Japan is a mesmerizing blend of ancient traditions and futuristic vibes, offering travelers experiences that linger long after the trip ends. From neon-lit cities to tranquil temples, every corner of this country tells a story. I’ve crafted this list of the top 10 things to do in Japan based on my own adventures and conversations with fellow explorers. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, these activities will make your journey unforgettable. Let’s dive into the heart of Japan!
1. Wander Through Tokyo’s Electric Streets
Tokyo is a whirlwind of energy that hits you from every angle. Picture yourself at Shibuya Crossing, surrounded by a sea of people moving in perfect chaos under flashing billboards. Head to Akihabara for anime shops and retro arcades, or Shinjuku for cozy izakayas serving yakitori and sake. For a breather, the Meiji Shrine offers a serene escape with its towering torii gate and lush forest. Spend a day here, and you’ll feel Tokyo’s pulse—vibrant, relentless, and utterly addictive. Don’t forget to snap a photo at the iconic Hachiko statue!
2. Step Back in Time in Kyoto
Kyoto is Japan’s cultural soul, where history whispers in every alley. The golden Kinkaku-ji Temple sparkles against its pond, while Fushimi Inari’s endless red torii gates create a surreal path up the mountain. The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is like walking through a living painting, with sunlight filtering through towering stalks. If you’re in Gion at dusk, keep an eye out for geishas gliding to tea houses—it’s a rare glimpse into a fading world. Kyoto’s charm lies in its balance of grandeur and quiet moments, making it a must for any Japan itinerary.
3. Savor Sushi at Tsukiji Market
For food lovers, Tokyo’s fish markets (now at Toyosu, but Tsukiji’s spirit lives on) are a pilgrimage. Imagine sitting at a sushi counter, watching a chef slice pristine fish with precision. From melt-in-your-mouth toro to briny uni, every bite is a revelation. Arrive early—think 6 AM—for the freshest picks and shorter lines. Pair your meal with miso soup and green tea for the full experience. If raw fish isn’t your thing, try tamagoyaki (sweet egg omelet). This is Japan’s culinary artistry at its peak.
4. Soak in an Onsen in Hakone
Hakone’s hot springs are pure bliss, especially with Mount Fuji peeking through the mist. An onsen soak is more than a bath—it’s a ritual. Picture yourself in steaming mineral water, surrounded by cedar trees or snowy peaks in winter. Yunessun Spa offers quirky options like wine or green tea baths, but a traditional ryokan onsen feels more authentic. Follow the etiquette (shower first, no swimsuits), and let the stress melt away. It’s a quintessential Japanese moment you’ll crave again.
5. Explore Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial
Hiroshima carries its past with grace and resilience. The Peace Memorial Park, with its haunting Atomic Bomb Dome, is a powerful reminder of peace’s fragility. The museum pulls no punches, sharing stories of survivors with raw honesty. Yet, Hiroshima thrives with hope—locals are warm, and the city hums with life. Nearby, Miyajima Island’s floating torii gate at Itsukushima Shrine is a UNESCO marvel. Visit at high tide for that ethereal effect. This is a place that teaches you to reflect and appreciate.
6. Get Lost in Osaka’s Food Scene
Osaka is Japan’s food capital, and I’m still dreaming about it. Dotonbori’s canal is lined with neon signs and stalls dishing out takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes). Grab a stick of kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) and a cold Asahi to complete the vibe. Beyond street food, Osaka Castle offers a dose of history, and the Umeda Sky Building’s rooftop views are unreal at sunset. This city’s unpretentious energy and culinary swagger make it impossible not to love.
7. Chase Cherry Blossoms in Spring
Spring in Japan means hanami, the art of cherry blossom viewing, and it’s pure magic. Ueno Park in Tokyo turns into a pink wonderland, with locals picnicking under sakura trees. In Kyoto, Maruyama Park’s massive weeping cherry tree is a showstopper. Join the festivities with bento boxes and sake, but don’t linger too long—the blossoms are fleeting, lasting just a week or two. Even if you miss peak bloom, the atmosphere of hope and renewal is infectious.
8. Hike or Ski in Hokkaido
Hokkaido is Japan’s wild frontier, perfect for adventure seekers. In winter, Niseko’s powdery slopes draw skiers from around the globe, while summer brings hikers to Daisetsuzan National Park’s rugged trails. Furano’s lavender fields are a purple dream in July, and don’t skip Otaru’s charming canal and glass workshops. The seafood here—think king crab and scallops—is as fresh as it gets. Hokkaido’s vast landscapes and laid-back vibe feel like a different Japan, one that begs you to slow down.
9. Experience a Traditional Ryokan
Staying in a ryokan is like stepping into Japan’s past. These traditional inns, often found in places like Takayama or Kinosaki, offer tatami-mat rooms, sliding shoji screens, and multi-course kaiseki dinners that are as beautiful as they are delicious. After dinner, slip into a yukata and soak in the onsen. The hospitality is impeccable—every detail, from folded linens to seasonal dishes, feels personal. It’s pricier than a hotel, but the experience is worth every yen for a night or two.
10. Marvel at Nara’s Giant Buddha
Nara, Japan’s first capital, is home to Todai-ji Temple and its colossal bronze Buddha, a sight that stops you in your tracks. The Great Buddha Hall is one of the world’s largest wooden structures, and the statue’s serene gaze is humbling. Outside, Nara Park’s free-roaming deer are a delight—they’ll bow for shika senbei crackers. Just a short train ride from Kyoto or Osaka, Nara’s compact size makes it perfect for a day trip. It’s history, charm, and a touch of whimsy rolled into one.
Final Thoughts
Japan is a country that captures your soul, blending the frenetic and the tranquil in a way that feels like nowhere else. This list is just the start—each city, each moment, has its own story to tell. I’ve poured my passion for travel into these recommendations, but the real magic happens when you’re there, tasting, seeing, and feeling it all. Got a hidden gem or a must-try dish? Share it in the comments—I’m already dreaming of my next Japan adventure!