8 Essential Stops on Your Journey Through Japan

As of May 2023, travelers to Japan no longer require a COVID test or vaccination proof. Tourism is booming again—almost 2 million international leisure and business visitors explored the country in April 2023. According to Dinogo’s Jessie Beck, who visited in May, the volume of tourists can be quite daunting. (Tip: Make restaurant reservations well in advance for high-end dining and visit popular cities like Kyoto early in the morning to avoid the crowds.)

However, Japan’s exceptional hospitality, meticulous attention to detail, dependable public transportation, onsen, and delicious cuisine make it a worthwhile destination, even during peak times. Plus, with the weak yen, it’s quite affordable.

Whether you're aiming to explore Tokyo or one of Japan’s hidden gems, here are eight top picks for your upcoming adventure.

1. Tokyo

Since its reopening, Tokyo has attracted visitors with new experiences like the recently opened Tokyu Kabukicho Tower, the largest hotel and entertainment complex in Japan. Explore Tokyo’s diverse neighborhoods for unique vibes: Omotesando for fashion, Broadway Nakano for pop culture, Asakusa for traditional experiences, and Ginza for shopping.

Don’t miss Tsukiji Market, a vibrant area filled with vendors offering fresh seafood and a variety of small dishes, both raw and grilled. (Keep in mind that the fish auction section has relocated to Toyosu, a few miles away.) Many department stores also feature food halls in their basements, known as depachika.

Accommodation options

For a sensory immersion in Japanese culture, visit Hoshinoya Tokyo. Dinogo's senior deputy editor Jennifer Flowers highly recommends it, highlighting its ambiance, which features woven tatami mats and live traditional music in the reception area.

2. Kyoto

Visitors have long flocked to Japan's former capital to admire its temples and shrines, such as the iconic golden pavilion at Kinkakuji and the tranquil rock garden at Ryoanji. For a richer experience, wander its narrow streets, where unique shops sell handcrafted items like copper tea caddies at Kaikadō and shibori-dyed scarves at Bunzaburo. In addition to whisky and sake, Kyoto is renowned for its tea, so don't miss the Ippodo tea shop or a quick train ride to the Uji tea district for freshly harvested tea.

Where to stay

Kyoto welcomed Asia’s first Ace Hotel when it opened its doors in June 2020. Dinogo contributor Adam Graham highlights that the 213-room hotel features the 'vintage brickwork, large windows, and high ceilings typical of the Seattle-based Ace.'

3. Kanazawa, Ishikawa

Embark on a -hour rail journey northwest from Tokyo to arrive in Kanazawa, a coastal city on the Sea of Japan renowned for its seafood, including nodoguro black throat perch and shiro ebi white shrimp. After savoring the fresh catch at places like Omicho Market, take time to browse the exquisite lacquerware and colorful Kutaniyaki porcelain. This regional hub in western Japan boasts a rich heritage of arts and crafts.

Many of Kanazawa’s key attractions are within walking distance, such as the Kenroku-en Garden. (This garden is one of the “Three Great Gardens of Japan” from the Edo period, showcasing the design principles of that era.)

Where to stay

The Hyatt Centric hotel, conveniently situated next to the station, features a rooftop bar offering stunning views of the city.

4. Sendai, Miyagi

As the gateway to the northern Tōhoku region, Sendai provides a quick train journey into the mountains to explore the Nikka Miyagikyo whisky distillery (make sure to book a reservation). Further along the same train route is Yamadera, a Buddhist temple perched atop a small mountain, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valley.

A particularly popular day trip destination is Matsushima, which translates to “pine tree island.” For centuries, Matsushima has inspired artists and poets, and it stands as one of Japan’s most scenic locations. The bay features over 250 pine-covered islands, best appreciated from a ferry ride. Close to the ferry terminal, you'll find two historic temples: Entsuin and Zuiganji.

Where to stay

The Westin is situated in one of the tallest buildings in Sendai. It’s about a 10-minute stroll from the station and features spacious accommodations.

5. Hiroshima

Take time for a reflective visit to the Peace Memorial Park and Museum to view the A-Bomb Dome, a memorial marking the spot where the atomic bomb fell during World War II. Additionally, Hiroshima boasts historic landmarks that withstood the bombing, such as Hiroshima Castle and Shukkei-en Garden, which was once the residence of Emperor Meiji in the 19th century. Local culinary delights include oysters, the savory Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki pancake filled with noodles, and a regional variant of shiru nashi spicy ramen with minimal broth.

Enjoy a scenic 30-minute Sanyo train journey from the heart of Hiroshima to Miyajimaguchi Station, where a quick 10-minute ferry ride takes you to the iconic red torii gate. This impressive structure in the bay serves as the entrance to the vibrant Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island. During high tide, the red gate seems to float on the water, while at low tide, visitors can walk right up to it.

Where to stay

The Simose Art Garden Villas, recognized as one of Dinogo’s top hotel picks in Japan, functions as both an art complex and a resort. This retreat opened its doors in April 2023, featuring 10 villas (5 “Waterside villas” and 5 “Forest villas”) along with a restaurant.

6. Niseko, Hokkaido

Each winter, skiers and snowboarders flock to Niseko for its incredible fresh powder. Thanks to its unique geography, the region is renowned for its light, dry snow. During ski season, you’re more likely to hear English spoken on the streets than Japanese due to the influx of international tourists.

There are four primary ski resort areas to discover: Annupuri, Hanazono, Hirafu, and Niseko Village. According to Dinogo’s Jessie Beck, Niseko’s ski area boasts an après-ski scene that caters to all kinds of visitors, whether you prefer a relaxing soak in an onsen or a lively night out.

Where to stay

The Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono offers ski-in and ski-out convenience, multiple dining options, and opulent rooms featuring floor-to-ceiling windows.

7. Matsumoto, Nagano

This city is defined by its rich arts and crafts heritage. Don’t miss the Japan Ukiyo-e Museum, home to the nation’s largest collection of Japanese woodblock prints. The Mingei-kan Museum celebrates traditional Mingei folk crafts, while the Matsumoto City Museum of Art features a permanent exhibit by Yayoi Kusama, who hails from Matsumoto. Nestled in the Japanese Alps, Matsumoto also boasts the historic Matsumoto Castle, a national treasure.

On your return to Tokyo, consider taking a day trip to Suwa, located just south of Matsumoto, to explore several sake breweries, including Masumi, which was founded in 1662.

Where to stay

The essence of Mingei traditional crafts is beautifully woven into the Matsumoto Hotel Kagetsu, with artworks displayed throughout the hotel and in some guest rooms. As Matsumoto's oldest hotel, it also features hot springs on site.

8. Hida Takayama, Gifu

Hida Takayama is accessible via the Japan Rail Hida limited express train from Nagoya station. The journey offers stunning views as the train follows a blue river meandering into the Japanese Alps north of Nagoya. Its historic district, Furui Machi Nami, showcases the charm of yesteryears, and the morning market is among the largest in Japan.

Close to Hida Takayama lies Shirakawa Village, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its traditional wooden homes with thatched roofs.

Where to stay

Staying at this traditional Japanese ryokan includes both dinner and breakfast, featuring local delicacies like Hida wagyu beef. The region is famous for its onsen hot springs, perfect for a relaxing soak after a day of exploration.