Six beautiful Japanese cities to explore for deep dive into culture, history

According to its article, National Geographic features that Japan is filled with  ancient cities and towns, each offering its own distinct appeal from former samurai strongholds to quaint wooden shops, sake and beer breweries, as well as art galleries and offbeat museums. 

For those seeking culture and history, Kyoto is hard to surpass, but its dense concentration of temples and heritage architecture has led to large crowds and high costs. Here are six hidden gems that offer a mix of history, beauty, and unique experiences that will make any trip to Japan unforgettable.

1. Kurashiki
   Nestled along the Seto Inland Sea, Kurashiki’s Bikan historical district is one of Japan’s most picturesque spots. With its cobbled streets and willow-lined canal, visitors can enjoy a peaceful boat ride or explore the charming wooden machiya townhouses and white-painted kura storehouses. The city is also the birthplace of Japan’s denim industry, with specialty shops offering local denim, cozy cafes, and traditional izakaya bars.

Top tip: Be sure to check out Bizen ware, a distinctive local pottery style that dates back to the 14th century and is still sold throughout the city.

2. Nara
   Just a short trip from Kyoto, Nara makes for a great day trip or an even more rewarding overnight stay. Once Japan’s capital before Kyoto, the city became the political center in the 8th century due to the rising influence of its Buddhist monasteries. Today, the temples remain the city's main attraction. Stroll through Nara’s historic district to discover vast shrine complexes, beautiful gardens, a quaint geisha and entertainment area, and, of course, the famous free-roaming sacred deer.

Top tip: Be sure to visit Nigatsu-do temple last. It offers the best sunset views in the city and is especially stunning when its lanterns are lit at dusk.

3. Kanazawa
   Often referred to as "Little Kyoto," Kanazawa, the capital of Ishikawa Prefecture, boasts charming geisha districts, temples, and gardens. However, its appeal goes beyond that, with a well-preserved samurai district and a wealth of museums and galleries, including the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art. The city is also famous for producing nearly 98 per cent of Japan’s gold leaf, which appears in everything from crafts to hotel decor and even snacks.

Top tip: Don't miss the D.T. Suzuki Museum, dedicated to the renowned 20th-century Buddhist philosopher. The museum’s minimalist architecture and tranquil Water Mirror Garden are standout features.

4. Hiraizumi
   In the 12th century, Hiraizumi in Tohoku was a powerful and splendid rival to Kyoto. Today, it remains one of the best places to explore temples from that era and offers engaging historical events. A must-see is Motsuji Temple, which hosts a variety of cultural experiences: a poetry festival with period costumes in May, tea ceremonies amidst the temple’s 30,000 iris blooms in June, and performances by gagaku court musicians during the bush clover bloom in September.

Top tip: Hiraizumi is perfect for exploring by bike—rentals, including e-bikes, are available near the train station.

5. Matsumoto
   Nestled in central Honshu, Matsumoto is surrounded by the breathtaking Japan Alps. The striking black keep of Matsumoto Castle, set against snow-capped mountains, is one of Japan’s most iconic images. Visitors can also enjoy woodblock prints at the Japan Ukiyo-e Museum and explore the independent shops, eateries, and craft beer brewery housed in the historic storehouses of the Nakamachi district.

Top tip: Matsumoto is home to some delightful small museums. Be sure to visit the Matsumoto Timepiece Museum and the Matsumoto Folk Craft Museum.

6. Matsue
   Matsue, alongside Matsumoto, is home to one of Japan's few remaining original castles, dating back to the early 17th century. Located in Shimane Prefecture in southwest Japan, the city is also known for its well-preserved samurai district, which includes the residence of Lafcadio Hearn. Hearn, a European writer who lived in Matsue from 1890, was one of the first to document Japan after its period of international isolation (1639-1853). Matsue also boasts two stunning gardens: Yushien, situated on an island in Lake Nakaumi, and the Adachi Museum of Art garden, considered one of Japan’s finest.

Top tip: Enjoy a peaceful wooden boat ride along the castle moat and canals, with departures approximately every half hour throughout the day.

By Naila Huseynova