8 Most Beautiful Places in Japan

Japan is a picturesque country studded with scenic spots. Here are those recognized as the most beautiful places in Japan.

Itsukushima Shrine

1. Itsukushima Shrine

  Location: northwest shore of Miyajima Island, Hiroshima
  Opening Hours: all day

Itsukushima Shrine, famous for the big torii gate on the sea, is a most impressive place in Japan. Undoubtedly, this world heritage site is a representative of Japan, alluring many tourists as well as shutterbugs for such a beauty between the verdant mountain and the clear blue sea. As the tide rises, you can get close to the red torii gate by a boat.

2. Mt. Fuji

  Location: across Yamanashi and Shizuoka prefectures
  Opening Time: all day; climbing season: early Jul.-early Sept.

You can never forget Mt. Fuji when travelling to Japan. It’s also one of the most beautiful places throughout the country. The lofty peak capped with snow is very attractive, which can be seen at the mountain foot. Lake Kawaguchi and Lake Ashi are the best spots for Mt. Fuji viewing on the opposite sides of this mountain. During Fuji Shibazakura Festival from late April to May, the boundless incredible carpet of Shibazakura flowers makes Mt. Fuji more wonderful to see by Lake Motosu.

3. Arashiyama, Kyoto

  Location: Ukyo Ward, northwest to Kyoto downtown
  Opening Hours: all day

Arashiyama is an amazing area in Kyoto for the natural charm, where the Sagano Romantic Train will take you go through the valley along the river. Sagano Bamboo Forest there is known around Japan, as you feel like stepping into a secret realm while walking on the secluded path surrounded by luxuriant bamboos.

Arashiyama

4. Furano Flower Fields, Hokkaido

  Location: Furano, central area of Hokkaido
  Opening Hours: 09:00-17:00 generally, depending on the farms

In the heart of Hokkaido, the city Furano becomes a most beautiful place in Japan for the vast flower fields. Tulips, azaleas, lavenders, sunflowers, cosmos, etc. are showy in succession from May to October. Especially, when lavenders are blossoming in June and July, Furano turns to be the oriental Provence. To see gorgeous lavenders, the most memorable sites are Farm Tomita and Hinode Park, where you can immerse in the immense lavender fields thoroughly.

5. Higashiyama Area of Kyoto

  Location: Higashiyama Ward, east of Kyoto city
  Opening Hours: depending on each attraction

Kyoto is a fantastic city with the historical district of Higashiyama in its east, which is stunning apart from the natural landscapes in the west. Kiyomizu-dera Temple is a must-see there with the national treasure – Kiyomizu Stage of the main hall embraced by lush plants. The rest of this ancient temple is also beautiful, while Gion is also popular to meet a geisha and watch geishas’ performance. In the antique area, you can enjoy the historical atmosphere by strolling along old Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka streets as well. 

6. Himeji Castle

  Location: in the center of Himeji city, Hyogo Prefecture
  Opening Hours: 09:00-17:00 (stop entry at 16:00)

Although there are many old castles in Japan, Himeji Castle is a special one. You can’t find another in white all over Japan. Because it has been highly preserved, it is known as "the most famous castle in Japan". Everyone would marvel at its beauty as this white castle has been praised as an egret. The pure white exterior walls and eaves look like the egret opening out its wings and about to fly indeed, say nothing of it against the full-blown cherry blossoms.

7. Shirakawa-go

Shirakawa-go

  Location: west by north to Takayama city, Gifu Prefecture
  Opening Hours: all day

The countryside is breathtakingly scenic in Japan likewise. Shirakawa-go, the world heritage village with gassho styled houses, is your best choice to enjoy the beauty of Japan’s countryside. The original environment is pleasant while exploring the local culture and traditions. In particular, it becomes more beautiful when snow covers the village, like an ice and snow wonderland could been discovered in fairytales only. Come and have a look there!

8. Nara Park

  Location: east of Nara city, Nara Prefecture
  Opening Hours: depending on the individual attractions insides

Nara Park, also a most beautiful place in Japan, covers a large area and some famous attractions in the east of Nara city. Backed by Mountain Wakakusa, Nara Park is a national scenic spot with the famous deer. With cherry blossoms and fall foliage everywhere, Nara Park sees its peak season. After feeding the well-tempered deer, you can also take a walk around Nara Park to see fine historic architecture of Todaiji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine, or explore the local history into Nara National Museum.