The Top 10 Must-Visit Destinations in Japan for 2025
Japan is a captivating blend of tradition and modernity, offering travellers endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. With 2024 having the most tourist numbers ever, 2025 is set to be a big year for travel in Japan.
Popular places like Tokyo and Kyoto might be crowded, but we recommend you venture beyond the popular tourist hubs and explore lesser-known destinations that promise unique cultural experiences and a peaceful journey. Here are our top 10 must-visit destinations in Japan for 2025, the hot spots for next year.
1. Okinawa - A True Blue Paradise
Okinawa is renowned for its laid-back island lifestyle, stunning tropical landscapes, and unique cultural identity. Often referred to as the "Blue Zone," Okinawa has been celebrated for its long life expectancy and centenarians, earning global attention through documentaries such as Live to 100: Secrets of Blue Zones on Netflix. The island's longevity is largely attributed to a combination of factors - a rich diet of nutrient-dense foods, strong social bonds, and a deep connection to nature.
Visitors to Okinawa can immerse themselves in the "True Blue" culture, where vibrant traditions, local music, and colourful festivals are an integral part of everyday life. The island is home to some of Japan's most beautiful beaches, with certain islands such as Miyakojima being especially famous for their white-sand beaches and crystal clear water.
Food lovers will find Okinawa's cuisine particularly fascinating. Okinawa is famous for its healthy and vibrant diet, which includes nutrient-dense staples like brown rice, sweet potatoes, and goya (bitter melon). Okinawan cuisine emphasizes fresh, local ingredients, offering dishes like "soki soba" (pork broth noodle soup) and "izushi" (seafood rice rolls).
In addition to its natural beauty, Okinawa boasts rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore ancient Ryukyu Kingdom sites like Shurijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that reflects the island's vibrant history. The Okinawa Prefectural Museum & Art Museum offers deeper insights into the region's culture, featuring traditional crafts, art, and historical exhibits.
We can arrange your trip in Okinawa, from secluded villas to luxury resorts, from canoe expeditions through the mangroves to scuba diving adventures. Contact us for a quote.
2. Hagi - A Historical Journey Back in Time
Hagi, located in the Yamaguchi Prefecture, is a charming town steeped in history and culture. Often described as a hidden gem, Hagi is increasingly gaining attention among travellers to Japan, who have been recommending it as a must-visit destination. Its well-preserved Edo-period streetscapes, traditional samurai residences, and peaceful atmosphere provide a fascinating glimpse into Japan's past.
Hagi's significance dates back to the Edo period when it served as the political and cultural center of the Choshu Domain. Today, it is recognized as a town rich in historical and cultural heritage, drawing visitors eager to explore its unique charm. The town's beautifully maintained architecture, including samurai houses and old merchant shops, offers a fascinating insight into the lives of the people who lived there. Walking through Hagi's streets feels like stepping back in time, offering an authentic Edo-period experience.
One of Hagi's most iconic attractions is the Hagi Castle Ruins. Perched on a hill, the ruins provide breathtaking views of the town and surrounding mountains. The castle once served as a key stronghold for the Choshu clan, playing a significant role in Japan's political history. Today, visitors can explore the castle grounds, including its stone walls, pathways, and remains of ancient buildings.
Another highlight of Hagi is its connection to Japanese culture and traditional arts. The town is known for its craft traditions, particularly ceramics. Hagi ware, with its simple yet elegant design, has been produced here for centuries and remains highly valued today. Visitors can tour local pottery studios, interact with skilled artisans, and even try their hand at creating their own Hagi ware pieces.
Hagi is also famous for its stunning natural surroundings. The nearby coastal areas of the Japan Sea feature beautiful cliffs, rugged coastline, and pristine beaches, providing excellent opportunities for hiking and exploring. Hagi's coastal beauty is particularly captivating during the autumn months when the surrounding foliage turns vibrant hues of red and orange.
Food lovers will be delighted by Hagi's local cuisine, which reflects the town's rich history. Fresh seafood, such as oysters and squid, is a highlight, along with regional specialties like Hagi beef - a tender and flavorful meat that is gaining recognition among food enthusiasts. Traditional dishes like soba (buckwheat noodles) and Hagi-style pickles also showcase the town's culinary heritage.
With the increasing popularity of Japan's hidden gems, more travellers are recommending Hagi as a peaceful yet enriching destination. It is easily combined with a visit to Hiroshima, and Omakase Tour can arrange a guided tour by private car in Hagi.
3. Uji - A gateway to tranquillity and tea culture
Uji is located in Kyoto and is a serene town famous for its rich tea culture, beautiful temples, and picturesque riverside scenery. Renowned for producing some of Japan's finest green tea, Uji has long been a destination for tea enthusiasts, but in recent years, it has become increasingly popular among travellers seeking a peaceful escape from Kyoto's bustling city. Uji is now drawing attention as a destination where visitors can immerse themselves in Japan's traditional tea culture while enjoying the tranquillity of its scenic landscapes. Many people go there on a day trip from Kyoto city or Osaka, but you can also choose to stay the night in a traditional ryokan.
Uji is particularly famous for producing high-quality matcha, Japan's iconic powdered green tea. The town is home to some of the most historic tea houses and tea plantations, where visitors can tour plantations, participate in traditional tea ceremonies, and savour matcha-based sweets. Uji's tea culture is deeply intertwined with its historical landmarks, including the famous Byodoin Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple's stunning architecture and serene pond provide a perfect backdrop for those looking to connect with Japan's rich cultural heritage.
If you are looking for a guided tour of Uji with a local guide, we can arrange it!
4. Yamagata - A hidden gem of the Tohoku region
Yamagata, located in Japan's Tohoku region, is a destination that continues to rise in popularity among travellers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences. Known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and bountiful seasonal beauty, Yamagata has emerged as a top destination for those looking to explore Japan's natural wonders and traditional culture. In 2025, it will be a hotspot due to its mix of untouched landscapes, historic sites, and seasonal festivals that offer a glimpse into rural Japan. Foreign visitor numbers to Yamagata remain low, but they are increasing, and for good reason.
Yamagata is particularly famous for its mountains, hot springs, and autumn foliage. The region is home to breathtaking landscapes such as the Zao Mountain Range, where visitors can enjoy hiking, skiing, and hot spring bathing amidst stunning natural scenery, along with the "snow monsters" in winter. The seasonal transformation during autumn, when the trees turn vibrant shades of red and gold, draws travellers looking for spectacular fall foliage. Yamagata's serene rural charm, abundant fruit orchards, and picturesque rice terraces make it a destination that's perfect for those seeking tranquility and authenticity.
In addition to its natural beauty, Yamagata offers historical attractions like the Samuraikyo neighbourhood, where well-preserved samurai residences and merchant houses reflect the town's Edo-period past. The region also boasts unique festivals, such as the Yamagata Hanagasa Festival, which celebrates traditional dances and floats, providing travellers with a deeper cultural experience.
On top of all of that, Yamagata is home to the Dewa Sanzan, the three sacred mountains Haguro-san, Gassan, and Yudono-san, revered for their spiritual prowess since ancient times. People looking for an authentic experience visit the Dewa Sanzan area to try a Yamabushi experience and truly connect with nature and themselves. Want to experience a Yamabushi experience? We can help.
5. Toyama - Bed & Craft and the Tateyama Canyon Route
Toyama, located on the Sea of Japan, is becoming a rising star in Japan's tourism scene. One of the key reasons Toyama will be a must-visit destination in 2025 is the combination of its luxury accommodation options and the famous Tateyama Alpine Route. Bed and Craft is a popular accommodation option where guests stay in their own private villa with an apprenticeship, like learning lacquerware, pottery making or wood carving.
Toyama's Tateyama Alpine Route is a highlight for outdoor enthusiasts. This route offers breathtaking views of Japan's iconic mountains, deep valleys, and dramatic landscapes. The journey along this route is especially popular during the summer months, when the snow-capped peaks of the Tateyama Mountain Range become accessible, creating a dramatic contrast against lush alpine meadows. Visitors are drawn to the region's scenic beauty, providing a peaceful yet adventurous escape from Japan's more crowded tourist destinations. Still not open is the Kurobe Unazuki Canyon Route which will connect with the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route and offer some exclusive experiences for visitors.
In addition to its outdoor attractions, Toyama's craft culture has made the region a hot spot for travellers seeking authentic Japanese experiences. Toyama is renowned for its traditional crafts like glasswork, lacquerware, and pottery, offering visitors the chance to engage in hands-on workshops and learn from skilled artisans. Toyama's growing popularity is linked to its focus on blending nature and culture, making it a destination that resonates with travellers seeking both luxury and authenticity.
For more information about Toyama, check out our blog.
6. Amami Islands - Tranquillity and biodiversity
The Amami Islands are home to lush forests, crystal-clear waters, and diverse ecosystems that are unlike anything found on mainland Japan. With abundant coral reefs, pristine beaches, and rich subtropical forests, the islands offer excellent opportunities for snorkelling, diving, and hiking (but watch out for the Habu snake!). The pristine environment of the Amami Islands is protected as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, making it an ideal destination for eco-conscious travellers seeking to connect with nature in a sustainable way.
The Amami Islands have beaches just as amazing as in Okinawa, but it is much more under the radar and you may find yourselves the only foreign tourists around!
We can offer tours for visitors to Amami, contact us if you're interested.
7. Hidaka National Park, Hokkaido - Wilderness and adventure
Hidaka National Park, located in Hokkaido, is an emerging destination for travellers seeking rugged wilderness and authentic adventure. In 2025, Hidaka National Park is expected to gain popularity due to its remote, untouched landscapes, and the increasing interest in off-the-beaten-path destinations in Hokkaido. The park's pristine wilderness, vast forests, and wildlife-rich environment make it a haven for nature lovers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the more tourist-heavy areas of Japan.
Hidaka is famous for its expansive mountain ranges, including the Hidaka Mountains, which are home to diverse wildlife, including brown bears, deer, and rare bird species. The park offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and hot spring bathing. In the colder months, the region is ideal for backcountry skiing and snowshoeing, attracting adventure seekers looking to explore Japan's wild beauty.
What sets Hidaka apart is its remote and untouched nature. Few tourists venture into this region, allowing visitors to experience a sense of solitude and serenity. The park is a sanctuary for those who seek authenticity, untouched landscapes, and a deeper connection with nature.
8. Izu - Hot springs and scenic coastal beauty
Izu, located in Shizuoka Prefecture, is becoming a popular destination for travellers seeking relaxation, scenic coastal beauty, and rejuvenation in Japan's hot springs while still being close to Tokyo. In 2025, Izu is set to attract more visitors due to its unique combination of stunning coastal landscapes, tranquil hot springs, and cultural attractions.
Izu is famous for its volcanic activity, which has created a network of hot springs, each offering different healing properties and scenic views. Visitors can indulge in traditional onsen baths while enjoying breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. There are coastal hikes, the striking Mt. Omuro, waterfalls, fishing villages and quaint countryside towns.
The coastal beauty of Izu, with its rocky cliffs, sandy beaches, and secluded coves, provides excellent opportunities for activities such as snorkelling, surfing, and whale watching. Additionally, Izu's cultural attractions, including ancient temples and historic villages, offer visitors a glimpse into Japan's rich heritage.
Izu is close to Tokyo and an easy day trip or weekend stay. Let us arrange your guided Izu trip!
9. Osaka - World Expo
Osaka, known as Japan's vibrant culinary capital, continues to attract travellers with its dynamic urban energy and diverse attractions. In 2025, Osaka is set to be a hot spot due to the World Expo, which will bring international attention to the city. We already have guests requesting a trip based around their visit to the Expo.
Osaka is famous for its street food culture, bustling markets like Kuromon Market, and iconic landmarks such as Osaka Castle. The city's lively atmosphere, coupled with its delicious food offerings, including takoyaki and street-side ramen stalls, make it a paradise for food lovers.
The World Expo will further enhance Osaka's reputation as a hub for innovation and cultural exchange. Visitors can explore attractions such as the Umeda Sky Building, the historic Dotonbori district, and take part in local festivals.
We recommend this tour in Minoo Park if you want to go a bit off the beaten track in Osaka!
10. Naoshima - Stunning art island
Naoshima, a small island in the Seto Inland Sea, has become an increasingly popular destination for travellers seeking a unique blend of contemporary art, luxury, and tranquillity.
Naoshima is home to renowned art museums like the Chichu Art Museum and the Benesse House, which feature works by world-famous artists such as James Turrell and Yayoi Kusama.
A new art museum designed by Tadao Ando is scheduled to open on Naoshima in spring 2025, which will create even more interest in the island. Our guests love to visit the area, travelling by ferry around the Setouchi region and enjoying the sparkling blue sea.
If you want a tour in any of these places, we can arrange it for you! Reach out to us and we can discuss your dream trip!
