Japan by Seasons! Japan Tourist Attraction Ranking

update date 2024/06/10

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Japan is one of the few countries in the world with four distinct seasons. In spring, cherry blossoms are in full bloom, and in summer, lush greenery is a feast for the eyes. In autumn, the mountains are covered with autumn leaves, and in winter, the landscape is covered with pure white snow.

In this article, we will introduce recommended sightseeing spots, ranked by season, where you can feel the transition of these beautiful Japanese seasons.

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Feel the coming of spring! Ranking of Hanami Spots in Japan

Spring is the season when cherry blossoms bloom and all of Japan turns pink. Here is a ranking of cherry blossom viewing spots where you can feel the arrival of spring.

No. 1 Ueno Park (Tokyo)

No. 1 is also the famous "Ueno Park" in Tokyo. Many people visit the park every year to enjoy the walking paths surrounded by tunnels of cherry blossoms. The zoo and museum in the park are also popular among tourists.

Reference:Ueno Park Official Website

No.2 Tetsugaku no Michi (Path of Philosophy) (Kyoto)

In second place is Kyoto's Tetsugaku-no-michi (Philosopher's Path). Hundreds of cherry trees are planted along this road, creating a beautiful scene in spring. The contrast of the cherry blossoms with the cityscape and greenery is wonderful, and just strolling along the path is a soothing experience.

Reference:Philosopher's Path｜【 Kyoto City Official 】 Kyoto Tourism Navi

No.3 Hirosaki Park (Aomori Prefecture)

In third place is Hirosaki Park in Aomori Prefecture, which is very famous for its cherry blossoms. In spring, the approximately 2,500 cherry trees planted in the park are in full bloom, filling the vast expanse with beautiful pink blossoms. Every year, an event called the "Hirosaki Sakura Festival" is held, offering a spectacular view of the cherry blossoms during the daytime, and the cherry trees are lit up at night, creating a fantastic atmosphere.

Reference:Hirosaki Park General Information｜Hirosaki City, Aomori Prefecture

No. 4 Osaka Castle Park (Osaka Prefecture)

Fourth on the list is "Osaka Castle Park (Osakajo Koen). The whole area around Osaka Castle is bustling with people during the Cherry Blossom Festival. In particular, the cherry blossoms lit up at night are fantastic, and a romantic atmosphere can be enjoyed.

Reference:Special Historic Site Osaka Castle Park

No. 5 Kawazu Town (Shizuoka Prefecture)

No. 5 is Kawazu-cho, Kamo-gun, Shizuoka Prefecture, famous for its Kawazu cherry blossoms. Kawazu-zakura are early-blooming cherry trees, characterized by the size and deep pink color of their blossoms. The beautiful pink blossoms bloom from February to March every year, attracting many tourists. The rows of cherry trees stretch for about 4 km, and the scenery is breathtaking.

Reference:Kawazu Cherry Blossom｜Izu/Kawazu Town Tourist Association

No. 6 Mt. Hakodate (Hokkaido)

Sixth on the list is Mount Hakodate in Hokkaido. Hakodate from the top of the mountain via a ropeway. The contrast between the panoramic view of Hakodate city and the cherry blossoms is breathtaking, and after sunset, visitors can enjoy the collaboration with the night view of Hakodate.

Reference:Mount Hakodate Ropeway

No.7 Ohori Park (Fukuoka Prefecture)

In seventh place is Ohori Koen (Ohori Park) in Fukuoka Prefecture. Ohori, located within the park, is covered with cherry blossoms in spring. Visitors can enjoy cherry blossom viewing while taking a walk or having a picnic.

Reference:Ohori Park｜Oasis of water and greenery

No. 8 Atsuta Jingu Shrine (Aichi Prefecture)

No. 8 is Atsuta Jingu Shrine, one of the most famous shrines in Nagoya City. About 1,000 cherry trees in the precincts of the shrine are in full bloom, welcoming worshippers and tourists. Especially at night, when the cherry blossoms are lit up, the atmosphere is fantastic and romantic.

Reference:Atsuta Shrine Top｜Hatsuebisu, Shichigosan, Omiya-surimisai, Exorcism, Nagoya

No.9 Zaimokuza Beach (Kanagawa Prefecture)

The Zaimokuza Coast (Zaimokuza Kaigan) in Kamakura ranked ninth on the list. The collaboration of the sea and cherry blossoms is breathtaking, and one can feel the arrival of spring. The famous Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine is also located nearby, making it a popular sightseeing spot.

Reference: ZAIMOKUZA BEACH - Have fun in ZAIMOKUZA BEACH

No. 10 Shuri Castle Ruins Park (Okinawa Prefecture)

In tenth place is Okinawa Prefecture's Shurijo Castle Ruins Park (Shurijo Koen). In spring, the rows of cherry trees in the park are in full bloom, creating a beautiful scene. Visitors can also enjoy a walk to Shuri Castle while viewing cherry blossoms.

Reference:Shurijo Castle Park | Okinawa Tourism Information WEB Site Okinawa Monogatari

These are the ranking of Hanami spots in Japan.

Hanami in Japan is a traditional event where people gather with family and friends to enjoy a hanami feast when the cherry trees are in full bloom. At hanami spots, visitors can picnic under the cherry trees or walk through a tunnel of cherry blossoms.

In some places, the cherry trees are lit up at night, creating a fantastic atmosphere. Please come and visit! You will feel the arrival of spring while surrounded by beautiful Japanese cherry blossoms.

Blow off the summer heat! Ranking of Coolest Tourist Attractions in Japan

Summer is a hot time of year, and many people seek cooler places to visit. Here are some cool tourist destinations in Japan where you can blow off the summer heat.

No. 1 Asahikawa City (Hokkaido)

First on the list is Asahikawa City in Hokkaido. Hokkaido is relatively cool in summer, and Asahikawa is especially popular as a summer resort. With its beautiful natural environment and clear streams, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as forest bathing and playing in the river. Visitors can also interact with cute animals at the Asahiyama Zoo.

Reference: Tourism | Asahikawa City

No.2 Tateshina Kogen (Nagano, Japan)

In second place is Tateshina Kogen in Nagano Prefecture. Located on a plateau at an elevation of over 1,350 meters, the area is exceptionally cool. Even in summer, the average temperature is an astonishingly cool 20 degrees Celsius or lower, allowing visitors to enjoy walking and hiking. The beautiful starry sky is another attraction.

Reference:Tateshina Tourist Association | Official Site

No. 3 Fuji Five Lakes Area (Yamanashi Prefecture)

The Fuji Five Lakes (Fujigoko) area in Yamanashi Prefecture was selected in third place. Fuji, and the cool scenery is soothing. Fuji, and you can also enjoy water sports and fishing along the lakeside. At night, campfires and fireworks displays are held, making this an ideal place to create memories with family and friends.

No. 4 Bandaisan, Fukushima Prefecture

In fourth place is Bandai-san (磐梯山) in Fukushima Prefecture. Bandai is an active volcano with a height of 1,416 meters, and the surrounding area offers refreshing scenery. Mountain climbing and trekking can be enjoyed, and the beautiful blue lake called "Goshikinuma" is also attractive, and a drive along the Bandai-Azuma Skyline is recommended.

Reference:Bandaisan (Bandai Mountain) - Urabandai Tourist Association

No. 5 Hachimantai City (Iwate Prefecture)

Finally, in fifth place is Hachimantai City in Iwate Prefecture. Hachimantai City is a place where visitors can enjoy not only cool weather but also beautiful natural scenery. Especially if you visit in summer, you will be surrounded by lush greenery with vivid flowers in full bloom. It is also known as a hot spring resort, where you can heal your tired body.

Reference:Hachimantai City Tourism Association

These are the rankings of the coolest tourist destinations in Japan.

Japan has beautiful scenery in each of the four seasons, and although summer is a particularly hot season, the tourist destinations listed in this ranking are known for their coolness. They are the perfect places to escape the summer heat and refresh yourself while enjoying nature and scenery, so be sure to visit them during your next summer vacation.

The best view of autumn foliage! Ranking of Recommended Autumn Foliage Spots in Japan

Autumn is a time of year when the leaves change colors all over the country, creating beautiful scenery. Here is a ranking of the best spots with spectacular autumn foliage.

No.1 Arashiyama (Kyoto Prefecture)

First on the list is Arashiyama in Kyoto. Arashiyama is a popular tourist destination, especially during the fall foliage season, when the scenery is spectacular. The tunnel of autumn leaves seen from the Wataratsuki Bridge and the grounds of a shrine spreading out beyond a bamboo grove make this a place worth visiting at least once.

Reference:Sagano/Arashiyama Area Guide｜Yes, let's go to Kyoto.

No.2 Nara Park (Nara Prefecture)

Nara Park (Nara-koen) was selected as the second place. In Nara Park, visitors can enjoy the autumn leaves while walking with deer. Especially during the daytime, visitors can enjoy the autumn colors while interacting with the deer. Todaiji Temple and Kofukuji Temple in Nara Park are also must-sees.

Reference:Nara Park Quick Guide

No.3 Hakone (Kanagawa Prefecture)

Third place goes to Hakone. Hakone is famous as a hot spring resort, but in autumn, the leaves change color all over the area. In particular, the areas around Owakudani and Lake Ashinoko are known as spots with spectacular views and are visited by many people. The view from the Hakone ropeway is also spectacular.

Reference:Hakone-cho Tourist Association Official Website

No. 4 Mt. Takao (Tokyo)

Next in fourth place is Mt. Takao is easily accessible from central Tokyo, making it an easy place to enjoy the autumn foliage. Takao, visitors can enjoy not only viewing the autumn leaves but also hiking. The view from the top is outstanding, especially at sunset.

Reference: Takaotozan Electric Railway Co.

No. 5 Chichibu (Saitama Prefecture)

Finally, in fifth place is Chichibu. Chichibu is a place rich in nature, and its scenery is especially beautiful during the fall foliage season. The Nagatoro Valley and the Ogano Town area are especially recommended. Chichibu Shrine and the Gobanabatake flower garden are also highlights of the area.

Reference:Chichibu Tourism Association Website

These are the recommended autumn foliage spots in Japan. You can stroll around and enjoy the beautiful autumn leaves. Find your favorite spot and enjoy the Japanese autumn to the fullest.

Autumn in Japan is not only a time to enjoy the autumn leaves, but also food and culture. Some of the most famous autumn delicacies include chestnuts, persimmons, and matsutake mushrooms. In addition, shrines and temples sometimes hold autumn festivals, giving visitors a chance to experience local culture.

Since these spots may be crowded, it is recommended to make reservations and gather information in advance. In addition, please remember to wear warm clothes and comfortable shoes for walking when enjoying autumn foliage viewing.

Winter snowy landscapes enchant you! Ranking of Snowy Tourist Attractions in Japan

Here is a ranking of Japan's snowy tourist destinations that will surely enchant you with their winter snowy landscapes.

1st Hokkaido

The top spot goes to "Hokkaido," which is famous for its heavy snowfall. Hokkaido is famous for its heavy snowfall in the Daisetsu Mountains. Asahidake (Mt. Asahidake) is one of the most popular. Asahidake, which rises 2,291 meters above sea level and offers spectacular scenery covered in pure white snow. The Niseko area is also world-famous, attracting many skiers and snowboarders from Japan and abroad in search of the best powder snow.

Please check out the following article for more information about Niseko.
▶︎ Enjoy Niseko in Hokkaido to the fullest! Sightseeing Information & Access

Reference:Hokkaido Home Page

No.2 Togakushi (Nagano Prefecture)

In second place is Togakushi in Nagano Prefecture. Togakushi is surrounded by mountains over 1,800 meters high and offers a rich natural environment. The area around Togakushi Shrine, in particular, offers beautiful snowy scenery and tranquility. Togakushi also offers skiing and hot springs, making it an ideal spot for those who wish to spend the entire day playing in the snow.

Reference:Togakushi Tourist Association Official Website Sightseeing and Event Information

No.3 Lake Inawashiro (Fukushima Prefecture)

Next in third place is Inawashiro Lake in Fukushima Prefecture. In the winter, the surface of Lake Inawashiro freezes over, creating a field of pure white snow. It is also called "mirror in the sky" because of its beauty. There are open-air baths and ski resorts along the lakeside, where you can warm up while enjoying the spectacular view. Ice fishing for wakasagi (smelt) is also available around Lake Inawashiro, and is recommended for those who want to be active.

Reference:Watch in Inawashiro Town. Enjoy. Eat. Stay overnight. | Inawashiro Tourist Association 【 Official Homepage 】

No. 4 Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route (Toyama and Nagano Prefectures)

Finally, in fourth place is Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route (Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route) in Toyama Prefecture. The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route is a tourist attraction that connects Toyama and Nagano prefectures, and offers beautiful snowy scenery in winter. Especially in the highlands of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, magnificent ice falls and suspension bridges are highlights. In addition, ski resorts and hot springs are located around the Alpine Route, allowing visitors to enjoy a wide variety of activities.

Reference: Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route official website

No. 5 Shirakawa-go (Gifu Prefecture)

Fifth on the list is Shirakawa-go, located in Shirakawa-mura, Ono-gun, Gifu Prefecture, a tourist destination known for its historic gassho-zukuri villages, which were registered as a World Heritage site in 1995. During the day, the entire area is covered in pure white snow, creating a world of tranquility. At night, the houses of the Gassho-zukuri style are lit up, and the mysterious sight of them floating in the dark night is breathtaking.

Reference: 【 Official 】 Shirakawa-go Tourist Association

These are the rankings of Japan's snowy tourist destinations.

Each of these spots is spread out with its own charm, and the snowy winter scenery is worth seeing once, so please visit.

In addition to the recommended sightseeing spots by season, there are still many other attractive tourist destinations in Japan. Please check out the following articles for more information on hidden scenic spots and sightseeing spots with spectacular views.
▶︎ Amazing Beauty! Ranking of Japan's Tourist Attractions: From Hidden Places to Recommended Spots

summary

Japan is a country of four beautiful seasons. Cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in summer, autumn leaves in fall, and snowy landscapes in winter. Charming sightseeing spots await us in each of these seasons throughout the country.

In this article, we have carefully selected a list of recommended sightseeing spots in Japan for each season, in a ranking format. We hope you will find the lineup to be varied, ranging from the standard popular spots to the hidden gems. We hope you will find it useful and find your favorite sightseeing spot.