The history of the city of Tokyo stretches back some 400 years. Originally named Edo, the city started to flourish after Tokugawa Ieyasu established the Tokugawa Shogunate here in 1603. As the center of politics and culture in Japan, Edo grew into a huge city with a population of over a million by the mid-eighteenth century.
Kyoto was first settled in the 7th century and in 794, Emperor Kammu relocated the capital of Japan from nearby Nagaoka-kyo to Kyoto, which at the time was called “Heian-kyo” and was built as a scale replica of the then capital of the Tang empire, Chang'an (modern day Xian).
The origins of Osaka can be traced back to the 5th century.Thought to be located somewhere near modern-day Chuo-ku in Osaka City, Naniwa-zu was at the time a newly-developed port used as an entryway into Japan from Korean, China, and other countries in Asia.
Originally known as Yamato, Nara was Japan's first capital and the seat of the Emperor. Rich in ideas and technology from Europe, China and Korea via the Silk Road, Nara is a living museum with 1,300 years of art and architecture to offer.
Jump from the neon glow of Tokyo to Gunma's mountain retreats, Kamakura's cultural heritage and the Ogasawara Islands' exotic wildlife.
The Kansai region is one of contrasts, from the glittering lights of Osaka and Kobe to the cultural treasures of Kyoto and Nara.
The Kansai region is one of contrasts, from the glittering lights of Osaka and Kobe to the cultural treasures of Kyoto and Nara.
The Kansai region is one of contrasts, from the glittering lights of Osaka and Kobe to the cultural treasures of Kyoto and Nara.
What's the best city in Japan?? If you are wondering which Japanese cities you should visit, check out our list of “Must-Visit Cities in Japan” including popular tourist destinations like Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and Nara as well as the best tourist attractions in each city!
Japan is a country that is incredibly connected to its past. You will undoubtedly gain an understanding of the spirit of the Japanese people by experiencing the current legacy of this rich cultural heritage.
Its rich cultural history continues to be valued not just passively but actively at historic cities' center and at ancient sites. Take in the essence of Japan and its people with all five senses, from the transforming travel experience of taking part in yamabushi—the mountain ascetic tradition—to hands-on practice at a seat of Zen Buddhism.
Cities in Japan are crossroads of culture that are constantly changing. Here, ancient customs and cutting-edge technology coexist in perfect harmony.
Cities in Japan provide a multitude of unique experiences. You can explore Hiroshima and hear the locals' perspectives on peace firsthand, or you can visit a museum to experience the most cutting-edge AI technology. Climb to the top of the longest suspension bridge in the world to take in the view below, or go underground to a temple fit for a science fiction epic.
Japan may be the only place where one may truly appreciate the four seasons in all their beauty. The natural sights that change during the seasons of spring, summer, fall, and winter are uplifting to the spirit.
At Shirakami-Sanchi and Hachimantai National Park, explore the enormous, ancient forests that are lush and verdant in the spring and fiery gold in the fall. Take a bath surrounded by old trees and let yourself to be transported back in time. Come and experience seasonal delights unique to Japan.
