DESTINATION GUIDES
Top Cities to Visit in Japan That Aren’t Tokyo
Over four months sailing around southern Japan on a cruise ship, I had the chance to visit these cities multiple times and truly get to know what makes each one special. From the powerful history preserved in Hiroshima to the vibrant street food culture of Osaka, and from the peaceful beaches of Okinawa to the volcanic landscapes of Kagoshima, these cities offer a wide range of experiences that show Japan’s rich diversity. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, local cuisine, or unique cultural traditions, you’ll find plenty to explore here. This list highlights the top cities to visit in Japan that reveal the country’s character beyond the usual tourist routes.
Paradise Islands of Japan: Okinawa, Ishigaki & Miyakojima
Japan has way more to offer than just bustling cities, culture and incredible food. The country is made up of over 6,000 islands and is surrounded by some of the clearest water in the world. Whilst travelling and working on a cruise ship in 2017, one of our main routes was sailing to three islands in the East China Sea between Taiwan and Japan's mainland. Okinawa, Miyakojima and Ishigaki are all in the Okinawa Prefecture.
48 Photos to Inspire You to Visit Japan
Japan is a country that I never thought I’d ever visit. Especially in my early twenties. During my time working on a cruise ship, I was lucky enough to visit many cities and hidden gems within the country. Including Nagasaki, Osaka, Fukuoka, Hiroshima, Kagoshima, Kobe and the Okinawa Islands.