Things to Do in Japan

Planning a vacation to visit tourist spots in Japan is an exciting occasion. Besides arranging to visit various historical locations, you may also witness the growth of the Land of the Sun Rising.

The progress of Japan as an industrial country, which is respected by Asia and the world, has been recognized long before their entrance to Indonesia in 1942. During the Meiji Restoration in 1868-1912, as an Asian Tiger, Japan performed in a dominant way. They gradually changed their face from feudalism to an industrial country.

The modernization was proceeding in an amazing way. At the beginning of 20th century, Japan overcame Russia because of their modern military arms. The successful accomplishment elicited the confidence inside of Japan’s military sector. In 1937, Japan arranged imperialism politic to China through a battle known as Rokoukyou Jiken or also known as the Incident of Rokou Bridge.

After they brought along United State into World War II through Pearl Harbour attack, Japan officially joined in Axis Block with German. That time, they strengthen their dominance by entering Indonesia territory in 1942.

The Fall of Japan

The defeat of German by the Soviet Union in the next year had weakened the Axis Block. The sequence of Allies Block attacks, which involving France, Great Britain, and China, eventually cut off Axis Block's defense.

Along with the German surrender and the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Japan stepped backward from a war on 15th of August in 1945.

Their defeat in World War II had put Japan in a great crisis. They lost 25 percent of country wealth. Their production in industrial sector only arrived at 10 percent. The modernization was decreasing comparing to the Meiji Restoration era.

Japan recovery phase after the World War II was started by focusing on infrastructure construction; they did not spend budget only for military sector. They constructed public facilities at entire districts thus supported them to fulfill 3T (transportation, technology, and tourism) conditions to become a leading country.

It was lesser than 20 years since the war aftermath, Japan finally revived. They introduced bullet train technology (Shinkansen), which linked the route between Tokyo and Osaka. Policies over technology aspect also encouraged the growth of automotive industry.

Besides the technical aspect of infrastructure regulation, Japan also managed the non-technical point. In the mid of 1980, Japan improved their culture and social factors into pop culture through animation, TV series, movie, fashion, and music. In a short time, the improvements were welcome by other countries, including Indonesia.

Enjoying the Rise of Japan

The sequence of Japan’s transformation story above can be a valuable knowledge for you. Based on the brief information about Japan development, you can decide what kind of tourist spots will be your destination. Besides historical places, you also must consider other types of amusing activities such as food hunting, shopping, or enjoying various entertainments.

Below are the 55 selected tourist spots in Japan. The arrangement is based on location. Now, please have a look!

8 Favorite Spots in Tokyo

1. Meiji Shrine

The shrine located at Shibuya district. You can reach the location by JR Yamanote Line and then get off at West Exit of Yoyogi Station.

Being in Meiji Shrine will let you see the traditional and religious side of Japanese people. As the oldest shrine in Tokyo, the buildings and environments are protected. So, while visiting the location, you must abide by the stated rule and manner.

The fee for this shrine is free of charge. However, if you want to get access to the Treasure House, you must prepare about ¥500-600. The shrine opens every day, from 06.00 in the morning until 05.00 evening.

2. Tokyo Tower

While in Tokyo, it is not complete before visiting one of its prominent tourist spot: Tokyo Tower. Located at Shibakoen Minato, you can visit this 333 meters’ height object by JR Keihin-Tohoku or JR Yamanote from Tokyo Station, and then get off at Hamamatsu Cho Station. From that point, you can continue by walk.

From the height, you can see a great landscape of Japan’s Capital: Mount Fuji in daylight and illumination of house and building in the night time. Before leaving the place, it is better to grab some special accessories or souvenirs. You can purchase them on the second floor.

For admission ticket, they offer two steps payment: first, on the first floor, you can pay about ¥800-900, and then ¥600 more if you decide to continue to 250-meter height. Tokyo Tower opens every day, from 09.00 in the morning to 11.00 evening.

3. Samurai Museum

Located at Shinjuku strategic area, this museum has a complete collection. Here, hundreds of years old Samurai armor and 800 years old sword are shown. You can reach the museum by walk from JR Shinjuku Station for 10 minutes.

At the beginning of your visiting, they will tell you about Samurai’s stories. At 01.00 PM, they will show you Samurai performances. Do not forget to try on Samurai armor, along with the helmet and weapons; you can choose them by yourself.

Samurai Museum opens every day, from 10.30 AM to 09.00 PM. To enjoy this historical course, you must pay about ¥1800-2000 per person.

4. Robot Restaurant

In Japan, there are so many tourist spots that have a thematic culinary concept. One of them is located in Shinjuku; it employs robot concept. The restaurant, which is also known as Kabukicho Robot Restaurant, displays robots that resemble a woman to amuse its customers.

It open at 04.00-11.30 PM, and you can reach the location from Shinjuku Station by walk for 10 minutes. To enjoy some attractions performed by the robots, you must pay a reservation for ¥3000-8000 via the official restaurant website.

5. Ryogoku Kokugikan

As a country where Sumo was born, Japan, of course, is ready to hold Sumo tournaments. If you are curious to witness the tournament, you may go to Ryogoku Kokugikan. The stadium has a capacity of 1300 people, and that makes there will be lots of people during a tournament. It might be very crowded, but worth.

You can get more information about tournament schedule from a pamphlet provided at the front side of the stadium. The pamphlet will inform you about the amount of tournament admission ticket.

The location of Ryogoku Kokugikan can be found by walk from Ryogoku Station on JR Sobu Line for 2 minutes or from Exit A4 of the Station through Toei Oedo Subway Line for 5 minutes.

6. Isetan Department Store

This tourist spot has been recognized as one of world favorite shopping paradises. The department store opens at 10.30 AM and closes at 08.00 PM. During the opening time, lots of customers will come, and the crowd of people never leaves the place before the closing time.

People can reach the department store by walk for 1 to 2 minutes from Shinjuku-sachome Station through Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line route. Or, they can also take an access by walk for 10 minutes through Odaku or Keio Line.

7. Koishikawa Botanical Garden

Koishikawa Botanical Garden is one of the public facilities that can be found inside of Tokyo University. With 160.000 square meters, it has 4000 variants of plants. You can access this place by subway through Toei Mita Line and then stop at Hakusan Station.

The unique part about Koishikawa Botanical Garden is its panorama in spring and autumn. In spring, it will show you group of beautiful cherries and the melancholic maple tree in autumn.

Besides the seasonal panorama, this botanical garden also frequently holds rice planting and harvest ceremony nearby the entrance area. Furthermore, if you are interested to know more about plants, you can prepare admission fee about ¥330-400. It is open from Tuesday-Sunday from 09.00 AM until 04.30 PM.

8. Tsukiji Fish Market

Assuming a fish market as one of a tourist spot is pretty unique due to its common appearance: messy, smelly, or unhygienic. However, Japan always puts their great effort over hygiene issue. So, you do not must worry about it.

Located in Chuo District, Tsukiji is not an ordinary fish market. Here, you can directly taste fresh fishes, which some of them are served as dishes like sushi. It is noted, 87 percent fish auction activity in Japan is happened in this market.

Auction activity is started at 03.00 AM. At 07.00 AM, the sold fishes will be delivered to the smaller shops. So, if you want to see the auction process, you can go to the market early in the morning. But, if you just want to taste a various fish dishes, you can visit several restaurants nearby the market.

4 Favorite Tourist Spots in Saitama

1. Musashi Ichinomiya Hikawa Shrine

This shrine is commonly called as Hikawa Shrine. Additional lettering of Musashi Ichinomiya is intended to honor the head of the Shinto shrine when the name was still Musashi Province.

The shrine opens every day, from 06.00 AM to 05.00 PM. The admission in Hikawa Shrine is free of charge. Located nearby Omiya Park, you can access this place by walk for 15-20 minutes from Omiya Station.

2. Kawagoe Ichibangai Shopping Street

Accordant to the name, this tourist spot is a place for shopping. Here, you will find various interesting goods and discover the beautiful traditional architecture of Japan. Located at the center of Kawagoe city, you can easily reach it by walk from Kawagoe Station.

3. Chichibu Kogen Farm

In general appearance, Saitama has a strong sense of countryside nuance. When you visit Chichibu Kogen Farm, you will feel the sense is even stronger.

Spacious and green, where rabbit and sheep are playing around, are a common view on this farm. On the 5 hectares’ field, there many different flowers are planted. This fact makes the farm becomes 15 million Flowers Park or Heavenly Poppies.

To visit Chichibu Kogen Farm, you can use a train from Tokyo Station to Minano Station. And then, continue your journey using a free of charge shuttle bus to the farm. The total fee that you must prepare is about ¥200.

4. G-Cans Project

Originally, this place is not for tourism object. However, the underground water management attracts many tourists since its introduction in 2009.

Trekking is an activity that you can do in the anti-flood tunnel. While crossing giant concretes, you can see a water tank that resembles a shrine design.

Built at Kasukabe District, G-Cans Project is also known as Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel. If you decide to visit this place, make sure to bring comfortable and non-slippery footwear so that you can enjoy the 6.5 kilometers’ underground architecture at ease. 

3 Selected Tourist Spots in Yamanashi

1. Yamanashi Fuefukigawa Fruit Park

In Japan, Yamanashi Prefecture is known as the best fruit producer. Based on the fact, it is not a surprise when Fuefukigawa decides to use fruit as the park theme.

This park is a suitable destination for a family. With ¥200-600 admission fee per person, you and family can enjoy the amusement options and witness the view of Mount Fuji.

To arrive at Fuefukigawa Fruit Park, you can use JR Chuo Line and then stop at Yamanashi-shi Station. It opens every day, from 09.30 AM to 05.00 PM.

2. Nishizawa Valley

One of the best natural tourist objects in Yamanashi is Nishizawa Valley. The valley is part of Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park.

Hiking at Nishizawa Valley is very suitable for you who want to enjoy the rural side of Japan. The calming sound of river and waterfall will complete your 90 minutes hiking.

The best moment to visit this valley is nearby the end of autumn, or at the beginning of November. From Shinjuku Station, you can use JR Chuo Line to Enzan or Yamanashi Station. After that, you may continue your trip by bus.

3. Takeda-Jinja shrine

Takeda-Jinja Shrine is a historical architecture that holds a life story of a nobleman, namely Takeda Shingen. His three generations also lived there.

The nobleman’s heroic story when he was still alive becomes the main attraction for this shrine. More than just a building, this shrine is a historical resource and admiration for Japanese people.

You can know more about the nobleman history by visiting Takeda-Jinja, and it is free of charge. It opens every day from 09.00 AM to 04.30 PM, and the access to this shrine can be by shuttle bus from Kofu Station.

5 Favorite Tourist Spots in Hokkaido

1. Kamui Misaki

Located in Niseko Shakotan Otaru Quasi-National Park region, Kamui Misaki is the best peninsulas where people can see Japan beautiful sea. At the location, you might witness underwater panorama until 30 meters’ depth.

In Ainu language, ‘Kamui’ means God. There is no doubt for the title because the peninsula, indeed, will show you paradise-like scenery. From the top of hills, you can prove its beauty through big rocks’ appearance on the surface of the sea.

For a perfect and comfortable trip, it is better to not visiting Kamui Misaki during winter. Leaving from the center of Sapporo city, a car will take you to the Niseko Shakotan National Park for 2 hours.

2. Goryokaku Tower

The tower, which was part of Goryokaku Fort, has a unique layout. The design was initiated by Takeda Hisaburo. Resembling the shape of a star, this building attracts people's attention.

If you want to know more about Goryokaku Fort, you may go to Goryokaku History Corridor showroom. Regard to the seasonal occasion, and it is better to go there in spring because thousands of Sakura will be in a perfect blossom.

After arriving at Goryokaku Koen Iriguchi by bus, Hakodate District, you can continue to the location by walk for 7 minutes. Admission payment is about ¥800-900. It opens from 09.00 AM to 06.00 PM

3. Asahiyama Zoo

Winter in Japan is a perfect moment to skiing. And another option is visiting Asahiyama Zoo, in Higashi Asahikawa Cho Kuranuma, Asahikawa. You can access this location using Asahikawa Denki Kido bus from station and airport.

The main attraction of the zoo is the concept that let the animal live in wildlife snowy place. People will see how penguins are running around to gather their foods. At the selected zones, visitors are also able to discover the existence of seals, polar bear, and wolves.

In winter, Asahiyama Zoo Garden will open at 10.30 AM, and close at 03.30 PM. In summer, the zoo will open at 09.30 AM to 05.30 PM. The admission ticket is about ¥750-800.

4. Historical Village of Hokkaido or Kaitaku no Mura

Traveling to this place will be an exciting trip. At the village, visitors will discover unique and historical houses or buildings, from Meiji Era until the latest ones. To get there, you can ride a train to Shinrin Koen Station, and then continue your journey using a bus for 15 minutes.

Historical Village Hokkaido is divided into four parts, that is town area, fishing area, agriculture area, and hills area. The fee to enjoy this trip is ¥680 in winter and ¥850-900 in summer.

Kaitaku no Mura has strict visiting terms. You can come from 09.00 AM to 05.00 PM. In winter period, opening time is ended 30 minutes earlier. They close on Monday. If Monday is a day off, then they will close on Tuesday. From December 29th to January 3rd, Kaitaku no Mura will not accept visitors.

5. Susukino

To complete your vacation in Hokkaido, spare your time to visit nightlife district, Susukino. Located 10 minutes from Susukino Station by walk, this place offers you a great shopping and food hunting experience.

This district is one of Sapporo economy boosters. Their existence has been recognized since 1920 and grew bigger after Sapporo became a host for the Olympic in winter of 1972.

As a nightlife area, Susukino will open till dawn. Before finishing your food hunting, hurry up spot their special mascot, Tanukikoji!s

3 Selected Tourist Spots in Miyagi

1. Naruko Gorge

Trip in autumn will be more satisfying if you go to Naruko Gorge. The Valley offers you an attractive and beautiful view. From October to November, leaves will change their colors and cover the entire ravine.

The access to Naruko Gorge can be by riding in JR Tohoku Shinkansen Line for 2 hours from Tokyo and then stop at Furukawa. Or, you may leave from Naruko-Onsen using JR Rikuu-to Line for 40 minutes.

2. Shiogama Jinja

Shiogama Jinja is one of the oldest shrines in Miyagi. Built in the 9th century, this place becomes a special attraction for tourists.

As a coastal city, natives believe that this shrine is built to protect the fishermen. The are many people come to the shrine and state their prayer to the gods.

Located in Ichimoriyama, Shiogama-shi, Miyagi-ken, they open from 05.00 AM to 08.00 PM, and it is free of charge. The visitor may access it by walk from Hon-Shiogama Station for 15 minutes.

3. Yunuma Hot Spring

Taking place at 5122, Takenomori, Takahata-machi, Higurashiokitama-gun, this hot spring is the mainstay object in Takahata district. The countryside panorama makes you feel like in the middle of Highlands. From Takahata Station, you may leave by car for 20 minutes.

3 Favorite Tourist Spots in Ishikawa

1. Okunoto Salt Farm Village

A vacation will be more interesting if you can gain new experiences. For instance, you could learn about a salt processing directly. This village is located at 1-58-1 Shimizu-machi, Suzu Town in Ishikawa.

For the salt processing, Okunoto Village uses a special technique called Agehama Style. The technique has been employed since Edo Era and inherited for 500 years till this very day. One of the heirs is Kakuhana family, which has continued using the technique until the fifth generation.

They accept visitors every day, from 09.00 am to 04.30 PM, in May 1st to September 30th. With ¥100-200, they will teach you their special technique. To arrive at the location, you may leave from Okunoto Kanko Kaihatsu Shimizu bus stop by walk for 2 minutes.

2. Myoryuji Ninja Temple

One of the prominent Japanese marks is Ninja. At Myoryuji Temple, visitors will see Ninja tricky strategies through numbers of trap created by them.

Once upon a time, the temple was used by Maeda Toshitsune as a hiding place. He was a ruler from Kaga clan, who often being chased by enemies. During the indoor tour, a guide will lead you to find out the life of Maeda.

This temple is located at Teramachi District, Kanazawa. Their opening time is from 09.00 AM to 04.30 PM, and the admission ticket is ¥1000. The best accommodation to reach the temple is by riding in Kanazawa Loop Bus.

3. Higashichaya Old Town

The area of Higashichaya Old Town might not be as busy as during their heyday. However, the entertaining atmosphere of Chaya style still exists in Higashiyama, Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture.

Similar to other chayas, this Chaya also employs geishas as the entertainer. They know very well how to play music and perform Japanese traditional dance. When you are there, do not forget to explore their amazing room interior and building design.

Take Hokutotsu bus, and then stop at Hashi Age-cho. From that point, you can continue to Higasichaya by walk for 6 minutes.

4 Selected Tourist Objects in Shizuoka

1. Fuji-Q Highland

Fuji-Q Highland is amusement park that is located in Fujigoko, right nearby the base of Mount Fuji. Here, you may bring along your kids and family to try various attractions.

This anime theme park has four major roller coasters. One of them is the highest roller coaster in the world, namely Fujiyama. Secondly, Dodonpa, which is the fastest roller coaster at Fuji-Q Highland. The third is Eejanaika with its spinning chairs, and the fourth is the steepest roller coaster in the world, Takabisha.

Access to the theme park can be by train or bus. For the admission ticket, visitors must prepare about ¥20.000-25.000.

2. Shiraito Falls

Shiraito Waterfall is located at Mount Fuji southwest slope, Kamiide, Fujinomiya, 418-0192 Shizuoka Prefecture.

The waterfall has 20 meters’ height with a flat stream. In spring, the waterfall becomes the water source for Mount Fuji. Besides fishing and spending leisure time, this place is also used for meditating by Fujiko adherents.

You can start your trip to Shiraito Fall from Shizuoka Station by JR Tokaido Line for 60 minutes, and then arrive at Fujinomiya Station. After that, you can continue by riding in a tour bus.

3. Fuji Safari Park

Addressed at C 2255-27 Suyama, Susono, 410-1231 Shizuoka Prefecture, this safari park becomes the widest and biggest park in Japan. After paying ¥1500 for the tour package, you can see dozens of animal species by bus for 50 minutes.

At Fuji Safari Park, you can experience riding a pony and attending a horse race tournament. For safari night session, you can try it on April till October by giving ¥1800.

To reach the park location, you can use JR Tokaido Line or Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo Station, and then get off at Mishima Station. After that, you can continue using the local bus. The total time you need for the trip is 90 minutes.

4. Kunozan Toshogu Shrine

This Shinto shrine has a long story over Japan Empire history. A massive restoration that happened during Meiji Era generated people interest in tourism at Kunozan Toshogu. In the shrine area, there are 13 constructions, which 2 of them are the main buildings, Honden and Heiden.

The admission ticket for this shrine is about ¥800-1000. Come to the place by Shizutetsu Justline bus from Shizuoka Station.

5 Selected Tourist Spots in Kyoto

1. Otowa-san Kiyomizu-dera

The Buddhist shrine that is recognized as one of world cultural heritage by UNESCO is located at 294-Kiyomizu 1-chome, Higashiyama Ward. You can reach the spot by walk for 10 minutes from Kiyomizu-michi bus stop.

Kiyomizu-dera is built on the woody hills and offers beautiful town scenery. It has three diverse waterfall streams or known as Otowa-no-taki, and many people believe that they are blessed after drinking the water –drink from a different stream in one shot might bring a bad thing. This belief, apparently, brings more tourists; visitors must get in line to see the beautiful view.

They open every day, from 06.00 AM to 06.00 PM, and the admission fee is about ¥500. Additionally, during the waiting time, you might spend more money because they also offer various kinds of souvenirs.

2. Gion District

Gion is a district in Kyoto Prefecture that is known as an exclusive geisha area in Japan. However, Gion geishas prefer to call themselves as ‘geiko' or ‘an artist.'

This district is identical to their Japanese style old houses, namely machiya. The meaning is similar to ochaya or tea house, where geiko makes an exclusive performance. The popular Gion Matsuri (festival) is frequently held at Gion.

To get there, you can ride a bus number 100 or 206 from Kyoto Station, and then get off at Gion bus Stop.

3. Kifune Shrine

Kifune Shrine is located at Kibune District, a woody valley area at the northern of Kyoto highland. The district is linked with the center of Kyoto City through Eizan Railway. You can arrive at Kibune-guchi station using Eizan Kurama, and then continue the journey by walk for 20 minutes.

The shrine has 3 separated pavilions. First is Honguu, it was rebuilt in 2007. Second is Nakamiya; you can get a fortune-telling in a piece of paper, namely omikuji. The last is Okumiya, the original shrine, which is placed 400 meters to the north. The visiting time at Kifune Shrine is between 08.00 AM to 06.00 PM, and it is free of charge.

Before coming to this shrine, make sure to notice the schedule during winter to spring and summer to autumn period. In winter and spring, they close 2 hours earlier.

4. Amanohasidate

Located in the northern of Kyoto, this coastal area is also called as Bridge in Heaven. The nickname refers to the curving dune that looks like a link between earth and sky, especially when people see it from Highland on both sides of the bay.

On the surface of the dune, 8000 best pines are planted. There are special names for the pines, like Meoto Matsu for Couple Pine, Nakayoshi Matsu for Friendly Pine, and Chie no Matsu for Wisdom Pine.

South end of the sand can be reached from Amanohasidate Station by walk for 5 minutes. The budget for this trip is about ¥850-1000.

You can come at 09.00 AM to 05.30 PM in February 21st until July 20th, at 08.30 AM to 06.30 PM in July 21st until August 20th), at 09.00 AM to 05.30 PM in August 21st until October 20th, and at 09.00 am to 05.00 PM on October 21st until February 20th.

5 Selected Tourist Spots in Osaka

1. Osaka Castle

Osaka Castle is the mark for Toyotomi Hideyoshi reign glorious era. He was known as the historical figure who loved gold. That is why; the weapon, building (inside and outside), and furniture are made of gold.

The castle was also being a power struggle arena among noblemen. As a result, this castle got reconstructed in numerous time. After Ieyasu Tokugawa had won the war, Osaka Castle became a military fortress.

The access to this castle can be by using Osaka Loop Line (Japan Rail Pass) for 9 minutes, from Osaka Station to Osakajo Koen Station. After that, you can continue to the main tower by walk for 15 minutes.

They open every day, except on the Year-End holiday in December 28th until January 1st, from 09.00 AM to 05.00 PM. The admission ticket is ¥700.

2. Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Step in Osaka Bay area; you will see Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan in village port Tempozan. The aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in Japan; it collects up to 620 species.

It takes place at 1-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato-ku, 552-0033 Osaka, the child-friendly tourist spot can be accessed through several ways. First, is riding a train from Namba Station (Shinsaibashi) for 30 minutes. Second is ferrying from Universal Studio area for 10 minutes. And the last is by Chuo Line heading to Osakako Station, and then walking for 5 minutes.

Aquarium Kaiyukan operates from 10.00 AM to 08.00 PM. With ¥2500, you may enjoy the view of sea life inside 15 tanks, and the largest is containing whales, namely the Pacific Ocean.

3. Namba Parks

Namba Parks is the combination between natural and shopping tourist object. In October of 2003, it started to accept visitors. To arrive at this tourist spot, you can use Kintetsu Line, Nankai Line, or Midosuji Line. Get off at Namba Station, and then keep going to walk for 15 minutes.

The park is built in an area that previously used for a baseball field. Located in the center of the town; it makes the place is easy to access by any transportations. Namba Parks operates from 11.00 AM to 09.00 PM.

Similar to a common shopping center, they provide you various goods like clothes, bags, shoes, accessories, and daily utensils. Besides the type of goods, they also have numbers of a well-known brand.

4. Shinsekai

Shinsekai is a district that was developed after National Industrial Exposition (1903). Following the successful expo, over 5 million people moved into the district within five months.

The construction and improvement are divided into two types. The northern side of Shinsekai resembles Paris, and the southern side resembles Coney Island of New York.

While you are in this district, you can visit Tsutenkaku Tower, which was built after Paris constructed the Eiffel Tower. For another option, you can treat your body by taking a hot bath at Spa World. Complete your visit with Kushikatsu or known as meat skewer.

To reach Shinsekai District, you can do it by walk from several stations like Shin-Imamiya (JR Loop Line), Dobutsuen-mae (Midosiju route), or Ebisucho (Sakaisuji Subway Line).

5. National Museum of Art

Osaka National Museum Art, or Kokuritsu Kokusai Bijutsukan in the Japanese language, takes over two underground floors on Nakanoshima Island in central of Osaka. The museum collection is focusing on Japanese and foreign contemporary arts.

Location of this museum can be reached by walk in 10 minutes, from Higobashi or Nakanoshima Station. They open from 10.00 AM to 05.00 PM, and the admission fee is ¥420.

The organizer will close the museum 2 hours later on Friday. They also close on Monday (or Tuesday if Monday is a national day off) and New-Year holiday.s

5 Favorite Tourist Spots in Hiroshima

1. The Great Torii of Miyajima

Itsukushima has been a popular attraction in Prefecture Hiroshima for centuries. The official name of the shrine is Itsukushima, but many people prefer to name it as Miyajima or island shrine because its torri-gate seems floating above the water.

To reach the Itsukushima Shrine, you can walk in 10 minutes from Miyajima ferry dock. The shrine complex consists of several buildings like prayer rooms, main room, and theater. Sidewalks connect the entire buildings and supported by pillars above the sea.

Itsukushima Shrine accepts visitors from 06.30 AM to 06.00 PM. In certain seasons, the operation schedule might be changed. However, this shrine is never closed. By paying ¥500, you will get a complete shrine tour package and access to the Treasure Hall.

2. Shukkeien Garden

Shukkeien Garden is a complete miniature, a combination of the Valley, Highland, and woods. You can enjoy the view by walk from Hiroshima Station for 15 minutes. It is a short walk from Shukkeien-mae tram stop.

Shukkaeien has a long history—since the year 1620, right after the construction of Hiroshima castle. There are many traditional cultures are shown in the form of aesthetic features around the park.

A trip to this park will only cost you ¥250. Before the New Year holiday, from December 29th to 30th, the park will close. On a regular day, they will open at 09.00 to 06.00 PM in April until September and at 09.00 AM to 05.00 PM in October until March.

3. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum

Hiroshima peace memorial museum is built on a 1200 hectares’ field. In the old days, the field was a center for the economy and government activity. And, it was also an underlying reason for the United States in determining the bombing location.

The access to the museum can be by riding in a tram from Hiroshima Station through line 2 or 6. Get off at G-Station, and then continue by walk for 15 minutes.

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum consists of two buildings, which each of them tells the history of Hiroshima before the bombing and its recovery situation after that.

The museum opens every day, except on 30th and 31st of December. By paying ¥200, you can feel the shades of humanity in the museum at 08.30 AM until 06.00 PM. The operation time will change in August (close at 07.00 PM) and in December until February (close at 05.00 PM).

4. The Cenotaph

The Cenotaph, which is still in the same area with Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, is a curved monument used as the bombing victim memorial place. Under the curve, there is a names list that consists of 220.000 people.

Every year, people will arrange a memorial ceremony for the victims by holding a speech, laying wreaths, and moment of silence session at 09.15 AM, according to the bombing time.

5. Mitaki-dera Hiroshima

Addressed at 411 Mitakiyama, Nishi Ward, Hiroshima, Mitaki-dera is a temple that has a various wooden pagoda. This temple is located nearby a valley, woods, and waterfall.

The wooden pagoda is an offering to honor Kanon (gods) and to serve a memorial ceremony for the victims of an atomic bomb in Hiroshima. The most attractive pagoda in the temple is tohoto or also known as The Red Vermillion.

The easiest way to reach this place is by using JR train and then stop at Mitake Station. Through Kabe line after Yokogawa Station, continue the journey by walk for 15 to 20 minutes. Besides that, you may also ride in a bus that leaves from Hatchobori once in an hour.

3 Favorite Tourist Objects in Fukuoka

1. Ohori Park

Ohori Park is an interesting place with a big pool right in the middle of the park. Located in the center of Fukuoka city, the pool has lesser than 2 kilometers’ length. Many people usually spend their time there by walking with pet or jogging.

In Japanese language, Ohori means moat. The pool once became part of an important Fukuoka Castle moat system. Built between the year 1926-1929, this park employed West Lake classic style from China.

The access to Ohori Park is a short walk from Ohori Koen Station.

2. Tenjin Underground City

Tenjin Underground City is an underground shopping complex. While you go down the aisles, you can shop and enjoy the building architecture. The location is in Underground 1-3, Tenjin 2, Chuo-ku.

This Underground City also has a connection with more than 20 office buildings, subway stations, and department store above it. Therefore, this area might be very crowded on the weekends. Stores and restaurants will open from 10.00 AM until 09.00 PM.

To reach Tenjin Underground City, you can choose whether by bus (stop at Tenjin Minami, Tenjin-mae, Solaria Stage-mae, or Tenjin-Kita), train (route to Fukuoka Station), or subway (stop at Tenjin Station through Koku Line or Tenjin-Minami through Nanakuma Line).

3. Nokonoshima Island Park

Take a ferry from Meinohama, and within 10 minutes, you will arrive at Nokonoshima Island Park. Positioned in the middle of Hakata Bay, this park is rich of a natural panorama. The width is 1500 hectares; extending in the northern part of Nokonoshima Islands.

The park is full of blossoms and looks instragamable (look great in a photo). On Monday until Friday, it opens from 09.00 PM to 05.30 PM. While on weekend and day off, the park will close at 06.30 PM.

3 Selected Tourism Objects in Nagasaki

1. Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum

After riding in a bus from JR Nagasaki Station and get off at Hamaguchi-machi, you can continue by walk for 5 minutes to arrive at the atomic bomb victim memorial museum. In the museum, there is a various collection of the dioramas, videos, and photos, which will show you about the effect of the Nagasaki atomic bombing.

Visiting time is available throughout the week, from 08.30 AM to 06.30 PM. In September until April period, the closing time is one hour earlier, and they also close on 29-31 December. The admission ticket is about ¥200.

2. Mount Inasa

Mount Inasa or Inasayama in Japanese is a 333 meters’ height mount, which is not too far from the center of Nagasaki City. To reach the location, you can use different type if transportations, like by cable car or bus.

If you decide to use cable car, this transportation will cost you ¥720 for one-way riding, and ¥1230 for round riding. By ride in a bus from Nagasaki Station, you will arrive at the cable car station within 10 minutes.

The second option is by bus. If you want to have a trip by Nagasaki Bus, you must wait for the bus (leave every 1-2 hours). With ¥150, the bus will take you to Inasayama bus stop for 15 minutes.

3. Dejima

Dejima is an artificial island located in Nagasaki harbor. Built in 1636, the island was a movement of Japanese people to expel Portuguese existence and control their missionary activity.

Nowadays, Dejima is not an island any longer because the area has been reclaimed during the 20th century. However, some of Dejima historical structures are kept and being reconstructed.

You can arrive at Dejima by riding in a tram number 1 from Nagasaki Station. This tourism object is open every day, from 08.00 AM to 06.00 PM. During summer and holiday, Dejima will close at 07.00 PM. The budget for this trip is about ¥510.

4 Favorite Tourist Spots in Okinawa

1. Shuri Castle

Shuri Castle is one of world heritage sites. On the old days, Shuri was a capital city of the Ryukyu Kingdom. In 1879, Okinawa became the prefecture of Japan. And then, the function of Shuri was changed. The buildings today: the way to the main castle, several gates including Shureimon is a result of reconstruction in 1992.

The access to Shuri Castle can be by walk for 15 minutes from Shuri Station or by riding in a bus number 7 and 8 and get off at Shurijo-mae. After paying for 820 dollars, you can visit the castle from 8.30 until 07.00. Every first Wednesday and Thursday in July, the castle will not accept visitors.

2. Gyokusendo Cave

Gyokusendo is the longest cave in southern of Okinawa Island. Located at Tamagusuku Maekawa, Nanjo City, Okinawa Prefecture, you can arrive at the cave by driving a car for 30 minutes. Or, you can choose to go there by Okinawa Express for 10 minutes.

In the cave, access with amazing lighting has been set. Thus, you can enjoy the glowing stalactite and stalagmite and do not must worry about getting lost. The admission ticket for this place is ¥620 for children and ¥1240 for the adult.

3. Mihama American Village

Mihama American Village is a big entertainment complex that is located in the center of Okinawa Honto, 15 kilometers in northern of Naha. American military base affects the American Village concept.

Mihama American Village is a shopping center, which consists of many stores, restaurants, and outdoor cafés. To reach the location, you can go by bus number 28, 29, or 120 from Naha bus stop.

Some store and restaurants usually start to serve visitors at 11.00 AM and close at 09.00 PM.

4. Ryukyu Mura

Ryukyu Mura is a village that is located at Onna, in Kunigami-gun region. Being in the village will give you a chance to know more about the traditional culture of Okinawa.

While visiting Ryukyu Mura, you can try their traditional candy, sugar cane juice, making shiisa (lion statue), making ceramics, and traditional music instrumental. In July until September, the schedule is started from 09.00 AM to 06.00 PM. While in October until June, it starts from 08.30 AM to 05.30 PM.

Do not forget to taste their special cuisines like sea wine, island tofu, mozuku, Blue Seal Ice, and parfait, which use local fruits as the main ingredients.

The access to Ryukyu Mura is by bus from Okinawa or Ryukyu to Nago for 1 hour. Or, you can get there by driving a car from Naha Airport through Japan National Route 58, 30 kilometers to the north, for 1 hour.

Those are the 55 selected tourist spots in Japan, which will help you to arrange your vacation. Don’t forget to make your itinerary before departure. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your suitcases and travel to Japan! Enjoy your trip in the Land of Sakura.