Nikko · Utsunomiya · Ashikaga

🌍 Similar to: Yosemite area, USA — waterfalls, forests, and iconic landmarks

Tochigi is a must-visit for nature lovers and history enthusiasts. Nikko, with its famous Toshogu Shrine, waterfalls, and forests, is a highlight. The prefecture also offers high-quality hot springs close to Tokyo.

Shinjuku · Shibuya · Ginza

🌍 Similar to: New York City — the city that never sleeps, infinite variety

Tokyo is Japan's capital and a city like no other. It's massive — 6 times bigger than Paris — with each district having its unique character: fashion, food, anime, coffee, history. If you have many interests, you'll want to stay for weeks.

Kanazawa · Nanao · Kaga

🌍 Similar to: Florence, Italy — compact, walkable, full of art and history

Kanazawa is a treasure trove of history and culture — Kenrokuen Garden, 21st Century Museum, and Omicho Market all packed into a compact, walkable city. Don't miss the local specialty, nodoguro fish.

Nagano City · Matsumoto · Karuizawa

🌍 Similar to: Colorado, USA — skiing, mountain retreats, and outdoor paradise

Nagano is one of Japan's top destinations for both summer and winter. Karuizawa and Kamikochi offer cool mountain retreats in summer, while winter brings world-class skiing. Snow monkeys are a must-see.

Takayama · Shirakawa-go · Gero

🌍 Similar to: Hallstatt, Austria — fairytale villages that foreign visitors love most

Access isn't great, but many of my foreign friends say Gifu was their favorite place in Japan. Takayama and Shirakawa-go are once-in-a-lifetime experiences. In summer, try cormorant fishing (ukai).

Kyoto City · Uji · Nagaokakyo

🌍 Similar to: Prague — ancient temples, tradition, and crowds of tourists

Kyoto is a must-see for almost all visitors. Stunning temples, gardens, and traditional streets. However, it gets extremely crowded during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons — like a theme park.

Kobe · Himeji · Awaji Island

🌍 Similar to: Lisbon, Portugal — port city, castle, and nearby island paradise

Hyogo has Kansai's most famous onsen (Arima Onsen) with beautiful atmosphere, the stunning Himeji Castle, and Kobe's vibrant harbor. If you rent a car, Awaji Island is one of the best spots in Japan.

Naha · Nago · Ishigaki

🌍 Similar to: Hawaii — tropical beaches, unique culture, and island hopping

If you love tropical islands, Okinawa is a must-visit. Affordable, high-quality hotels, crystal-clear waters, and each island has its own unique character. People are friendly and fun. Beyond Naha, every island offers something different.