Japan has long been a favorite holiday spot for foreign tourists, but last year saw a record number of tourists visiting The Land of the Rising Sun. This could probably be caused by a weaker yen and getting rid of of visa requirements for travellers from a few parts of Asia, but at the end of the day it’s the incredible attractions and things to see in Japan that are bringing people here.
1. Himeji Castle, Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture
Himeji Castle among Japan’s best preserved samurai castles and is a must see for every castle lover. The castle is more popularly known as “Shirasagi-jo”, which means White Heron Castle in Japanese because of its brilliant white exterior and its similarity to a heron taking flight. It was one of Japan’s very first UNESCO World Heritage Sites when listed in 1993, and is one of the original castles remaining in Japan from the samurai era.
2. The Phoenix Hall at Byodo-in Temple Uji City, Kyoto
The Phoenix Hall at Byodo-in Temple is considered as Japan’s most breathtaking building. If you want a preview, check out the back of a ¥10 coin, where one can see a picture of this exquisite building. The building is amongst the few original wooden structures to survive from the Heian Period (710 – 1185), and is one of Kyoto’s numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
3. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, Hiroshima City, Hiroshima
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park situated in the middle of Hiroshima City is made up of several memorials for the victims of the atomic bomb in Hiroshima. The objective of the park is not just to memorialize the victims of the bomb, but to also increase awareness of the horrors of nuclear war and promote world peace.
4. Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture
Kanazawa is a stunning city which is abundant with both culture and history. It has one of the better preserved samurai and geisha districts in all of Japan, and also being home to one of Japan’s best gardens in Kenroku-en. Kanazawa is among the best places in Japan and is well worth your time.
5. Koya-san, Wakayama Prefecture
Koya-san or Mount Koya is made up of a combination of temples, monasteries and necropolis located deep inside a mountainside forest. The area is one of Japan’s most sacred and pristing and is often referred to as the “Shangri-la” of Japan. Koya-san is best experienced with an over night stay at one of the town’s temple lodgings to experience Japanese spirituality and long-held religious traditions.
