17 Insta-worthy spots in Japan

The end of the year is one of the periods when your social media feed is filled with picturesque photos of popular destinations like Japan and Taiwan. If you’re heading to Japan or you’re already in Japan and don’t want to post cliché photos of the Tokyo Tower, Tokyo Skytree or Mount Fuji, what other famous spots will beautify your feed while making people jealous, I mean, letting people know you’re in Japan?

Here are some iconic and definitely Insta-worthy spots in Japan, sorted by the prefectures, to add to your checklist.

1. Shibuya Crossing (Tokyo)

This famous pedestrian scramble is an iconic symbol of Tokyo's bustling urban life. It is also often featured in Japanese dramas and movies, such as Kento Yamazaki’s Alice In Borderland.

2. Akihabara District (Tokyo)

Akihabara is perfect for capturing the vibrant and electric atmosphere of Tokyo's anime and electronics Mecca.

3. Odaiba Rainbow Bridge (Tokyo)

Looking for beautiful night scenery? The Odaiba Rainbow Bridge will not disappoint as it illuminates with the cityscape, including Tokyo Tower, in the background. The bridge also lights up in rainbow colours exclusively in December!

4. Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse (Kanagawa)

Situated on the waterfront, these iconic red-brick structures are renowned for their architectural charm that you don’t usually see in Japan.

5. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove (Kyoto)

The towering bamboo stalks create a unique and photogenic atmosphere. You can visit early in the morning to avoid crowds.

Kyoto City, Jojakkoji, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, & Tenryuji Tour

From S$98.70

6. Kinkaku-ji (Kyoto)

Also known as the Golden Pavilion, this Zen Buddhist temple is surrounded by stunning gardens and a reflective pond.

Fushimi Inari-taisha, Arashiyama, Kiyomizu-dera day tour from Osaka

From S$67.80

7. Fushimi Inari Taisha (Kyoto)

The iconic red torii gates create a mesmerising pathway through the forested hills. Early morning or late afternoon light enhances the beauty.

Fushimi Inari-taisha, Arashiyama, Kiyomizu-dera day tour from Osaka

From S$67.80

8. Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka (Kyoto)

You’ll pass by these charming streets lined with traditional Japanese architecture when you’re heading towards the famous Buddhist temple Kiyomizu-dera.

9. Nara Deer Park (Nara)

This is where you can Interact with the free-roaming deers in a picturesque park setting. It’s best to visit during spring to see the deer with sakura trees or during autumn to witness the deer with maple trees.

Arashiyama & Nara Todai-ji Day Tour from Osaka

From S$67.80

10. Himeji Castle (Hyogo)

Himeji Castle is one of Japan's most beautiful and well-preserved castles, especially during the sakura season or when illuminated at night.

Himeji Castle & Arima Onsen & Mt. Rokko Day Tour from Osaka

From S$81.19

11. Jigokudani Monkey Park (Nagano)

Seen photos of the adorable snow monkeys bathing in the natural hot springs? This is the place. You can capture them against a snow-covered backdrop during winter.

Snow Monkey and Shiga Kogen Roman Museum Trip from Tokyo with Lunch Buffet

S$138.19

12. Itsukushima Shrine (Hiroshima)

Nestled on the island of Miyajima near Hiroshima, Itsukushima Shrine is a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its “floating” torii gate.

1-Day Hiroshima & Miyajima Tour

From S$199.25

13. Ginzan Onsen (Yamagata)

Famous for its nostalgic ambience, vintage street lamps, and scenic footbridges, Ginzan Onsen transports you to a bygone era and embodies timeless charm with its well-preserved historic ryokans lining a tranquil river.

Ginzan Onsen & Zao's Frost-Covered Trees Tour from Tokyo / Sendai

From S$451.25

14. Shirakawa-go (Gifu)

Shirakawa-go is where you can capture the charm of traditional gassho-zukuri (wooden beams combined to form a steep thatched roof that resembles two hands together) farmhouses, particularly during winter when the roofs are covered in snow.

Shirakawago & Hida Takayama One Day Bus Tour from Nagoya

S$72.65

15. Shiroi Koibito Park (Hokkaido)

Shiroi Koibito Park is a delightful confectionery theme park centred around the iconic Shiroi Koibito cookies. Apart from exploring the chocolate factory and learning about the cookie-making process, the park is equipped with picturesque gardens in a whimsical atmosphere.

Jozankei Onsen, Otaru & Shiroi Koibito Park Day Tour from Sapporo

S$92.99

16. Otaru Canal (Hokkaido)

A picturesque waterway renowned for its romantic ambience, Otaru Canal is lined with historic warehouses, stone-built pathways, and vintage gas lamps, reflecting Otaru's maritime heritage.

Jozankei Onsen, Otaru & Shiroi Koibito Park Day Tour from Sapporo

S$92.99

17. Goryokaku Park (Hokkaido)

Goryokaku Park is a historical gem with a distinctive star-shaped fortress at its core. Sakura in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn enhance the charm.

2-day tour from Sapporo to Hakodate

From S$368.05

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