Lonely PlanetJul 10, 2026
5 places that locals want you to visit in Japan
Five destinations beloved by those who know Japan best.
16 things in this story
- Hirosaki CastleSightHirosaki, JapanHandsome castle surrounded by a large park
- NeboFestivalHirosaki, JapanRaucous summer celebration with papier-mâché floats
- Mt MoiwaSightSapporo, JapanSmaller, quieter mountain popular with locals
- Niseko KanrosuiSightNiseko, JapanNatural spring producing mineral-rich water
- Echigo-Tsumari Art FieldMuseumTokamachi, JapanYear-round exhibition space with triennial festival
- Museum on Echigo-TsumariMuseumTokamachi, JapanCultural gem with over 300 artworks
- Kiyotsu Gorge TunnelSightTokamachi, JapanArt installation passage drilled into a mountain
- BijinbayashiSightTokamachi, JapanBeechwood forest with enchanting scenery
- Tsubame-SanjoNeighborhoodTsubame, JapanOne of Japan's largest craft centers
- KagurazakaNeighborhoodTokyo, JapanChic area with French influence and history
- Zenkō-jiPlace of worshipTokyo, JapanThe temple was built in the 7th century.
- Akagi-jinjaPlace of worshipTokyo, JapanShrine with outer building designed by Kengo Kuma
- Awa Odori dance festivalFestivalTokyo, JapanSummer festival with street lanterns
- Canal CafeCaféTokyo, JapanLovely waterfront Italian restaurant
- JōgashimaSightMisaki, JapanSmall, quiet island off the Misaki coast
- Izakaya KobitoRestaurantNiseko, Japan