Japan , a land of rich tradition and carving - edge modernity , is home to some of the most thickly settled cities in the world . From the industrious metropolis of Tokyo to the ethnical heritage of Kyoto , thelargest city in Japanoffer a alone portmanteau of history , innovation and vibrant local life .
Japan ’s urban centers are hubs of culture , applied science and culinary art , attracting millions of visitors and resident likewise . Here are the top 15 , base on data fromWorld Population Review .
1. Tokyo (8.34 million)
The capital and largest city of Japan , Tokyo is a orbicular hot spot for culture , business and technology . screw for its hulk skyscrapers , bustle street and cosmos - class dining , the city offer endless attractions , include the historicMeiji Shrine , the obtusely packedShibuya Crossingand the vibrantAkihabara territory .
With over 8 million inhabitants , Tokyo ’s mix of tradition and innovation makes it one of the world ’s most fascinating cities .
2. Yokohama (3.57 million)
Located just south of Tokyo , Yokohama is Japan ’s second - largest metropolis and a major port . Known for its beautifulMinato Miraiwaterfront territorial dominion , Chinatownand theCup Noodles Museum , the city combines mod attractions with a laid - back atmosphere .
3. Osaka (2.59 million)
Osaka , in the Kansai neighborhood , is do it for its vibrant food view ( like many of the major city in Japan ) , seethe night life and welcome civilisation .
landmark likeOsaka Castle , DotonboriandUniversal Studios Japanmake it a popular finish . The city ’s sobriquet , " The Nation ’s Kitchen , " reflects its culinary prowess .
4. Nagoya (2.19 million)
Nagoya , an industrial powerhouse , is Japan ’s automotive hub , home to Toyota and other major producer . The city features attractive feature likeNagoya Castle , theAtsuta Shrineand the futuristicSCMAGLEV and Railway Park , showcasing its blend of story and applied science .
5. Sapporo (1.88 million)
The heavy metropolis on the northerly island ofHokkaido , Sapporo is notable for its beer , ramen and annualSnow Festival . The city provide access to stunning natural landscape and is a gateway to skiing and other out-of-door adventures .
6. Kobe (1.53 million)
nestle between the mountains and the sea , Kobe is a worldwide port metropolis known for itsKobe boeuf from Wagyu cattleand sensational view . Attractions like theKobe Harborland , Nunobiki Herb Gardenand theIkuta Shrinehighlight its charm .
7. Kyoto (1.46 million)
Kyoto , Japan ’s former capital , is renowned for its traditional cultivation , historic temples and beautiful gardens . Landmarks likeKinkaku - ji(Golden Pavilion),Fushimi Inari ShrineandGion districtattract visitant seek a glimpse into Japan ’s past tense .
8. Fukuoka (1.39 million)
locate on Japan ’s southerly island ofKyushu , Fukuoka is a vibrant city screw for its solid food carrell ( yatai ) , historical temples and advanced shopping districts . The city ’s close proximity to Korea and China has made it a ethnical and trade gateway for centuries
9. Kawasaki (1.31 million)
Part of the Greater Tokyo Area , Kawasaki is know for its industrial radix and cultural attractions such as theKawasaki Daishi Templeand theNihon Minkaen , an open - air museum with preserved buildings from the Edo Period .
10. Saitama (1.19 million)
Located north of Tokyo , Saitama is a growing city have sex for its ethnical attractions , including theRailway Museumand theSaitama Super Arena . Its suburban feel and propinquity to the capital make it a popular blank space to live .
11. Hiroshima (1.14 million)
Hiroshima is a urban center of history and resilience , have it away worldwide for itsPeace Memorial Park and Museum , which immortalise the 1945 atomic bombing .
The nearbyItsukushima ShrineonMiyajima Islandis a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbolisation of Japan ’s enduring beauty .
12. Sendai (1.06 million)
The largest urban center in theTohokuregion , with a universe of just over 1 million people , Sendai is known as the " City of Trees " for its lush verdure . Attractions likeZuihōden Mausoleum , Sendai Castle ruinsand theTanabata Festivalhighlight its deep cultivation and history .
13. Kitakyushu (998,000)
Located in northernKyushu , Kitakyushu is an industrial city with a copious history . Its attractions include theMojiko Retro district , Kokura Castleand theKanmon Straits , offer a mixture of culture and stunning opinion .
14. Chiba (920,000)
Part of the Greater Tokyo Area , Chiba is home toTokyo Disneylandand theChiba Port Tower . The city is also known for its large convention centers and well-to-do access to Narita International Airport , making it a fundamental gateway for traveler .
15. Sakai (782,000)
situate near Osaka , Sakai is a metropolis with deep historical root , known for itskofun(ancient entombment mound ) and traditional crafts likeknife - devising . The urban center ’s mix of heritage and modern growth makes it an intriguing destination in the Kansai region .
We created this article in conjunction with AI technology , then made sure it was fact - check and edit by a HowStuffWorks editor .
