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  1. #1
    Thailand Expat misskit's Avatar
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    8 Best Places To Visit In Japan In 2023: Explore The Land Of The Rising Sun

    Best Places To Visit In Japan: Japan is a country that is rich in history and culture, and it has a unique way of blending the traditional and the modern.


    From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the tranquil gardens of Kyoto, there is something for everyone in Japan.


    Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient temples, trying delicious food, or experiencing the latest technology, Japan has it all.

    In this article, we will take a look at the best places to visit in Japan and help you plan your perfect trip.



    Best Places to Visit in Japan


    Tokyo: The Capital of Japan


    Tokyo is the capital of Japan and one of the most exciting cities in the world. It is a place where the traditional and the modern come together, creating a unique atmosphere unlike anywhere else.


    Some of the must-see attractions in Tokyo include:


    Tokyo Tower: A symbol of Tokyo that offers a panoramic view of the city.
    Shibuya Crossing: The busiest intersection in the world, where thousands of people cross the street at once.
    Tsukiji Fish Market: One of the largest fish markets in the world, where you can taste the freshest sushi.
    Meiji Shrine: A beautiful shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his wife Empress Shoken.



    Kyoto: The Cultural Capital of Japan

    Kyoto is the cultural capital of Japan and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in traditional Japanese culture.


    It is home to over 1,600 temples and shrines and some of the most beautiful gardens in the world. Some of the must-see attractions in Kyoto include:


    Kiyomizu-dera Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers stunning views of Kyoto.
    Fushimi Inari Shrine: A shrine famous for its thousands of torii gates.
    Arashiyama Bamboo Forest: A beautiful bamboo forest that is perfect for a relaxing walk.
    Gion District: A historic district famous for its geisha and traditional architecture.



    Osaka: The Culinary Capital of Japan


    Osaka is the culinary capital of Japan and a great destination for foodies. It is known for its street food, such as takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (Japanese pancake). Some of the must-see attractions in Osaka include:


    Dotonbori: A street famous for its neon lights and delicious street food.
    Osaka Castle: A beautiful castle that offers a glimpse into the history of Osaka.
    Universal Studios Japan: A theme park that offers fun for the whole family.
    Kuromon Ichiba Market: A market where you can taste some of the best seafood in Japan.



    Hiroshima: The City of Peace


    Hiroshima is a city that has a tragic history but has become a symbol of peace and hope. It is the site of the first atomic bomb that was dropped during World War II, and today it is a city that is dedicated to promoting peace.


    Some of the must-see attractions in Hiroshima include:


    Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park: A park dedicated to promoting peace and commemorating the victims of the atomic bomb.
    Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum: A museum that tells the story of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and its aftermath.
    Miyajima Island is a beautiful island home to the famous Itsukushima Shrine and its iconic floating torii gate.
    Hiroshima Castle: A castle that was destroyed during the atomic bombing but has been rebuilt and now serves as a museum.



    Nara: The Ancient Capital of Japan


    Nara is an ancient city that was once the capital of Japan. It is home to some of the oldest and most beautiful temples and shrines in Japan and some of the most friendly and curious deer roaming the city.




    Some of the must-see attractions in Nara include:


    Todai-ji Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to the world’s largest bronze statue of Buddha.
    Nara Park: A park that is home to hundreds of friendly and curious deer that roam freely.
    Kasuga-taisha Shrine: A shrine that is famous for its thousands of lanterns that light up at night.
    Horyu-ji Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to some of the oldest wooden buildings in the world.



    Mount Fuji: The Iconic Symbol of Japan

    Mount Fuji is the highest mountain in Japan and an iconic symbol of the country. It is located about 100 kilometers southwest of Tokyo and is a popular destination for hikers and tourists.


    Some of the must-see attractions around Mount Fuji include:


    Fuji Five Lakes: A group of five beautiful lakes that offer stunning views of Mount Fuji.
    Hakone: A hot spring resort area that is famous for its natural beauty and stunning views of Mount Fuji.
    Chureito Pagoda: A pagoda that offers a stunning view of Mount Fuji and the surrounding area.
    Gotemba Premium Outlets: A shopping mall that offers discounted prices on high-end brands and products.



    Hokkaido: The Winter Wonderland of Japan


    Hokkaido is the northernmost island of Japan and a winter wonderland that offers some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the world.


    It is also known for its beautiful nature and delicious seafood. Some of the must-see attractions in Hokkaido include:


    Sapporo: The largest city in Hokkaido and home to the famous Sapporo Snow Festival.
    Niseko: A ski resort that is famous for its powder snow and stunning views of Mount Yotei.
    Shiretoko National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to some of the most beautiful nature in Japan.



    Okinawa: The Tropical Paradise of Japan


    Okinawa is a tropical paradise that is located in the southernmost part of Japan. It is known for its beautiful beaches, clear blue waters, and unique culture.


    Some of the must-see attractions in Okinawa include:


    Shuri Castle: A UNESCO World Heritage Site that was the royal palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom.
    Churaumi Aquarium: One of the largest aquariums in the world that is home to a wide variety of marine life.
    Kokusai Street: A popular shopping street that is lined with restaurants, souvenir shops, and bars.
    Ishigaki Island is a beautiful island known for its stunning beaches and coral reefs.



    Conclusion

    Japan is a country that has something for everyone.


    From the bustling cities of Tokyo and Osaka to the beautiful beaches of Okinawa and the historic temples of Kyoto, there are endless places to explore and things to see in Japan.


    Whether you are interested in food, culture, nature, or history, Japan has it all. So if you are planning a trip to Japan, be sure to include these best places to visit in Japan in your itinerary.


    8 Best Places To Visit In Japan In 2023: Explore The Land Of The Rising Sun

  2. #2
    Thailand Expat tomcat's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by misskit View Post
    Best Places To Visit In Japan
    ...thanks...planning a week in Kyoto next year...

  3. #3
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    An amazing country, used to work/live there and enjoyed every minute of it. From the people to the food to the landscape - simply wonderful.

    Of the top Eight, I've been to:

    Tokyo
    Kyoto
    Osaka
    Hokkaido
    Moutn Fuji
    Nara

    . . . one of the few countries I'd live and work in again in a heartbeat.

  4. #4
    Thailand Expat misskit's Avatar
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    I’ve not been to Okinawa but have a trip planned for September.

    I love Japan but not keen on living there.

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    Quote Originally Posted by tomcat View Post
    ...thanks...planning a week in Kyoto next year...
    Lived in Kyoto for a couple of years. Wonderful city. You could spend a month just visiting the temples. Make sure you check out Nijo Castle.

    Kyoto is hot and humid, as hell, in the summer, though.

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    Quote Originally Posted by misskit View Post
    I’ve not been to Okinawa but have a trip planned for September.

    I love Japan but not keen on living there.
    It’s not easy, especially after living in Thailand. I read somewhere once that Japanese are extremely polite, but rarely friendly. Pretty spot on, IMO.

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    Surprised that Kobe did not make that list. It’s another beautiful city.

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    Thailand Expat misskit's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by beachbound View Post
    It’s not easy, especially after living in Thailand. I read somewhere once that Japanese are extremely polite, but rarely friendly. Pretty spot on, IMO.
    My problem isn’t with the Japanese people. If you don’t know, I was married to a Japanese man (who recently passed away) and lived there several years. It is that life in Japan is too tough for me. The number of shoulder to shoulder people in Tokyo and getting pushed around on public transportation is too much for me. On the other hand, life in the countryside of Japan is too boring. I never found a middle ground.

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    I understand. Sorry, I didn’t know your story.
    I experienced both ends of the spectrum, spending six months in Tokyo, and a year in Miki city, a tiny little town outside of Kobe. Tokyo was a hassle, and Miki City, was painfully boring.
    The highlight of my day in Miki City was my bike ride home from work. I’d stop at a Bento shop for dinner, and to the local liquor store for a couple of Asahi beers. I’d hang out in my apartment, eating dinner, and watching Japanese baseball on TV. The next day, get up and do it again.

  10. #10
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    Decent list, and agree its a wonderful place to visit, decent place to live, bit terrible place to work.

    you can also pick up houses for practically zero in the countryside, but that would be challenging.

    i would add Yokohama, overlooked because of vicinity to Tokyo, Kamakura/ Enoshima, Japan's ancient capital and Blackpool, and definitely Kobe. But not Nagoya, because its shit.

    Fukaoka is supposed to be the biz also, but never been.
    we won it at wemberlee
    we on it in gay paree...

  11. #11
    Thailand Expat misskit's Avatar
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    Japan at one time was crazily overpriced. Over the years prices for food and clothing haven’t risen, like they are in some kind of time warp. I just isn’t as expensive as it once was compared to other countries.

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    Thailand Expat Storekeeper's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by misskit View Post
    My problem isn’t with the Japanese people. If you don’t know, I was married to a Japanese man (who recently passed away) and lived there several years. It is that life in Japan is too tough for me. The number of shoulder to shoulder people in Tokyo and getting pushed around on public transportation is too much for me. On the other hand, life in the countryside of Japan is too boring. I never found a middle ground.
    Did tours in Japan on active duty from 1979-1981: 1984-1987, 1995, 2004-2007 and as a civilian from 2010-2012 and 2014-2017. Could have been there right now working as a contractor on base. First wife is Japanese and had two kids with her. Heck my current wife did 3 tours working at the Navy Exchange from 2005-2007: 2010-2012 and 2014-2017. Earned herself a small 401K. Plus my step-daughter graduated from high school on base in Yokosuka, Japan.

    My thoughts based on the above … clean, beautiful country. So easy to get around and a super safe place to be. If the first wife and I hadn’t divorced I’d probably be working in Japan right now with the long term plan of living my days out there. But, I’d be living within the vicinity of a US military base. Makes a huge difference being able to basically walk on to a base and feel like you’re back in the states kinda for things like commissary shopping, Navy Exchange, hospital, free world class gyms, super low cost movie theatres. And we love the restaurants in Japan probably as much as here Pattaya. Especially yakiniku.

  13. #13
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    It is a beautiful special place. Regret I no longer have my photos which were pre digital.
    I would like to visit Hokkaido one day.

    Food superb
    Baths wonderful
    Public transport first class cheap clean fast
    vending machines extraordinary
    Tsukiji fish market must see at dawn plus small Shinto shrine behind, had a great time with the then resident monk who explained the history and background to a parvenu.

    I liked the small Mizuma art gallery walking distance from the controversial Yasukini war memorial

    It s about 5m walk along lake NE of Ichigaya Train Station

    Directions here
    Google Maps

    While most young speak a little English little is written in english outside the big cities
    Quote Originally Posted by Latindancer View Post
    I just want the chance to use a bigger porridge bowl.

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    Quote Originally Posted by misskit View Post
    My problem isn’t with the Japanese people. If you don’t know, I was married to a Japanese man (who recently passed away) and lived there several years. It is that life in Japan is too tough for me. The number of shoulder to shoulder people in Tokyo and getting pushed around on public transportation is too much for me. On the other hand, life in the countryside of Japan is too boring. I never found a middle ground.
    Oh,thats sad. Im sure you gave it good try though

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    My one and only experience of japan was a while ago. Took my wife , oldest boy we flew Lao airlines vientiane to souel then bullet train to busan ,caught a ferry over to japan .had the japanese railpas organized in advance. Only spent a week bur what a week it was. I waz blown away
    Absolutely loved it. In 7 days arriving in Fukuoka by ferry, we crammed in a lot. Its even sparked an interest in my son learning japanese now hes in oz, i would go back in a heartbeat.

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    I think.i bunged a thread up Amongst the Kimchi eaters

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    If you go in winter a visit to Nagano Prefecture wouldn't go amiss. The old castle in Matsumoto is very photogenic in winter.

    8 Best Places To Visit In Japan In 2023: Explore The Land Of The Rising Sun-img_20200105_070727-jpg

    A visit to the art museum is also worth it just to witness the entertaining art of Matsumoto born Yayoi Kusuma.

    8 Best Places To Visit In Japan In 2023: Explore The Land Of The Rising Sun-img_20200105_145916-jpg

    8 Best Places To Visit In Japan In 2023: Explore The Land Of The Rising Sun-img_20200105_135016-jpg

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    Baseball … several professional teams and just as much fun as any MLB stadiums. The beer girls running all over the place with the beer kegs on their back is pretty cool sight to see. Visit a sumo tournament is also great fun and they have 6 tournaments a year.

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    Thailand Expat misskit's Avatar
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    Onsen is my favorite thing about Japan. Being in a hot outdoor spring naked is sublime.

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    Quote Originally Posted by misskit View Post
    I’ve not been to Okinawa but have a trip planned for September.

    I love Japan but not keen on living there.
    Looking forward to your travel thread on Okinawa later this year.

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    Quote Originally Posted by misskit View Post
    Onsen is my favorite thing about Japan. Being in a hot outdoor spring naked is sublime.
    Pics?

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    Thailand Expat misskit's Avatar
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    ^ HAHAHA. Bringing in a camera where everyone is running around naked is a big no no. Those polite, unclothed Japanese would turn nasty on you.

  23. #23
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    Quote Originally Posted by misskit View Post
    Onsen is my favorite thing about Japan. Being in a hot outdoor spring naked is sublime.
    Guessing you don’t have any tattoos?

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