom. The famous Tomita Farm sells a variety of lavender products in cafes and gift shops, including lavender ice cream. Equally beautiful colorful flowers that almost completely cover the surrounding fields and resemble Dutch tulip fields. In winter, Furano is one of the country’s most popular ski resorts, renowned for its excellent powdery snow, perfect for skiing or snowboarding.

Kamakura

Once an important political center, Kamakura is sometimes called the “Kyoto of East Japan” because of its centuries-old Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines, old wooden houses, and historical sites. The city’s impressive natural landscapes provide an impressive backdrop to these beautiful religious sites. In addition to excursions to the city’s historic landmarks, there are several excellent hiking trails through the hills. The city is especially popular during the summer months, attracting crowds of tourists with its sandy beaches and relaxed atmosphere.