#6 Japan

6. Japan: Why It’s Ranked #6 in 2025

6. Japan ranks second in 2025 due to its perfect mix of ultra-modern cities, ancient traditions, and breathtaking natural beauty. Japan’s efficient transportation system, safety, and unique cultural experiences—from sumo wrestling to cherry blossom festivals—continue to make it a top destination. With its diversity of attractions, Japan promises unforgettable adventures for travelers of all types.

Traveling

• Best Cities to Visit: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, Sapporo.

• Transportation: Japan’s high-speed trains, the Shinkansen, make travel between cities fast and convenient. Purchase a Japan Rail Pass for cost-effective train travel if you’re visiting multiple regions.

• Car Rental: Renting a car is only necessary in rural areas or islands like Okinawa or Hokkaido. Otherwise, public transport is top-notch.

• Flights: Major airports include Narita (Tokyo), Haneda (Tokyo), and Kansai International (Osaka). Japan is well-connected to international flights, and domestic flights are also plentiful.

Food and Drink

• Cuisine: Japan is known for its fresh and innovative cuisine. In Tokyo, sample the freshest sushi at Tsukiji Market. Osaka is famous for takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes).

• Regional Specialties:

  • Hokkaido: Known for fresh seafood, particularly crab and uni (sea urchin).

  • Kyoto: Famous for traditional kaiseki dining, a multi-course meal that reflects the season.

  • Okinawa: Known for goya champuru (stir-fried bitter melon), and soki soba (noodles with pork ribs).

• Desserts: Try mochi (sweet rice cakes), matcha-flavored treats in Kyoto, and taiyaki (fish-shaped cake filled with red bean paste).

• Drinks: Japanese sake is a must-try, with regional varieties throughout the country. Enjoy a traditional tea ceremony in Kyoto for an authentic cultural experience.

• Food Experiences:

  • Sushi-making classes: Participate in sushi workshops in Tokyo or Osaka.

  • Street Food Tours: Explore Osaka’s famous street food at Dotonbori, sampling local delights like yakitori and kushikatsu.

Things to Do

• Historic Landmarks:

  • Kyoto: Visit ancient temples like Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of red torii gates, and the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.

  • Hiroshima: Reflect on history at the Peace Memorial Park and the Atomic Bomb Dome.

  • Tokyo: Explore the futuristic Shibuya Crossing, the serene Meiji Shrine, and the expansive Imperial Palace.

• Cultural Experiences:

  • Onsen (Hot Springs): Relax in the natural hot springs found in regions like Hakone and Beppu.

  • Traditional Ryokan: Stay at a traditional Japanese inn with tatami floors and futon beds.

  • Sumo Wrestling: Watch a sumo wrestling match in Tokyo or Osaka.

  • Festivals: Don’t miss Hanami (cherry blossom viewing) in the spring, or Tanabata (the Star Festival) in July.

• Outdoor Activities:

  • Mt. Fuji: Hike Japan’s iconic mountain or admire it from the nearby Fuji Five Lakes.

  • Hokkaido: In the winter, Hokkaido offers world-class skiing, especially in Niseko.

  • Okinawa: Relax on the tropical beaches of Okinawa, or go snorkeling in the clear waters of Ishigaki Island.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Spring (March-May) for cherry blossoms and fall (September-November) for mild weather and vibrant autumn leaves. Winter is perfect for snow sports.

• Language: Japanese is the official language, but many signs in tourist areas are in English. Learning a few basic phrases can be helpful.

• Currency: The yen (¥) is Japan’s currency. Cash is still widely used, though major cities and large stores accept credit cards.

• Navigating: Japan’s cities are busy, but very safe. Make use of convenient transit apps like HyperDia for planning train travel.

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