50 Incredible Japan Landmarks (with Photos) -

50 Incredible Japan Landmarks (with photos)

6th February, 2023

There are many incredible landmarks in Japan, making tourism in Japan one of the biggest industries in the country. In this post I will teach you all about these landmarks and tell you why they should be on your itinerary for your next trip. Keep reading to learn more…

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Japan Landmarks

Japan, the land of the rising sun, possesses undeniable beauty for the last 15 million years on Earth. That’s the prime reason for tourists’ attraction to Japanese landmarks. Japan offers incredible sights of ancient temples, legendary highlands, ancient shrines, and much more.

The Japan landmarks tour doesn’t only cover historical places, but also it has formed pre-modern and modern landmarks, mingled with cultural innovations. That ignites the interest of every tourist in Japan.

Are you also craving to see these tremendous Japanese landmarks? For you, I have enlisted 50 incredible Japan landmarks that you can add to your to-go list.

1. Mount Fuji – Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

No doubt, Mount Fuji is one of the famous tourist attractions in Japan and is recognized as the Japanese national mountain. It is a well-known Japanese landmark that attracts tourists more than scenic beauty.

On your journey to Mount Fuji, add these activities and places to your tour plan. Climbing the mountain, visiting the ancient shrines, relishing in the five lakes around the mountain, and skiing at Snow Town Yeti (in the south of the hill).

It is acknowledged as UNESCO World Heritage Site; however, it has vast cultural significance in pilgrims’ lives that you can reveal by visiting it. Moreover, before you pick a bullet train from Tokyo, visit the official site for recent updates.

2. Himeji Castle – Himeji

This is one of the landmarks that presents Himeji’s true Japanese feudal lifestyle and 17th-century architecture. The Castle covers 83 buildings, including complex ground and roof systems.

If you are looking for a specific Japan attraction with cultural influence and high-tech usage, then Himeji Castle is your stop. The Castle installed technology from the Shogun period.

Although, along with your trip to Himeji Castle, you can add Mount Shosha and Kokoen Garden visits to make your trip more exciting. You can do a day trip to Himeji from Osaka or Kyoto.

3. Tokyo Tower – Minato, Tokyo

Tokyo Tower became an incredible Japanese toyrist destination in 1958, and until now, it is the most visited place in the city of Minato. Like other tourists, you will also be thrilled by its 333 meters height and the view it offers from the glass floor section. No doubt it is scary to look down, but seeing Mount Fuji, Mitake, and other places makes me forget about the height.

Besides accessing natural beauty, you can plan your tour on the event days. Tokyo Tower arranges events representing Japanese culture, art, and anime. You can schedule your time by visiting the official event site and double the fun.

Don’t forget to check the weather updates before you hit the Tokyo Tower because clouds can block sight.

4. Kinkaku-ji – Tokyo, Japan

Kinkaku-Ji is a sacred and religious temple in Japan. However, it wasn’t the temple until the death of Ashikaga shogun Yoshimitsu. Yoshimitsu constructed it as his villa, that’s why its architecture offers magnificent halls & rooms covered with stunning greenery and splendid ponds.

Anmintaku Pond is another incredible place (you will also adore it) that carries marvelous beauty and never dries out, not even in winter. Additionally, there are statues where tourists and natives throw coins for good luck.

5. Fushimi Inari Taisha – Tokyo, Japan

Fushimi Inari Taisha is the most famous Japan landmark, visited by millions of international tourists and Japanese. It held significance in the lives of natives as they performed rituals to bring prosperity and blessings to their businesses.

As a tourist, You will be tickled by the ancient history of the rose cake and a swan. The sacred temple has much more to offer, such as the festivals and events they held for different purposes. Moreover, if you’re into ancient Japanese culture, clothes, songs, and societal behavior, then Fushimi Inari Taisha has those things for you.

6. Sensō-ji – Asakusa, Tokyo

Senso-Ji is the oldest temple with the statue of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva and is acknowledged as the most visited landmark in Japan by believers and tourists. Aside from its religious significance and historical evidence of the figure, its four halls, gates, and garden have a magnificent and colorful structural design.

If you are also obsessed, like me, with collecting cultural elements in your tours, then visit Nakamise Shopping Street. You will see traditional Japanese toys, cakes, and much more on that street. Additionally, you can visit any time of the year and get to see different traditional festivals.

7. Tokyo Imperial Palace – Chiyoda City, Tokyo

Tokyo Imperial Palace not only holds the scenic beauty of parks and stone bridges but also influences power. It is the Japanese emperor’s primary residency, which is why it is a must-see landmark.

Visit the palace either on 2nd January or 23rd February to see the inner ground (inside the castle) that remains close to tourists throughout the year. However, you can explore the charm of the East Gardens, Kokyo Gaien National Garden, and Kitanomaru Koen Park.

8. Osaka Castle – Chūō-ku, Osaka, Japan

Osaka Castle is one of the landmarks that offer a lawn garden decorated with 600 cherry trees. Outside of the Castle, you can enjoy the sight of the tea house, Osaka guest house, and Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s Shrine.

Inside the Castle, you will find technological innovations (elevator and much more) and historical objects that fulfill the purpose of the museum.

9. Tokyo Skytree – Sumida, Tokyo

Tokyo Skytree is another incredible tourist destination that offers a spectacular view of Sumida city. As a tourist, you can enjoy a bite of your food in an aquarium restaurant or at Musashi, located at a 634-meter height at Tokyo Skytree.

Additionally, you can visit shops and photo galleries to have more fun. For the latest updates and timings, you can visit their website.

10. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove – Higashiyama Sanjo

Arashiyama is a small district in Tokyo; however, that is the name of the mountains located in the south of the district. It has become the most visited landmark due to its popularity and the natural scenic beauty it offers to its visitors.

In Arashiyama, you can enjoy a boat ride on the Hozugawa River or travel along the central Japan landmark, Togetsukyo Bridge. You can also visit the ancient Tenryuji Temple and Fukuda Art Museum, preserved over the centuries.

11. Itsukushima Shrine – Hiroshima

Itsukushima Shrine is another legendary Japanese tourist attraction due to the settlement of the three deities around 593 BC in the Miyajima. It is not only popular among the natives but also a famous tourist attraction.

Along with the Shrine, the floating “Torii Gate” is a notable landmark for tourists. Everything is built above the water, and the whole Shrine is floating with the water. Don’t forget to see the noh theater stage and the prayer hall at the Shrine.

12. Meiji Shrine – Shibuya, Tokyo

Meiji Shrine is another landmark that belongs to the sacred spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife. Along with the picturesque view of the Shrine, you will find forest and shrine gardens full of striking beauty.

However, you can learn more about the ancient history of the Shrine by visiting the Meiji Jingu Museum. You can watch traditional rites, events, and much more for fun and entertainment.

13. Kiyomizu-Dera – Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto

Kiyomizu-Dera is one of the landmarks that perform rituals to call a deity “Kiyomizu Kannon-san, making it the most visited place in Tokyo.

As a tourist, You will like the wonder of the ancient history of the Deity and the way the main hall stands above the hillside at 13 meters. The main hall’s wooden stage offers a scenic view of the forest and gardens. Moreover, the temple has more than one Shrine and belongs to different deities. On this tour, don’t forget to see Otowa Waterfall, the oldest and most traditional waterfall.

14. Historic Villages of Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama

Have you ever wondered how old and traditional Japanese used to live their life? What makes them so healthy? To get rid of your curiosity, you must visit Shirakawa-gō and Gokayama. These villages carry symbolic significance in native lives and surreal traditional beauty for tourists.

There’s a farmhouse for tourists and many other restaurants and places that you can see and enjoy your trip. These villages are also acknowledged as UNESCO World Heritage sites.

15. Atomic Bomb Dome – Hiroshima, Japan

Does the tragic and catastrophic history of Hiroshima also make you curious? No doubt that Japan has not only faced the crisis strongly but also created new hope from their past. For this purpose, Japan has preserved the building – the only structure left behind after the atomic attack in 1945.

The Dome is a UNESCO World Heritage site now, but the stone building refers to a surviving Japan, which is why it is a famous Japanese landmark.

16. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum

In the 1945 war, most buildings and ancestral elements were wiped out from Japan. However, Japan has collected the leftovers, preserved them for research, and placed them in the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum.

The museum not only exhibits the destroyed and practical elements but also lectures on the history, impact of the war, research analysis, and much more.

17. Nara Park – Nara, Japan

This is one of the most reputed tourist attractions in the city of Nara. The park has small gardens and tea houses for tourists to get more out of their trip.

There is an issue, a traditional garden composed of stone and cultural plants to highlight the picturesque beauty of Japan. Additionally, you can enjoy famous Japanese tea along with some snacks and have a deer on your side. Full of Fun!

18. Todaiji Temple – Nara, Japan

Todaiji temple is another famous Japanese landmark due to its connection with Buddha, and the Nio figures protect it. You will find many ancient things in the temple, such as an octagonal bronze lantern.

Moreover, as a tourist, you can roam inside the temple, see the magnificent gardens, and acknowledge the history at the Nara Museum.

19. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

The park covers 120,000 square meters of area and has small lawns with trees and oriented paths. It is one of the Japanese landmarks that has not been redeveloped or modified by technology or construction material. It is left unchanged to remember the war and the people who died.

The Cenotaph for the A-Bomb Victims is also located in Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. Every year, they held a ceremony for more than 220,000 people who died in that war.

20. Dotonbori – Osaka, Japan

Dotonbori is a lively area that serves as a good representation of Osaka’s Minami neighborhood and has been home to restaurants, shops, museums, and playhouses since the Edo Period. Dotonbori offers the night view in neon-lit and traditional Japanese food specialties such as Okonomiyaki and Takoyaki.

However, the Famous Glico Man Sign is the best spot to click a memorable photo.

21. Kasuga Taisha Shrine – Nara, Japan

Kasuga Taisha is a famous Shinto shrine covered with forest and a path covered with traditional lanterns, and you will see deer roaming freely there.

The shrine roofs consist of cedar bark, and the chapel has a wooden structure and traditional elements that tourists love to see.

22. Jigokudani Monkey Park – Nagano Prefecture, Japan

The Jigokudani Yaen-Koen is situated in the northern region of Nagano Prefecture, in the valley of the Yokoyu River. It has become an incredible Japan landmark due to the natural habitat of wild snow monkeys and the bathing ritual in a natural hot spring.

You will love the sight of the wild forest in the Yamanouchi and Korakukan in the valley around Jigokudani Monkey Park.

23. Kobe Port Tower – Port, Kobe, Japan

Kobo Port Tower is a Japan landmark, completed in 1963, and its 108 meters high from the ground. It is the most popular site for tourists in the port city. The structure of the building is designed by imitating the drum of Noh and Kabuki. From a distance, it looks like a giant red-shaped hourglass and gives a stunning look in the nighttime.

Tourists can go inside the tower and see the city view from the observation deck.

24. Ashikaga Flower Park – Ashikaga City, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan

Have you ever wondered about a land covered with flowers and ancient trees? Well, Ashikaga Flower Park will give that kind of vibe. Even when you stand under the 100-year-old Fuji Tree, it seems like the flowers and leaves of blue, purple, white, and yellow have covered the sky. You will find nothing but natural flowers fragrant.

The park also offers magnificent beauty with unique LED lights, creating a surreal atmosphere for tourists.

25. Rainbow Bridge – Minato, Tokyo

Rainbow Bridge is an iconic Japan landmark connecting Odaiba to Tokyo. It took six years to complete (1993) the two-story bridge for a different type of transport. The bridge offers a stunning Odaiba waterfront and a splendid outlook at night.

26. Hells of Beppu – Beppu, Ōita, Japan

The seven magnificent hot springs known as the “hells of Beppu” feature colorful steamy ponds and pools. However, tourists can involve themselves in different hydrothermal activities. Additionally, tourists receive the outlook of the seven hells, which might not attract every tourist.

27. Amanohashidate – Miyazu Bay, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan

Most people think Amanohashidate is the name of a place in Japan. However, it is more like a bridge connecting Miyazu Bay from both ends, but it is made up of sand, covered with pine trees, and suited to the Sea of Japan.

It is a natural sandbar, 3.6 km long, with the sea on both sides. During visiting the Amanohashidate Sandbar in the summers, you can swim on either side of the sea. Additionally, you can book a boat ride to explore the Amanohashidate area on the waters.

28. Kanabiki Waterfall – Miyazu, Kyoto

Credit: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/

Kanabiki Falls is an incredible Japanese landmark and the most visited place in Japan. You can track down the waterfall at the hill in Miyazu. The location is magnificent, full of high forest trees, and it replicates the cool effects of summer times. No doubt that winter has its charm.

29. Chionji Temple – Miyazu, Kyoto

Chionji Temple carries the significance of the famous Japan Landmark due to the statues of Monju Bosatsu. It is situated on the south side of the Amanohashidate Sandbar. It is a two-story tahoto-style pagoda that was built around the 1500s and carries ancestral elements in it.

However, it is more than a temple; a part of it utilizes as a school and gives wisdom to the students. The whole area is open to tourists.

30. Motorise Kono Shrine – Miyazu, Kyoto

Credit: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/

Motorise Kono Shrine is a single-story, wooden structured Shrine. The architecture covers 10 Katsuogi roof legs and an unseen decorative roof, making it more attractive to tourists. It is less crowded compared to the other Shrines in Japan.

Although it offers a scenic view of the Miyazu, traditional food corners and much more are available for tourists. It is located in the north of the Amanohashidate Sandbar.

31. Tokyo National Museum – Taito City, Tokyo

Tokyo National Museum is a must-see Japan landmark. No doubt it is the Museum of art and traditional & religious statues. The exhibition of the different products lies above 120,000. You will be excited by seeing Japan’s national treasures and their values. However, the cultural archaeological objects are also breathtaking. To understand Japan’s beauty of art, you must visit the museum.

32. Yasukuni Shrine – Chiyoda City, Tokyo

Yasukuni Shrine is an iconic Japan landmark representing peace for the Japanese, declared by the emperor Meiji. The shrine architecture was relished in the mid-20th century and carries the traditional wooden design.

If you are visiting the Shrine, don’t forget to attend the festivals and events they hold for visitors. Moreover, the Yasukuni Museum is hard to miss. It has everything you like to know about the deities and human destruction (wars).

33. Ryogoku Kokugikan – National Sumo Arena

Are you also someone who loves to see Sumo (Wrestling)? Well, If you’re also wondering how it would be to see Sumo live, so track down the Ryōgoku Sumo Hall to watch the tournament live.

No doubt that watching the bulky men’s fight will add another beautiful experience to your life. The place was full of a crowd, and their shouting created an ideal attraction for me. You can enjoy the show with some snacks and drinks.

34. Ueno Zoo – Taitō, Tokyo, Japan

Ueno Zoo is another incredible Japan landmark with Japanese national animals and many notable species. It has many sections, and every section carries a large number of mammals and reptiles.

However, never miss seeing the variety of pandas, tigers, Prairie dogs, polar bears, Asian elephants, Shoebill Stork, and much more.

The restaurants and food corners are nearby for tourists and visitors to get entertainment and food at the same place.

35. Roppongi Hills – Minato City, Tokyo

Roppongi Hills is a man-made city within a city and also a high-tech and advanced Japanese landmark. The Roppongi Hills offer many things to tourists, such as you can explore the beauty of the Mori ground surrounding the Mori Tower.

Moreover, you can see the city view by standing on the observation deck and exploring the art at the Mori Art Museum. Also, don’t forget to try Roppongi Hills Shopping and Dining floor for amazing Japanese belongings.

36. Hakone Shrine – Ashigarashimo, Kanagawa, Japan

Hakone Shrine is another Japan landmark that highlights the beauty of Lake Ash. It is also a tourist attraction due to its floating feature, which makes many people wonder. The best time of the year to see Hakone Shrine is winter, a white blanket over everything and gives a majestic view.

Moreover, If you are looking for natural hot spring resorts, then it’s the best spot for you.

37. Kegon Falls – Tochigi, Japan

Kegon Falls is an iconic japan landmark that gives a splendid view. The waterfall is covered with wild trees and big stones and attracts the native along with the tourists.

Moreover, the Kegon Falls have formed naturally and offer scenic beauty to the view. The water from Lake Chuzenji mainly directs it. At the same time, you can enjoy the view by standing on the observation deck on the nearest tree or via the elevator.

To ignite your trip, you can spend time in Yumoto, a foot spa, or explore Lake Chuzenji by taking the boat.

38. Kumano Nachi Taisha -, Wakayama, Japan

Now, you must be wondering about the Japanese cultural-based landmark, so you must visit the Kumano Nachi Taisha. You will learn about Japanese culture via the events and festivals they hold annually for visitors.

Besides, Nachi Falls makes this area more welcoming for tourists, adding more majestic beauty to its scene. You will also find a red pagoda appealing. The whole area is covered with mountains, beautiful landscapes, and much more.

39. Naoshima Island – Kagawa, Japan

Naoshima Island is full of unique and fun places to visit. First of all, this island completes all the vibes of the Seto Sea. Secondly, the island has four museums that exhibit surreal art that you must see.

However, the island has many big restaurants, small food shops, cafes, and more places where you can explore traditional Japanese food. Although, a giant pumpkin and the art houses cannot be overlooked. That is the main reason it is added to the incredible landmarks found in Japan.

40. The National Art Center, Tokyo

Are you also craving more than just Japanese art and culture? Then NACT is your stop. The Museu has been performing to give advanced experience to its natives and tourists. It has 15 galleries, and each gallery exhibits dreamlike art that everyone wishes to see.

Want to know the more fun part? If you visit the Museum three times, at different times of the year, you will always see a new art. You will rarely see the same twice. Thrilling, isn’t it?

41. Hibiya Park – Chiyoda City, Tokyo

Hibiya Park gives western vibes at first look. However, the Japanese have stored their cultural elements by planting their native plants along with the western flower garden. Feeding the national birds to bring prosperity to their country.

You will also like the traditional music performance (that was held regularly there) and different events and festivals. Choose the right time of the year for your visit and see the Oktoberfest carnival and other Christmas celebrations.

42. Sunshine Aquarium – Toshima, Tokyo

Credit: https://commons.wikimedia.org/

Like every other country, Japan also has maintained its marine life in good form. In Sunshine Aquarium, you will discover sea life by seeing the 30,000 creatures. The aquarium is divided into two parts, an indoor water aquarium and an outdoor open pool.

The place is full of wonders; you will observe the sea life above, below, and everyone once you get inside.

43. Tokyo Dome City – Bunkyō, Tokyo

Tokyo Dome City is an incredible and must-see japan landmark. The Tokyo Dome Hotel is located in the Complex and offers the most refined stay in Japan. Moreover, baseball fans hit the stadium to experience Japanese baseball.

Moreover, you can enjoy many events, festivals and games such as bowling, table tennis and much more.

44. Kabuki-za Theater – Chūō, Tokyo

A traditional Japanese theater is the Kabuki-za Theater. The playhouse serves as Tokyo’s main stage for Kabuki plays. A Kabuki show is a classic play that embraces masks, kimonos, and drums. Tourists get the chance to witness and discover Kabuki tradition by going to the theater.

45. Fuji Hakone Izu National Park – Japan

Fuji Hakone Izu National Park is one of Japan’s most well-known attractions. The Fuji Five Lakes and Mount Fuji can be found within the 1,227 sq m regions.

If you visit Japan, you will explore many wonders in the Fuji Hakone Izu National Park. When you are there, you can explore a variety of paths, ride a Ferris wheel, and observe the numerous natural attractions inside the park’s boundaries.

46. Universal Studios Japan – Theme park in Osaka

One of the top tourist destinations in the country is Universal Studios Japan. The magical land of Harry Potter, which features an interactive recreation of Hogwarts Castle, is one of the key attractions. In Minion Park, another well-liked destination, you may enjoy the 4D Despicable Me Minion Mayhem roller coaster.

47. Tokyo Sea Life Park – Edogawa, Tokyo

Tokyo Sea Life Park offers a close resemblance to the natural environment for the aquarium’s creatures. In the dome-shaped aquarium, you will find three distinct types of Penguins. The aquarium also features a sizable penguin exhibit, including rockhopper, Humboldt, and tiny penguins.

48. Sekino-O Falls – Miyakonojo, Japan

Skino-o Falls are considered to be among Japan’s most majestic and stunning waterfalls. Three distinct waterfalls, collectively known as the Skino-o Falls, flow out of the Shounai riverbed’s potholes.

The waterfalls also have a theory that it heals the body and regulates the blood of whoever visits them. Moreover, it has a fascinating rock formation that makes the area more popular among internationals. These formations produce some of the greatest potholes in the world, which is why the place is one of the incredible landmarks.

49. Niigata Saito Villa – Niigata, Japan

The Saito family initially resided in the Niigata Saito Villa, which was built in the early twentieth century. The villa not just portrays an accurate picture of the traditional architecture but also represents Japan’s Garden design.

Even the government has named it the national garden villa of Japan. You will be amazed when you will go inside the villa because it looks less like a building and more like a garden.

50. Tokyo Disneyland – A theme park in Urayasu

Tokyo Disneyland is a famous and must-see Japan landmark. However, it is not a replica of the idea of Walt Disney. It has seven sectors that will amaze you. Adventureland – is full of different and handful of adventures for people of all ages. Westernland – Offers a scenic beauty that is rare to find in any other part of the world.

Still, each sector offers multiple things and fascinating games. In all these things, never miss seeing Disneysea, Japan’s most incredible place to go.

Japan Landmarks- Conclusion

That’s all we have to say about Japan’s most important sites. This article only covers a small portion of the iconic sights in Japan, but it should give you a good idea of what to see there. Have you recently been to one of these well-known Japanese historic sites? Please add your top tips and must-see locations in the comments section below. Also, if you liked this article, then take a look at these too-

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