Japan, the Land of the Rising Sun, is a place like no other. With a fascinating history, gorgeous cherry blossoms, delicious food, and cutting-edge technology—Japan offers a wide range of fun activities. So, before you pack your bags, read about the best things to do in Japan!
The 10 Best Things To Do In Japan
Stay At A Ryokan
Ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn. It has communal baths, tatami-matted rooms, and other public areas. It’s a unique type of stay where creating a peaceful environment is more important than offering modern amenities.
A ryokan guest room usually features sitting cushions, sliding paper doors, wooden tables, and sleeping quilts. For those looking for an authentic Japanese experience, staying at a Ryokan is a must. You can find them around Tokyo, Kyoto, or resort towns.
Find Places To Stay In Tokyo | Find Places To Stay In Kyoto
Take An Onsen Bath
The waters of the onsen play an important role in Japanese culture. According to Shintoism, an ancient religion of Japan, the hot springs have the power to purify the body and mind. Therefore, onsens were used as a part of Shinto purifying rituals.
Japan has over 3,000 onsens that you can choose from. However, the most popular place to go to is Beppu in Oita (the capital of Oita Prefecture). There are eight onsen villages collectively known as the Beppu Hatto: Beppu Onsen, Hamawaki Onsen, Horita Onsen, Kannawa Onsen, Kamegawa Onsen, Myoban Onsen, Kankaiji Onsen, and Shibaseki Onsen.
Before you enter the bath, you should be aware of a couple of rules. Clothes and bathing suits are not allowed. They can bring soap into the water, so take towels instead. You should also wash before entering the onsen and if you have long hair, tie it up to keep it out of water.
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Admire The Stunning Itsukushima Shrine
Itsukushima Shrine is one of the most famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Japan. It’s located in Hatsukaichi (Hiroshima Prefecture) and is known for its stunning “floating” gate. The shrine complex consists of a prayer hall, the main hall, and a stage for a noh theater. During low tide, visitors can take a walk to get a closer look at the gate.
Entry Fee: adults ¥300, highschool students ¥200, junior high and elementary school students ¥100
Location: 1-1 Miyajimacho, Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima 739-0588, Japan
Visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
Genbaku Dome or the Hiroshima Peace Memorial was the only standing structure left after the atomic bomb exploded in 1945, during World War II. Formerly, it was used as an exhibition place for local products.
In memory of the victims of the nuclear strike, the park has been created around the Genbaku Dome in the center of Hiroshima. The entrance is free of charge. To view the documents of this historic event, visit the nearby Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum.
Entry Fee (Museum): adults ¥200, high school students ¥100, junior high school students
and younger children can enter for free, visitors 65+ can enter for ¥100
Location: １丁目-1-10 Nakajimacho, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0811, Japan
Find Places To Stay In Hiroshima
Taste Japanese Food
One thing’s for sure – Japanese cuisine is absolutely incredible. You’ll witness a seemingly neverending list of delicious food creations – eat sushi, yakitori, tempura, ramen, donburi, and more! If you’re into street food, we suggest you taste the mouthwatering shu cream, chewy dango balls, or pancake-like imagawayaki.
From restaurants serving famous wagyu beef to those plating a perfectly grilled salmon, Japan has everything foodies are looking for. There are a ton of wonderful places to eat throughout Japan!
Read More: A Guide To The Best Dining Areas In Japan
See Mount Fuji In All Its Glory
To get the best views of Mount Fuji, visit Japan between December and January. The mountain is often obstructed by clouds, but you should catch a glimpse in the early morning hours. Here are some of the best spots to see Mount Fuji: Fuji Five Lakes, Route 134, Mt. Fuji Panorama Ropeway, Izunokuni Panorama Park, Koyo-Dai, and Chureito Pagoda.
Where to stay near Mount Fuji?
Kawaguchiko Park Hotel: Top quality service, spacious rooms, and a fireplace in Minamitsuru district. Only 900 m from the Mt. Fuji Panorama Ropeway.
Fuji Premium Resort: Another cozy place in the Minamitsuru district, well-connected to the Kawaguchiko Eki and Fujikyu Highland Eki. It boasts a private beach, scenic views, and free parking.
Kawaguchiko Onsen Yamagishi Ryokan: Conveniently located near Lake Kawaguchi and Mt. Fuji Panorama Ropeway. Offers hot spring baths, massages, and beautiful lake views.
K’s House Fuji View – Hostel: A comfortable stay located 4 min away from Hoto Fudou and 5 min from Kawaguchiko Shopping Center BELL. Guest rooms have wifi, a balcony, a kitchen, and air conditioning.
Ride A Bullet Train
Japan’s Shinkansen or Bullet Train is the fastest way to explore the country. If you plan to travel between Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka – this is the most convenient way of getting around. Moreover, the ride offers magnificent views of the cityscapes, flower fields, and small towns. For more information on the Japan Rail Pass visit their frequently updated website.
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Visit The Breathtaking Kinkaku-Ji Zen Temple
Kinkaku-Ji (Golden Pavilion) is a popular Buddhist temple in Kyoto. The impressive structure has two floors covered in gold leaf and features different styles of architecture – the Shinden and Bukke styles. It’s important to note that visitors are not allowed to enter the temple. You can roam around the gardens and enjoy the view of the temple from the outside. There’s also a small souvenir shop and a charming tea garden nearby.
Entry Fee (Garden Area): adults ¥400, children ¥300
Location: 1 Kinkakujicho, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8361, Japan
Explore The White Heron Castle
Situated in Himeji (Hyōgo Prefecture), The White Heron Castle, or Himeji Castle is famous for its breathtaking appearance. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the best example of Medieval castle architecture in Japan. With multiple buildings, gates, and paths the castle that we see today was finished in 1609. It’s highly recommended to visit Himeji during the wonderful cherry blossom season (early April).
Location: 68 Honmachi, Himeji, Hyogo 670-0012, Japan
Entry Fee: castle ¥1000, castle + Kokoen garden ¥1050
Roam Around Hakone Open-Air Museum
Japan’s first open-air museum was Hakone. It’s been open since 1969 in the vibrant Ashigarashimo District. It boasts a variety of sections and exhibitions like the Picasso Exhibition Hall, Symphonic Sculpture, and Zig Zag World. The perfect place to enjoy more than 100 pieces of art while taking in the beauty of the surrounding mountains!
Location: 1121 Ninotaira, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0407, Japan
Entry Fee: adults ¥1600, university and high school students ¥1200, middle and elementary school students ¥800
FAQ
What is the number one tourist attraction in Japan?
The number one tourist attraction in Japan is Mount Fuji.
What are the best things to do in Japan?
The best things to do in Japan:
Stay At A Ryokan
Bathe At Onsen Hot Springs
Admire The Stunning Itsukushima Shrine
Visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
Taste Japanese Food
See Mount Fuji In All Its Glory
Ride A Bullet Train
Visit The Breathtaking Kinkaku-Ji Zen Temple
Explore The White Heron Castle
Roam Around Hakone Open-Air Museum
Can you do Japan in 10 days?
Ten days in Japan will give you enough time to explore the main attractions.
What is the best month to go to Japan?
The best month to go to Japan is April.
What are the most famous Japanese gardens?
Kenroku-en in Kanazawa, Kōraku-en in Okayama and Kairaku-en in Mito.
Does Japan have a robot restaurant?
Some Japanese cafes and restaurants like Dawn Avatar Robot Café and Saizeriya Restaurant feature robot waiters.
What is Japan’s #1 green tea?
Sencha.
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