Hiroshima Region

A shrine on Miyajima Island in Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima Prefecture. Famous for its iconic vermillion torii gate standing in the sea, whose appearance changes dramatically with tides. Registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, it is one of Japan's most recognizable shrines. Attracts approximately 3 million visitors annually.

A gassho-zukuri (steep-thatched roof) village in Shirakawa, Ono District, Gifu Prefecture. Approximately 100 traditional houses remain, famous internationally for winter snowy scenery. Registered as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site in 1995. Preserving traditional village life, it attracts about 1.5 million visitors annually and represents Japanese traditional culture.

The ancient capital of Japan in Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture. It served as the political and economic center for 1,200 years. Numerous historic structures including temples, shrines, and gardens remain, many registered as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Attracting over 35 million visitors annually, it represents Japan's premier tourist destination and is globally recognized as Japan's cultural heritage center.

An island floating in the Seto Inland Sea off Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima Prefecture. Revered since ancient times as a pilgrimage site for Itsukushima Shrine, the entire island is considered sacred. Known for views from Miyosen's observation deck, momiji manju (maple leaf cakes), and okonomiyaki, it attracts about 3 million tourists annually. It is the center of Seto Inland Sea tourism.

The center of ancient Japanese capital culture in Nara City. Nara Park concentrates temples representing the Nara period, including Todai-ji with its famous Great Buddha. Interaction with Nara's sacred deer is also a tourist draw. Registered as UNESCO World Heritage for its historic cultural assets. Welcoming over 12 million visitors annually, it ranks alongside Kyoto as a premier destination.

A peninsula in northern Ishikawa Prefecture. Famous for scenic terraced rice paddies including Senmaida, registered as a World Agricultural Heritage Site. Features rocky coastlines, hot springs, and abundant seafood. Traditional crafts like Noto tiles are renowned. Attracting over 1.5 million visitors annually, it represents Ishikawa Prefecture tourism.

An historic port town in Onomichi, Hiroshima Prefecture, facing the Seto Inland Sea, featuring architecture spanning from Edo to Showa eras. Setting for numerous films and literary works, its many slopes and scattered temples create serene atmosphere. Attracting approximately 1 million visitors annually, it evokes nostalgia for traditional Japan.