Preparing for the trip usually includes thinking what you definitely want to see there. There is always a little bit of fear of missing out on something really important and special. Although you just have to accept that you can never see everything. 
First thing I think of about Japan is Mount Fuji and cherry blossoms

Wouldn´t it be great if someone local would give you their recommendation already before the trip? So I asked my good Japanese friend Shin to give me
her list of Top 10 in Japan. It will be divided into several blog posts, enjoy!

Map of Japan

1. Kyoto and Osaka

Kyoto was Japan´s capital and the emperor´s residence from 794 to 1868 and has countless number of temples, shrines and other historical structures to visit. It is one of the ten largest cities in Japan.

More information: https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2158.html

Kyoto, GETTY IMAGES

Osaka is second largest metropolitan area in Japan after Tokyo, but also oldest known capital. It has many temples and museums, and also Japan´s highest skyscraper Abeno Harukas - and it has a viewing platform.

More information:  https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2157.html

Osaka, insideosaka.com

Best time to visit Kyoto and Osaka is from spring to autumn.

Osaka, insideosaka.com

2. Okinawa (including Ishigaki and Miyako islands)

Okinawa has lots of islands and subtropical climate, which means that the temperature is rarely below 15 degrees. The islands are surrounded by the beautiful sea with coral reefs and abundant marine wildlife.

Okinawa main island

Ishigaki Island has nice beaches, manta rays, hiking and jungle like scenery while Miyako island has many of the best beaches in Japan and scenic view from the lighthouse. It also has three major bridges connecting it to other islands.


Best time to visit the region is in summer.



That´s it for now. I hope you enjoyed it and come back to find out more!