things to do in japan

Japan is a country with a rich culture, history, and natural beauty, offering countless things to see and do. Here are some popular activities and attractions to consider:

Nature and Outdoors

1. Visit the cherry blossom trees (sakura) in spring
2. Explore the Japanese Alps (Nikko, Hakone, and the Japanese Alps)
3. Relax in an onsen (hot spring) or public bath
4. Hike the famous Nakasendo trail
5. Visit the beautiful gardens of Kyoto (Kinkaku-ji, Arashiyama, and Kiyomizu-dera)
6. Take a scenic boat ride on Lake Biwa or Lake Ashi
7. Visit the stunning waterfalls of Kusatsu Onsen

Culture and History

1. Visit the Tokyo Imperial Palace
2. Explore the Meiji Shrine in Tokyo
3. Visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto (thousand torii gates)
4. Learn about Japanese history at the Tokyo National Museum or the Kyoto National Museum
5. Attend a traditional tea ceremony
6. Visit the Gion district in Kyoto (geisha district)
7. Explore the ancient city of Nara (Todai-ji Temple and Kasuga-taisha Shrine)

Food and Drink

1. Try sushi at the Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo
2. Sample local specialties like ramen, udon, and tempura
3. Visit a traditional izakaya (Japanese gastropub)
4. Try matcha (green tea) at a traditional tea house
5. Sample Japanese sweets and desserts
6. Visit a sake brewery or winery
7. Take a cooking class to learn about Japanese cuisine

Cities and Entertainment

1. Explore the neon-lit streets of Tokyo’s Shinjuku district
2. Visit the famous Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo
3. Take a stroll through the beautiful gardens of Kyoto’s Arashiyama
4. Visit the Ghibli Museum in Mitaka, Tokyo (dedicated to Studio Ghibli’s animated films)
5. Attend a traditional Japanese festival (e.g. Cherry Blossom Festival or Golden Week)
6. Visit the Tokyo Tower or Mori Tower in Roppongi Hills
7. Explore the trendy Harajuku district in Tokyo

Seasonal Activities

1. Visit the snow monkeys in the Japanese Alps (winter)
2. Attend the Cherry Blossom Festival (spring)
3. Visit the autumn foliage (koyo) in Kyoto and Tokyo
4. Take a hot air balloon ride over the Japanese countryside (autumn)
5. Visit the New Year (Oshogatsu) festivities in January
6. Attend the Golden Week (late April to early May) festivities
7. Visit the summer festivals (e.g. Obon Festival or Star Festival)

Other Activities

1. Visit a traditional Japanese ryokan (inn) for a relaxing stay
2. Take a scenic train ride on the Hakone Tozan Railway
3. Visit the Tokyo Skytree for panoramic views of the city
4. Attend a sumo wrestling tournament
5. Visit the Ginkaku-ji Temple (Silver Pavilion) in Kyoto
6. Take a scenic boat ride on the Sumida River in Tokyo
7. Visit the beautiful gardens of the Imperial Palace in Tokyo

These are just a few examples of the many things to see and do in Japan. With its rich culture, history, and natural beauty, Japan has something to offer for every interest and season.