Aogashima Island
Tokyo
A remote volcanic island offering stunning natural scenery and a unique fishing village experience.
Logistics: Access via a ferry or helicopter from Hachijojima.
Updated: 2025-09
Highlights
Japan — Top 10 Highlights
Explore the essentials of Japan with precise pins and a quick-scan overview—clean, fast, no popups.
Why go — quick legend
- Mount Fuji — Climbing Mount Fuji offers breathtaking views and a spiri…
- Tokyo Tower — Enjoy panoramic city views from observation decks.
- Fushimi Inari Shrine — Walk through thousands of vibrant red torii gates.
- Tokyo Skytree — Experience 360-degree views from Japan's tallest tower.
- Osaka Castle — Explore Japan's history in a beautifully restored castle.
- Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park — Reflect on history and honor atomic bomb victims in a ser…
- Todaiji Temple — Explore a monumental temple housing the world's largest b…
- Himeji Castle — Admire Japan's best-preserved samurai castle known for it…
- Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden — Relax in a spacious garden blending Japanese, English, an…
- Arashiyama Bamboo Grove — Walk through towering bamboo stalks and experience an ico…
Tip: Open individual spots in Google Maps from the table below.
Legend
Why go — quick legend
- Mount Fuji — Climbing Mount Fuji offers breathtaking views and a spiri…
- Tokyo Tower — Enjoy panoramic city views from observation decks.
- Fushimi Inari Shrine — Walk through thousands of vibrant red torii gates.
- Tokyo Skytree — Experience 360-degree views from Japan's tallest tower.
- Osaka Castle — Explore Japan's history in a beautifully restored castle.
- Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park — Reflect on history and honor atomic bomb victims in a ser…
- Todaiji Temple — Explore a monumental temple housing the world's largest b…
- Himeji Castle — Admire Japan's best-preserved samurai castle known for it…
- Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden — Relax in a spacious garden blending Japanese, English, an…
- Arashiyama Bamboo Grove — Walk through towering bamboo stalks and experience an ico…
Japan — Top 10 Highlights (Overview)
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| # / Name | Why go | Significance | Since | Category |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Fujinomiya · Shizuoka Prefecture | Climbing Mount Fuji offers breathtaking views and a spiritual journey. | Iconic symbol of Japan, inspiring countless artists and poets. | — (natural) | Outdoor |
Minato | Enjoy panoramic city views from observation decks. | Once Japan's tallest structure, symbolizing post-war reconstruction. | 1958 | Outdoor |
Arakawa | Walk through thousands of vibrant red torii gates. | Site of spiritual importance, dedicated to Inari, the Shinto deity. | 8th c. | Cultural Heritage |
Sumida | Experience 360-degree views from Japan's tallest tower. | Modern architectural feat and broadcasting hub. | 2012 | Outdoor |
Osaka · Osaka Prefecture | Explore Japan's history in a beautifully restored castle. | Key player in Japan's unification during the Azuchi Momoyama period. | 1583 | Cultural Heritage |
Hiroshima · Hiroshima Prefecture | Reflect on history and honor atomic bomb victims in a serene setting. | Memorializes Hiroshima, the first city hit by a nuclear attack during World War II. | 1954 | Cultural Heritage |
Nara · Nara Prefecture | Explore a monumental temple housing the world's largest bronze Buddha statue. | A UNESCO World Heritage Site and key monument of Nara's ancient history. | 752 | Cultural Heritage |
Himeji · Hyogo Prefecture | Admire Japan's best-preserved samurai castle known for its elegant white facade. | Regarded as the finest example of Japanese feudal architecture. | 1609 | Cultural Heritage |
Shinjuku | Relax in a spacious garden blending Japanese, English, and French landscapes. | Once a samurai residence, now a symbol of peace and cultural history. | 1949 | Outdoor |
Kyoto · Kyoto Prefecture | Walk through towering bamboo stalks and experience an iconic soundscape. | An emblematic Kyoto sight considered part of Japan's natural soundscape by the Ministry of the Environment. | — (natural) | Outdoor |
“Since” dates reflect earliest public access (opening/consecration/founding) or UNESCO/natural markers. Natural sites show “— (natural)”.
Explore by province
Click a city to open its highlights page. Provinces appear only when at least one city exists.
Hidden gems · Insider picks
Three lesser-known spots worth a detour—remote, scenic, or just special
Ouchijuku
Fukushima Prefecture
A preserved Edo-era post town that offers a rare glimpse into traditional Japanese architecture and culture.
Logistics: Reachable by train to Yunokami Onsen Station and a short bus ride.
Updated: 2025-09
Gokayama
Toyama Prefecture
Known for its UNESCO World Heritage gassho-zukuri farmhouses, providing a cultural and historical immersion.
Logistics: Accessible by bus from Takaoka Station.
Updated: 2025-09
When to go
Spring BlossomsMar–Apr: Enjoy the iconic cherry blossoms along with mild weather and festivals across major cities.
Summer AdventuresJun–Aug: Ideal for hiking in the Japanese Alps, with warm temperatures and lower off–peak accommodation rates.
Autumn ColorsSep–Nov: Spectacular fall foliage offers breathtaking views and enjoyable weather, perfect for exploring cultural sites.
Winter SportsDec–Feb: Hit the slopes in Hokkaido and the Japanese Alps, with perfect snow conditions and vibrant local apres–ski culture.
Weather varies by region—always check local forecasts.
Safety: practical snapshot
Overall call
Japan is generally safe, with few crime concerns.
- Petty theft in crowded areas.
- Earthquake risks due to seismic activity.
- Typhoons in summer months.
- Heatstroke in summer.
- Limited English in rural areas.
How to travel it safely
- Carry a copy of your passport.
- Secure bags in crowded places.
- Check earthquake emergency plans.
- Stay updated on weather alerts.
- Use public transport for convenience.
- Learn basic Japanese phrases.
- Purchase travel insurance for emergencies.
Emergency: Dial 110 for police or 119 for ambulance fire.
Local conditions and risks can change; stay informed.