45 Must-Visit Places Starting with J: Prepare to Be Amazed!
Get ready to explore 45 amazing places that start with the letter “J”! From the green jungles of South America to the old temples of Asia, this list has a wide variety of places that will make you want to pack your bags and travel.
We’ll discover hidden gems, famous landmarks, and cultural treasures as we go around the world, uncovering what makes each place special and exciting.
Whether you love adventure and history or want to see something new, these places will give you unforgettable experiences.
Join us as we visit the world’s most interesting places, starting with “J,” and get ready to add some cool new spots to your travel wish list.
Let’s start this exciting adventure together and make memories that will last forever!
1. Jaipur, India
Jaipur, the “Pink City” of India, is a mesmerizing destination known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture. Did you know Jaipur is home to the world’s largest stone sundial, the Jantar Mantar?
- Major Attractions: The Amber Fort, City Palace, and Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds).
- Popular Activities: Exploring the colorful bazaars, taking a hot air balloon ride over the city, and visiting the Elephant Village.
- Famous Dishes: Dal baati churma (a traditional Rajasthani dish), pyaaz kachori (a spicy onion pastry), and lassi (a refreshing yogurt drink).
- Best Time to Visit: November to February, when the weather is pleasant and cool, perfect for exploring the city’s many attractions.
2. Jerusalem, Israel
Jerusalem, one of the oldest cities in the world, is a holy place for three major religions: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Did you know that the Western Wall in Jerusalem is the last remaining wall of the ancient Jewish Temple?
- Major Attractions: The Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and the Dome of the Rock.
- Popular Activities: Exploring the Old City, visiting the Israel Museum, and taking a tour of the City of David.
- Famous Dishes: Hummus (a dip made from chickpeas), falafel (deep-fried balls made from ground chickpeas), and shawarma (a sandwich filled with shaved meat).
- Best Time to Visit: March to May or September to November, when the weather is mild and comfortable for sightseeing.
3. Jökulsárlón, Iceland
Jökulsárlón is a breathtaking glacial lagoon located in southeast Iceland. Did you know that the lagoon is the deepest lake in Iceland, reaching depths of over 248 meters (814 feet)?
- Major Attractions: The stunning blue icebergs floating in the lagoon and the nearby Diamond Beach.
- Popular Activities: Taking a boat tour among the icebergs, watching seals play in the water, and hiking in the surrounding area.
- Famous Dishes: Icelandic lamb, Arctic char (a type of fish), and skyr (a traditional Icelandic yogurt).
- Best Time to Visit: June to August, when the weather is milder and the days are longer, allowing more time to explore the area.
4. Jasper National Park, Canada
Jasper National Park, located in the Canadian Rockies, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. Did you know it is the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies?
- Major Attractions: Maligne Lake, the Columbia Icefield, and the Jasper SkyTram.
- Popular Activities: Hiking, camping, wildlife viewing, and scenic drive along the Icefields Parkway.
- Famous Dishes: Alberta beef, poutine (french fries topped with gravy and cheese curds), and maple syrup.
- Best Time to Visit: June to September, when the weather is warm, and the park’s facilities and trails are open.
5. Jaisalmer, India
Jaisalmer, known as the “Golden City,” is a breathtaking destination in the Indian state of Rajasthan. Did you see the city is named after its founder, Maharawal Jaisal Singh?
- Major Attractions: Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon Ki Haveli, and the Gadisar Lake.
- Popular Activities: Exploring the fort, taking a camel safari in the Thar Desert, and visiting the nearby villages.
- Famous Dishes: Gatte ki sabzi (a curry made with gram flour dumplings), ker sangri (a dish made with desert beans and berries), and dal baati churma (a traditional Rajasthani meal).
- Best Time to Visit: November to February, when the weather is pleasant and cool.
6. Juneau, Alaska, USA
Juneau, the capital of Alaska, is a stunning coastal city surrounded by mountains and glaciers. Did you know that Juneau is the only U.S. state capital that cannot be reached by road?
- Major Attractions: Mendenhall Glacier, Tracy Arm Fjord, and the Mount Roberts Tramway.
- Popular Activities: Whale watching, hiking, and visiting the Alaska State Museum.
- Famous Dishes: Alaskan king crab, smoked salmon, and wild berry cobbler.
- Best Time to Visit: May to September, when the weather is milder and the days are longer.
7. Johannesburg, South Africa
Johannesburg, the largest city in South Africa, is a vibrant metropolis known for its rich history and cultural diversity. Did you see the city is home to the world’s largest man-made forest?
- Major Attractions: The Apartheid Museum, Gold Reef City, and the Cradle of Humankind.
- Popular Activities: Going on a safari in the nearby Kruger National Park, visiting the vibrant neighborhoods of Soweto, and exploring the city’s many markets.
- Famous Dishes: Boerewors (a type of sausage), biltong (dried, cured meat), and malva pudding (a sweet pudding).
- Best Time to Visit: March to May or September to November, when the weather is mild and dry.
8. Jakarta, Indonesia
Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia, is a bustling city known for its diverse culture, historical sites, and modern amenities. Did you know that Jakarta is the largest city in Southeast Asia?
- Major Attractions: The National Monument (Monas), the Istiqlal Mosque, and the Jakarta Old Town.
- Popular Activities: Shopping at shopping malls and markets, trying street food, and visiting the Thousand Islands.
- Famous Dishes: Nasi goreng (fried rice), satay (skewered and grilled meat), and rendang (a spicy meat dish).
- Best Time to Visit: June to September, when the weather is dry and pleasant.
9. Jiufen, Taiwan
Jiufen is a charming mountain town in northern Taiwan, known for its stunning views, rich history, and quaint streets lined with red lanterns. The town gained fame as the inspiration for the iconic Japanese animated film Spirited Away. Did you know that Jiufen was once a prosperous gold mining town during the Japanese occupation of Taiwan?
- Major Attractions: Jiufen Old Street, the Gold Mine Museum, and the Shengping Theater.
- Popular Activities: Exploring the narrow alleyways and shops of Jiufen Old Street, sampling local street food, and taking in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and sea.
- Famous Dishes: Taro balls (a sweet dessert made from taro root), fish ball soup (a savory soup with fish balls and noodles), and peanut ice cream roll (a traditional dessert made with peanut shavings and ice cream).
- Best Time to Visit: March to May or October to November, when the weather is mild and comfortable, and the crowds are smaller than the peak summer months.
10. Jbeil, Lebanon
Jbeil, also known as Byblos, is a charming coastal city in Lebanon, famous for its ancient history, picturesque old town, and beautiful beaches. Did you know that Jbeil is considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world?
- Major Attractions: Byblos Castle, the Old Souk, and the Byblos Fossil Museum.
- Popular Activities: Exploring the ancient ruins, strolling through the old town, and relaxing on the beaches.
- Famous Dishes: Kibbeh (a dish made with bulgur, minced onions, and ground meat), manakish (a traditional Lebanese pizza), and knafeh (a sweet cheese pastry).
- Best Time to Visit: April to May or September to November, when the weather is mild and pleasant.
11. Jaco, Costa Rica
Jaco is a popular beach town on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast. It is known for its excellent surfing, vibrant nightlife, and beautiful natural surroundings. Did you know Jaco is one of the closest beaches to Costa Rica’s capital, San José?
- Major Attractions: Jaco Beach, Carara National Park, and the Neo Fauna Wildlife Rescue Center.
- Popular Activities: Surfing, zip-lining, hiking in the national park, and watching the sunset on the beach.
- Famous Dishes: Gallo pinto (a dish made with rice and beans), casado (a traditional Costa Rican meal), and ceviche (raw fish marinated in citrus juice).
- Best Time to Visit: December to April, during the dry season.
12. Jeju Island, South Korea
Jeju Island is a stunning volcanic island off the southern coast of South Korea, known for its beautiful beaches, unique culture, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Did you know Jeju Island is often called the “Hawaii of South Korea”?
- Major Attractions: Hallasan National Park, Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak), and the Manjanggul Cave.
- Popular Activities: Hiking, visiting the beaches, exploring the lava tubes, and trying local seafood.
- Famous Dishes: Jeju black pork, Jeju-style abalone, and hallabong (a type of citrus fruit native to the island).
- Best Time to Visit: March to May or September to November, when the weather is mild and pleasant.
13. Jericoacoara, Brazil
Jericoacoara, often called “Jeri,” is a stunning beach town in northeastern Brazil, known for its pristine beaches, laid-back atmosphere, and incredible dunes. Did you know that Jericoacoara was once a small fishing village that could only be accessed by 4×4 vehicles?
- Major Attractions: Sunset Dune, Blue Lagoon, and the Pedra Furada rock formation.
- Popular Activities: Kitesurfing, sandboarding, horseback riding on the beach, and watching the sunset from the dunes.
- Famous Dishes: Tapioca (a type of crepe made from cassava starch), camarão na moranga (shrimp served in a pumpkin), and açaí (a refreshing berry smoothie).
- Best Time to Visit: July to December, during the dry season.
14. Jhansi, India
Jhansi is a historical city in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, ancient forts, and association with the legendary queen, Rani Lakshmibai. Did you know that Jhansi played a significant role in the Indian Rebellion of 1857 against British rule?
- Major Attractions: Jhansi Fort, Rani Mahal, and the Government Museum.
- Popular Activities: Exploring the forts and palaces, visiting the museums, and attending the Jhansi Festival.
- Famous Dishes: Bedai (a type of deep-fried bread), bafauri (a spicy potato dish), and paan (a traditional Indian mouth freshener).
- Best Time to Visit: October to March, when the weather is pleasant and cool.
15. Jackson Hole, Wyoming, USA
Jackson Hole is a beautiful valley in Wyoming, surrounded by the majestic Teton Mountains. Did you know the valley is named after Davey Jackson, a trapper who found the area in the early 1800s?
- Major Attractions: Grand Teton National Park, the National Elk Refuge, and the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.
- Popular Activities: Skiing, hiking, wildlife viewing, and taking a scenic drive through the park.
- Famous Dishes: Elk burgers, huckleberry pie, and bison steak.
- Best Time to Visit: December to March for skiing or June to September for hiking and other outdoor activities.
16. Jeonju, South Korea
Jeonju is a charming city in South Korea, known for its traditional architecture, delicious cuisine, and rich cultural heritage. Did you know Jeonju is the birthplace of bibimbap, a popular Korean dish?
- Major Attractions: Jeonju Hanok Village, Gyeonggijeon Shrine, and the Jeonju Traditional Wine Museum.
- Popular Activities: Exploring the hanok village, trying local street food, and learning about traditional Korean paper-making.
- Famous Dishes: Bibimbap (rice mixed with vegetables and meat), kongnamul gukbap (soybean sprout soup with rice), and choco pie (a chocolate-covered marshmallow snack).
- Best Time to Visit: April to May or September to November, when the weather is mild and pleasant.
17. Jodhpur, India
Jodhpur, also known as the “Blue City,” is a stunning destination in the Indian state of Rajasthan. Did you know that the city’s blue houses were originally painted to signify that they belonged to the Brahmin caste?
- Major Attractions: Mehrangarh Fort, Umaid Bhawan Palace, and the Jaswant Thada Memorial.
- Popular Activities: Explore the fort, shop for traditional handicrafts, and take a jeep safari in the Thar Desert.
- Famous Dishes: Mirchi vada (spicy snacks made with green chilies), makhaniya lassi (a rich, creamy yogurt drink), and ghevar (a sweet, disc-shaped dessert).
- Best Time to Visit: October to March, when the weather is pleasant and cool.
18. Jaffna, Sri Lanka
Jaffna is a vibrant city in northern Sri Lanka, known for its unique culture, ancient temples, and delicious cuisine. Did you know that Jaffna is home to the Nallur Kandaswamy Temple, one of the most important Hindu temples in Sri Lanka?
- Major Attractions: Nallur Kandaswamy Temple, Jaffna Fort, and the Jaffna Public Library.
- Popular Activities: Visiting the temples, trying local seafood dishes, and exploring the nearby islands.
- Famous Dishes: Jaffna crab curry, odiyal kool (a seafood soup), and Jaffna mango.
- Best Time to Visit: The weather is dry and pleasant from December to March.
19. Jiuzhaigou
Jiuzhaigou is a stunning nature reserve in China’s Sichuan province, known for its colorful lakes, waterfalls, and forests. Did you know that the park’s name means “Nine Village Valley,” referring to the nine Tibetan villages in the valley?
- Major Attractions: Nuorilang Waterfall, Five Flower Lake, and the Shuzheng Valley.
- Popular Activities: Hiking, taking scenic bus tours, and photographing the stunning landscapes.
- Famous Dishes: Sichuan hotpot, kung pao chicken, and mapo tofu.
- Best Time to Visit: April to May or September to November, when the weather is mild, and the dark colors are most vibrant.
20. Jingdezhen, China
Jingdezhen is a city in China’s Jiangxi province, known as the “Porcelain Capital” for its long history of producing high-quality ceramics. Did you know that Jingdezhen has been producing porcelain for over 1,700 years?
- Major Attractions: Ancient Porcelain Kiln Museum, Ceramic Historical Museum, and the Fuliang River.
- Popular Activities: Visiting the museums, watching pottery demonstrations, and shopping for ceramics.
- Famous Dishes: Jingdezhen rice noodles, braised pork with bamboo shoots, and Jingdezhen-style fried rice.
- Best Time to Visit: March to May or September to November, when the weather is mild and comfortable.
21. Jog Falls, Karnataka, India
- Major Attractions: The Jog Falls, the Linganamakki Dam, and the Sharavati River.
- Popular Activities: Viewing the magnificent waterfall, hiking in the surrounding forests, and taking a boat ride on the Sharavati River.
- Famous Dishes: Akki roti (a flatbread made from rice flour), kori roti (a spicy chicken curry served with crispy rice wafers), and neer dosa (a thin, crepe-like dish made from rice batter).
- Best Time to Visit: The waterfall is most impressive from August to October, during the monsoon season. However, the area can be visited year-round for its natural beauty and serene surroundings.
22. Jammu, India
Jammu is a city in the northern Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, known for its ancient temples, beautiful palaces, and vibrant culture. Did you know that Jammu is often called the “City of Temples” due to the numerous temples found in the city and its surroundings?
- Major Attractions: Raghunath Temple, Amar Mahal Palace Museum, and Bahu Fort.
- Popular Activities: Visiting the temples and palaces, exploring the local markets, and taking a cable car ride to the Bahu Fort.
- Famous Dishes: Rajma (red kidney beans curry), kalari (a type of cheese), and patisa (a sweet made from flour and sugar).
- Best Time to Visit: October to March, when the weather is pleasant and cool.
23. Jönköping, Sweden
Jönköping is a charming city in southern Sweden, located on the shores of Lake Vättern. Known for its beautiful natural surroundings, historic churches, and outdoor activities, Jonkoping is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Did you know Jonkoping is home to the Husqvarna Museum, showcasing the history of the famous Swedish company known for its outdoor power products and motorcycles?
- Major Attractions: Jönköping County Museum, Sofiakyrkan Church, and the Rosenlund Rosarium.
- Popular Activities: Hiking in the nearby forests, fishing in Lake Vättern, and exploring the city’s parks and gardens.
- Famous Dishes: Isterband (a type of sausage), ostkaka (a cheesecake-like dessert), and lingonberry jam.
- Best Time to Visit: When the weather is mild and pleasant, the city comes alive with outdoor activities and events from June to August.
24. Jahangir Mahal, Orchha, India
Jahangir Mahal is a stunning palace in the historic town of Orchha, Madhya Pradesh, India. Built in the early 17th century, it is known for its unique blend of Hindu and Mughal architectural styles, intricate stone carvings, and beautiful frescoes. Did you know that Maharaja Bir Singh Deo built Jahangir Mahal as a guest house for the Mughal Emperor Jahangir?
- Major Attractions: Jahangir Mahal, Raja Mahal, and the Chaturbhuj Temple.
- Popular Activities: Exploring the palaces and temples, taking a boat ride on the Betwa River, and visiting the nearby Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Famous Dishes: Bafla (a type of hard wheat roll), chakki ki sabzi (a curry made with wheat dough dumplings), and kusli (a sweet made from wheat flour and ghee).
- Best Time to Visit: October to March, when the weather is pleasant and cool, perfect for exploring the historic town and its attractions.
25. Joshimath, Uttarakhand, India
Joshimath is a high-altitude town in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand, known as the gateway to several Himalayan expeditions and pilgrimage sites. Surrounded by stunning snow-capped peaks and lush green valleys, Joshimath is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Did you know that Joshimath is home to the Narasimha Temple, one of the most important shrines dedicated to Lord Vishnu?
- Major Attractions: Narasimha Temple, Nanda Devi National Park, and the Tapovan hot springs.
- Popular Activities: Trekking and hiking in the nearby mountains, skiing in winter, and visiting ancient temples.
- Famous Dishes: Kafuli (a curry made with spinach and fenugreek leaves), chainsoo (a type of stuffed flatbread), and bal mithai (a sweet made from khoya and coated with sugar balls).
- Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to November, when the weather is mild and pleasant and the trekking routes are open.
26. Jingzhou, China
Jingzhou is a historic city in China’s Hubei province, known for its well-preserved ancient city walls, beautiful temples, and rich cultural heritage. The city has a history of over 2,000 years and was once an important center of trade and culture along the Yangtze River. Did you know that Jingzhou is home to the Jingzhou Museum, which houses an impressive collection of artifacts from the ancient Chu Kingdom?
- Major Attractions: Jingzhou Ancient City Wall, Kaiyuan Taoist Temple, and the Jingzhou Museum.
- Popular Activities: Walking along the ancient city walls, visiting the temples and museums, and taking a boat ride on the Yangtze River.
- Famous Dishes: Jingzhou fish ball soup, Jingzhou lotus root starch, and Jingzhou tofu skin.
- Best Time to Visit: March to May and September to November, when the weather is mild and comfortable, and the city’s parks and gardens are most beautiful.
27. Jurmala, Latvia
Jurmala is a picturesque seaside resort town located just outside the Latvian capital of Riga, known for its stunning sandy beaches, charming wooden architecture, and relaxing spa resorts. The city has been a popular summer retreat for centuries, attracting visitors from all over Europe with its tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty. Did you know that Jurmala’s name means “seaside” in Latvian?
- Major Attractions: Jomas Street, Dzintari Forest Park, and the Jurmala Open-Air Museum.
- Popular Activities: Relaxing on the beach, strolling through the historic town center, and visiting the nearby Kemeri National Park.
- Famous Dishes: Latvian rye bread, smoked fish, and Riga Black Balsam (a traditional Latvian herbal liqueur).
- Best Time to Visit: June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the town comes alive with summer activities and events.
28. Yazd, Iran
Yazd is an ancient desert city in central Iran, known for its unique architecture, historic sites, and Zoroastrian heritage. Did you know that Yazd is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world?
- Major Attractions: Amir Chakhmaq Complex, Dowlat Abad Garden, and the Yazd Towers of Silence.
- Popular Activities: Visiting the historic sites, exploring the bazaars, and learning about the Zoroastrian culture.
- Famous Dishes: yazdi cake (a sweet pastry filled with dates and nuts), shuli (a hearty meat and chickpea soup), and yazdi samosas.
- Best Time to Visit: March to May or September to November, when the weather is mild and comfortable for exploring the desert city.
29. Jujuy, Argentina
Jujuy is a province in northwest Argentina known for its stunning landscapes, colorful mountains, and rich cultural heritage. Did you know the Quebrada de Humahuaca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is in Jujuy?
- Major Attractions: Quebrada de Humahuaca, Salinas Grandes salt flats, and the Pucará de Tilcara fortress.
- Popular Activities: Hiking, exploring the colorful mountains, and visiting the indigenous markets.
- Famous Dishes: Locro (a hearty stew), empanadas (savory pastries), and humitas (a type of tamale).
- Best Time to Visit: April to November, when the weather is dry and mild.
30. Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Jeddah is a bustling port city on Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast, known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. Did you know that Jeddah is the gateway to the holy cities of Mecca and Medina?
- Major Attractions: Al-Balad (the historic city center), the Floating Mosque, and the Jeddah Corniche.
- Popular Activities: Explore the old city, shop in the traditional souks, and relax on the beaches.
- Famous Dishes: Kabsa (a spiced rice dish with meat), mandi (slow-cooked meat with rice), and tamees (a type of flatbread).
- Best Time to Visit: November to February, when the weather is mild and pleasant.
31. Juiz de Fora, Brazil
Juiz de Fora is a charming city in southeastern Brazil, known for its beautiful parks, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Did you know Juiz de Fora is nicknamed the “Manchester Mineira” due to its industrial past?
- Major Attractions: Mariano Procópio Museum, Parque Halfeld, and the Cine-Theatro Central.
- Popular Activities: Visiting the museums, strolling through the parks, and attending cultural events.
- Famous Dishes: Feijão tropeiro (a dish made with beans and bacon), pão de queijo (cheese bread), and goiabada (guava paste).
- Best Time to Visit: March to May or September to November, when the weather is mild and pleasant.
32. Junagadh, India
Junagadh is a historical city in the Indian state of Gujarat, known for its ancient fortifications, beautiful temples, and diverse wildlife. Did you know that the Junagadh Fort is one of the oldest forts in India, dating back to the 3rd century BCE?
- Major Attractions: Junagadh Fort, Uparkot Fort, and the Mahabat Maqbara mausoleum.
- Popular Activities: Exploring the forts, visiting the temples, and spotting wildlife at the Gir National Park.
- Famous Dishes: Kathiyawadi cuisine, including dishes like sev tamatar (a tomato-based dish with crispy noodles) and lasaniya bataka (garlic-flavored potatoes).
- Best Time to Visit: October to March, when the weather is pleasant and cool.
33. Jabalpur, India
Jabalpur is a city in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, known for its stunning natural beauty, historic sites, and vibrant culture. Did you know that Dhuandhar Falls, one of the most popular attractions in Jabalpur, has a smoky effect due to the force of the water?
- Major Attractions: Dhuandhar Falls, Madan Mahal Fort, and the Rani Durgavati Museum.
- Popular Activities: Visiting the waterfalls, exploring the forts, and shopping for traditional handicrafts.
- Famous Dishes: Bhutte ka kees (a dish made with grated corn), poha (flattened rice), and khoye ki jalebi (a sweet made with condensed milk).
- Best Time to Visit: October to March, when the weather is pleasant and cool.
34. Jinan, China
Jinan, the capital of China’s Shandong province, is known as the “City of Springs” for its numerous natural springs. Did you know that Jinan has over 100 named springs, the most famous of which is the Baotu Spring?
- Major Attractions: Baotu Spring, Daming Lake, and the Thousand Buddha Mountain.
- Popular Activities: Visiting the springs, boating on Daming Lake, and exploring the Buddhist caves and temples.
- Famous Dishes: Jinan-style roast duck, Jinan-style lamb soup, and Jinan-style fried chicken.
- Best Time to Visit: April to May or September to November, when the weather is mild and comfortable.
35. Jinja, Uganda
Jinja is a charming town in eastern Uganda, known as the “Adventure Capital of East Africa” for its numerous outdoor activities. Did you know that Jinja is located at the source of the Nile River, the longest river in the world?
- Major Attractions: Source of the Nile, Bujagali Falls, and the Jinja War Cemetery.
- Popular Activities: White-water rafting, kayaking, bungee jumping, and visiting the local markets.
- Famous Dishes: Matooke (a dish made with mashed plantains), luwombo (a stew steamed in banana leaves), and rolex (a chapati filled with eggs and vegetables).
- Best Time to Visit: During the dry seasons, December to February or June to August.
36. Juazeiro do Norte, Brazil
Juazeiro do Norte is a city in northeastern Brazil known for its religious significance and unique cultural traditions. Did you see the city is named after a famous Brazilian priest, Padre Cícero, who many locals consider a saint?
- Major Attractions: Padre Cícero statue, Horto Florestal Park, and the Cariri Valley.
- Popular Activities: Visiting the religious sites, hiking in the park, and exploring the local handicraft markets.
- Famous Dishes: Baião de dois (a dish made with rice, beans, and cheese), carne de sol (sun-dried meat), and rapadura (a type of unrefined sugar).
- Best Time to Visit: June to August, during the dry season.
37. Johor Bahru, Malaysia
Johor Bahru is the capital city of the Malaysian state of Johor. It is known for its modern attractions, delicious food, and proximity to Singapore. Did you know that the city is connected to Singapore by the Johor-Singapore Causeway, one of the busiest border crossings in the world?
- Major Attractions: Legoland Malaysia, Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple, and the Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque.
- Popular Activities: Visiting the theme parks, exploring the temples and mosques, and shopping at the local markets.
- Famous Dishes: Laksa Johor (a spicy noodle soup), otak-otak (a grilled fish cake), and roti canai (a type of flatbread).
- Best Time to Visit: March to October, during the dry season.
38. Jerash, Jordan
Jerash is an ancient northern Jordan city known for its well-preserved Roman ruins and rich history. Due to its extensive and well-preserved Roman architecture, Jerash is often called the “Pompeii of the East.”
- Major Attractions: Hadrian’s Arch, the Temple of Artemis, and the Oval Plaza.
- Popular Activities: Exploring the Roman ruins, attending the Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts, and visiting the nearby Ajloun Castle.
- Famous Dishes: Mansaf (a traditional Jordanian dish made with lamb and rice), musakhan (roasted chicken with onions and sumac), and knafeh (a sweet cheese pastry).
- Best Time to Visit: March to May or September to November, when the weather is mild and comfortable.
39. Jellyfish Lake, Palau
Jellyfish Lake is a marine lake on Eil Malk island in Palau, known for its incredible population of golden jellyfish. Did you know that the jellyfish in this lake have evolved to be virtually stingless due to the lack of predators?
- Major Attractions: The unique experience of swimming with millions of jellyfish.
- Popular Activities: Snorkeling in the lake, observing the jellyfish migration, and taking photographs of this surreal environment.
- Famous Dishes: Palauan cuisine includes coconut crab, grilled fish, and taro root.
- Best Time to Visit: You can visit year-round, but the best time for calm weather and clear water is from November to May.
40. Jagalchi Market, Busan, South Korea
Jagalchi Market is the largest seafood market in South Korea, located in the bustling port city of Busan. Did you know that the market gets its name from the Korean word “jackal,” which means “gravel,” referring to the rocky beach where it was originally located?
- Major Attractions: The market itself, with its wide variety of fresh seafood and local atmosphere.
- Popular Activities: Try fresh seafood, watch the lively market scene, and visit nearby attractions like Yongdusan Park and Busan Tower.
- Famous Dishes: Hoe (raw fish), gimbap (Korean-style seaweed rice rolls), and dwaeji gukbap (pork soup with rice).
- Best Time to Visit: You can visit year-round, but the best weather is from March to May and September to November.
41. Jiayuguan, China
Jiayuguan is a historic city in China’s Gansu province, known for its impressive Ming Dynasty-era fort and its location at the western end of the Great Wall of China. Did you know Jiayuguan was an important trading post along the ancient Silk Road?
- Major Attractions: Jiayuguan Pass (the Great Wall), the Great Wall Museum, and the Overhanging Great Wall.
- Popular Activities: Exploring the Great Wall and the fort, visiting the museum, and hiking in the nearby Qilian Mountains.
- Famous Dishes: Jiayuguan noodles, camel hoof (a local delicacy), and Jiuquan dates.
- Best Time to Visit: May to October, when the weather is mild and comfortable.
42. Juba, South Sudan
Juba is the capital and largest city of South Sudan, located on the White Nile River. Did you know that Juba became the capital of South Sudan when the country gained independence in 2011?
- Major Attractions: The All Saints Cathedral, the Juba Stadium, and the Nyakuron Cultural Center.
- Popular Activities: Visiting the local markets, attending cultural events, and taking a boat ride on the White Nile.
- Famous Dishes: Kisra (a type of flatbread), asida (a porridge made from sorghum or wheat), and wal wal (a stew made with dried okra and meat).
- Best Time to Visit: November to April, during the dry season.
43. Juliaca, Peru
Juliaca is a city in southern Peru known as the “Sock City” for its large-scale production of woolen socks and other textiles. Did you know that Juliaca is the capital of the San Román Province and an important transportation hub in the region?
- Major Attractions: The Virgen de las Mercedes Church, the Santa Catalina Convent, and the nearby Sillustani archaeological site.
- Popular Activities: Shopping for textiles, visiting the local markets, and exploring Lake Titicaca.
- Famous Dishes: Chairo (a hearty soup made with meat and vegetables), thimpo (a stew made with lamb and potatoes), and quinoa (a nutritious grain native to the Andes).
- Best Time to Visit: May to October, during the dry season.
44. Jajce, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Jajce is a historic town in central Bosnia and Herzegovina, known for its stunning waterfalls, medieval fortress, and rich cultural heritage. Did you know that Jajce was the capital of the independent Kingdom of Bosnia in the 14th century?
- Major Attractions: The Pliva Waterfall, Jajce Fortress, and the Catacomb Church.
- Popular Activities: Explore the old town, visit the museums, and hike in the nearby Pliva Lakes National Park.
- Famous Dishes: Ćevapi (grilled meat sausages), burek (a savory pastry filled with meat or cheese), and baklava (a sweet pastry made with phyllo dough and nuts).
- Best Time to Visit: May to September, when the weather is mild and comfortable.
45. Jungfraujoch, Switzerland
Jungfraujoch is a saddle between two peaks in the Bernese Alps of Switzerland, known as the “Top of Europe” due to its high elevation and stunning views. Did you know the Jungfraujoch railway station, at 3,454 meters (11,332 feet) above sea level, is the highest in Europe?
- Major Attractions: Sphinx Observatory, Ice Palace, and the Aletsch Glacier (the longest glacier in the Alps).
- Popular Activities: Enjoy the panoramic views, hike, ski, and visit the various attractions at the Jungfraujoch complex.
- Famous Dishes: Swiss cuisine includes fondue, raclette, and rösti (a potato dish).
- Best Time to Visit: The Jungfraujoch can be visited year-round, but the best weather for clear views is from May to October. Winter visits offer the opportunity for skiing and other snow activities.
Final Thoughts
Our journey through these 45 must-visit places, starting with the letter “J,” has taken us on a thrilling global adventure.
From the colorful streets of Jaipur to the stunning landscapes of Jiuzhaigou Valley, each destination has its own unique charm and fascinating history.
We’ve explored ancient ruins, indulged in delicious local cuisines, and marveled at these places’ natural wonders. Whether you’re a history buff, adventure seeker, or simply looking for a new travel experience, this list has something for everyone.
So, plan your next trip and prepare to create unforgettable memories in these incredible destinations.
Remember, the world is full of amazing places waiting to be discovered, and this is just the beginning of your journey.