Best Travel Destinations in Japan

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Japan is a popular destination for American travelers thanks to its rich culture, scrumptious food, and plentiful tourist attractions. There’s no shortage of fun activities to pursue during your vacation to Japan – the only hard part is deciding where to go.

Today, we’re sharing our tips for the best Japanese travel destinations for American visitors. Are you ready to get away for your next vacation? 

Osaka

Osaka is a port city in the Kansai region of Honshu. It’s roughly 35 miles from Kyoto, and one of the most populous cities in the country. American travelers often visit the city to try its cuisine, which is some of the best in the world. One of its most popular dishes, okonomiyaki, is a pancake-like grilled dish made with meat, butter, and cabbage. 

You can visit the gorgeous Dotonbori neighborhood to check out the nightlife, or you take in the sights at the stunning Osaka Castle. Osaka Castle is a reconstructed 16th-century castle that transports visitors to the Middle Ages. For those who love amusement parks, you can hop on roller coasters and enjoy the attractions at Universal Studios Japan.

Tokyo

Tokyo is one of the most populous cities in the world and a diverse metropolis. It’s home to the nerd capital of the world, the high-tech Akihabara neighborhood. Fans of video games and anime flock to Akihabara to enjoy its themed cafes, electronic shops, and countless anime merch stores. 

If you’d rather learn about Japan’s rich history, you can visit historic heritage sites like the Meiji Shrine and Imperial Palace. These sites offer a unique look at Japan’s culture in a way that documentaries and online articles can’t articulate. 

Of course, food lovers will find plenty of world-renowned restaurants in Tokyo. The only thing you need to worry about when visiting Tokyo is saving enough money to buy souvenirs. 

Kyoto

Many travelers consider Kyoto the cultural capital of Japan. It’s located near the center of the country and possesses a wealth of historic structures. The city is home to 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites, and hundreds of Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples. 

Some visitors prefer to visit Kyoto because it can be more affordable than Tokyo. It’s a less populous city and lower on some travelers’ radar, so hotels and food can be less expensive. If you’re eager to see tourist-style attractions, you can also visit the Kyoto Aquarium while you’re in town! 

No matter which destination you choose, you can’t go wrong when you choose to visit Japan.