Guest post byYogi and Suchna*
Japanese cities are full of ancient temples and shrines, with amazing sculptures surrounded by breathtaking natural spaces. There is so much for you to see on a backpacking trip that you may be overwhelmed. That’s why we’ve made this itinerary so you’ll see all the very best things and find hotels in Tokyo Japan.
In Tokyo
With a population of more than 125 million, and 80 percent of its land in mountains areas, urban areas are crowded. And the busiest city of all is Tokyo, the capital of this island nation. It is a metropolitan city, surrounded by mountains and hills.
Meiji Shrine
Meiji Shrine is situated in the Shibuya, Tokyo. It is a marvelous example of Japanese art, and is a Shinto shrine which is dedicated to the deified souls of Emperor Meiji and his beloved Empress Shoken.
Imperial Palace
The Imperial Palace is where the emperor of Japan lives. The palace consists of a huge park-like region located in the Chiyoda ward of Tokyo.
Ueno Zoo
Ueno Zoo is Japan’s oldest zoo (opened in 1882) with more than 2600 animals and 464 different species. The zoo is situated in Taitō.
In Kyoto
This is Japan’s old capital and one of the oldest cities in the world. The city consists of marvelous ancient sculptures including temples, shrines, museums as well as Nijo Castle.
Kiyomizu-dera
Kiyomizu-dera is a picturesque historical Buddhist temple and is also a part of Ancient Kyoto UNESCO World Heritage site. It was founded in 778 AD and is one of Kyoto’s must-see attractions.
Shimogamo Shrine
Shimogamo Shrine is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful Shinto Shrines. The Shrine was founded in 6th century and dedicated to Tamayori-hime, a goddess in Japanese mythology.
Nijō Castle
Nijō Castle is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site which is located in the central part of Kyoto City. It was built in 1603 and was the residence of the first Tokugawa Shogun, Ieyasu.
In Osaka
Osaka is the commercial center as well as the largest port city in Japan. The city is surrounded by parks with peach, plum and cherry-blossom trees which makes it a wonderful spring destination.
Osaka Castle
With amazing historical significance, Osaka Castle is one of the most popular locations in Chūō-ku. It was founded in 16th century and played a major role in unification of Japan.
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukanis one of the largest in the world. It is located in the ward of Minato in Osaka.
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
With a message of peace, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is dedicated to the victims of the first world war atomic bomb attack.
Tōdai-ji
Tōdai-jiwell is a Buddhist Temple Complex of Seven Great Temples located in 8th century capital city of Nara. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was created in 728 AD.
Kanazawa Castle
With outstanding architectural style, Kanazawa Castle is one of a well-restored castle located in the historic town of Kanazawa.
*Yogi and Suchna believe in taking the road less travelled and stumbling upon some hidden gems along the way! For over a decade, they’ve mapped their way across various continents, sniffed out unusual routes, discovered new flavours and stayed at quirky hostels. TheBackpackerCo is their expression of soul travel. You can catch up with them at TheBackpackerCo – The Backpacking Eastern Europe Trip Experts.