Best Things To Do in Japan
Top 10 Things to Do in Japan, From Our Experts
Our destination experts, Andy and Akshay, have explored Japan extensively, uncovering the most exclusive activities and adventures to suit every traveler’s tastes. From immersive cultural experiences to charming river cruises and onsen bath rituals, Andy and Akshay discuss their best things to do in Japan, with some personal insights to help you craft your perfect itinerary with us.
-
01
Take a river cruise to Senso-ji Temple
Andy: One of my favorite adventures in Japan is taking a river cruise to Asakusa to visit Senso-ji Temple, and soak in the old-world charm of this heritage town. The Senso-ji Temple in Tokyo is the oldest in the city, and certainly the most famous Buddhist temple complex, making it one of Japan’s ancient Zen legends.
The temple’s bright crimson buildings are beautiful examples of Japanese religious architecture. It is also home to Tokyo’s biggest souvenir market that you must visit for its myriad collection of items to bring home! -
02
Sample the unique culture of Japan
Akshay: To really experience the best of Japan you need to encounter the local culture. I can arrange for you to learn the art of crafting a Japanese Bento box (and the various elements of Kyoto cuisine) at a traditional Machiya house, or uncovering the beautiful art of Japanese calligraphy at a Master’s House is another immersive experience.
You could also opt for a private dinner with a geisha or maiko – Japanese entertainers who are well-versed in the traditional arts. Any, or all of these experiences will allow you to truly immerse yourself in the authentic culture of Japan. -
03
Pay homage to the Buddha in Kamakura
Andy: For outdoor enthusiasts, I recommend an enchanting walk through the verdant bamboo forest of Kamakura to reach the Great Buddha (or Daibutsu). Built completely of bronze, it dates back to 1252 and has featured in many of Rudyard Kipling’s verses.
Walking through the bamboo forest of Kamakura with its remarkable fresh air and tranquility is one of my favorite things to do in Japan and a great way to connect with nature.
Like Japanese culture, Japanese cuisine is unique and elaborate. Apart from the popular ramen, yakitori and sushi, I highly recommend sampling a Kaiseki meal while you stay in a traditional ryokan inn. Kaiseki is the 9-course formal haute cuisine of Japan prepared by a master, with specific ingredients, techniques and even setting where it should be served!
-
04
Relax in your private Japanese onsen
Akshay: Who doesn’t love a good, rejuvenating natural therapy at the end of a trip? Soaking in a personal outdoor bathtub filled with hot water from a natural spring is magical; especially after a long day spent on a city tour! In Hakone, you can even take in panoramic views of the iconic volcano, Mount Fuji, from your private onsen. It’s simply my best thing to do when visiting Japan!
-
05
Discover the treasures of Kanazawa
Andy: Ranked as one of Japan’s top three most beautiful gardens, Kanazawa features many fountains, waterfalls, and bridges, as well as stone layouts, meandering paths, and forests of cherry trees and Karasaki pine. There are teahouses too, and the famous centerpiece – a two-legged stone lantern. If gardens are your thing, this is one of the best in Japan.
Synonymous with gold leaf work and famous for its gold leaf artifacts, Kanazawa also offers you the chance to try your hand at decorating a plate, or a pair of chopsticks, with wafer-thin, sparkling leaves of gold! Plus, don’t miss the secrets of the Shogun in the Samurai district. -
06
Savor a Japanese tea ceremony in Kyoto
Akshay: Taking part in a private tea ceremony in a Kyoto temple is one of the top things to do in Japan. You will experience a moment of perfect peace and quiet, in beautiful surroundings that are generally closed to the public. Accompanied by a local expert, learn the fascinating art of brewing tea in traditional Japanese style, which you can then try to replicate back home!
This is an exclusive activity that shows you the varied aspects of a Japanese tea ceremony, including brewing and serving wares and the cultural significance behind each movement.
Japan’s Hidden Treasures
Immerse yourself in Japan’s authentic culture as you explore classics and hidden gems on this tailor-made tour – from megacities like Tokyo to the samurai heritage of Kanazawa and the UNESCO-listed village of Shirakawa-go.
Cherisse Liptzin · Travel Consultant
View Trip Details-
07
Explore the Fushimi Inari-Taisha shrine in Kyoto
Andy: One of my personal Japan highlights is visiting the Fushimi Inari-Taisha Shrine in Kyoto. At the base of a majestic mountain, this is the single-most impressive sight in the city! It is famous for its thousands of vermilion torii or traditional Japanese gates – lining the network of trails behind its main buildings, which make for a stunning sight.
The Fushimi Inari Shrine is one of the most important Shinto shrines in southern Tokyo and among the more popular Japanese temples and shrines. Set out early for this iconic site in order to avoid the crowds. -
08
Take a step back in time at Hiroshima
Akshay: Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the museum set within its premises is dedicated to victims of the world’s first nuclear bomb. If you are visiting in August, the park plays host to the annual Japan Peace Memorial Ceremony.
Nearby on Miyajima Island you will find the floating torii gate – one of Japan’s best-loved UNESCO World Heritage sites. Take a tour of Hiroshima Museum for a poignant flashback to the Second World War and its impact on Japan. Get there easily with our Japan high speed rail tour. -
09
Marvel at the cherry blossoms in Osaka
Andy: While Tokyo and Kyoto may be the most popular locations for this activity, I would rather send you to the historic Osaka Castle during the legendary cherry blossom season. Spring is one of the best times to visit Japan, and the iconic pink hues decorate every part of the city. In Osaka, food carts and drummers come to the castle grounds to add to the festivities.
Apart from its importance in the history of Japan, the Osaka Castle also serves as a museum tracing Osaka’s history through the centuries. Don’t miss the Floating Garden Observatory Bridge between the towers of Umeda Sky Building, offering panoramic views of the city and more of the colorful cherry blossoms. -
10
Explore the mountain village of Shirakawa-gō
Akshay: Traveling to the historic mountain village of Shirakawa-gō was one of the most unique experiences for me. This UNESCO World Heritage site, one of Japan’s hidden treasures, is famous for charming, thatched roof houses spread over a vast, beautiful and often wintry wonderland.
The farmhouses have been constructed in the architectural style known as gasshō-zukuri – the sloping roofs allow for the snow to be easily shed. Some of these homes are nearly 250 years old! Visit in winter when the village, blanketed in soft white snow, offers a beautiful fairytale setting. This historic village of Japan will truly take you back in time!
Our Popular Japan Itineraries
Still not sure what to do in Japan? Choose a favorite itinerary and we’ll customize if just for you, or speak to one of our experts to plan your private Japan tour.
-
Islands of Okinawa and Cuisine of Japan
If you are looking to go beyond the beaten path, this Japan vacation, which blends beaches, nature and cuisine is the ideal one for you Sample ramen and visit an old sake brewery in the lively capital of Tokyo before heading off to explore the diverse landscapes of the Okinawan islands. Savor delicacies such as…
View More -
Classic Japan and Seoul
Discover the unique cultures and highlights of Japan and South Korea at their top destinations.
View More -
Japan's Onsen Traditions
Get the perfect introduction to Japan’s age-old traditions! Focused on onsen or hot spring bathing rituals, this private tour takes you to the mountain town of Kinosaki, set between Kyoto and Osaka, which is famed for its onsen bathhouses, ryokans (inn) and gorgeous scenery. While staying in a typical ryokan, you can also sample authentic…
View More
Discover the Top 10 Places to go in Japan
Your Dream Japan Vacation, Our Expertise
plan your japan tourThis page was contributed to by our Japan Destination Experts, Akshay Maggu, Andy Finlay and Cherisse Liptzin.