The world has to give it to the Japanese for having to face the terrible consequences of the earthquake, colossal tsunamis and widespread fear caused by the rising radiation levels from damaged nuclear power plants in Northern Japan. Even if this is the case, life is pretty much back to normal in other areas.  Contrary to what a lot of people think, there are still a number of cities in Japan that can still be considered for travel.

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Here are some of the places in Japan that are safe for tourists to visit and explore.

Kyoto

Kyoto is not as modernized as the other known cities in Japan.  Still, it is known for its numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, over a thousand Buddhist temples, and close to 500 Shinto Shrines that are offered as part of package tours by the different hotels in Kyoto. This city is overflowing with olden Japanese culture that gentle geishas are still a common sight on the streets.  In order to make the most out of the trip, visitors must meticulously explore the city in order to unravel Kyoto’s magic as touristy sights are quite hidden from plain sight.

A famous tourist attraction in Kyoto is the Byodoin Temple, a Buddhist Temple in the city of Uji.  It is listed as an UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994 as part of the “Historic Monuments in Ancient Kyoto.”   The most recognized part of the temple is the Phoenix Hall.  It is the only remaining original part within the complex.  Japan memorializes the cultural connotation of the temple by printing its image on the face of a 10 Yen coin.

Nagoya

Nagoya is one of the five most populous urban areas in Japan.  The city attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world because of its rich roster of attractions that range from parks, gardens, shrines, museums, and theatres.

A notable landmark to visit is the Nagoya Castle.  Its interiors are converted into a contemporary museum that exhibits the castle’s colourful history.  It is also considered a prime spot during the season of Cherry Blossoms.

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Osaka

When it comes to overflowing Japanese history and culture, Osaka is a city that never disappoints.  It has the perfect combination of old Japan set against a backdrop of modernization which the country is known for.  This city is also perfect for night outs with friends when the alleyways come alive.  At this time, vivacious tourists also head to the streets in order to sample scrumptious food and experience lively entertainment.

There are tons to see in Osaka.  One of the famous ones would have to be the Osaka Aquarium most especially since it is one of the largest aquariums in the world.  It boasts of a total of 15 water tanks that display close to 600 species of marine animals from jellyfish, to dolphins, and penguins to name a few.  But the two whale sharks on exhibit are the most loved by the public.

Okinawa

Okinawa is Japan’s southernmost prefecture.  It is made up of multiple small islands that are clustered into 3 major groups namely Okinawa Islands, Miyako Islands, and Yaeyama Islands.

Throngs of tourists visit Okinawa each year for the sun, beaches, and even a bit of jungle. It offers the total beach bumming experience that includes palm trees, white sand, glistening waters and adrenalin pumping water sports.

Emerald Beach is definitely worthy of a visit.  It is a Y-shaped coral sand beach and locals claim that it is the only beach in Japan that is housed within a lagoon.  It is separated into smaller beaches that can accommodate thousands of people at a time.

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Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan’s capital, is also safe for travel.  Both the Narita and Haneda airports are already operating normally as well as the train and subway systems to aid travelers on the way to their accommodations in Tokyo. Almost all the well-liked touristic sights have re-started regular operations but with expected energy saving programmes that sometimes lead to minimized lighting for some establishments.

There are a lot of places to see in Tokyo but no trip is complete without visiting Japan’s very own Disneyland.  It owns the distinction of being the very first Disneyland to be built outside of the US.  Visitors can enjoy a total of 7 themed sections namely the Adventureland, Critter Country, Fantasyland, Mickey’s Toontown, Tomorrowland, Westernland, and World Bazaar.

Posted in Attractions, Japan

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