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The Most Beautiful Ancient Towns in Japan in 2025

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Japan is famous for its harmonious blend of modernity and tradition, where ancient towns still preserve their pristine beauty, steeped in history and culture. Here are some of the most beautiful ancient towns that travelers should not miss when visiting Japan in 2025.

1. Shirakawa-go (Gifu)

Shirakawa-go is one of Japan’s most beautiful villages, famous for its "gassho-zukuri" houses with steep, thick thatched roofs. This village has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts visitors with its stunning scenery, especially in winter when the village is blanketed in snow.

Highlights:

  • Shirakawa-go Village: Explore the traditional houses and learn about their historical construction.

  • Viewpoints: From surrounding hills, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Shirakawa-go village.

2. Kanazawa (Ishikawa)

Kanazawa is a charming city famous for its traditional gardens, particularly Kenrokuen Garden, one of the three most beautiful gardens in Japan. In addition, Kanazawa boasts historic districts like Higashi Chaya District, known for its traditional teahouses and ancient wooden buildings.

Highlights:

  • Kenrokuen Garden: One of Japan's most beautiful and iconic gardens, reflecting traditional landscaping art.

  • Higashi Chaya District: Experience the traditional cultural atmosphere with teahouses and craft stores.

3. Takayama (Gifu)

Takayama is known for its old town atmosphere, with wooden houses and vibrant festivals. Takayama’s Sanno-machi district still retains the beauty of bygone centuries. Takayama is also famous for its morning markets, such as the Morning Markets, where visitors can purchase local products.

Highlights:

  • Takayama Old Town: Stroll through the quaint streets and sample local specialties.

  • Takayama Festival: One of the most beautiful and grand festivals in Japan, attracting thousands of visitors each year.

4. Ouchi-juku (Fukushima)

Ouchi-juku is a small village located in Fukushima, famous for its thatched-roof houses dating back to the Edo period. The village preserves the traditional architecture and offers a picturesque atmosphere, particularly in winter when snow blankets the area, creating a fairy-tale-like landscape.

Highlights:

  • Thatched-roof Houses: Explore the unique architecture of these traditional houses.

  • Local Markets and Cuisine: Taste regional specialties, such as the traditional soba (buckwheat noodles).

5. Yufuin (Oita)

Yufuin is a small town located at the foot of Mount Yufu. Known for its tranquil atmosphere, quaint cafes, craft shops, and hot springs (onsen), Yufuin is the perfect destination for those seeking relaxation amidst stunning natural beauty.

Highlights:

  • Yufuin Stream: Enjoy a relaxing walk around the hot springs area and take in the scenic views.

  • Cafes and Craft Shops: Relax with a cup of Japanese coffee in a peaceful setting.

6. Kawagoe (Saitama)

Kawagoe, also known as "Little Edo," is a historic town located near Tokyo, famous for its Edo-period streets and buildings. Visitors to Kawagoe can admire the old architecture and enjoy traditional foods in a serene atmosphere, as if stepping back in time.

Highlights:

  • Kurazukuri Street: Stroll through the streets lined with traditional clay-walled houses.

  • Toki no Kane Bell Tower: A symbol of Kawagoe, representing the Edo period.

7. Hida Furukawa (Gifu)

Hida Furukawa is another charming ancient town in Gifu Prefecture, known for its peaceful atmosphere, traditional wooden houses, canals, and picturesque bridges. In spring, visitors can admire cherry blossoms in full bloom, adding to the town's natural beauty.

Highlights:

  • Hida Furukawa Village: Explore the traditional houses and learn about the local culture.

  • Morning Market: Experience local handicrafts and fresh regional products.

8. Nara (Nara)

Although Nara is a larger city, it still retains the peaceful, old-world charm of an ancient town. The city’s temples, shrines, and parks offer a serene atmosphere, especially when visiting landmarks like Todai-ji Temple or Nara Park, home to freely roaming deer.

Highlights:

  • Todai-ji Temple: A large temple housing the Great Buddha statue.

  • Nara Park: Interact with the deer and visit the surrounding temples and shrines.

These beautiful ancient towns are not only perfect places to explore Japan's culture and history but also ideal destinations to relax, enjoy nature, and participate in traditional activities. Plan your trip to discover these hidden gems in 2025!

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