Not Just Tokyo and Osaka! Taiwanese Travelers Are Turning to '5 Japanese Regions' for Affordable, High-Value, Scenic, and Repeat-Worthy Trips

Japan has long been one of the most popular overseas travel destinations for Taiwanese due to its exceptional tourism quality, rich culture, and diverse cuisine. Many travelers visit repeatedly, with some even earning the nickname "Tokyo experts." But for those who have been to Tokyo five or more times, where should they go next? A recent post on the social media platform Threads asking this very question sparked widespread discussion, amassing over 220,000 views.

Many netizens shared their personal Tokyo itineraries, emphasizing that exploring different neighborhoods, shopping districts, art exhibitions, and dining at high-rated Tabelog restaurants offers fresh experiences every time. Suggestions included spending at least three days just shopping—covering Ikebukuro, Shinjuku, Harajuku, Shibuya, Ueno, and Akihabara across separate days. Others highlighted Ueno Park, visited seven to eight times, praising its numerous museums and art galleries that frequently host international exhibitions, all easily accessible by public transport.

Some users recommended expanding the trip beyond Tokyo to nearby cities such as Yamanashi Prefecture’s Hokuto City, Yokohama, Kamakura, or even Fukuoka. Popular suggestions included visiting Yokohama, Nikko (home to the Toshogu Shrine and other attractions), and noting that Tokyo itself offers major draws like two teamLab Borderless locations, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Disneyland, Meiji Shrine, Nezu Museum, and the National Art Center.

Others pointed to seasonal events, such as summer festivals and fireworks displays in Kamakura and Yokohama, as compelling reasons to revisit. Increasingly, however, travelers are shifting focus from urban hotspots to quieter, off-the-beaten-path destinations. Hakone, Mount Fuji, Lake Kawaguchi, Kawagoe, Karuizawa, and Choshi City in Chiba Prefecture are gaining popularity.

One user shared a personal list of hidden gems: 1. Kiyosumi-Shirakawa (minimalist architecture and hipster cafes), 2. Kagurazaka (a blend of French and Edo-era charm), 3. Togoshi Ginza (Tokyo’s longest shopping street, known for local street food), 4. Kichijoji (a haven for vintage clothing lovers), and 5. a small cat-themed fairy tale village.

The enduring appeal of Tokyo lies in its ability to offer something new with each visit—whether through urban exploration, cultural events, gourmet dining, or deeper excursions into the surrounding regions. Even frequent visitors continue to discover fresh surprises, making Japan a top repeat destination for Taiwanese tourists.