As one of the most sought after tourist spots in the world, Japan is a paradise for travelers with a passion for all things new and exciting. Pristine lakes, ancient temples and shrines, and beautiful parks are just some of the attractions awaiting you when you visit the Land of the Rising Sun. There are countless things to do, even during a short trip, resulting in an unforgettable experience. Let’s take a look at the must-dos when travelling to Japan.
1. Explore Ancient Temples and Shrines
Nestled in the heart of Tokyo and other cities are several world-famous temples and shrines. The Meiji Shrine, for example, is one of the most renowned in the region. It was founded in 1920 as a spiritual home during the Meiji Restoration, and is now listed as a Special Historic Site of Japan. Other popular shrines include the Fushimi Inari Shrine, with its iconic ‘Fushimi Inari foxes’, and the Kiyomizu-dera, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take some time for sightseeing and explore the spiritual power of these much revered locations.
2. View Nature from the Top
If you visit Japan in spring, the view from atop Mount Fuji will be one of the most unforgettable experiences of your journey. Every April, the peak of the mountain is covered in snow and cherry blossom trees, resulting in a magnificent landscape of pink and white. If you aren’t able to make it during this brief window of opportunity, you can still enjoy nature’s beauty from the top of Tokyo Skytree, one of Japan’s most famous towers. The views of Tokyo from the top will take your breath away, and the experience is even better at night.
3. Get a Taste of Traditional Japanese Cuisine
Japanese cuisine is beloved all around the world, and sampling some while in Japan is an absolute must. Apart from the popular sushi and sashimi, there are specialties like ramen, udon, and soba that you should try. And if you want to experience a more authentic Japanese dining experience, consider visiting a ‘yakitori’ restaurant, where you can feast on delicious skewered meat and crunchy vegetables. For those with a sweet tooth, you’ll be pleased to know that Japan has a wide selection of treats including green tea ice cream, mochi, and more.
4. Visit a Traditional Onsen
Onsen, or hot springs, have been used for centuries in Japanese culture. Taking a dip in a traditional onsen will not only relax and restore your energy, but also provide a unique cultural experience. Since Japan is blessed with multiple active volcanoes, the country is very rich in onsens, with some possessing special healing powers. Onsen-hopping is a popular activity for tourists, so why not take advantage of it while you’re there?
5. Shop in Harajuku
If you’re looking for a unique shopping experience, Harajuku is a must-visit. The colourful streets of this Tokyo neighbourhood are home to a bustling array of vintage clothing boutiques and quirky independent stores. Whether you’re hunting for used designer items, rare records, or gothic Lolita fashion, you’ll find something special hidden amidst the glitzy boutiques and busy market stalls. And when you’re done browsing all the interesting items, the fashionable cafés in the area provide a pleasant spot to take a break.
6. Experience Sumo Wrestling
Sumo wrestling is an ancient sport that’s been in practice since the 17th century. Tourists have the chance to experience this iconic event when Japan’s professional sumo tournaments are held three times a year – in January, May and September. While watching sumo outside of tournaments can be quite expensive, tournament tickets are available for sessions without the top wrestlers, giving visitors a delightful view of one of Japan’s oldest sports.
7. Attend a Traditional Japanese Festival
Japan is a land of exciting traditional events, and attending one of these while visiting is highly recommended. Events like the Setsubun Festival, where beans are thrown to ward off bad luck, or the traditional Gion Festival in Kyoto, which is attended by people clad in beautiful kimonos, are a great way to learn about Japanese culture. You’ll be able to enjoy delicious treats and unique activities, so take advantage of the opportunity to be completely immersed in Japan’s vibrant culture.
8. Explore Japanese Art
The National Museum of Tokyo is an absolute must-visit when in Japan. It houses an impressive collection of artefacts from Japan’s vibrant history, such as Ukiyo-e woodblock prints, ancient pottery and more. Even if you only visit one museum, this one should be it. Be sure to check out other smaller art galleries too; they often carry incredible artwork by some of Japan’s leading contemporary artists.
9. Admire Sakura in All Its Glory
One of the most beautiful sights in Japan is Hanami, the cherry blossom bloom. It’s a tradition that’s been celebrated for hundreds of years, and every spring, Japan’s population looks forward to this event. You can join in the celebrations by visiting one of the many parks and riverside promenades scattered around Japan’s major cities and enjoy the breathtaking view of the pink petals. Japan’s other natural attractions, like the urban parks, serene lakes, and awesome mountains, are also worth visiting.
10. Visit a Cat Café and Other Unique Locations
As one of the most quirky countries in the world, Japan has its share of unique attractions. If you’re a cat lover, head to one of Japan’s Cat Cafés and enjoy the company of furry friends. Then there are the numerous escape room games, which offer a thrilling experience, as well as places where you can dress up as a Samurai or Ninja. Japan also has themed restaurants for all kinds of tastes, from steampunk to Alice in Wonderland. Wherever you go, make sure you have a camera ready to capture all the fun.
