One Month in Japan: Explore the Best of Japan

Where to Go:

• Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: A peaceful retreat amid the city’s hustle, perfect for enjoying cherry blossoms in spring or vivid autumn colors.
• Tokyo Tower: Iconic red tower offering panoramic views of metropolitan Tokyo and beyond, especially stunning at night.
• Meiji Shrine: Dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his consort, this shrine is a serene sanctuary surrounded by a lush forest.
• Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple: An atmospheric area known for Tokyo’s oldest temple, Senso-ji, vibrant festivals, and traditional shopping streets.
• Akihabara Electric Town: The center of Japan’s otaku culture, offering a plethora of electronics, anime merchandise, and maid cafes.
• Tsukiji Outer Market: A bustling market known for fresh seafood and the traditional sushi counters tucked in its busy lanes.
• Harajuku: The heart of Japan’s teenage culture and fashion, famous for its colorful street art, fashion boutiques, and trendy snacks.
• Tokyo National Museum: Located in Ueno Park, it houses an extensive collection of art and antiquities from Japan and Asia.
• Odaiba: A high-tech entertainment hub on a man-made island in Tokyo Bay, known for its futuristic architecture and the giant Gundam statue.
• Shibuya Crossing: Perhaps the world’s busiest pedestrian scramble, offering a quintessential moment of Tokyo’s frenetic energy.

Where to Stay:

• Budget: Sakura Hotel Jimbocho – Affordable, cozy, and conveniently located near public transit, perfect for budget travelers.
• Mid-range: Hotel Niwa Tokyo – Offers a tranquil atmosphere with modern Japanese décor and excellent amenities, located in central Tokyo.
• Luxury: Park Hyatt Tokyo – Known for its elegant rooms and spectacular city views, this hotel offers a luxurious escape in the heart of Shinjuku.

What to Eat:

• Sushi: Experience sushi where it originated, with options ranging from high-end sushi bars to convenient conveyor belt restaurants.
• Ramen: Try Tokyo-style ramen with its slightly thinner noodles and soy-flavored chicken broth.
• Tempura: Savor light and crispy tempura at one of Tokyo’s specialized tempura bars.
• Monjayaki: Tokyo’s version of the savory pancake, best enjoyed at a restaurant in the Tsukishima district.
• Tokyo Banana: A must-try sweet treat, these banana-flavored sponge cakes make perfect souvenirs.

Where to Go:

• Mt. Fuji: Japan’s tallest peak and an enduring symbol of the country, popular for climbing and photography.
• Hakone Open Air Museum: Combines impressive sculptures with scenic views of Hakone’s natural landscapes.
• Lake Ashinoko: Enjoy a boat ride with views of Mt. Fuji or explore the lakeside shrines.
• Odawara Castle: A beautifully reconstructed castle offering insights into Japan’s samurai past.
• Kamakura: Visit the Great Buddha and numerous ancient temples, only a short trip from Tokyo.
• Nikko: Famous for Toshogu Shrine, lavish resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu, and beautiful national parks.
• Yokohama Chinatown: The largest Chinatown in Japan, offering an array of Chinese cuisine and colorful temples.
• Enoshima: A small seaside island known for its shrines, caves, and the Enoshima Sea Candle lighthouse.
• Kawagoe: Explore this charming town known as “Little Edo” for its well-preserved Edo-era buildings.
• Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route: A spectacular route through the Northern Japan Alps, known for its massive snow corridors.

Where to Stay:

• Budget: K’s House Hakone – A friendly hostel with hot springs, offering a mix of traditional and modern comforts.
• Mid-range: Hakone Ginyu – A ryokan that offers stunning mountain views, open-air baths, and exquisite kaiseki meals.
• Luxury: Fujiya Hotel – A historic hotel in Hakone known for its classic architecture and luxurious spa treatments.

What to Eat:

• Kuro-tamago (Black Eggs): Boiled in Owakudani’s volcanic waters, these eggs are said to extend one’s lifespan.
• Yokohama Ramen: Known for its rich, pork-based broth typically flavored with soy.
• Fresh Wasabi: Enjoy fresh wasabi in Shizuoka, a region known for cultivating this pungent plant.
• Houtou Noodles: A comforting, miso-based noodle soup that’s a specialty of the Fuji Five Lakes area.
• Kamakura Shaved Ice: Especially popular in summer, served with sweet syrup and condensed milk.

Where to Go:

• Nagoya Castle: Explore this iconic castle famous for its golden shachihoko (tiger-headed carp) statues and lush surrounding gardens.
• Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology: Learn about Japan’s automotive history and see how cars are made.
• Atsuta Shrine: One of Japan’s oldest and most important Shinto shrines, housing the sacred sword Kusanagi.
• Osu Kannon Temple and Shopping District: Visit this ancient temple and then explore the nearby streets filled with eclectic shops and eateries.
• SCMaglev and Railway Park: Discover the evolution of Japanese trains, including the famous bullet trains and maglev technology exhibits.
• Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium: See dolphins, whales, and other sea creatures in one of Japan’s largest aquariums.
• Nagoya City Science Museum: Home to the world’s largest planetarium, this museum offers engaging science exhibits.
• Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens: A place to enjoy diverse animal species and lush botanical collections.
• Noritake Garden: Explore beautifully landscaped gardens and learn about the history of Noritake ceramics.
• Tokugawa Art Museum: Houses treasures belonging to the powerful Tokugawa clan, including samurai armor and ancient scrolls.

Where to Stay:

• Budget: Hostel Wasabi Nagoya Ekimae – A clean and modern hostel offering budget-friendly accommodation close to Nagoya Station.
• Mid-range: Nagoya Tokyu Hotel – Delivers a blend of comfort and elegance with multiple dining options and spacious rooms.
• Luxury: The Westin Nagoya Castle – Right next to Nagoya Castle, this hotel offers luxurious rooms with impressive castle views and top-notch amenities.

What to Eat:

• Hitsumabushi: Grilled eel over rice, which can be enjoyed in three different ways in one meal.
• Miso Katsu: Pork cutlet with a thick, sweet miso sauce—a Nagoya specialty.
• Tebasaki: Spicy glazed chicken wings that are a local favorite, especially at izakayas.
• Kishimen: Flat udon noodles served in a savory broth, typical of Nagoya cuisine.
• Tenmusu: A unique snack of tempura shrimp wrapped in rice and seaweed.

Where to Go:

• Fushimi Inari Shrine: Famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, which straddle a network of trails behind the main buildings.
• Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion): A Zen temple with top two floors completely covered in gold leaf, set beside a reflective pond.
• Gion District: Kyoto’s most famous geisha district, offering chances to see geisha and maiko en route to their engagements.
• Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: A breathtaking bamboo forest, perfect for a scenic walk or cycle.
• Kiyomizu-dera Temple: Known for its wooden stage that juts out over the hillside, offering visitors a nice view of the cherry and maple trees below.
• Nijo Castle: An ornamental castle built by the founder of the Edo Shogunate as his Kyoto residence and is surrounded by stunning gardens.
• Philosopher’s Path: A stone path through the northern part of Kyoto’s Higashiyama district, ideal for contemplative walks especially during cherry blossom season.
• Heian Shrine: Recognized for its giant torii gate and extensive gardens, which represent the four seasons.
• Ryoan-ji Temple: Known for its raked gravel Zen garden, one of the most famous in Japan.
• Yasaka Shrine: At the end of Shijo Street, this shrine is especially lively during festivals and is lit up beautifully at night.

Where to Stay:

• Budget: K’s House Kyoto – Friendly and comfortable, this hostel is a favorite among backpackers and budget travelers.
• Mid-range: Hotel Granvia Kyoto – Located in Kyoto Station, this hotel offers excellent transit connections and modern amenities.
• Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto – Offers a tranquil retreat in the city, with spacious rooms, a renowned spa, and views of the surrounding temple district.

What to Eat:

• Kaiseki: A traditional multi-course meal that emphasizes seasonal ingredients, typically enjoyed in ryokan or specialty restaurants.
• Yudofu: Boiled tofu served with various dipping sauces, commonly eaten in the colder months.
• Matcha: Kyoto is famous for its quality green tea, which is used in ceremonies and also enjoyed in sweets and beverages.
• Soba: Buckwheat noodles, often served cold with dipping sauce or in a hot broth, enjoyed throughout Kyoto.
• Wagashi: Traditional Japanese sweets, often served with tea, especially beautiful and delicate in Kyoto.

Where to Go:

• Osaka Castle: One of Japan’s most famous landmarks, this iconic castle plays a major role in the unification of Japan during the sixteenth century.
• Dotonbori: Renowned for its bright neon lights, bustling atmosphere, and street food, this is the heart of Osaka’s entertainment district.
• Universal Studios Japan: A major theme park that offers a range of thrilling rides and shows, drawing visitors of all ages.
• Umeda Sky Building: Known for its futuristic architecture and a floating garden observatory that offers an unobstructed view of the city.
• Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan: One of the largest public aquariums in the world, showcasing diverse marine life from around the Pacific Rim.
• Shitenno-ji Temple: The oldest officially administered temple in Japan, established in 593 AD by Prince Shotoku who supported the introduction of Buddhism into Japan.
• Sumiyoshi Taisha: One of Japan’s oldest Shinto shrines, famous for its unique, straight roof design that predates Buddhist influence.
• Namba Parks: An innovative office and shopping complex with a large park that climbs several floors, set in the middle of a busy cityscape.
• Tennoji Zoo: Houses a variety of animals and works for the preservation of natural habitats.
• Osaka Museum of History: Offers exhibits that cover the history of Osaka from ancient times to the present day, with panoramic views of Osaka Castle.

Where to Stay:

• Budget: J-Hoppers Osaka Guesthouse – A friendly, international hostel with a cozy atmosphere, perfect for backpackers.
• Mid-range: Cross Hotel Osaka – Stylish and centrally located, ideal for exploring the bustling districts of Namba and Dotonbori.
• Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton Osaka – Combines modern luxury with traditional Japanese touches and excellent service.

What to Eat:

• Okonomiyaki: Often called the “Osaka soul food,” this savory pancake is made with a variety of ingredients such as cabbage, pork, and seafood.
• Takoyaki: Ball-shaped snacks made of a wheat flour-based batter and cooked with minced or diced octopus, tempura scraps, pickled ginger, and green onion.
• Kushikatsu: Skewered meats and vegetables breaded and deep-fried, served with a dipping sauce.
• Ramen: Particularly the local variety known as “Osaka Black,” known for its dark, rich soy sauce-based broth.
• Yakiniku: Grilled meat cuisine which is very popular in Osaka, often enjoyed with a variety of sauces and sides.

Where to Go:

• Todai-ji Temple: Home to the world’s largest bronze statue of the Buddha Vairocana, known as Daibutsu, housed in the world’s largest wooden building.
• Nara Park: Famous for its hundreds of freely roaming deer, which are considered messengers of the gods in Shinto.
• Kasuga-taisha Shrine: Known for its many bronze lanterns that line the paths and for its 3000 stone lanterns that light up during the lantern festivals.
• Nara National Museum: Offers a comprehensive collection of Japanese Buddhist art.
• Isuien Garden: A beautiful Japanese-style garden that offers peaceful scenery and teahouse where visitors can enjoy matcha and sweets.
• Horyu-ji Temple: One of the oldest wooden structures in the world and a landmark of Buddhist architecture.
• Heijo Palace: The site of the former imperial palace of the Nara Period, with restored buildings and historical relics.
• Wakakusa Yamayaki: An annual festival where the grass on the hillside of Nara’s Mount Wakakusayama is set on fire.
• Yoshikien Garden: A pleasant garden that is particularly popular during autumn when the leaves change color.
• Kofuku-ji Temple: This temple features a five-story pagoda, the second tallest in Japan, and an extensive collection of Buddhist statuary.

Where to Stay:

• Budget: Guesthouse Nara Backpackers – Located in a renovated traditional Japanese house that offers a genuine feel of Nara’s historic atmosphere.
• Mid-range: Nara Hotel – This historic hotel blends modern comfort with traditional Nara culture, situated close to Nara Park and major temples.
• Luxury: Noborioji Hotel – Known for its elegant blend of modern luxury and classic Nara culture, offering exquisite dining and service.

What to Eat:

• Kakinoha-zushi: Sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves, a local specialty that has a unique aroma and flavor.
• Chagayu: A rice porridge that is cooked with tea instead of water, typically seasoned with salt.
• Persimmon Leaf Sushi: Unique to Nara, this sushi is preserved and flavored with the natural antibacterial properties of persimmon leaves.
• Narazuke: Vegetables pickled in sake lees, offering a distinctive tangy taste.
• Deer Crackers (Shika-senbei): Sold throughout Nara Park, these are specially made crackers that you can feed to the deer.

Where to Go:

• Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park: Central to Hiroshima’s identity, this park is dedicated to the legacy of Hiroshima as the first city in the world to suffer a nuclear attack.
• Atomic Bomb Dome: One of the few buildings left standing near the center of the atomic blast, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a poignant reminder of peace.
• Hiroshima Castle: Also known as Carp Castle, this is a good example of a castle built on a plain in the center of a city as opposed to on a hill or mountain.
• Shukkeien Garden: A historic Japanese garden that dates back to 1620, offering a scenic retreat with miniature landscapes in its design.
• Miyajima Island: Famous for its “floating” torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine, the island is a short ferry ride from the city and offers hiking, traditional crafts, and wildlife.
• Hiroshima Museum of Art: Hosts both European and Japanese art, including works by Monet and Picasso alongside modern Japanese artists.
• Peace Memorial Museum: Documents the atomic bomb and its aftermath, aiming to advocate for peace and nuclear disarmament.
• Hiroshima Orizuru Tower: Offering a panoramic view of the city and interactive activities related to peace messages.
• Mazda Museum: A fascinating tour for car enthusiasts, showcasing Mazda’s history and its latest automotive technologies.
• Hiroshima Gogoku Shrine: A shrine associated with warriors, rebuilt after the war and now a venue for several Japanese festivals.

Where to Stay:

• Budget: Ikawa Ryokan – A traditional Japanese inn offering simple accommodations and warm hospitality, close to Peace Park.
• Mid-range: Hotel Sunroute Hiroshima – Overlooking the Peace Memorial Park, providing comfortable rooms and easy access to the city’s main attractions.
• Luxury: Sheraton Grand Hiroshima Hotel – A deluxe hotel with refined amenities and a touch of elegance, conveniently located near Hiroshima Station.

What to Eat:

• Okonomiyaki: A savory pancake that is Hiroshima’s soul food, layered with ingredients rather than mixed, including noodles and a generous amount of cabbage.
• Hiroshima-style Tsukemen: Noodles served with a separate dipping sauce, enriched with flavors of fish and pork broth.
• Momiji Manju: A maple leaf-shaped cake filled with sweet red bean paste, a favorite souvenir from Miyajima.
• Oysters: Hiroshima is famous for its oysters, which can be enjoyed raw, grilled, steamed, or fried.
• Hiroshima Carp Bento: A popular local dish especially on game days, featuring rice topped with seasoned carp.

Where to Go:

• Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine: Dedicated to the scholar Sugawara no Michizane, this shrine is surrounded by thousands of plum trees and is a site for students seeking blessings for academic success.
• Ohori Park: A serene park centered around a large pond where visitors can rent boats or enjoy a leisurely walk around the water.
• Fukuoka Castle Ruins: Explore the remains of Fukuoka’s castle within Maizuru Park, offering cherry blossom views in spring.
• Canal City Hakata: A large shopping and entertainment complex with a canal running through it, offering shops, cafes, theaters, and water shows.
• Nanzoin Temple: Known for housing one of the largest reclining Buddha statues in the world.
• Kushida Shrine: A historical Shinto shrine that is the focal point of Fukuoka’s famous Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival.
• Hakata Machiya Folk Museum: Offers a glimpse into the traditional way of life in Fukuoka, with restored townhouses and craft demonstrations.
• Fukuoka Asian Art Museum: Focuses on modern and contemporary art from Asia, promoting cultural exchanges between Asian countries.
• Marine World Uminonakamichi: An aquarium located on a scenic peninsula, showcasing marine life from around Kyushu and beyond.
• Yanagibashi Rengo Market: Known as “Fukuoka’s kitchen,” this market is the perfect place to sample local seafood and produce.

Where to Stay:

• Budget: Guest House Hokorobi – Offers simple, clean accommodations with a friendly atmosphere, ideal for backpackers.
• Mid-range: Hakata Tokyu REI Hotel – Conveniently located near Hakata Station, this hotel offers modern comforts and easy access to public transport.
• Luxury: Hotel Okura Fukuoka – A taste of luxury in the heart of Hakata, offering spacious rooms, fine dining options, and first-class service.

What to Eat:

• Hakata Ramen: Rich, creamy pork bone broth with thin noodles, often served with toppings like pork belly, green onions, and sesame seeds.
• Mentaiko: Spicy cod roe, typically served with rice, pasta, or as a topping on other dishes.
• Chicken Nanban: Fried chicken marinated in a sweet and sour sauce, usually served with a side of tartar sauce.
• Tonkotsu: Another type of pork broth that is thicker and more intense than the broth used in Hakata ramen, often used in various noodle dishes.
• Yuzu Kosho: A spicy citrus paste that combines yuzu peel, chili peppers, and salt, adding a zesty flavor to many Kyushu dishes.

Where to Go:

• Ritsurin Garden: One of the most famous historical gardens in Japan, known for its scenic beauty and the perfect setting for a peaceful stroll.
• Kotohira-gu Shrine: Also known as Konpira-san, this Shinto shrine is nestled halfway up Mount Zozu and requires a climb of 785 steps to reach, offering rewarding views and rich history.
• Iya Valley: A remote, mountainous valley known for its dramatic scenery, traditional vine bridges, and ancient thatched-roof houses.
• Naruto Whirlpools: Witness the dramatic tidal whirlpools under the Naruto Bridge, best seen during spring and autumn tides.
• Shimanami Kaido: A scenic biking route that connects Shikoku to the main island of Honshu, featuring breathtaking island and ocean views.
• Kochi Castle: One of only twelve original castles in Japan that hasn’t been rebuilt, offering insights into the feudal past and panoramic views of the surrounding area.
• Dogō Onsen: One of the oldest hot springs in Japan, famous for its historic bathhouse which inspired the animated film “Spirited Away.”
• Matsuyama Castle: Positioned on Mount Katsuyama, this castle provides a panoramic view of Matsuyama and the Seto Inland Sea.
• Oboke and Koboke Gorges: Spectacular river gorges known for their rugged, dramatic cliffs and white-water rafting opportunities.
• Chikurin-ji Temple: Located in Kochi, this temple is known for its beautiful garden and as one of the stops along the Shikoku Pilgrimage.

Where to Stay:

• Budget: Sen Guesthouse – Located in Matsuyama, this guesthouse offers affordable, clean accommodation with a friendly, communal atmosphere.
• Mid-range: Clement Uwajima Hotel – A comfortable hotel in Uwajima that provides good access to local attractions and friendly service.
• Luxury: Setouchi Retreat Aonagi – Offering minimalist luxury and stunning architecture, this hotel provides a serene escape with spectacular views of the Seto Inland Sea.

What to Eat:

• Sanuki Udon: Famous in Kagawa, these chewy, thick wheat noodles are typically served hot in a simple broth or cold with a dipping sauce.
• Katsuo no Tataki: Seared bonito, lightly grilled on the outside and sliced thin, served with garlic and other seasonings.
• Sudachi Soba: Buckwheat noodles served with sudachi, a citrus fruit native to Tokushima, adding a refreshing zest.
• Imabari Yakibuta Tamago Meshi: A popular local dish in Ehime, featuring rice topped with grilled pork and eggs.
• Olive Beef: Premium beef from cattle raised on olives, known for its tenderness and rich flavor, specific to Kagawa.

Where to Go:

• Shurijo Castle: Symbolizing the Ryukyu Kingdom’s history, recently reconstructed after a fire, it offers insights into the former kingdom’s culture.
• Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium: One of the largest aquariums in the world, famous for its massive Kuroshio Tank containing large whale sharks and manta rays.
• Naha’s Kokusai Dori: The main shopping street in Naha, lined with shops, restaurants, and bars, bustling with energy and local flavors.
• Peace Memorial Park: Located at the southern tip of the island, this park commemorates the Battle of Okinawa and promotes peace.
• Manzamo Cape: Known for its elephant trunk-shaped cliffs and stunning ocean views, it’s an ideal spot for sunset views.
  Taketomi Island: A small island near Ishigaki, known for its traditional Ryukyu village, sandy streets, and well-preserved coral houses.
• Ishigaki Island: Known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities.
• Miyako Island: Famous for its white sandy beaches and clear blue waters, ideal for water sports.
• Himeyuri Peace Museum: Dedicated to the female students and teachers who perished during the Battle of Okinawa.
• Ryukyu Mura: A theme park showcasing traditional Okinawan village and culture, with performances and craft workshops.

Where to Stay:

• Budget: Guest House Kerama – A budget-friendly guesthouse in Naha, providing simple, clean accommodations and a friendly atmosphere.
• Mid-range: Hotel Royal Orion – Situated in the heart of Naha, close to shopping and dining options, offering comfort and convenience.
• Luxury: The Busena Terrace – Nestled on a private beach, this luxury resort offers exquisite rooms, excellent dining, and extensive wellness facilities.

What to Eat:

• Okinawa Soba: Unlike mainland soba, Okinawa soba is made from wheat flour and served in a broth made from pork or fish.
• Goya Champuru: A stir-fry dish made with bitter melon, tofu, eggs, and pork or Spam, embodying the fusion of Okinawan and American influences.
• Rafute: Slow-cooked pork belly simmered in awamori (Okinawan sake), soy sauce, and sugar, known for its melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Taco Rice: A popular Okinawan dish that combines ground beef, lettuce, cheese, and salsa on a bed of rice – a testament to American influence.
• Mozuku: A type of seaweed unique to Okinawa, often served in vinegar as a side dish or appetizer, noted for its health benefits.