If you have always wanted to travel to Japan, here are top 5 cities that I think are a must (other than Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto) which you should go !
1.Beppu
A city in Oita Prefecture - this city is well know for its hot springs. This city is situated between the mountains and the sea which makes it perfect for geothermal activity to thrive. It has eight major hot spring areas referred to the "Eight Hells of Beppu".
One attraction site that I've always enjoyed looking at are the Hells of Beppu. This is a place where hot spring are viewed for their beauty rather than for bathing. As a popular destination, this attraction can be frequently accessed by continuously departing buses from the JR Beppu Station.
Another one is the Shoningahama Seaside Sand Bath. Here, you won't be bathe in hot water, but rather in hot sand. Although there were some difficulty in breathing, this was 100% a place worth to visit. It's oddness attracts everyone's eyes just in a glimpse.
2.Kobe
You may hear this city a lot, as it is famous for its high-grade beef. For food bloggers, this is a dream come true! At the very first moment you bite into the juicy meat, you will instantly fall in love and wouldn't be able to stop eating.
In my opinion, the best way to eat Kobe Beef is when the beef is cooked rare, sliced and put on top of rice, making it a don. Most importantly, don't forget to add the raw egg which enhances the taste to a whole new level. (Don't worry, eggs are safe to eat raw in Japan)
Not only about the beef, this capital coty of Hyogo Prefecture is considered one of Japan's attractive city. This city also makes fine sake, which you can find in the Sake Breweries. It has long been famous due to the to the great amount of high quality rice, weather and suitable water. My favourite was the Plum Sake from the Sawanotsuru Sake Museum.
3.Hiroshima
No, it is not harmful anymore to visit this city. Many wrong assumptions were made and I will tell you that they were the complete opposite of what describes this beautiful city.
This historic city was well-known due to the Atomic-Bombing. You can see what are the effects in the Atomic Bomb dome. In the surrounding area, you can find the Children's Peace Monument where you will able to see the famous Sadako Statue.
Not far from Hiroshima, is the Island, Itsukushima where you will be able to find the famous Floating Torii Gate. In high tide, the gate will almost look as if it is floating.
My favourite part about Hiroshima is of course the delicious Okonomiyaki. Although they originate from Osaka, the Hiroshimas have a different recipe, which I prefer better.
4.Fukuoka
Known as the Flower City, you can see all the beautiful blooming flower in the first week of April. The tulips are absolutely gorgeous and colourful!
Modern Malls and Ancient Temples can be found through this city. As the capital city of the prefecture, Fukuoka has a diverse culture and a wide range of cultural attractions.
If you have a chance to visit this city, I would reccommend eating the delicious Hakata Ramen. The broth is too delicious and the noodles are exquisite!
5.Sapporo
You can visit this in both Summer and Winter. I can't decide which is better as they have there are seasonal changes that you can only experience in a certain period of time.
In summer, yoy can enjoy the lavender fields, and even try the lavender ice cream which is a must. You can also see alpacas roaming around in Ecorin Village. You should also see the magnificent Blue Pond which looks like it came out of a fairytale.
In winter, you can ski on the mountains and hills of Sapporo. In special occassions, you can enjoy snow falling while eating hot and delicious oden.
