10 Japanese Cities To Visit That Aren’t Kyoto But Are Just As Scenic

With a rich, distinctive heritage, breathtaking scenery, and excellent transport links, Kyoto’s allure is undeniable. However, Japan boasts a plethora of equally enchanting cities. This diverse country is renowned for its fascinating traditions, vibrant modern cities, and astonishing landscapes, which means it can offer travelers many more experiences beyond the iconic sites of Kyoto.

This guide unveils a few of Japan’s most captivating destinations, each with its unique cultural tapestry and scenic beauty. From Kagoshima and Nara with their unique natural attractions to the traditional architecture of Kanazawa and Kurashiki, these Japanese cities can rival Kyoto’s appeal and are essential additions to any Japan itinerary.

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10 Hamamatsu, Shizuoka Prefecture

Home to the Hamamatsu Flower Park and Lake Hamana

Red train surrounded by pink blossom trees at the Hamamatsu Flower Park, Japan

Hamamatsu boasts the longest daylight hours in all of Japan, which means tourists have longer to enjoy the sites of this picturesque city. With an agreeable climate for horticulture, it is no surprise that the Hamamatsu Flower Park is packed to the brim with fragrant blooms from around the world.

Besides the lovely flower park, tourists can visit Lake Hamana for a diverse array of activities. From traditional night spearfishing to the Hamanako Kanzanji Onsen, there is something for everyone to do in this natural hot spot.

• Most Scenic Spot:Hamamatsu Flower Park ($3.30/adult; 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)
• Top Attractions: Lake Hamana (free entry); Kanzanji Temple; Hamanako Kanzanji Onsen (from $7/adult depending on time and day;10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.)
• Best Time to Visit: Summer for fire festivals at Lake Hamana, December for the Fire Festival of the Kanzanji Temple

9 Kamogawa, Chiba Prefecture

Nestled in the scenic Bōsō peninsula, Kamogawa is a beguiling city that offers a blend of marine wonders and natural beauty

Blue sky, turquoise water and rock formations in Kamogawa, Chiba Prefecture

The Chiba prefecture might be best known as the home of two Disney theme parks. Still, its proximity to the ocean means that visitors can enjoy scenic hikes along the coastline, relax on sandy beaches, and even take in a panoramic vista of the ocean from the top of the Uomizuka Observatory.

Besides the marine wonders, tourists can also enjoy the sights of one of Japan’s top 100 rice terraces, the Oyama Senmaida Rice Terrace. The magical scenery of the paddy fields sprawling down the mountainside is an unforgettable sight.

• Most Scenic Spot:Oyama Senmaida Rice Terrace (free)
• Top Attractions: Uomizuka Observatory (free)
• Best Time to Visit: Sunrise at the Oyama Senmaida Rice Terrace for a hypnotizing start to the day

8 Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture

Japan’s most iconic castle can be found at the heart of Himeji city

Himeji Castle, the great castle with a golden sky and misty air in Hyogo, Japan

A trip to the magnificent Himeji Castle is a must when visiting Himeji. This national treasure is widely regarded as the most striking castle still standing in Japan. On the ground of this UNESCO World Heritage Site lies the Japanese-style Kokoen Garden. Here, travelers can enjoy a cup of green tea after exploring the nine-walled gardens.

Other noteworthy sites include the Engyoji Temple on Mount Shosha and the Otokoyama Hachimangu Shrine, where tourists can snap a professional-looking shot of Himeji Castle.

• Most Scenic Spot:Koko-en Garden ($2/adult; 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.)
• Top Attractions:Himeji Castle (from $6.60/adult; 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.); Shoshazan Engyo-ji temple complex (from $3.30/adult)
• Best Time to Visit: Cherry blossom season (between late March to early April)

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7 Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture

Samurai culture, well-preserved geisha districts, and Kenroku-en Garden

Kanazawa City is steeped in samurai culture. In the past, prominent samurais and their families resided in the surrounding neighborhoods of the former Kanazawa Castle. Visitors can learn more about the local history by strolling through the streets and visiting the former residences of samurai families. Tourists can watch mesmerizing geisha performances at one of the historical teahouses in Kanazawa’s well-preserved geisha districts.

Despite the deep-rooted history of the city, it is Kenroku-en Garden that attracts the most visitors to Kanazawa. There are many incredible gardens to visit, but Kenroku-en is officially named one of the Three Great Gardens of the country. Although Japan is worth visiting all year long, March to April is a great time to explore the garden. This green spot is one of the most beautiful places to visit during spring as this is the time when the blossom trees bloom.

• Most Scenic Spot:Kenroku-en Garden ($2/adult; 7:00 a.m to 6:00 p.m., 8:00 a.m to 5:00 p.m. from October 16 to the end of February)
• Top Attractions:Kanazawa Geisha Experience ($33/adult; April 22, 2023, to March 30, 2024); Nomura Samurai Family Residence (from $3.60/adult; 8:30 a.m – 5:30 p.m., until 4:30 p.m from October to March)
• Best Time to Visit: Cherry blossom season (between late March to early April)

6 Nara, Nara Prefecture

Visit the serene Nara Park and interact with sacred animals

A spotted deer in Nara Deer Park, Nara, Japan in the autumn under a tori gate

When sightseeing in Nara, one cannot miss Nara Park. Many people flock to this delightful green space to interact with the local four-legged residents, the free-roaming deer. The sika deer are considered sacred, and there are over 1,000 wild deer in the park.

Besides admiring and feeding the deer, visitors can also explore the temples and shrines in the area or relax at Kagami-ike Pond.

5 Kagoshima City, Kagoshima Prefecture

Visit Kagoshima for volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and sand bathing

The city of Kagoshima with Mt. Sakurajima in the distance

Those who revel in natural beauty and unique travel experiences will appreciate all that Kagoshima offers. With the active volcano, Sakurajima, as its backdrop, Kagoshima offers awe-inspiring views.

Visitors can enjoy the volcanic landscape by hiking along one of the many trails or relaxing in one of the natural hot springs in the area. Those seeking an unusual experience can try a hot sand onsen in Ibusuki. Although not strictly in Kagoshima City, a trip to the Ibusuki Natural Sand Bath Center Saraku promises to be memorable.

Other scenic highlights include the traditional Sengan-en Garden, a green space preserved by the Shimadzu family for generations, and Shiroyama Park, where tourists can get a view of the city.

4 Kurashiki, Okayama Prefecture

Rich with history, art, Edo-period buildings, and picturesque canals

Traditional buildings at the Kurashiki Bikan historical quarter, Okayama Prefecture

Kurashiki is a picturesque canal city that is famous for well-preserved Edo-period structures. The idyllic willow-lined waterways were once an integral part of the city’s trade network but now serve as a charming backdrop for the historic edo-era buildings.

History enthusiasts will find the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter particularly interesting, while art lovers will appreciate the Western and Japanese collection at the Ohara Museum of Art.

• Most Scenic Spot:Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter; Canal Boat Ride ($3.30/adult; 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., closed every second Monday of the month from March to November)
• Top Attraction:Ohara Museum of Art ($13.20/adult; 9:00 a.m to 3:00 p.m., December to February, 9:00 a.m to 5:00 p.m., March to November)
• Best Time to Visit: Between April and November for the full effect of the lush green willow trees

3 Matsumoto, Nagano Prefecture

Visit the namesake castle of Matsumoto, one of the oldest and most beautiful castles in Japan

Matsumoto Castle, originally known as Fukashi Castle, Matsumoto, Nagano, Japan

The Japanese Alps surrounding Matsumoto offer the city a rugged charm. At the center is Matsumoto Castle, a historic building built in the 16th century and well-preserved over time. It is a well-preserved building, and it is one of the best castles to experience Japan’s feudal past.

Spend an afternoon exploring the local craft stores, galleries, and eateries in the old streets of Nakamachi and Nawate. Nawate-Dori is particularly pleasant for an afternoon stroll. The Edo Period features give visitors a glimpse into the past, and it is a great place to find local snacks and unique souvenirs.

• Most Scenic Spot:Matsumoto Castle (from $4.60/adult; generally 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.)
• Top Attractions:Nawate-Dori; Nakamachi
• Best Time to Visit: Summer for the Taiko Drum Festival at Matsumoto Castle

2 Okayama, Okayama Prefecture

Visit Koraku-en Garden, one of Japan’s top three landscape gardens, and marvel at the dark black exterior of Okayama Castle

Compared to Kenroku-en Garden in Kawazawa, Koraku-en Garden is arguably the most beautiful garden if visiting during the fall season. Although it is designed to be enjoyed all year round, during the Koyo period (the changing of the leaves), tourists can expect their breath to be taken away by the bewitching scenery.

The design of Koraku-en Garden incorporates the surrounding green landscape and Okayama Castle, also known as ‘Crow Castle’ for its distinguishing black lacquered façade.

• Most Scenic Spot:Koraku-en Garden ($2.70/adult; 7:30 a.m. to 18:00 p.m., March 20 to September 30, 8:00 a.m to 17:00 p.m., October 1 to March 19)
• Top Attraction:Okayama Castle ($2.60/adult; 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.)
• Best Time to Visit: Koyo period (between late September to early December)

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1 Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima Prefecture

Mystical shrines, beautiful mountains, and unparalleled views

Itsukushima shrine, floating gate in sea with a mountainous backdrop, Hiroshima

Hatsukaichi is a hidden gem that can be found along the Seto Inland Sea. It is best known as the gateway to Miyajima, also known as Itsukushima. On this romantic island, tourists can find the majestic Itsukushima Shrine, famous for the torii gate ‘floating’ in the serene water.

In addition to this iconic site, there are many other religious sites in Miyajima, such as Daiganji Temple and Daisho-in Temple. Besides the cultural attractions, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the sacred mountain, Misan.

Mount Misan is the peak of Miyajima, and travelers can choose to hike up the mountain or take an aerial cable car.

• Most Scenic Spot:Itsukushima Shrine (from $2/adult; generally open from 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., check the website for more details)
• Top Attractions:Daiganji Temple (free; 08:30 a.m to 5:00 p.m.); Daisho-in Temple (free; 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.); Miyajima Ropeway ($13.20/adult; 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.)
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning to avoid the crowds at the Itsukushima Shrine