If you're planning a trip to Japan, you're in for an amazing experience! This country is full of famous sites that will impress you. If you're hiking up a huge mountain, visiting an ancient temple, or exploring busy city streets, Japan has something for everyone.
In this guide, we'll show you 9 famous landmarks in Japan that you must visit. From the stunning Mount Fuji to the lively Shibuya Crossing, we’ve got it all. Each place gives you a taste of Japan's history, culture, and natural beauty. Get ready to explore the best sights and experiences Japan has to offer; let’s get started!
Our top 9 famous sites in Japan at a glance:
- Mount Fuji
- Tokyo Tower
- Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
- Fushimi Inari Taisha
- Himeji Castle
- Itsukushima Shrine
- Dotonbori
- Nara Park
- Shibuya Crossing
🗻 Mount Fuji
The iconic Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji is one of the most famous landmarks in Japan. Known for its iconic snow-capped peak, this majestic volcano stands tall as Japan’s highest mountain at 3,776 meters. If you're a fan of nature, you can't miss a trip to this stunning site.
If you’re looking for a unique experience, try the Mount Fuji classics tour, where you’ll explore different areas to view the mountain, like Mt. Fuji 5th station and Lake Kawaguchi, and even a matcha tasting at the end! This will surely be a highlight of your trip.
How to get to Mt. Fuji:
- By train: Take the JR Chuo Line to Otsuki Station, then transfer to the Fujikyu Railway to reach Kawaguchiko Station.
- By bus: Direct buses run from Tokyo to Mount Fuji during the climbing season.
📍 Where it is: Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan
🕑 Best time to go: Late spring to early autumn (April to September)
🗼Tokyo Tower
Tokyo Tower observatory
Tokyo Tower is a must-see major landmark in Japan. Inspired by the Eiffel Tower, it stands as one of Tokyo’s most iconic structures. At 333 meters tall, it’s the tallest tower in Japan, You can visit the observatory for panoramic views of Tokyo and, on clear days, even catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji in the distance.
The tower is particularly stunning at night when it’s beautifully illuminated, making it a perfect spot for a sunset or nighttime visit. If you want to make the most of your visit, Tokyo Tower Main Observatory is available to get straight to the view!
How to get to Tokyo Tower:
- By subway: Take the Oedo Line or Hibiya Line to Akabanebashi Station.
- By bus: Buses from various parts of the city connect to Tokyo Tower.
📍 Where it is: Minato, Tokyo
🕑 Best time to go: Evening, to see the city lit up
🌟 Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
Golden Pavilion Temple
Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is one of Japan’s most stunning historical landmarks. Located in Kyoto, this Zen Buddhist temple is famous for its top two floors, which are completely covered in gold leaf.
The temple sits by a peaceful pond, reflecting its beauty in the water, a sight that’s awe-inspiring. Lots of people come to Kinkaku-ji not only to appreciate its historical significance but also to enjoy its peaceful surroundings.
If you want to visit more sites around the area, join a Kyoto classic one-day tour that includes Kinkaku-ji along with other historical sites like Yasaka Shrine.
How to get to Kinkaku-ji:
- By bus: Take Kyoto City Bus #101 or #205 to Kinkaku-ji-michi stop.
- By taxi: Kinkaku-ji is about 20 minutes from Kyoto Station by taxi.
📍 Where it is: Kyoto, Japan
🕑 Best time to go: Early morning or late afternoon
👘 Fushimi Inari Taisha
Red torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha
Fushimi Inari Taisha is one of the most famous shrines in Japan, especially known for its thousands of vermillion torii gates. These gates lead visitors up the mountain to the main shrine at the top. It’s not just a beautiful sight but also a spiritual journey.
If you’re up for a hike, the trail through the torii gates is a must-do, offering stunning views of Kyoto and an authentic shrine experience. Plus, the combination of red gates and green nature makes this a photographer’s dream.
For a deeper dive into this historical site, consider booking a Fushimi Inari Taisha tour, where you can learn more about its history and significance while making the most of your visit.
How to get to Fushimi Inari Taisha:
- By train: Take the JR Nara Line to Fushimi Inari Station.
- By taxi: About 10 minutes from Kyoto Station.
📍 Where it is: Kyoto, Japan
🕑 Best time to go: Early morning or late afternoon
🏯 Himeji Castle
Sakura blooming at Himeji Castle
Himeji Castle, also known as the White Heron Castle, is Japan’s most beautiful and well-preserved castle. With its white exterior and intricate design, it’s no wonder that this historic site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You can explore the castle’s various levels and enjoy panoramic views of Himeji City from the top. If you're a history enthusiast, you'll appreciate the castle’s deep ties to Japanese culture and its strategic significance during feudal times.
Be sure to add the Himeji Castle historical tour to your trip. This tour will give you a closer look at the castle's amazing history and help you learn more about its importance to Japanese culture as you explore.
How to get to Himeji Castle:
- By train: Take the JR Sanyo Shinkansen to Himeji Station.
- By bus: Take the community bus from Himeji Station to Himeji Castle.
📍 Where it is: Himeji, Japan
🕑 Best time to go: Spring during cherry blossom season
⛩️ Itsukushima Shrine
Itsukushima Shrine, floating torii gate
One of the most iconic sights in Japan is the Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island. The shrine is famous for its "floating" torii gate, which stands in the water and creates a breathtaking scene, especially during high tide.
Make sure to visit the shrine at different times to catch the changing tides, which provide different perspectives of this historic site!
The entire island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with beautiful hiking trails, stunning views, and a variety of cultural experiences. So, add a Miyajima tour to your trip for a full day of exploring the island’s beauty and culture!
How to get to Itsukushima Shrine:
- By ferry: Take a ferry from Miyajimaguchi Port to Miyajima Island.
- By bus: Local buses connect Hiroshima to the ferry terminal.
📍 Where it is: Miyajima Island, Hiroshima Prefecture
🕑 Best time to go: Early morning or evening to avoid crowds
🍡 Dotonbori
Glico man sign at Dotonbori
Dotonbori is a famous district in Osaka known for its neon lights, shopping, and entertainment. It’s a hub for food lovers with its wide range of delicious street food like takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (Japanese savory pancakes).
As you walk down the canal, you’ll be surrounded by bright billboards, including the iconic Glico Man sign. Whether you're looking for great food or unique experiences, Dotonbori will not disappoint. To explore Dotonbori in style, hop on a Dotonbori river cruise to see the district from another perspective.
How to get to Dotonbori:
- By train: Take the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line to Namba Station.
- By taxi: Dotonbori is about 5 minutes by taxi from Namba Station.
📍 Where it is: Osaka, Japan
🕑 Best time to go: Evening, when the neon lights come alive
🌳 Nara Park
Friendly deer at Nara Park
Nara Park is a famous landmark in Japan, home to hundreds of friendly deer that roam freely. The park is not only a beautiful green space but also holds historical sites like the Todai-ji Temple, which houses the Great Buddha, one of the largest bronze statues in Japan.
It’s a wonderful place to relax, take pictures with the deer, and visit nearby temples. Be sure to check out the cultural significance of this beautiful area. If you're visiting Nara, go on a Nara Uji World Heritage site tour to explore the park and its famous temples. It even comes with a hot springs experience.
How to get to Nara Park:
- By train: Take the Kintetsu Nara Line to Kintetsu Nara Station.
- By bus: Nara Park is easily accessible by bus from Nara Station.
📍 Where it is: Nara, Japan
🕑 Best time to go: Spring (cherry blossoms) or autumn (fall foliage)
🚦Shibuya Crossing
Bird’s eye view of Shibuya Crossing
Shibuya Crossing is one of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world, located in the heart of Tokyo. The sight of hundreds of people crossing the street in all directions is iconic and captures the energy of this vibrant city. Surrounded by towering skyscrapers and neon signs, this famous crossing is a must-see when in Tokyo.
Make the most of your visit by heading to the Shibuya Sky Tokyo for an elevated view of the crossing and the surrounding area.
How to get to Shibuya Crossing:
- By train: Take the JR Yamanote Line to Shibuya Station.
- By subway: The Tokyo Metro Hanzomon and Ginza Lines also stop at Shibuya Station.
📍 Where it is: Shibuya, Tokyo
🕑 Best time to go: Evening, when the area is buzzing with people
FAQs about landmarks in Japan
What are the most famous landmarks in Japan?
Some of the most famous landmarks in Japan include Mount Fuji, Tokyo Tower, Fushimi Inari Taisha, and Himeji Castle. These landmarks are known for their cultural significance, natural beauty, and historical importance.
What are the top 10 Japan landmarks?
In addition to the landmarks listed in this blog, other must-see sites include Nara Park, Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Itsukushima Shrine, and Shibuya Crossing.
What is the biggest landmark in Japan?
Mount Fuji is the biggest landmark in Japan, standing at 3,776 meters (12,389 feet). It’s the highest peak in the country and one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world.
What are the three famous sights in Japan?
The three famous sights in Japan include Mount Fuji, Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), and Fushimi Inari Taisha. These landmarks represent the country’s natural beauty, culture, and spirituality.
Visit famous places in Japan today!
Japan is a country full of major sites. From the towering Mount Fuji to the busy Shibuya Crossing, the famous landmarks in Japan show off its rich history, exciting culture, and stunning nature. Each landmark is a special part of what makes Japan unique.
So, what are you waiting for? Get your bags packed, plan your trip, and get ready to explore these amazing landmarks in Japan. The adventure of a lifetime is waiting for you, let’s go discover Japan!
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