Honshū is the main island of Japan and the heart of the country. It is where tradition meets modern life, where ancient temples stand next to futuristic cities.

From peaceful islands to busy capitals, from mountain views to historical cities, Honshū offers a perfect balance between culture, nature and everyday Japanese life.

Hiroshima & Miyajima: History, Memory and Tradition

Hiroshima is a city that leaves a strong impression. Known worldwide for its tragic past, it is today a calm and welcoming city focused on peace and memory. Walking around the Peace Memorial Park is emotional but important to understand Japan’s modern history.

Just a short ferry ride away, Miyajima Island feels like another world. The floating torii gate, the streets and the forest atmosphere make it a perfect day trip. I recommend spending a full day there to walk around the island, visit the temples and enjoy the views.

👉 Read my guide: Visiting Miyajima in one day

Okayama: A Peaceful Stop Off the Beaten Path

Okayama is often overlooked, but it is a very pleasant stop. The city is famous for Korakuen Garden, one of the most beautiful gardens in Japan. It is spacious, peaceful and perfect for a slow walk.

Okayama is also a great base to explore the surrounding area and a good pause between bigger cities.

Kobe: Between Mountains and Sea

Kobe is a stylish city located between the sea and the mountains. What we loved most here were the views. From the hills above the city, especially at sunset, you can see the port, the lights and the entire bay.

Kobe also has a relaxed atmosphere, nice cafés and of course its famous beef — even if the city has much more to offer than food.

👉 Our favorite viewpoints in Kobe

Kyoto: Temples, Tradition and Timeless Japan

Kyoto is the cultural soul of Japan. With its hundreds of temples, traditional neighborhoods and gardens, it feels like traveling back in time.

I focused on visiting temples spread across the city to avoid rushing. Each area has a different atmosphere, from quiet bamboo paths to lively streets. Kyoto deserves time and patience to really appreciate its beauty. I was lucky, I visited during the Kōyō period (autumn foliage).

👉 The temples you shouldn’t miss in Kyoto

Tokyo: My Favorite Neighborhoods

Tokyo is huge, exciting and sometimes overwhelming. Instead of trying to see everything, I chose to explore the city by neighborhoods.

Each area has its own identity: traditional streets, modern districts, calm parks and vibrant nightlife. Tokyo is a city where you can never get bored, no matter how long you stay.

👉 My favorite neighborhoods in Tokyo

Experiences in Honshū

Cycling the Shimanami Kaido

One of our strongest memories in Japan was cycling the Shimanami Kaido, a two-day bike route between Shikoku and Honshū. Riding across islands and bridges was unforgettable, even with changing weather.

👉 Read about this amazing biking ride

An Unexpected Hospital Stay

Travel is not always perfect. During our stay in Honshū, I had an unexpected hospital experience. It was stressful, but it also showed us how efficient and caring the Japanese healthcare system is.

👉 Read about my hospital experience in Japan

Why Honshū Left a Mark on Us ?

Honshū is not just about famous cities. It is about contrasts, emotions and small moments. From quiet gardens to neon lights, from history to daily life, this island shows many faces of Japan.

It was one of the highlights of our journey — and a place we will never forget.