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Aso Shrine
Kumamoto · Kyushu
Aso Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine located in Kumamoto Prefecture, nestled at the base of the majestic Mount Aso volcanic caldera. This ancient shrine, with origins dating back over 2,500 years, serves as the spiritual guardian of the Aso region and features impressive vermillion buildings set against dramatic natural scenery. While the shrine suffered damage during the 2016 Kumamoto earthquakes, ongoing restoration efforts make it a powerful symbol of resilience and regional heritage.
Rokusen Sushi Tsutenkaku Honten
Osaka · Kinki / Kansai
Rokusen Sushi Tsutenkaku Honten offers an authentic revolving sushi experience in the heart of Osaka's nostalgic Shinsekai district, right near the iconic Tsutenkaku Tower. This lively kaiten-zushi restaurant serves fresh, affordable sushi on a conveyor belt, allowing you to pick plates as they pass by while enjoying the energetic local atmosphere. It's a perfect spot to refuel after exploring the retro charm of the neighborhood and experiencing one of Osaka's most photographed landmarks.
Beppu Jigoku (Hells of Beppu)
Oita · Kyushu
This unique collection of eight geothermal hot springs showcases Japan's volcanic landscape through vibrant mineral-rich waters in striking blues, reds, and earth tones. Each "hell" offers distinct characteristics, from the iconic blue Umi Jigoku to the blood-red Chinoike Jigoku, creating an otherworldly experience. Visitors explore these natural wonders while learning about geothermal geology and enjoying traditional onsen culture.
Magome-juku
Nagano · Chubu
Magome-juku is a beautifully preserved post town along the historic Nakasendo Trail in the Kiso Valley, where travelers once journeyed between Kyoto and Tokyo during the Edo period. The car-free stone-paved main street is lined with traditional wooden buildings housing charming tea houses, craft shops, and minshuku inns, offering an authentic glimpse into old Japan. Walking through this picturesque mountain village feels like stepping back in time, with stunning valley views and easy access to scenic hiking trails connecting to nearby Tsumago-juku.
Ryūsendō Cave
Iwate · Tohoku
Ryūsendō Cave is one of Japan's three great limestone caves, featuring stunning underground lakes with crystal-clear, cobalt-blue water that reaches depths over 100 meters. The illuminated walkways guide visitors through magnificent stalactite and stalagmite formations that have developed over millions of years, creating an otherworldly subterranean landscape. Located in Iwaizumi, Iwate Prefecture, this natural wonder maintains a constant cool temperature year-round, making it a refreshing escape in summer.
Koishikawa Korakuen
Tokyo · Kanto
Koishikawa Korakuen is one of Tokyo's oldest and most beautiful Japanese gardens, dating back to the early Edo period in the 17th century. This stunning landscape garden features meticulously designed scenery including ponds, bridges, and walking paths that recreate famous views from China and Japan in miniature. Despite being surrounded by modern Tokyo skyscrapers, the garden offers a peaceful escape with seasonal beauty from plum blossoms and irises to vibrant autumn foliage.
Toripaitan Ramen Kinmugi Amemura Branch
Osaka · Kinki / Kansai
Kinmugi Amemura Branch specializes in rich and creamy toripaitan ramen, a chicken-based broth that's simmered for hours to achieve its signature milky-white color and deep umami flavor. Located in the vibrant Amemura (American Village) district of Osaka, this ramen shop offers an authentic taste of regional ramen culture in one of the city's trendiest neighborhoods. The hearty bowls feature tender chicken chashu and perfectly cooked noodles that pair beautifully with the smooth, collagen-rich broth.
Kyoto National Museum
Kyoto · Kinki / Kansai
The Kyoto National Museum is one of Japan's premier cultural institutions, housing an exceptional collection of pre-modern Japanese and Asian art spanning centuries. Located in the historic Higashiyama district, the museum showcases rotating exhibitions of national treasures including Buddhist sculptures, samurai armor, ceramics, paintings, and textiles in both its striking modern Heisei Chishinkan Wing and original Meiji-era building. Art lovers and history enthusiasts will find themselves immersed in Japan's rich cultural heritage through world-class displays that change seasonally to protect delicate artifacts.
Historic Bridge
Saga · Kyushu
This historic bridge stands as a testament to Japan's architectural heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into the country's rich past. The structure showcases traditional Japanese bridge-building techniques and provides picturesque views perfect for photography enthusiasts. Whether crossing it on foot or simply admiring it from the banks, this bridge connects both land and history in a meaningful way.
Shinkyō Bridge
Tochigi · Kanto
This iconic wooden bridge, built in 1648, spans the Daiya River with its distinctive red lacquered arches. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it offers stunning views of sacred mountains and seasonal beauty, from cherry blossoms to autumn foliage. Visitors experience quintessential Japanese architecture and access the spiritual heart of Nikko's UNESCO-listed shrines.
Shinsekai
Osaka · Kinki / Kansai
Shinsekai is a vibrant retro entertainment district in Osaka that captures the nostalgic atmosphere of early 20th-century Japan. The area is famous for its iconic Tsutenkaku Tower, endless串katsu (deep-fried skewer) restaurants, and neon-lit streets that transport visitors to old-school Osaka. This working-class neighborhood offers an authentic glimpse into local culture with its bustling izakayas, traditional game parlors, and welcoming atmosphere.
Himeyuri Cenotaph
Okinawa · Kyushu
The Himeyuri Cenotaph is a solemn memorial dedicated to the Himeyuri Student Corps, a group of high school girls and teachers who served as nursing assistants during the Battle of Okinawa in 1945. Located in Itoman City, Okinawa, this moving monument honors the 240 students and teachers who lost their lives in the final days of World War II. The adjacent Himeyuri Peace Museum provides powerful firsthand accounts and exhibits that offer deep insight into the tragic human cost of war.
Shirakawa Spring
Kumamoto · Kyushu
Shirakawa Spring is a natural water source that has provided fresh, clean water to the local community for generations. The spring's crystal-clear waters emerge from the surrounding mountains, creating a serene and picturesque setting that reflects the natural beauty of rural Japan. Visitors can experience the authentic connection between Japanese communities and their natural water sources, a relationship deeply rooted in Shinto traditions and daily life.
Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) Kure Museum
Hiroshima · Chugoku
The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Kure Museum, affectionately known as the 'Tetsu no Kujira-kan' (Iron Whale Museum), offers a fascinating glimpse into Japan's naval history and submarine technology. The museum's centerpiece is a real retired submarine, the Akishio, which visitors can board and explore to experience authentic cramped quarters and operational spaces. With free admission and interactive exhibits explaining underwater technology and the history of the Kure Naval District, it's an educational attraction suitable for families and military history enthusiasts alike.
Daio Wasabi Farm
Nagano · Chubu
Daio Wasabi Farm in Azumino, Nagano is one of Japan's largest wasabi farms, spanning over 15 hectares of pristine spring-fed waterways. Visitors can stroll through picturesque pathways lined with crystal-clear streams where wasabi plants grow, explore charming water mills featured in Akira Kurosawa's film 'Dreams', and sample unique wasabi-flavored treats like wasabi ice cream and croquettes. The farm offers a serene countryside experience with stunning views of the Northern Alps and insight into traditional wasabi cultivation.
At Nagoya Monument Oasis 21
Aichi · Chubu
This striking glass and water landmark in central Nagoya combines modern architecture with a spacious plaza featuring a beautiful underground shopping mall. The iconic structure's reflective glass creates stunning visual effects, while fountains and open spaces provide relaxation amid urban scenery. Visitors enjoy shopping, dining, and experiencing contemporary Japanese design in one dynamic destination.
Oasis 21
Aichi · Chubu
This iconic shopping and entertainment complex features a stunning glass pyramid and unique water plaza where visitors can wade through shallow pools. Completed in 2002, it seamlessly blends modern architecture with nature, offering shops, restaurants, and cultural spaces. The rooftop provides panoramic city views and hosts seasonal events, making it a must-visit destination for both shopping and sightseeing.
Mizuki Shigeru Road
Tottori · Chugoku
Mizuki Shigeru Road is a charming street in Sakaiminato City dedicated to the beloved manga artist Mizuki Shigeru, creator of GeGeGe no Kitaro. The 800-meter shopping street features over 170 bronze statues of yokai (Japanese supernatural creatures) from his famous works, creating a whimsical open-air gallery. Visitors can explore quirky shops, themed cafes, and the Mizuki Shigeru Museum while immersing themselves in Japan's rich folklore tradition.
Otaru Canal
Hokkaido · Hokkaido
The Otaru Canal is a picturesque waterway lined with beautifully preserved historic warehouses, offering one of Hokkaido's most romantic and photogenic settings. By day, stroll along the tree-lined paths admiring the charming architecture and mountain backdrop, while evenings transform the canal into a magical scene with lights reflecting on the calm water. This leisurely walking destination perfectly captures the nostalgic charm of this former trading port city, just a short train ride from Sapporo.
Zuiganji Temple
Miyagi · Tohoku
Zuiganji Temple is the spiritual heart of Matsushima and one of northern Japan's most magnificent Zen temples, founded in the 9th century and rebuilt in 1609 by the legendary feudal lord Date Masamune. The National Treasure main hall showcases breathtaking Edo-period craftsmanship with golden sliding doors, intricate wood carvings, and elegantly painted screens that exude centuries of devotion. Walking through cedar-lined paths, serene rock gardens, and historic memorial caves dating back to the 12th century, visitors experience a profound journey through samurai history and Zen Buddhist culture.
Zuigenji
Fukui · Chubu
Zuigenji is a serene Buddhist temple offering visitors a glimpse into Japan's rich spiritual heritage and traditional architecture. The temple grounds provide a peaceful retreat from urban life, featuring beautiful gardens and historic structures that reflect centuries of religious devotion. Whether you're seeking cultural insight or a moment of tranquility, this temple offers an authentic Japanese temple experience.
Narai-juku
Nagano · Chubu
Narai-juku is a beautifully preserved post town along the historic Nakasendo Trail in the Kiso Valley of Nagano Prefecture, often called the longest of the Eleven Post Towns with nearly a kilometer of traditional wooden buildings lining its streets. Walking through this Edo-period time capsule, visitors can explore merchant houses, local craft shops specializing in lacquerware and woodwork, and traditional inns that once served samurai and travelers. The atmospheric main street, free from modern intrusions like power lines, offers an authentic glimpse into Japan's feudal past and makes for stunning photographs in any season.
Tsumago-juku
Nagano · Chubu
Tsumago-juku is a beautifully preserved post town along the historic Nakasendo Trail in the Kiso Valley, where traditional wooden buildings and stone paths transport visitors back to Japan's Edo period. This car-free village has maintained its authentic atmosphere by banning telephone poles and modern facades, making it one of Japan's most picturesque historic towns. Visitors can explore merchant houses, stay in traditional inns, and walk portions of the ancient trail connecting it to neighboring Magome-juku.
Mikane Shrine
Kyoto · Kinki / Kansai
Mikane Shrine is a unique Kyoto shrine dedicated to the deity of metal and finance, attracting visitors seeking prosperity and business success. The shrine is instantly recognizable by its striking golden torii gate and abundance of golden decorations throughout the grounds. Worshippers often come here to pray for financial fortune, making it a fascinating glimpse into Japan's spiritual relationship with wealth and commerce.