Japan is an incredible country with much to offer travelers in the way of food, beautiful scenery, spiritual experiences, and futuristic cities. The beauty of traveling to Japan is the opportunity to experience both tranquil landscapes and lively city nights on the same day. It has the perfect balance of bustling, technologically advanced urban centers and quiet, serene landscapes that feel untouched. Take a journey through these ten iconic landscapes and vibrant cities to see which destinations stand out for that dream trip to Japan.

10 Iconic Landscape: Sakura Season In Kyoto

Perhaps the most iconic landscape in the entire country, the sakura season in Kyoto is a sight to behold. In this historic district of Gion, the old-world streets are made even more beautiful by the pink flowers overhead. Rivers lined with cherry blossoms make the perfect setting for couples to have a romantic interlude in a rowboat or take engagement photos.

  • When To Visit: March to April
  • Top Thing To Do: Take a boat on the Kamagawa River

9 Vibrant City: Tokyo

Tokyo is Japan’s capital city, and it’s also the largest city in the world by population. With many different neighborhoods to explore, there is no shortage of exciting activities to enjoy, places to eat, and lively streets to discover. When visiting Tokyo, travelers seeking vibrant nightlife spots should check out Shinjuku and Shibuya. For affordable accommodation and a look at Japan’s historical side, staying in Asakusa is the best option.

  • When To Visit: March to May or September to November
  • Top Thing To Do: Visit Sensō-ji Temple

8 Iconic Landscape: Chureito Pagoda View Of Mount Fuji

Mount Fuji is undoubtedly one of the most iconic images of Japan, and there are several places known for viewing the country’s tallest peak. Travelers also have plenty of places to stay and lots of things to do in the Mount Fuji area to fill up their Japan trip. While Hakone is also a popular choice for seeing Fuji, travelers can capture the iconic shot of Mount Fuji with Chureito Pagoda in the foreground by visiting the quaint town of Fujikawaguchiko in the Fuji Five Lakes area.

  • When To Visit: April (for sakura) or November (for fall colors)
  • Top Thing To Do: Hike to Chureito Pagoda

7 Vibrant City: Osaka

Osaka is located in Japan’s beautiful Kansai region (which is a great alternative to Tokyo) and is the second-largest city in the country behind the nation's capital. Travelers seeking vibrant nightlife should look no further than the bustling street, Dotonbori, which is lined with shops, restaurants, and street vendors selling fresh and delicious local delicacies like Takoyaki and Okonomiyaki. Tourists can easily spend three days in Osaka and enjoy all its best offerings and famous attractions.

  • When To Visit: March to May or October to November
  • Top Thing To Do: Try street food at Dotonbori

Related: Do You Need a Visa? & More Questions About Traveling To Japan, Answered

6 Iconic Landscape: Nikko In Autumn

A popular day trip from Tokyo, Nikko is a small city north of Japan’s capital with plenty of unique things to do. It's located in Tochigi Prefecture, and the area surrounding Nikko is stunning with dense forests, cascading waterfalls, and lots of hiking trails. Travelers should try to time their visit for autumn to see the forest at its most colorful and beautiful.

  • When To Visit: October to November
  • Top Thing To Do: Crossing the famous Shinkyo Bridge

5 Vibrant City: Sapporo

In northern Japan on the island of Hokkaido is another vibrant city with a completely different vibe from Tokyo and Osaka. Sapporo is known for its skiing, beer, and massive amounts of snowfall during the winter. The city has around 4,000 bars, nightclubs, and restaurants to choose from. Plus, it's surrounded by beautiful scenery.

  • When To Visit: December to February
  • Top Thing To Do: Attend the Sapporo Snow Festival

Related: 10 National Parks In Japan Worth Taking A Vacation For

4 Iconic Landscape: Row Boats In Takachiho Gorge

South of Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, travelers can explore the island of Kyushu. This gorgeous part of the country is the southernmost of Japan’s main islands and has a subtropical climate. It boasts breathtaking landscapes, including the famous Takachiho Gorge.

  • When To Visit: March or November
  • Top Thing To Do: Paddle a rowboat through the gorge

3 Vibrant City: Fukuoka

Fukuoka is the capital of Fukuoka Prefecture and is one of Japan’s most underrated cities. It is frequently overlooked by travelers, but there are plenty of reasons to visit Fukuoka; it is especially a lively destination for shopping and dining. There are lots of things to do at Canal City Hakata, a massive indoor/outdoor shopping mall. Fukuoka Prefecture is also the birthplace of Tonkatsu Ramen - that’s a must-try dish while visiting.

  • When To Visit: September to December
  • Top Thing To Do: Shopping at Canal City Hakata

2 Iconic Landscape: Snow Monkeys In The Onsen In Jigokudani

Travelers may have seen photos of the famous snow monkeys in Japan, but few people know where to go in the country to visit them in person. The iconic images of these wild macaques bathing in hot onsen waters surrounded by snow are taken at Jigokudani Monkey Park in Yamanouchi, Nagano Prefecture, Japan. To get there, travelers should base themselves in the city of Nagano (which also offers lots to do) and then take a train and bus to the park for a day trip.

  • When To Visit: December to March
  • Top Thing To Do: Visit Jigokudani Monkey Park

Related: Check Out These 10 Cool And Unusual Tokyo Hotels For A Fun Stay In Japan

1 Vibrant City: Kobe

Kobe is another massive Japanese city that is most well-known for its beef. Another major attraction in Kobe is the Ikuta Shrine, one of the oldest Shinto Shrines in Japan. Kobe is located on Osaka Bay and is easy to get to from the city of Osaka in just 15–20 minutes by Shinkansen. The city is lively in all seasons and offers plenty of activities, including visiting museums, sake breweries, or shopping at the harborfront.

  • When To Visit: March to May or September to November
  • Top Thing To Do: Get a panoramic view of the city at Kobe Port Tower