Japan: 10 Best Places to See, Kanazawa to Ishigaki

Explore Japan's most iconic destinations across 5,390 km, from the historic castles of Kanazawa and temples of Kyoto to the beach paradise of Ishigaki and the bustling streets of Tokyo. This comprehensive route connects cultural landmarks like Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park, Nara's ancient temples, and Kamakura's Great Buddha with natural attractions including Hakone's hot springs and Lake Ashi.

Mode
Places
Start
Kanazawa – historic city with castles
End
A-Bomb Dome
Stops
20
Video author
travmap
Updated

Stops on this route

  1. Kanazawa – historic city with castles — Medieval castle town renowned for its preserved samurai and geisha districts, stunning gardens, and traditional craftsmanship heritage.
  2. Kenroku-en Garden — Kanazawa's most famous attraction, a landscaped garden considered one of the most beautiful in Japan.
  3. Ishigaki – premier beach destination — Tropical island paradise featuring pristine coral reefs, white-sand beaches, and exceptional diving and snorkeling opportunities.
  4. Mount Nosoko climbing — Alpine peak offering rewarding hiking trails with panoramic mountain vistas and access to surrounding volcanic landscape.
  5. Hiroshima – historical city — Peace Memorial Park and Museum commemorate the atomic bombing's history while showcasing Japan's resilience and dedication to peace.
  6. Peace Memorial Park — Major attraction in Hiroshima where visitors come to pay their respects.
  7. Miyajima Shrine — Famous island shrine accessible from Hiroshima as a gateway destination.
  8. Kamakura – scenic bay city — Coastal town featuring the iconic Great Buddha statue, ancient temples, and scenic beaches along Sagami Bay.
  9. Great Buddha of Kamakura — Kamakura's defining symbol and most famous sight, an almost 44 feet high bronze figure.
  10. Nikko – northern retreat
  11. Takayama – Japanese Alps town — Charming mountain town preserving Edo-period wooden merchant houses, sake breweries, and traditional morning markets.
  12. Miyagawa River — Peaceful river coursing its way through Takayama.
  13. Hakone – hot springs & mountains
  14. Lake Ashi — Tranquil lake on whose shores Hakone town lies, offering boat rides with views of Mount Fuji.
  15. Nara – ancient capital — Former imperial capital housing one of Japan's largest bronze Buddha statues and over 1,000 freely roaming sacred deer.
  16. Nara Park — Gorgeous, green park in Nara where the city's main attractions and tame deer are found.
  17. Todai-ji Temple — The highlight attraction in Nara with awe-inspiring architecture and an enormous Great Buddha.
  18. Kyoto – most beautiful city
  19. Gion District — Historic district in Kyoto where geishas and traditional inns can be found.
  20. A-Bomb Dome — Chilling ruins in Hiroshima that visitors can explore.

Useful for your trip

Transport
Nikko is located around two hours to the north of Tokyo, making it accessible as a day trip or short visit from the capital.
Transport
Hakone is located just a short train ride to the southwest of Tokyo.
Tip
Take a boat ride on pirate ships that sail around Lake Ashi for breathtaking views of the lake's scenery and Mount Fuji in the distance.
Tip
Visit Nara Park to see the city's tame deer that amble about asking tourists for food.
Timing
Kyoto is particularly magical when the cherry blossoms are in bloom.
Tip
The Great Buddha of Kamakura is almost 44 feet high and made of bronze, serving as the city's most famed and photographed attraction.
Where to stay
Hakone boasts beautiful mountain scenery, relaxing hot springs, and world-class art museums.
Tip
Ishigaki, located 1,250 miles south of Tokyo, offers beachcombing, diving, and Mount Nosoko climbing.
Tip
Explore Kyoto's historic Gion District to find geishas and traditional inns.
Tip
Visit Kanazawa's Kenroku-en Garden, considered one of the most beautiful gardens in Japan.

Video on this route

10 Best Places to Visit in Japan - Travel Video

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