Things To Do
in Japan
Japan is a country of ancient traditions and neon-lit modernity, where ancient temples stand beside cutting-edge technology. From tranquil gardens and bamboo groves to bustling street markets and towering skyscrapers, it blends calm precision with vibrant energy. The landscape ranges from snowy mountains in Hokkaido to tropical beaches in Okinawa, inviting exploration in every season.
Food, etiquette, and craftsmanship are integral to daily life, offering visitors a deeply immersive cultural experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Tsukiji Outer Market, where you can sample fresh sushi and local delicacies. Afterward, take a stroll through the serene Hamarikyu Gardens, immersing yourself in the beauty of traditional Japanese landscape design. As you wander, enjoy the views of the Tokyo skyline contrasting against the lush greenery.
Visit the historic Asakusa district and explore the Senso-ji Temple, one of Tokyo's oldest and most colorful temples. Enjoy some shopping at Nakamise Street, where you can find souvenir treats and handcrafted goods. Take a break at a nearby café and sip on matcha or a unique Japanese dessert.
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Shibuya as you witness the famous Shibuya Crossing come alive with bright lights and bustling crowds. Grab dinner at an izakaya, where you can sample various small plates and drinks in a lively atmosphere. Afterward, visit one of the karaoke bars to sing your heart out and immerse yourself in local entertainment culture.
Begin your Kyoto adventure with a visit to the stunning Kinkaku-ji, or the Golden Pavilion, set against a picturesque lake. The morning light glistens off the temple's gold leaf exterior, making it a truly breathtaking sight. Afterward, take a peaceful walk through the surrounding gardens, filled with ancient trees and tranquil ponds.
Head to the Arashiyama District to explore the enchanting Bamboo Grove, where towering bamboo stalks create a serene atmosphere. Next, visit the nearby Iwatayama Monkey Park, where you can see wild macaques in their natural habitat. Relax in a charming café overlooking the river and sample some traditional matcha sweets.
Explore the Gion district in the evening, renowned for its traditional wooden machiya houses and geisha culture. Enjoy a kaiseki dinner, a multi-course Japanese meal that emphasizes seasonal ingredients and artistic presentation. As night falls, stroll through the lantern-lit streets, soaking in the ambiance of this magical historical district.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥢Meal at mid-range restaurant | $15-40 |
| 🚇One-way public transit ticket | $2-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $120-250 |
| 🎟️Museum or attraction entry | $5-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and culture in every region
- World-class cuisine and efficient transport
- Safe, clean and welcoming for travelers
- Efficient and reliable public transit
- Beautiful natural landscapes from mountains to coastlines
- Can be expensive in major cities
- Crowds and language barriers in popular sites
- Air travel and domestic travel require planning for peak seasons
- Some places rely on cash; card acceptance can vary in rural areas
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
- "すみません" - Excuse me / I’m sorry
- "はい／いいえ" - Yes / No
- "お願いします" - Please / I would like
- "いくらですか" - How much is this?
- "英語を話せますか" - Do you speak English?
- "水をください" - Water, please
- "トイレはどこですか" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Japan
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic scramble intersection framed by neon billboards and surrounding architecture.
A tranquil forested path leading to the Shinto shrine, with nearby street fashion and cafes.
Thousands of vermilion torii gates winding up the mountain for dramatic long-shot photography.
Sunlight filtering through tall bamboo stalks along a scenic canal path.
Classic viewpoint with seasonal reflections, ideal for sunrise or sunset shots.
Elegant white castle with expansive grounds—perfect for architectural photography.
sweeping city views with water reflections and modern architecture.
Food in Japan
Japan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh fish over seasoned rice, best enjoyed at a sushi bar or omakase restaurant.
Must-Try!
Regional varieties such as shoyu, miso, and tonkotsu; seek a reputable ramen shop for a satisfying bowl.
Savory pancake with cabbage and various toppings; iconic in Osaka and Hiroshima.
Lightly fried seafood and vegetables served with tentsuyu sauce and grated daikon.
A refined multi-course meal highlighting seasonal ingredients and presentation.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Modern seafood market with early-morning auctions and fresh sushi options.
Bustling market street in Ueno offering seafood, street bites, and bargain goods.
Kyoto's famous food market known for pickles, sweets, and fresh ingredients.
Vibrant Osaka district famous for takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and bright signage.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
People line up orderly for trains, buses, and elevators; avoid pushing.
Remove shoes when entering homes, temples, and traditional accommodations; slippers are provided.
Eating while walking is discouraged in many areas; enjoy meals seated and quietly in public spaces.
Offer and receive items with both hands; be modest and polite.
Speak softly on public transport and keep noise to a minimum; use proper etiquette when visiting temples and shrines.
Wash before soaking, keep towels out of the water, and avoid tattoos in some baths.
Safety
Tipping in Japan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary and can be interpreted as rude in many places; simply pay the bill. In high-end establishments, a service charge may be included.
Cash is widely accepted, especially in smaller shops. Credit cards are common in cities; rural areas may be cash-only. IC cards like Suica or Pasmo work for transit and many stores; mobile payments are increasingly accepted.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cherry blossoms light up parks and temple precincts; mornings are cooler and crowds surge on weekends.
Hot and humid across much of Japan; anticipate crowds at festivals and fireworks displays; stay hydrated.
Mild weather with vibrant autumn foliage; ideal for outdoor exploring and photography.
Cool to cold with occasional snow in northern regions; winter illuminations and hot springs offer cozy experiences.
Japan at Night
Hiking in Japan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible day hike with forest scenery and distant city views; suitable for a wide range of hikers.
Ancient pilgrimage routes through forests and coastal landscapes with guesthouses along the way.
Historic hiking path linking post towns in the Kiso Valley, ideal for traditional scenery and photography.
Airports
How to reach Japan by plane.
Primary international gateway for Tokyo with extensive domestic connections; access into the city via train or airport limousine bus.
Closer to central Tokyo; excellent domestic and international connectivity with swift train access to the city.
Osaka area gateway on an artificial island; convenient for Kansai region exploring Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe.
Nagoya gateway serving central Japan; connects to JR and highway networks for easy access to the Chubu region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents of major cities, often tech-savvy and well-traveled within Japan.
Smaller towns with strong local traditions and slower pace of life.
Expats and long-term visitors from around the world contributing to diverse communities.
Active in fashion, pop culture, and education; frequent use of public transport and social media.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Japan has a strong professional league; many fans attend games with fervent support.
Traditional sport with tournaments held several times a year; culturally significant and iconic.
Growing popularity; national team and club leagues attract large crowds.
Winter sports in Hokkaido and the Japan Alps attract enthusiasts from around the world.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Traditional stock (dashi) often contains fish. Look for vegetarian-friendly eateries or request dashi alternatives; in big cities you’ll find vegan/vegetarian options and dedicated restaurants.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Japan.