9 Places to Visit in Japan Before You Die

With so many amazing places to visit in Japan before you die,  it will be a tough decision were to go and spend your time. Should you spend time in one of the largest cities in the world taking in every ounce of culture, history, and everything in sight? It could take months before you feel like you’ve seen it all. Perhaps you want to find some of the most chilled out places of the country. You want to find your zen, be surrounded by nature, enjoy the traditional architecture of the shrines and temples, and just be. If the city isn’t your thing, and being too zen is too boring for you, perhaps you should head for the hills. Japan provides its visitors with a plethora of activities. Everything from hiking volcanoes, to white water rafting, and even skiing on some of the best slopes in the world.

So which vacationer are you? Perhaps you’re the one who wants it all, which in this case, works out just fine. Japan really can provide it all. It’s also easy to navigate, so no worries on just wanting to pick up and leave to switch up the scene.

Since there are only nine places to visit in Japan that are beautiful and safe, that are on this list, one must wonder where are the others? That’s for another list, another time. After getting to know some of the crazy facts about Japan that you won’t believe, you will surely be ready to pack those bags and go! Here are all places that are safe for foreigners to vacation at, while providing you with the ultimate experience. So go! Go explore Japan…

 

9. Jigokudani Monkey Park

Are seeing monkeys bathing in a natural hot spring spa a dream of yours? OK, maybe it is now that I mentioned it. If so, that can definitely happen in Japan’s Jigokudani Monkey Park. The wild Snow Monkeys clammer down the cliffs and take their afternoon dip before heading back to the forests for their relaxing night’s sleep.

8. Kyoto

Here is a zen city if you ever saw one. It’s spiritual and peaceful vibes are felt throughout. The people are on another level when it comes to being chill. I guess one of the reason might be because they are surrounded by temples and shrines. When I say surrounded, I mean it would take months to see all of them. Arashiyama bamboo forest is exceptionally tranquil and the Golden Pavilion and Fushimi Inari-Taisha are two of the more beautiful shrines.

7. Nikko

If you haven’t had enough temples, then Nikko should be your next stop. Cedar-lined pathways take you from one temples to the next in this vibrantly colored and intricately designed complex of temples and shrines. This area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

6. Mount Fuji

Soaring up 3,776 meters in the air, Mount Fuji is the highest mountain in the country. People come from across the world to clammer up this massive volcano. Depending on your agility, the climb can take from three to eight hours.

5. Osaka

Osaka is a city that offers the chaotic scene that many cities offer, but also has a more chilled out side. Kita, or “North” is where you can have the lively scene of a city that you’re used to. There’s a more sophisticated crowd, swanky shops and cafes, and shopping malls. The South, or “Minami,” is where you will find more people who tone it down a notch and who own more family-run establishments on a smaller scale.

4. Fukuoka

Here’s another city that is pretty low key for a city. There’s a posh central area in the city with excellent shopping, cafes and bars. There are many yatai, which are food stalls, all selling the famous dish, ramen noodles. Learn to prepare sushi, enjoy the coastal views, and even watch a sports game and support the local team.

3. Hokkaido

Ready for a white powdery day of fun? If skiing is your thing, this is the place to go. This is the best place to enjoy any snowy winter sport you can imagine. They boast the best snow in the country! Snowboarding, skiing, ice climbing, you name it. Coming during the summer? That’s OK, you can enjoy kayaking, mountain biking, and water rafting.

2. Takayama

This is an excellent spot for those wanting to enjoy an architectural tour. Old wooden homes and establishments line the pedestrian streets. It will certainly put you in a time warp. This old town dates back to the Edo period and features charming cafes, restaurants and even a few sake breweries.

And, the best place to visit in Japan before you die is: Tokyo

Well of course Tokyo is on the list. It’s one of the biggest cities on earth and boast over 10 million people. What can you make of this chaotic city? This place brings you an immense amount of culture through its hidden towns and incredible history and architecture. If it’s flavors you want, it’s flavors you’ll get, Tokyo is a spectacular place to indulge in everything Japanese cuisine can give you. Combine this with the awesome shopping, landmarks, and other places of interest, Tokyo will be keeping you busy for a while.

There are so many fantastic places to visit in Japan before you die. Why not check it out soon?