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Where is Japan Located? Japan Location on Map
Japan is an island country located in East Asia. It's situated in the Pacific Ocean, off the northeastern coast of the Asian mainland. It lies in the Pacific Ocean, to the east of China, Korea, and Russia.
On a world map, you’ll spot Japan as a long, narrow archipelago made up of four main islands - Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Shikoku - plus thousands of smaller ones. It stretches from the cool, snowy north (Hokkaido) to tropical beaches in the south (Okinawa).
Thanks to its location, Japan is a great mix of natural beauty, distinct seasons, and rich cultural diversity, making it an exciting and easily accessible destination for travelers from Asia, North America, and beyond.
Japan Map with Attractions - Top Japan Attractions on Map
Japan is a family-friendly travel destination. To help you better understand the country's top tourist spots, we've divided Japan into 9 popular regions.
On the map, you can see these 9 regions stretching from north to south, along with the names of the most famous attractions in each one.
Tokyo Tourist Attractions | Things to Do & Places to Visit in Tokyo
Now, let's zoom in on the two regions most first-time visitors head to: the Kansai region and the Kanto region.
Kanto Region (Tokyo, Yokohama, and Surroundings)
- Tokyo Skytree: Soar above the city for breathtaking views.
- Shibuya Crossing: Experience the iconic pedestrian scramble.
- Senso-ji Temple: Explore this historic temple and the bustling Nakamise shopping street.
- Meiji Shrine: Find peace and tranquility in this serene sanctuary.
- Mount Fuji: A majestic volcano and Japan's iconic symbol.
- Hakone: Enjoy hot springs, stunning scenery, and the Hakone Ropeway.
- Yokohama Landmark Tower: Soar above Yokohama for panoramic views.
Kansai Region (Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Kobe)
- Kiyomizu-dera Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning views.
- Fushimi Inari-Taisha Shrine: Immerse yourself in the enchanting red torii gates.
- Osaka Castle: Explore this historic castle and its surrounding park.
- Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion): Admire the stunning golden temple.
- Arashiyama Bamboo Forest: Experience tranquility amidst nature.
- Gion District, Kyoto: Witness the charm of traditional Kyoto.
- Nara Park: Encounter friendly deer and visit Todai-ji Temple.
- Kobe Beef: Indulge in world-renowned wagyu beef.
Japan Map with Major Cities
Japan is not a big country, but there are many interesting destinations worth exploring. Here are some of the major cities you’ll find on a Japan map, each offering something unique for travelers:
Major Metropolitan Areas
- Tokyo: The capital and largest city, offering a blend of tradition and modernity.
- Osaka: Known for its lively atmosphere, delicious food, and historical landmarks.
- Nagoya: A major industrial city with a rich cultural heritage.
- Yokohama: A port city with a modern skyline and diverse attractions.
- Kobe: Renowned for its beef, beautiful harbor, and international atmosphere.
- Sapporo: The capital of Hokkaido, offering a taste of northern Japan's culture and nature.
- Fukuoka: A bustling city with a strong regional identity and delicious food.
Cultural and Historical Cities
- Kyoto: The ancient capital, famous for its temples, shrines, and traditional architecture.
- Nara: Home to historical landmarks like Todai-ji Temple and Nara Park.
- Kanazawa: Known for its well-preserved samurai district and beautiful gardens.
- Hiroshima: A city of peace and remembrance, with the Peace Memorial Park.
These are just a few of the many fascinating cities Japan has to offer. Each has its own unique charm and attractions, making it a diverse and captivating country to explore.
Most Beautiful Places in Japan | Top 15 Places to Visit in Japan
Japan Map with Airports
Departure from overseas, you can fly to several popular tourist cities in Japan. Follow our Japan Map with airports to choose the city you will enter Japan from.
Narita International Airport (NRT):
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Location: Located in Narita, Chiba Prefecture, serving the Greater Tokyo Area.
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Note: One of the busiest airports in Japan handling a significant portion of international flights to and from Tokyo.
Haneda Airport (HND):
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Location: Situated in Ōta, Tokyo, and also serving the Greater Tokyo Area.
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Note: Haneda is known for its proximity to central Tokyo and is a major hub for domestic and international flights.
Kansai International Airport (KIX):
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Location: Located on an artificial island in Osaka Bay, serving the Kansai region.
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Note: One of the most important airports in western Japan, handling a large number of international flights.
Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO):
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Location: Situated on an artificial island in Ise Bay near Nagoya, serving the Chubu region.
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Note: A major international gateway serving central Japan and a hub for both domestic and international flights.
New Chitose Airport (CTS):
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Location: Serves Sapporo and is located in Chitose, Hokkaido.
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Note: The main airport in Hokkaido, handling both domestic and international flights.
These airports play a crucial role in connecting Japan to the rest of the world, facilitating travel and tourism to different regions of the country.
Japan Travel Map - Travel to Japan with Maps
Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka are the most popular cities for first-time visitors to Japan. A week-long trip can cover the highlights of these places. If you want to see more, like Mount Fuji or the ancient city of Nara, you'll need more time. Hiroshima is also a popular choice, with a start in Osaka.
Option 1: Enter in Tokyo, Departure in Osaka
- Day 1: Arrive in Tokyo.
- Day 2: Explore Tokyo - Visit Meiji Shrine, Shibuya Crossing, Asakusa (Senso-ji Temple, Nakamise Shopping Street, Tokyo Skytree from afar), Akihabara (optional: visit a manga cafe), Tsukiji Market (optional: try sushi).
- Day 3: Take the Shinkansen to Kyoto.
- Day 4: Explore Kyoto - Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Nijo Castle, have lunch at Nishiki Market, in the afternoon visit Gion, Yasaka Shrine, Sannenzaka, Kiyomizu-dera.
- Day 5: Kyoto (Fushimi Inari Taisha) - Nara (Todai-ji Temple, Kasuga Taisha, Nara Park, Mt. Wakakusa) - Osaka.
- Day 6: Explore Osaka - Osaka Castle, Ukiyo-e Museum, food tour in Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi, visit Minami (Namba), Shintennoji Temple, Shinsekai (external view).
- Day 7: Depart from Osaka.
Japan Itineraries 2025: 4 Days to 2 Weeks Japan Travel Itinerary
Option 2: Enter in Osaka, Departure in Tokyo
- Day 1: Arrive at Kansai International Airport, Osaka.
- Day 2: Explore Osaka - Visit Osaka Castle, Ukiyo-e Museum, food tour in Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi, Minami (Namba), Shintennoji Temple, Shinsekai (external view).
- Day 3: Osaka - Hiroshima - Osaka - Guided tour: take the Shinkansen to Hiroshima, visit the Atomic Bomb Dome, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, and if time allows, Miyajima Island (Itsukushima Shrine).
- Day 4: Osaka - Uji - Nara - Kyoto: Nara (Todai-ji Temple, Kasuga Taisha, Nara Park), Uji (Byodoin Temple, Uji Bridge, Matcha Street).
- Day 5: Kyoto - Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kiyomizu-dera, Sannenzaka, Yasaka Shrine, Gion & Hanamikoji. Optional activities: Kimono experience, Geisha performance, free time at Nishiki Market.
- Day 6: Kyoto - Morning in the city (Kinkaku-ji, Nijo Castle) and afternoon in Arashiyama (Sagano Scenic Railway, Bamboo Grove, Tenryu-ji Temple, Togetsukyo Bridge).
- Day 7: Take the Shinkansen to Tokyo.
- Day 8: Explore Tokyo - Visit Meiji Shrine, Shibuya Crossing, Asakusa (Senso-ji Temple, Nakamise Shopping Street, Tokyo Skytree from afar), Akihabara (optional: visit a manga cafe), Tsukiji Market (optional: try sushi).
- Day 9: Tokyo - Mt. Fuji - Hakone - Tokyo, Visit Mt. Fuji (5th Station, Lake Kawaguchi), Hakone (Owakudani Ropeway, Lake Ashi boat ride to see the floating torii gate) and return to Tokyo.
- Day 10: Depart from Tokyo.
Travel to Japan with Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT)
Immerse yourself in the iconic beauty and rich history of this fascinating country. With over a decade of experience crafting personalized travel experiences, AOT is the perfect partner to guide you through Japan's most captivating destinations, from the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto.
Useful Travel Guide: Japan Travel Guide, Japan Travel Tips & FAQs
Popular Destinations:
- Tokyo: Experience the vibrant energy of Japan's capital with its mix of modernity and tradition.
- Kyoto: Explore ancient temples and stunning gardens in Japan's cultural heart.
- Osaka: Enjoy this dynamic city's lively atmosphere and delicious street food.
- Mount Fuji: Witness the breathtaking beauty of Japan's iconic mountain.
- Hakone: Relax in hot springs and enjoy scenic views of Mount Fuji.
- Nara: Visit historic temples and mingle with friendly deer in ancient parks.
- Hiroshima: Learn about the poignant history and visit the Peace Memorial Park.
Tour Packages:
- Comprehensive Japan Tours: Japan Tours, Best Japan Tours, Japan Group Tours
- Theme Tours: Japan Cherry Blossoms Tour Packages, Japan Autumn Tour Packages, Japan Family Tour packages
- Combined Tours with Nearby Regions: Japan China Tours, Japan Korea Tours, Japan Thailand Cambodia Vietnam Tours
Contact us today to start planning your dream vacation, and let us take you on a journey through the Land of the Rising Sun, where traditional culture and modern life blend seamlessly.
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