Japan’s Top 20 Most Visited Tourist Destinations Accessible by Train

When it comes to breathtaking beauty, rich culture, and efficient transport, Japan is unrivaled. With a world-class railway network that includes high-speed shinkansen (bullet trains), regional lines, and scenic routes, it’s easier than ever to explore the most iconic and aesthetic corners of this stunning country. Whether you’re crafting your itinerary for a short holiday or planning a long vacation, this guide highlights the top 20 most visited tourist destinations in Japan—all conveniently accessible by train. Along the way, you’ll find ideas for things to do, must-visit destinations, and of course, delicious local food.

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Josh K

8/5/20258 min read

a large wooden building sitting on top of a lush green field
a large wooden building sitting on top of a lush green field
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Japan’s rail network is world-renowned for its efficiency, speed, and variety. From the famous Shinkansen bullet trains to leisurely sightseeing trains, there’s a JR train for every kind of journey.

1. Tokyo – The Vibrant Capital

Train Station: Tokyo Station / Shinjuku Station

No Japan travel experience is complete without a visit to Tokyo. This massive metropolis blends futuristic skyscrapers with ancient temples and shrines. Popular neighborhoods like Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Akihabara offer aesthetic photo ops and endless shopping. Explore the Imperial Palace, savor sushi at Tsukiji Market, and enjoy nightlife in Roppongi.

Things to do: TeamLab Planets, Meiji Shrine, Harajuku fashion walk
Food: Sushi, ramen, wagyu beef
Perfect for: Urban explorers, tech lovers, and culture seekers

Discover more: 20 Most Popular Things to Do in Tokyo for Families Using Trains

group of people crossing at the pedestrian lane surrounded by buildings
group of people crossing at the pedestrian lane surrounded by buildings
eiffel tower in paris during night time
eiffel tower in paris during night time
brown concrete building during night time
brown concrete building during night time

2. Kyoto – The Ancient Capital

Train Station: Kyoto Station (Shinkansen accessible)

If you dream of stepping into a postcard-perfect Japan, Kyoto is the place. With its traditional wooden homes, geisha culture, and over 2,000 temples and shrines, Kyoto embodies Japanese heritage.

Things to do: Fushimi Inari Shrine, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
Food: Kaiseki, matcha desserts, yuba (tofu skin)
Aesthetic tip: Visit in autumn or cherry blossom season for the best scenery

brown and white wooden house near green trees during daytime
brown and white wooden house near green trees during daytime

3. Osaka – Japan’s Kitchen

Train Station: Shin-Osaka Station

A major city with a laid-back vibe, Osaka is a foodie's paradise. It's known for its street food, nightlife, and the majestic Osaka Castle.

Things to do: Dotonbori, Universal Studios Japan, Umeda Sky Building
Food: Takoyaki, okonomiyaki, kushikatsu
Holiday vibes: Perfect for a fun and flavorful vacation

white and green concrete building under blue sky during daytime
white and green concrete building under blue sky during daytime

4. Nara – The City of Deer

Train Station: Kintetsu-Nara Station / JR Nara Station

Just under an hour from Kyoto or Osaka, Nara is famous for its friendly deer and ancient temples.

Things to do: Nara Park, Todai-ji Temple (with the Great Buddha), Kasuga Taisha
Food: Kakinoha sushi, mochi
Itinerary tip: Ideal for a one-day side trip from Kyoto or Osaka

Discover more: Nara, Japan’s first permanent capital

brown deer on white sand during daytime
brown deer on white sand during daytime
man in black shirt standing in front of brown concrete statue
man in black shirt standing in front of brown concrete statue
brown bamboo stick
brown bamboo stick

5. Hakone – Mountains and Hot Springs

Train Station: Odawara Station + Hakone Tozan Railway

Just a short trip from Tokyo, Hakone offers natural beauty, art museums, and rejuvenating hot springs.

Things to do: Hakone Open-Air Museum, Lake Ashi cruise, Owakudani volcanic valley
Food: Black eggs, soba noodles
Aesthetic tip: Try a ryokan stay with a private onsen bath

a pirate ship sailing in the middle of a lake
a pirate ship sailing in the middle of a lake
red and black cable cars
red and black cable cars
white and brown houses near mountain under white clouds during daytime
white and brown houses near mountain under white clouds during daytime

6. Hiroshima – Peace and Reflection

Train Station: Hiroshima Station

Hiroshima offers profound historical experiences and serene beauty. Take a ferry to nearby Miyajima Island for even more natural wonder.

Things to do: Peace Memorial Park, Hiroshima Castle, Itsukushima Shrine
Food: Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, oysters
Vacation idea: Combine with a coastal itinerary

Discover more: Visiting Miyajima from Hiroshima Station: A Complete Guide

7. Fukuoka – Gateway to Kyushu

Train Station: Hakata Station

A major city in southern Japan, Fukuoka combines modern city life with access to beaches, mountains, and rich history.

Things to do: Fukuoka Tower, Canal City shopping, Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine
Food: Tonkotsu ramen (Hakata ramen), mentaiko
Travel Japan tip: Use this as your base for exploring Kyushu

a tall skyscraper towering over a city next to tall buildings
a tall skyscraper towering over a city next to tall buildings

8. Kamakura – Coastal Zen

Train Station: Kamakura Station

This laid-back coastal town near Tokyo offers temples, hiking trails, and beaches.

Things to do: Great Buddha (Daibutsu), Hasedera Temple, Komachi Street shopping
Food: Shirasu (baby sardines), matcha soft serve
Aesthetic appeal: Think traditional Japan meets beach town vibes
Travel Japan tip: Use this as your base for exploring Kyushu

selective focus photography of Buddha statue during daytime
selective focus photography of Buddha statue during daytime
a train on the railway tracks
a train on the railway tracks
green tea on green ceramic teacup
green tea on green ceramic teacup

9. Nikko – Spiritual Escape

Train Station: Tobu-Nikko Station / JR Nikko Station

A UNESCO World Heritage site surrounded by forests, Nikko is filled with ornate shrines and natural beauty.

Things to do: Toshogu Shrine, Kegon Falls, Lake Chuzenji
Food: Yuba, soba
Holiday suggestion: Visit in autumn for the foliage

a red bridge over a river
a red bridge over a river
a close up of a building with a clock on it's side
a close up of a building with a clock on it's side
waterfalls surrounded by trees
waterfalls surrounded by trees

10. Sapporo – Snow and Festivals

Train Station: Sapporo Station (via shinkansen + limited express)

Sapporo in Hokkaido is famous for its snow festival and beer culture.

Things to do: Sapporo Snow Festival, Odori Park, Mount Moiwa ropeway
Food: Miso ramen, crab, jingisukan (grilled lamb)
Winter itinerary: A dream destination for snow lovers

Discover more: Explore Hokkaido by Train

11. Kobe – Cosmopolitan Harbor City

Train Station: Shin-Kobe Station

Famous for its beef and harbor views, Kobe offers a mix of Western and Japanese culture.

Things to do: Kobe Harborland, Nunobiki Herb Garden, Mount Rokko
Food: Kobe beef, cheesecake
Vacation style: Romantic and refined

green and brown tree under blue sky during daytime
green and brown tree under blue sky during daytime
a small cafe with a clock
a small cafe with a clock
A large ferris wheel sitting on top of a pier
A large ferris wheel sitting on top of a pier

12. Nagoya – Central Hub of Tradition and Tech

Train Station: Nagoya Station

A perfect blend of innovation and history, Nagoya is often overlooked but has plenty to offer.

Things to do: Nagoya Castle, SCMAGLEV Railway Museum, Osu Shopping Street
Food: Hitsumabushi (eel over rice), miso katsu
Itinerary role: Great midpoint between Tokyo and Kyoto

a group of people walking in front of a tall building
a group of people walking in front of a tall building
a tall building with a glass front
a tall building with a glass front
A table topped with plates and bowls of food
A table topped with plates and bowls of food

13. Kanazawa – Samurai & Art

Train Station: Kanazawa Station (via Hokuriku Shinkansen)

A historic city with well-preserved districts and a vibrant arts scene.

Things to do: Kenrokuen Garden, 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Higashi Chaya tea district
Food: Seafood, gold leaf ice cream
Aesthetic: Traditional meets modern elegance

14. Takayama – Mountain Heritage

Train Station: Takayama Station (via JR Hida line)

A charming town in the Japanese Alps known for its Edo-period streets.

Things to do: Old Town, Hida Folk Village, morning markets
Food: Hida beef, sansai (mountain vegetables)
Holiday idea: Pair with Shirakawa-go for a scenic trip

Discover more: Hida Takayama Travel Guide: A Timeless Aesthetic Escape into the Heart of Japan

15. Hikone – Hidden Gem of a Historic Castle Town

Train Station: Hikone Station (JR Tokaido Main Line)

Located on the eastern shore of Lake Biwa in Shiga Prefecture, Hikone is home to one of Japan’s few original castles that survived the post-feudal era. Hikone Castle is designated a national treasure and offers a deep dive into Edo-period architecture, set against seasonal cherry blossoms or autumn foliage.

Things to do: Tour Hikone Castle and its museum, stroll through Genkyu-en Garden, explore the castle town streets
Food: Omi beef (locally raised wagyu), funazushi (fermented sushi unique to the area)
Aesthetic: Ideal for photography, especially during spring sakura season
Travel tip: Easy day trip from Kyoto or Nagoya, making it a seamless addition to any itinerary

16. Yokohama – Tokyo’s Neighbor with a Twist

Train Station: Yokohama Station / Sakuragicho Station

Just a short train ride from Tokyo, this port city is full of attractions.

Things to do: Cup Noodles Museum, Chinatown, Minato Mirai
Food: Chinese-Japanese fusion, ramen
Travel Japan tip: Great for a quick city escape

lighted city buildings near body of water at night
lighted city buildings near body of water at night

17. Mt. Fuji – Japan’s Icon

Train Station: Kawaguchiko Station (via Fujikyu Railway)

Mt. Fuji isn’t just for climbers—there are viewpoints, lakes, and fun resorts nearby.

Things to do: Chureito Pagoda, Fuji-Q Highland, Lake Kawaguchi
Food: Houtou noodles
Itinerary tip: Ideal day trip from Tokyo

Mt. Fuji landamrk
Mt. Fuji landamrk
mountain near sea
mountain near sea
a field of pink flowers with a mountain in the background
a field of pink flowers with a mountain in the background

18. Beppu – Onsen Heaven

Train Station: Beppu Station (Kyushu)

With more hot springs than anywhere in Japan, Beppu is all about relaxation.

Things to do: “Hells of Beppu” hot springs, sand baths, traditional ryokan stays
Food: Onsen-steamed food, toriten (chicken tempura)
Perfect for: A slow-paced vacation

19. Matsumoto – Alpine Gateway

Train Station: Matsumoto Station

A quaint city known for its beautiful black castle and proximity to the Japanese Alps.

Things to do: Matsumoto Castle, art museums, mountain hiking
Food: Soba noodles, wasabi dishes
Travel vibe: Historic, peaceful, and scenic

A tall building sitting on top of a lake
A tall building sitting on top of a lake
a bowl of noodles and other foods on a tray
a bowl of noodles and other foods on a tray
a person standing in a river
a person standing in a river

20. Himeji – Japan’s Most Iconic Castle

Train Station: Himeji Station (JR Sanyo Shinkansen)

Himeji Castle, also known as the White Heron Castle, is widely regarded as Japan’s most spectacular and best-preserved feudal-era fortress. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the castle is a masterpiece of wooden architecture and defensive design, surrounded by beautiful gardens and moats.

Things to do: Explore Himeji Castle, Koko-en Garden, and the nearby Mount Shosha (Engyo-ji Temple)
Food: Himeji oden, conger eel dishes, almond tofu
Aesthetic: Stunning year-round, especially during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons
Travel Japan tip: Just 1 hour from Osaka or Kyoto—perfect for a historical day trip

a pond filled with lots of water surrounded by rocks
a pond filled with lots of water surrounded by rocks
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