Things to See and Do When Visiting Japan
Find inspiration for your Japan vacation, from sightseeing in the city and cultural immersion in the countryside to top picks and suggested itineraries
Arrive in Japan with a game plan. Discover the many events and festivals, temples and castles, theme parks and hot springs, beaches and outdoor activities that Japan has to offer. Whether you’re passionate about sports, an art lover, a nature enthusiast, a history buff, a foodie, or just looking to relax on a beach, the possibilities for your Japan journey are endless.
A journey of
a thousand miles
begins with
a single step
Lao Tzu
Japan is a country rich in culture, history, and tradition. It offers a wide variety of experiences that cater to different interests and preferences. Here are some of the top things to do in Japan:
- Visit Tokyo: Tokyo is the capital city of Japan and is home to many famous attractions such as the Tokyo Tower, the Imperial Palace, and the Meiji Shrine. You can also experience Japanese pop culture by visiting neighborhoods like Harajuku and Shibuya.
- Explore Kyoto: Kyoto is known for its many temples and shrines, including the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine. The city also has a rich history and is a great place to experience traditional Japanese culture.
- Witness the Cherry Blossoms: Cherry blossom season, or hanami, is a popular time to visit Japan. The pink blossoms can be seen all over the country, but some of the best places to see them include Ueno Park in Tokyo and Maruyama Park in Kyoto.
- Visit a Hot Spring: Japan is home to many hot springs, or onsen, which are known for their therapeutic properties. Some popular onsen destinations include Hakone and Kusatsu.
- Try Japanese Cuisine: Japanese food is world-renowned, and there are many dishes to try, such as sushi, ramen, and tempura. You can also experience Japanese tea ceremonies and sake tastings.
- Attend a Festival: Japan has many festivals throughout the year, such as the Gion Matsuri in Kyoto and the Nebuta Matsuri in Aomori. These festivals are a great way to experience Japanese culture and traditions.
- Visit Hiroshima: Hiroshima is known for its tragic history as the site of the atomic bomb. Visitors can pay their respects at the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, and also enjoy the city’s many other attractions.
- Explore Nara: Nara is a historic city that was once the capital of Japan. It is known for its many temples and shrines, as well as its friendly deer that roam freely in the city’s parks.
- Climb Mount Fuji: Mount Fuji is the tallest mountain in Japan and is a popular destination for hikers and climbers. The climb takes about six to eight hours, and the views from the summit are breathtaking.
- Shop in Osaka: Osaka is known for its vibrant shopping and food scenes. The city has many shopping districts, such as Shinsaibashi and Namba, as well as famous street food destinations like Dotonbori.
These are just some of the top things to do in Japan. With so much to see and experience, there’s no shortage of adventures to be had in this fascinating country.
This is the best tour on the east coast! It was amazing how many places we visited and what great memories we made!
This was not our first time going to here. It is a great place to shop not too far from New York. We took the bus from Port Authority and traveled through the countryside to get there.
We always stay at here when in town. The location is great, staff is wonderful and we love the overall feel. Beautiful view from the here.