With original flattened by the A-bomb, this is a modest reconstruction but it offers great views of the city from the top floor, a museum, a nice garden and 3 trees that miraculously escaped the bombing.
This understated, exquisite architectural masterpiece is one not to miss (make sure you find it). It offers an artistic beauty and depth you wouldn’t expect to find amongst the memorials of Hiroshima and provides a gravitas and level of respect true to the Japanese spirit.
Miyajima, near Hiroshima, is worth spending at least a day and night and with a history spanning 160 years, Iwaso Ryokan is the best place to do so. Nestled between Itsukushima Shrine and Momijidani Park, its easy to soak up the tranquil atmosphere of the area.
Miyajima is a small island in Hiroshima Bay known for its forests, temples and giant orange Grand Torii Gate that is partially submerged at high tide. Considered the most spectacular way to view the gate, treat yourself to a night cruise with the gate all lit up.
The Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art, sitting atop Hijiyama Park above the city, is the first in Japan devoted exclusively to contemporary art. While the building itself is bold and brilliant, it can be hit and miss depending on exhibitions and personal preference.
The name Hiroshima can send a chill down your spine and the Peace Memorial Museum is not for the faint-hearted but the Peace Park is simply lovely and once you’ve been there (and met the locals) it will invoke nothing but positive vibes and an eagerness to return.
Created in 1620, these gardens are a wonderful way to wind down in nature. If you’re lucky enough to time your visit with one of their regular tea ceremonies, its highly recommended as the gardens were designed by a renowned tea master.
If you’re a DIY type of traveller who likes to explore on foot, Hiroshima is fairly compact and flat and easy to walk around (or tram around), which is the best way to interact with the friendly residents who seem the very embodiment of peace and positivity.
This magnificent architectural attraction is worth a visit when in Iiyama, if even to sit in the lobby admiring the space. Its a first-class community centre with auditoriums, event spaces, music studio and regular events and performances.
Founded in 1559 and rebuilt in 1733 after fire, this temple has a long family history demonstrated by its cemetery holding generations of feudal lord families. But it is the dragon artwork on the roof that draws people in, craning their necks for a golden glimpse.
Yes! Tokyo definitely has great quality, great tasting, bona fide espresso coffee. In fact they're getting so hipster-craft-cult about it that Japan placed 2nd in the 2016 World Barista Championships. Click on the Tokyo Coffee title above for details of our Top 10 coffee spots in Tokyo.
Daijoji is a 700-year-old monastery nestled in the forested hills of Kanazawa and, while a little far from the city centre, its worth visiting to either enjoy the tranquillity or even participate in their Sunday meditation with the 20+ monks who live there.
One of the highlights of Kanazawa are the 3 gorgeous Chaya districts (geisha tea-house areas) - Higashi, Nishi and Kazuemachi. Its well worth treating yourself at either Shima or Kaikaro tea-houses in the Higashi district or, if low on time, at least enjoy a famous gold leaf ice cream.
Built in 1643 to help protect Kanazawa Castle, Myoryuji is known as a Ninja Temple, due to a host of deceptive devices, illusions, traps, secret passages and hidden stairs. Reservations are recommended but English is rare so ask at your hotel or tourist information centre.
Founded in 717 by a Buddhist monk, the extensive grounds feature multiple buildings, a pond garden, observation deck, hand-cut meditation caves and steps carved into the cliffside. In winter snow, this secluded temple can seem like a dream.
Dating from 1666, Ohi Pottery has been made by just one family in Kanazawa for over 350 years. The gallery is housed in their old family residence and features gorgeous artworks, crafted by hand. You can select an original tea bowl when enjoying a green tea cuppa in the connecting café.
Located in the corner of Kenrokuen Garden, this elegant villa, designated an Important National Cultural Asset, was built by a feudal lord for his mother. It features large tatami rooms, ceilings decorated with scenes of family life and a lovely collection of personal artefacts.
If you go to Osaka, you go to Dotonbori, like moths to a neon-coloured flame. This is the heart of eating, in the whole world really. You can go for the famous Kani Doraku crab or Zuboraya and Kinryu Ramen but there is a world of fabulous fare from street food to the finest fugu. Yum.
This mind-blowing aquarium has 15 tanks, each representing a specific region of the Pacific Rim. The central tank, representing the Pacific Ocean, is 9m deep and home to a gazillion fish and whale sharks, mesmerising visitors as they spiral down from the 8th floor to the ground.
We don't love the idea of putting Whale Sharks in a tank but here are the details in case you want to protest or marvel at them.
This incredible ‘museum’ is dedicated to education through play and wonder over 5 floors of science, media, playgrounds, art, a library, role playing and creativity. To top it off, the fab Ogimachi Park playground is just behind the museum. Cheap awesome kiddie fun day SORTED.
The Momofuku Ando Instant Ramen Museum is a savoury treat! It celebrates the invention and phenomenon of this cheap eat with various attractions, exhibitions and (of course) a tasting room. And yes, you will learn the connection to the famed Momofuku restaurants.
Located on the top floors of a city building, this hidden gem is a detailed recreation of Osaka from the Edo period where you can don a kimono and wander the streets, checking out houses, shops and other wonderful features – both at night and day as the (artificial) lights change.
One of Osaka’s famous landmarks, this castle is all white walls, glittering gold leaf, high stone walls, sprawling grounds, massive moats and grand gates. Like many castles, it has a chequered past but was restored to its former glory in the late 90s.
This express viewing train will whisk you through the countryside from the bright lights of Shinjuku to the rural escape of the Fuji-Hakone region. On clear days, the majestic Mt. Fuji will also be in your sights, particularly in an observation deck seat in the front or back car.
Ranked the area’s top attraction on TripAdvisor, the indoor museum includes a 300-piece Picasso collection and the outdoor sculpture garden has over 100 contemporary works in a unique mix of nature and art, stretching over 70,000 square-meters.
If you’re low of time, big on bullet trains, love culture and want at least a glimpse of Mt Fuji, a day tour from Tokyo to Kyoto and back is possible – although a multi-day trip is recommended to explore this sensational city.
This contemporary art museum hosts some astounding exhibitions in a sleek and serene atmosphere. In addition to the beautiful space, there is a lovely light and bright café and the forest surrounds add that touch of natural magic.
While Hakone is known for its Mt. Fuji sightseeing spots, it is equally famous in Japan for its quality hot spring onsens. Staying overnight in a ryokan onsen is the ultimate weekend away for most Tokyoites. Head here for Hakone’s 10 most relaxing onsens.
If soaking in red wine, green tea, sake or coffee is your thing, you’ll love this hot spring theme park. With areas for both adults and kids, it can make for a kooky fantasy fun day, especially if the weather isn’t great.
This theme museum was created to celebrate the 100th birthday of The Little Prince author Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. It features a French-façade streetscape, European gardens, little church, exhibition hall and restaurant - all set in Hakone's natural environment.
As the most iconic landmark in Japan, a solid viewing of Mt Fuji can become an obsession for some. And rightly so. Even from a distance there is something almost mystical about this magnificent mountain.
It’s not often a train station is an attraction in itself but this one is architecturally stunning, has fabulous shops, great food, facilities and hints at the wonderful time you’re going to have in this lovely city.
Established in the Edo period and developed over 2 centuries, Kenrokuen is rated as one of the top 3 gardens in Japan. For a couple of weeks in Jan and Feb it comes alive when the giant rope structures protecting the trees are illuminated.
One of thousands of Shinto shrines dedicated to Inari, the god of rice, it is famous for the glaring torii gates, mountain trails and general greatness. Its simply a must-see in Kyoto.
Boring name but for those after gifts with a bit of class to take home, inside is a treasure trove for things like woodblock prints, yukata (cotton robes), pottery and jewellery.
This gorgeous, cheap, wonderful, quirky place is perfect for those who tire of regular museums. Make sure you stay a while as every hour the owners flick the switch and light the place up in a veritable kaleidoscope of colour.
Considered by locals and visitors alike to be the most classically picturesque Japanese street in the city, Pontocho is a narrow alley filled with all manner of dining delights from street food to 5-star fare.
This amusement park sits at the foot of Mt Fuji and boasts over 40 attractions from thrilling roller coasters (boasting 4 world records), to horror rides, anime world, Fuji viewing spots, food, a resort hotel and a lovely onsen.
The world of the Geisha is mysterious, fascinating and romantic. In Kyoto, it is centred around the Gion district which is particularly enchanting at night. You can also do a tour that enriches the geisha experience Gion Tour
This is more like an underground shopping centre than a street. If you need to haul home a bunch of Hello Kitty or Pokémon gifts, this is the place to be.
Cat cafes are so last year. Head to Ra.a.g.f. to enjoy petting these softest and sweetest of cuddly bunnies. Or google Harry Hedgehog Café. Because MAX CUTENESS.
Treat or torment your traveling companions with Karaoke! The Japanese are always willing participants so if you meet any on your travels ask them to take you to their favourite haunt and get ready for a cultural sing-off!
This enormous Star Wars-like museum focuses on what life would have been like for Tokyoites during the Edo period and it is legitimately wonderful. Located next to the Sumo stadium and nearby Tokyo Skytree, it makes for a great triple-bill day.
Kiyomizudera is one of Kyoto’s (and Japan’s) finest temples with breathtaking views and multiple features. However, the main hall is covered for roof renos until March 2020 so it may be a good time to visit any of the other 1600+ temples in Kyoto (see here).
This stunningly photogenic bamboo grove transports you to another time and place. Its tranquillity embodies the spirit of Japan and is particularly hypnotising in a breeze when the bamboo sways
A unique hands-on training dojo that teaches ninja techniques, handed down over 500 years. Includes a gorgeous shop with ninja antiques, kimonos and instant photos if you want to dress up.
Tokyo has a vibrant contemporary art community featuring cutting-edge offerings from local and international artists. Click the link for 10 of Tokyo’s top galleries and museums.
Scattered over the vibrant cityscape – from fetish basements to renovated bathhouses – these are the best of Tokyo’s alternative galleries and spaces worth taking a trip to Japan for.
Immerse yourself in Japanese Samurai culture. Battle with swords and see ancient Samurai artefacts and costumes. If you're not careful you may come away with your own Samurai Sword from the gift shop.
A school for exploring the traditional arts of Batto (Samurai Sword), Waso (Kimono Dressing), Shodo (Japanese Calligraphy) or Sado (Tea Ceremony). They welcome overseas visitors for day 'experiences' in one or all arts.
One of the most beautiful gardens in Japan. If you love some fancy foliage, this has to be on the itinerary. It is beautiful in every season and features 2 lovely tearooms to really get in the zen spirit.
Get the lowdown on the best shops in Tokyo. This top 100 list covers off everything from big brand bucket list stuff to secret hot spots hidden at the back of the 7th floor in that place you would NEVER find on your own.
Tokyo is a meca for cutting-edge design, fashion and indie shops. Head to Shibuya and Harajuku for the pick but look out for new hot spots such as Nakameguro, Kōenji, Shimokitazawa and Daikanyama.
Day or night, get up high in the sky(tree), the tallest structure in Japan, for a magnificent birds-eye view of Tokyo. If you pick the right day you’ll see the grand Mount Fuji and bring your passport if you want to skip the queues on a Fast pass.
The quality of Iiyama’s rice and pristine waters make local sake offerings “more delicious by the glass”, as promised by 6th-generation brewery president Ryuta Tanaka. Tour local breweries and taste for yourself!
While not on the grand scale of Sapporo's Ice Festival, this local cultural treat in February still offers ice sculptures, food, processions, music, games, performances, shopping and a snow-load of Japanese charm.
If you’re looking for some off-mountain activity, hop on a fat bike in Iiyama! Cruise in the snow along the Chikuma River (Japan’s longest), around Castle Ruins Park, or wherever your fat wheels take you...
Step back in time along the Temple Promenade as you visit Iiyama’s 20+ temples and shrines. It’s a fascinating experience for those exploring Japan’s Shinto and Buddhist origins, or those just out for a zen cruise.
Join the monks of Jofukuji Temple for Buddhist meditation, a perfect antidote to the fast paced life of the city and non-stop mountain action.
Learn copper engraving under the steady instruction of one of Iiyama City's master craftsmen.
Shibu Onsen and Yudanaka Onsen are the gorgeous spa towns close to the Snow Monkeys. Enjoy cobbled streets, traditional ryokans, Japanese couples dressed in traditional finery and of course a soak in the glorious, healing waters of the local onsens.
Be immersed in this serene little museum of life-like dolls, representing rural life in Japan. Famed local artist Mayumi Takahashi captures human poses, expressions, gestures and scenes with incredible grace. Enjoy tea and cake in the lovely café afterwards.
This is just a teaser. It’s impossible to get to this magnificent mountain onsen in the winter. If you do find a way, you’ll never want to leave. Surrounded by bamboo forests and frozen waterfalls, there's nothing quite like this anywhere in the world.
Visit Tokyo’s oldest, most colourful and popular temple. Enter through the ‘Thunder Gate’, stroll down a centuries-old shopping street before entering the grand Buddhist masterpiece. It’s nearby the Tokyo Skytree, Edo-Tokyo Museum and Sumo area if you want to make a day of it
Who cares if you only use it for a day. Get your Yamaha snowmobile licence. It’s damned fun and looks great on any resume.
Madarao has some of the most spectacular fall line backcountry in Japan. With short hikes and perfect snow this is a must do for advanced skiers and boarders who want a safely guided experience of a lifetime, offered by born and bred “Mr Madarao” himself, Aki Kitamura
The 700-year-old Nishiki Market is an ambush of culinary delights ranging from Kyoto’s top tofu to boiled quail egg in a baby octupus brain cavity (I know, yum). Its also home to Aritsugu knife shop – a masterchef’s dream shop.
Tokyo's famous animation museum featuring the incredible work of Miyazaki's Studio Ghibli. A work of art in itself, the museum is west from central Tokyo and requires tickets to be booked in advance. Head here or try here or here with JTB Australia to make sure you don't miss out.
If you have a fashion obsession and a wad of yen, why not support the local economy and check out the top Japanese clothing brands making fashion waves throughout the world.
Get away from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo and enter the peaceful grounds of the Meiji Jingu Shrine. Dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his consort, Empress Shoken, this is one of the most serene places to while away an afternoon.
Maguse Onsen is considered to be one of the best onsens in Japan. Soak in the hot healing waters of Maguse onsen while you gaze down the serene valley. This onsen is the embodiment of Japanese zen.
The relaxation attained from soaking in an onsen (natural hot spring) is like nothing else. Spend the day on the ski hill and the afternoons soaking weary bones. Madarao No Yu is the real Japan. Open 10am-9pm except for Tuesdays. You can have delicious meals there as well from 11:30am to 8pm.
It doesn't happen often but when it does, make sure you’re part of Togari Onsen’s Downhill Bike night ride. Book ahead for this popular out there activity.
The wonderful Jigokudani snow monkeys are a sight to behold. The famous monkeys have been warming themselves in volcanic hot springs for centuries and seeing them is one of the best experiences in the country. It makes for an easy, fantastic half day trip from Madarao.
The A-Bomb Dome (Genbaku Dōmu) is a reminder of a horrific past but, when there, you can really feel it as it is intended to be - a call to peace and symbol of hope. The building itself is awesome in the most confronting way - you may find yourself drawn to it over and over.
Japan’s regions are generally food-famous for one speciality or another and it's a treat to discover that oysters, okonomiyaki, sake and sweet maple sponge cake are at the top of the list at Hiroshima. Head here for one great guide to local dining delights.
While regularly beset by fire with many rebuilds over the centuries (though not the main castle), Kanazawa Castle Park is lovely to stroll around on your way to Kenrokuen Garden. Only the turret interiors are open (for a small fee) but feature gorgeous carpentry.
This beautifully restored historic home is in Nagamachi, with its canals and cobbled streets, the area where Kanazawa’s samurai lived with their families. The house has a lovely serene atmosphere, some great antique artefacts and a gorgeous inner garden.
Designated a UNESCO world heritage site in 1994, Nijo Castle (Nijojo) is one of the greatest surviving examples of castle palace architecture from the Shogun feudal era. If you happen to be there from late Feb to early March you may also catch the gorgeous plum blossoms.
In the 70s, some hip locals opened warehouse shops stocked with vintage goods, records and paraphernalia sourced from west coast USA. It become known as Amerika-mura (or Ame-mura) and has developed into a mecca of unique fashion, bars and cafes. THE place to people watch in Japan.
Gain rare access to Sumo Stables to watch the Sumo in training. While you won’t get the pomp and ceremony of the grand tournaments, this is a gritty, authentic, unique experience that shouldn’t be missed
Kabuki is an ancient cultural tradition of over-the-top dance drama theatre. If you don’t have the time (or patience) for a full performance, arrive 60-90 mins before a show to snap up a one-act ticket (and a translation device). Cheap, quick, great for kids. And awesome.
Whether you’re into smoky jazz, hard rock or J-pop, Tokyo dishes up a mega mix of music to satiate the gabillions of people in this music-mad metropolis. Check the local rag from Disk Union music stores for gigs or hit the link to 55 of Tokyo's best music spots.
Tokyo is famous for is shopping 'districts'. Obviously the 'ski' district is the best but basically if you can think of a genre you will find a city block or 2 dedicated to it... antiques, kimono, electronics, golf, toys, kitchenware, etc etc etc...
This is simply one of best ground-shaking, chest-pounding, culturally-astounding experiences in Japan. Book tickets well in advance to the Grand Tournament in Tokyo in Jan (or Osaka in March) or special events such as the Retirement ceremony in Feb. Great for the whole family, especially in a box seat (yes, it's totally worth it).
Immerse yourself in the geisha world of art and ambiguity. For the first time in history, a Westerner was accepted as a geisha and, as an expert social anthropologist, is helping open the doors to this ancient culture. Join Sayuki and her geisha sisters for a traditional dinner in Tokyo (bookings essential via the Contact form).
Another great place to get away from the hubbub of Tokyo. The inner grounds are only open twice a year (23 Dec, 2 Jan) but you can take a tour or gaze upon the greatness from a distance (including visiting the palace East Gardens).
As the light changes, join 2,500-odd people crossing the road at the same time. It can be even more fun when its raining when heads are down and umbrellas join the mix. Ultimate Japanese mind-blowing madness.
Immerse yourself in the delectable delights of Tokyo, ranging from sweet treats to top Shibuya sushi to “real” residential food and traditional yokocho and izakaya experiences. Yum.
This is basically every child of the 80's dream come true. "Race" go karts through the mean streets of Tokyo, Kyoto or Osaka dressed as your favourite Mario character. Yoshi is the best! Go Yoshi!!!
This colour-crazy kiddie paradise features Miniland (a small lego version of Tokyo), games, factory tour, café, lego building, shop and a 4D cinema (you know, moving seats, wind blowing in your face, that kind of wacky thing).
The title says it all. Peruse and buy stunning examples of restored authentic Samurai armour and artefacts. With an international reputation, expect to see avid samurai dealers, collectors and investors in the store.
A very brash, loud, intense Japanese version of pokies. Gambling in Japan is illegal so you win Pachinko balls, trade them for a prize then trade the prize for cash. And the industry rakes in about 200 BILLION dollars (20 trillion yen) every year.
Immerse yourself in Japan's One Piece world, located at Tokyo Tower. For die hard manga fans it is totally epic! If you don't know One Piece, you may still enjoy checking out the ultimate in classic kid-teen manga culture.
Welcome to Japan’s version of every kid’s dream – Tokyo Disneyland! DisneySea is the pick of the 2 resorts (right next door to Disney Resort) and if you’re heading on the weekend or on a public holiday check out the fantastic Starlight Passport for entry at 3pm and embrace the dream and the madness as the lights go down.
Along with supplying many of the city’s restaurants with the freshest meat, ocean-fresh seafood, fruit and veggies, the majority of vendors at Kuromon Ichiba cook their wares for the general public – from grilled oysters, to toro (fatty tuna) to Kobe beef.
This pair of towering skyscrapers, connected by a ‘floating garden observatory’, offer great views of the city through its windows and open-air deck. Lower floors offer the obligatory shops, cafés and even a restaurant floor replicating a town of the early Showa Period.
Osaka is a magnificent melting pot of food offerings. In fact, it has been known as “The Kitchen of the Nation” for centuries. Its hard to know where to start but this list is a pretty good start. Besides that, just embrace one of the joys of travel – random culinary discovery!
Established in 1356, this charming, secluded Zen Buddhist temple features over 500 buddha statues scattered throughout the surrounding woods. For those who love to get off the beaten path and into nature, Choanji is for you.
While it's a whirlwind tour, its absolutely possible to enjoy a day trip to the Mt Fuji and Hakone region. Head here or here for some options and here to purchase the Hakone Freepass for easy travel in the area.
Ever wonder how the Japanese make soba? You can learn this centuries-old culinary craft by attending a special workshop known as Soba-Uchi right in the heart of Madarao.
Your sensei Ogawa san owner of Tokyos famous Maroudo Soba. You will learn the craft from Ogawa sensei or his son who is a master in his own right.
Madarao has some stunning pristine wilderness and there is no better way to see it than snowshoeing through the forest. The winters are quiet and serene and if you get lucky you may see the elusive Kamoshika (a kind of goat-antelope!).
Made from snow-bleached mulberry bark, Uchiyama Washi is famous for its quality, strength and beauty. Under the guidance of local artisans, create your own handmade paper artwork - or just purchase from the professionals.
You will find the gorgeous work of Uchiyama paper in Snowball Chalet and Snowman Apartments.
The Kamakura (snow Igloo) Festival boasts a fairytale atmosphere under the stars. Book early to share a delicious noroshinabe (hot pot) with your friends and family, in your own lantern-illuminated snow hut.
Visiting the famous Onsen town of Nozawa Onsen is a must do activity, whether it be for a soak in 1 of the 13 free public Onsen’s, a stroll through the timeless streets, or a stop in at the many temples and shrines. It's a lovely town that is really worth seeing. Don't forget to try the steamed apple dumplings while you are there.
Not just a shop… an experience. Wonder at the exquisite paper artworks by the shop owner’s wife, chat to her husband as he slowly makes his way around the store, then spend a pretty penny on a pile of perfect, priceless handmade paper.
