After living in Japan for 3.5 years, here is a list of my too recommended destinations. There are SOOO many amazing places, but these ones have a special place in my heart.
My FAVORITE place in Japan. So many Onsens (both public and private), Snow during winter, peaceful, tattoo friendly
Kusatsu Onsen
The most BEAUTIFUL waterfall with a few Onsens surrounding it. Bring your bathing suit a relax in the public Onsen overlooking the waterfall. Perfect during the fall and spring time.
Kawazu Seven Waterfalls (Nanadaru) - Izu Travel - Japan Guide
Maples Corridor is a MUST when visiting Japan during Autumn (specifically November). The Maple trees are so vibrant and colorful and in my opinion way better than the Cherry Blossoms. This is every fall lovers dream destination.
Maples Corridor at Kawaguchi-ko 2025 - Events in Yamanashi
The most perfect day trip from Tokyo. I love coming here to sit and relax next to the last with a beautiful view of Mt Fuji. If’s so very peaceful and beautiful scenery.
Lake Kawaguchi
BEAUTIFUL walking trails that have views similar to Switzerland. So so peaceful and easy to hike! Look at those views of the mountains!
Japan Alps Kamikochi Official Website | Chubu Sangaku ...
This place FEELS like Kyoto but isn’t as crowded! Easy day trip from Tokyo with lots of authentic food and shops.
Exploring Kawagoe: The Beautiful Traditional Town Outside Tokyo ...
If you really want to deep dive into Japanese culture, I recommend visiting this cute little village. It truly is a hidden gem.
Oshino Hakkai - Fuji Five Lakes Travel - Japan Guide
Another great option if you are wanting to visit somewhere that looks and feels like Kyoto but isn’t. This place is so beautiful and peaceful and I feel not too many people know about it.
Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba (Traditional Japanese Village)
This place truly is a hidden gem. There is a waterfall hidden in this forest area that not only is beautiful, but is a swim hole. When i visited i had the entire waterfall and swim hole to myself! I definitely recommend checking out the area if ever ...
Otaki Kasen Yuhodo Path - Visit Tochigi
Hakone is a MUST when visiting Japan. This shrine is so popular and for a very good reason. Look how beautiful it is overlooking the lake. You can get some really amazing photos here.
Hakone Shrine
When in Hakone, I definitely recommend visiting Owakudani which is an active volcano. This is where you see everyone eating the black eggs that are supposed to give you more years of life! A beautiful concept. This place also has lots of onsens nearb...
Owakudani
Art lover or not, this place is amazing and you could honestly spend hours looking at all the art work. It is an art museum located in the outdoors. This place truly is a gem.
The Hakone Open-Air Museum
Nikko is an amazing place for outdoor lovers. I recommend spending a few days in the area so you can truly experience how amazing it is. And be sure to check out this beautiful bridge.
Shinkyō Bridge
Japan is well known for its vending machines that are located ALL OVER.. even in creepy allyways. This place is Retro Vending Machine Corner and it had so many cool snacks, meals, drinks, toys, etc. This place is the perfect spot to spend an hour or ...
This Kanagawa shop has 90 retro vending machines selling toasties ...
This place is truly amazing. SO many different foods and drinks to try. My favorite part are all the shops located along the streets. You can find some amazing gifts/souvenirs.
Yokohama Chinatown
A fox village in Japan, WHO WOULDN’T WANT TO VISIT THAT??
Zaō Fox Village
The waterfalls in Japan are amazing. You should definitely chase them all.
Fukuroda Falls - Japan Guide
The flower fields in Japan are to die for. A must while visiting the beautiful country.
Miharashi no Oka
Such a beautiful place to visit b 🌸🌱💗
Hitachi Seaside Park
Beautiful waterfall to visit in all seasons 🤍
Kegon Waterfall (Kegon no taki) - Nikko Travel - Japan Guide
This lake is so peaceful and beautiful. I definitely recommend spending some time here and checking out the swan shaped paddle boats.
Lake Chuzenji (Chuzenjiko) - Nikko Travel - Japan Guide
Such a beautiful waterfall, especially during the fall.
Yudaki Cascades
Japan has some of the best gardens, and this flower park is one of them.
Ashikaga Flower Park
This shrine is beautiful and has a beautiful little bridge.
Kameido Tenjin Shrine
One of the most popular temples and for a good reason. So much to see, do and eat. Surrounded by street food and shops.
Sensō-ji
A unique low key bar.
Game Bar A-Button
If you like being outdoors, this place is perfect.
Shinobazu Pond - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2025)
So unique and beautiful. Similar to the popular shrine in Kyoto with all the tori gates, but less crowded.