While Tokyo and Kyoto are the two most important tourist destinations in Japan, there are several other interesting places that are worth a visit.

One such interesting destination is Hiroshima, a city that has virtually risen from ashes after getting decimated completely due world’s first nuclear bomb attack during World War II. Hiroshima Peace Memorial is the most famous war memorial located in Hiroshima, symbolizing the destruction caused by the atom bomb. Another important place to visit is the Peace Memorial Museum that houses details about the events that led to the attack.

Hokkaido Island of Japan is a nature’s paradise with most of its area being protected as national parks. Filled with fantastic volcanoes, ‘bottomless’ crater lakes, hot springs and numerous mountain and ski resorts, Hokkaido is also home for Japan’s indigenous Ainu tribe. Diasetsuzan National Park is Japan’s largest national park located in central Hokkaido.

Another premier tourist destination in Japan is the Mount Fuji, the highest mountain peak in Japan with a perfectly symmetrical volcanic cone. There are various hiking trails on either sides of the mountain. Considered as a dormant volcano, Mt. Fuji can be climbed during summer season. Situated around Mt. Fuji is the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, a recreational paradise offering hot spring resorts, golf courses and facilities for fishing, hiking, camping, swimming and boating.

Apart from being the commercial hub of Japan, the city of Osaka is also recognized around the world for its exquisite Japanese cuisine, historic Osaka Castle, performing arts of Kabuki and Bunraku, theme park and impressive aquarium. Universal Studios Japan and Osaka Aquarium are both located in this city.

Shikoku, the smallest of Japan’s four main islands, is known for its pilgrimage circuit of 88 temples dedicated to Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy. Also present on the island are the attractive city of Takamatsu, the historic and beautiful Ritsorin Park and the mountain top Kotohira Shrine. The islands of Kyushu and Okinawa also offer a variety of tourist attractions including national parks, caves, coral reefs, clear turquoise seas, fine beaches, white sands, water sports, hot-sand saunas, hot spring resorts, temples, shrines and amusement parks.