Where Should You Go in Japan? Let’s Find the Right Places for You

Japan is filled with incredible destinations — but how do you know where to go?

It all depends on what kind of trip you're looking for. Ask yourself:

• Are you chasing Instagrammable views and iconic landmarks?

• Do you want to escape the crowds and explore hidden gems?

• Are you after adventure and outdoor experiences?

• Will you be travelling with kids or older family members?

• Are you fascinated by traditional culture, or do you want to dive into city life?

This post explores Japan’s most popular regions based on travel themes — to help you picture your ideal trip.

📸 Instagram-Worthy Icons: Tokyo, Kyoto, Mount Fuji

If you're coming for the photos (and who isn’t?), Japan’s most famous sites deliver:

• Tokyo: Shibuya Crossing, teamLab Planets, Harajuku fashion

• Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Shrine, Gion, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

• Mount Fuji area: Lake Kawaguchi for views and Insta-perfect ryokan stays

Perfect for: First-timers, photographers, trend-seekers

🌿 Off the Beaten Path: Tohoku, Shikoku, Rural Alps

Want fewer tourists and more authenticity?

• Tohoku (northern Honshu): Unspoiled countryside, hot springs, seasonal festivals

• Shikoku: Pilgrimage trails, rivers, vine bridges

• Japanese Alps (Takayama, Shirakawa-go): Traditional farmhouses and mountain air

Perfect for: Repeat visitors, cultural travellers, introverts, photographers

🧗‍♂️ Adventure + Nature: Hokkaido, Yakushima, Hakuba

Craving movement and open skies?

• Hokkaido: Hiking in summer, skiing in winter, wildlife year-round

• Yakushima (south of Kyushu): Ancient cedar forests, waterfalls

• Hakuba (Nagano): Mountain sports, alpine views

Perfect for: Active travellers, nature lovers, thrill-seekers

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Travel: Osaka, Nara, Tokyo, Hakone

Japan is incredibly family-friendly.

• Osaka: Food, fun, and energy — plus the Cup Noodles Museum

• Nara: Feed the friendly deer and visit giant Buddhas

• Tokyo & Hakone: Theme parks, interactive museums, Mt. Fuji views, bullet trains

Perfect for: Parents, grandparents, curious kids, multi-generational travel

🍵 Culture & Tradition: Kanazawa, Kyoto, Koya-san

Step into Japan's heritage.

• Kyoto: Temples, geisha, gardens, tea ceremonies

• Kanazawa: Crafts, samurai districts, Kenrokuen Garden

• Koya-san: Stay overnight at a mountaintop temple

Perfect for: History buffs, slow travellers, cultural immersion

🏖️ Relaxation & Islands: Okinawa, Naoshima, Izu

Need some calm?

• Okinawa: Warm beaches, laid-back island vibes, snorkelling

• Naoshima: Art island with world-class museums

• Izu Peninsula: Hot springs, coastlines, less touristy than Hakone

Perfect for: Couples, artists, wellness-focused travellers

✨ Still Not Sure? That’s Totally Normal.

Sometimes the hardest part of planning is figuring out where to start. That’s where we come in. At Custom Japan Tours, we help travellers create personalised itineraries based on their interests, pace, and travel style. Whether you want city lights or peaceful trails, museums or monkeys, we'll help you choose the perfect mix, so contact us and let's get started!