If you’re planning a trip, choosing where to go can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the best cities in Japan to visit, covering a mix of iconic destinations and lesser-known gems.

Whether you’re looking for food, culture, history, or natural beauty, these cities will help you experience the very best of Japan.

Tokyo: A Dynamic and Diverse Metropolis

Tokyo, Japan’s capital, is a vast and energetic city where modern innovation meets deep-rooted tradition. From futuristic skylines to historic neighbourhoods, it offers an incredible range of experiences for every type of traveller.  

Start in Shibuya to experience the famous Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest pedestrian intersections in the world. From there, explore Harajuku’s colourful street culture and unique fashion scene.

For a more traditional side of Tokyo, head to Asakusa and visit Senso-ji Temple, the city’s oldest and most iconic temple. Nearby, Tokyo Skytree offers panoramic views across the sprawling city. Food lovers shouldn’t miss the Tsukiji Outer Market, where you can enjoy some of the freshest seafood in Japan.

Tokyo is a city that never feels repetitive—each district offers something completely different, making it an essential stop on any Japan itinerary.

Want to explore more?

Discover the best things to do in Tokyo, from iconic landmarks like Shibuya Crossing to hidden food spots and local experiences.

Kyoto: A Window to Japan’s Past

Kyoto is the cultural heart of Japan and the best place to experience the country’s traditional side. As the former imperial capital, it is home to countless temples, shrines, and preserved historic districts.  

Begin your visit in the Higashiyama District, where narrow streets, wooden buildings, and historic temples create a timeless atmosphere. Highlights include Kiyomizu-dera Temple and the nearby Gion district, where you may even spot a geisha.

No trip to Kyoto is complete without visiting Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of red torii gates. For a more peaceful setting, head to Arashiyama, where the bamboo grove and Tenryu-ji Temple offer a quieter, scenic escape.

Kyoto is ideal for travellers looking to slow down and connect with Japan’s history, culture, and seasonal beauty.

Want to explore more?

Discover Kyoto’s top temples, traditional districts, and cultural experiences in this complete travel guide.

Osaka: A Foodie’s Paradise

Osaka is known as Japan’s kitchen, and for good reason. The city is famous for its vibrant food scene, friendly locals, and lively atmosphere.  

Dotonbori is the heart of Osaka’s street food culture, where you can try local favourites like takoyaki and okonomiyaki while surrounded by bright neon lights and energetic crowds.

Beyond food, Osaka offers a mix of history and modern attractions. Osaka Castle provides a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past, while the Umeda Sky Building offers impressive views from its unique observation deck.

With its relaxed vibe and focus on food and entertainment, Osaka is one of the most enjoyable and approachable cities to visit in Japan.

Want to explore more?

Find the best things to do in Osaka, including street food, nightlife, and must-visit attractions.

Hiroshima: A City of Peace and Resilience

Hiroshima is a city that carries deep historical significance while offering a message of peace and hope.  

A visit to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is both powerful and educational. The Atomic Bomb Dome stands as a reminder of the past, while the Peace Memorial Museum provides important context and insight.

Just a short ferry ride away, Miyajima Island offers a completely different experience. Its iconic floating torii gate at Itsukushima Shrine is one of Japan’s most recognisable views. The island also features scenic walking trails, friendly deer, and local food stalls.

Today, Hiroshima is a welcoming and easy-going city, blending history, culture, and natural beauty.

Want to explore more?

Plan your visit to Hiroshima with this guide to the Peace Memorial Park, Miyajima Island, and local food.

Sapporo: Japan’s Northern Gem

Sapporo, the largest city in Hokkaido, is known for its seasonal beauty, open spaces, and excellent food.  

The city is most famous for the Sapporo Snow Festival, held each winter, where massive snow and ice sculptures transform the city into a winter wonderland. In warmer months, parks like Odori Park and Moerenuma Park offer relaxing green spaces to explore.

Sapporo is also a top destination for food lovers. Fresh seafood, rich miso ramen, and local beer are all highlights, with the Sapporo Beer Museum offering a deeper look into the city’s brewing history.

With its balance of nature, food, and seasonal events, Sapporo offers a completely different experience from Japan’s main island cities.

Want to explore more?

Explore Sapporo’s seasonal highlights, from the Snow Festival to summer parks and local food spots.

Nara: Japan’s Ancient Treasures

Nara is one of Japan’s oldest cities and is known for its rich history and cultural landmarks.  

The highlight of any visit is Nara Park, where hundreds of freely roaming deer have become a symbol of the city. Nearby, Todai-ji Temple houses one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in the world.

Nara’s compact layout makes it easy to explore on foot, and its relaxed atmosphere offers a quieter alternative to nearby Kyoto.

It’s a perfect destination for travellers interested in history, culture, and a slower pace of travel.

Want to explore more?

Discover Nara’s top attractions, including Nara Park, Todai-ji Temple, and its famous free-roaming deer.

Kanazawa: The Little Kyoto

Kanazawa is often referred to as “Little Kyoto” thanks to its well-preserved districts and strong cultural heritage.  

The city is home to Kenrokuen Garden, considered one of Japan’s most beautiful landscape gardens. The nearby Higashi Chaya District offers a glimpse into traditional geisha culture, with historic teahouses and narrow streets.

Kanazawa is also known for its fresh seafood and high-quality sushi, thanks to its location along the Sea of Japan.

Less crowded than Kyoto but equally rich in culture, Kanazawa is a great choice for travellers looking to explore somewhere slightly off the main tourist route.

Want to explore more?

Explore Kanazawa’s historic districts, beautiful gardens, and traditional culture in this detailed guide.

Nagoya: Japan’s fourth-largest city

Nagoya is a major city located between Tokyo and Osaka, making it an important transport and industrial centre.  

While often overlooked, Nagoya offers a mix of modern attractions and historical sites. Nagoya Castle is one of the city’s key landmarks, while the Toyota Commemorative Museum highlights Japan’s automotive innovation.

The city is also known for its unique local cuisine, including miso katsu and hitsumabushi (grilled eel).

With its convenient location and variety of attractions, Nagoya is a worthwhile stop when travelling along Japan’s main route.

Want to explore more?

Find the best things to do in Nagoya, from historic castles to unique local food and modern attractions.

Kobe: A Port of Culinary Delights

Kobe is a stylish port city known for its scenic setting between the sea and the mountains.  

Famous for its premium Kobe beef, the city also offers a mix of international influences, historic architecture, and relaxed waterfront areas. The Kitano district features Western-style houses from Kobe’s early days as an international port.

For great views, head up Mount Rokko, or enjoy the harbour area around Meriken Park. Kobe’s compact size makes it easy to explore in a day, while still offering plenty to see and do.

It’s a great addition to any Kansai itinerary, especially for food lovers.

Want to explore more?

Discover Kobe’s top attractions, including Kobe beef, harbour views, and scenic mountain spots.

Fukuoka: A Dynamic Coastal City

Fukuoka is a modern, fast-growing city on the island of Kyushu, known for its relaxed atmosphere and excellent food scene.  

The city is famous for its yatai (street food stalls), where you can enjoy local dishes like ramen in a casual and social setting. Fukuoka also offers easy access to beaches, parks, and nearby cultural sites.

With its mix of urban convenience and laid-back coastal vibes, Fukuoka is often considered one of Japan’s most liveable and visitor-friendly cities.

It’s an ideal destination for travellers looking to explore beyond the main tourist route. 

Want to explore more?

Plan your visit to Fukuoka with this guide to street food, coastal attractions, and local culture.

Start Planning Your Japan Trip

Japan’s cities are incredibly diverse, each offering a unique experience—from the fast-paced energy of Tokyo to the historic charm of Kyoto and the relaxed coastal vibe of Fukuoka.

By combining a few of these destinations, you can create a well-balanced itinerary that showcases the very best of Japan.

Take your time, explore beyond the obvious, and start planning a trip you’ll never forget.

Reserve Patina Osaka Today – Hotels.com

Spacious Rooms with Scenic Views

Patina Osaka features 221 rooms and suites, each designed to provide comfort and serenity. The Deluxe Rooms are notably spacious at 50 square metres, offering views of either Osaka Castle or the city skyline. These rooms accommodate up to three adults and two children, with options for king or twin beds, and a tatami daybed available for an additional fee. Amenities include floor-to-ceiling windows, a bathtub with a rain shower, a 55-inch smart TV, and complimentary non-alcoholic beverages in the minibar. 

For those seeking more space, the Junior Suites offer 75 square metres, while the Deluxe Suites provide 100 square metres of living area. These suites include separate living rooms and enhanced amenities.

Patina Osaka Room Rates

Room rates at Patina Osaka reflect its upscale positioning. As of June 2025, the Deluxe Rooms start at approximately ¥80,000 per night, including breakfast for two. Castle View Deluxe Rooms are slightly higher, starting around ¥85,000 per night. Junior Suites begin at ¥115,000 per night, and Deluxe Suites can reach up to ¥230,000 per night, depending on the view and inclusions. 

Dining Options

Patina Osaka offers a variety of dining experiences:

• P72: The hotel’s signature restaurant, P72, draws inspiration from Japan’s 72 micro-seasons, offering a menu that changes to reflect seasonal ingredients. The dining space features a striking 52-metre installation made from reclaimed wood.
• IÑAKI: Located on the 19th floor, IÑAKI is a Basque grill restaurant offering wood-fired dishes and panoramic views of Osaka Castle. The open kitchen adds a dynamic element to the dining experience.  
• BARIN: This intimate teppanyaki restaurant seats 10 at the counter and up to 16 in booths, featuring a gold-leaf mural depicting Osaka’s history. The menu includes premium ingredients like Kuroge wagyu and seasonal seafood.  
• Nijiri: A tea lounge offering afternoon tea with organic Japanese teas and local ingredients, served with views of Osaka Castle Park. The afternoon tea set includes a selection of savoury and sweet items, accompanied by a glass of champagne.  
• Sonata Bar & Lounge: A music-themed bar featuring cocktails inspired by Osaka’s 1970 World Expo, with a collection of over 6,000 vinyl records. The bar hosts weekly vinyl collector gatherings and offers a private room with a wall of vintage Japanese speakers.  

Wellness and Amenities

The Patina Wellness Centre occupies the entire fourth floor, offering a 1,400-square-metre space dedicated to health and relaxation. Facilities include a gym with high-end Technogym equipment, an indoor pool, sauna, steam room, and various therapies such as cryotherapy and hyperbaric oxygen treatments. 

Additional amenities include 24-hour in-room dining, a dedicated “Patina Essentialist” concierge service, and complimentary shuttle service to nearby train stations. 

Location

While situated in a quieter part of Osaka, Patina Osaka is within walking distance of Osaka Castle and a short subway ride from bustling areas like Dotonbori and Umeda. The hotel’s location offers a peaceful environment without sacrificing accessibility to the city’s attractions.

Images: PR Times

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What is Japan’s Golden Route?

The Golden Route covers Japan’s most famous attractions and provides a perfect mix of modern and traditional Japan. Typically, it includes Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Nara, and Osaka, and sometimes Hiroshima as an optional extension. Let’s take a closer look at how to travel this route and how many days you’ll need to make the most of it.

1. Tokyo (3-4 Days)

Highlights:

• Shibuya Crossing

• Asakusa & Sensō-ji Temple

• Meiji Shrine

• Tokyo Skytree

• Odaiba

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Travel Tip:

Tokyo is a sprawling city, so planning your days by area will help maximise your time. Public transport is extremely efficient, with the JR Yamanote Line circling most of the main districts, and the metro reaching nearly everywhere else. Consider a prepaid Suica or Pasmo card for easy access to trains and buses.

Recommended Days: 3-4 days, depending on whether you want to dive into the cultural aspects (temples, shrines, and museums) or explore modern districts like Akihabara and Shibuya.

2. Hakone (1-2 Days)

Highlights:

• Lake Ashi (views of Mount Fuji)

• Owakudani volcanic valley

• Hakone Open-Air Museum

• Onsen (Hot springs)

Travel Tip:

The Hakone Free Pass is a great value option, offering unlimited use of transportation in the area, including trains, buses, cable cars, and boats. If you’re coming from Tokyo, the Odakyu Romancecar offers a comfortable direct train ride to Hakone-Yumoto.

Recommended Days: 1-2 days. Stay in a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) for the full onsen experience and enjoy a slower-paced exploration of this scenic area.

3. Kyoto (3-4 Days)

Highlights:

• Fushimi Inari Shrine

• Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

• Gion District

• Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

• Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Travel Tip:

Kyoto’s buses and subways can be quite crowded, especially around popular tourist spots. The Kyoto City Bus & Subway Pass is useful if you plan to travel extensively by public transport. Another option is renting bicycles, which can be a fun way to get around and explore less crowded areas.

Recommended Days: 3-4 days. Kyoto is packed with historical and cultural sites, so make sure to allocate enough time to properly visit the most iconic spots without rushing.

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4. Nara (1 Day)

Highlights:

• Tōdai-ji Temple and the Giant Buddha

• Nara Park (with its friendly deer)

• Kasuga Taisha Shrine

Travel Tip:

Nara is just under an hour by train from Kyoto or Osaka. It’s ideal as a day trip, and you can easily explore the main attractions on foot. Most visitors combine Nara with Kyoto or Osaka in their itinerary.

Recommended Days: 1 day, making it a day trip from Kyoto or Osaka.

5. Osaka (2 Days)

Highlights:

• Dotonbori (street food and nightlife)

• Osaka Castle

• Umeda Sky Building

• Universal Studios Japan (optional)

Travel Tip:

Osaka is famous for its food, especially in the Dotonbori area. The city is also home to a large number of shopping districts. If you plan to visit Universal Studios Japan, it’s a good idea to allocate an entire day for it, as it can be a full-day experience.

Recommended Days: 2 days. Osaka is relatively compact and easy to navigate. You can spend one day exploring the city and another visiting Universal Studios or making a short trip to nearby areas like Kobe.

6. Optional: Hiroshima (1-2 Days)

Highlights:

• Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

• Atomic Bomb Dome

• Miyajima Island and Itsukushima Shrine

Travel Tip:

If you want to extend your trip beyond the main Golden Route, Hiroshima is well-connected via the Shinkansen (bullet train) from Osaka or Kyoto. You can reach Hiroshima in about two hours by train.

Recommended Days: 1-2 days. Spend one day in Hiroshima city, then take a side trip to Miyajima Island.

How to Travel Along the Golden Route

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Japan’s Golden Route is well-served by the extensive rail network, particularly the Shinkansen (bullet train). The JR Pass, available only to foreign visitors, offers unlimited travel on most JR trains, including the Shinkansen. Here’s a quick guide on how to travel between the main destinations:

• Tokyo to Hakone: About 1.5 hours via the Odakyu Line from Shinjuku Station to Hakone-Yumoto.

• Hakone to Kyoto: About 2 hours by Shinkansen from Odawara Station.

• Kyoto to Osaka: About 15 minutes by Shinkansen or local train.

• Osaka to Nara: About 45 minutes by local train.

• Osaka to Hiroshima: About 2 hours by Shinkansen.

Recommended Total Days for the Golden Route: 8-12 days, depending on your pace and whether you include optional side trips like Hiroshima or more time in Osaka and Kyoto.

Travelling Beyond the Golden Route: More Time and Deeper Experiences

While the Golden Route offers a convenient and accessible way to explore Japan, venturing beyond these well-travelled cities will require more time and a bit more planning. Many of the alternative regions, such as the Tohoku region, Kyushu, or Hokkaido, are more spread out and less accessible by bullet train. For example, exploring the serene mountain towns of Shikoku or hiking in the wilderness of Hokkaido will need extra travel days and a willingness to slow down and soak in the atmosphere.

• Tohoku: A trip to this northern region could easily take an additional 5-7 days, especially if you wish to visit Lake Towada, Aomori, and Hiraizumi.

• Shikoku: The Shikoku pilgrimage route and the remote Iya Valley could add another 4-6 days to your itinerary.

• Kyushu: You’ll want at least 5 days to explore Kyushu’s diverse cities, volcanoes, and hot springs.

• Hokkaido: For nature lovers, Hokkaido could be a standalone trip of 7-10 days, particularly in the summer when its flower fields are in full bloom or in the winter for its famous ski resorts.

These regions offer unique cultural experiences, untouched natural beauty, and a slower pace, but they do demand more time and effort to explore fully. Travellers who push beyond the Golden Route will find rewards in discovering a Japan that few tourists experience—a land of hidden temples, remote hot springs, and untouched landscapes far from the urban centres.

Conclusion: The Golden Route and the Path Less Travelled

The Golden Route offers a fantastic introduction to Japan for first-time visitors, hitting all the major highlights in a short amount of time. With efficient public transportation and plenty of attractions, it’s a perfect fit for those with a limited time frame. However, for those seeking a more immersive experience, Japan’s less-explored regions offer their own treasures. From the tranquil beauty of Tohoku to the rugged landscapes of Hokkaido and the cultural richness of Shikoku, there’s a wealth of adventures beyond the Golden Route waiting to be discovered.

Whether you choose to stick to the Golden Route or extend your travels into the less-known corners of Japan, the country offers something for every traveller—no matter where you roam.

Day 1-3: Osaka – The Sumo Kickoff

Accommodation: Choose the InterContinental Osaka or the Swissotel Nankai Osaka for their exceptional service and proximity to Edion Arena Osaka, the sumo tournament venue.

Experience the Sumo Tournament: The Grand Sumo Tournament in Osaka is a cultural phenomenon, showcasing the power, technique, and tradition of Japan’s national sport. Attend the early matches to witness the rising stars and the intense competition. The atmosphere is electric, with fans cheering on their favourite wrestlers.

Himeji Day Trip: Time your trip right to experience Himeji Castle in full bloom. As one of Japan’s original 12 castles and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Himeji Castle is a sight to behold, especially during the cherry blossom season. The castle grounds are home to hundreds of cherry trees, offering a breathtaking backdrop of pink blooms against the stunning white architecture of the castle.

Explore Osaka: Known as Japan’s kitchen, Osaka is famed for its vibrant food scene. Dotonbori is a must-visit for food enthusiasts, with its dazzling array of street food and neon lights. Osaka Castle, set in a sprawling park, will be surrounded by the early stages of cherry blossoms, making it a picturesque spot for hanami (flower viewing), especially towards the end of the sumo tournament as blossoms are expected to start flowering around March 25, reaching full bloom by April 2.

Day 4-6: Kyoto – A Cultural Tapestry Amidst Sakura

Accommodation: Immerse yourself in Japanese tradition by staying in a ryokan in Gion or Higashiyama, such as Ishibekoji Muan or Hyatt Regency Kyoto.

Cherry Blossoms in Kyoto: Kyoto’s historical sites provide a stunning backdrop for cherry blossom viewing. The Philosopher’s Path, a stone walkway lined with hundreds of cherry trees, will be an ideal spot for contemplation and enjoyment of the fleeting beauty of sakura, with expected flowering from March 24 and full bloom by April 1. Maruyama Park, with its weeping cherry trees, becomes a popular gathering place for hanami parties.

Cultural Exploration: Visit the golden pavilion of Kinkaku-ji, shimmering in the reflection of its surrounding pond, and the zen garden of Ryoan-ji, offering a peaceful retreat. The historic streets of Gion, Kyoto’s geisha district, are especially enchanting in the evening, with the possibility of spotting a geisha on her way to an engagement. To find some gorgeous restaurants in the area, head over to byFood to make reservations.

Day 7-10: Tokyo and Surroundings – Modernity Meets Tradition

Accommodation: Stay in the heart of Tokyo at the Park Hotel Tokyo or Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo, both of which offer easy access to the city’s prime cherry blossom spots and attractions.

Tokyo’s Cherry Blossoms: Ueno Park is a premier location for cherry blossom viewing in Tokyo, with over a thousand trees blooming in unison. The forecast predicts the start of flowering around March 23, with full bloom expected around March 30. The Sumida River, lined with cherry trees, offers a spectacular view, especially from a boat cruise. The Chidorigafuchi area near the Imperial Palace provides a picturesque setting for a leisurely stroll under the blossoms.

Cultural Highlights and Day Trips: Asakusa’s Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest, is a vibrant hub of activity and tradition. A day trip to Kamakura brings you face to face with the Great Buddha and the serene Hase-dera Temple, both surrounded by beautiful cherry blossoms.

Final Day in Tokyo: Dedicate your last day to exploring areas like Shibuya and Harajuku for a taste of Tokyo’s dynamic youth culture, or opt for a more relaxed pace with a visit to the serene Meiji Shrine, enveloped by a forest in the heart of the city.

Travel Tips for an Unforgettable Journey

• Cherry Blossom Forecast: Keep an eye on cherry blossom forecasts as the season approaches. The peak bloom can vary slightly from year to year, so flexibility in your travel plans can enhance your viewing experience. This year, the blossoms are expected to bloom slightly earlier in some regions, so plan accordingly.
• Sumo Tickets: Purchase your sumo tickets well in advance to secure your spot at this popular event. Consider attending morning matches to see a wider array of wrestlers and bouts.
• Transportation: Utilise the shinkansen for convenient travel between cities, and explore other local transportation passes.
• Local Etiquette: Respect local customs, especially when participating in hanami. Clean up after yourself and avoid obstructing paths and views for others.

This comprehensive guide to Japan in spring combines the thrill of sumo wrestling with the ethereal beauty of cherry blossoms, set against the backdrop of Japan’s most iconic cities. From the vibrant streets of Osaka to the serene temples of Kyoto and the bustling metropolis of Tokyo, this itinerary offers a journey through the heart of Japanese culture and nature’s splendour.

In This Post:

Osaka, Japan’s third-largest city and a bustling metropolis known for its vibrant culinary scene, rich history, and warm, friendly locals. With its lively neighbourhoods, captivating attractions, and modern entertainment districts, it is a city that never ceases to amaze. Make Osaka a must-visit destination on your Japanese adventure. Let’s dive in and explore the energetic and fascinating city of Osaka.

Iconic Attractions

Osaka Castle: Immerse yourself in Japan’s rich history by visiting this iconic castle, a symbol of the city’s enduring spirit. Explore the castle’s impressive grounds, marvel at its architecture, and learn about Japan’s tumultuous past at the on-site museum.

Dotonbori: Experience the energy and excitement of Osaka’s nightlife in the bustling Dotonbori district. Admire the iconic Glico Running Man sign, sample delicious street food, and shop till you drop at the numerous stores lining the neon-lit streets.

Cultural Discoveries

Shitennoji Temple: As Japan’s first officially established Buddhist temple, Shitennoji Temple holds a special place in the country’s history. Explore the serene temple grounds, admire the five-story pagoda, and soak up the peaceful atmosphere of this sacred site.

Sumiyoshi Taisha: One of Japan’s oldest Shinto shrines, Sumiyoshi Taisha is a stunning example of traditional architecture. Take a leisurely stroll through the tranquil shrine grounds, and don’t forget to cross the distinctive arched Taiko Bridge.

Gastronomic Experiences

Modern Entertainment and Shopping

Umeda Sky Building: Take in panoramic views of Osaka’s sprawling cityscape from the Floating Garden Observatory at the Umeda Sky Building. This architectural marvel features two towers connected by a rooftop garden, offering a breathtaking vantage point.

Shinsaibashi: Satisfy your shopping cravings at Shinsaibashi, Osaka’s premier shopping district. From high-end boutiques to trendy streetwear stores, Shinsaibashi has something for every style and budget.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

Cup Noodle Museum: Unleash your creativity at the Cup Noodle Museum, where you can design your own instant ramen cup and learn about the fascinating history of this popular Japanese invention.

Spa World: Relax and rejuvenate at Spa World, an expansive complex offering a variety of themed hot spring baths and saunas inspired by different cultures from around the world.

Embark on Your Osaka Adventure

Osaka is a city that thrives on its dynamic energy, warm hospitality, and incredible culinary scene. From iconic attractions and cultural landmarks to bustling markets and lively entertainment districts, Osaka offers a diverse and engaging experience for everyone. Use this guide to uncover the many layers of this captivating metropolis and create lasting memories on your unforgettable Osaka adventure.