20 Best Things to Do in Japan
Japan is a country that lives up to the hype, but planning a trip there can feel overwhelming.
This guide narrows down the noise to highlight the best things to do in Japan for your bucket list.
1. Indulge on the Freshest Sashimi
Your trip to Japan wouldn’t be complete if you miss out on watching fresh-caught fish being auctioned off.
At Toyosu Fish Market in Tokyo, you can get a bird’s-eye view from an observation corridor overlooking the action. Be sure to arrive early as the fish will be the freshest and it won’t be as crowded.
Toyosu opened in 2018 and replaced the famous Tsukiji Fish Market as the largest seafood market in the world.
2. Go Bar-hopping at Shinjuku Golden Gai
Located in a narrow, maze-like alleyway in Shinjuku is a collection of over 200 small bars as well as a wide selection of eateries.
If you’re itching for a drink, an intimate bar-hopping tour is one of the most adventurous things to do in Japan.
Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll unlock secret Izakaya spots across two atmospheric yokocho (alley districts), savoring authentic Japanese street food and drinks.
3. Soak in an Onsen
Since ancient times, the locals have observed a bathing culture in hot springs (onsen) which has evolved to a form of therapy meant to relax and rejuvenate the soul.
Dipping in a Japanese hot spring is not only soothing to your muscles but also a great way to experience a culture that has been passed down through the generations for years.
Due to the volcanic activity in the country, Japan boasts over 27,000 natural onsens which can be found in resorts, spa, public baths, and ryokans (traditional inns). Be sure to add this to your Japan bucket list!
4. See Snow Monkeys at Jigokudani Park
Jigokudani Park is one of the most unique places to visit on earth and among the top things to see in Japan. The park is home to the Japanese Macaques, popularly known as snow monkeys.
Here you can watch these wild creatures go about their usual business, including the unique habit of bathing in a natural hot spring — a distinctive behavior that’s only common with this troop.
This conservation park was established in 1964 to contain the species within an area that was already their natural habitat.
5. Flower Tunnels at Kawachi Wisteria Garden
Exploding with vibrant colors of wisteria flowers, this garden is tucked in the remote hills of an area in southern Kitakyushu City.
Privately run and tucked into the hills of Kitakyushu, Kawachi Fujien is one of Japan’s most famous spring flower spots, opening during wisteria season and drawing visitors eager to see its dreamlike tunnels in full bloom.
The garden’s two wisteria tunnels are the star attraction, each stretching roughly 100 meters and creating one of the most striking floral walks in Japan. Keep in mind, blooming of the flowers is seasonal so timing is key!
To experience the Kawachi Wisteria Garden at its peak, the best time to visit would typically be between the last week of April and a few days into May.
Even then, it’s a good idea to check their main website for updated information on when the blooming will likely to be at its best.
6. Take a Ride on a Bullet Train
One of the must do’s in Japan is riding a Shinkansen – one of the fastest bullet trains in the world. Since the first Shinkansen line launched in 1964, Japan’s high-speed rail network has grown into one of the country’s greatest travel flexes.
On the Tokaido Shinkansen, trains link major cities like Tokyo, Nagoya, Kyoto, and Osaka at speeds up to 285 km/h (177 mph), turning long intercity journeys into smooth, scenery-filled rides as the train winds through metropolis, bare wilderness and rustic towns!
If you’re planning to travel to more than one city in the country, the Japan Rail Pass is a great option and could be a lot more cost-efficient than flying.
7. Sagano Bamboo Forest
One of Japan’s most iconic sights, the bamboo grove in Arashiyama feels a world away from central Kyoto, even though it’s an easy trip from the city. If you’re craving a quick breather from the crowds and concrete, this is the place to do it.
The towering bamboo stalks and the sun’s rays peeking through the dense forest invokes a sense of tranquillity and an intimate scene with nature.
The iconic Sagano Bamboo Forest is one of the most photographed places in Kyoto but despite being extremely popular, the serenity you feel as you walk through the path cutting through the forest is unrivaled.
Or give your weary feet some rest and take a rickshaw ride through the forest instead.
8. Hike the Kumano Kodo Trail
For over a millennium, Japanese locals have trekked through the Kumano region in search of spiritual healing.
The Kumano Kodo is a massive network of many interlinked trails with a single destination, ancient holy sites — some of which are still standing!
The shrines of Hayatama, Hongu, and Nachi collectively form Kumano Sanzan, an area that was regarded as a cultural landscape.
Today, the trails are not only explored for their Buddhism and Shintoism significance, but also a place of supreme natural beauty that anyone can experience.
This region is also famous for its varied terrain, from lush forests to stunning shores, and it’s also home to the legendary Nachi Falls, the tallest waterfall in Japan.
9. Go Temple & Shrine Hopping
Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples are spread everywhere across the country and are among the best things to see in Japan. If you’re not on a spiritual journey, then you’ll be in for some relaxing ambiance!
Kyoto is one of the best places to start as the town is dotted with hundreds of shrines 17 of which are listed by UNESCO World Heritage – all of which are charming in their architectural magnificence, art, and beautiful gardens.
10. Stay in a Capsule Hotel
Capsule hotels are an unconventional way to spend your nights during your stay in Japan.
They may not be regarded as the pinnacle of relaxation, but they’re affordable, convenient, and provide enough privacy. What an iconic way to spend a night in such a modernized country!
Capsule hotels are pod-like compartments stacked together — offering a no-frills experience as far as amenities and space go.
Most are equipped with basic amenities such as air conditioner, lighting, and an alarm clock.
11. Spend a Day Binging on Ramen
If you’re a foodie, you have every reason to crave the Japanese specialty — Ramen. Although imported from China, this noodle soup meal has become one of Japan’s most popular dishes in recent decades.
There are countless variations of this delicacy but they’re typically categorized based on the soup. You’ll find thousands of ramen-ya (ramen shops) spread across every corner of the bustling Japanese streets.
12. See Sumo Wrestlers in Action
Sumo is a form of traditional Japanese wrestling with cultural significance and strong ties to the Shinto religion. In ancient times, this nationally acclaimed sport was a way to entertain the deities.
There are tournaments in Tokyo every year in January, May, and September and they last for 15 days.
A sumo basho (tournament) is unmissable and it’s one of the best things to see in Japan! When you compare it to contemporary wrestling matches, Sumo is a unique sport and interestingly entertaining to watch.
13. Find the Best Views of Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has an almost perfectly symmetrical peak, standing over 3700 meters above the sea level.
Mount Fuji is the tallest mountain in Japan and among the most photographed landmarks in the world.
Hiking the mountain would be the best way to experience the charm of this iconic mountain, however, the hiking season is relatively short and only lasts between early July to early September. Activities on Mount Fuji is not permitted during the snow season.
You don’t have to hike Mount Fuji to get the best views though — you can get really amazing photos as long as you know where the best views of Mount Fuji are!
Some of the best viewpoints include Arakurayama Sengen Park, Lake Kawaguchi near Oishi Park, Asagiri Kogen, and from the bullet train if you’re taking a ride from Tokyo to Kyoto or Osaka.
14. Dine at Tokyo’s Samurai Restaurant
If neon lights, bumpin’ loud music, and robotic performances sound like your kind of thing, you might want to consider visiting this “only in Japan” restaurant.
Situated in Shinjuku, the perfect place to enjoy some nightlife in Tokyo, Samurai Restaurant (formerly known as the Robot Restaurant) has earned a wild international reputation.
This themed restaurant is a spot for controlled madness, making it the perfect place to loosen up and humorously enjoy the Japanese culture.
15. Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
One of the most deadly attacks in the history of war and the first-ever atomic bombing, the city of Hiroshima was at the receiving end when the US launched a nuclear attack on August 6, 1945, during the final days of World War II.
Today, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum serves as a stark reminder of that tragic day. There are displays of salvaged items and artifacts from the aftermath of the nuclear attack.
If you happen to visit in August, there’s a commemoration ceremony that takes place in the area every year on the 6th.
16. Visit the Ghibli Museum
At this whimsical museum, the best work by one of Japan’s greatest animation studio, Studio Ghibli, is showcased here. Located on the outskirts of central Tokyo in Mitaka, some refer to the Ghibli Museum as the “Japanese Disney”.
Studio Ghibli has produced some noteworthy films with worldwide distribution. You may already be familiar with titles such as Spirited Away and My Neighbor Totoro.
If you’re a fan of Ghibli’s work, this one of the must-sees in Japan. Be sure to buy your tickets in advance as only a limited number are sold and they are hard to come by!
17. Take a Day Trip to Universal Studios Japan
Relive the magic of Universal Studios, this time with a Japanese twist! You’ll see amazing sights such as Hogwarts Castle towering over the park, familiar attractions like Jurassic Park, and Japanese exclusives like Hello Kitty.
No matter your age, this amusement park is a joy for all. If you’re planning to visit, be sure to buy your tickets in advance and try to visit on a weekday.
18. Eat Your Way Through Osaka
From amazing street food favorites like Takoyaki and Japanese omelets to high-end restaurants, an Osaka food tour can satisfy all of your cravings.
If that’s not enough, immerse yourself further into the local Japanese food culture and take cooking lessons. You’ll learn how to make Japanese staples such as ramen and sushi.
19. Participate in a Traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony
What’s more traditional than a Japanese tea ceremony? Not only do you get to experience and learn about the cultural significance of the ceremony but you also learn how to brew your own cup of tea artistically.
And no, it’s not as simple as just sitting down with your friends and having a spot of tea. In Japan, it’s a choreographed ritual and a full-length formal ceremony typically several hours.
20. Rip Through the Streets Mario Kart Style
If you’re a fan of Mario Kart or just looking for a thrill, then you need to add this to your list of must-do things in Japan. It’s exactly what it sounds like.
Hop into a street go-kart tour and cruise through Tokyo with the city flying past around you. Just make sure you bring the proper license, since these rides operate on real public roads.
