Japan is a country that seamlessly combines the past and the future and offers a variety of experiences to suit every type of traveller. From the vibrant city lights of Tokyo to the tranquil gardens of Kyoto, Japan is a land of contrasts. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a foodie, or seeking adventure, Japan promises a journey of discovery and wonder. Come with Designer Journeys and unveil the list of cool stuff to do in Japan and discover what makes this country a must-visit destination on every traveller’s list.
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History and Culture Buffs
For history enthusiasts and culture buffs, Japan offers many experiences that transport you back in time. From the solemnity of Hiroshima to the timeless elegance of Kyoto’s temples, this section explores the destinations where Japan’s rich history and vibrant culture come alive.
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum
In the heart of Hiroshima lies a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit: the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum. Established to commemorate the victims of the atomic bomb during World War II, the park and museum offer a poignant look into one of history’s darkest hours. Visitors are invited to reflect on peace and humanity through exhibits narrating August 6, 1945, and the aftermath. A visit here is an educational experience and a solemn reminder of the importance of peace.
The Peace Memorial Park and Museum commemorate the victims of the atomic bomb during World War II.
Kyoto’s Temples and Shrines
Kyoto, once the imperial capital of Japan, is a city that embodies the soul of Japanese tradition. Kiyomizu-dera, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers breathtaking views of cherry blossoms or autumn leaves, depending on the season. Fushimi Inari-taisha, known for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, presents a path leading into another world. Each temple and shrine in Kyoto tells a story of faith, art, and history, inviting visitors to step back in time.
Fushimi Inari-taisha, known for its thousands of vermilion torii gates.
Kinkaku-ji: The Golden Pavilion
Nestled among the serene landscapes of Kyoto stands Kinkaku-ji, or the Golden Pavilion, a Zen Buddhist temple that represents the height of elegance and harmony in Japanese architecture. Covered in brilliant gold leaf, the pavilion reflects beautifully in the pond before it, creating a stunning visual spectacle. Kinkaku-ji is a feast for the eyes and a symbol of the peaceful coexistence between human creativity and nature’s tranquillity. Visiting this iconic site offers a moment of reflection and admiration for the meticulous care and artistic detail that define Japanese culture.
Golden Temple Kinkaku-ji symbolises the peaceful coexistence between human creativity and nature’s tranquillity.
Traditional Tea Ceremony
The Japanese tea ceremony is more than just a method of preparing tea. It is a spiritual and philosophical experience. Participating in a tea ceremony in Kyoto allows you to immerse yourself in the art of tea, characterized by harmony, respect, purity, and tranquillity. This intricate ritual performed gracefully and precisely, offers insight into the aesthetic principles underpinning Japanese culture.
This intricate ritual offers insight into the aesthetic principles underpinning Japanese culture.
Ryokan Experience
To truly experience Japanese hospitality, one must stay at a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn. These establishments offer a glimpse into Japanese lifestyle and etiquette, featuring tatami-matted rooms, onsen baths, and kaiseki meals. A ryokan stay is an invitation to slow down and savour the meticulous care and serene beauty of traditional arts that define Japanese hospitality.
Japanese traditional inns with tatami-matted rooms, onsen baths, and kaiseki meals.
Samurai and Feudal Japan: Himeji Castle
Himeji Castle, a stunning example of 17th-century Japanese architecture, is a monument to the era of samurai and feudal lords. Known as “White Heron Castle” for its elegant appearance, this UNESCO World Heritage site allows visitors to wander through the history of Japan’s military and architectural ingenuity. Exploring its many defences and admiring its beauty, one can almost hear the echoes of samurai footsteps.
Himeji Castle is one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites show the history of Japan’s military and architectural ingenuity.
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Ancient Temples of Nara
Nara, Japan’s first permanent capital, is home to some of the country’s oldest and most significant temples. Sites like Todai-ji, housing the world’s largest bronze statue of the Buddha, and the serene Kasuga-taisha, with its lantern-lined paths, offer a peaceful retreat into Japan’s spiritual history. These ancient grounds provide a sanctuary where history and nature intertwine.
Todai-ji, the house of the world’s largest bronze statue of the Buddha in Japan.
Kabuki Theatre Performance
For those fascinated by performing arts, a Kabuki theatre performance is a must-see. This traditional Japanese form of drama, recognized for its elaborate costumes, stylized performance, and all-male casts, offers a unique glimpse into Japan’s cultural heritage. Watching a Kabuki play in Tokyo or Kyoto is an experience that captivates with its blend of history, art, and storytelling.
Kabuki Theatre in Tokyo, Japan.
Food Enthusiasts
Japan is a paradise for food lovers, offering a culinary journey that extends far beyond its world-famous sushi. From bustling street food stalls to serene tea houses, every corner of Japan offers a unique taste of its rich and diverse food culture. Here’s a guide to some of the most memorable dining experiences that await you in Japan.
Sushi in Tokyo
No visit to Japan would be complete without indulging in sushi, and Tokyo offers the pinnacle of this culinary art. Toyosu Market, the world’s largest wholesale fish and seafood market, provides a behind-the-scenes look at the sushi industry, including the famous tuna auction. For an unforgettable experience, enjoy sushi at one of Tokyo’s Michelin-starred restaurants, where the freshness and flavours reach their zenith.
Eating sushi in Japan is different from eating it elsewhere, and there are strict rules. Sushi comes in many forms. While it all involves rice prepared with sushi vinegar, it doesn’t all include raw fish. Vegetarian sushi is made with tofu, cucumber, and other vegetables.
Eat Sushi in Tokyo offers the pinnacle of this culinary art.
Street Food in Osaka
Dubbed the nation’s kitchen, Osaka is the street food capital of Japan. The Dotonbori area, with its dazzling neon lights and bustling atmosphere, is where you can savour local delicacies like takoyaki (octopus balls) and kushikatsu (deep-fried skewered meat and vegetables). Each bite is a testament to Osaka’s love affair with food, promising flavours that are as vibrant and dynamic as the city itself.
Osaka is the street food capital of Japan.
Kaiseki Meals in Kyoto
For those seeking a deeper understanding of Japanese culinary traditions, a kaiseki meal in Kyoto is a must. This multi-course dining experience is a feast for the senses, emphasizing seasonal ingredients, presentation, and the subtle flavours of Japanese cuisine. Kaiseki embodies the spirit of omotenashi, or Japanese hospitality, offering a dining experience that’s as much about the artistry and atmosphere as it is about the food.
Kaiseki embodies the spirit of Japanese hospitality.
Okonomiyaki in Hiroshima
Okonomiyaki, often described as a Japanese savoury pancake, is a speciality of Hiroshima. Unlike the Osaka style, Hiroshima’s version layers ingredients rather than mixing them, resulting in a unique texture and flavour profile. Visiting local okonomiyaki restaurants lets you watch the chefs masterfully prepare this dish on a teppan (iron griddle), making for a mouthwatering and interactive dining experience.
Okonomiyaki, often described as a Japanese savoury pancake.
Yatai Stalls in Fukuoka
Fukuoka is renowned for its yatai, or mobile food stalls, which offer a casual and communal dining experience. Lining the riverbanks, these stalls serve up everything from ramen and yakitori to fresh seafood. Dining at a yatai is not just about the food; it’s an opportunity to engage with locals and fellow travellers, making it a warm and welcoming experience for all.
Dining at a yatai is not just about the food, is an opportunity to engage with locals and fellow travellers.
Sake Tasting
No exploration of Japanese cuisine would be complete without sake, the country’s famed rice wine. Regions like Niigata and Kobe are known for their breweries, where visitors can learn about the sake-making process and sample different varieties. Sake tasting offers insights into the complexities of this traditional beverage, enhancing your appreciation for Japan’s culinary heritage.
Sake, Japanese famed rice wine.
Nature and Outdoor Lovers
Japan’s natural landscapes offer a tranquil counterpoint to its bustling urban centres. From the northern reaches of Hokkaido to the subtropical islands of Okinawa, nature enthusiasts will find plenty of reasons to venture outdoors.
Natural Onsen in Hakone or Beppu
The volcanic landscape of Japan has blessed the country with thousands of onsen, or natural hot springs. Hakone and Beppu are two destinations whose most famous sights are for their onsen resorts, offering a blissful escape into nature. Soaking in an onsen is a quintessential Japanese experience, promising relaxation and rejuvenation amidst scenic beauty.
Hakone and Beppu are two destinations famous for hot spring resorts.
Climbing or Viewing Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji, Japan’s iconic peak, symbolises beauty and perseverance. Climbing Mount Fuji is a challenging but rewarding endeavour, offering breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment. For those who prefer a less strenuous experience, the Fuji Five Lakes region offers spectacular views and activities like boating and cycling, all within sight of the majestic mountain.
Mt Fuji, Japan’s iconic peak, symbolises beauty and perseverance.
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in Kyoto is a place of otherworldly beauty. Walking through this dense bamboo forest, with its towering stalks swaying gently in the breeze, is a serene and almost meditative experience. The grove is a testament to the beauty of Japanese nature, providing a tranquil retreat from the outside world.
The grove is a testament to the beauty of Japanese nature, providing a tranquil retreat from the outside world.
Jigokudani Monkey Park
In the heart of Nagano’s snowy mountains lies Jigokudani Monkey Park, home to the famous snow monkeys. These Japanese macaques have extraordinarily adapted to the cold, seeking warmth in the area’s natural hot springs. Observing these monkeys as they soak and play in the onsen, completely unfazed by the human presence, is a unique and enchanting experience.
Jigokudani Monkey Park, home to the famous snow monkeys.
Sapporo Snow Festival
The Sapporo Snow Festival, held annually in Hokkaido, transforms the city into a winter wonderland of snow and ice sculptures. Artists worldwide contribute to this spectacular display, including massive structures and intricate ice carvings. Beyond the sculptures, the festival offers many winter sports and activities, celebrating all things snow and ice.
Sapporo Snow Festival held annually in Hokkaido.
Adventure Seekers
For those who thirst for adventure, Japan offers a landscape ripe with exhilarating experiences, blending the thrill of exploration with the country’s unique cultural and natural beauty. From high-speed rail journeys to urban escapades, here’s where adventure seekers can quench their thirst for excitement.
Ride the Shinkansen (Bullet Train)
The Shinkansen, Japan’s bullet train, is not just a mode of transportation; it’s an experience in itself. Travelling at speeds of up to 320 km/h (199 mph), the Shinkansen offers a smooth, efficient, and thrilling way to see the country. The journey between Tokyo and Kyoto or Osaka whisks you through a changing landscape that combines urban sprawl, rural beauty, and technological marvels, all from the comfort of your seat.
Shinkansen offers a smooth, efficient, and thrilling way to see the country.
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Participate in a Go-Kart Street Tour
Imagine dressing up as your favourite video game or comic book character and hitting the streets of Tokyo in a go-kart. This unique adventure allows you to see the city from a new perspective, weaving through landmarks like Shibuya Crossing and Tokyo Tower. It’s a fun, unconventional way to tour the city, offering both adrenaline and laughs in equal measure.
Experience real-life Mario kart is a fun way to tour the city.
Image source: Street Kart Tokyo Bay
Climb Mount Fuji During the Climbing Season
Mount Fuji, standing at 3,776 meters (12,389 feet), is Japan’s tallest peak and a symbol of the country’s natural beauty. Climbing Fuji is a bucket-list item for many, offering the physical challenge of the ascent and spiritual significance. From early July to early September, the climbing season sees thousands make the pilgrimage, rewarded with sunrise views that are nothing short of transformative.
Climbing Fuji is one of the Japan bucket list items for many adventure seekers.
The Bustling Intersection of Shibuya Crossing
Shibuya Crossing, often described as the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing, is an adventure in urban navigation. As the lights change, hundreds, sometimes thousands, of people surge across the intersection from all directions. Standing amidst the controlled chaos, surrounded by towering screens and neon lights, is a quintessential Tokyo experience that captures the energy and pulse of the city.
Busy Shibuya crossing, the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing.
Luxury Travelers
For those seeking the finer things in life, Japan offers unparalleled luxury experiences where traditional elegance meets modern sophistication. Japan’s luxury offerings cater to the most discerning travellers, from dining to relaxation.
Stay at Michelin-starred Sushi Restaurants
Tokyo boasts more Michelin stars than any other city in the world, and its sushi restaurants are a testament to this culinary prestige. Dining at one of these establishments is not just a meal; it’s an intimate encounter with the art of sushi. With chefs showcasing years of dedication to perfecting their craft, guests are treated to an exclusive experience tantalising the senses with every bite.
Fresh sushi in Harutaka, one of the Michelin-starred Sushi restaurants in Tokyo.
Image source: Ginza sushi
Enjoy a multi-course Kaiseki Meal in a High-End Ryokan
Kaiseki, the pinnacle of Japanese cuisine, is a culinary journey through the seasons, emphasizing freshness, presentation, and flavour. In the serene setting of a high-end ryokan or a sophisticated Kyoto restaurant, a kaiseki meal becomes an exquisite demonstration of Japanese hospitality and culinary artistry, leaving an indelible impression on those fortunate enough to experience it.
Relax in a Luxury Onsen Resort
Japan’s luxury onsen resorts offer a sanctuary of relaxation and rejuvenation, where the healing properties of natural hot springs are complemented by impeccable service and serene landscapes. With its views of Mount Fuji and verdant surroundings, Hakone is a prime destination for those looking to indulge in the opulent tranquillity of a high-end onsen experience.
A Natural Hot Spring Gushing from 1,500m Below Ground.
Image source: Hoshino Resorts
Shop in the Upscale Districts
For luxury shoppers, the districts of Ginza in Tokyo and the bustling streets of Osaka offer an array of high-end boutiques, flagship stores, and sophisticated department stores. These shopping havens provide the latest in fashion and technology and a glimpse into the art of Japanese retail, where service and quality are unparalleled.
Ginza in Tokyo offers an array of high-end boutiques.
Pop Culture and Modern Japan Fans
Japan’s vibrant pop culture scene is renowned worldwide, offering a kaleidoscope of experiences that draw from the cutting-edge of technology, fashion, and entertainment. For those enchanted by Japan’s dynamic and often whimsical side, these destinations provide a deep dive into the heart of modern Japanese culture.
Experience the Robot Restaurant
Update: The much-awaited reopening of the Robot Restaurant has been postponed temporarily due to equipment maintenance. You can check out the new Samurai Restaurant in the same venue, which opened in October.
Situated in the bustling district of Shinjuku, Tokyo, the Robot Restaurant is a dazzling spectacle of lights, robots, and live performances. It’s an embodiment of Japan’s penchant for blending technology with entertainment. Visitors are treated to a show that defies description, with giant robots and costumed performers engaging in dance battles and theatrical skits. This surreal experience is a testament to Tokyo’s modern and eclectic entertainment landscape.
Visit Akihabara in Tokyo
Akihabara, also known as Electric Town, is the epicentre of Japan’s otaku culture, catering to anime, manga, video games, and electronics fans. The district is a labyrinth of stores, cafés, and entertainment venues dedicated to various aspects of pop culture. Whether you’re searching for rare collectables, wanting to experience a themed café, or simply soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, Akihabara offers a glimpse into the subcultures that influence global trends.
Akihabara, also known as Electric Town, is a modern city with a lot of cool stuff to do.
Stay in a Capsule Hotel
Capsule hotels offer a uniquely Japanese solution to urban accommodation, combining efficiency with a touch of futurism. These hotels feature compact, pod-like sleeping quarters with amenities that maximize space and comfort. Staying in a capsule hotel is not just about convenience; it’s an opportunity to experience the innovative approaches to life that epitomize modern Japan.
Capsule hotels offer a uniquely Japanese solution to urban accommodation.
Families and Children
Japan is a wonderland for families, offering many attractions that cater to both the young and the young at heart. The country provides a safe, clean, and engaging environment for family adventures, from theme parks to educational museums.
Visit Disneyland or Universal Studios Japan for Theme Park Entertainment
Tokyo Disneyland and Universal Studios Japan in Osaka are gateways to worlds of fantasy and excitement. These parks blend classic and new attractions themed around beloved characters and stories. With meticulously designed environments and top-tier entertainment, families can enjoy magical experiences that spark the imagination of children and adults alike.
Super Nintendo World in Universal Studios Japan.
Enjoy a Day Trip to Kamakura to See the Great Buddha and Enjoy the Beaches
Kamakura, a coastal town less than an hour from Tokyo, offers a mix of cultural heritage and natural beauty. The Great Buddha of Kamakura, a towering bronze statue, provides a serene backdrop for reflection and photography. Beyond its historical sites, Kamakura’s beaches offer a relaxing getaway with opportunities for swimming, surfing, and enjoying the seaside atmosphere.
Kamakura’s beaches offer a relaxing getaway with swimming, surfing, and enjoying the seaside atmosphere.
The Edo-Tokyo Museum
The Edo-Tokyo Museum presents Japan’s rich history through interactive exhibits and lifelike reconstructions, making it an educational adventure for families. Visitors can walk through models of Edo-period streets, explore detailed replicas of historical buildings, and engage with exhibits that bring the past to life. It’s a fascinating way to learn about the transformation of Tokyo from a feudal capital to a modern metropolis.
Edo-Tokyo Museum presents Japan’s rich history.
Walk Through Ueno Park
Ueno Park is a vast public space in Tokyo that offers a variety of attractions suitable for families. The Ueno Zoo, Japan’s oldest zoo, is home to many animals, including the beloved giant pandas. The park also houses several museums and art galleries, providing cultural enrichment amidst the natural beauty of the park’s cherry blossoms and lotus ponds.
Cherry blossom in Ueno Park.
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There are so many incredible tourist attractions to see when you visit Japan. Diverse landscapes, rich cultural tapestry, and forward-thinking innovation make it a destination that transcends ordinary travel experiences. Whether you’re a history buff, food enthusiast, nature lover, adventure seeker, luxury traveller, pop culture fan, or travelling with family, Japan has something special in store for you. We invite you to explore, discover, and fall in love with the cool stuff that makes Japan truly unique.
