If you are already in Japan, then you would have already seen how technology meets well-preserved tradition, creating a nation with a unique mix of medieval temples, soaring skyscrapers and natural wonders. But if you are not yet here, then there is a world of crazy activities, thrills and adventures awaiting you. And when it comes to architectural marvels, you will find well-kept structures from the Nara period which are greatly influenced by Chinese architecture, featuring thatched roofs, wooden frames and much more. You will also discover Japanese masterpieces from the Heian period and structures with a western blueprint constructed between the 1860s and World War II. There are so many man-made wonders to be explored in this beautiful country. So plan your visit and choose among the top pod hotels or family-friendly hotels in the country. Then check out these outstanding, famous buildings in Japan.
1. Meiji Mura
Meiji Mura is a famous museum located in Inuyama, a beautiful city near Nagoya. As a museum, its popularity is based on the fact that visitors can get a glimpse into life during the Meiji period and marvel at the beautiful architecture. The location and size of this museum are other factors that attract visitors; the land area is broad and the buildings stand on a hillside, staring at Lake Iruka. Inside the museum, there are original furniture, historical items, objects of reference and more such interesting items to see. Both visitors and residents can learn about Japanese social education during a visit to Meiji Mura. History lovers can spend the whole day here.
Meiji Mura
Address: 1 Uchiyama, Inuyama, Aichi 484-0000, Japan
Website: Meiji Mura
Opening hours: 9:30am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 15 USD
2. Fushimi Inari Taisha
Fushimi Inari Taisha is a historic site which is also a very famous Shinto shrine in Kyoto. Its history goes as far back as 711 AD. There are about a thousand majestic and traditional vermillion gates here. The lower area, especially the ground floor, is usually crowded, but as you go up, there are fewer tourists, giving you a chance to experience the beauty of the shrine in peace. From the top of Mt Inari, the view is pleasant and Instagram-worthy. There is a lot to see here and it would be wise to carry some snacks and water during your visit.
Fushimi Inari-Taisha Shrine Tour with a National Licensed Guide in Kyoto, Japan - Klook
Duration: 1hrsDuration
3. Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building is one of the tallest buildings in Japan. Nestled in the city of Shinjuku, it measures 797 feet (243 meters) tall. It is popularly called ‘Tocho’ and houses the Metropolitan Government of Tokyo. The structure has 48 stories and is divided into various sections. The tower has observation decks where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city. Standing at the top and viewing Mount Fuji will surely give you a beautiful feeling. Waiting for the elevator to take you to the observation decks can be a bit long, but the views from the top will make up for the waiting time.
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
Address: 2 Chome-8-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 163-8001, Japan
Website: Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8:30am - 5pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
Price: free
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4. Osaka Castle
Just as the name implies, Osaka Castle is set in the famous city of Osaka. It is worth visiting for its museum, exhibits, gardens and the renewed beauty of the castle after its renovation. The exterior of the castle, along with its surrounding grounds, are beautiful enough to urge people to take pictures. Start with the pond area, which is at the center of the grounds, and enjoy a memorable time exploring this amazing castle in Japan.
Osaka Castle Ticket
Duration: 3hrsDuration
5. Atomic Bomb Dome
Atomic Bomb Dome is located in the historic city of Hiroshima and serves as a sad reminder of the devastating effects of World War II and nuclear weapons. Learn about the history of this city and how war can leave long-lasting damage. This structure shows the remnants of what used to be a tourist attraction, Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall. The bomb destroyed the landmark and the dome was all that was left of it. It is part of Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park which was made a UNESCO Site in 1996. You can easily access it on foot.
Atomic Bomb Dome
Address: 1-10 Otemachi, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0051, Japan
6. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
Another must-visit site for those visiting Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. It is a famous site for field trips for both international and local students along with regular visitors from around the world. The museum was opened in 1955 and visitors can browse through various exhibitions, admire the magnificent scenery outside the museum, participate in events or simply reflect on the message of peace propagated by the museum. Much of the city was wiped out by the atomic bomb, although Hiroshima’s history is properly documented at the museum. You will need at least two or three hours to check out all the exhibits of the museum.
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
Address: 1-2 Nakajimacho, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0811, Japan
Website: Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
Opening hours: 8:30am - 6pm (daily)
Price: 2 USD
7. Tokyo Skytree (from USD 11.87)
As a broadcasting and observation tower in Sumida, Tokyo, Tokyo Skytree has a beautiful setting. Though most people mistake it as a structure just for viewing, there are other activities regularly scheduled throughout the year that can be enjoyed here. The tower was once the tallest freestanding tower in the world until it was replaced by Burj Khalifa in 2010. It provides visitors with a chance to experience 360-degree views of the city. At the base of the tower is a cool place to shop before or after checking out cool city views from the top.
Tokyo: Skytree Admission ticket
8. Sensō-ji (from USD 14.2)
Sensō-Ji is an ancient Buddhist temple, located in the culture-steeped Asakusa district of Tokyo. The best thing about this structure is not only its history but its location too. Adjacent to the building is another ancient and beautiful five-story pagoda and the Asakusa Shinto shrine. Shops selling local items and souvenirs line the street to the temple. The temple is one of the most visited places in the world, especially during its winter festival that sees the closure of all surrounding streets for the three to four days duration of the festival.
Asakusa: Temple Senso-Ji Guided Tour
Duration: 1.5 hour
9. Nakagin Capsule Tower (from USD 50.0)
Nakagin Capsule Tower is an architectural masterpiece and a landmark in the city of Tokyo. This old structure is an excellent example of a building that has both form and function. It was built in 1972 and set the benchmark for future building constructions in the city. Visiting this building could give inspiration to people about how life could be in the coming decades. With its unusual design and history, Nakagin Capsule Tower is definitely worth checking out.
Nakagin Capsule Tower Tour in Tokyo
Duration: 1 hour
10. Tokyo Tower (from USD 7.91)
Tokyo Tower is set in the special ward of Minato City in Tokyo. It looks similar to the Eiffel Tower but is painted in white and orange to comply with air safety regulations. Since its construction, more than 150 million people have visited the tower. The best experience of the tower is from the top, where on a clear day, magnificent Mount Fuji views can be enjoyed. If you want to see further than Mount Fuji, as far as mainland Japan, go on a very clear day. Though not as popular as the Tokyo Skytree, Tokyo Tower is worth the ticket price to experience beautiful views.
Tokyo Tower: Admission Ticket
NINJA WiFi
Take advantage of Japan’s high-tech systems by using NINJA WiFi, one of our recommended choices for pocket WiFi in the country. Whether you are an avid internet user who needs plenty of bandwidth for streaming your vacation or a trekker who just needs it for information checks and navigation, NINJA WiFi has the perfect deal for you. Choose from various handy pocket WiFi routers that come with affordable deals. You can collect and return your device for free at the airport or the Shinjuku counter or have it delivered to where you’re staying or working for a small fee.
Trip101 readers can also get a 20% discount on their NINJA WiFi purchase by simply following the link below.
NINJA WiFi is especially convenient if you’re out in the country visiting one of Japan’s famous buildings. For more information, make sure to check out our latest article about NINJA WiFi!
Get a 20% discount with the promo code trip101
Data: unlimited (high speed data of 3GB, 5GB, 10GB per day)
Collection/Return: Delivery service to your hotel/accommodation. Collection and return at airport.
Admire glorious Japanese structures
There are plenty of fantastic things to do and places to visit in Japan. Many buildings in the country are famous for their design, history, and purpose. Visit these famous buildings in Japan for some thrilling historical and picturesque adventures.
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