Top 20 Must Visit Landmarks in Japan by City
Japan is a country that offers a rich blend of history, culture, nature and modernity. From ancient temples and shrines to futuristic skyscrapers and theme parks, there are many landmarks in Japan that showcase its diverse and fascinating attractions. Here are some of the most famous landmarks in Japan sorted by city that you should not miss on your trip.
Tokyo
Tokyo is Japan’s capital and largest city, as well as one of the most dynamic and cosmopolitan cities in the world. It is a city of contrasts, where tradition and modernity coexist in harmony. Tokyo has many landmarks that reflect its history, culture, innovation and entertainment.
Senso-ji Temple
Senso-ji Temple is the oldest and most visited temple in Tokyo. It is dedicated to Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy, and attracts millions of pilgrims and tourists every year. The temple is accessed through a massive red lantern gate called Kaminarimon, followed by a lively shopping street called Nakamise, where you can buy souvenirs and snacks. The main hall of the temple features a large bronze incense burner and a golden image of Kannon.
Meiji Jingu Shrine
Meiji Jingu Shrine is a Shinto shrine that commemorates Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, who modernized Japan in the late 19th century. The shrine is located in a vast forested park in the heart of Tokyo, creating a contrast with the urban surroundings. The shrine complex consists of several buildings, including an inner garden, a treasure museum and a wedding hall. The shrine is also famous for its iris garden, which blooms in June.
Tokyo Tower
Tokyo Tower is a landmark of Tokyo’s skyline and a symbol of its post-war recovery and modernization. It is a 333-meter-high steel tower that was inspired by the Eiffel Tower and was completed in 1958. The tower serves as a broadcasting antenna and an observation deck, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the nearby Mount Fuji. The tower also features a museum, a cafe and a souvenir shop.
Tokyo Skytree
Tokyo Skytree is the tallest structure in Japan and the second tallest in the world. It is a 634-meter-high tower that was opened in 2012 as a new broadcasting and observation facility. The tower has two observation decks, one at 350 meters and one at 450 meters, that offer breathtaking views of Tokyo and beyond. The tower also has a shopping mall, an aquarium and a planetarium at its base.
Shibuya Crossing
Shibuya Crossing is one of the most iconic and busiest intersections in the world. It is located in Shibuya, one of Tokyo’s most vibrant and fashionable districts. The crossing is where multiple streets converge and thousands of pedestrians cross in all directions at once when the traffic lights turn red. The crossing is also surrounded by neon signs, giant screens and buildings that create a dazzling spectacle of urban life.
Ginza
Ginza is Tokyo’s most famous shopping district and one of its most glamorous areas. It is where you can find upscale boutiques, department stores, art galleries, restaurants and cafes that cater to the high-end market. Ginza is also known for its architecture, such as the Wako Building with its clock tower, the Sony Building with its showroom and the Kabukiza Theater with its traditional performances.
Kyoto
Kyoto is Japan’s former capital and cultural heart, as well as one of its most beautiful cities. It has over 1,000 years of history and boasts more than 2,000 temples and shrines, many of which are designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Kyoto also preserves its traditional arts, crafts, cuisine and festivals that reflect its rich heritage.
Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine
Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine is one of the most iconic and popular landmarks in Kyoto. It is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice and prosperity, and features thousands of vermilion torii gates that form a tunnel-like path up the sacred mountain. Along the way, you can also see many stone fox statues, which are believed to be the messengers of Inari. The shrine is open 24 hours a day and offers stunning views of Kyoto from the top.
Kinkakuji Temple
Kinkakuji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is another must-see landmark in Kyoto. It is a Zen Buddhist temple that dates back to the 14th century, but was rebuilt in 1955 after being burned down by a monk. The temple is famous for its gold-leaf covered exterior that reflects beautifully on the pond below. The temple grounds also include a garden, a tea house and a museum.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Kiyomizu-dera Temple is one of the oldest and most revered temples in Kyoto. It was founded in 778 and is named after the pure water that flows from a nearby waterfall. The temple is best known for its wooden stage that juts out over the hillside, offering a panoramic view of the city and the cherry blossoms in spring. The temple also houses a sacred spring, a love shrine and a pagoda.
Gion
Gion is Kyoto’s most famous geisha district and one of its most atmospheric areas. It is where you can see geisha and maiko (apprentice geisha) walking along the narrow streets lined with traditional wooden houses, tea houses and restaurants. Gion is also home to several cultural attractions, such as Yasaka Shrine, Kennin-ji Temple and Gion Corner, where you can watch various performances of Japanese arts.
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is one of the most beautiful and tranquil landmarks in Kyoto. It is a forest of towering bamboo stalks that sway gently in the wind and create a soothing sound. The bamboo grove is located in Arashiyama, a scenic area that also features other attractions, such as Tenryu-ji Temple, Togetsukyo Bridge and Monkey Park Iwatayama.
Osaka
Osaka is Japan’s third largest city and one of its most lively and energetic ones. It is known for its friendly people, delicious food, vibrant nightlife and modern attractions. Osaka also has a rich history and culture that can be seen in its landmarks.
Osaka Castle
Osaka Castle is one of the most famous landmarks in Osaka and one of the most important historical sites in Japan. It was built in the 16th century by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a powerful warlord who unified Japan. The castle was destroyed and rebuilt several times, and the current structure dates from 1931. The castle features a five-story main tower that displays various exhibits and artifacts related to its history. The castle is also surrounded by a moat, walls, gates and a park that is famous for its cherry blossoms.
Dotonbori
Dotonbori is Osaka’s downtown district and possibly its most visited attraction, famous for its bright neon signboards and tasty delicacies. Dotonbori is located along the Dotonbori Canal, which runs parallel to the main street where you can find many shops, restaurants, bars and entertainment venues. Some of the most iconic signs in Dotonbori are the Glico Man, the Kani Doraku Crab and the Ferris Wheel.
Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street
Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street is one of the most popular shopping streets in Osaka and Japan. It is a covered arcade that stretches for about 600 meters and offers a variety of shops, from fashion brands to souvenir stores to food stalls. Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street is also connected to other shopping areas, such as Dotonbori, Amerikamura and Namba.
Other Cities
Hiroshima is a city that rose from the ashes of the atomic bombing that devastated it on August 6, 1945. It is a city that symbolizes peace and resilience, as well as hope for the future. Hiroshima has many landmarks that commemorate the tragic event and its aftermath, as well as other attractions that showcase its culture and nature.
Atomic Bomb Dome
Atomic Bomb Dome, also known as Hiroshima Peace Memorial, is a haunting reminder of the atomic bombing that devastated Hiroshima on August 6, 1945. The dome was originally an exhibition hall that was one of the few structures that survived the blast near the hypocenter. The dome was preserved as a symbol of peace and a memorial for the victims of the bombing. It is part of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, which also includes a museum, a cenotaph and a flame.
Itsukushima Shrine
Itsukushima Shrine is a Shinto shrine that is located on the island of Miyajima, near Hiroshima. It is famous for its floating torii gate, which appears to be rising from the sea at high tide. The shrine was built in the 12th century and is dedicated to the three daughters of the god of seas and storms. The shrine complex consists of several buildings that are connected by boardwalks over the water. The shrine is also known for its scenic views, especially at sunset.
Nara was Japan’s first permanent capital from 710 to 784, and it remains one of its most culturally rich cities. It has eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites that include some of Japan’s oldest and largest temples and shrines. Nara also has a natural charm that can be seen in its parks, gardens and wildlife.
Todai-ji Temple is one of the most impressive landmarks in Nara, the ancient capital of Japan. It is one of the largest wooden structures in the world and houses the largest bronze statue of Buddha in Japan. The temple was built in the 8th century and was once the head of all Buddhist temples in Japan. The temple complex also includes several smaller halls, pagodas and deer that roam freely around. The main attraction of the temple is the Daibutsuden (Big Buddha Hall), which contains the 15-meter-tall statue of Vairocana Buddha, also known as Daibutsu (Big Buddha). The statue is flanked by two Bodhisattvas and guarded by two Nio statues at the entrance. The hall also displays some models of the former and current buildings and a pillar with a hole that is said to grant enlightenment to those who can squeeze through it. Another notable building in the temple complex is the Nigatsudo Hall, which offers a nice view of the city and hosts the Omizutori ceremony every March. The ceremony involves monks drawing water from a well and carrying torches along the balcony of the hall, creating a spectacular scene of fire and sparks.
Himeji is a city in Hyogo Prefecture, known for its magnificent castle and beautiful gardens. Himeji is also a convenient base for exploring the nearby attractions of Mount Shosha and Engyoji Temple.
Himeji Castle is Japan’s most famous castle and one of the best surviving examples of feudal Edo architecture. It is also known as the White Heron Castle because of its elegant white exterior and graceful shape. The castle was built in the 17th century and features several towers, gates, walls and moats that form a complex defensive system. The castle also offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
Shirakawa-go
Shirakawa-go is a rural area in Gifu Prefecture, famous for its traditional farmhouses that have steep thatched roofs in the gassho-zukuri style, which means “praying hands”. The roofs are designed to withstand the heavy snowfall in winter and to provide a large attic space for the cultivation of silkworms, which was the main source of income for the villagers. The farmhouses are also built without nails, using only wooden joints and ropes. The villages have preserved their rural landscape and their unique culture and traditions.
Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji is Japan’s highest and most sacred mountain, as well as its most recognizable natural landmark. It is an active volcano that has a symmetrical cone shape and a snow-capped peak. It is also a popular destination for hiking, climbing and sightseeing, especially during the summer season when it is open to the public. Mount Fuji can be seen from various places in Japan, such as Tokyo, Hakone and Lake Kawaguchi.
Kamakura is a coastal city in Kanagawa Prefecture, that was once the political center of medieval Japan. Kamakura has a rich history and culture that can be seen in its numerous temples, shrines and monuments. Kamakura also has a relaxed atmosphere and scenic views of the ocean and the hills.
Kotoku-in (Great Buddha of Kamakura)
Kotoku-in is a Buddhist temple that is famous for its giant statue of Buddha, known as the Great Buddha of Kamakura. It is one of the largest bronze statues of Buddha in Japan and dates back to the 13th century. The statue stands at 11.4 meters high and weighs about 121 tons. It was originally housed in a wooden hall, but it was destroyed by storms and earthquakes over the centuries. The statue now sits in the open air and attracts many visitors who admire its serene expression.
