Jalan News, a travel information website operated by Recruit Co., Ltd., conducted a survey on the theme of “World Heritage Sites to Visit in Summer” and announced the “Jalan Summer World Heritage Ranking.”
Since the first registration of World Heritage Sites in Japan in 1993, the number has continued to grow year by year. As of March 2025, Japan has 21 cultural heritage sites and 5 natural heritage sites, totaling 26. This survey highlighted spots among many historical sites that are cool and comfortable or offer unique summer experiences, which ranked high.
Ranked No. 1 was the Ogasawara Islands in Tokyo. These oceanic islands were formed by volcanic activity, and the crystal-clear waters are known as “Bonin Blue.” In summer, activities such as swimming, diving, and swimming with dolphins are popular. The night sky is filled with stars and the Milky Way, making it an ideal season for stargazing.
Ranked No. 2 was Shiretoko in Hokkaido. It is the northernmost World Heritage Site in Japan and one of the few where you can enter the World Heritage area by car. Sightseeing boats allow visitors to observe remote areas that are difficult to reach by land. Even in August, the maximum temperature is around 26°C, making it a cool and comfortable destination.
Ranked No. 3 was Shirakami-Sanchi, spanning Aomori and Akita Prefectures. It is home to the largest primeval beech forest in East Asia and preserves ecosystems that survived the Ice Age. Visitors can enjoy trekking around Aoike (Blue Pond), which is said to shine the bluest around noon, and Juniko (Twelve Lakes), while observing nature in a cool climate.
Ranked No. 4 was Amami Oshima, Tokunoshima, Northern Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island. These areas are covered with subtropical evergreen broadleaf forests and are habitats for rare species such as the Amami rabbit and the Iriomote cat. Each island offers various summer activities such as snorkeling, diving, river trekking, and mangrove cruises.
Ranked No. 5 was Yakushima. The island is covered by a pristine forest, home to ancient Yakusugi cedar trees, including the famous Jomon Sugi. In summer, in addition to trekking to Jomon Sugi, visitors can enjoy kayaking on the clear Anbo River and observing sea turtles on the coast.
Ranked No. 6 was Mount Fuji (Object of Worship and Source of Art). The climbing season runs from July to September, and water sports such as canoeing and SUP are popular around the Fuji Five Lakes. There are also many cool scenic spots like Shiraito Falls, allowing visitors to experience both nature and culture.
Ranked No. 7 was Itsukushima Shrine in Hiroshima Prefecture. Its shrine buildings, which change appearance with the tides, are a unique feature. In summer, the great torii gate is beautifully illuminated at night. A night cruise around Miyajima offers a different view from the daytime.
Ranked No. 8 was the Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu. These castle ruins scattered around Okinawa Island show a beautiful contrast between the blue summer sky and the stone walls. It’s ideal for a walk while appreciating the historical background.
Ranked No. 9 was the Historic Villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama. These villages, often called the original scenery of Japan, are known for their beautiful landscape and traditional gassho-zukuri houses with steep thatched roofs. In summer, the lush green scenery and cool highland climate make it a perfect retreat.
Ranked No. 10 was Hiraizumi in Iwate Prefecture. It is a cultural heritage site with temples, gardens, and ruins that represent the Buddhist Pure Land. Every August, the “Hiraizumi Daimonji Fire Festival” is held, allowing visitors to enjoy the harmonious beauty of history and nature.
Details here.
