Old temples, shrines and castles survive throughout Japan's cities, and nature — volcanoes, seas, flower fields — differs sharply from region to region. Even within one city, historic streets sit beside the latest nightlife districts, so you can move between two eras in a single day.
Temples and shrinesBuddhist temples (-ji, -dera) enshrine the Buddha, while shrines (-jinja, -gu) honor Japan's native kami. If you see a vermilion torii gate, it's a shrine.
Castles and old streetsCastles from the Warring States era and Edo-period merchant streets remain — great for history walks.
Nature and sceneryFrom hot-spring volcanoes to lavender hills and emerald seas, the scenery is completely different in each region.
City night views and nightlife districtsObservation decks and neon streets truly come alive from dusk.
💡Handy tips
At shrines, bow lightly before the torii, and rinse your hands and mouth at the temizuya (purification fountain) before praying.
The basic shrine prayer is 'bow twice, clap twice, bow once.' At temples, don't clap.
Most temples and gardens stop admission at 4–5 p.m. Famous spots are quietest right after opening.
Some lanes, such as in Kyoto's Gion, are private property where photography is banned. Please follow the signs.
Choose an area below to go to its Sights info.
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Sights
Choose a region and sub-area to see its historic sites & temples, scenery and street sights. Numbers show how many sights are listed.