10 Places Around the Philippines That’ll Transport You to Japan

We miss Japan and we know you do, too. Before the pandemic, Japan was listed as the top travel destination for Filipinos, and for very good reason! More than its many sights and attractions, it’s got a little of everything for every kind of traveler - shopping, food, historical sights - you name it. Japan’s close proximity to the Philippines also allowed for frequent travels with family, friends, or your significant other. 

While we wait for international borders to reopen so we can travel safely again, we found several places around the country that might be able to appease your desire to travel to Japan. Check out the list below!

NOTE: Before you travel, be sure to check with the respective LGU’s for guidelines and restrictions. 

Lookalike: Tokyo, Japan

For a quick Japan fix in the city, a visit to Makati’s Little Tokyo will scratch that travel itch for you. This quaint, yet unassuming, Makati spot is actually home to some of the best authentic Japanese restaurants in the city such as Kikufuji and Yakiniku A5 Toku. Apart from these must-eat restaurants, be sure to snap some photos with the Japan-inspired scenery outdoors including an orange torii gate!

Be transported to Osaka’s vibrant food streets at Iciba: Japanese Market in Resort’s World Manila! While we could list an endless amount of Japanese restaurants to take your tastebuds back to Japan, Ichiba offers a feast for the eyes and the senses. The restaurant is designed specifically to mirror Japan’s famous food streets - and that is exactly what you’ll find here! The space is lined with merchants selling exclusively Japanese dishes that’ll surely take you back!

Amidst Manila’s busy streets and towering buildings, visitors can find quiet and solace at the Japanese Garden. Located close to popular attractions Rizal Park and the National Library, the Japanese Garden features landscapes and furnishings that mirror those of Japan’s scenic parks. Thanks to its manageable size, it’s the perfect spot for a refreshing scenic walk!

Lookalike: Fushimi Inari Taisha

With its bright red torii gate centerpiece, it’s hard to miss the Nihon Koen, which is a Japanese garden located inside the UP Los Banos campus. The garden was a project funded by the Philippine Association of Japanese Government Scholars - Inc., Southern Luzon Chapter with the support of the University of the Philippines - Los Banos to symbolize the Philippine-Japanese friendship.

NOTE: Several areas in Laguna can only be accessed by local residents (See more here).

Lookalike: Mt. Fuji in Tokyo

If Japan has Mt. Fuji, the Philippines has Mt. Mayon - and it is equally as stunning and picturesque! Once domestic travel to Albay reopens, be sure to snap a photo at the foot of the volcano - where you’ll find a field of palm trees and seasonal flowers! 

NOTE: Mt. Mayon ATV Adventure is open to domestic tourists following strict guidelines, however most of Albay remains closed to non-Albayano residents (see more here).

Lookalike: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in Kyoto

Did you know Bohol has reopened their borders to domestic tourists? That means apart from enjoying Bohol’s stunning beaches or enjoying a staycation at one of their resorts, you can also visit this Arashiyama Bamboo Grove lookalike spot! Though we think that the Bilar Man-Made Forest is popular in its own right, if you are missing Japan or have had to postpone your trip, a quick photoshoot in this attraction will give away a similar feel!

Lookalike: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in Kyoto

Another Arashiyama Bamoo Grove lookalike destination is the Kawayan Eco Park in Baguio! We’d say it’s almost identical to the Kyoto attraction - from the red-fenced walkways to the sky-high bamboo trees. Whether you are looking to relive those Kyoto memories or simply looking for things to do in Baguio, this bamboo sanctuary is one we’d highly recommend! 

Lookalike: Saika no Sato in Hokkaido

While we aren’t able to celebrate Spring galavanting through Japan’s many flower farms, the Northern Blossom Flower Farm in Atok, Benguet is a perfect alternative to Saika no Sato, one of the popular flower field attractions in Hokkaido.

It is said that January to April are the best times to visit the Northern Blossom Flower Form as the cabbage roses are in full bloom!

NOTE: Benguet remains closed to local tourists (see more here).

Just in case you’re looking to experience Japan even just for the night - Nobu Hotel manila’s modern accommodations exude a luxe Japanese aesthetic that’ll surely make up for those postponed travels. Fortunately for those daydreaming about Japan, Nobu Hotel Manila is one of the staycation-approved hotels here in Manila!

Lookalike: Hirakubo Lighthouse in Okinawa

Okinawa is a coastal city known for its postcard-perfect views and clear water beaches; popular among locals as a getaway destination from Tokyo or Osaka’s busy lifestyle. Apart from its beaches, one popular destination is the Hirakubozaki Lighthouse in Ishigaki Island, which overlooks an endless sea of blue on one side and lush green rolling hills on the other. This specifically reminds us of beautiful Batanes, specifically Basco Lighthouse, which is a tourist attraction that offers similar views! 

NOTE: Batanes travel is restricted to only local tourists from within the province for the time-being (see more here).

This Rizal-based coffee shop made quite the buzz late last year - and for good reason! Once a humble sari-sari store, the shop was later reconstructed to replicate cafes and coffee shops typically seen in Tokyo’s Aoyama and Omotesando districts - offering guests a slice of Japan while travel is currently restricted. It also helps that they’ve got a delicious selection of pastries and brews for guests to enjoy!