Oman is one of the most overlooked gems of the Middle East, a country that will completely disarm you with its authenticity and incredible calm. While the neighbouring emirates lure visitors with futuristic skyscrapers and showy luxury, here you’ll find deep rocky canyons, crystal-clear emerald wadis and endless sand dunes. It’s a vast land where old Bedouin traditions still play the leading role and where locals welcome you with a genuine smile and a cup of fragrant coffee.

If you’re looking for a destination that is one of the safest in the world while offering real adventure at every turn, you’ve just found it. In this article I bring you a complete guide and 21 of the best places to see and things to do in Oman, so you can plan your holiday down to the last detail. We’ll explore the bustling markets of the capital Muscat, discover the dramatic Hajar Mountains, and we won’t skip the tropical south around Salalah either.

I’ll also advise you on the best time to go, how to get around the country most easily, and where to base yourself strategically. Get ready, because this fascinating country full of the scent of precious frankincense and delicious sweet dates is guaranteed to win over your travelling heart.

TL;DR

• Two different seasons: For most of the country, the ideal time to visit is October to April, but the south around Salalah is also visited in summer during the unique khareef monsoon.
• How to get there: From the UK you can fly to Muscat with a convenient single stopover in Doha (Qatar Airways) or Dubai (Emirates), or directly with Oman Air from London Heathrow (the direct flight takes around 7 hours).
• A hire car is essential: The best way to explore Oman is by rental car, and for the mountains and desert you’ll absolutely need a reliable 4×4.
• Navigation: Don’t rely solely on classic Google Maps, which can occasionally play up here — download the Waze app to your phone instead.
• Visas are sorted online: UK citizens need an e-visa, which you can easily arrange in advance on the official Omani police website.
• Complete safety: Oman regularly ranks among the safest countries on the planet, crime is practically zero and the people are extraordinarily hospitable.
• Diversity: On a single trip you can see grand mosques, swim in caves, sleep under the stars in the desert and snorkel with sea turtles.

When to Visit Oman and What Weather to Expect

Planning a trip to Oman has one big quirk, because the country offers two completely different seasons. For the vast majority of the country (including Muscat, the mountains and the desert), the absolute best time to visit is the European winter, from October to April. In these months temperatures hover between a pleasant 20 and 30 degrees Celsius, which makes ideal conditions for hiking, camping and swimming in the wadis without any risk of heatstroke.

From May to September, northern and central Oman turns into a furnace where temperatures routinely climb above 45 degrees. During this period sightseeing in the interior simply can’t be recommended, as being outdoors is literally unbearable. The only exception are the high-altitude regions like Jebel Akhdar, where the elevation makes it noticeably cooler and where even Omanis themselves escape to hide from the heat.

Entirely different rules apply to the southern province of Dhofar and the city of Salalah, which experience a unique summer monsoon known as khareef. Roughly from late June to early September, thick fog blankets the south of the country, temperatures drop to a very pleasant 24 degrees and the dry landscape turns miraculously green. Temporary waterfalls and lakes form, drawing crowds of tourists from all over the Arabian Peninsula who flee here to escape the summer inferno.

When choosing your dates, don’t forget to also check the date of the moving holy month of Ramadan. During this Islamic festival, eating, drinking and smoking in public during daylight hours is forbidden (and this applies to tourists too). Opening hours of sights and shops tend to be significantly shortened, but on the other hand the city comes alive after sunset with an incredible atmosphere during the festive iftar dinners.

Practical Tips: How to Get to Oman, Visas and Transport

Getting to Oman is far easier from the UK today than it used to be. During the main winter season you can take a direct flight with Oman Air from London Heathrow to Muscat, which takes a comfortable seven hours or so. There are also countless one-stop options, most often with Qatar Airways via Doha or with Emirates via nearby Dubai. Flights can be found at very reasonable prices if you start looking well in advance.

If you’re not the type who enjoys planning everything yourself, several UK tour operators offer both beach and touring packages to Oman. Charter and package flights to the south around Salalah are especially popular, and these trips often include accommodation in luxury beach resorts with all-inclusive dining — a great choice for anyone who mainly wants to relax by the sea.

To enter the country you’ll need a valid passport (with at least 6 months’ validity after your return) and a visa. UK citizens must arrange an electronic e-visa in advance, exclusively through the official government portal (evisa.rop.gov.om). A short-term 10-day tourist visa costs roughly 5 Omani rials (about £10), while the monthly visa costs around 20 rials. Immigration rules change frequently, so before you fly, be sure to check the latest requirements on the UK government’s foreign travel advice website.

Travelling around Oman is best done in a hire car. Petrol here is extremely cheap (a litre works out at barely 50p) and the roads and motorways are in perfect condition. If you’re only heading along the coast and into the big cities, a standard saloon car will do. But if you’re planning to venture into the mountains to Jebel Shams, Jebel Akhdar or into the Wahiba Sands desert, you must absolutely rent a four-wheel-drive vehicle (4×4). On Jebel Akhdar, the police won’t even let you past the checkpoint without one.

Where to Stay in Oman: From Desert Camps to Luxury Resorts

💡 Tip for accommodation and experiences: We prefer to look for accommodation on Booking.com, where the cancellation policies tend to be the best. Tickets, tours and activities are then worth comparing and buying through GetYourGuide.

Oman offers an incredibly varied range of accommodation, from authentic Bedouin tents to palaces where you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a One Thousand and One Nights fairy tale. In the capital Muscat, travellers most often rave about the gorgeous five-star The Chedi Muscat, famous for its minimalist architecture and enormous pool. Prices here do match the luxury, but according to reviews the experience is absolutely worth it.

If you’re after something a little more affordable but still top-tier, take a look at the sprawling Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa, set in a breathtaking bay just outside Muscat. It offers great conditions for families and couples alike. For lovers of modern design in the new city district, an ideal choice is the Kempinski Hotel Muscat, which sits right on a beautiful promenade and offers first-class service.

A completely different experience awaits you in the interior, specifically in the Wahiba Sands desert. A night spent in a desert camp is an absolute must. You’ll find simple tents for adventurers as well as so-called glamping options with air conditioning and glass roofs for stargazing. Most camps include a traditional Bedouin dinner and breakfast in the price, which is a great chance to sample local hospitality.

In the south, Salalah is dominated by large beach resorts. Among the very best rated is the Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara, offering private villas with a pool right on the long sandy beach. Another very popular and slightly gentler-on-the-wallet classic is the Salalah Rotana Resort, which boasts beautiful architecture inspired by Omani villages and extensive gardens.

21 Best Places to See and Things to Do in Oman

Let’s now take a look at the very best this magical country has to offer. I’ve divided the tips into logical sections, from the capital through the interior all the way to the far north and south, so you can easily put together your own itinerary.

1. Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque (Muscat)

The Grand Mosque in Muscat is an absolute architectural gem and probably the most famous landmark in the whole country. It was completed in 2001 at the behest of the then sultan and can hold an incredible 20,000 worshippers. It’s also one of the few mosques in the entire Gulf that is officially open to non-Muslims. Entry is completely free, which is a very pleasant surprise for such a grand monument.

Inside the main prayer hall your jaw will literally drop. You’ll find the second-largest hand-woven carpet in the world, on which 600 Iranian weavers worked for four long years. Above your head glitters a gigantic Swarovski crystal chandelier weighing over eight tonnes and fitted with thousands of lights. The intricate ornamentation of the marble walls and wooden ceilings is a showcase of the finest Islamic art.

When visiting, you must observe a very strict dress code. Both men and women must have their shoulders and knees covered without exception (ideally long trousers and sleeves), and women must additionally cover their hair with a scarf. If you don’t have suitable clothing, traditional garments can be hired at the entrance for a fee.

💡 Tip: For tourists the mosque is open only from Saturday to Thursday between 8:00 and 11:00 in the morning. On Fridays it is strictly closed to the public for the main prayers. I recommend arriving right at 8 a.m. to avoid the biggest crowds from the cruise ships and enjoy the magical atmosphere in peace. If you’d like to know more about Muscat, take a look at our separate article Muscat: What to See in the Capital.

2. The Traditional Mutrah Souk (Muscat)

No visit to an Arab country is complete without a trip to a traditional market. Mutrah Souk lies right by the harbour promenade (the Corniche) and is one of the oldest and most authentic markets in the entire Arab world. Its narrow, winding lanes are roofed with wooden beams that shelter you from the fierce midday sun.

Right at the entrance you’ll be hit by the intense aroma of genuine Omani frankincense, myrrh and exotic spices. You can buy practically anything here, from silver jewellery and colourful cashmere scarves to traditional khanjar daggers, pottery and antiques. It’s an ideal spot to pick up souvenirs to take home.

Remember that haggling over prices is a must here and part of the local culture. Traders often set their first price quite high, so don’t be afraid to smile and suggest roughly half, then work your way towards a compromise. The souk tends to be liveliest in the evening after sunset, when local families come out to shop too.

3. The Royal Opera House Muscat

The Royal Opera House Muscat is proof of just how much Oman prides itself on culture and education. It’s the very first opera house built on the Arabian Peninsula, and its snow-white architecture, combining modern technology with traditional Islamic elements, is absolutely stunning. Even if you’re not planning to see a performance, the building is worth seeing from the outside alone.

For those interested, fascinating guided tours of the interior are held every morning, costing around 3 rials (roughly £6). During these you’ll see luxurious marble halls, intricate woodcarvings and learn about the acoustics of the main hall, which can be mechanically adjusted to suit the type of performance.

If you’d like to treat yourself to a cultural evening, tickets for a performance can be had from around 5 rials, though they climb to much higher figures depending on the exclusivity of the performers. Just bear in mind that evening events require formal dress, so you certainly won’t be let in wearing shorts and sandals.

4. Al Alam Palace and the Surrounding Forts (Muscat)

Al Alam Palace serves as the official ceremonial residence of the Omani sultan, and its striking blue-and-gold façade looks more like the set of some futuristic film than traditional Arab architecture. Although the palace interiors themselves aren’t open to the public, the spacious square and elegant colonnades in front of it are freely accessible and make a very popular photo stop.

Right behind the palace rise rugged cliffs guarded by two historic 16th-century Portuguese forts, Al Jalali and Al Mirani. In the past these forts protected the strategic entrance to Muscat’s harbour from pirate raids. Sadly you can’t go inside these either, as they’re still used by the royal guard and the army.

💡 Tip: The best time to visit this spot is in the late afternoon or just before sunset. The palace façade and surrounding cliffs take on a beautiful golden hue and the whole area is beautifully lit, creating the perfect atmosphere for an evening stroll.

5. Nizwa and Its Historic Fort

The town of Nizwa, about an hour and a half’s drive from Muscat, was once the capital of the whole of Oman and to this day retains enormous historical charisma. The main draw here is the massive circular 17th-century fort, the most visited national monument in the country. Its giant tower was tasked with protecting the town and the surrounding date plantations.

Entry to the fort costs 5 rials, and inside a real maze of corridors, staircases and secret traps awaits you. During your visit you’ll see ingenious defensive mechanisms, such as openings above the doors through which defenders once poured boiling date syrup onto their enemies. From the top of the tower there’s a fantastic view over the whole town, surrounded by green oases and a wall of mountains.

Right next to the fort stretches a sprawling market (Nizwa Souk), which is far calmer than the one in Muscat. It’s an ideal place to buy traditional Omani pottery, local silver and, above all, a vast array of sweet dates that you can sample right at the stalls.

6. The Friday Goat Market in Nizwa

If you want to experience something utterly authentic that transports you hundreds of years back in time, plan your visit to Nizwa for a Friday morning. Every Friday a traditional livestock market (the Goat Market) takes place here, drawing farmers and Bedouins from far and wide to buy and sell goats, sheep and cattle.

The event takes place on a circular area right next to the main market. Sellers lead their animals round in a circle while potential buyers sit around the edge, inspecting the animals carefully and loudly shouting out their price offers. The atmosphere here is incredibly lively, full of dust, bleating animals and haggling in Arabic.

💡 Tip: The whole spectacle starts very early — it’s best to arrive on the spot around seven in the morning. By around nine, most of the trading is over and the market slowly winds down. Entry is completely free, but remember to respect the locals and don’t photograph people close up in the face without asking.

7. Jebel Shams and the Grand Canyon of Arabia

Jebel Shams (meaning Mountain of the Sun) is, at just under three thousand metres, the highest peak in Oman. But the main reason people come here isn’t the summit itself — it’s the neighbouring gigantic Wadi Ghul canyon, quite rightly nicknamed the Grand Canyon of Arabia. The views from the edge of the cliff down into a kilometre-deep abyss are absolutely breathtaking.

To reach the viewpoint and the start of the walking trails, you’ll definitely need a 4×4 vehicle. The final kilometres up are along an unpaved, dusty road full of potholes and steep climbs. Your reward, though, will be noticeably cooler mountain air and panoramas that feel like they’re from another world.

The area’s biggest highlight is the famous walking trail known as the Balcony Walk (marked W6). This relatively easy path runs right along a narrow ledge in the canyon wall and leads you all the way to the abandoned stone village of As Sab. The whole round trip takes around three to four hours, with views into the chasm accompanying you the entire way.

8. Jebel Akhdar (the Green Mountain)

The second major mountain region is Jebel Akhdar, a vast plateau lying at over two thousand metres. Unlike parched Jebel Shams, this area is surprisingly green. Thanks to its specific microclimate, local farmers grow pomegranates on terraced fields here, along with walnuts, peaches and apricots.

The drive up is a great experience in itself. Although the road is wide and perfectly surfaced, the climb is so extremely steep that the police at the checkpoint below only allow 4×4 vehicles up. If you don’t have a four-wheel drive, you’ll have to leave your car in the car park below and hire a local taxi to take you up.

The Green Mountain is at its most beautiful in April. That’s precisely when thousands of Damask roses bloom on the slopes, from which precious rose water is distilled in the traditional way. You can set off on an easy walk between the old villages (for example from Al Aqur to Sayq) and watch the locals at harvest time.

9. Al Hoota Cave

If you want a break from the sunshine, head underground. The Al Hoota cave system lies at the foot of Jebel Shams, not far from the town of Al Hamra, and is estimated to be more than two million years old. A beautiful section around 500 metres long is open to tourists, safely lit and adapted for easy walking.

During the guided tour you’ll see impressive dripstones, stalactites and stalagmites of various colours and shapes. But the most interesting point of the route is the underground lake, home to rare blind fish (Garra barreimiae) that have adapted to life without eyes in the total darkness.

The visitor centre also includes a small but very nicely put-together geological museum, which will give you an insight into how the Omani landscape was formed. It’s often best to book cave tickets a few days in advance via the official website, as the daily entry capacity is strictly limited to protect the microclimate.

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Where to stay in Oman

6 accommodations — hotels, resorts and other lodging options

⭐ TOP CHOICE ⭐ Luxury

The Chedi Muscat

Magnificent five-star hotel renowned for its minimalist architecture and enormous pool. Prices reflect the luxury, but according to reviews, the experience is absolutely worth it.

★★★★★ Check prices

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Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa

Sprawling complex in a breathtaking bay just outside Muscat. Offers excellent facilities for families and couples.

★★★★★ Check prices

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Kempinski Hotel Muscat

Modern design hotel in a new urban development, located right by a beautiful promenade and offering top-class service.

★★★★★ Check prices

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Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara

Offers private villas with pools right on a long sandy beach. Among the highest-rated beach resorts in Salalah.

★★★★★ Check prices

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Salalah Rotana Resort

More budget-friendly classic, boasting beautiful architecture inspired by Omani villages and extensive gardens.

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View all accommodations in Oman

Explore all available accommodation options in Oman and find the best one according to your preferences and budget.

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10. The Mud-Brick Bahla Fort (UNESCO)

Oman is a land of castles and forts — there are over five hundred of them here — but Bahla Fort clearly stands out. It was, after all, the very first Omani monument to be inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list (way back in 1987). This gigantic complex of unbaked mud bricks originally dates from the 12th to 15th centuries, and its sheer scale will completely astound you.

The whole fort has undergone a long and costly restoration, and today you can freely wander the labyrinth of its corridors, watchtowers and hidden rooms. Unlike Nizwa, you won’t find much furniture or museum exhibits inside, but the main experience is the massive architecture itself and the views over the town, which is enclosed by a 12-kilometre-long mud wall.

The town of Bahla is also famous in Oman for its traditional pottery-making as well as its dark legends — locals believe it to be a centre of black magic and the home of jinn. If you have time to spare, I recommend driving a few more kilometres to the magnificent Jabreen Castle, which by contrast has beautifully decorated interiors and painted ceilings.

11. Bimmah Sinkhole (Hawiyat Najm)

Driving along the motorway from Muscat heading south towards Sur, you’ll come across a natural phenomenon you’d certainly never expect in such a dry landscape. Bimmah Sinkhole is a huge depression in the limestone rock, with a beautifully turquoise pool glistening at the bottom. Local legend claims the hole in the ground was created by a falling meteorite, but geologists lean towards a natural collapse of a cave roof.

A landscaped park with benches and toilets has been built around the sinkhole, and entry to the grounds is completely free. A safe concrete staircase leads down to the water, so you can get here completely without any trouble, even with younger children.

The water in the pool is refreshing and swimming is officially permitted here. There are even little fish living in it (the kind known from Asian spa salons) that will gently nibble the dead skin off your feet once you dip them in. It’s an ideal quick stop of around 30 to 45 minutes to stretch your legs and cool off before the next stretch of driving.

12. The Spectacular Wadi Shab

Wadi Shab is probably the most famous and most photographed wadi in all of Oman. The route to it starts by the motorway, where you have to leave your car in the car park and, for a symbolic fee of 1 rial, be ferried across the wide river to the other bank by a small motorboat. From there, a walking adventure awaits.

Next comes a roughly 45-minute hike up the valley. You’ll walk past falaj irrigation channels, through date plantations and hop across enormous white boulders. Once you reach the first turquoise pools, you’ll have to leave your things behind and continue on by swimming and wading through the water. The water is wonderfully clear and incredibly refreshing.

The absolute highlight of the whole trip is the end of the route, where you have to swim through a very narrow crevice in the rock into a hidden cave, inside which a small waterfall cascades down. This final section, however, is suitable only for genuinely strong swimmers, as you can’t touch the bottom inside the cave. Avoid visiting at the local weekend (Friday and Saturday), when hundreds of local families come here and the valley is hopelessly overcrowded.

💡 Tip: If you don’t want to sort out the logistics of getting here from the capital on your own, trips to Wadi Shab can be very easily booked in advance via GetYourGuide, where you’ll often find packages combined with a visit to Bimmah Sinkhole.

13. The Green Wadi Tiwi

Right in the neighbouring valley beside Wadi Shab lies its lesser-known but all the greener sister — Wadi Tiwi. Whereas the former wadi is more rocky and wild, Wadi Tiwi is a huge, 36-kilometre-long oasis brimming with life. The canyon is densely overgrown with banana, fig and mango trees, among which small villages perch on the steep slopes.

The difference lies in the accessibility too. A narrow and very steep tarmac road runs through Wadi Tiwi, along which you can drive fairly high up into the valley. For safety reasons, though, the local authorities only allow 4×4 vehicles in. The road really is only for hardened drivers, as passing an oncoming car above a precipice requires nerves of steel.

If you don’t dare to drive it, you can leave your car down at the entrance and set off into the wadi on foot, or use the services of local residents who, for a few rials, will take you up on the back of their pick-up. Up at the village of Mibam you’ll then find beautiful pools with small waterfalls, where you can bathe in complete peace without the crowds of tourists.

14. Swimming in Wadi Bani Khalid

If you’re looking for an oasis that’s easy to reach and doesn’t require any demanding hiking, Wadi Bani Khalid is the right choice for you. It’s located on the edge of the desert on the way towards Wahiba Sands, and you can drive comfortably right up to the enormous car park along a good-quality road in any car.

From the car park it’s just a five-minute slow walk along a concrete path to the first enormous natural pools. The water here glows an unbelievable emerald colour and is pleasantly warm all year round. Right by the main lake there’s also a small restaurant where you can have a coffee or a simple lunch.

The place is very popular with local families for weekend picnics. So remember to respect local customs — although swimming is tolerated here, it’s recommended to swim in a T-shirt and shorts rather than a tiny bikini. If you follow the path a little further upstream, you’ll come across smaller and much quieter pools nestled among white rocks.

15. A Night in the Wahiba Sands Desert (Sharqiya Sands)

Experiencing a real desert is one of the main reasons to visit Oman. Wahiba Sands, officially known as A’Sharqiyah Sands, is a vast sea of golden and red sand dunes stretching for almost 200 kilometres. The gateway to the desert is usually the town of Bidiyah, where you should let some pressure out of your tyres just to be safe.

I’d definitely recommend booking an overnight stay in one of the desert camps. Most of them are hidden deep among the dunes, roughly 15 to 30 kilometres from the tarmac road. The way to them follows tracks worn into the sand, and without a four-wheel-drive car you won’t get there. If you don’t have one, the camp owners will happily come and collect you at the edge of the desert.

The experiences at the camp are unforgettable. Around five in the afternoon you’ll scramble up the nearest high dune and watch the magical sunset in complete silence. In the evening you’ll settle down on carpets around the fire, be served traditional Arabic tea and a Bedouin dinner, and above your head a sky studded with millions of stars will unfold, without a trace of light pollution.

16. The Port Town of Sur

The town of Sur, lying on the eastern tip of the country, has an incredibly rich maritime history. For centuries it was the most important port for trade with India and East Africa and the home port of the legendary seafarer Sinbad. Today it’s a calm and very pleasant town with a long promenade, an old lighthouse and snow-white houses.

But the main attraction in Sur is the last working shipyard for traditional wooden dhow boats. These mighty trading vessels are still built here by hand, without any modern plans, purely with skill passed down from generation to generation. You can visit the shipyard (the Dhow Factory) for a small fee and watch the workers at their woodwork.

In the evening it’s worth heading into the centre for dinner. Although Sur is known for its fresh catch from the sea, as a vegetarian I can promise you that you’ll find plenty of excellent Indian restaurants here, serving you the finest fresh naan bread and honest lentil dhal or vegetable biryani for a fraction of European prices.

17. The Ras al Jinz Turtle Reserve

Just outside the town of Sur lies the protected Ras al Jinz nature reserve, which is the easternmost point of the Arabian Peninsula. This place is world-famous because every year thousands of endangered green turtles come here to lay their eggs in the soft sand.

The beach is strictly protected and entry is only possible with a licensed guide (a ranger). Tours take place either early in the morning at dawn or late at night. During a walk along the dark beach, with a bit of luck you’ll watch the giant females digging pits and laying eggs, or conversely freshly hatched hatchlings instinctively dashing towards the ocean waves.

It’s an incredibly moving experience, but it has its rules. Photography with a flash is strictly forbidden so as not to startle the turtles. The females come here to lay eggs all year round, but the absolute peak of the season is in the hot summer months from July to September. Be sure to book the night tours several weeks in advance, as they tend to be hopelessly sold out.

18. A Cruise Through the Fjords of Musandam

The Musandam Peninsula is a geographical anomaly — it’s the northernmost part of Oman, yet it’s separated from the rest of the country by the territory of the United Arab Emirates. This area is so dramatic and rocky that it’s earned the nickname the Norway of Arabia. Instead of green forests, though, the warm water of the Persian Gulf laps against steep limestone cliffs here.

The main activity in Musandam, which is most often reached from nearby Dubai, is a full-day cruise on a traditional wooden dhow boat. These boats, often fitted with soft carpets and cushions, take you deep into the intricate fjords, where no roads lead and where you’ll see only small, isolated fishing villages accessible only by water.

During the cruise (which lasts around 6 hours), you’ll almost certainly be accompanied by pods of playful dolphins who love to swim in the waves ahead of the boat’s bow. The trip usually also includes a stop at the famous Telegraph Island, where you’ll put on a mask and snorkel and dive into the warm water full of colourful fish.

19. Tropical Salalah and the Khareef Phenomenon

The city of Salalah, lying in the far south in the province of Dhofar, represents a completely different world to the rest of Oman. As I mentioned in the introduction, this place is famous for the khareef phenomenon — the summer monsoon that transforms the parched desert into a green oasis. While it’s 45 degrees in Muscat in July, here it’s a pleasant 24 degrees and a fine drizzle falls from the sky.

But even if you head to Salalah in the European winter, when it’s sunny and warm, you won’t be disappointed. The city is fringed with endless plantations of coconut palms, banana and papaya trees, which lend it a thoroughly tropical, Caribbean feel. Buying a fresh coconut with a straw at the roadside is a daily obligation here.

The long white-sand beaches practically beg you to relax, which is why Salalah has become a hub of beach resorts. If you’re tempted by the combination of sea, white sand and stunning nature, be sure to read our detailed article Salalah and the South of Oman: Tips and Resorts, where you’ll find a detailed itinerary just for this region.

20. Waterfalls and Frankincense Trees Around Salalah

The area around Salalah offers so many natural and historical wonders that you could easily spend a whole week here. One of the most interesting spots is the Wadi Darbat valley. During the monsoon and just after it (in autumn), mighty waterfalls and sprawling turquoise lakes form here, on which you can go pedal-boating while herds of camels and cattle graze freely around you.

Heading west of the city, you mustn’t skip a stop at Al Mughsail beach. Here you’ll find the famous blowholes — natural rock vents in the cliffs through which, during a strong surf, seawater shoots up under pressure like a geyser almost 30 metres high. It’s an astonishing spectacle of the ocean’s power.

Dhofar is also the cradle of the finest frankincense in the world (resin from the Boswellia sacra trees). On the way to the Rub’ al Khali desert you’ll come across the protected Wadi Dawkah frankincense valley (UNESCO), where around five thousand of these gnarled, at first glance withered trees grow, whose fragrant resin once brought the region greater wealth than oil does today.

21. Snorkelling at the Daymaniyat Islands

Our final tip takes us back to the northwest of Muscat. If you love the underwater world, you mustn’t skip a trip to the Daymaniyat Islands. This uninhabited archipelago of nine small limestone islets forms a strictly protected marine reserve and represents the best spot for snorkelling and diving in all of Oman.

Beneath the surface, well-preserved, colourful coral reefs and enormous shoals of tropical fish await you, and with a bit of luck you’ll almost certainly come across sea turtles foraging for food here. In the summer months and in autumn, harmless and majestic whale sharks also appear here fairly often.

Given the strict nature protection, you can’t head here on your own, but only as part of an organised trip with a licensed agency that will arrange the compulsory daily permit for you. Snorkelling trips cost an adult roughly 45 rials. Also bear in mind that, due to the nesting of rare birds and turtles, setting foot on the islands is completely forbidden from May to October and you can only stay in the water.

Where to Go Next from Oman

If you have more time available, or want to get a fuller picture of the possibilities across the whole Persian Gulf region, Oman can very easily be combined with neighbouring countries. Plenty of travellers fly first to the Emirates and from there drive or hop over to Muscat. If you’re tempted by giant metropolises and modern architecture, be sure to read our tips on what Dubai: Holiday and Tips looks like, or take inspiration from our article on the neighbouring luxury city of Holidays in Abu Dhabi.

Should you decide to dedicate your entire holiday to Oman alone (which I warmly recommend, because it’s huge), don’t forget to read up on our detailed regional guides. For the northern part of the country and the capital, make use of the article Muscat: What to See in the Capital. If you’re drawn more to the tropical south and the green khareef season, draw inspiration from the guide Salalah and the South of Oman: Tips and Resorts. And if you’re considering other Arab destinations purely for winter warmth, our guide When to Go to Egypt (Weather) may also help.

Frequently Asked Questions

Japan is a fascinating country that blends completely contradictory worlds and never stops amazing travellers. On one side you’ll be swept up in neon lights, robots and super-fast trains, while just a few streets away you’ll stumble upon quiet zen gardens and ancient wooden temples.

Planning a trip to the Land of the Rising Sun can seem a little intimidating at first, especially because of the different culture and the sheer number of places to see. But once you know what to expect, you’ll find it’s an incredibly safe, clean and superbly organised destination.

In this guide you’ll find exactly 21 tips for the most beautiful places to visit in Japan that you shouldn’t miss in 2026. Together we’ll look at how transport works, what to watch out for when hunting down accommodation, and how to enjoy the trip without any unnecessary stress.

TL;DR

• Best time to visit: Spring for the cherry blossoms (late March to early April) or autumn for the colourful maples (November).
• Transport and trains: The shinkansen bullet trains are the most comfortable, but the once-popular JR Pass often no longer makes sense for shorter trips after its price hike.
• Money and payments: Always keep cash in Japanese yen on you, as small businesses and temples often don’t take cards.
• Tourist visas: UK citizens can enter visa-free for 90 days, and the much-talked-about JESTA system hasn’t launched yet.
• Etiquette is key: Get ready to take your shoes off often, no phone calls on public transport and strict rules in the traditional baths.
• Accommodation: Try at least one night in a traditional ryokan with a futon and hot springs.
• Vegetarian diet: Watch out for the fish stock dashi, which is added to almost everything in Japan.

When to Travel to Japan

Japan’s weather changes dramatically with the seasons, so getting your timing right is absolutely crucial. Spring is understandably the most popular, when the famous cherry blossoms bloom, usually falling around the turn of March and April.

If you want to see Tokyo or Kyoto buried under a blanket of pink flowers, be prepared for the fact that this is by far the most expensive part of the year. The general window for full bloom is around 29 March to 7 April, but you’ll need to book accommodation for these dates as much as twelve months in advance.

A great and often quieter alternative is autumn, specifically November and early December, when the trees turn deep shades of red, known as momiji. The autumn weather tends to be more stable, it rains less, and timing the colourful foliage is far easier than with the unpredictable cherry blossoms.

Definitely try to avoid the summer months, as July and August bring extreme humidity of around 80 percent and temperatures climbing well above thirty degrees. On top of that, the rainy season tsuyu runs from June to mid-July, and typhoons threaten towards the end of summer.

Another big trap for tourists is the Japanese public holidays, which you should steer well clear of. These include the so-called Golden Week at the turn of April and May, the August Obon holiday, and the days around New Year, when the Japanese travel en masse and everything is hopelessly sold out.

Practical Information: Transport, JR Pass, Visa and Money

Flying from the UK usually takes around twelve to fourteen hours. There are direct flights from London Heathrow with airlines like Japan Airlines and British Airways, but you can often find cheaper options with one stop via the Middle East (Qatar Airways, Emirates) or via Helsinki with Finnair. Return tickets in the low season start at roughly £600–700.

There’s been a lot of confusion swirling around tourist visas lately, but for both 2026 and 2027, UK citizens can still enter visa-free for 90 days. The Japanese government has approved an electronic JESTA system, but its launch is realistically planned for 2028, so don’t be scared off by misinformation online.

Getting around the country is a fascinating experience thanks to the shinkansen bullet trains, which race along at up to 320 kilometres per hour. The journey from Tokyo to Kyoto takes just over two hours on the fastest Nozomi service, and a one-way ticket costs roughly 14,000 JPY (about £75).

If you’re planning to travel a lot, you may have heard of the legendary JR Pass, but be very careful. This tourist ticket has become massively more expensive, and in 2026 a seven-day pass costs 50,000 JPY (from October even 53,000 JPY), so if you’re only doing the Tokyo to Kyoto route, it absolutely won’t pay off.

For getting around cities, set up a digital Suica card straight after you land, which you can easily add to Apple Pay. You then just tap it at the metro turnstiles or use it to pay in shops, saving you an incredible amount of time buying paper tickets.

As for driving, keep in mind that a standard UK International Driving Permit isn’t automatically enough — Japan only recognises IDPs issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention. Fortunately, that’s exactly the type UK drivers can get from the Post Office before departure, so make sure you pick up the right one.

A big local quirk is the relationship with money, because Japan is still very much cash-dependent, even though the situation is slowly improving. You can pay by card in supermarkets and hotels, but smaller family-run restaurants or temple entrances require hard cash, which you can easily withdraw from ATMs in the 7-Eleven network.

Food can be tricky for vegetarians and vegans, because the fish stock dashi lurks almost everywhere. It’s added to miso soups, sauces and noodles, so always look for dedicated vegan restaurants — the T’s Tantan chain at Tokyo’s train stations serves excellent vegan ramen, for example. Local specialities like sushi or wagyu beef are of course only for the “carnivores”; vegetarians should try the Buddhist temple cuisine shojin ryori instead.

Stay connected to the internet at all times, ideally through an eSIM card you can pick up for a few pounds before you even leave home — a service like Holafly is perfect for this. Without Google Maps and a translator you’ll get lost in Japan, because English really isn’t a strong point here and the signage in smaller alleys is often only in Japanese characters.

Finally, don’t forget the local etiquette, which strictly forbids tipping in restaurants. There’s absolute silence on public transport, it’s rude to blow your nose in public, and you must always take off your shoes before entering traditional rooms or temples.

Where to Stay in Japan

💡 Accommodation and experiences tip: We love searching for places to stay on Booking.com, which usually has the best cancellation terms. For tickets, tours and activities, it’s worth comparing and booking through GetYourGuide.

Accommodation in Japan is a big experience in itself, and it’s well worth mixing up different types. For at least one or two nights, book a traditional Japanese inn called a ryokan, where you’ll sleep on a futon mattress laid directly on tatami straw mats.

These traditional inns often have their own onsen hot springs, where you go to relax after a full day of walking. Just bear in mind that most public baths have a strict ban on entry with tattoos, so if you’ve got inked skin, look for accommodation with a private bath in the room.

For budget travellers or sci-fi lovers, the so-called capsule hotels are ideal, where you literally rent just a bed in the wall. They’re extremely clean, modern places with amazing facilities — a highly rated option is Nine Hours Narita Airport right by the airport, or branches of the same chain in Tokyo.

You’ll probably spend most of your time in classic business hotels, which offer small but perfectly efficient rooms. A great choice is the well-known APA Hotels chain, or the popular Hotel Gracery Shinjuku in Tokyo, with a giant Godzilla head peeking out of it and a location right in the heart of the action.

An utterly unique experience is staying in a Buddhist temple, known as shukubo, especially in the sacred region of Koya-san. The Shukubo Koya-san Eko-in monastery offers beautiful lodging, where you can join the morning meditations and be served perfect vegan meals. I’d recommend booking traditional accommodation through Booking well in advance.

21 Best Places to Visit in Japan

Let’s take a look at the most important things this Asian gem has to offer. You’ll find a perfect mix of pulsating megacities and quiet corners where time has stood still.

1. Tokyo and the Crazy Shibuya Crossing

This is exactly the spot you know from every film about Tokyo. At the famous Shibuya crossing, thousands of people set off from all directions at once when the light goes green, creating a fascinating yet perfectly functioning chaos.

Right by the crossing you’ll find the touching statue of the dog Hachikō, who waited here for years for his deceased owner. It’s probably the most popular meeting spot in the whole city, so there’s always a huge crowd of tourists and locals.

💡 Tip: The best view of this madness from above is from the Shibuya Sky observation deck, but you’ll need to buy tickets online, potentially weeks in advance.

2. Neon Lights and Nightlife in Shinjuku

If you’re after the real, flashing Tokyo, head to Shinjuku after dark. You’ll find an endless number of neon signs, pachinko arcades and giant screens with 3D animations.

A huge highlight is a stroll through the Golden Gai alleys, where hundreds of miniature bars are crammed together, some fitting just five guests. A few are locals-only, but many will happily let you in for an unbelievable atmosphere.

During the day you can unwind here in the gorgeous Shinjuku Gyoen park, a huge green oasis in the middle of the skyscrapers and one of the best spots for watching the spring blossoms.

3. Traditional Atmosphere in the Asakusa District

Tokyo isn’t just a modern jungle, which the historic Asakusa district proves best. Its centrepiece is the beautiful Buddhist temple Senso-ji, which you reach through an enormous gate with a giant red lantern.

The path to the temple is lined by the long Nakamise shopping street, full of stalls selling traditional souvenirs and local street food. It’s a great place to buy gifts or sample mochi rice cakes.

💡 Tip: Definitely pay for the omikuji fortune-telling here for 100 JPY, and if you draw a bad fortune, simply tie the slip of paper to the racks provided so the bad luck stays at the temple.

4. Wild Pop Culture in Akihabara and Harajuku

For fans of anime, manga and video games, the Akihabara district is an absolute paradise. You’ll see giant multi-storey arcades, shops packed with collectible figures, and girls on the streets luring you into the so-called maid cafés.

A completely different kind of madness awaits in Harajuku, specifically the colourful Takeshita Street, where Tokyo’s youth gather in the most extravagant fashion creations.

Here you’ll buy giant candy floss, crêpes stuffed with whipped cream and fruit, or the cutest clothing you can imagine. Just next door lies the luxury boulevard Omotesando, nicknamed the Champs-Élysées of Tokyo.

5. Kyoto and the Thousands of Red Gates at Fushimi Inari

Kyoto is the cultural heart of the country, and the Fushimi Inari shrine is one of the most photographed places in the world. Here you’ll find thousands of iconic red torii gates forming tunnels that climb high up a forested hill.

Entry to the grounds is completely free and open around the clock, which you should definitely take advantage of. If you come during the day, be prepared for unbearable crowds.

💡 Tip: Come here ideally around six in the morning, when you’ll have the mysterious fox statues and red gates almost to yourself. The higher up the hill you climb, the fewer tourists you’ll meet.

6. The Golden Pavilion Kinkaku-ji

This temple looks like it fell straight out of a fairy tale. The two upper floors of Kinkaku-ji are completely covered in gold leaf, which reflects beautifully in the surface of the adjacent pond on sunny days.

A ticket into the grounds costs 500 JPY, but sadly you can’t go inside the pavilion itself. You can only admire it from the outside while strolling through the beautifully maintained zen gardens.

Because of its fame, be prepared to be constantly jostled by hundreds of tourists, so arm yourself with patience and try to arrive right at opening time.

7. The Bamboo Grove in the Arashiyama Area

On the western edge of Kyoto lies a natural wonder you mustn’t miss. A walk through the towering bamboo grove in Arashiyama is an incredibly calming experience, especially when the wind blows and the stalks knock against each other.

This natural gem is also open to the public for free, but it suffers from the onslaught of visitors. Once you’ve taken your photos, explore the surrounding lanes full of traditional shops too.

Right next to the grove I recommend visiting the beautiful Tenryu-ji temple, a UNESCO-listed site with one of the loveliest traditional gardens in all of Kyoto.

8. Historic Gion Lanes and the Kiyomizu-dera Temple

The Gion district is known around the world as the home of Kyoto’s geisha and maiko, whom you can occasionally spot hurrying to tea houses. Please respect their privacy and don’t photograph them up close — because of unruly tourists, the city has already closed some lanes to the public.

From Gion, a slow walk through the historic Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka lanes takes you all the way to the magnificent Kiyomizu-dera temple, built on tall wooden pillars.

From its terrace there’s an amazing view over the whole of Kyoto, for which you’ll pay 500 JPY admission. Below the terrace flows the Otawa spring, from whose three streams you can drink for luck, longevity or success in your studies.

Lukáš and Lucie recommend

Where to stay in Japan

4 accommodations — hotels and other lodging options

⭐ TOP CHOICE 🏨 Hotel

Nine Hours Narita Airport

Capsule hotel right at Narita Airport – extremely clean and modern with amazing facilities. Ideal for budget travelers or sci-fi enthusiasts, where you literally rent just a bed in the wall.

★★★★ Check prices

Check availability 🏨 Hotel

Hotel Gracery Shinjuku

Popular business hotel in the center of Shinjuku, with a giant Godzilla head peeking out. Located right in the heart of the action.

★★★★ Check prices

Check availability 🏡 Monastery

Shukubo Koya-san Eko-in

Traditional lodging in a Buddhist temple on the sacred Mount Koya-san. You can participate in morning meditations and taste the perfect vegan temple cuisine shojin ryori.

★★★★ Check prices

Check availability 🔍 Search

View all accommodations in Japan

Explore all available accommodation options in Japan and find the best one according to your preferences and budget.

★★★★ Compare prices

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9. Osaka and the Majestic Osaka Castle

While Kyoto is calm and traditional, neighbouring Osaka is its wild, chatty opposite. The city’s biggest historic landmark is the gorgeous Osaka Castle, which towers over a sprawling park full of cherry trees and defensive moats.

The castle itself is a modern concrete reconstruction inside with a museum, but from the outside it looks absolutely imposing. Since 2025 the admission to the tower has gone up, so an adult ticket now costs 1,200 JPY.

💡 Tip: Tickets and various sightseeing cruises in Osaka can be very conveniently bought in advance through GetYourGuide, which saves you long queues at the ticket offices.

10. Neon Madness in the Dotonbori District

Osaka is affectionately nicknamed the kitchen of Japan, and the main hub of all the action is around the Dotonbori canal. After dark, this place literally explodes with neon colours, led by the famous glowing Glico Man runner.

The streets are lined with restaurants sporting giant mechanical crabs or octopuses on their façades. Osaka is famous for its kuidaore culture, which loosely translates as “eat until you drop”.

Right on the street you have to try the famous takoyaki balls (which do contain pieces of octopus) or the fantastic okonomiyaki cabbage pancakes, which the cooks fry right before your eyes.

11. Nara and the Sacred Bowing Deer

The little town of Nara lies just a short train ride from Osaka and is an absolutely ideal destination for a day trip. The main draw is the huge park full of sacred sika deer, over twelve hundred of which roam freely here.

The animals are incredibly cheeky and used to people. At the local stalls you can buy special senbei crackers for 200 JPY, and the moment you pull them out, the deer will immediately surround you and literally bow to get a treat.

Besides the animals, don’t miss the imposing wooden Todai-ji temple in Nara, with an admission of 800 JPY. Inside sits a fifteen-metre-tall bronze statue of the Great Buddha that will take your breath away.

12. Hiroshima and the Legacy of a Dark History

Visiting Hiroshima is an immensely emotional and powerful experience that everyone should try. In the city centre stands the ominous Atomic Dome, one of the few buildings that partially survived the atomic bomb blast and now serves as a chilling reminder.

Right next to it you’ll find the sprawling Peace Park and the fantastic Peace Museum with a modest admission of 200 JPY. Inside you’ll see personal belongings of the victims and photographs that will leave no one unmoved, so have your tissues ready.

Today, though, Hiroshima is a beautiful and modern city with trundling trams and wide boulevards. Definitely don’t miss the local style of okonomiyaki pancakes, which here, unlike in Osaka, are made with a layer of noodles.

13. The Floating Red Gate on Miyajima Island

From Hiroshima you can take a short ferry to Miyajima island, one of the most photogenic places in the country. Right by the shore stands the famous floating torii gate belonging to the Itsukushima shrine, both UNESCO-listed.

At high tide, the gate and part of the shrine look as if they’re really floating on the water. At low tide, on the other hand, you can walk across the muddy seabed right up to its massive wooden pillars.

Entry to the shrine itself costs a pleasant 300 JPY. Here too you’ll meet freely roaming deer, but unlike in Nara, feeding them is strictly forbidden.

14. Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchiko

For many people, seeing the iconic snow-capped peak of Mount Fuji is the main reason for the trip. The best views are offered by the Fuji Five Lakes area, specifically Lake Kawaguchiko, which you can reach by bus from Tokyo.

A short distance away lies the famous Chureito Pagoda with a dreamy view, where you’ll take the most iconic photo of Japan — the red five-storey pagoda, the majestic Mount Fuji behind it, and in spring, all of it framed by cherry blossoms.

Climbing the 3,776-metre mountain itself is only possible from July to mid-September. Outside this season you’ll have to settle for admiring it from afar, because the summit is covered in dangerous ice.

15. Hakone, Hot Springs and Pirate Ships

If you don’t fancy Kawaguchiko, a great alternative for Fuji views is the spa region of Hakone. It’s recommended to buy the handy Hakone Free Pass, which covers all the local transport including cable cars and mountain railways.

This area is famous for its onsen hot springs and the sulphurous Owakudani valley, where everything bubbles and reeks of rotten eggs. You can even buy eggs boiled in the sulphur water here, which have a completely black shell and supposedly extend your life.

Across the local Lake Ashi, replicas of pirate ships cruise about, which does feel like an enormous piece of kitsch, but the ride is included in the pass mentioned above, and on a clear day you’ll have a superb view of Mount Fuji from the deck.

16. Richly Decorated Shrines in Nikko

About two hours by train north of Tokyo lies the mountain town of Nikko, home to some of the most ornate temples in the country. The most important is the lavish Toshogu mausoleum, a UNESCO-listed site where the famous shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu is buried.

While most Japanese temples go for simplicity, here you won’t know where to look first thanks to the ever-present gold and vividly coloured wood carvings, including the famous three wise monkeys.

Beyond the monuments, the Nikko area lures visitors with stunning nature, especially in autumn. Head out to Lake Chuzenji and the imposing Kegon Waterfall, which plunges 97 metres down.

17. Kanazawa and the Perfect Kenrokuen Garden

On the west coast lies Kanazawa, a city that suffered no bombing during the war and has kept plenty of historic districts. Its main jewel is the breathtaking Kenrokuen garden with an admission of 320 JPY, officially ranked among the three most beautiful in Japan.

Lovers of traditional atmosphere will adore the old geisha district of Higashi Chaya, full of ancient wooden tea houses. Kanazawa is a huge centre for gold-leaf production, so you can even buy ice cream wrapped in edible gold here.

Also worth seeing is the historic Nagamachi samurai district, where you can wander through narrow lanes lined with the original earthen walls of samurai residences.

18. Takayama and the Thatched Roofs of Shirakawa-go

The little town of Takayama in the mountains of Gifu prefecture is famous for its perfectly preserved old town of Hida, where excellent sake rice wine is made. In the morning you’ll come across picturesque farmers’ markets full of local ingredients.

From here you can easily reach the famous UNESCO-protected village of Shirakawa-go by bus, which looks straight out of the Middle Ages. It’s home to dozens of unique gassho-zukuri houses with incredibly steep thatched roofs designed to withstand heavy snow.

💡 Tip: If you come here in winter, the village holds famous evening illuminations, when the snow-covered cottages are beautifully lit up. It’s a fairy tale, but you’ll need to secure a special reservation well in advance.

19. Alpine Hiking in the Japanese Alps

If you’re looking to escape the big cities and love nature, the Kamikochi valley in the Japanese Alps will completely win you over. It sits at around 1,500 metres above sea level and offers the most beautiful mountain scenery in the country.

To protect the environment, private cars are strictly banned here, so you have to leave your vehicle at a park-and-ride and take a shuttle bus. The heart of the area is the wooden Kappa-bashi bridge over the turquoise Azusa river.

The area is only open from mid-April to mid-November; in winter the roads are buried under metres of snow. You’ll find easy flat walks here as well as demanding multi-day treks across the surrounding three-thousanders.

20. The Magical Cemetery and Temples on Mount Koya-san

The sacred mountain of Koya-san is the centre of Shingon Buddhism and one of the most spiritual places you’ll visit. Its greatest pride is the enormous, mystical Okunoin cemetery, where over 200,000 moss-covered gravestones lie beneath centuries-old cedars.

As already mentioned in the accommodation section, this is exactly where you must pay for a shukubo temple stay. Not only will you see how the monks live, but you’ll also taste their precise vegan cuisine, which is a culinary art in itself.

An evening walk through the cemetery lit only by stone lanterns is incredibly mysterious, but not scary at all. In the morning you can then join the monks in a fire-burning ritual.

21. The Art Island of Naoshima

In the Seto Inland Sea lies the island of Naoshima, which has transformed into an enormous open-air gallery of modern art. You get here by ferry from the ports of Uno or Takamatsu, and the best way to explore is to rent an e-bike.

The island’s icon is the famous giant yellow polka-dot pumpkin by artist Yayoi Kusama, which sits right on the pier by the sea. Most of the museums here were designed by the brilliant Japanese architect Tadao Ando, known for his work with exposed concrete.

The absolute highlight is the underground Chichu Art Museum, lit only by natural light and displaying original works by Claude Monet. You must reserve tickets for this museum well in advance for a specific time slot.

Where to Go Next from Japan

If you want to plan out specific days in the cities in more detail, we’ve prepared separate, in-depth guides for the individual metropolises. In them you’ll find exact routes and how the sights connect to one another.

• If you’re drawn to the modern metropolis and its hidden corners, check out our article Tokyo: 25 Things to See.
• For lovers of tradition, zen gardens and temples, I recommend reading the detailed guide Kyoto: What to See.
• If you’re going for great food and neon lights, be sure to open the article Osaka and a Trip to Nara.
• For a better idea of the weather and seasons, read the detailed breakdown When to Go to Japan.
• And if you’re worried about logistics and how the trains work, the article Japan for the First Time: JR Pass and Practical Tips will help you.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re planning a trip to Japan, Kyoto in Japan is probably the main reason you’re so excited about it. The former capital is exactly the kind of destination where your image of traditional Japan, with wooden temples and blooming cherry trees, becomes reality. You’ll find thousands of breathtaking shrines here, picturesque zen gardens, and narrow lanes where geisha quietly slip by in the evening.

But Kyoto is also a city that has been experiencing an enormous surge of tourists in recent years. To truly enjoy its magic without drowning in the crowds, you need to plan smart and know where to head before everyone else. I really recommend getting up early in the morning, because the sight of an empty bamboo grove is absolutely worth it.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through 18 tips for the most beautiful places in Kyoto that you definitely shouldn’t miss. On top of that, I’ll add practical advice on transport, tips on fantastic vegetarian food, and show you where to base yourself strategically.

TL;DR

• Fushimi Inari Taisha and Kinkaku-ji are absolute essentials — head to them right at opening time.
• The historic Gion district has introduced strict rules; since 2024, entering the private lanes is banned under threat of a fine.
• Vegetarians will be spoiled here — Kyoto is famous for its monastic shojin ryori cuisine and excellent tofu.
• Getting around by bus can be slow; it’s often worth combining the subway and trains, or renting a bicycle.
• The ideal time to visit is spring and autumn, but be prepared for the absolute peak of tourist season.
• Book your accommodation well in advance — capacity near the station and in the Gion district disappears incredibly fast.

When to visit Kyoto

The most beautiful, yet also the busiest time to visit Kyoto is spring and autumn. At the turn of March and April, the city comes alive with blooming cherry blossoms (full bloom usually lasts just 7 to 10 days). In autumn, the trees turn a deep red, with the peak of the so-called momiji season usually arriving in late November and early December.

If you decide to travel during these months, brace yourself for enormous crowds and high accommodation prices. Temples and gardens are bursting at the seams, so it’s absolutely essential to head to the most popular sights between six and eight in the morning. On the other hand, after 5 p.m. the city empties surprisingly quickly, which you can use brilliantly for more peaceful strolls.

Summer in Kyoto tends to be very hot and humid, since the city sits in a basin where heavy, moist air lingers. From June to August there are gorgeous summer festivals, but exploring the sights takes a lot of energy and a constant supply of fluids. Winter, by contrast, is very quiet and cold, which makes it ideal for travellers who prefer emptier streets and lower prices.

Where to stay in Kyoto

💡 Tip for accommodation and experiences: We love searching for places to stay on Booking.com, where you usually get the best cancellation terms. Tickets, tours, and activities are then worth comparing and buying through GetYourGuide.

Choosing the right location is absolutely crucial for your stay in Kyoto, as it saves you a lot of time getting around. The most strategic spot is the area around Kyoto Station, from where trains and buses run in all directions, or the busier centre around Karasuma and Kawaramachi stations. But if you’re after that genuine historic atmosphere, look for accommodation in the Gion or Higashiyama districts.

When searching on Booking, I recommend reserving rooms even half a year in advance, especially if you’re travelling during cherry blossom season. The city offers everything from modern hotels to traditional Japanese inns called ryokan. I’ve picked out a few specific tips for you that rank among the very best rated.

If you want to treat yourself to absolute luxury, Ritz-Carlton Kyoto is top of the line, with impeccable service and views over the Kamogawa River. A night here can cost more than 80,000 JPY (around €480), but the experience of blending modern design with Japanese tradition is said to be unforgettable.

Lovers of traditional accommodation should definitely try Yuzuya Ryokan Gion, located right in the heart of the historic district. For around 30,000 to 50,000 JPY per night (roughly €180–300), you’ll also get a luxurious kaiseki-style dinner, sleep on futons, and relax in a traditional bath scented with yuzu citrus.

A great middle-ground option with wonderful aesthetics is Hotel SOWAKA, a beautiful boutique hotel in the Higashiyama district. It was created by renovating an old Japanese restaurant and offers an incredibly quiet retreat just a few steps from the busiest sights.

For travellers on a smaller budget, a fantastic choice is Piece Hostel Kyoto, which you’ll find near the main station. This is no ordinary hostel — it stands out with its clean, modern design, and you can get private rooms from just 4,000 to 6,000 JPY per night (around €24–36), which is a great price by Kyoto standards.

18 Things to See and Do in Kyoto

Let’s take a look together at the most beautiful places and experiences Kyoto has to offer — from iconic red gates to hidden zen gardens. I’ll also give you advice on how to avoid the worst crowds and where to eat brilliantly as a vegetarian.

1. Fushimi Inari Taisha and thousands of red gates

The Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine is probably the most iconic image from all of Japan. Here you’ll find thousands of vermilion-red torii gates lined up tightly along a forest path leading all the way to the summit of the sacred Mount Inari. It’s a fascinating spectacle, and it’s completely free to enter and open 24 hours a day.

The best way to get here is by taking the JR Nara Line train from Kyoto Station. You get off at Inari Station, which takes just about five minutes, and the temple complex is right across from the station. Since this is the most visited sight, I recommend arriving ideally around six in the morning.

Most tourists take photos right at the start of the path, where the crowds literally jam up. 💡 Tip: If you push on and walk uphill for about 15 to 20 minutes, the crowds start to magically melt away and you’ll get to enjoy the magical atmosphere of the gates all to yourself. The whole loop to the summit and back takes about two to three hours, and along the way you’ll meet plenty of stone fox statues, considered messengers of the deity Inari.

2. Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion)

If there’s one building that will literally take your breath away with its splendour, it’s definitely the Golden Pavilion, known as Kinkaku-ji. The top two floors of this zen temple are completely covered in gold leaf, and on sunny days they reflect beautifully on the surface of the adjacent pond.

The temple is open from 9:00 to 17:00, and admission costs 500 JPY (around €3), payable in cash only. From the main station, you can get here on buses 101 or 205 in just under 40 minutes. The temple grounds are fairly small and the walking route is one-way, so unfortunately there isn’t much room to escape the other visitors.

The best strategy is to be at the entrance gate before opening time, so you can see the temple in as much peace as possible. The visit itself won’t take more than an hour, since you’re not allowed inside the pavilion and can only admire the view from the outside.

3. Arashiyama and the famous bamboo grove

The Arashiyama district on the western edge of the city is another absolute gem of Kyoto. Take the JR Sagano Line train from Kyoto Station and you’ll be there in about 15 minutes, getting off at Saga-Arashiyama Station. The main draw here is the iconic bamboo grove, where a narrow path winds through towering green stalks that soar high into the sky.

The bamboo grove is open around the clock and free of charge, but it’s actually fairly short and you can walk through it in 10 to 15 minutes. That’s exactly why it gets so crowded, so head here at first light. Right next to the grove lies the gorgeous Tenryu-ji temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where entry to the gardens costs 500 JPY (around €3) and you’ll pay another 300 JPY to see the buildings.

If you’re a vegetarian, you’ll find the celebrated Shigetsu restaurant inside Tenryu-ji. It serves traditional monastic shojin ryori cuisine, which is purely vegan and has even earned a Michelin Green Star. Prices for this culinary work of art range from 3,000 to 9,000 JPY (around €18–54), and it’s said to be one of the best dining experiences in all of Japan. Don’t forget to also cross the wooden Togetsukyo Bridge and hike up to the Iwatayama Monkey Park for 800 JPY.

4. The wooden terrace of Kiyomizu-dera temple

The Kiyomizu-dera temple rises on a hill above the city, and its main highlight is a huge wooden terrace built without a single nail. It offers a fantastic view over all of Kyoto, and admission to the grounds costs 500 JPY (around €3).

The temple opens as early as 6:00 in the morning and closes at 18:00, though during the spring and autumn seasons it hosts popular evening illuminations. Buses 206 and 100 run here from the station to the Gojozaka stop. The path to the temple leads through the beautiful historic lanes of Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka, lined with traditional wooden houses, teahouses, and souvenir shops.

💡 Tip: Come here very early in the morning, or just before sunset. During the day, the approach lanes get so packed that you can only shuffle slowly through the crowd. Beneath the main terrace you’ll find the Otowa Waterfall, where visitors scoop up water with long ladles for health, success, or love.

5. Gion and the mysterious world of geisha

Gion is Kyoto’s most famous geisha district (here they’re called geiko) and home to their apprentices, the maiko. The main artery is Hanami-koji street, where you’ll find the most luxurious traditional restaurants and okiya teahouses. The atmosphere of the district is utterly unique, especially at dusk when the paper lanterns light up and the streets take on a nostalgic glow.

In recent years, however, the situation with tourists has gotten out of hand. Since 2019, there’s been a strict ban on photography in the private lanes, under threat of a 10,000 JPY fine. Due to unruly visitors behaving like paparazzi, the private lanes of southern Gion have been completely closed to tourists since April 2024.

So when strolling through Gion, always stick to the main public streets and respect the privacy of the local residents. If you’re lucky enough to spot a geiko or maiko, never block their path or try to photograph them up close. The easiest way to reach Gion is by taking the Keihan railway to Gion-Shijo Station.

6. Ginkaku-ji and the romantic Philosopher’s Path

Although Ginkaku-ji translates as the Silver Pavilion, unlike its golden sibling it was never actually covered in silver. This zen temple offers a much more understated and subtle kind of beauty that perfectly embodies the Japanese aesthetic of wabi-sabi. The grounds include a stunning dry sand garden, meticulously raked into the shapes of mountains and waves.

Admission costs 500 JPY (around €3) and it’s open from 8:30 to 17:00. You can get here on buses 5 or 17 — just get off at the Ginkakuji-michi stop. The famous Philosopher’s Path begins right by the temple, running about two kilometres alongside a narrow canal.

This walk is an absolute hit during the spring cherry blossom bloom, when hundreds of trees form a pink tunnel over the water. The path is named after the Kyoto philosopher Nishida Kitaro, who used to walk here to meditate. Along the way you’ll come across plenty of little cafés and craft shops where you can pause for a while.

7. Nijo Castle and its nightingale floors

Nijo Castle served as the Kyoto residence of the powerful Tokugawa shoguns, and its architecture is deliberately a demonstration of immense power. Don’t expect a tall tower like at other Japanese castles — this is more of a sprawling complex of beautifully decorated single-storey palaces. Basic admission to the grounds costs 800 JPY (around €5), but definitely buy the combined ticket with Ninomaru Palace for 1,300 JPY.

The biggest attraction of Ninomaru Palace is the so-called nightingale floors, which quietly chirp with every step. This ingenious system worked as an ancient security alarm against creeping ninjas and assassins. Walking across them in your socks and listening to the gentle chirping is a truly unusual experience.

The castle is open from 8:45 to 16:00, and the easiest way to reach it is via the Tozai subway line. You get off right at Nijojo-mae Station and see the castle moat as soon as you exit. The grounds are surrounded by beautiful gardens, known for their plum trees that bloom as early as late February and early March.

8. The Kyoto Imperial Palace and the vast Gyoen park

Until 1868, when the capital moved to Tokyo, the Kyoto Imperial Palace was home to the Japanese imperial family. The palace complex sits in the middle of the enormous Kyoto Gyoen park, which acts as the green lungs of the entire city. Entry to both the palace and the park is completely free, which is a welcome rarity in Kyoto.

While the park is always open, the palace itself has opening hours until 16:00 or 17:00 depending on the season, and it’s usually closed on Mondays. You used to have to apply for a tour well in advance, but nowadays you can simply enter the grounds after a security check of your bags at the entrance gate.

You can’t go inside the buildings, but you can admire the stunning traditional architecture and manicured courtyards up close. If you want to learn more about the history, free tours with an English-speaking guide take place every day at 10:00 and 14:00. The nearest subway stop is Marutamachi Station on the Karasuma line.

9. Culinary exploration at Nishiki Market

Nishiki Market is often nicknamed “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” and it’s a roughly 400-metre-long, narrow, covered street packed with food. Here you’ll find more than a hundred small stalls and shops selling everything from pickled tsukemono vegetables to all kinds of sweets and quality teas. Entry is free and most stalls open between 9:00 and 10:00 in the morning, closing around 18:00.

Vegetarians will be spoiled here, because Kyoto is famous for its soy products. Be sure to try the fantastic soy doughnuts, creamy matcha ice cream, dango rice dumplings, or a specialty called yuba, a delicate skin from soy milk. 💡 Tip: If you’re having soups or noodles, always ask whether they contain dashi (fish stock), which in Japan is added to almost everything.

Local rules are fairly strict, and eating while walking is strictly forbidden. At each stall where you buy a treat on a skewer, there’s a designated small area where you must eat your food calmly and dispose of the rubbish right there. The market lies just a short walk from Shijo subway station, so it’s very easy to reach from any part of the city.

Lukáš and Lucie recommend

Where to stay in Kyoto

5 accommodations — hotels, wellness hotels and other lodging options

⭐ TOP CHOICE ⭐ Luxury

Ritz-Carlton Kyoto

Absolute luxury with impeccable service and views of the Kamogawa River. A blend of modern design and Japanese tradition.

★★★★ from 80,000 JPY/night

Check availability 🏡 Ryokan

Yuzuya Ryokan Gion

Traditional ryokan in the heart of the historic Gion district. Luxurious kaiseki-style dinners, sleeping on futons and a traditional bath scented with yuzu citrus.

★★★★ from 30,000 to 50,000 JPY/night

Check availability 🏨 Boutique Hotel

Hotel SOWAKA

Beautiful boutique hotel in the Higashiyama district. Created by renovating an old Japanese restaurant, it offers an incredibly peaceful haven just steps away from the busiest attractions.

★★★★ Check prices

Check availability 🏨 Hostel

Piece Hostel Kyoto

Modern clean hostel near the main station. Features modern design and offers great prices for private rooms.

★★★★ from 4,000 to 6,000 JPY/night

Check availability 🔍 Search

View all accommodations in Kyoto

Explore all available accommodation options in Kyoto and find the best one according to your preferences and budget.

★★★★ Compare prices

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10. An evening stroll down Pontocho alley

If you’re looking for a place with the best evening atmosphere, head to the narrow Pontocho alley, which runs parallel to the Kamogawa River between Shijo and Sanjo streets. This cobbled lane is literally packed with restaurants, traditional bars, and teahouses, lit up after dark by dozens of red paper lanterns.

The atmosphere here is much more relaxed than in the more formal Gion. During the summer months, restaurants build wooden terraces over the river called kawayuka, where you can enjoy dinner with a view of the flowing water and a pleasant breeze. It’s a wonderful culinary experience, though prices on these terraces tend to be a bit higher.

The easiest way to get here is on foot from Keihan Gion-Shijo Station. The restaurants here offer everything from luxury dining to affordable noodles, so there’s something for everyone. If you don’t eat meat, I recommend scouting out vegetarian spots in advance, because many traditional restaurants in this alley specialise in meat dishes — which we’ll gladly skip, but it’s good to know for orientation.

11. Tofuku-ji and its breathtaking autumn colours

Tofuku-ji is one of the largest zen complexes in Kyoto and is often unfairly overlooked by tourists. While it’s pleasantly quiet in spring, from mid-November this place transforms into the most sought-after spot for admiring red maples (momiji).

The biggest draw is the wooden Tsutenkyo Bridge, which spans a deep little valley. When the trees turn fiery red and orange in autumn, the view from the bridge looks like a scene from a fairy tale. Admission to the bridge costs 600 JPY, the gardens 500 JPY, and a combined ticket is 1,000 JPY (during the autumn peak, however, the price for just the bridge rises to 1,000 JPY).

The temple lies very strategically in the south of the city — just get off at Tofukuji Station on the JR Nara Line, which is only one stop from Kyoto’s main station. 💡 Tip: Combine your visit to Tofuku-ji with a trip to Fushimi Inari — both sights lie on the same train line and can be perfectly done in a single morning.

12. A thousand and one statues in Sanjusangen-do

If you want to experience something truly unique, head to the Sanjusangen-do temple. Its main hall measures an impressive 120 metres and is considered the longest wooden building in all of Japan. Inside awaits a sight that will send shivers down your spine.

In the dimly lit hall stand, in perfect rows, 1,001 gilded life-sized statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. In the middle of them enthrones one huge central statue, and each of the thousand smaller statues is said to have a slightly different facial expression. Admission to the temple is 600 JPY, and you can get here on buses 100, 206, or 208 from the main station.

It’s important to know that photography is strictly forbidden inside the main hall. Perhaps that’s exactly why this place retains such an incredibly mystical and quiet atmosphere, because visitors aren’t staring at their screens but truly sensing the energy of the space. Outside, you can then explore the garden and the targets where archery tournaments are traditionally held.

13. Ryoan-ji and the secret of the zen garden

When someone says “zen garden,” most people familiar with Japan picture Ryoan-ji. This UNESCO-listed temple hides the most famous dry garden, made up of nothing but white sand and fifteen rocks. Admission to the grounds costs 600 JPY, and buses 50 or 55 run here from the centre.

The garden is designed with an absolutely ingenious optical illusion. No matter where you sit on the wooden veranda, you’ll never see all 15 rocks at once. One is always hidden behind the others, which in zen Buddhism symbolises human imperfection and the fact that we can never grasp the whole of reality.

For the place to truly wash over you with calm, I recommend arriving right at eight in the morning. During the day, the veranda fills with crowds and quiet contemplation turns into a battle for a place to sit. The temple lies fairly close to the Golden Pavilion, Kinkaku-ji, so it makes sense to combine both places into one sightseeing route.

14. Kennin-ji and the dragons on the ceiling

Right on the edge of the bustling Gion district hides Kennin-ji, the very oldest zen temple in Kyoto, founded back in 1202. Surprisingly, it’s nowhere near as crowded as other spots, and it offers a perfect oasis of calm in the middle of the tourist bustle. Admission is 800 JPY and it’s open from 10:00 to 17:00.

The temple’s most famous feature is a huge, dramatic painting of two intertwined dragons that covers the entire ceiling of the main hall. It was only created in 2002 for the 800th anniversary of the temple’s founding, but it looks incredibly majestic and ancient.

Unlike other temples, here you’re allowed to photograph almost all the interiors and artworks. You can sit calmly on the tatami, watch the precisely maintained inner courtyard, and enjoy a moment of silence before diving back into the hustle of Gion’s lanes, which lie literally around the corner.

15. Nanzen-ji and the unexpected brick aqueduct

The Nanzen-ji temple complex lies at the foot of the eastern mountains and ranks among the most important zen temples in all of Japan. Entry to the sprawling outdoor grounds is free — you only pay to enter the individual sub-temples and gardens (usually around 600 JPY). The easiest way to get here is from Keage subway station on the Tozai line.

Right at the entrance you’ll be struck by the massive wooden Sanmon gate, which you can climb for a fee to enjoy a lovely view. Even more intriguing, though, is the brick Suirokaku aqueduct that runs right through the temple grounds. This 19th-century structure looks more like Roman architecture and creates a fascinating contrast with the traditional Japanese temples.

For vegetarians, Nanzen-ji is an absolute must, because the area around the temple is famous for preparing yudofu. This is very delicate boiled tofu served in a hot broth made from kombu seaweed, which you dip into a soy sauce with spring onion. I recommend visiting the Nanzenji Junsei restaurant, where you can savour this traditional dish in the beautiful setting of an old garden.

16. A trip to the mountain villages of Kurama and Kibune

If you want to escape the city bustle, set off on a half-day trip into the mountains north of Kyoto. Take the Eizan Railway train from Demachiyanagi Station and you’ll reach the village of Kurama in about half an hour. From there, a beautiful forest trail leads over the mountain to the neighbouring village of Kibune, covering roughly 4 kilometres, which you can manage at a slow pace in two to three hours.

Along the way you’ll pass through the sprawling mountain complex of Kurama-dera temple, where you’ll pay a small 500 JPY fee for mountain upkeep. The trail leads over the roots of ancient cedars, and local legends claim that mythical creatures called tengu with long noses live in these forests. ⚠️ Note: The well-known outdoor Kurama Onsen baths have unfortunately been closed for some time.

When you descend into the village of Kibune, you’ll find yourself in a narrow valley beside a wild river. In the summer months, restaurants here build special terraces called kawadoko right over the flowing water, where you can enjoy a meal in wonderful coolness. Even without a meal, a walk through both villages is magical and shows you a completely different face of the Kyoto region.

17. Experiencing a traditional tea ceremony

Kyoto is the very heart of Japanese tea culture, and taking part in a tea ceremony is one of the loveliest experiences you can take home from here. It’s not just about drinking tea — it’s a deeply meditative process full of precise movements, respect, and harmony that helps you understand the Japanese mindset.

There are plenty of places to try a ceremony, but I recommend always booking your spot in advance online, for instance through GetYourGuide. The Camellia teahouse near Ninenzaka street, for example, has excellent reviews, where for roughly 4,000 to 5,000 JPY (around €24–30) you’ll experience a ceremony led in perfect English with an explanation of every step.

If you want to take the experience up a notch, you can try houses like Maikoya in Gion, where they’ll also lend you a traditional kimono for the ceremony. This package costs 7,000 to 8,400 JPY (around €42–50). During the ceremony, thick whisked matcha tea is served, along with a traditional Japanese sweet called wagashi, which is meant to balance the tea’s slightly bitter taste (and is almost always purely vegan).

18. A stroll in a traditional kimono

Strolling through Kyoto’s historic lanes in a kimono or a light summer yukata is hugely popular among visitors, and the Japanese warmly welcome it. There are dozens of rental shops around the city, with the highest concentration in the Higashiyama district and around Gion.

Established chains like Wargo or Yumeyakata offer basic packages from just 3,300 to 4,500 JPY per day (around €20–27). The price usually includes the dressing, which is a complex process in itself, and often basic hair styling too. 💡 Tip: Book your slot on GetYourGuide right at opening time in the morning, so you get the widest choice of patterns and colours.

Once you’re dressed in your kimono, head off to take photos in the Ninenzaka lanes or by the Kiyomizu-dera temple. But bear in mind that walking in traditional geta wooden sandals is fairly hard on the feet, and you probably won’t manage to walk around in a kimono from morning till night, so plan this experience for half a day at most.

Where to go next from Kyoto

If you have several days in Kyoto and have already explored the main sights, the surrounding area offers fantastic options for day trips. An absolute classic is the trip to see the deer, which I describe in detail in the article Osaka and a trip to Nara. The train journey to Nara takes just under an hour.

Another great tip is the town of Uji, which lies just 20 minutes by train south of Kyoto (on the JR Nara line). It’s the capital of Japanese green tea, and you absolutely must see the Byodo-in temple with its famous Phoenix Hall, which you might recognise from the Japanese ten-yen coin. Admission costs 700 JPY, and the matcha tastings on every corner are utterly unforgettable.

When you’re planning your other journeys around Japan, be sure to check out our overview in the article Japan Holiday: The Complete Guide, where you’ll find all the practical information in one place. And if you’re heading to the capital, you’ll find inspiration for the best spots in the guide Tokyo: 25 Things to See.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re planning a trip to Japan, you’ve probably already got Tokyo and ancient Kyoto on your radar, but Osaka, Japan is a completely different world that would be a huge shame to miss. While Kyoto is quiet, traditional and packed with temples, Osaka is loud, incredibly lively and glows with neon colours long into the night. It’s known as the “kitchen of Japan,” and according to many travellers, it has the most laid-back atmosphere in the entire country.

Osaka works as an absolutely ideal strategic base for exploring the whole Kansai region. You can stay here for a few days, enjoy cheaper and more accessible hotels than in neighbouring Kyoto, and head out on day trips every day. That’s exactly why this guide includes not only tips for the city itself, but also a detailed plan for a half-day or full-day escape to magical Nara to meet the sacred deer.

You’ve got the buzzing Dotonbori district, the stunning Osaka Castle and the crazy world of Universal Studios waiting for you. In the lines below, I’ll show you in detail what to see and do in Osaka, how transport works here, where to base yourself strategically, and what to watch out for if you eat vegetarian.

TL;DR

• Best base: The Namba district (south) for lovers of nightlife and food, or Umeda (north) for a quieter stay and excellent transport links.
• Main attractions: The neon-lit Dotonbori street, historic Osaka Castle and the retro Shinsekai district with its observation tower.
• Theme park: Universal Studios Japan with the Super Nintendo World area requires buying tickets and an Express Pass ideally two months in advance.
• Trip to Nara: You can be there in 40 minutes by train from Osaka. The giant wooden Todai-ji temple and over a thousand free-roaming deer await, and you can feed them special crackers.
• Transport and discounts: For getting around the city, the digital Osaka Amazing Pass is worth it, offering unlimited metro rides and entry to dozens of attractions.
• Vegetarian food: Watch out carefully for dashi (the ever-present fish stock), but definitely try the vegetarian version of the okonomiyaki savoury pancake.

When to Visit Osaka

The most beautiful time to visit is, without a doubt, Japanese spring, specifically the turn of March and April. This is when cherry blossoms bloom across the whole city, and the park around Osaka Castle, for example, turns into a sea of pink. For 2026, full bloom is estimated around 2 April, but the dates shift slightly each year depending on the current weather.

Another great option is autumn, particularly late October and mid-November. Temperatures are very pleasant for a full day of walking around the city, and the maple leaves turn deep shades of red. Winter in Osaka tends to be fairly mild, and on top of that, you’ll snag flights and accommodation at much friendlier prices without the ever-present crowds.

I would definitely not recommend travelling in summer, especially in July and August. The Japanese summer is extremely hot and, above all, unbearably humid, which can turn sightseeing into a pretty exhausting ordeal. Keep in mind, too, that Osaka recently hosted Expo 2025, so interest in the city is enormous and you should sort out accommodation at least three to four months ahead.

Where to Stay in Osaka

💡 Tip for accommodation and experiences: We prefer to look for places to stay on Booking.com, where the cancellation terms tend to be the best. For tickets, tours and activities, it pays to compare and book through GetYourGuide.

When choosing where to stay in Osaka, you’ll probably be deciding between two main centres: the northern Kita area (around Umeda station) and the southern Minami area (around Namba station). The Namba district is the absolute heart of entertainment, nightlife and street food, so if you want to step straight out of your hotel into the neon streets, it’s the obvious choice.

The Umeda area, by contrast, is a little quieter, more modern and functions as a huge transport hub. This is where the fastest trains to Kyoto, Kobe and Tokyo depart from. Whichever of these two districts you choose, you can’t go wrong, because both are brilliantly connected by the main Midosuji metro line.

• Toyoko Inn Osaka Namba: If you’re after budget-friendly accommodation, this hotel chain is a Japanese classic. The rooms are tiny but clean, a simple Japanese breakfast is usually included, and the location near Namba is absolutely unbeatable.
• Cross Hotel Osaka: A great mid-range choice right by the famous Dotonbori street. It offers modern and, by Japanese standards, fairly spacious rooms. You can walk everywhere, and on Booking.com this place has consistently top-notch reviews for cleanliness and helpful staff.
• Conrad Osaka: For those who want genuine luxury and breathtaking views, this five-star hotel on Nakanoshima island is just the ticket. It boasts huge floor-to-ceiling glass walls, a gorgeous pool and first-class service that will satisfy even the most demanding travellers.

14 Things to See and Do in Osaka and Nara

Let’s take a look together at the very best this metropolis has to offer. Osaka can be beautifully covered in two packed days, with the third day set aside for the trip to nearby Nara.

While you can devote one day to the south of the city and to food, you’ll spend the other at the castle or among the modern high-rises. Don’t forget to pick up either the classic rechargeable ICOCA card for getting around, or explore the perks of the digital Osaka Amazing Pass, which will save you a lot of money on entry fees.

1. Osaka Castle and Its Sprawling Park

This is the absolute symbol of the whole city and a place that simply looks magnificent in photos. The current five-storey tower actually dates from the 20th century (the original from the 16th century was destroyed), but it rises majestically above the moats and enormous walls.

While entry to the surrounding park is completely free, you’ll pay 1,200 JPY to visit the main tower (careful — in 2025 the price shot up sharply from the original 600 yen). Inside you’ll find a history museum, and the top floor offers a fantastic view of the city’s modern skyline.

💡 Tip: Come here first thing in the morning, around nine o’clock, before the crowds from organised tours arrive. The nearest metro stop is Tanimachi 4-chome, or the JR train station Osakajo-koen.

2. The Neon-Lit Dotonbori Street

If you’ve seen a single photo of Osaka, chances are it was from right here. Dotonbori is a buzzing street running along the canal of the same name, literally studded with giant glowing signs and moving billboards.

The main star here is the famous Glico Man runner, a huge 20-metre-tall neon sign that has been glowing here since 1935. Another iconic spot is the giant mechanical crab Kani Doraku, which moves its claws right above the heads of passers-by.

You’ll experience the best atmosphere here after dark, when all the neon lights up and reflects on the surface of the canal. Try to snap the iconic photo from the Ebisubashi bridge, or head out on a short sightseeing boat ride right along the water, which is a wonderful experience.

3. The Retro Shinsekai District and Tsutenkaku Tower

While elsewhere in Japan modernity and hi-tech rule, the Shinsekai district seems frozen in the first half of the 20th century. It was built modelled on Paris and New York, but today it has more of a wonderfully weathered, nostalgic and slightly crazy feel.

The district’s landmark is the 103-metre-tall steel Tsutenkaku tower, which you can ride up for around 1,000 JPY and enjoy the view from the open observation deck. Along the way you’ll meet countless statues of a grinning little god named Billiken — locals believe that stroking his feet brings good luck.

Shinsekai is also considered the home of kushikatsu deep-fried skewers. Although it’s typically a meaty affair, places like Daruma or Yaekatsu have plenty of vegetable and cheese varieties (the fried aubergine, pumpkin or camembert are excellent). Remember the strict rule — you must never dip a skewer into the shared sauce bowl twice!

4. Kuromon Ichiba Market

This nearly 600-metre-long covered market is nicknamed “Osaka’s kitchen.” You’ll find more than 150 stalls that have been supplying local chefs and eager tourists with the freshest ingredients and ready-made delicacies for almost 200 years.

Entry to the market is free, and it’s busiest between nine in the morning and five in the afternoon. You can get here easily from Nippombashi metro station (exit number 10). Locals here most often buy seafood and Kobe beef, but you’ll also find some great meat-free options.

For vegetarians, there are incredibly sweet fruit sundaes, traditional mochi sweets, delicious vegetable tempura or the sweet egg omelette tamagoyaki. But watch out carefully for the ever-present dashi fish stock, which in Japan gets added even to seemingly meat-free dishes, so always ask to be safe.

5. Umeda Sky Building and the Floating Garden

This is an architectural gem from the early 1990s that will amaze you at first glance. Two enormous towers are connected at a height of 173 metres by a circular observation deck, romantically called the Floating Garden Observatory.

Entry costs around 1,500 JPY, and a glass escalator takes you up, seemingly hanging in mid-air. It’s not for those afraid of heights, but the view over the whole of Osaka is well worth it, plus the roof is completely open with no distracting windows.

💡 Tip: The ideal time to arrive is about an hour before sunset. You’ll see the city in daylight, and within a moment the whole metropolis will light up with millions of tiny lights before your eyes. From Osaka/Umeda station it’s about a 10-minute walk.

6. Universal Studios Japan (USJ)

If you love film worlds or Nintendo, set aside a whole day for this theme park. Universal Studios Japan in Osaka is one of the most visited parks in the world, and you won’t manage without careful planning ahead. The basic Studio Pass will set you back 8,900 to 10,900 JPY depending on the season.

The biggest hit right now is Super Nintendo World with the amazing Mario Kart ride and the newly opened Donkey Kong Country zone (from late 2024). It’s precisely because of this area that the park is absolutely packed to bursting.

You must buy tickets online well in advance, for example through GetYourGuide. To avoid queuing for hours, travellers warmly recommend also buying the so-called Express Pass (from 9,800 JPY), which guarantees you timed entry straight into the popular Nintendo zone.

7. Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade

When it starts raining in Osaka, the more than 600-metre-long covered Shinsaibashi-suji arcade is the best possible rescue. You’ll find over 180 shops here, from international chains to traditional Japanese boutiques, cosmetics pharmacies and tea houses.

The arcade has been running since the Edo period, and today tens of thousands of people pass through it daily. Entry is, of course, free, and most shops open around ten or eleven in the morning and close only around eight or ten in the evening.

The arcade starts right at Shinsaibashi metro station and leads you seamlessly all the way to neon-lit Dotonbori. It’s the ideal place to buy Japanese souvenirs, clothes or crazy KitKat flavours.

Lukáš and Lucie recommend

Where to stay in Osaka

4 accommodations — wellness hotels, hotels and other lodging options

⭐ TOP CHOICE 🏨 Hotel

Toyoko Inn Osaka Namba

Affordable budget accommodation, a classic Japanese hotel with small but clean rooms. Simple Japanese breakfast is included and the location near Namba is absolutely unbeatable.

★★★★ Check prices

Check availability 🏨 Hotel

Cross Hotel Osaka

Great mid-range choice right by the famous Dotonbori street. Offers modern and quite spacious rooms by Japanese standards. Consistently excellent reviews for cleanliness and helpful staff.

★★★★ Check prices

Check availability ⭐ Luxury

Conrad Osaka

True luxury and breathtaking views. This five-star hotel on Nakanoshima Island features huge glass walls, a beautiful pool and first-class service for the most discerning travelers.

★★★★★ Check prices

Check availability 🔍 Search

View all accommodations in Osaka

Explore all available accommodation options in Osaka and find the best one according to your preferences and budget.

★★★★ Compare prices

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8. Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine

If you want to escape the noise and modern buildings, head to one of the oldest Shinto shrines in all of Japan. It’s built in the unique sumiyoshi-zukuri architectural style, which emerged before the influence of the Asian mainland reached Japan.

The main visual draw of the complex is the steep, bright-red Taikobashi bridge, which arches elegantly over the water. Its reflection in the water forms a perfect circle, and photos from here look absolutely magical.

Entry to the complex is free, and it opens as early as 6:00 in the morning (the main gate then closes around 16:00). I recommend coming here as early as possible in the morning, when there’s a wonderful calm. You can get here on the Nankai trains or the old, romantic Hankai tram line.

9. Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

One of the largest and most respected aquariums in the world can be found in Osaka’s harbour, in the area known as the Bay Area. It’s not just an ordinary display of fish, but a breathtaking journey from the surface of the Pacific Ocean all the way to the seabed.

The main highlight is the huge central tank representing the Pacific, in which a whale shark swims majestically — one of the few kept in captivity in the world. The building has a unique spiral design, so as you tour, you gradually descend floor by floor.

A ticket costs around 2,700 JPY, and I warmly recommend buying an e-ticket with a timed slot in advance. This way you’ll avoid pointless queues. Near the aquarium, by Osakako metro station, you’ll also find the giant Tempozan Ferris wheel, which offers a lovely view over the whole harbour.

10. Namba District and Den Den Town

Namba is the absolute heart of southern Osaka and a place that’s simply alive around the clock. Besides having plenty of restaurants and shops, it’s also an important transport hub where the Nankai Rapi:t train arrives directly from KIX international airport.

Definitely worth a visit is the architecturally striking Namba Parks complex, whose cascading rooftop gardens resemble a green canyon in the middle of the concrete jungle. It’s a great spot for a coffee and a rest.

Just nearby is the Nipponbashi area, nicknamed Den Den Town. It’s Osaka’s answer to Tokyo’s Akihabara district. You’ll find countless electronics shops here, along with manga, anime figurines and crazy retro video games.

Day Trip to Nara: How to Get There

From Osaka it would be a real sin not to spend at least half a day in nearby Nara, which was Japan’s first permanent capital. It’s an incredibly easy-going trip that you can handle by train on your own without any trouble.

The most practical option is to use the Kintetsu Nara Line, which you board at Osaka-Namba station. Rapid Express trains will take you to Kintetsu-Nara station in about 39 minutes for 680 JPY. This station is much closer to the main park than the competing JR line.

If you have a nationwide JR Pass, you can take the JR Yamatoji Line train from Tennoji station for 510 JPY (about 30 minutes). Just bear in mind that from JR Nara station it’s about a 15 to 20-minute walk to the park, or you’ll have to hop on a bus.

11. Nara Park and the Sacred Deer

As soon as you arrive in Nara and head towards the parks, you’ll immediately come across the city’s main stars. Around 1,200 free-roaming sika deer live here, considered messengers of the gods in Shinto and holding the status of a national treasure.

Entry to the sprawling park is 24/7 and completely free. Along the paths you’ll find stalls selling special rice crackers (shika senbei) for around 200 JPY. Never feed the deer anything else! Some of them are so clever they’ve learned to bow when you show them a cracker.

⚠️ Important warning: However cute they look, these are wild animals. They can bite, headbutt or kick you if you don’t hand over the food quickly enough. Be especially careful in autumn of the more aggressive males in rut and of does with fawns. When you run out of crackers, hold up your empty palms in front of you — the deer will understand you have nothing left and move on.

12. Todai-ji Temple and the Great Buddha

If you only have time for one single monument in Nara, it absolutely has to be Todai-ji. This temple is on the UNESCO list, and its main hall, the Daibutsuden, is among the largest wooden buildings in the world, even though today’s reconstruction is a third smaller than the original.

Entry costs 800 JPY, and a breathtaking sight awaits you inside. Here sits a huge, 15-metre-tall bronze Buddha (Daibutsu), whose creation once nearly bankrupted the Japanese economy.

Behind the Buddha statue itself, there’s a wooden pillar with a hole near the ground. This hole is nicknamed “Buddha’s nostril,” and legend has it that whoever can crawl through it will attain enlightenment in their next life. It’s quite narrow, so it’s mostly children who give it a go.

13. Kasuga Taisha Shrine and Thousands of Lanterns

On the way from the Great Buddha, you can venture deeper into the forest, where you’ll find the most important Shinto shrine in Nara. Kasuga Taisha (also UNESCO-protected) is renowned for its gorgeous lanterns, which line the approach paths and the buildings themselves.

On the path to the shrine you’ll pass hundreds of moss-covered stone lanterns, while inside the complex, elegant bronze versions hang from vermilion-red beams. You can walk through the outer grounds for free, but entry to the inner courtyard costs 700 JPY.

All these lanterns are lit only twice a year during special festivals (in February and mid-August). Incidentally, the deer around this forest shrine tend to be much calmer and shyer than the aggressive scroungers right at the park entrance.

14. Isuien Garden

To round off the trip, I recommend escaping the crowds and visiting the classic Japanese Isuien Garden. A ticket costs 1,200 JPY (which also includes entry to the small Neiraku museum), and inside you’ll be met with pure zen and harmony.

The garden is divided into two parts with picturesque ponds and is a perfect example of the gardening technique called shakkei, or “borrowed scenery.” The architects cleverly arranged the trees so that they visually incorporated the surrounding hills and the roof of the nearby Todai-ji temple into the scenery.

In the garden you can enjoy a traditional matcha tea with a view over the water. Keep in mind that the grounds are usually closed on Tuesdays. Opening hours are from 9:30 to 16:30, so come here before your early-evening train ride back to Osaka.

Where to Go Next from Osaka

Osaka has an absolutely fantastic location for onward travel. If you have a valid JR Pass, you can hop on the super-fast shinkansen and be admiring the beautiful white Himeji Castle in under an hour, or continue further south and devote a day to an emotional visit to Hiroshima.

The city also almost merges with its more famous neighbour. If you want to immerse yourself in a traditional atmosphere full of geishas and zen gardens, read our article on what to see in Kyoto. You can be there from Osaka by train in under half an hour.

And if you’re still planning your whole dream trip and getting lost in everything there is to sort out, we’ve put together a comprehensive complete guide to a holiday in Japan, where you’ll find all the practical information from visas to etiquette.

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