
Japan travel guides
Discover the best of Japan with our comprehensive city guides. From bustling Tokyo to serene Kyoto, plan your perfect journey across 19 incredible destinations.
Explore Japan's cities
From ancient capitals to modern metropolises, discover detailed guides for every major destination accessible with your Japan Rail Pass.

Tokyo
東京Japan's vibrant capital blending ultramodern technology with traditional temples and gardens.

Kyoto
京都The cultural heart of Japan with over 2,000 temples, shrines, and traditional geisha districts.

Osaka
大阪Known for street food, nightlife, and a friendly atmosphere in Japan's kitchen.

Hiroshima
広島A city of peace and resilience, home to the iconic Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima.

Nara
奈良Ancient capital famous for friendly deer roaming freely among historic temples.

Sapporo
札幌Hokkaido's largest city, known for winter sports, beer, and the famous Snow Festival.

Fukuoka
福岡Gateway to Kyushu with famous ramen, beautiful beaches, and rich history.

Okinawa
沖縄Tropical paradise with pristine beaches, unique culture, and World War II history.

Kobe
神戸Cosmopolitan port city famous for Kobe beef, sake breweries, and harbor views.

Yokohama
横浜Japan's second-largest city with a stunning waterfront and Chinatown.
Kanazawa
金沢Well-preserved Edo-era districts, stunning Kenroku-en garden, and traditional crafts.

Himeji
姫路Home to Japan's most spectacular original castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Nagasaki
長崎Historic port city with Dutch and Portuguese heritage and powerful peace memorials.

Sendai
仙台City of Trees and gateway to scenic Matsushima Bay and Tohoku region.

Nagoya
名古屋Industrial hub with a magnificent castle, Toyota heritage, and great food.

Nikko
日光Mountain retreat with lavishly decorated shrines, temples, and stunning nature.

Takayama
高山Beautifully preserved old town in the Japanese Alps with traditional architecture.

Gifu
岐阜Famous for cormorant fishing and the historic Shirakawa-go village nearby.

Okayama
岡山Known as the Land of Sunshine with one of Japan's top three gardens.
What each guide includes
Everything you need to plan your visit to each destination.
Top attractions
Must-see sights and hidden gems in each city
JR access information
How to reach each destination using your JR Pass
Recommended itineraries
Day-by-day plans to maximize your visit
Local food guide
Regional specialties and where to find them
Seasonal highlights
Best times to visit and seasonal events
Practical tips
Local customs, transportation, and insider advice
Travel to all destinations with your JR Pass
The Japan Rail Pass is your key to exploring all 19 destinations in our travel guides. From Tokyo to Hiroshima, Sapporo to Fukuoka, travel unlimited on JR trains including the iconic Shinkansen bullet trains.
Choose from 7, 14, or 21-day passes and create your perfect itinerary across Japan's incredible railway network.
