Nikko
#7 in Best Places in Japan
Nikko is the place to go to see lavish architecture surrounded by nature. Head to Nikko National Park, one of Japan’s oldest national parks, to enjoy an up-close look at traditional structures situated alongside mountains, lakes, waterfalls and hot springs. The park is especially beautiful in fall when its trees display vivid shades of yellow, red and orange. In total, you’ll discover 103 UNESCO World Heritage-listed temples and shrines in Nikko, including world-renowned sites like Toshogu Shrine and Rinnoji Temple.
Furano
#8 in Best Places in Japan
Furano’s two biggest attractions are its slopes and its flowers. In winter, the town’s 24 ski runs – which are designed to suit skiers of all levels – are blanketed in about 30 feet of powder. Meanwhile, summer is when Furano’s lavender fields burst with color. One of the best places to see the fragrant blooms is Farm Tomita, where you can tour lavender fields in an open-air tractor carriage and sample lavender-flavored treats like tea and ice cream.
