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.

Hiroshima

Hiroshima is best known for its tragic history, centred around the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, which document the atomic bombing of 1945. The nearby A-Bomb Dome is a preserved ruin and part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Beyond this, the city offers peaceful green spaces, including Shukkeien Garden and Hiroshima Castle grounds. Food is a highlight, especially the local style of okonomiyaki — a layered savoury pancake cooked on a hotplate. Hiroshima’s streetcar network makes getting around easy. A short ferry ride takes you to Miyajima Island, home to Itsukushima Shrine and its famous floating torii gate. The island also has walking trails and wild deer. Hiroshima works well as a two-night stop on a western Japan itinerary.

Osaka

Osaka is famous for its vibrant atmosphere, historic landmarks, and street food culture. The Dotonbori district buzzes with neon lights and food stalls serving takoyaki and okonomiyaki. Osaka Castle is a large park and museum popular with visitors. Umeda has shopping malls and the Floating Garden Observatory, which offers panoramic city views. The Tempozan Ferris Wheel near the bay provides great views of the city and Osaka Bay. Shinsekai is a retro neighbourhood with affordable eateries and a relaxed vibe. The city’s extensive train network makes day trips to Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe easy.

Nagasaki

Nagasaki’s unique history as a foreign trading port is visible in its architecture and culture. Dejima Island was a Dutch trading post, and Glover Garden features Western-style homes overlooking the bay. The Atomic Bomb Museum and Peace Park tell the story of 1945 with fewer crowds than Hiroshima. The city’s hills provide scenic views, especially from Mount Inasa at night. Chinatown offers regional dishes like champon noodles and fresh seafood. Nagasaki is compact and easy to explore in two days, with a mix of history and coastal scenery.

Kagoshima

Kagoshima lies opposite the active volcano Sakurajima, which is visible from many parts of the city. Ferries run regularly to the volcano, where visitors can explore lava fields and hot springs. The city itself has the samurai-era Sengan-en Garden and nearby Chiran samurai district. Kagoshima is known for its shōchū spirit and black pork dishes. The subtropical climate means mild winters and hot summers. It’s quieter than larger cities and offers a relaxed atmosphere, often visited as part of a southern Kyushu itinerary.

Fukuoka

Fukuoka is Kyushu’s largest city, combining modern urban life with traditional culture. It is known for Hakata ramen, served in evening yatai street food stalls around Nakasu and Tenjin. The city offers green spaces like Ohori Park and historic sites such as Fukuoka Castle ruins. Canal City is a major shopping and entertainment complex. Nearby Nokonoshima Island and Momochi Beach provide outdoor options. Fukuoka’s good transport links make it a practical base for exploring northern Kyushu over two to three days.

Miyazaki

Miyazaki is a coastal city known for its warm climate, beaches, and natural attractions. Aoshima Island features a Shinto shrine surrounded by unusual rock formations called the Devil’s Washboard. Inland, Takachiho Gorge offers walking trails along a scenic river with waterfalls. The area is less crowded than other parts of Kyushu and is popular for fresh seafood, wagyu beef, and tropical fruits. Another notable site is Sun Messe Nichinan, an outdoor park with large Moai statues modelled after those on Easter Island. Miyazaki’s slower pace and outdoor focus make it suitable for travellers seeking calm and nature.

Beppu

Beppu is famous for its hot springs and geothermal activity, including the “Hells of Beppu” — a series of colourful hot springs for viewing only. The city has numerous onsen baths, including sand and mud baths. The Beppu Ropeway ascends Mount Tsurumi, providing panoramic views and hiking trails. Beppu’s compact centre is easy to explore on foot and often paired with a visit to nearby Yufuin, another hot spring town. It’s a popular destination for relaxation and experiencing Japan’s bathing culture.

Kobe

Kobe is a port city known worldwide for its Kobe beef and scenic setting between mountains and the sea. The Kitano district showcases Western-style houses from the city’s early foreign settlers. Meriken Park on the waterfront has open spaces and art installations. Mount Rokko offers hiking and panoramic views reachable by cable car. The Nada district has sake breweries, and Chinatown is lively with regional food. Nearby Arima Onsen is a historic hot spring town. Kobe is quieter and smaller than Osaka, ideal for a day trip or short stay.

Okinawa

Okinawa is a subtropical island group with a distinct culture influenced by the Ryukyu Kingdom and American presence. Naha, the main city, features Shuri Castle and Kokusai Dori, a bustling street known for its shops, restaurants, and nightlife. The islands are famous for their beaches, coral reefs, and water activities like snorkeling and diving, especially around Zamami and Ishigaki. Okinawan cuisine includes soba noodles and goya champuru. The pace is slower than mainland Japan, making it a popular destination for relaxation and outdoor adventure. Travel between islands is by ferry or short flights.