Partners Information: Inherently safe, one-flight away, and offering a plethora of culturally contrasting experiences, it’s no wonder Australian travellers are yearning for a trip to Japan. And the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics certainly put the destination back on the world stage at a time when we were all in need of a ‘pick-me-up’.
Deciding on your ideal Japan trip can seem daunting however, whether it’s your first time or for a return visit, but the good news is that Japan has so many incredible places to visit you really can’t go wrong.
To help restart your Japan travel planning, here’s a roundup of some of Japan’s most popular must-see destinations like Tokyo, Kyoto and Hokkaido, as well as some of the more off-the-beaten-path destinations to inspire your next Japan adventure.
1. Tokyo
Tokyo is easily one of the most exciting cities in the world. Like a microcosm of Japan all in one city, Tokyo evokes visions of the old and new, neon-lit and fast-paced, genteel and spiritual – and everything in between. Not just the political and economic centre of Japan, it’s also emerged as a powerhouse of the global economy and a cultural hub where tradition and modernity co-exist in harmony.
Why we love it: Asakusa’s ancient temples and traditional stores, the unrivalled balance of Michelin-starred restaurants and cheap-and-cheerful ramen shops across the whole city, and without a doubt, Shinjuku’s thumping laneway bar scene. Most people may have the impression that Tokyo is a concrete jungle, but it also embraces nature with nearly 300 parks and gardens to explore.
What’s new: A minimalist, youthful hotel brand, Mustard Hotel 
opened its first property in Shibuya in 2018. Its second property, set in the cool neighbourhood of Shimokitazawa, is designed by architect, Shin Ohori. You can expect a clean, modern aesthetic with plenty of greenery and seating areas for the public to socialise.
2. Osaka
Known as Japan’s food bowl, Osaka is the brasher sibling to Tokyo and a treasure trove of weird and wonderful sights and sounds. Osaka is the best destination in Japan for street eats that include omelette-like pancakes (okonomiyaki) and fried octopus balls (takoyaki).
Why we love it: Osaka is a city with attitude and straight-talking, friendly locals. It has exciting nightlife, delicious food and fascinating architecture including the otherworldly beauty of Osaka Castle. Shinsaibashi, the main shopping area in Osaka, has trendy boutiques and luxury department stores while Nishinomaru Garden is the best spot to take in manicured lawns, sculpted topiary and, at the right time of year, cherry blossoms.
What’s new: Super Nintendo World has opened at Universal Studios Japan (USJ) in Osaka. The themed area of the park allows you to experience the game world of Nintendo in a life-size fashion and interact with characters beyond their traditional home of video game consoles.
3. Hokkaido
Japan’s icy northernmost island is best loved for world class powder snow, delicious seafood, and natural hot springs. Much of Hokkaido is wild and unspoiled, with volcanic lakes and a fascinating indigenous culture. Just a short flight from Tokyo, Hokkaido is the perfect escape in all seasons.
Why we love it: What better place to feel on top of the world than hitting the high slopes of Niseko and Rusutsu in winter. Alternatively, you can scour markets for fresh sushi, sashimi, and other seafood delights or hike and explore the island’s many National Parks in summer.
What’s new: You’ll be on cloud nine at the Unkai Terrace in Hokkaido – literally. An extension of Hoshino Resorts Tomamu, the Unkai Terrace is centred around the concept of enjoying unkai (sea of clouds) views in nine different ways.
4. Kyoto
Steeped in history, Kyoto is the epicentre of Japanese culture. Temples and shrines such as Kiyomizudera Temple and Kinkakuji Temple (The Golden Pavilion) draw the crowds, as do the bamboo groves of nearby Arashiyama. Kyoto is considered the birthplace of geisha culture and has more World Heritage Sites per square mile than anywhere else in the world.
Why we love it: Kyoto is postcard-perfect Japan. Traditional ryokan accommodation is everywhere and there is a swathe of ‘oh-so-Japan’ experiences to found around every corner. Beyond the city limits, Ine is a quaint fishing village famous for its unique funaya (boat houses), some of which have been converted into guest houses.
What’s new: Affordable luxury is hard to come by if you’re exploring a destination as popular as Kyoto, but this impressive four-star hotel has more to offer than its reasonable room rates. Built around the former Ban family residence, Karasuma Rokkaku's authentic machiya (traditional townhouse) structure is a prime example of traditional Kyoto architecture.
5. Tohoku
Japan's north-eastern wilderness which encompasses six rural prefectures is bound by custom, heritage and more recently, the tragedy of the 2011 earthquake and tsunami. The region’s picturesque Ginzan Onsen is like stepping back in time to the early 20th century.
Why we love it: Tohoku is just over one hour on the shinkansen from Tokyo depending on which part you’re visiting. The region’s bountiful nature, expansive rice paddies (famous for its rice paddy art) and beautiful villages instantly immerse visitors in warm rural landscapes reminiscent of Ghibli films. This oft overlooked region offers dramatic landscapes, history-rich sites, craft sake and a host of outdoor activities like rafting, hiking and skiing.
What’s new: The hotly anticipated Hirosaki Museum of Contemporary Art opened in July in a historic brick warehouse built a century ago as a sake brewery. It can be found in the castle city of Hirosaki, famous for cherry blossoms and for apple production.
6. Wakayama
Close to Osaka’s Kansai International Airport, Wakayama is Japan’s spiritual heartland, attracting enlightenment-seeking pilgrims and beach-bound sun worshippers in equal measure. The prefecture’s towns are home to some of Japan’s best ramen, beautiful hot springs and beaches, and shrines and temples.
Why we love it: From the calm, spiritual atmosphere at the ancient temple complex of Koyasan, to the ancient Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route through dense and misty forests, Wakayama will reboot body and soul.
What’s new: Koyasan is one of the most sacred sites of Japanese Buddhism. A new initiative in the town has launched, where a local rickshaw driver will guide you through Koyasan’s historical temples and streets while offering many details and tips in English. Find out more about Koyasan Rickshaw Kokuu .
7. Kochi
Kochi Prefecture’s location on the Pacific Ocean, on the island of Shikoku, has made it a gathering place for surfers and divers from all over Japan and the world. On the southwestern edge of Kochi, a tropical paradise known as Kashiwajima features sublime waters and coral reefs around the 4km long island. The Muroto area of its rugged coast has recently earned UNESCO Global Geopark status for its geological formations.
Why we love it: Historical Kochi Castle, sake breweries and traditional markets in the region are well preserved and worth exploring. The people of Kochi are known for their love of dorome (tiny fresh sardines) and craft alcoholic drinks. Every year a dorome festival sees people eat fresh sardines, pray for a bountiful harvest and have a sake ‘chugging’ competition.
What’s new: The first zipline in the prefecture has opened at Shimanto River, one of the longest rivers in Japan. Far removed from urban areas and development, its waters are pristine, keeping it high on the list of places to visit for nature enthusiasts. Find out more about the new Shimanto River Zipline .
