Top 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Japan

Japan has a rich and illustrious history with many culturally important sites designated as official world heritage areas by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). These areas offer “oustanding universal value” and are an important part of our history.

We chose these five as our most recommended areas to help you make the most of your time in Japan.

5. Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine

Iwami Ginzan is an old silver mine located in the mountain region of Oda city in Shimane prefecture in Western Japan. Orginally discovered in the 1600’s the mine was in operation for nearly 400 years with a third of the worlds silver coming from here during its peak in the early 17th century. The area now includes visits to the mines and surrounding ruins from the mining period as well as museums, historical residences and even a Japanese hot spring onsen.

Himeji Castle is considered to be one of Japan’s most spectacular castles and is a great example of an authentic Japanese medieval castle not destroyed by fire or earthquake. The current complex was completed in 1609 and served as a military and political base for many clans who rules the area, until being auction off during the Meiji Restoration. It was the first area in Japan to be recognised as a world heritage site and joined the official list in 1993.

3. Shirakawa-go and Gokayama

The regions of Shirakawa-go and neighbouring Gokayama are traditional villages with an example of Japanese architecture called Gassho farm houses. They houses are specially designed to protect from the heavy winter snowfall and are the only houses of this kind in Japan. The areas makes a great day trip or you can even stay overnight in some on the traditional houses which have been converted to Minshuku.

2. Yakushima Island

Yakishima is an island off the coast of southern Kyushu which offers a subtropical climate and a huge natural cedar forest. The area is a wild jungle of giant trees, many of which are over 1000 years old and some are even claimed to be 7000 years old! It is a great place to visit for adventurous outdoor types interested in hiking and camping in a natural ancient forest!

1. Itsukushima Shrine at Miyajima Island

Itsukushima is a Shinto shrine located on the island of Miyajima inear Hiroshima. It has been considered a sacred island for many centuries and the dramatic red floating torii gate is on of the most popular tourist attractions in Japan. Miyajima is definitely worth a visit from Hiroshima and you can even use your JR Pass on the ferry from the mainland.