# Japan Starter (https://japanstarter.com)

> The friendly start-here guide for your first trip to Japan. Independent, source-linked Japan travel portal covering all 832 Japanese cities across 47 prefectures, 25 flagship destination guides, 30 practical travel guides, 6 ready-made itineraries, and 14 interactive trip-planning calculators.

- Canonical URL: https://japanstarter.com/
- Full AI Knowledge Base: https://japanstarter.com/llms-full.txt
- Sitemap Index: https://japanstarter.com/sitemap-index.xml
- Primary Sitemap (1638 pages): https://japanstarter.com/sitemap.xml
- RSS 2.0 Feed: https://japanstarter.com/feed.xml
- JSON Feed: https://japanstarter.com/feed.json
- Sister Travel Portal: [Italy Starter — Complete Italy & 7,896 Comuni Guide](https://italystarter.com/)

## Core Hubs & Directories
- [Home](https://japanstarter.com/): Start-here overview for first-time and returning visitors to Japan.
- [All 25 Flagship Destinations](https://japanstarter.com/destinations/): Neighborhood, hotel, rail, and day-trip breakdowns for Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, Hokkaido, Okinawa, and more.
- [Japan City Directory (832 Cities & 47 Prefectures)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/): Complete prefecture-by-prefecture and city-by-city directory across Japan.
- [Practical Japan Travel Guides (30)](https://japanstarter.com/guides/): Visa & entry, JR Pass & Shinkansen, Suica/Pasmo IC cards, cash & ATMs, eSIM/Wi-Fi, onsen & shrine etiquette, luggage forwarding (Takkyubin).
- [Ready-Made Japan Itineraries (6)](https://japanstarter.com/itineraries/): Day-by-day rail routes from 7-day highlights to 21-day grand tours.
- [14 Free Interactive Japan Trip Tools](https://japanstarter.com/tools/): Calculators for trip budgets, Shinkansen fares, JR Pass break-even, luggage sizes, yen conversion, and seasonal weather.
- [Things to Do by Interest](https://japanstarter.com/things-to-do/): Curated guides for anime/pop culture, temples/history, food/ramen, hiking/nature, onsen, and nightlife.
- [Japan Travel Blog](https://japanstarter.com/blog/) & [Frequently Asked Questions](https://japanstarter.com/faq/)

## Flagship Destination Guides
- [Tokyo (東京) Travel Guide](https://japanstarter.com/destinations/tokyo/): Neon districts, quiet shrines and the world's deepest food scene. (Region: Kanto; Best time: undefined; Ideal stay: undefined; Daily mid-range budget: ¥22,000).
- [Kyoto (京都) Travel Guide](https://japanstarter.com/destinations/kyoto/): Temples, gardens, geisha districts and centuries of tradition. (Region: Kansai; Best time: undefined; Ideal stay: undefined; Daily mid-range budget: ¥22,000).
- [Osaka (大阪) Travel Guide](https://japanstarter.com/destinations/osaka/): Japan's kitchen: street food, nightlife and big-city energy. (Region: Kansai; Best time: undefined; Ideal stay: undefined; Daily mid-range budget: ¥22,000).
- [Sapporo & Hokkaido (札幌・北海道) Travel Guide](https://japanstarter.com/destinations/sapporo-hokkaido/): Powder snow, flower fields, seafood and wide-open nature. (Region: Hokkaido; Best time: undefined; Ideal stay: undefined; Daily mid-range budget: ¥22,000).
- [Hiroshima & Miyajima (広島・宮島) Travel Guide](https://japanstarter.com/destinations/hiroshima/): A city of peace, okonomiyaki, and the floating torii of Miyajima. (Region: Chugoku; Best time: undefined; Ideal stay: undefined; Daily mid-range budget: ¥22,000).
- [Nara (奈良) Travel Guide](https://japanstarter.com/destinations/nara/): Japan's first permanent capital — giant Buddha and bowing deer. (Region: Kansai; Best time: undefined; Ideal stay: undefined; Daily mid-range budget: ¥22,000).
- [Okinawa (沖縄) Travel Guide](https://japanstarter.com/destinations/okinawa/): Subtropical islands, coral reefs and a distinct Ryukyu culture. (Region: Okinawa; Best time: undefined; Ideal stay: undefined; Daily mid-range budget: ¥22,000).
- [Fukuoka (福岡) Travel Guide](https://japanstarter.com/destinations/fukuoka/): Yatai street stalls, tonkotsu ramen and a gateway to Kyushu. (Region: Kyushu; Best time: undefined; Ideal stay: undefined; Daily mid-range budget: ¥22,000).
- [Nagoya (名古屋) Travel Guide](https://japanstarter.com/destinations/nagoya/): Castle, craftsmanship and bold local food in central Japan. (Region: Chubu; Best time: undefined; Ideal stay: undefined; Daily mid-range budget: ¥22,000).
- [Kanazawa (金沢) Travel Guide](https://japanstarter.com/destinations/kanazawa/): Gold leaf, geisha teahouses and one of Japan's great gardens. (Region: Hokuriku; Best time: undefined; Ideal stay: undefined; Daily mid-range budget: ¥22,000).
- [Hakone & Mt Fuji (箱根・富士山) Travel Guide](https://japanstarter.com/destinations/hakone-mt-fuji/): Hot springs, lakes and views of Japan's sacred mountain. (Region: Kanto / Chubu; Best time: undefined; Ideal stay: undefined; Daily mid-range budget: ¥22,000).
- [Nikko (日光) Travel Guide](https://japanstarter.com/destinations/nikko/): Lavish shrines in cedar forests, waterfalls and mountain lakes. (Region: Kanto; Best time: undefined; Ideal stay: undefined; Daily mid-range budget: ¥22,000).
- [Yokohama (横浜) Travel Guide](https://japanstarter.com/destinations/yokohama/): Harbour views, Japan's biggest Chinatown and easy day trips from Tokyo. (Region: Kanto; Best time: undefined; Ideal stay: undefined; Daily mid-range budget: ¥22,000).
- [Kamakura (鎌倉) Travel Guide](https://japanstarter.com/destinations/kamakura/): The Great Buddha, Zen temples, hiking trails and the beach — an hour from Tokyo. (Region: Kanto; Best time: undefined; Ideal stay: undefined; Daily mid-range budget: ¥22,000).
- [Takayama (高山) Travel Guide](https://japanstarter.com/destinations/takayama/): Edo-era merchant streets, morning markets and Hida beef in the Japanese Alps. (Region: Chubu; Best time: undefined; Ideal stay: undefined; Daily mid-range budget: ¥22,000).
- [Shirakawa-go (白川郷) Travel Guide](https://japanstarter.com/destinations/shirakawa-go/): A UNESCO village of steep thatched farmhouses in the mountains of Gifu. (Region: Chubu; Best time: undefined; Ideal stay: undefined; Daily mid-range budget: ¥22,000).
- [Kobe (神戸) Travel Guide](https://japanstarter.com/destinations/kobe/): Port city of Kobe beef, sake breweries, mountain views and Arima Onsen. (Region: Kansai; Best time: undefined; Ideal stay: undefined; Daily mid-range budget: ¥22,000).
- [Himeji (姫路) Travel Guide](https://japanstarter.com/destinations/himeji/): Japan's most spectacular original castle, an easy trip from Osaka or Kyoto. (Region: Kansai; Best time: undefined; Ideal stay: undefined; Daily mid-range budget: ¥22,000).
- [Miyajima (宮島) Travel Guide](https://japanstarter.com/destinations/miyajima/): The 'floating' torii gate, sacred mountain hikes and friendly deer. (Region: Chugoku; Best time: undefined; Ideal stay: undefined; Daily mid-range budget: ¥22,000).
- [Matsumoto (松本) Travel Guide](https://japanstarter.com/destinations/matsumoto/): A black original castle, alpine views and the gateway to Kamikochi. (Region: Chubu; Best time: undefined; Ideal stay: undefined; Daily mid-range budget: ¥22,000).
- [Kawaguchiko & Fuji Five Lakes (河口湖・富士五湖) Travel Guide](https://japanstarter.com/destinations/kawaguchiko-fuji-five-lakes/): Lakeside views of Mt Fuji, the Chureito Pagoda and hot spring stays. (Region: Chubu; Best time: undefined; Ideal stay: undefined; Daily mid-range budget: ¥22,000).
- [Naoshima & the Art Islands (直島) Travel Guide](https://japanstarter.com/destinations/naoshima/): World-class contemporary art on a sleepy island in the Seto Inland Sea. (Region: Shikoku; Best time: undefined; Ideal stay: undefined; Daily mid-range budget: ¥22,000).
- [Sendai (仙台) Travel Guide](https://japanstarter.com/destinations/sendai/): The 'City of Trees', grilled beef tongue and the gateway to Tohoku. (Region: Tohoku; Best time: undefined; Ideal stay: undefined; Daily mid-range budget: ¥22,000).
- [Kagoshima (鹿児島) Travel Guide](https://japanstarter.com/destinations/kagoshima/): A city facing an active volcano, with sand baths, samurai gardens and black pork. (Region: Kyushu; Best time: undefined; Ideal stay: undefined; Daily mid-range budget: ¥22,000).
- [Nagasaki (長崎) Travel Guide](https://japanstarter.com/destinations/nagasaki/): A harbour city of trade, faith and peace, with sparkling night views. (Region: Kyushu; Best time: undefined; Ideal stay: undefined; Daily mid-range budget: ¥22,000).

## Interactive Trip-Planning Tools (14 Calculators)
- [Japan Trip Budget Calculator | Japan Starter](https://japanstarter.com/tools/budget-calculator/)
- [JR Pass Value Helper | Japan Starter](https://japanstarter.com/tools/jr-pass-calculator/)
- [Japan Seasonal Travel Calendar | Japan Starter](https://japanstarter.com/tools/seasonal-calendar/)
- [Japan Packing List Generator | Japan Starter](https://japanstarter.com/tools/packing-list/)
- [Yen Converter for Japan Travel | Japan Starter](https://japanstarter.com/tools/yen-converter/)
- [Which Region of Japan Suits You? Quiz | Japan Starter](https://japanstarter.com/tools/region-quiz/)
- [Shinkansen Fare & Route Calculator | Japan Starter](https://japanstarter.com/tools/shinkansen-calculator/)
- [Japanese Travel Phrasebook & Allergy Show-Cards | Japan Starter](https://japanstarter.com/tools/phrasebook/)
- [Japan Jet Lag & Sleep Shift Planner | Japan Starter](https://japanstarter.com/tools/jet-lag-planner/)
- [Suica / Pasmo IC Card vs. Subway Day Pass Calculator | Japan Starter](https://japanstarter.com/tools/ic-card-calculator/)
- [Japan Luggage Size, Shinkansen 160cm Rule & Locker Checker | Japan Starter](https://japanstarter.com/tools/luggage-checker/)
- [Japan Etiquette, Tipping & Dress Code Quick-Checker | Japan Starter](https://japanstarter.com/tools/etiquette-checker/)
- [Japan Power Plug (Type A) & 100V Voltage Compatibility Checker | Japan Starter](https://japanstarter.com/tools/plug-voltage-checker/)
- [Japan Day-by-Day Itinerary Builder | Japan Starter](https://japanstarter.com/tools/itinerary-builder/)

## Essential Travel Guides
- [First Trip to Japan: Planning Checklist](https://japanstarter.com/guides/first-time-in-japan-checklist/): A step-by-step checklist for your first trip to Japan — from passports and entry forms to rail passes, money, connectivity and bookings.
- [Japan Visa & Entry Requirements Explained](https://japanstarter.com/guides/visa-and-entry/): Who needs a visa for Japan, how visa exemption works, Visit Japan Web, customs, and what to have ready at immigration. Always confirm with official sources.
- [JR Pass & Rail Travel in Japan: Complete Guide](https://japanstarter.com/guides/jr-pass-and-rail-travel/): How Japan's rail network works, what the nationwide JR Pass covers, how to reserve Shinkansen seats, and how to decide whether a pass is worth it for your route.
- [IC Cards in Japan: Suica, PASMO, ICOCA & Mobile](https://japanstarter.com/guides/ic-cards-suica-pasmo/): How Japan's rechargeable IC transit cards work, where to buy them, mobile Suica/PASMO/ICOCA on your phone, Welcome Suica for visitors, and what they can be used for.
- [Airport Transfers in Japan: Narita, Haneda, Kansai & More](https://japanstarter.com/guides/getting-from-the-airport/): How to get from Japan's main airports into the city — trains, limited express services, buses and taxis — with typical journey times.
- [Money in Japan: Cash, Cards, ATMs & Tipping](https://japanstarter.com/guides/money-cash-and-atms/): How to pay in Japan — where cards work, which ATMs accept foreign cards, how much cash to carry, tipping customs, and tax-free shopping.
- [Staying Connected in Japan: eSIM, SIM Cards & Pocket Wifi](https://japanstarter.com/guides/sim-esim-and-pocket-wifi/): Compare eSIMs, prepaid SIM cards, pocket wifi rentals and roaming for Japan, and learn where to find free wifi.
- [Japanese Etiquette for Visitors: Do's and Don'ts](https://japanstarter.com/guides/etiquette/): A practical guide to manners in Japan — shoes, trains, temples and shrines, eating, chopsticks, onsen, rubbish and photography.
- [How Much Does a Trip to Japan Cost? Budget Breakdown](https://japanstarter.com/guides/budget-breakdown/): Approximate daily costs in Japan for budget, mid-range and luxury travellers — accommodation, food, transport and sightseeing — plus ways to save.
- [Japan Packing List: What to Bring (and What to Leave)](https://japanstarter.com/guides/packing-list/): A season-by-season Japan packing list, including power adapters, shoes, medicines, and tips for packing light for train travel.
- [Best Time to Visit Japan: Seasons, Cherry Blossoms & Autumn Leaves](https://japanstarter.com/guides/seasons-cherry-blossom-autumn-foliage/): A season-by-season guide to Japan's weather, cherry blossom and autumn foliage timing by region, rainy and typhoon seasons, and national holiday crowds.
- [Japan Festivals Calendar: Matsuri Month by Month](https://japanstarter.com/guides/festivals-calendar/): Major Japanese festivals (matsuri) by month — from the Sapporo Snow Festival to Kyoto's Gion Matsuri and Aomori Nebuta — with typical dates. Confirm dates each year.
- [Japanese Food Guide: What to Eat and How to Order](https://japanstarter.com/guides/food-guide/): The dishes to try in Japan, regional specialities, types of restaurants, how to order with ticket machines, dietary needs, and dining etiquette.
- [Onsen Guide: How to Use Japanese Hot Springs](https://japanstarter.com/guides/onsen-guide/): Step-by-step onsen etiquette, the difference between onsen and sento, tattoo policies, private baths, and some of Japan's famous hot-spring towns.
- [Where to Stay in Japan: Hotels, Ryokan, Capsules & More](https://japanstarter.com/guides/accommodation-types/): Compare Japan's accommodation types — business hotels, ryokan, capsule hotels, hostels, minshuku, temple stays and vacation rentals — and what to expect from each.
- [Is Japan Safe? Safety, Health & Natural Disaster Tips](https://japanstarter.com/guides/safety/): Japan safety for travellers: crime, earthquakes, typhoons, heat, emergency numbers, medical care, and how to get help in English.
- [Essential Japanese Phrases for Travellers](https://japanstarter.com/guides/japanese-phrases/): Useful Japanese phrases for greetings, restaurants, shopping, directions and emergencies — with romaji and simple pronunciation notes.
- [Staying in a Ryokan: Etiquette, Costs & What to Expect](https://japanstarter.com/guides/ryokan-guide/): What a ryokan stay includes, how much it costs, check-in to check-out etiquette, yukata, kaiseki dinners, shared and private baths, and how to choose one.
- [Tax-Free Shopping in Japan: How It Works for Tourists](https://japanstarter.com/guides/tax-free-shopping/): Who can shop tax-free in Japan, minimum spend, consumables vs general goods, the switch to a refund-style system, and tips for department stores and drugstores.
- [Accessible Travel in Japan: Wheelchair & Mobility Guide](https://japanstarter.com/guides/accessible-travel/): How accessible Japan is for wheelchair users and travellers with limited mobility: trains, staff assistance, hotels, sights, toilets and planning tips.
- [Vegetarian, Vegan & Allergy-Friendly Eating in Japan](https://japanstarter.com/guides/vegetarian-vegan-and-allergies/): Hidden fish stock, what to order, useful Japanese phrases, shōjin ryōri, apps and convenience-store options for vegetarians, vegans and travellers with food allergies.
- [Tattoos in Japan: Onsen, Gyms, Beaches & Etiquette](https://japanstarter.com/guides/tattoos-and-onsen/): Why some onsen and pools ban tattoos, how to find tattoo-friendly baths, private baths, cover-up stickers, and what to expect at gyms, beaches and ryokan.
- [Japan on a Budget: 30 Ways to Save Money](https://japanstarter.com/guides/japan-on-a-budget/): Practical ways to cut costs on accommodation, transport, food and sightseeing in Japan — without missing the highlights.
- [How to Book Shinkansen Tickets & Seats Online](https://japanstarter.com/guides/shinkansen-seat-reservations/): Booking Shinkansen tickets online with smartEX, JR East and JR West, reserving seats with a JR Pass, choosing the Mt Fuji side, oversized luggage seats and Green Car.
- [Skiing & Snowboarding in Japan: Resorts, Seasons & Costs](https://japanstarter.com/guides/ski-and-snow/): When the ski season runs, the main regions (Niseko, Hakuba, Nozawa Onsen, Shiga Kogen), getting there, lift pass and rental costs, and onsen après-ski.
- [Rainy Season & Typhoons in Japan: When They Hit and How to Plan](https://japanstarter.com/guides/rainy-season-and-typhoons/): When tsuyu rainy season and typhoon season occur in each region, how they affect travel, the Japan Meteorological Agency's warnings, and backup plans.
- [Driving in Japan: Car Rental, International Driving Permits & Road Rules](https://japanstarter.com/guides/driving-and-car-rental/): Whether you can drive in Japan with your licence, the International Driving Permit, renting a car, tolls and ETC cards, parking, and key road rules.
- [Visiting Temples & Shrines: Etiquette, Goshuin and What's the Difference](https://japanstarter.com/guides/temples-and-shrines/): The difference between Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples, how to purify and pray, goshuin stamp books, omikuji fortunes, ema and photography rules.
- [Regional Rail Passes in Japan: Which One Should You Buy?](https://japanstarter.com/guides/regional-rail-passes/): An overview of Japan's regional JR passes — Kansai, Kansai-Hiroshima, Hokuriku Arch, JR East, Hokkaido, Kyushu and Takayama-Hokuriku — and when each makes sense.
- [Solo Travel in Japan: Safety, Dining Alone & Meeting People](https://japanstarter.com/guides/solo-travel/): Why Japan is great for solo travellers, eating alone, women-only options, hostels and capsule hotels, meeting people and staying safe.

## Sample Itineraries
- [7 Days in Japan: First-Timer's Tokyo & Kyoto (7 Days)](https://japanstarter.com/itineraries/7-day-first-timer-tokyo-kyoto/): A focused one-week first trip: four days in Tokyo with a Hakone or Kamakura option, then three days in Kyoto with a half-day in Nara.
- [10 Days in Japan: Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Nara & Osaka (10 Days)](https://japanstarter.com/itineraries/10-day-tokyo-hakone-kyoto-osaka/): The classic Golden Route with an onsen night in Hakone, plenty of Kyoto, a day in Nara and street food in Osaka.
- [14 Days in Japan: The Classic Two-Week Route (14 Days)](https://japanstarter.com/itineraries/14-day-classic-japan/): Two weeks taking in Tokyo, Nikko, Hakone, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Hiroshima and Miyajima — the route where a JR Pass may pay off.
- [Japan with Kids: 10-Day Family Itinerary (10 Days)](https://japanstarter.com/itineraries/family-japan-10-days/): A family-friendly pace with theme parks, aquariums, hands-on museums, deer in Nara and plenty of downtime — Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka.
- [Japan on a Budget: 12-Day Itinerary (12 Days)](https://japanstarter.com/itineraries/budget-japan-12-days/): See Tokyo, Fuji Five Lakes, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka and Hiroshima on a shoestring using highway buses, hostels, free sights and cheap eats.
- [7 Days in Central Japan: Nagoya, Takayama & Kanazawa (7 Days)](https://japanstarter.com/itineraries/7-day-central-japan-alps-hokuriku/): A week through Japan's mountainous heartland — Nagoya, the Kiso Valley post towns, Takayama, Shirakawa-go and Kanazawa.

## All 47 Japanese Prefectures (Directory Links)
- [Hokkaido Prefecture (北海道)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/hokkaido/): Capital Sapporo, Region Hokkaido, Hub Sapporo Station & New Chitose Airport (CTS). Highlights: Vast national parks (Daisetsuzan, Shiretoko, Akan-Mashu), powder ski resorts (Niseko, Furano), volcanic calderas, port towns (Hakodate, Otaru), and Japan's richest seafood and dairy.
- [Aomori Prefecture (青森県)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/aomori/): Capital Aomori, Region Tohoku, Hub Shin-Aomori Station (Tohoku Shinkansen) & Aomori Airport (AOJ). Highlights: Hirosaki Castle cherry blossoms, Lake Towada & Oirase Gorge, Shirakami-Sanchi UNESCO beech forest, Nebuta Matsuri floats, and Tsugaru Strait coastal scenery.
- [Iwate Prefecture (岩手県)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/iwate/): Capital Morioka, Region Tohoku, Hub Morioka Station (Tohoku & Akita Shinkansen). Highlights: UNESCO World Heritage temples of Hiraizumi (Chuson-ji & Motsu-ji), dramatic Geibikei Gorge boat rides, Tono folklore village, and the rugged Sanriku Rias coastline.
- [Miyagi Prefecture (宮城県)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/miyagi/): Capital Sendai, Region Tohoku, Hub Sendai Station (Tohoku Shinkansen) & Sendai Airport (SDJ). Highlights: Pine-clad islands of Matsushima Bay (one of Japan's Three Views), Date Masamune samurai heritage in Sendai, emerald Zao Okama crater lake, and Naruko Onsen.
- [Akita Prefecture (秋田県)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/akita/): Capital Akita, Region Tohoku, Hub Akita Station (Akita Shinkansen) & Akita Airport (AXT). Highlights: Kakunodate samurai district, milky hot springs of Nyuto Onsenkyo, cobalt-blue Lake Tazawa (Japan's deepest lake), Oga Peninsula Namahage folklore, and Shirakami-Sanchi.
- [Yamagata Prefecture (山形県)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/yamagata/): Capital Yamagata, Region Tohoku, Hub Yamagata Station (Yamagata Shinkansen) & Yamagata Airport (GAJ). Highlights: Gas-lit Taisho-era ryokan along the river in Ginzan Onsen, cliffside Yamadera temple (Risshaku-ji), sacred Dewa Sanzan mountains, and Zao Onsen ski slopes.
- [Fukushima Prefecture (福島県)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/fukushima/): Capital Fukushima, Region Tohoku, Hub Koriyama & Fukushima Stations (Tohoku Shinkansen). Highlights: Samurai castle town of Aizu-Wakamatsu, thatched Edo post town of Ouchijuku, volcanic lakes of Urabandai & Mount Bandai, and historic Higashiyama & Iizaka onsen.
- [Ibaraki Prefecture (茨城県)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/ibaraki/): Capital Mito, Region Kanto, Hub Mito Station (JR Joban Line) & Tsukuba Express. Highlights: Hitachi Seaside Park flower hills, Kairakuen (one of Japan's Three Great Gardens), Oarai Isosaki Shrine's ocean torii gate, Mount Tsukuba, and Fukuroda Falls.
- [Tochigi Prefecture (栃木県)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/tochigi/): Capital Utsunomiya, Region Kanto, Hub Utsunomiya Station (Tohoku Shinkansen) & Tobu Nikko Line. Highlights: UNESCO World Heritage shrines and temples of Nikko (Toshogu), Kegon Falls & Lake Chuzenji, Ashikaga Flower Park's giant wisteria, Nasu Highlands, and Mashiko pottery town.
- [Gunma Prefecture (群馬県)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/gunma/): Capital Maebashi, Region Kanto, Hub Takasaki Station (Joetsu & Hokuriku Shinkansen). Highlights: Kusatsu Onsen (famous Yubatake hot-spring field), Ikaho Onsen stone steps, Shima & Minakami Onsen, UNESCO Tomioka Silk Mill, and Takasaki's Daruma dolls.
- [Saitama Prefecture (埼玉県)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/saitama/): Capital Saitama, Region Kanto, Hub Omiya Station (Shinkansen & JR hub). Highlights: Kawagoe 'Little Edo' clay-walled warehouse district, Chichibu mountain shrines & Nagatoro river gorge, the Railway Museum in Omiya, and Omiya Bonsai Village.
- [Chiba Prefecture (千葉県)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/chiba/): Capital Chiba, Region Kanto, Hub Chiba Station, Maihama Station & Narita International Airport (NRT). Highlights: Tokyo Disney Resort (Urayasu), Naritasan Shinshoji Temple, Edo-period canal town of Sawara (Katori), Nokogiriyama cliff carvings, and Boso Peninsula beaches.
- [Tokyo Prefecture (東京都)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/tokyo/): Capital Tokyo (Shinjuku), Region Kanto, Hub Tokyo Station, Shinjuku, Shibuya, Ueno & Haneda Airport (HND). Highlights: 23 historic & futuristic special wards (Asakusa, Shibuya, Shinjuku, Ginza) plus leafy Western Tokyo Tama cities (Kichijoji/Musashino, Mitaka, Tachikawa, Hachioji/Mount Takao).
- [Kanagawa Prefecture (神奈川県)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/kanagawa/): Capital Yokohama, Region Kanto, Hub Yokohama Station, Shin-Yokohama (Tokaido Shinkansen) & Odawara Station. Highlights: Yokohama Minato Mirai & Chinatown, ancient temples and Great Buddha of Kamakura, Enoshima Island, Odawara Castle, and Hakone hot springs overlooking Mt. Fuji.
- [Niigata Prefecture (新潟県)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/niigata/): Capital Niigata, Region Chubu, Hub Niigata Station & Echigo-Yuzawa Station (Joetsu Shinkansen). Highlights: Over 80 sake breweries (including Ponshukan tasting halls), Sado Island gold mines & tub boats, Echigo-Tsumari Art Field, Yahiko Shrine, and Yuzawa/Myoko ski resorts.
- [Toyama Prefecture (富山県)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/toyama/): Capital Toyama, Region Chubu, Hub Toyama Station & Shin-Takaoka Station (Hokuriku Shinkansen). Highlights: Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route & Kurobe Dam, Kurobe Gorge scenic railway, UNESCO-listed Gokayama thatched villages (Nanto), Takaoka Great Buddha, and Toyama Glass Art Museum.
- [Ishikawa Prefecture (石川県)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/ishikawa/): Capital Kanazawa, Region Chubu, Hub Kanazawa Station & Kaga-Onsen Station (Hokuriku Shinkansen). Highlights: Kenroku-en Garden, Higashi Chaya geisha district, Nagamachi samurai lanes, 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Omicho Market, and Kaga Onsenkyo (Yamanaka, Yamashiro, Katayamazu).
- [Fukui Prefecture (福井県)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/fukui/): Capital Fukui, Region Chubu, Hub Fukui Station & Tsuruga Station (Hokuriku Shinkansen). Highlights: Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum (Katsuyama), serene Zen headquarters of Eiheiji Temple, dramatic Tojinbo sea cliffs (Sakai), Maruoka Castle, and Ichijodani Asakura Ruins.
- [Yamanashi Prefecture (山梨県)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/yamanashi/): Capital Kofu, Region Chubu, Hub Kofu Station & Otsuki Station (JR Chuo Line / Fujikyuko Line). Highlights: Northern slopes of Mount Fuji, the Fuji Five Lakes (Kawaguchiko, Yamanakako), Chureito Pagoda (Fujiyoshida), Koshu wine-country vineyards, and Shosenkyo Gorge.
- [Nagano Prefecture (長野県)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/nagano/): Capital Nagano, Region Chubu, Hub Nagano Station (Hokuriku Shinkansen) & Matsumoto Station (JR Azusa). Highlights: Original black-walled Matsumoto Castle, Zenko-ji Temple in Nagano, Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, Nakasendo post towns (Narai-juku, Tsumago, Magome), Kamikochi, and Hakuba/Nozawa Onsen.
- [Gifu Prefecture (岐阜県)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/gifu/): Capital Gifu, Region Chubu, Hub Gifu Station, Gifu-Hashima (Shinkansen) & Takayama Station. Highlights: Preserved Edo streets of Takayama, UNESCO thatched farmhouses of Shirakawa-go, Gero Onsen (one of Japan's Three Famous Springs), Gifu Castle, Gujo Hachiman, and Magome-juku.
- [Shizuoka Prefecture (静岡県)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/shizuoka/): Capital Shizuoka, Region Chubu, Hub Shizuoka, Hamamatsu, Atami & Mishima Stations (Tokaido Shinkansen). Highlights: Southern views of Mount Fuji (Miho no Matsubara, Nihondaira, Fujinomiya), Izu Peninsula hot springs and coastline (Atami, Ito, Shimoda, Shuzenji), and Hamamatsu.
- [Aichi Prefecture (愛知県)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/aichi/): Capital Nagoya, Region Chubu, Hub Nagoya Station (Tokaido Shinkansen) & Chubu Centrair Airport (NGO). Highlights: Nagoya Castle & Atsuta Shrine, Ghibli Park (Nagakute), original hilltop Inuyama Castle, Toyota industrial & automotive museums, Tokoname & Seto pottery towns, and Okazaki.
- [Mie Prefecture (三重県)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/mie/): Capital Tsu, Region Kansai, Hub Iseshi, Toba, Kuwana & Tsu Stations (JR & Kintetsu Limited Express). Highlights: Ise Jingu (Japan's most sacred Shinto shrine complex) and Okage Yokocho lane, Meoto Iwa (Wedded Rocks), Toba pearl islands, Iga-Ueno ninja castle town, and Suzuka Circuit.
- [Shiga Prefecture (滋賀県)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/shiga/): Capital Otsu, Region Kansai, Hub Otsu, Hikone & Maibara Stations (JR Biwako Line & Tokaido Shinkansen). Highlights: Lake Biwa (Japan's largest freshwater lake), original National Treasure Hikone Castle, Mount Hiei Enryaku-ji UNESCO monastery, Omihachiman canal merchant town, and Shirahige Shrine's floating torii.
- [Kyoto Prefecture (京都府)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/kyoto/): Capital Kyoto, Region Kansai, Hub Kyoto Station (Tokaido Shinkansen, JR, Kintetsu & Subway). Highlights: 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites in Kyoto City, Fushimi Inari & Arashiyama, Uji's Byodoin Temple & tea fields, Amanohashidate sandbar (Miyazu), and Ine funaya boathouses.
- [Osaka Prefecture (大阪府)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/osaka/): Capital Osaka, Region Kansai, Hub Shin-Osaka Station (Shinkansen), Osaka/Umeda, Namba & Kansai Airport (KIX). Highlights: Dotonbori neon canal, Osaka Castle, Kuromon Market, Shinsekai, Universal Studios Japan, Minoo Park waterfall, and Sakai's UNESCO-listed ancient keyhole kofun tombs.
- [Hyōgo Prefecture (兵庫県)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/hyogo/): Capital Kobe, Region Kansai, Hub Shin-Kobe & Himeji Stations (Sanyo Shinkansen) & Sannomiya Station. Highlights: UNESCO World Heritage Himeji Castle, Kobe harbor & Mount Rokko, Arima Onsen (gold & silver waters), willow-lined Kinosaki Onsen, Takeda 'Castle in the Sky' (Asago), and Awaji Island.
- [Nara Prefecture (奈良県)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/nara/): Capital Nara, Region Kansai, Hub Kintetsu-Nara & JR Nara Stations. Highlights: Nara Park's 1,300 sacred deer, Todai-ji Great Buddha, Kasuga Taisha lanterns, Horyu-ji (world's oldest wooden buildings), Asuka ancient capitals, and Mount Yoshino.
- [Wakayama Prefecture (和歌山県)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/wakayama/): Capital Wakayama, Region Kansai, Hub Wakayama Station, Koyasan (Nankai Line) & Shirahama / Kii-Katsuura. Highlights: Sacred mountain monastery of Koyasan (Okunoin Cemetery), UNESCO Kumano Kodo pilgrimage shrines (Kumano Nachi Taisha & Nachi Falls, Hongu Taisha), Wakayama Castle, and Shirahama Onsen.
- [Tottori Prefecture (鳥取県)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/tottori/): Capital Tottori, Region Chugoku, Hub Tottori Station & Yonago Station (JR Super Hakuto Limited Express). Highlights: Sweeping Tottori Sand Dunes & Sand Museum, sacred Mount Daisen ('Fuji of Hoki'), Kurayoshi white-walled storehouses, radium-rich Misasa Onsen, and Sakaiminato's Mizuki Shigeru Road.
- [Shimane Prefecture (島根県)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/shimane/): Capital Matsue, Region Chugoku, Hub Matsue Station & Izumoshi Station (JR Yakumo Limited Express). Highlights: Izumo Taisha (one of Japan's oldest and grandest Shinto shrines), original lakeside Matsue Castle, Adachi Museum of Art (Yasugi), UNESCO Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine (Oda), and Tsuwano.
- [Okayama Prefecture (岡山県)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/okayama/): Capital Okayama, Region Chugoku, Hub Okayama Station (Sanyo Shinkansen junction for Shikoku & San'in). Highlights: Korakuen (one of Japan's Three Great Gardens) and black-walled Okayama Castle, Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter's willow-lined canal, Bitchu-Matsuyama hilltop castle (Takahashi), and Uno Port (gateway to Naoshima).
- [Hiroshima Prefecture (広島県)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/hiroshima/): Capital Hiroshima, Region Chugoku, Hub Hiroshima Station, Fukuyama & Shin-Onomichi (Sanyo Shinkansen). Highlights: Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park & Museum, Miyajima's floating Itsukushima Shrine (Hatsukaichi), hillside port town of Onomichi, the 70 km Shimanami Kaido island cycling route, and Tomonoura harbor (Fukuyama).
- [Yamaguchi Prefecture (山口県)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/yamaguchi/): Capital Yamaguchi, Region Chugoku, Hub Shin-Yamaguchi & Shin-Shimonoseki Stations (Sanyo Shinkansen). Highlights: Five-arched wooden Kintaikyo Bridge in Iwakuni, cliffside red torii of Motonosumi Shrine (Nagato), Samurai castle town of Hagi, Karato Fish Market (Shimonoseki), and Akiyoshido limestone cave (Mine).
- [Tokushima Prefecture (徳島県)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/tokushima/): Capital Tokushima, Region Shikoku, Hub Tokushima Station & Awa-Ikeda Station. Highlights: Giant tidal Naruto Whirlpools (Naruto), remote vine bridges and misty gorges of the Iya Valley (Miyoshi), Awa Odori Kaikan dance hall, and temples #1–#23 of the 88-Temple Shikoku Pilgrimage.
- [Kagawa Prefecture (香川県)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/kagawa/): Capital Takamatsu, Region Shikoku, Hub Takamatsu Station (JR Marine Liner from Okayama) & Takamatsu Port. Highlights: Ritsurin Garden in Takamatsu (one of Japan's finest landscape gardens), Naoshima & Teshima contemporary art islands, 1,368 steps of Kotohira-gu (Konpira-san), and original hilltop Marugame Castle.
- [Ehime Prefecture (愛媛県)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/ehime/): Capital Matsuyama, Region Shikoku, Hub Matsuyama Station (JR Shiokaze Limited Express) & Matsuyama Airport (MYJ). Highlights: Dogo Onsen Honkan (3,000-year-old bathhouse that inspired Spirited Away) & hilltop Matsuyama Castle, the Shimanami Kaido cycling terminus at Imabari, and preserved Edo wax-merchant streets of Uchiko & Ozu.
- [Kōchi Prefecture (高知県)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/kochi/): Capital Kōchi, Region Shikoku, Hub Kōchi Station (JR Nanpu Limited Express) & Kōchi Ryoma Airport (KCZ). Highlights: Original hilltop Kochi Castle, lively Hirome Market food hall, Katsurahama Beach (Sakamoto Ryoma statue), crystal-clear Shimanto River chinkabashi (submersible bridges), and Cape Ashizuri.
- [Fukuoka Prefecture (福岡県)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/fukuoka/): Capital Fukuoka, Region Kyushu, Hub Hakata Station (Sanyo & Kyushu Shinkansen) & Fukuoka Airport (FUK, 5m by subway). Highlights: Nakasu & Tenjin open-air yatai food stalls, Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine & Kyushu National Museum, Yanagawa canal punting boats, Mojiko Retro port in Kitakyushu, and Itoshima coast.
- [Saga Prefecture (佐賀県)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/saga/): Capital Saga, Region Kyushu, Hub Saga Station, Shin-Tosu & Takeo-Onsen (Kyushu & West Kyushu Shinkansen). Highlights: Porcelain towns of Arita, Imari, and Okawachiyama ('Village of the Secret Kilns'), Yutoku Inari Shrine (Kashima), Takeo Onsen Library & Mifuneyama Rakuen, Ureshino green-tea hot springs, and Karatsu Castle.
- [Nagasaki Prefecture (長崎県)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/nagasaki/): Capital Nagasaki, Region Kyushu, Hub Nagasaki Station (West Kyushu Shinkansen Kamome) & Sasebo Station. Highlights: Nagasaki Peace Park, Glover Garden & Dejima Dutch trading post, Mount Inasa ('10-million-dollar night view'), Hashima (Gunkanjima / Battleship Island), Unzen Onsen, Sasebo's Kujukushima islands, and Shimabara Castle.
- [Kumamoto Prefecture (熊本県)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/kumamoto/): Capital Kumamoto, Region Kyushu, Hub Kumamoto Station (Kyushu Shinkansen) & Aso Station. Highlights: Imposing black-walled Kumamoto Castle & Suizenji Jojuen Garden, vast active volcanic caldera of Mount Aso (Kusasenri & Nakadake), cedar-shaded Kurokawa Onsen, and Amakusa dolphin-watching islands.
- [Ōita Prefecture (大分県)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/oita/): Capital Ōita, Region Kyushu, Hub Beppu, Yufuin & Oita Stations (JR Sonic & Yufu-in-no-Mori Limited Express). Highlights: Beppu's 'Eight Hells' (Jigoku Meguri) & sand/mud baths, boutique foot-of-Mount-Yufu resort town of Yufuin, Usa Jingu Shrine, Kitsuki samurai slopes, and Kunisaki Peninsula stone Buddhas.
- [Miyazaki Prefecture (宮崎県)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/miyazaki/): Capital Miyazaki, Region Kyushu, Hub Miyazaki Station & Miyazaki Bougainvillea Airport (KMI). Highlights: Basalt columns and waterfall of Takachiho Gorge, cliff-cave shrine of Udo Jingu (Nichinan), Aoshima Island ('Devil's Washboard' rock formations), and Sun Messe Nichinan's ocean-view Moai statues.
- [Kagoshima Prefecture (鹿児島県)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/kagoshima/): Capital Kagoshima, Region Kyushu, Hub Kagoshima-Chuo Station (Kyushu Shinkansen southern terminus) & Kagoshima Airport (KOJ). Highlights: Smoking volcano of Sakurajima across the bay (15m ferry), Sengan-en samurai garden, Ibusuki natural volcanic sand baths (Sunamushi), Kirishima Onsen, and UNESCO World Heritage island of Yakushima.
- [Okinawa Prefecture (沖縄県)](https://japanstarter.com/cities/prefecture/okinawa/): Capital Naha, Region Okinawa, Hub Naha Airport (OKA), Yui Rail Monorail & Ishigaki / Miyako Airports. Highlights: Subtropical Ryukyu Kingdom heritage (Shuri Castle in Naha), Churaumi Aquarium (Motobu), Kerama Islands coral reefs, and the turquoise Yaeyama & Miyako islands (Ishigaki, Taketomi, Miyakojima).