Japan has over 3000 landmarks and sometimes you may have difficulties choosing which landmark to visit. Whether historical, modern or cultural aspect you wouldn’t lack any of this in Japan. In fact, there are many amazing tourist attractions, some of which are on the list of UNESCO World Heritage. If you are hesitating on which landmark to visit first, we have made a selection of the famous landmarks you ought to visit in Japan here. While continuing reading, start thinking about other attractive sites like Tokyo, and Kyoto that you would like to visit in this land of the rising sun.
10 Famous Landmarks in Japan you need to visit in Japan
Himeji Castle
Himeji castle is the Japanese most famous castle and one of the surviving examples of feudal Edo architecture. It’s sometimes known as White Heron Castle due to its sumptuous white appearance. Himeji castle is one of Japan’s famous heritage sites as well as landmarks.
Mount Fuji
This is another UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2013. Mount Fuji. Mount Fuji is the highest volcano in all of Japan with an impressive view from afar. This landmark is located northeast of Shimizu.
Tokyo Skytree
This is another one of the most amazing landmarks in Japan with 634 meters. Tokyo sky tree is the second tallest structure in the world and one of the most famous Japanese landmarks. This tower includes more than 300 shops and restaurants, an aquarium and a planetarium. In addition, it’s home to a theme park dedicated to the manga and anime of ‘One Piece’, with games and shows.
Itsukushima Shrine, Miyajima
Itsukushima Shrine is another famous landmark you need to visit located on the island of Miyajima. Anybody can access it by way of a ferry from the mainland. Itsukushima Shrine appears to be “floating” over the water and features a “floating” Torii gate. One can either approach the gate on foot during low tide or by way of a rented sea kayak during high tide.
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is one of the most famous Japanese landmarks. Japanese myths and legends state that the forest was planted to protect surrounding temples like the Tenryu-ji Temple. The green grass there is believed to be a symbol of strength.
Fushimi Inari Taisha
Fushimi Inari Taisha is an important shrine dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice. It originated in the 8th century. Everyone is welcome to make offerings to the gods plus there is no entering fee. The main attractions are the torii gates which crisscross the woods behind the temple. Most of these torii gates were donated by individuals and companies.
Dontonbori
This is a lightly illuminated place in Osaka filled with restaurants and bars. Dotonbori is one of the best places in Osaka to experience kuidaore, which means “eat till you drop”. Or at least until you are in shortage of many. This is why when planning to come here make sure to have a good budget if you want to impress your boy or girl.
Kinkaku-ji: The Golden Pavilion
Another one of the impressive landmarks is the great Kinkaku-ji. Kinkaku-ji, is a Zen temple in northern Kyoto. This temple is designated as a National Special Historic Site and a World Heritage Site. Its name the golden pavilion is due to the floors being completely covered in glittering gold leaf. A path around the pond garden of this temple offers visitors a great view to take pictures.
Shibuya Crossing
This four-way crossing is one of the most famous places in Japan that you should definitely visit someday. Shibuya crossing is one of the busiest intersections in the world, with over 250,000 people accessing it each day. It’s one of Japan’s modern landmarks along with Dontonbori.
Roppongi Hills
It’s sometimes referred to as a city within another city. Roppongi Hills is located in the centre of Roppongi in Tokyo. When visiting, you will discover a vast range of shops, including clothing and jewellery stores, gift shops, and decor shops. Roppongi Hills attracts many visitors each year and one of the main attractions is the Mori Art Museum which features a range of contemporary art exhibits.
I hope you will be able to book a trip to Japan as soon as possible and get the best experience whenever visiting some of these selected landmarks in Japan for you.
If you are interested in other landmarks like the ones in New York City, feel free to follow our guide.
Top attractions to visit in the land of the rising sun
- Osaka tourist attractions
- Tokyo top sights
- Himeji top sights
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