There are many famous landmarks in Japan that attract tourists from all over the world. If you’re looking for some inspiration on where to visit in Japan, then look no further!
In this article, we will list some of the most popular Japanese landmarks and provide information about them. From historical monuments to modern buildings, there is something for everyone! So without further ado, let’s get started.
Most Famous Landmark in Japan
Tokyo Tower
The Tokyo Tower is the most famous landmark in Japan. It was completed in 1958 and is a 333-meter high steel tower. The iconic tower attracts millions of people every year and was the tallest structure in Japan until 1988..
The tower has two observation decks, which offer amazing views of the cityscape below. It is a great landmark to visit in the daytime or at night. A word of warning to solo travelers, the tower can become a romantic zone once the sun sets, like the Effiel Tower in Paris.
Some of the popular attractions near the Tokyo Tower include the Zojoji Temple, The Shiba-koen Garden, and the Tokyo Skytree.
Most Famous Natural Landmark in Japan
There is another signature landmark in Japan that is deserving of the most famous title that it warrants a division of modern and natural landmarks.
Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji is a well-known and iconic Japanese landmark. It is the highest mountain peak in Japan with an elevation of 3776 meters and it’s also the most glaciated mountain in japan.
Mount Fuji is a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2013. The history of Mount Fuji traces back to ancient times appearing in Japanese mythology.
There are a few different routes that climbers can take to reach the summit of Mount Fuji, but the most popular route is the Yoshida Trail. The ascent typically takes around seven hours and the descent usually takes around four hours. The climbing season for Mount Fuji typically runs from July until September.
Tokyo, Japan Landmarks
The Imperial Palace
The Imperial Palace is located in the heart of Tokyo and is the official residence of the Emperor of Japan. The palace was constructed in 1868 and is made up of a number of different buildings, including the main palace, the East Garden, and the State Guest House.
The East Garden is open to the public and is a great place to relax and take in some of the beautiful Japanese gardens. The palace is also home to a number of important museums, including the National Museum of Modern Art and the Japan Folk Crafts Museum.
Tokyo Skytree
Tokyo Skytree, located in the Sumida ward of Tokyo, is the tallest structure in Japan and the second tallest tower in the world, with a height of 634 meters.
The tower was completed in 2012 and has become a popular tourist destination, with around 2.3 million visitors per year. The Skytree has two observation decks, a Tembo Deck at 350 meters and a Tembo Gallery at 450 meters offering amazing views. There are also various shops and restaurants in the tower.
The Skytree is often used as a broadcast tower, and the Japan News Network and ANN stations have their studios in the tower. The JNN news studio was the first live broadcast studio to be installed in a tower. The Skytree is also used for digital terrestrial television broadcasting, and the antennae on the tower are used for that purpose.
The tower was designed by Japanese architect Sumitomo Kisho and was built by Obayashi Corporation. The construction of the Skytree was controversial, with some residents in the area opposing it because of the increased traffic and noise that would be caused by the tower. The tower was originally supposed to be 600 meters tall, but it was increased in height to make it the tallest structure in Japan.
The Tokyo Skytree is a popular tourist destination and is definitely worth a visit if you are in Tokyo.
Sensoji Temple (Asakusa Kannon Temple)
Sensoji Temple is a beautiful and well-known temple in Tokyo, Japan. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city, and is visited by people from all over the world. The temple was founded in the year 645, making it one of the oldest temples in Japan.
The temple is dedicated to the Buddhist god Kannon, and is home to a large number of statues and other religious artifacts. Sensoji Temple features a five story pagoda, a large main hall, and gardens.
The temple complex is quite large, and includes a number of different buildings and gardens. The most famous part of the temple is the large red gate known as the Kaminarimon. This gate is one of the most iconic landmarks in Tokyo, and is a must-see for any visitor to the city.
Roppongi Hills Mori Tower
Roppongi Hills Mori Tower is a 54-story skyscraper located in the Roppongi district of Tokyo, Japan. The tower was completed in 2003 and is the headquarters of Mori Building Company. It is one of the tallest buildings in Tokyo.
The tower has a height of 238 meters (780 feet) and contains office, retail, and hotel space. The Mori Tower has an observation deck on the top floor that offers incredible views, which also explains why it is famous in Tokyo.
Edo Castle
Edo Castle is a large and well-known castle in Tokyo, Japan. The castle was originally constructed in the year 1457, and served as the headquarters of the ruling Tokugawa clan during the Edo period.
Edo Castle was extensively rebuilt and enlarged in the 17th century, and is now a large and imposing structure. It is surrounded by a large moat and contains a number of different buildings, including a palace, temples, and storehouses.
Edo Castle is in the Chiyoda district of Tokyo, close to the Imperial Palace. It can be easily reached from central Tokyo by public transportation. Edo Castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Tokyo, and is a must-see for any visitor to the city.
Shibuya Crossing
The Shibuya Crossing is one of the busiest intersections in the world and is a popular tourist destination in Tokyo. The crossing is in the Shibuya district, close to the Shibuya train station. The intersection is a major hub for public transportation and is served by numerous bus and train routes.
The crossing is famous for the large number of people that cross it each day. The intersection is often called “the Scramble” because of the way people cross it. The Shibuya Crossing is a must-see for any traveler to Tokyo.
Kyoto, Japan Landmarks
Kiyomizu Temple
Kiyomizu Temple is one of the most famous and popular temples in Kyoto, Japan. The temple was founded in the year 778, and is dedicated to the Buddhist god Kannon. The temple is famous for its large and beautiful main hall, which is constructed on a hill overlooking the city of Kyoto. The hall is supported by a number of large pillars, and is decorated with carvings and paintings.
The temple complex also includes a number of other buildings, including a five story pagoda. The most famous part of the temple is the large wooden veranda that juts out from the main hall over the hillside. This veranda offers visitors stunning views of Kyoto and the surrounding mountains.
Nijō Castle
Nijō Castle is an impressive Japanese castle and attraction Kyoto is known for. It was built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi and completed in 1603. The castle’s name means “second palace,” as it was intended to serve as a retirement residence for the shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu. The Nijōgosho (Nijō Castle) is a National Treasure of Japan.
The castle complex consists of two main baileys and three minor baileys, which are connected by a series of gates and paths. The buildings in the castle complex include a donjon, residences for the lord and retainers, an audience hall, a tea house, and stables. The castle was burned down during the Ōnin War in 1750 and reconstructed in the Edo period.
Heian Shrine
Heian Shrine is a beautiful shrine located in Kyoto, Japan. It was constructed in 1895 and is dedicated to the spirit of Emperor Kammu and Empress Shotoku. The shrine is made from Japanese cypress and features a beautiful red maple tree that is said to be around 1,000 years old. Heian Shrine is a popular tourist destination and is well worth a visit when in Kyoto.
Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion)
Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is a Zen temple in Kyoto, Japan that was built in 1398. The temple is covered in gold leaf and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan. Kinkaku-ji is part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Other Famous Landmarks in Japan
Himeji Castle, Himeji
Himeji Castle is a large and well-known castle in the city of Himeji, Japan. The castle was originally constructed in the year 1333, and is one of the oldest and most well-preserved castles in Japan. It is a National Treasure of Japan, and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Himeji Castle is made up of a number of different buildings, including a large main keep. The castle is surrounded by a large moat and contains a number of different gardens.
The Great Buddha of Kamakura
The Great Buddha of Kamakura is a large bronze statue of the Buddha located in the city of Kamakura, Japan. The statue was originally constructed in 1252 and is one of the most famous tourist destinations in Japan. The statue is made from bronze and is covered in gold leaf. It is one of the largest bronze statues in the world
Itsukushima Shrine
The Itsukushima Shrine is a beautiful Shinto shrine located on Miyajima Island in Japan. The shrine is dedicated to the goddess of Mount Misen, and is famous for its “floating” torii gate. The shrine was first built in the 6th century, and is one of the oldest shrines in Japan. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The shrine complex consists of a number of different buildings, including the main shrine building, a five story pagoda, and a large hall. The most famous part of the shrine is the “floating” torii gate, which is said to be one of the most beautiful sights in Japan.
Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine
Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine is a famous shrine located in the city of Fushimi, Japan. The shrine was constructed in the year 711 and is dedicated to the god of rice.
Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine is made from Japanese cypress and is surrounded by a beautiful forest of red torii gates. The shrine is a popular tourist destination and is well worth a visit when in Kyoto.
Dontonbori
Dontonbori is a popular tourist destination in Osaka, Japan. The area is best known for its large and well-known neon signs. Dontonbori is also home to many interesting restaurants, clubs, bars, and shops. This is the core entertainment district in Osaka particularly at night.
Natural Landmarks in Japan
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a beautiful natural landmark near Kyoto. The bamboo grove was originally planted during the Heian Period (794-1185) and is a popular tourist destination. The bamboo grove features a large number of towering bamboo trees and is a beautiful sight to see.
Hells of Beppu
The Hells of Beppu are a series of hot springs in the onsen town of Beppu. The springs are famous for their high levels of sulfur and are said to be some of the most acidic hot springs in the world. Therefore, these hot springs are solely for viewing and not for bathing. Nonetheless, it is a scenic landmark of Japan. The springs are a popular tourist destination and are well worth a visit when in Beppu.
Takachiho Gorge
Takachiho Gorge is a natural landmark located in the Miyazaki Prefecture of Japan. The gorge was formed over 10,000 years ago by the Gokase river, and is a popular tourist destination. The gorge features steep cliffs, crystal-clear water, and many jagged rocks. It is said that the gods descended to earth at Takachiho Gorge and is a sacred place for the Japanese.
Discovering Famous Landmarks in Japan
There are many other beautiful landmarks in Japan that are worth visiting. These include, but are not limited to: Mount Fuji, the Kii Peninsula, Gifu Castle, and Matsumoto Castle. Each of these landmarks offers its own unique beauty and charm that is worth experiencing. So, if you are looking for a beautiful and memorable travel destination, be sure to add Japan to your list!
