Top 20 Things to Do in Japan

Japan is a fascinating destination with a rich blend of traditional and modern attractions. From ancient temples to cutting-edge technology, here are the top 20 things you should do when visiting this amazing country.

1. Explore Tokyo's Shibuya Crossing Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo is one of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world. The sheer volume of people crossing from all directions creates a mesmerizing scene. Nearby, you can visit the Hachiko Statue, a tribute to the loyal dog Hachiko, or explore Shibuya’s vibrant shopping and entertainment districts.

2. Visit Kyoto's Fushimi Inari Shrine Known for its thousands of red torii gates, Fushimi Inari Shrine is an iconic symbol of Kyoto. The gates create a stunning pathway up the mountain, offering picturesque views and a spiritual experience. The shrine is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto deity of rice and agriculture.

3. Experience the Cherry Blossoms in Ueno Park Ueno Park in Tokyo is one of the best places to view cherry blossoms during sakura season. The park is filled with over a thousand cherry trees, creating a breathtaking pink canopy. It’s also home to several museums, including the Tokyo National Museum.

4. Relax in an Onsen in Hakone Hakone, located near Mount Fuji, is famous for its natural hot springs. Enjoy a traditional Japanese onsen experience while taking in views of the surrounding mountains. Many ryokans (traditional inns) in the area offer private onsen baths for a more intimate experience.

5. Wander Through the Historic Streets of Gion in Kyoto Gion is Kyoto’s traditional geisha district, known for its well-preserved wooden machiya houses and teahouses. Stroll through the charming streets and you might catch a glimpse of a geisha or maiko (apprentice geisha) on their way to an appointment.

6. Discover the Peaceful Zen Gardens at Ryoan-ji Ryoan-ji, also in Kyoto, is renowned for its minimalist rock garden. The garden’s design encourages contemplation and meditation, featuring a simple yet profound arrangement of rocks and gravel. It’s a serene spot perfect for reflection.

7. Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park commemorates the victims of the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima in 1945. The park includes the Atomic Bomb Dome, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and several monuments dedicated to promoting world peace.

8. Explore the Snow-Covered Streets of Sapporo Sapporo, located in Hokkaido, is known for its winter sports and the annual Sapporo Snow Festival. The festival features impressive snow and ice sculptures, and the city is a gateway to some of Japan’s best ski resorts.

9. Take a Ride on the Shinkansen Japan's bullet trains, or Shinkansen, are an engineering marvel and a must-experience for any visitor. They offer an efficient and comfortable way to travel long distances, with speeds reaching up to 320 km/h (199 mph).

10. Marvel at the Historic Nijo Castle in Kyoto Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is known for its beautiful gardens and ornate interiors. The castle was built in 1603 as the residence of the Shogun and is famous for its “nightingale floors” which chirp when walked upon, serving as a security measure.

11. Visit the Himeji Castle Himeji Castle, also known as the White Heron Castle due to its white exterior, is one of Japan’s most spectacular and well-preserved castles. It offers a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past and provides stunning views of the surrounding city and landscape.

12. Experience the Vibrant Nightlife in Osaka's Dotonbori Dotonbori is a bustling district in Osaka known for its neon lights, street food, and entertainment. Try local delicacies like takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancake) while enjoying the lively atmosphere of this area.

13. Explore the Traditional Village of Shirakawa-go Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses with steep thatched roofs. The village offers a glimpse into rural Japanese life and is particularly picturesque during the winter months when covered in snow.

14. Visit the Tokyo Skytree for Panoramic Views The Tokyo Skytree is one of the tallest structures in the world and offers panoramic views of Tokyo from its observation decks. On a clear day, you can see as far as Mount Fuji.

15. Relax in the Tranquil Gardens of Kenroku-en Kenroku-en in Kanazawa is one of Japan’s most beautiful landscape gardens. Its design incorporates six attributes of a perfect garden: spaciousness, serenity, artificiality, antiquity, water features, and panoramas.

16. Explore the Unique Art Installations at Naoshima Island Naoshima Island is known for its contemporary art museums and outdoor installations. The Benesse Art Site features works by renowned artists like Yayoi Kusama and Tadao Ando, blending art seamlessly with the island’s natural beauty.

17. Visit the Historic Kamakura Great Buddha The Great Buddha of Kamakura is a massive bronze statue located in the town of Kamakura. This iconic figure stands at approximately 13.35 meters (43.8 feet) tall and has been a symbol of Japanese Buddhism for centuries.

18. Discover the Vibrant Culture of Akihabara in Tokyo Akihabara is Tokyo’s electronics and otaku culture district. It's a paradise for tech enthusiasts and anime fans, with numerous shops selling the latest gadgets, video games, and anime merchandise.

19. Enjoy the Peaceful Atmosphere of Meiji Shrine Meiji Shrine, located in Shibuya, Tokyo, is dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. The shrine is set within a lush forested area, providing a serene escape from the bustling city. The path leading to the shrine is particularly tranquil.

20. Explore the Ancient Temples of Nara Nara, Japan’s first capital, is home to some of the country’s oldest and most significant temples, including Todai-ji, which houses the Great Buddha (Daibutsu). Nara Park is also known for its friendly deer that roam freely and interact with visitors.

Travel Tips for Japan:

• Language: While English is widely understood in major cities and tourist areas, learning a few basic Japanese phrases can enhance your experience.
• Currency: Japan uses the Yen (JPY). Credit cards are accepted in many places, but it's wise to carry some cash for smaller establishments.
• Etiquette: Be mindful of Japanese customs and etiquette, such as removing your shoes before entering homes or certain traditional establishments.

Japan offers a diverse range of experiences, blending ancient traditions with modern innovations. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or technology, Japan has something unique to offer every traveler.