In Japan, traditional history and modern progress work together without any problems. If you want to experience Japan’s traditions and culture, visit the country’s historical sites and traditional towns. No matter if you visit ancient castles, peaceful temples, well-kept merchant areas or traditional ryokans, each corner in Japan tells a story about its past. These places are much more than tourist destinations, as they reveal how the country’s culture and architecture have changed over the centuries.
It is now simpler for UAE residents to embark on a journey to explore the history of Japan. Simple procedures and online tools have made getting a Japan Visa from UAE or from Sharjah much simpler. No matter if you want to feel like you’re in the past in Kyoto, discover why samurai were so important in Kanazawa or visit Takayama’s rich culture, Japan’s historical towns have an authentic cultural experience. In this post, we introduce the best Japanese cultural spots and traditional towns that give tourists a chiefly genuine and antique glimpse of the past.
Here is some historic Japan: best cultural sites and traditional towns to visit.
1. Kyoto is the main place where Japanese traditions start.
Many would say that Kyoto is the most well-known cultural place in Japan. Kyoto, formerly the capital of Japan, has more than 1,000 temples and shrines, among them the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), Fushimi Inari Taisha with its famous red gates and the calm Ryoan-ji Zen temples. Gion which is the geisha district in Kyoto, still includes many original teahouses and structures. The ancient buildings here make one feel like they are back in the past. Consider having a kaiseki meal or spending your night in a traditional ryokan to get a true feeling of Kyoto’s culture.
2. Nara was the first place where the Japanese government had a permanent capital.
Nara, only a short journey from Kyoto, is where you will find some of Japan’s oldest temples and the huge Daibutsu statue at Todai-ji. Seeing deer freely walking through Nara Park adds more beauty to the city. Other things to see are Kasuga Taisha Shrine and the district of Naramachi which has old merchant houses and shops. Nara is a good place to go for a day trip, as it gives you great insights into history and a peaceful setting.
3. Kanazawa is known as the city where samurai and artisans lived.
Kanazawa which is sometimes called “Little Kyoto,” is known for its Edo-period culture and samurai heritage. The well-preserved Nagamachi Samurai District, the famous Kenroku-en Garden and the Higashi Chaya area for geisha show how rich Kanazawa’s culture is. Gold leaf production and Kutani porcelain are among the crafts that are still carried out in Kanazawa. Because of its slow tempo, old cobbled roads and well-maintained historic areas, Kanazawa is a favorite place for those who love culture.
4. Takayama is a town that seems to be preserved from the past.
Because it is found in the Japanese Alps, Takayama is famous for its ancient streets, wooden lodgings and early morning markets. Sanmachi Suji, the old town district, has sake breweries, shops and homes that are hundreds of years old. The Takayama Festival which is considered one of Japan’s most beautiful traditional events, also takes place in the town. Travelers who want to relax in a place full of culture and tradition will enjoy the peaceful mix of history, nature and traditional living in Takayama.
5. Shirakawa-go is known as a UNESCO Village of Thatched Roofs.
The area of Shirakawa-go is a brilliant display of Japan’s traditional rural life. The UNESCO World Heritage site is noted for its gassho-zukuri farmhouses which have steep, thatched roofs made to withstand winter snow. These homes which are centuries old, offer a glimpse into the way people lived in Japan’s countryside. You can also book a night in one of these houses to fully experience the area’s culture. Winter makes the village look as peaceful and beautiful as a fairy-tale world.
6. Nikko – A Place for Spiritual and Natural Relaxation
Nikko is only a two-hour train journey from Tokyo and it blends spiritual heritage with beautiful scenery. The Toshogu Shrine which was added to the UNESCO list, showcases incredible architecture and many colorful carvings. Nearby, there are lovely waterfalls, hot springs and Lake Chuzenji. Nikko is an important spot where Shinto and Buddhist beliefs are combined and is seen as a sacred site. The close distance to the capital makes it the ideal place for tourists to visit.
7. Kurashiki – Historic Canals from Japan
Kurashiki which is part of Okayama Prefecture, is known for its Bikan Historical Quarter, an area that features canals and Edo-period warehouses and houses. Kurashiki used to play a major role in rice distribution, but now it attracts people with its historical appeal. Currently, visitors can enjoy boutiques, museums and calm teahouses in the town. You may also visit the Ohara Museum of Art which was Japan’s first museum dedicated to Western artworks. For those who want to see Japan’s historic towns in a peaceful setting, Kurashiki is a good option.
8. Matsumoto is known as the Alps’ Castle Town.
Matsumoto is famous mainly for Matsumoto Castle which is among Japan’s few original castles and has been designated a National Treasure. Because of its black exterior, the castle is known as the “Crow Castle” and looks beautiful against the Alps. You’ll find preserved streets from the merchant era, soba restaurants and convenient access to hot springs in the area. Matsumoto mixes the appeal of ancient Japan with the peace of a mountain town.
9. The Nakasendo Trail includes Tsumago and Magome – Post Towns.
These towns which are now beautifully restored, were once part of the Nakasendo Trail that linked Kyoto and Tokyo during the Edo period. Now, people can walk along a scenic trail that leads them through the same places as ancient visitors. Tsumago keeps its true character by not allowing many cars in the area. You can find traditional minshuku, streets made of stone and wooden homes in both towns which make travelers feel like they are in old Japan.
10. Hakone – Hot Springs and the Remains of Edo-Era Culture
Even though Hakone is famous for its hot springs and Mount Fuji, it also has the Hakone Open-Air Museum and old checkpoints from the Edo period. Experiencing a ryokan with its own private onsen and kaiseki cuisine is a very cultural experience by itself. Hakone is a great place to visit from Tokyo for the weekend, as it has art, tradition and relaxation.
Conclusion
When you travel through Japan’s history, you get to see traditions that are still alive in the country. From the sacred temples in Kyoto to the calm villages in Shirakawa-go, each place has something special and unique about it. They provide an opportunity for visitors to see Japan’s changes and still keep its essence. Traditional settlements and cultural attractions help people understand Japan’s past by giving them chances to reflect, learn and appreciate its heritage.
Getting a visa for your trip from the UAE is now much easier. Applying for a Japan Visa from Sharjah is now easier and this allows tourists to easily visit Japan’s historical sites. They not only give me knowledge and inspiration but also make me recall the beauty of Japanese culture for years after. Therefore, get your bags ready, organize your papers and head to a place where every village has a story and every temple keeps history.