If you’re planning a trip to Japan, one of the most important – and challenging! – steps is deciding where to visit.
With so many amazing destinations to choose from, and so much information on the Internet, narrowing down your ideal destinations can seem daunting (whether it?s your first time, or a return visit).

Miyajima Island
The good news is that Japan has so many incredible places to visit (and bucket list-worthy Japan experiences), that you basically can?t go wrong.
The ?bad? news (if there is any) is that there?s no such thing as a true ?best places in Japan? list, since so much comes down to personal preferences and interests.
But to help you navigate the possibilities and decide where to visit, we?ve put together our very own guide to Japan?s best destinations. Our Favorite Places in Japan
This guide is based on years spent living in and traveling throughout Japan, for ?work? (research trips!) and pleasure.
It?s also based in great part on having designed and arranged custom trips to Japan for countless travelers from around the world, and includes not only our and our clients? favorite places, but also some favorites of Japan and other travel experts we?ve come to know throughout the years.
So we hope it helps you decide where to go, whether you’re most interested in major highlights or off-the-beaten-path gems.
But first, a bit of important background!
Japan is Larger than it Looks
Map of Japan
Next to an enormous country like China, Jap...