Imagine your first trip to Japan as a carefully crafted adventure—a journey through the best cities where the rich culture, natural beauty, and warm hospitality of this remarkable country unfold at every turn. Whether you’re drawn to the capital city’s energy, the serenity of beautiful gardens, or the charm of well-preserved old towns, this guide is designed for those who seek to explore Japan’s top destinations in comfort and style. Let’s explore the best cities to visit in Japan with Designer Journeys!
Post Contents
- 1. Tokyo: The Vibrant Capital City
- 2. Kyoto: Japan’s Timeless Permanent Capital
- 3. Osaka: Japan’s Gourmet Gateway to the Seto Inland Sea
- 4. Matsumoto: Gateway to the Japanese Alps
- 5. Kanazawa: Art, Heritage, and the Beauty of the Main Island
- Travel Tips for Visiting Japan’s Best Cities
- F.A.Qs
- Design Your Perfect Japan Trip
1. Tokyo: The Vibrant Capital City
No visit to Japan is complete without experiencing Tokyo, the country’s beating heart. As Japan’s capital and the world’s most populous metropolitan area, Tokyo is a dynamic blend of innovation and tradition—a city where Edo period shrines stand beside futuristic towers.
Tokyo skytree tower with sakura pink cherry blossom flower on spring season.
Essential Experiences:
- Skyscrapers & Skyline Views: Discover the beauty of Tokyo’s cityscape from a luxury hotel—imagine spectacular views stretching from Shinjuku to the iconic silhouette of Mount Fuji on a clear day.
- Traditional Japanese Culture: Visit the tranquil Meiji Shrine, explore the historical lanes of Asakusa, and get up close to Senso-ji, Tokyo’s oldest temple, where centuries of Japanese culture endure.
- World-Class Cuisine: Tokyo is home to the largest number of Michelin-starred restaurants. Let a local expert curate a culinary journey, from intimate sushi counters to vibrant food markets.
- Japanese Gardens & Water Features: Wander through Shinjuku Gyoen, a masterpiece of Japanese landscape design, which is especially stunning in early April when the cherry blossoms bloom.
- Art & Pop Culture: Uncover the digital art world at teamLab Planets or stroll through the fashionable Harajuku district, blending contemporary energy with tradition.
- Day Trip Ideas: Consider a day trip to Hakone for rejuvenating hot springs and more spectacular mountain scenery.
Expert Insight: Tokyo’s luxury lies in the details: private sake tastings, hidden izakaya bars, and custom architecture tours. For first-time visitors, this beautiful city is both exhilarating and reassuring, with seamless support and endless possibilities.
2. Kyoto: Japan’s Timeless Permanent Capital
Kyoto—once the permanent capital of Japan—remains one of the most captivating cities for luxury travellers and cultural enthusiasts. This main island gem was spared mainly destruction during World War II, leaving its beautiful temples, gardens, and traditional districts remarkably well-preserved.
The grand gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha.
Essential Experiences:
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Discover the golden splendour of Kinkaku-ji, the meditative Zen rock garden of Ryoan-ji, and the grand gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha. Each site tells a story of history and reverence.
- Geisha Districts & Traditional Teahouses: Wander Gion and Higashiyama, two famous places where geisha districts come alive with lantern light. Arrange a private tea ceremony in a traditional teahouse—a truly personal cultural encounter.
- Japanese Gardens: Stroll through the beautiful gardens of Nanzen-ji or the mossy tranquillity of Saiho-ji. In spring, witness Kyoto’s parks transform during cherry blossom season.
- Castle Ruins & Historical Sites: Visit Nijo Castle and the remnants of the city’s feudal past, or climb to Kiyomizu-dera Temple for spectacular views across the city.
- Culinary Kyoto: Sample sake at a Fushimi brewery, savour kaiseki cuisine, and discover seasonal delicacies at Nishiki Market.
- Day Trip Ideas: Take a day trip to Nara or the rural Japan villages of Shirakawa-go for even more history and culture.
Expert Insight: Kyoto is for travellers who seek well-preserved old towns, significant temples, and authentic Japanese culture. With expert local guidance, every step becomes a crafted, seamless experience.
3. Osaka: Japan’s Gourmet Gateway to the Seto Inland Sea
A short journey from Kyoto, Osaka is a popular city famous for its food, creativity, and vibrant energy. As a hub of international trade since the Edo period, Osaka blends historic grandeur with modern excitement.
Kishiwada Castle in Osaka.
Essential Experiences:
- Dotonbori Nights: Explore the dazzling neon of Dotonbori—sample street food like takoyaki and okonomiyaki in a district that never sleeps.
- Osaka Castle: Uncover the story of this iconic landmark and its stunning castle ruins, surrounded by landscaped parks and beautiful gardens.
- Luxury Hotels: Stay in riverside suites with stunning city views, where every detail is meticulously designed for comfort.
- Historical Sites & Sake Breweries: Take a private tour of significant temples such as Shitennoji and enjoy sake tastings in the Nada district.
- Seto Inland Sea & Day Trips: Consider a cruise or a side trip to Mount Rokko, offering nature, hot springs, and mountain panoramas just beyond the city limits.
Expert Insight: Osaka is a top destination for first-time visitors and repeat travellers alike. Its friendly spirit, creative cuisine, and seamless blend of past and present make it one of the best cities to visit in Japan.
4. Matsumoto: Gateway to the Japanese Alps
Nestled in the heart of the Japanese Alps, Matsumoto is an invitation to explore rural Japan and experience true tranquillity. This beautiful city is famed for its mountain scenery, hot springs, and artistic heritage.
Matsumoto Castle in Nagano Prefecture.
Essential Experiences:
- Matsumoto Castle: Visit this well-preserved national treasure—one of the few remaining original castles in the country. Experience its black-and-white silhouette up close, with insights into samurai life and local history.
- Old Town Charm: Stroll Nakamachi Street, a well-preserved old town with Edo period storehouses, local craft shops, and charming cafes.
- Nature and Hot Springs: Spend time in Kamikochi or Norikura, two breathtaking gateways to the Japanese Alps, renowned for their spectacular views and luxury hot springs resorts.
- Matsumoto City Museum of Art: Discover a collection dedicated to contemporary and traditional art, including the world-famous work of Yayoi Kusama.
- Day Trip Ideas: Venture to Shirakawa-go or the scenic countryside for an immersive rural experience.
- Sake Breweries & Dining: Sample regional sake at a centuries-old brewery and dine on mountain cuisine inspired by the changing seasons.
Expert Insight: Matsumoto blends the best of Japanese cities with the peace of rural Japan. For luxury travellers and culture seekers, it’s an essential stop on a two-week itinerary—offering both iconic sites and the chance to create your own moments of discovery.
5. Kanazawa: Art, Heritage, and the Beauty of the Main Island
On the Sea of Japan coast, Kanazawa is one of Japan’s most captivating cities—rich in culture, design, and living history. Once a key centre of international trade, this city is a treasure trove for those who love traditional Japanese culture and art.
Kenrokuen is a masterpiece of landscape artistry.
Image source: Kenrokuen
Essential Experiences:
- Kenrokuen Garden: Often named among the world’s most beautiful gardens, Kenrokuen is a masterpiece of landscape artistry. Wander among ancient pines, shimmering ponds, and artful water features with a local expert.
- Geisha and Samurai Districts: Explore the streets of Higashi Chaya (geisha) and Nagamachi (samurai), where traditional teahouses offer matcha and delicate sweets.
- Contemporary & Traditional Art: Visit the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art and local galleries, balancing new ideas with age-old techniques.
- Sake Breweries & Cuisine: Discover hidden sake breweries, meet local artisans, and indulge in exquisite kaiseki dining.
- Historical Sites: Stroll Kanazawa Castle Park and nearby remnants of the city’s Edo period glory.
- Day Trip Ideas: Kanazawa’s location makes it an ideal base for day trips to the Noto Peninsula, the rural villages of the main island, or a quick journey to Kyoto or Shirakawa-go.
Expert Insight: Kanazawa offers a seamless blend of luxury, art, and tradition. For first-time visitors and returning travellers, it’s a city to explore slowly—full of famous places, hidden gems, and authentic encounters.
Travel Tips for Visiting Japan’s Best Cities
When is the Best Time to Visit Japan?
Early April is famous for cherry blossoms (sakura), creating spectacular views in every city—from the beautiful gardens of Kyoto to the castle parks of Matsumoto. Spring (March to May) is generally considered the best time to visit Japan, with mild weather and iconic seasonal beauty. Autumn (late September to November) is another magical period, as fall foliage paints Japanese gardens and historical sites in vibrant reds and golds. For luxury travellers, both seasons offer unique festivals, seasonal cuisine, and fewer crowds compared to the busy summer months.
Early April is famous for cherry blossoms, creating spectacular views in every city.
Local Tips: Seamless, Confident, Personal
- Travel by Rail: The Shinkansen (bullet train) connects all of Japan’s top destinations—making it easy to explore multiple Japanese cities within a two-week trip. For a seamless experience, consider a Japan Rail Pass or arrange private transfers for added comfort and support.
- Stay in Style: Boutique hotels, luxury ryokans (traditional inns), and high-end city suites offer personalised service and expert local insights. Book in advance, especially during cherry blossom season and national holidays.
- Embrace Local Etiquette: Japanese culture values respect and harmony. Bow when greeting, remove shoes when entering homes or certain restaurants, and always be polite—especially in traditional teahouses and old towns.
- Cash is King: While Japan’s largest cities and most popular cities are modern, some rural areas and small shops may not accept credit cards. Carry cash, especially when visiting smaller towns or hot springs in rural Japan.
- Pack Light and Layer: Japan’s weather varies by region and season, especially if your trip includes the Japanese Alps, Seto Inland Sea, or mountain towns. Layering is key.
- Advance Bookings: Reserve tables at Michelin-starred restaurants, private guides, and tickets for famous places such as Kiyomizu-dera Temple or luxury hot springs resorts before your trip. High-end experiences fill up quickly, especially in spring.
- Day Trips and Hidden Gems: Use cities like Kyoto, Osaka, and Kanazawa as hubs for day trips. Discover rural villages like Shirakawa-go, soak in a mountain onsen, or take a short journey to scenic spots like Mount Fuji, Mount Rokko, or the Seto Inland Sea for a true off-the-beaten-path experience.
How to Explore Like a Local—And With Confidence
- Connect with Local Experts: Personalised tours with local guides offer trusted insight into Japanese culture, history, and hidden gems. Whether it’s a sake brewery tour, a private garden walk, or an art-focused day, a local expert makes all the difference.
- Try Onsen Etiquette: When visiting hot springs, remember to shower before entering the bath, keep towels out of the water, and embrace the calm, meditative atmosphere. Many luxury ryokans offer private onsen for added privacy and relaxation.
- Respectful Photography: Some geisha districts, teahouses, and religious sites discourage photography—always ask or look for posted signs.
- Connectivity: Japan’s public Wi-Fi can be inconsistent. Rent a pocket Wi-Fi or SIM card for seamless navigation and communication across cities and rural areas.
- Luggage Delivery: For hassle-free travel between destinations, use Japan’s luggage forwarding services (takkyubin) to send your bags ahead—perfect for luxury travellers who want to explore hands-free.
Essential Packing Checklist
- Passport, travel insurance, and visa (if required)
- Comfortable walking shoes (for old towns, castle ruins, and gardens)
- Dressier outfits for fine dining or traditional ceremonies
- Layers for changing weather, especially in spring or when visiting the Japanese Alps
- Umbrella or light raincoat (weather can change quickly)
- Travel adapter (Japan uses Type A and B plugs)
F.A.Qs
What is the nicest city in Japan to visit?
Kyoto is often considered the nicest city for visitors. With its beautiful gardens, well-preserved old town, stunning temples, and rich traditional Japanese culture, it offers an unforgettable blend of history, elegance, and authenticity.
Is $5000 enough for a trip to Japan?
Yes, $5000 is enough for a comfortable two-week trip, even for luxury travellers, if you budget wisely. This can cover flights, upscale hotels, gourmet dining, transportation, and curated experiences in Japan’s best cities.
What are the top 3 most scenic places in Japan?
Mount Fuji for iconic views, Kyoto for breathtaking temples and gardens, and the Japanese Alps around Matsumoto for spectacular nature and castle scenery. These destinations offer Japan’s most famous and beautiful landscapes.
Which city to visit in Japan for first-timers?
Tokyo is the best city for first-time visitors. As the capital and largest city, it blends modern excitement, history, world-class cuisine, and easy access to other top destinations—making it a perfect introduction to Japan.
Design Your Perfect Japan Trip
Every journey through Japan is an opportunity to design your own story—whether you’re exploring the populous metropolitan area of Tokyo, wandering the historic lanes of Kyoto, savouring culinary adventures in Osaka, experiencing the mountain magic of Matsumoto, or immersing in Kanazawa’s creative spirit. These top destinations reflect the diversity and depth of Japanese culture, from UNESCO World Heritage Sites and hot springs to castle ruins, sake breweries, and the modern pulse of the country’s most beautiful cities.
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