Tokyo, the capital city of Japan, boasts some of its most significant historical sites – from an iconic castle to its famed A-Bomb Dome – making this an incredible city with something for everyone to discover and see.
Japanese traditions blend beautifully with lightning speed technology. Many temples and shrines in Japan date back centuries; many also provide panoramic city views.
Nara
Japan is known as the Land of the Rising Sun due to its abundant history that can be seen through its many shrines, temples and castles across its territory. Some of these historic landmarks are World Heritage Sites set among scenic scenery – which draws millions of tourists each year to this beautiful land.
Nara is famous for its Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines that showcase stunning artifacts, making it one of the most historically significant locations in Japan and boasting more World Heritage Sites than any other prefecture in Japan. Nara features some major tourist draws such as Todai-ji’s main building as well as its massive entrance gate known as Todai-ji Nandai-mon – all hallmarks of excellence for any traveller in Japan!
Meiji Jingu stands as an embodiment of Japan’s transition from an isolated feudal state into a global industrialized nation. Located in Yoyogi district of Tokyo and easily reachable via Harajuku station of Tokyo’s metro system.
Koishikawa Shokubutsuen
This temple was dedicated to Kannon (also spelled Guanyin). One of Tokyo’s oldest and most celebrated temples, it was established by two brothers throwing a statue of Kannon into the river in 628. She returned time after time.
Denzu-in was one of the primary residences for Tokugawa Shoguns. This building is part of a massive temple complex and also houses the shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu’s mother, as well as beautiful gardens and sika deer who roam freely – some are even friendly enough to bow when fed shika senbei (deer crackers).
Korakuen Garden was designed by Tokugawa Yorifusa, drawing its name from Chinese teaching which states “Worry before people, enjoy after.” This garden draws inspiration from Hangzhou’s West Lake.
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
Peace Park in Hiroshima, Japan, is home to the A-Bomb Dome – an iconic symbol of nuclear bombing that stands as a reminder of its devastating impact. Formerly called Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall, after being damaged during an explosion it was left as it stood and later named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
At this location you can also find the Memorial Cenotaph and Peace Flame designed by world-class Japanese architect Tange Kenzo, both located alongside A-Bomb Dome to serve as prayers for peace and repose for the victims’ souls.
This park also contains a statue of Sadako, who died of leukemia caused by radiation exposure. Visitors leave paper cranes as tribute in her memory; making it one of Japan’s most visited spots.
Kiyomizudera Temple
Kiyomizudera Temple in Kyoto is one of Japan’s top historical attractions, known for its large wooden stage that hangs off a cliff overlooking the city. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994, this temple first was constructed during 780 AD as part of Hosso sect, one of the oldest Buddhist schools at that time.
The main hall of the temple is supported by 168 Keyaki pillars crafted from Japanese Zelkova trees. Additionally, its 14-meter tall main gate was rebuilt after it burned down during its original construction in 1600s.
Otowa Waterfall is another main attraction at Kiyomizu Temple. Visitors can dip their toes in its refreshing waters and make wishes, giving rise to the expression, “jumping off of Kiyomizu”, which means taking risks to pursue one’s dreams.
