5 stunning sites to discover in Japan

Japan is undeniably one of the world’s most popular destinations. It is a country of immense wealth, considering only its landscapes and culture. Numerous sites and landmarks deserve a visit during any trip to Japan. Among these, here is a selection of five sites considered the most beautiful in the Land of the Rising Sun.

Mount Fuji

Mount Fuji is, without a doubt, one of the country’s most recognizable landmarks. As the nation’s highest peak, it towers majestically at over 3,770 meters above the relatively flat landscape stretching from south to east. Even Tokyo offers views of this imposing mountain, despite being located over a hundred kilometers away. If you decide to traveling to Japan, Mount Fuji is undeniably one of the most unmissable sites.

For several centuries, this mountain has been celebrated through art and literature. In fact, Mount Fuji is now a UNESCO World Heritage site, given its profound cultural significance. Millions of people climb Mount Fuji every year. From its peak, visitors can enjoy a magnificent sunset. However, others can also enjoy the beauty of this stunning volcano from afar.

Miyajima Island and its Itsukushima Shrine

A short boat ride from the city of Hiroshima will take you to Miyajima, a renowned sacred island. Spanning 30 km² in Hiroshima Bay, Miyajima is best known as the home of the famous Itsukushima Shinto shrine. Dating back to the 6th century, most of the shrine’s structures rise from the sea, built on stilts to create the illusion of floating on the water. These buildings are connected by walkways and piers, allowing visitors to explore one of Japan’s most fascinating landmarks.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Located in northwest Kyoto, the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is the name given to the Sagano giant bamboo forest. Admiration for this bamboo forest has transcended Japan’s borders and, today, it is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful places on Earth. While it is certainly not the only bamboo grove in Japan or Kyoto, there is no denying that such splendor cannot be found anywhere else. Furthermore, the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is the largest bamboo forest in Kyoto. A short walk along a narrow, 500-meter east-west path allows visitors to take in its full beauty.

Atsuta-jingû

Located in the city of Nagoya, Atsuta-jingû is considered one of the most sacred shrines in Shintoism. This shrine is dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu, the most sacred deity in the Shinto pantheon. It is worth noting that the splendor of this shrine, constructed between the 1st and 2nd centuries, has been preserved through the donations of various historical figures in Japan over the years.

The Great Buddha of Kamakura

The Daibutsu, or Great Buddha of Kamakura, is located within the Kotoku-in Buddhist temple complex in the city of Kamakura, south of Tokyo. Standing over 11 meters tall and weighing more than 120 tons, this bronze Buddha, representing Amitabha, is undoubtedly the most significant tourist attraction in Kamakura. This Daibutsu impresses not only through its imposing dimensions but also through its refined aesthetic.