Japan is , no doubt, a breathtaking, bewildering and diverse country full of mild-blowing thrills and surprises. Home to serene shrines, mouthwatering cuisine, scenic landscapes and quirky man-made attractions, Japan has a lot to offer to everyone. From futuristic skyscrapers and over-the-top arcades to ancient temples, there’s no shortage of exciting and memorable things to do in Japan. Here are some tips and suggestions to take note when creating a list of things to do in Japan.
1. Mount Fuji , Tokyo
With its jaw-dropping picture-perfect symmetry and incredible elevation of 3,776 meters, Mount Fuji is truly a must-see icon in Japan!
2. Fushimi Inari , Kyoto With its alluring and seemingly endless path of more than 500 vibrant orange torii gates, this Japan attraction will amaze its beholders.
3. Tsukiji Fish Market , Tokyo Although the market was officially moved to a new and more contemporary location, Tsukiji remains a must-see spot, thanks to its fresh seafood and smorgasbord tasty treats.
4. Kinkakuji , Kyoto Whether it’s set against a vibrant autumn backdrop or capped by snow, nothing is as exquisite and symbolic if Kyoto as Kinkakuji’s golden reflection that reflects across the pond’s rippled surface.
5. Shibuya Crossing , Tokyo There’s nowhere else that says “Welcome to Tokyo” than this scramble with its humongous billboards, dazzling lights and beautifully chaotic ambiance.
6. Tea Ceremony , Kyoto, Tokyo, Osaka It’s a unique Zen-like experience that will give you a taste of the Japanese Culture and hospitality while wearing an elaborate and comfortable kimono,.
7. Hida Takayama , Gifu Located in a mountainous region in Gifu Prefecture, this beautiful town exudes an old world charm, thanks to its rustic touches, traditional thatch-roof houses and relaxing backdrop.
8. Dotonbori Bridge, Osaka Filled with bars, clubs and towering neon signs, Dotonbori Bridge is where you can enjoy a good view of the Glico Man as well as the futuristic neon cityscape of the area.
9. Universal Studios Japan, Osaka With a wide collection of world-class entertainment to offer, it has a world of thrills and activities for visitors of all ages.
10. Nara Deer Park, Nara – Kyoto Opened in 1880, this historic park is home to most of Nara’s main attractions, and more importantly, to hundreds of friendly deer roaming freely.
11. Todaiji, Nara- Kyoto Built in 752, this elaborate landmark is historically important and home to one of the largest bronze statues in Japan, which is 15 meters tall.
12. Mount Koya They don’t call Mount Koya as the holiest mountain in Japan for nothing. Established by a monk named Kukai in 819, this mountain is a Buddhist community and a hub of the Shingon school of Buddhism. Not to mention, the mountain houses over 100 monasteries and temples. Tip: There are plenty of hiking areas around Mount Koya, including he multi-day, 70-kilometer UNESCO World Heritage Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Route.
13. Sumo Game & Sumo Practice Originated as a performance to appease the Shinto deities in ancient times, this Japanese wrestling style is the official national sport of Japan. It’s an action-packed and unique contest, and watching it is one of the must-try things to do in Japan. Besides the exciting matches, it also gives you a glimpse of the Japanese culture and its old traditions. Tip: The best way to experience it is to attend a sumo tournament in Japan. They can be bought at buysumotickets.com or an official vendor. .
14. Kiyomizu Dera With more than 1,200 years of history, Kiyomizudera is, by far, one of the most popular and celebrated temples in Japan. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, this temple impresses visitors with its stunning architecture and gorgeous panoramic views. Tip: Make sure to wish a long-lasting loving relationship at the wondrous Jishu Shrine and drink Otowa no Taki waterfall’s sacred water, which teems with positive energy and good karma.
15.Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Standing amid its towering stalks of bamboo is a surreal experience and like being in another dimension. Just imagine yourself staring down a never-ending pathway of green swaying boughs, The stalks soar above you, allowing the sunlight to gently filter in. Tip: Visit it at sunset or early in the morning to steer clear of the crowds. This Japan attraction is open 24 hours a day.
16.Asakusa Temple Most travelers and locals come to Asakusa Shrine to pray for success in business, happiness of their family, speedy recovery, or good health. Shingan jyoyu, which practically means that anything you wish from the heart will be granted, is a divine favor granted at this shrine. So, whatever you wish, when made in earnest, is said to come true. Tip: Spend some time admiring the sheer size and intricate details of Kaminarimon Gate.
17. Kobe Beef Kobe Beef is a beloved Japanese delicacy and arguably Japan’s most famous specialty regional food. It’s one of the numerous Japanese cattle (Wagyu) breeds, which are known for its flavorful and tender meat marbled with fat. Of course, the best place to savor this beef is in Kobe. Tip: While it’s popular among foreign travelers, the Japanese think Tajima-gyu is the best.
18. Himeji Castle With its unrivaled elegance and picture-perfect white facade, it’s easy to see why they call Himeji as the most spectacular castle in Japan. Not only is it a national treasure, but it’s also a UNESCO world heritage site, meaning it’s one of the best things to do in Japan. Tip: Expect huge crowds here, especially on weekends. To avoid an hour of waiting in the long queues, arrive 10 minutes before its opening time, 10 AM. Quieter months are June, December,January and February.
19. Kokoen Garden
Kokoen garden, Near Himeji Castle, japanese garden, hyōgo, Japanese friendship garden, unique flowers, beautiful in all seasons.
20. Hiroshima Peace Memorial
Hiroshima peace memorial, atomic bomb dome, hiroshima peace memorial park, memorial, unique feeling, great learning experience, not far from the Miyajima island and Itsukushima Jinja.
21. Meiji Jingu
Meiji jingu, meiji shrine, shibuya, Tokyo, shinto shrine, Japan, very large park, historical buildings, giant Tori-gate, most popular spot in Tokyo.
25. Nijo Castlenijō castle, the most popular castle in Kyoto, flatland castle, ninja, located in the city centre, beautiful small castle.
26. Ryoanji
Ryoanji temple, meditation, zen garden, most famous rock garden, Kyoto, great spot, fun, world famous, UNESCO world heritage site.
27. Kenrokuen
kenrokuen, one of the most famous Japanese gardens, old private garden, japanese garden, great gardens of japan, beauty , cherry blossoms, pine trees, beautiful park, japan
28. Shinsaibashi Street Food
Best place to eat street food, great place for shopping, shinsaibashi street food, palace for shopping, place for eating, heart of osaka, Dotonbori, Namba. Shinsaibashi and Dotonbori are not different places.
30. Kaiyukan AquariumJapan’s 2nd largest aquarium, family fun, for family with kids, entertainment, fun, aquarium, marine inhabitants, shark whale, penguens, free with the Osaka-pass-ticket.
32. Osaka Castle
Osaka’s most famous spot, historic area, good for families with kids, japanese garden, Nishinomaru garden, not far from Maikoya.
33. Harajuku
harajuku, district in shibuya, center of japanese youth culture and fashion, shopping, boutiques, cafés, tokyo, unique fashion style, street fashion, many young people.
34. Kyoto Imperial Palace
the kyoto imperial palace, kyoto, world famous, fun,ruling palace, stunning, beautiful
35. Eiga Mura
Toei uzumasa eiga mura, great for kids,it used to be a movie set, Japanese streets, good photo spots, ancient japan, traditional shows, kyoto studio park, theme park, jidaigeki films, samurai, ninja.
36. Kifune Shrine
kibune, not very crowded, undiscovered yet, forested valley, kifune shrine, kyoto, greenery, japanese ryokan, relaxing, great spot
37. Genko-an Temple
beatiful japanese architecture, fall leaves, blood on the floor, samurai spirit, round windows, picture spot, buddhist temple.
38. Jigoku Dani, Hell Forest
jigoku dani, hell forest, monkey park, natural springs, hot springs, volcanoes, natural wonders, japan, japan travel, snow monkey park, snow monkey resorts, snow monkey tour
39. Ghibli Museum
ghibli museum, mitaka, tokyo, technology museum, mitaka station, magical place, ghibli museum in tokyo, musem in tokyo, amusement parks, art, museums and collections, museums
41. Sanjusan Gendo
Sanjusangendo, Japanese garden, green pond, Rengeo-in, 1001 statues of Kannon, Shrine, big hall
42. Zauo Fishing Restaurant
Zauo Fishing Restaurant , Catch a fish and eat, catching fish, good family activity, kids like it.
43. Hachiko Statue
Hachiko statue, the loyal dog Hachiko , strange statue, japan
44. Cat island
cat island, tashirojima, cats, anomalous islands, cultures and civilizations, fascinating fauna, islands, animals
45. Naoshima Art island
Naoshima Art island, Naoshima, island, island town, beautiful island, chichu art museum, modern art, art lovers, world class art, inland sea, main attractions, main attractions, ferry ride
46. Fox Island
Fox Island, Fox Village, foxes, wild animals, open area, walk around, petting zoo, feeding area
49. Sapporo Snow Festival
Sapporo Snow Festival, Snow Festival, festivals, light shows, ice sculptures, amazing sculptures, winter wonderland
50. Jigokudani Monkey Park
jigoku dani, hell forest, monkey park, natural springs, hot springs, volcanoes, natural wonders, japan, japan travel, snow monkey park, snow monkey resorts, snow monkey tour
51. Tokyo Skytree
Tokyo Sky Tree, tokyo skytree tower, observation tower, tower, broadcasting, restaurant, tallest structure in Japan, top level, clear view, crowded place, glass floor, metropolitan building, lower floor, highest point, viewing deck, must visit place
52. Abeno Harukas
tallest building, Abeno Harukas, Abenobashi Terminal Building, observation deck, marriott hotel, kintetsu department store, big shopping mall, view at night
53. Sakurajima
Sakurajima, active volcano, island, ashes, you may need to wear a mask, volcano in Japan, active volcano
54. Huis Ten Bosch
huis ten bosch, theme park, illumination at night, many flowers and tulips, sasebo, light show, amusement parks, ferris wheel, lots of fun, virtual reality, walk around, entrance gate, canal cruise
55. Aogashima Island
Volcanic Japanese Island, Japan’s most beautful island, Aogashima Island, Aogashima, Aogashima Volcano, Volcano, Anomalous Islands
56. Amano Hashidate
Amanohashidate, Japan’s most picturesque bay area, Miyazu Bay, Sandba, Heaven, Kyoto, Sky View, Amazing View, Drive, Trip, Adventure, Travel, Japanese Sightseeing
57. Kinosaki Onsen
Kinosaki Onsen, resort area, old traditional town, old hot springs area, Japanese hot springs, onsen bath houses, onsen town, public onsens, onsen experience, open air bath, bath house, japanese onsen
58. Beppu Onsen
hot springs, Beppu Onsen, resort area, Japanese hot springs, onsen bath houses, onsen town, public onsens, onsen experience, open air bath, bath house, japanese onsen
59. Gunkanjima Island
Gunkanjima Island, Japan, Anomalous Islands, Ghost Towns, Incredible Ruins, Boat Ride, Crumbling Buildings
60. Okinawa Diving
Okinawa Diving, Okinawa, Diving, dive master, amazing experience, fun dives, diving center, great dive
68. Visit a sushi-roll restaruant
It is good to go to a roll-sushi restaurant, a unique sushi experience, sushi on the conveyor belt.
69. Samurai Test Cutting Experience
samurai experience, tameshigiri, cutting a tatami, using real samurai sword, feeling like a real samurai, japan culture, cultural activities, samurai, japanese culture, fun, Osaka
70. Nebuta Matsuri
Nebuta Matsuri, Nebuta festival, Japan’s most famous festival, Aomori Nebuta Festival, Japanese summer festival, Aomori, festival, japan
71. Gion Matsuri
Gion Matsuri, Gion festival, Japan’s 2nd most famous festival, The Gion Festival, one of the most famous festivals in Japan, Kyoto, Kyoto’s Gion district, festival, japan
72. Awa Odori
Awa Odori, Awa festival, Japan’s 3rd most famous festival, the Awa Dance Festival, largest dance festival, festival, japan
74. Pachinko Experience
Pachinko Experience, game, fun, interesting game, mini casino experience in Japan, small casino , very common.
75. Shirakawago Old Houses
Shirakawago Old Houses, shirakawa-go, cultural, japanese culture, mountain villages, world heritage, old village, small village, observation point
76. Gold Ice Cream
Gold Ice Cream, Golden Ice Cream in Osaka, unforgettable experience, Maikoya, Osaka, Japan
77. Honenji
Honenji Temple, castle, shrine, japan, sightseeing, adventure, japanese tradition, temples, shrine, japanese history, historical castle
78. Toshogu
Hiroshima Toshogu Shrine, Japanese culture, Sightseeing, Hiroshima, Travelling Japan, Temples, Japanese shrine
79. Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium
Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, Japan’s biggest water tank, whale sharks, churaumi aquarium, dolphin show, huge tank, sea creatures, the main attraction, marine life, touch pool, big sharks, sea world
80. Owl Cafe Experience
Owl Cafe Experience, Owl Cafe, unique experience, fun, cafe, animal cafe, experience in Japan, travelling Japan
81. Adventure world Panda Zoo
Adventure world Panda Zoo, popular spot in Wakayama, great from families, Adventure World, wild animals, fun park, panda bears, zoo, rides, safari, japan, attraction
82. Mount Shosha
Mount Shosha, the last samurai, Hollywood movie spot, temple buildings, mountain top, ropeway station, himeji castle, walk up, rope way
83. Hakuritsu Sake Brewery
Hakuritsu Sake Brewery, Japanese Drink, Japanese Sake, Rice Wine, Fushimi district, Made in Japan, Japanese Traditional Drink
85. Owakudani Thermal Spring
Owakudani Thermal Spring, volcanic valley, hot springs, undiscovered, very famous hot spring,
86. Ise Jingu
Ise Jingu, Japan’s most famous shrine, consists of more than 50 small shrines, Ise Grand Shrine, Ise shrine, japanese culture, shinto religion, imperial family, pilgrimage site
87. Experience Karaoke
Experience Karaoke, good for young people, drinks, pizza, hot dog, sleeping, karaoke
88. Ramen Museum
Ramen Museum, Japanese food, Japanese noodle, good spot for families.
89. Oya History Museum
Oya History Museum, musems, japanese history, japanese culture, underground cavern