10 Cities Beyond Tokyo To Include In Your Japan Tour

Nidhi Kadere

Yokohama

Yokohama is the capital city of Kanagawa Prefecture, the second most populated city in Japan. It is a high-tech industrial hub and port city with major companies located there, such as Nissan and Bank of Yokohama.

Skyline of Mt. Fuji and Yokohama | Shutterstock

Kobe

Kobe gives a fusion of Japanese and Western cultures where you can explore the historical Kitano district and exotic Chinatown, admire the gorgeous views from Kobe Port Tower and Rokko mountain, and unwind at Arima hot spring.

Kobe | Shutterstock

Hiroshima

Hiroshima is a city that emerged as a symbol of peace and resilience from the ashes of an atomic bomb. Pay your respects at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum, visit Hiroshima Castle and Shukkeien Garden.

Hiroshima atomic dome | Shutterstock

Kurashiki

Kurashiki retains the atmosphere of old Japan, which makes it feel like you've travelled back in time. Indulge in the local specialities such as Kurashiki ramen and Bikan manju while strolling along the canal lined with traditional houses and shops.

Kurashiki river | Shutterstock

Himeji

Himeji has the most beautiful castle in the country and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city's architecture shows Japanese elegance with the historical Himeji Castle and its surrounding gardens, Mount Shosha and Kokoen Garden.

Himeji castle | Shutterstock

Naoshima

Naoshima is an island in the Seto Inland Sea that serves as a hub for contemporary art. Notably, the world-renowned yellow pumpkin by Yayoi Kusama is a must-see attraction here.

Naoshima pumpkin | Shutterstock

Osaka

Osaka is Japan's third-largest city. Before the Nara Period, when the capital used to be moved with the reign of each new emperor, Naniwa (now Osaka) was once Japan's capital city, the first ever known.

Minoh waterfall in autumn season, Osaka | Shutterstock

Hakone

Hakone is known for its hot spring resorts and serves as a gateway to Mount Fuji. Enjoying a ride on the Hakone Ropeway isn't a bad idea here. Visit the open-air Hakone Museum of Art and gawk at the incredible views of Mount Fuji.

Inside the Hakone Open Air Museum | Shutterstock

Nikko

Nikko is a sacred mountain town and a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can marvel at the intricate Toshogu shrine, find tranquillity at the Rinnoji temple, witness the grandeur of Kegon waterfall, and take in the beauty of Lake Chuzenji.

Shinkyo Bridge in Nikko | Shutterstock

Kamakura

A former capital of Japan and a centre of Buddhism and Zen, it is a city with a wealth of temples and shrines. The Great Buddha statue, the serene Hasedera temple, the majestic Tsurugaoka Hachimangu shrine should not be missed.

The Great Buddha statue | Shutterstock

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