Our Hyper-Curated Travel Guide to Japan: 5 Places to Visit (That Aren’t Tokyo)

By Esther Klijn, Award-Winning Luxury Travel Planner and Honeymoon Travel Agent

Curious why Japan travel guides are topping travel wishlists worldwide? With its extraordinary cuisine, impeccable hospitality, and a range of ethereal temples and futuristic cities, Japan travel is a must in life. Post-pandemic wanderlust is in full swing, and with a strong dollar to yen, both business travel to Japan and luxury vacations in Japan are booming.

And while Tokyo is a world-class city that deserves its accolades, there’s much more to discover—places to visit in Japan beyond the capital— that exemplify serenity, flavor, and rich history. From Kyoto’s temples to Osaka’s food scene, our hyper-curated Japan itinerary highlights five destinations for travelers seeking out-of-the-ordinary experiences.

Our luxury travel planning team at CIRE Travel has in-depth, firsthand knowledge of Japan’s diverse regions and local experiences. Whether you’re booking a corporate incentive trip, wanting to explore more of Japan, or planning a once-in-a-lifetime luxury vacation, we design travel itineraries that match your interests, every ryokan, bullet train, flight, accommodation, and experience meticulously arranged (or recommended if you prefer a looser plan).

As CIRE Travel’s resident Far East expert, I have traveled extensively in Japan. The two mottos that have shaped my career and character are “learn by doing” and “learn by going.” Ready to experience The Land of the Rising Sun? Our travel guide to Japan awaits. Ikimashou! Let’s go!

5 Cities, 5 Reasons to Visit Japan

When planning a Japan itinerary beyond Tokyo, it’s easy to let the capital city steal the spotlight. But I’ve handpicked five alternate destinations because they represent the full spectrum of what makes Japan so compelling: Kyoto’s quiet cadence, Osaka’s culinary kingdom, Nara’s serene spirituality, Hiroshima’s history, and Nikkō’s natural beauty.

Japan is a country that can be visited time and again. Which places on my list will pique your wanderlust? Discover them here in my hyper-curated travel guide to Japan.

The Kyoto Travel Edit: Japan’s Cultural Heart

Travel to Kyoto, Japan’s cultural heart, where tradition isn’t just preserved; it’s a part of daily life. Kyoto has 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and seasons that change the scenery dramatically. Cherry blossoms bloom in spring. Fiery maple leaves flutter in fall. In Kyoto, past and present collide in real time. So, plan ahead, as Kyoto’s best experiences are tied to the seasons. For those seeking a luxury vacation in Japan, Kyoto offers unrivaled access to Kyoto temples, tea ceremonies, and artisan experiences.

My Insider Tip: For travelers keen to use jet lag to their advantage, fly directly to Osaka rather than Tokyo. From Osaka, Kyoto is just a 15-minute bullet train ride away, so you can stroll around the temples and gardens of Kyoto before the crowds arrive.

Where to Stay in Kyoto

There’s no shortage of exceptional accommodations in temple-filled Kyoto. It’s all about the type of experience you’re after.

From luxury ryokans (Japanese inns) in Kyoto with private onsens to ultra-modern hotels like Aman Kyoto, accommodations cater to every type and style of traveler. Our travel planners recommend boutique stays like The SOWAKA Hotel for vacationers and honeymooners, and upscale retreats for corporate travel planners arranging executive workshops. A couple of CIRE recommendations are:

Aman Kyoto: A hidden forest sanctuary on the city’s edge, Aman Kyoto is an ultra-luxury resort offering Zen-like tranquility and refined minimalist design. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a hotel with unparalleled service that feels totally secluded.

The SOWAKA Hotel: My Kyoto go-to! Situated steps from the ancient streets, and with only 23 individually designed rooms and a magnificent culinary program, The SOWAKA combines guest house vibes with tranquility and calm.

The Best of Kyoto

Kyoto, once Japan’s imperial capital, is a city filled with centuries-old temples and meticulously raked sand gardens. Here are a few of CIRE’s must-sees:

Fushimi Inari Shrine: Walk through thousands of bright red torii gates that snake up the forested mountain behind this sacred Shinto site.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: Towering stalks of bamboo create one of the most photogenic natural settings in Kyoto—an Instagrammable moment if there ever was one.

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion): This Zen temple is covered in gold leaf, and its reflection is mirrored in a serene pond, making the Golden Pavilion one of Kyoto’s most popular temples.

The Philosopher’s Path: Follow a peaceful stone walkway along a cherry tree-lined canal to contemplate life… or dinner. The Philosopher’s Path is just the place for a meditative stroll.

Nishiki Market: Known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” this bustling, narrow market street is packed with local delicacies. It specializes in all things food-related, from pickled vegetables to matcha sweets, knives, cookware, and of course, sushi.

Kyoto Cuisine

Dining in Kyoto is less about bold flavors and more about subtlety, seasonality, and presentation. Kyoto is the birthplace of the traditional Japanese cuisine known as kaiseki. This multi-course dining experience strikes a balance of tastes, textures, and beauty by utilizing hyper-local, seasonal ingredients.

Delicate bites of bamboo shoots grace the tables in spring. Yuba (tofu skin) and freshwater river fish like ayu are grilled to perfection. Matcha is woven into sweets, noodles, and even savory dishes, thanks to Kyoto’s long connection with Uji, Japan’s premier tea-growing region. The bottom line? Try everything!

My Insider Tip: Book a private tea ceremony or stay in a luxury ryokan with tatami floors, rock gardens, and onsens (natural hot spring baths). These experiences offer valuable insights into traditional Japanese life.

The Osaka Travel Edit: Japan’s Food Capital

On the country’s main island of Honshu and just a short train ride from Kyoto, Osaka, Japan is the spirited “Second City,” and a dynamic stop on any curated Japan itinerary. Known for its vibrant food scene, travelers come for the food—this is the birthplace of takoyaki (octopus balls, yes, try them!) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) and renowned for Osaka street food—but stay for the lively districts, such as Dotonbori, and the historic Osaka Castle.

Spring brings cherry blossoms to the city’s riverside parks, while autumn is a spectacular time to see the colorful foliage. Travel to Osaka to experience its distinct personality—more casual, louder, and more playful than Tokyo or Kyoto—a dynamic blend of modern energy and old-world charm.

Where to Stay in Osaka

Osaka accommodations reflect the city’s energetic personality. From luxury hotels with skyline views to boutique stays, there’s something in Osaka for every kind of traveler, especially those drawn to Osaka’s food scene. Two of my top choice hotels sit steps from the city’s best restaurants, markets, and izakayas (Japanese pubs). Both are excellent bases for exclusive Osaka food tours and corporate events.

Waldorf Astoria Osaka: Newly opened, this ultra-luxury hotel combines Art Deco glamour and modern sophistication. Its central location places guests steps from Dotonbori and Kuromon Market, which are two of the city’s liveliest hubs for street food and late-night bites.

My Pick, The W Osaka: A great location and a great price! The always-trending W Osaka is nestled in the heart of Shinsaibashi. It blends Japan’s cultural heritage with bold contemporary designs, not to mention boundless luxury.

The Best of Osaka

Since Osaka is Japan’s food-loving city, its bold personality and street-side energy can be discovered in many vibrant neighborhoods. Travelers will delight in its mix of modern attractions, historic landmarks, and some of the best bites in the country.

Shinsekai: A retro district with a nostalgic vibe, Shinsekai is renowned for its hearty street fare, particularly kushikatsu —deep-fried skewers best enjoyed with a cold brew and a view of Tsutenkaku Tower.

Tsutenkaku Tower: This 100-meter-tall steel tower is the defining landmark of Osaka. While not considered tall by modern-day standards, head to the top on a clear day for city views.

Kuromon Ichiba Market: A popular food market offering fresh seafood, wagyu skewers, and local specialties in a bustling atmosphere.

Osaka Castle: A must for history lovers and corporate group tours! This striking historical landmark, rich in samurai-era history, is surrounded by a moat and cherry trees.

Umeda Sky Building’s Floating Garden Observatory: Panoramic city views rule at this futuristic rooftop in the heart of the city.

TeamLab Botanical Garden Osaka: TeamLab isn’t just for Tokyo travelers! Visit this immersive nighttime art installation, which blends digital light with natural elements in Nagai Park. Prepare your senses to be overwhelmed.

Osaka Cuisine

If Kyoto is elegant and restrained, Osaka is loud and unapologetic. Try it all— from sizzling street-side takoyaki to refined kaiseki cuisine. Be sure to try the street food in Dotonbori, where you can dine under the glow of bright neon signs. All quintessentially Osaka!

My Insider Tip: Book a table at a hidden Michelin-recommended izakaya or take a nighttime Osaka food tour with a local guide. Osaka comes alive after dark. Your taste buds will thank you.

Eclectic and creative, Osaka is a foodie paradise. If you love street food and cold beer, consider tacking on an extra day… or two!

The Nara Travel Edit: Sacred Serenity

Just a short train ride from Kyoto, Nara is home to sacred deer and ancient temples, making it perfect for a Nara day trip. It was Japan’s first permanent capital city, and its spiritual significance is palpable. The Great Buddha at Todai-ji Temple and the lantern-lit Kasuga Taisha Shrine are both awe-inspiring sights.

A calmer, more compact alternative to Tokyo, Nara offers an atmospheric experience rich in natural beauty—ideal for corporate retreats or peaceful escapes from Tokyo. With fewer crowds, walkable historic districts, and a sense of peacefulness that’s hard to find in most major cities, Nara visitors will find themselves slowing down and connecting with the traditions of old Japan.

Where to Stay in Nara

Nara offers a range of accommodations that reflect the city’s quiet charm and cultural roots. From historic landmarks to modern escapes, each hotel provides a unique way to experience Nara. These two CIRE-client favorites are sure to impress.

Nara Hotel: A grand property that has hosted royalty, celebrities, and dignitaries since its opening in 1909. Overlooking Nara Park, this hillside Western-style hotel features 129 rooms and radiates early 20th-century charm with antique furnishings, polished wood interiors, and a sense of history that transports guests to another era.

Shisui, A Luxury Collection Hotel: On the western edge of Nara Park and adjacent to Yoshikien Garden, this beautiful hotel was designed by renowned Japanese architect Kengo Kuma. With 43 rooms, Shisui features traditional Taishō-era influences combined with contemporary luxury, offering suites that include private open-air baths.

The Best of Nara

Nara’s peaceful atmosphere and compact layout make it perfect for exploring on foot. From monumental temples to charming neighborhoods, slow down and discover its quiet magic. Here are a few of my and CIRE travel planners’ must-visit spots:

Tōdai-ji Temple and Daibutsu (Great Buddha): Home to one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in the world, this iconic temple is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of Nara’s spiritual heritage.

Nara Deer Park: Over 1,000 friendly, free-roaming deer greet visitors in this centrally located park. In Japan, the famous Nara deer are considered sacred messengers of the gods.

Kasuga Taisha Shrine: A serene, lantern-lit Shinto shrine nestled in the forest, famous for its hundreds of stone and bronze lanterns.

Isuien Garden: This peaceful, meticulously landscaped garden has ponds, tea houses, and scenic views of Todai-ji’s rooftop in the distance.

Naramachi: A preserved merchant district filled with narrow lanes, historic wooden homes, craft shops, and traditional cafés that evoke the old-world charm of Japan. A must-visit for corporate and leisure travelers seeking souvenirs!

Mochi-Pounding at Nakatanidou: Watch a high-speed demonstration of mochi (rice cake) pounding, followed by a taste of this savory treat—a wonderful way to catch a glimpse of this ancient ritual.

My Insider Tip: Take advantage of any lingering jet lag and head out early to enjoy the parks and temples before the crowds. Let me or one of CIRE’s travel experts help organize a private guide who can add historical context to bring Nara to life.

Nara Cuisine

Nara’s cuisine is rooted in its cultural heritage, offering flavors that are both subtle and seasonal. One of the region’s specialties is kakinoha-zushi, a type of pressed sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves. Created to preserve fish before the invention of refrigeration, these delicate bites, typically topped with mackerel or salmon, are now a local treat found in specialty shops and even in train stations.

The Hiroshima and Miyajima Island Travel Edit: History Meets Beauty

Hiroshima is a city that transformed tragedy into a message of optimism and renewal. While a visit to the Peace Memorial Park and Museum is sobering, it’s a truly moving reflection on the events of 1945 and the city’s commitment to a world without nuclear weapons. Hiroshima is also a vibrant, modern city with leafy boulevards, delicious local cuisine, and a welcoming spirit.

Just a short ferry ride away, combine a visit to Hiroshima with Miyajima Island. Its floating torii gate at Itsukushima Shrine is a must-see for any travel guide to Japan! Like Nara, Miyajima also features friendly, free-roaming deer and numerous forest trails.

Where to Stay in Hiroshima and Miyajima Island

Hiroshima and nearby Miyajima Island offer a wide range of accommodations, from stylish urban hotels to traditional ryokans. In Hiroshima City, there are sleek, design-forward hotels that are ideal for exploring museums and nightlife. Miyajima Island offers peaceful inns surrounded by nature and cultural landmarks.

CIRE’s corporate and leisure travel planners often recommend:

Azumi Setoda: (Hiroshima, Setoda, Ikuchijima Island) A beautifully restored luxury ryokan with just a handful of rooms, located in a quiet port town on the Seto Inland Sea. It blends Japanese tradition with contemporary design in a pretty and serene setting.

Iwaso Ryokan: (Miyajima Island) A historic ryokan tucked into a forest near Itsukushima Shrine, offering traditional tatami rooms, open-air onsen baths, and classic kaiseki dining in a nature-rich setting.

The Best Things to Do in Hiroshima and Miyajima Island

Hiroshima and Miyajima offer a potent mix of remembrance, resilience, and natural beauty. In Hiroshima, travelers can explore World War II memorials alongside traditional Japanese gardens. A short ferry ride away, Miyajima Island adds a spiritual dimension to the adventure. Our Hiroshima and Miyajimi Island travel guide includes:

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and Park: Not to be missed, this moving museum and open green space commemorates the victims of the atomic bombing.

Atomic Bomb Dome (Genbaku Dome): Preserved in its ruined state, this haunting structure stands as a symbol of Hiroshima’s tragic past and enduring passion for peace.

Hiroshima Castle: A reconstructed 16th-century castle surrounded by a moat and park, offering detailed insights into Hiroshima’s pre-war history.

Miyajima Island’s Itsukushima Shrine: Famous for its floating torii gate, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a striking blend of nature and traditional Shinto architecture.

Mount Misen Hiking Trails: Scenic forest paths lead to panoramic views from the island’s highest peak, with wildlife and ancient temples along the way.

Hiroshima and Miyajima Island Cuisine

Hiroshima’s local cuisine is hearty and full of flavor. The city’s most famous dish is Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, a savory pancake layered with cabbage, noodles, pork, and egg, then topped with a sweet sauce, often cooked on a griddle right in front of guests.

Miyajima Island is known for fresh oysters, served grilled, raw, or in rice bowls. Another favorite is anago-meshi, grilled sea eel served over rice. For something sweet, try momiji manju, maple leaf-shaped cakes filled with red bean paste, custard, or matcha, a beloved treat of the area.

My Insider Tip: Stay in a boutique hotel by the waterfront in Hiroshima, then take a private ferry to Miyajima for a day of temples, fresh oysters, and panoramic hikes. Perfect for a luxury vacation in Japan that combines culture, cuisine, and reflection.

The Nikkō Travel Edit: Nature and Spirituality

The town of Nikkō sits near the entrance to Nikkō National Park and has long been the center of Shinto and Buddhist mountain worship, dating back to even before the construction of Tōshōgu Shrine in the 1600s. Nikkō and its lush, vegetative surroundings offer travelers to Japan a diverse array of attractions, including mountains, lakes, waterfalls, and hot springs. Watch out for playful, wild monkeys while you hike Nikkō’s winding trails.

When is the best time to visit Nikkō? It is especially appealing due to its seasonal beauty. Spring brings cherry blossoms and vivid greenery to the temple paths and riverside walks. Summer is ideal for escaping the heat, with shaded trails and cool mountain lakes. Autumn is perhaps Nikkō’s most famous season, when vibrant fall foliage transforms the park into a fiery landscape of red and gold. In winter, snow blankets the shrines and forests in silence. Nikkō is truly a year-round escape into Japan’s natural heart.

My Insider Tip: If you’re looking for fewer crowds, head to Nikkō for a ski trip to Japan. It’s family-friendly and offers snow sports well beyond the slopes.

Where to Stay in Nikkō

The Nikkō area offers a diverse range of vacation accommodations. Choose from luxurious lakeside resorts to contemporary ryokans or historic hotels, some tucked away in the lush landscapes surrounding Nikkō National Park.

CIRE’s corporate and leisure travel planners recommend:

Kinugawa Keisui: This design-focused ryokan is situated along the Kinugawa River, offering a calm and modern retreat surrounded by nature. Its rooms range from standard accommodations to suites with open-air baths. With the property’s proximity to both the river and the nearby hot springs, the overall vibe is tranquil and minimalistic.

My Pick, The Ritz-Carlton, Nikkō: This luxurious lakeside resort is set on the shores of Lake Chuzenji and has sweeping views of Mount Nantai. With 94 spacious rooms and suites, it channels quiet sophistication. The hotel features an onsen, refined dining, and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for relaxation after exploring nearby sites.

My Insider Tip: With their excellent concierge and exceptional food, the Ritz-Carlton Nikkō takes the thought out of everything. My favorite spot? Definitely the on-site onsen!

The Best of Things to Do in Nikkō

Nikkō has it all for business and luxury travelers—verdant forests, cascading waterfalls, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and serene lakes that offer an escape from the heat. Whether you visit for the dramatic autumn colors, the misty summer hikes, or the quiet beauty of snow-covered shrines, Nikkō’s magic changes with the season.

CIRE’s corporate and leisure travel planners suggest:

Rinnō‑ji Temple: A venerable Buddhist complex founded in the 8th century, housing the golden Buddhist Trinity statues and offering a calming cultural oasis.

Tōshōgū Shrine: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the lavish mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder and first shōgun of the Tokugawa shogunate, which ruled from 1603 until 1868. It’s adorned with elaborate carvings and extravagant gold-leaf embellishments.

Shinkyō Bridge: A striking vermilion-lacquered bridge arching over the Daiya River, Shinkyō Bridge marks the sacred entrance to Nikkō’s temple district.

Kirisui Falls: A majestic two-tiered waterfall tucked into lush summer foliage—an ideal spot for forest bathing and a picnic.

Lake Chūzenji and Yumoto Onsen: During the winter, Lake Chūzenji’s icy stillness and Yumoto Onsen’s steaming baths are surrounded by winter’s hush, drawing visitors seeking a quiet, scenic atmosphere.

SPACIA X: SPACIA X is no ordinary train—it’s a groundbreaking travel adventure. The sleek, six-car limited express railway takes travelers from Tokyo to Nikkō in just two hours. It’s both eco-friendly and design-forward, with unique touches like hexagonal windows reminiscent of traditional kumiko woodwork.

Once inside, passengers can choose from six seat classes ranging from standard to private, plus a café lounge serving local craft beer and Nikkō coffee. Popular opinion says it has ruined passengers for all other trains. Elevate your journey to Nikkō with a ride on SPACIA X.

Nikkō Cuisine

Nikkō’s cuisine is rooted in its natural surroundings. The region is known for locally brewed sake, crafted from mountain spring water, and farm-to-table dining that features seasonal vegetables, freshwater fish, and mountain herbs. A standout specialty is yuba (tofu skin), a staple of traditional Buddhist cuisine, served in soups or as part of elegant kaiseki meals. Don’t miss the rich, creamy Hokkaido milk soft serve, a popular sweet often sold near shrines.

My Insider Tip: Book a ski-in/ski-out chalet for winter or go glamping in the summer months with private guides for hiking and biking. Need help creating the ultimate Nikkō travel itinerary? As always, our travel planners can handle it. 

Business and Luxury Travel Guide to Japan: My Top Tips and Tricks

Before planning a trip to The Land of the Rising Sun, it helps to know a few key cultural aspects of traveling in Japan. Here are a few tips and tricks I always share with CIRE clients before they travel to Japan:

No tipping: I mean it. No tipping at all. Tipping in Japan can be considered awkward or even impolite. Throughout Japan, you’ll find that exceptional service is standard.

Yen is king: Despite Japan’s tech-forward image, many establishments prefer yen, especially for small purchases. And never try to pay with American dollars.

Shoes off: Be prepared to remove your shoes in homes, temples, some restaurants, and ryokans—so wear your best socks!

Public etiquette: Keep voices low on public transportation. Phone calls on trains are frowned upon, as is eating while walking.

Language barrier: English isn’t universally spoken in Japan. Travel with a phrasebook or download a language app to help with communication. Most hotels provide a meishi (business card) with a detailed map, so be sure to take one with you when you start a day of sightseeing.

Transportation: Trains and subways run like clockwork. The Japan Rail Pass is an excellent option for multi-city trips. Let CIRE Travel’s planners handle all your bookings, so your trips are as seamless as the trains.

My Insider Tip: Consider using a luggage forwarding service when traveling around Japan. It’s a great way to travel light, and it’s super-efficient! Whether sending your bulky ski equipment to Nikkō or getting all your souvenirs from Kyoto to Hiroshima, you’ll never feel weighed down by excess luggage.

Curated: This Travel Guide to Japan is Just the Beginning

Japan travel is more than a destination—it’s an experience that lingers long after touchdown. With its blend of ancient serenity and modern innovation, it deserves to be explored thoughtfully and luxuriously. Let CIRE’s business or leisure travel planners craft your personalized Japanese itinerary, ensuring that every train is booked, every onsen is waiting, and no detail, no matter how small, is overlooked.

Tokyo may open the door to Japan, but it’s the places beyond the capital that will make you fall in love. No wonder it’s topping everyone’s travel wishlists right now. Take it from me: learn by doing and learn by going. Ready to start planning? Let’s talk!

FAQs: Japan Travel Guide

Q: What are the best places to visit in Japan beyond Tokyo?

A: Our curated Japan travel guide highlights Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Hiroshima and Miyajima, and Nikkō—perfect destinations for cultural exploration, Japan culinary tours, and luxury vacations in Japan.

Q: Does CIRE Travel plan luxury vacations to Japan?

A: Yes. CIRE Travel specializes in luxury vacation planning for Japan, including recommendations for stays at exclusive ryokans, private guided tours, and curated itineraries across Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Hiroshima and Miyajima, Nikkō and beyond.

Q: Can CIRE Travel arrange business travel or corporate retreats to Japan?

A: Absolutely. Our corporate travel planners manage executive trips, incentive travel, and seamless group itineraries to Japan, including transportation, accommodations, and event coordination.

Q: When is the best time to visit Japan for a luxury vacation?

A: Japan is stunning year-round, but spring for the cherry blossoms and fall for the maple leaves are the most popular seasons for luxury vacations, especially in Kyoto and Nikkō.

Q: Does CIRE Travel plan curated Japan itineraries for first-time travelers to Japan?

A: Yes. Our travel planners create hyper-curated Japan itineraries tailored to first-time visitors, ensuring seamless travel between destinations and hidden gems beyond Tokyo.

CIRE Travel is a full-service travel agency headquartered in New York, NY with offices in Kennebunkport, ME, Washington DC, Boston, MA, Miami, FL, Los Angeles, CA, Philadelphia, PA, Toronto, ON, Bogota, Colombia, Madrid, Spain, London, UK, Mexico City, Mexico, and Vancouver, BC.  Our expert corporate travel planners, honeymoon travel agents, and luxury travel planners support clients across the country and around the world.