Japan is quite an amazing country full of both beautiful wildlife and bustling cities. While not the biggest country, Japan is jam packed with so many amazing places and towns full of culture and history. That's why we have compiled a list of 20 things you absolutely have to do when traveling to Japan, to help you get the most out of your adventure!
1. Visit Himeji Castle, Hyogo
Make sure to explore Himeji Castle, known as the "White Heron Castle" due to its elegant, white appearance. It is the largest castle in Japan and was finished being built in 1609.
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2. Visit Akihabara, Tokyo
Dive into the world of Otaku, a dedicated anime culture in Akihabara. Here you'll find tons of stores stocked with anime, manga, video games, and many bright colored billboards.
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3. Visit The Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kyoto
Take a stroll up the thousand Torii gates to visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine. You’ll find it’s quite the magical journey lined with bright red gates and a backdrop of lush green forest.
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4. Soak in Dogo Onsen, Ehime
Rest and relax at the Dogo Onsen in Ehime, one of the oldest hot springs in Japan. The thermal baths there are what inspired the setting for the Academy Award-winning film ‘Spirited Away’.
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5. Journey to Jigokudani Monkey Park, Nagano
Take a trip down to Jigokudani Monkey Park and observe the many wild Japanese macaques (snow monkeys) as they enjoy the hot springs. You’ll find they are quite clever and interesting creatures, and only found in Japan.
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6. Visit Hokkaido for Winter Activities
Hit the slopes in Hokkaido, Japan's most northern island. Surrounded by beautiful mountains, the many ski resorts offer the perfect getaway for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports.
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7. Experience Growing Wasabi at Daio Wasabi Farm
Make your own wasabi at the Daio Wasabi Farm in Nagano. You get to create and taste the many wasabi flavored foods, and learn about what makes wasabi special. Real wasabi has quite a more subtle but lasting taste than the imitations you typically find in North America.
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8. Hike the Kumano Kodo Route
Go on one of the most incredible hikes you can imagine through the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route. These ancient paths travel across the Kii Mountain range and have been used for over a thousand years.
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9. Visit Tsukiji Fish Market, Tokyo
Fish lovers should check out the world’s largest wholesale fish and seafood market. The outer Tsukiji market has endless stalls where you can get your hands on some seriously fresh seafood.
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10. Explore The Pottery Town of Arita, Saga
In the town of Arita on Kyushu Island, you can take in or take part in the historic ceramic-making process. The towns traditional techniques have been passed down through the generations, and are some of the finest pottery in the world.
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11. Find Vintage Items in Shimokitazawa, Tokyo
You’ll find some amazing deals in Shimokitazawa, Tokyo’s district for vintage clothing and merchandise. It's the perfect place if you like thrift shopping, music venues and trendy cafes.
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12. Walk The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Kyoto
You should definitely check out the natural beauty of the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in Kyoto. The towering bamboo trees provide an almost enchanting atmosphere and is the perfect place to take a photo.
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13. Drink in the Golden Gai, Tokyo
You should spend a night in Shinjuku's Golden Gai, an area famous for its narrow alleys of tiny bars. These tiny bars only fit a handful of people for a personal experience and each have their own unique vibe. This is a great way to get a quality taste of Tokyo's nightlife.
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14. Cycle the Shimanami Kaido
If you're a biking fan take trip across the Shimanami Kaido, a 60-kilometer long bike route that connects Japan's main island of Honshu to the island of Shikoku. You’ll find some amazing spots for pictures and great views of the Seto sea and skylines.
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15. Visit the Itsukushima Shrine, Hiroshima
Visit the one of a kind Itsukushima Shrine built on stilts. The unique setting on the water allows it appear as if the shrine is floating on the high tide.
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16. Indulge In Kobe Beef, Kobe
Visit one of the many top tier steak houses in Kobe, Japan. Kobe beef is considered to be the best meat in the world. The cows are treated well and have strict diets that result in an irresistible fatty flavor.
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17. Visit Moerenuma Park, Sapporo
Take a walk around Moerenuma Park in Sapporo, it’s a landscape art park designed by the artist Isamu Noguchi. You’ll find a fusion of nature and art with many sculptural areas you can hang out on. It’s a great attraction for both kids and adults.
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18. Ride the Hakone Ropeway over Owakudani Valley
Take a once in lifetime ride on the Hakone Ropeway over the volcanic valley of Owakudani. You won’t find better views of Lake Ashi and Mt Fuji on a clear day.
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19. Try Kaiseki Cuisine, Kyoto
If you’re in Japan you should try Kaiseki, a traditional multi-course meal. The meal contains many small intricate dishes that emphasize the many Japanese ingredients.
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20. Explore Disneyland Tokyo
You should check out Disney Tokyo the third-largest Disney park. You’ll find something that appeals to all ages, with unique food offerings and different rides compared to the American parks.
