Things to Do in Japan
Japan is a country of contrasts – where ancient traditions meet futuristic technology, serene temples coexist with neon-lit cityscapes, and peaceful nature harmonizes with bustling urban life. From the bright lights of Tokyo to the quiet temples of Kyoto, there is no shortage of unforgettable experiences waiting for you. Here’s a guide to the top things to do when you visit Japan.
1. Visit the Iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine
Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto is one of Japan’s most famous landmarks, with its stunning rows of bright orange torii gates leading up the forested Mount Inari. The hundreds of gates are a photographer’s dream, and you can take a peaceful walk through them all the way to the summit for a beautiful view of the city. The shrine is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice and agriculture, and visiting it feels like stepping into a sacred space surrounded by nature.
2. Explore the Temples of Kyoto
Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital, is home to over 1,000 temples, each offering a unique glimpse into the country’s spiritual and architectural history. Don’t miss the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), a Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf, or the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where towering bamboo stalks create a tranquil atmosphere. With its breathtaking beauty, Kyoto offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and serenity.
3. Marvel at Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji is Japan’s highest and most iconic peak, and a must-visit for nature lovers and hikers. Whether you want to climb to the top or simply admire its majestic beauty from below, Fuji is an unforgettable sight. Hiking to the summit is a challenging yet rewarding experience, but if you’re short on time, you can enjoy the view from one of the nearby lakes, like Lake Kawaguchi, or take a scenic ride on the Fujikyuko Railway.
4. Experience the Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo
Tokyo is a city that never sleeps, and one of its most iconic spots is the Shibuya Crossing – often referred to as the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing. At any given moment, hundreds of people cross from all directions, creating a mesmerizing urban dance. The best way to experience it is to stand on one of the elevated viewing platforms at Shibuya Station, where you can watch the organized chaos unfold below. It’s an exhilarating sight and the heart of Tokyo’s fast-paced culture.
5. Relax in an Onsen (Hot Spring)
Japan is famous for its onsen (hot springs), and nothing beats a soak in the steaming waters surrounded by scenic landscapes. Whether you’re in the mountains, on the coast, or in the city, there’s an onsen to suit every traveler’s needs. Popular hot spring destinations include Hakone, where you can enjoy views of Mount Fuji while you relax, and Beppu, famous for its mud baths. Just remember to follow the bathing etiquette – be sure to wash thoroughly before entering the communal hot spring baths.
6. Enjoy Sushi and Other Japanese Cuisine
No trip to Japan is complete without indulging in its world-renowned cuisine. Start with sushi, and sample the freshest fish you can find, from the high-end restaurants of Tokyo to the conveyor-belt sushi spots in Osaka. Ramen lovers should head to Fukuoka for the city’s famous tonkotsu ramen or slurp up some miso-based noodles in Sapporo. Don’t forget to try tempura, takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and matcha-flavored sweets during your culinary journey across Japan!
7. Visit Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park
Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park is a poignant reminder of the devastation caused by the atomic bomb during World War II. The park is home to the Peace Memorial Museum, which chronicles the events of that fateful day in 1945, and the Atomic Bomb Dome, a preserved building that still stands as a symbol of resilience and peace. Visiting Hiroshima is a moving experience, offering a chance to reflect on the importance of peace and remembrance.
8. Explore the Ancient Town of Kanazawa
Kanazawa is one of Japan’s hidden gems, a city that combines traditional charm with a touch of modernity. It’s home to Kenroku-en, one of Japan’s most beautiful gardens, as well as well-preserved samurai and geisha districts. Wander through the narrow streets of the Higashi Chaya District, lined with historic teahouses, and don’t miss the Omicho Market for a taste of fresh seafood and local delicacies.
9. Take a Bullet Train (Shinkansen)
The Shinkansen, or bullet train, is a must-experience when traveling in Japan. These sleek, high-speed trains whisk you between major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto in record time, all while offering comfort and incredible efficiency. Whether you’re zooming through the countryside at 200 miles per hour or enjoying the view from a train window, riding the Shinkansen is one of the most iconic travel experiences in Japan.
10. Discover the Traditional Village of Shirakawa-go
Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a stunning village located in the mountains of Gifu Prefecture. Known for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses with steep thatched roofs, this picturesque village looks like it’s straight out of a storybook. In winter, the village is especially magical when the snow blankets the roofs, creating a fairytale-like scene. Visiting Shirakawa-go offers a rare opportunity to experience Japan’s rural charm and traditional way of life.
11. Go Cherry Blossom Viewing (Hanami)
Spring in Japan is all about cherry blossoms (sakura), and there’s no better way to experience the season than by participating in a traditional hanami (flower viewing) picnic. Head to one of Japan’s famous cherry blossom spots, like Ueno Park in Tokyo or Maruyama Park in Kyoto, and enjoy the beauty of the delicate pink flowers. The sight of trees bursting into bloom across the country is a true symbol of renewal and a beloved part of Japanese culture.
12. Visit the Historic Nara Deer Park
Just a short trip from Kyoto, Nara is home to the famous Nara Deer Park, where hundreds of free-roaming, friendly deer live among the city’s historical sites. These sacred animals are said to be messengers of the gods, and you can feed them special crackers sold around the park. While you’re there, be sure to visit the impressive Todai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha statue, which is one of the largest wooden structures in the world.