There are four main Japanese islands. Honshu, the largest, is host to the Japanese capital, Tokyo, but also has several other major cities on it. To the north lies Hokkaido, a sought-after holiday destination that is especially renowned for winter sports. Shikoku, the smallest of the Japanese archipelago is in the southern region and is celebrated for its natural beauty. There is also Kyushu which presents a diverse mix of attractions, including volcanoes, historic sites, and quaint villages. Each of these islands stand out as excellent tourist destinations which makes choosing which one to explore, a tough decision.
So, if you have asked: what are the 4 main islands of Japan, then this guide will assist you to know what to do and where to go to practice your Japanese.
What are the Four Main Islands of Japan: The First is Honshu
So, what are the four main islands of Japan?
Of all the Japanese islands, what makes a visit to Honshu worthwhile? Honshu, the largest island in the Land of the Rising Sun, beckons for many compelling reasons. As the primary destination for many travellers to Japan, Honshu boasts major cities such as Tokyo and Kyoto as well as iconic landmarks like Mount Fuji, Disneyland, and a host of other renowned attractions. It also serves as the epicentre for quintessential experiences and destinations that capture the essence of Japan.
When considering a visit to Honshu, Japan's largest island, the capital city of Tokyo stands out as a primary attraction, making it almost essential for any visitor’s itinerary to the country. To explore the vast list of attractions, you may need more than a week. Here are a few recommendations of sights you may not want to miss:
- Shibuya, the bustling "city centre."
- Shinjuku, renowned for Tokyo's vibrant nightlife.
- The Japanese Imperial Palace.
- The futuristic artificial island of Odaiba.
- Akihabara, the hub for electronics, anime, and manga enthusiasts.
- Roppongi, home to Japan's lively nightclubs.
- Sens?-Ji, a prominent Buddhist temple in Asakusa.
- The iconic Tokyo Skytree.
- The serene Meiji Jingu shrine.
- Tokyo Disneyland.
- Various museums which are scattered across the city.
While Honshu offers an abundance of attractions, Kyoto, the former capital, is a must-visit for its Geishas, temples, and shrines. Don’t forget Osaka which is famed for its impressive castle, and other noteworthy cities on the island include Hiroshima, Miyajima, Kamakura, Nara, and Nagoya.
Honshu's allure extends beyond urban hubs, with the majestic Mount Fuji, Japan's tallest peak and a national symbol, captivating visitors with its breathtaking beauty. This UNESCO World Heritage site features shrines and torii gates that provide a serene escape from city life.
The Kansai and Kanto regions on Honshu are also worth exploring, especially for their delectable culinary experiences like sushi, ramen, sake (in moderation), and yakitori.
While Honshu presents an array of compelling attractions, it's important to note that a guide to Japan’s islands extends way beyond this.
When it comes to the Japanese archipelago, each region offers a diverse range of experiences bases on the unique preferences of the traveller.
Find out more about visiting Honshu in our accompanying article.
The Best Places in Hokkaido
Located in the north of Japan, Hokkaido is renowned as a favoured holiday destination among Japanese tourists. The island offers a plethora of attractions, and exploring all that Hokkaido has to offer may require multiple visits to Japan. Here's a brief overview to capture the essence of what this northern island in the Japanese archipelago has in store.
When it comes to the question of what are the 4 main islands of Japan, you will need time because there is enough to discover for years.
Hokkaido is renowned for Japan's winter sports scene and boasts ski resorts like the acclaimed Niseko. The towering mountains and chilly climate create ideal conditions for winter activities, and the picturesque snowy landscapes add to the region's charm.
A visit to Hokkaido should undoubtedly include the capital city, Sapporo which is home to a thriving population of over 2 million people. Sapporo is a popular tourist destination that is celebrated for its delectable cuisine and rejuvenating hot springs.
Other noteworthy cities in Hokkaido worth exploring include:
- Abashiri, a charming coastal town.
- Hakodate, distinguished by its bustling port.
- Asahikawa, featuring an impressive zoo.
- Chitose, housing the international airport.
- Furano, known for its inviting ski resort.
Hokkaido also boasts natural wonders such as Hell Valley (Jigokudani), the Hiyoriyama volcano, and numerous onsens, with the region being renowned for its Japanese hot springs.
The island offers a diverse range of attractions, including the scenic Lake T?ya and its Geopark, the majestic Mount Y?tei, and the Makomanai Takino Buddhist cemetery, home to a colossal Buddha statue. Much like the other Japanese islands, as you can tell there is such a rich array of experiences, that boredom is not an option when exploring Hokkaido.
Find out more about Hokkaido here.
Shikoku Offers the Perfect Holiday
In most guides to Japan’s islands, you will find that Shikoku is one of the smaller, yet famous islands in the country, making it one of the best places to explore and visit.
Shikoku is a haven of natural beauty that exudes the essence of Japanese tradition in every aspect. While cherry blossoms grace various parts of Japan, Shikoku stands out as an unparalleled destination to witness their splendour.
In addition, the island is adorned with significant towns and cities, with Matsuyama in the Ehime area being one that is commonly found in a guide to Japan’s islands. This city is renowned for its hot springs, a 19th-century castle, and the Ishite-Ji temple, which is reflective of the rich cultural heritage of Japan.
Other noteworthy destinations in Shikoku include Takamatsu, Kochi, and Tokushima, all of which offer unique experiences and attractions that contribute to the island's diverse allure.
If you are into Buddhist rituals, on Shikoku you can take a pilgrimage to 88 temples on the island, and they won’t cost you a single Yen either.
You can also visit the town of Naruto, the Iya Valley, or the Oboke Gorge. While you’re there, don’t forget the traditional village of Uchiko and the Kotohira-g? Shinto shrine.
Learn more about the island of Shikoku.
Why Should You Visit Kyushu?
In answering the question: what are the 4 major islands of Japan, we need to look at the third largest, Kyushu. It is famous for its historic sites, coastal towns and volcanoes, but there are other reasons to visit this island too.
When exploring Japan, you'll discover an abundance of onsens, or hot springs scattered across the country. Kyushu, in particular, offers Unzen and Beppu hot springs as popular choices.
In addition, Fukuoka, a city boasting a population of over 1.5 million, is a destination that is certainly worth including in your itinerary. Fukuoka provides a diverse range of activities, from shopping centres and traditional Japanese markets to breathtaking views of the Genkai Sea. Enjoy noodles by Hakata Bay, participate in Japanese tea ceremonies, and delve into the rich cultural tapestry through museums and local monuments.
When it comes to looking at what are the four main islands of Japan, Kyushu stands out for many reasons.
- Mount Aso and Sakurajima, the island's twin volcanoes.
- Nagasaki, showcasing Japanese cultural heritage.
- The coastal city of Miyazaki.
- The picturesque city of Kumamoto and its iconic castle.
- Kagoshima, often referred to as the Naples of the East.
- The local culture of the Okinawa archipelago.
Kyushu also hosts vibrant festivals, such as the Nagasaki Lantern Festival and provides an opportunity for immersive cultural experiences.
For food enthusiasts, don't miss the chance to savour Hakata ramen and motsunabe, two culinary delights that capture the essence of Kyushu's gastronomic offerings.
Other reasons to visit Kyushu.
So, by now, you can surely answer the question – what are the four main islands of Japan?
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