Hello, this is the ShimaSuki editorial department.Japan is a land where ancient traditions coexist with cutting-edge technology. With its seasonal beauty, deep cultural roots, and welcoming locals, Japan offers a variety of unique and unforgettable experiences. In this guide, we introduce 10 must-do activities in Japan that will enrich your journey, whether it’s your first visit or a return trip.
- 1. Visit Shrines and Temples
- 2. Try Traditional Japanese Cuisine
- 3. Experience Cultural Activities
- 4. See or Climb Mount Fuji
- 5. Ride the Shinkansen
- 6. Visit a Japanese Castle
- 7. Enjoy Seasonal Beauty
- 8. Relax in an Onsen (Hot Spring)
- 9. Join a Festival
- 10. Explore Japan’s Islands
- Conclusion: Japan Awaits You
1. Visit Shrines and Temples
Japan is home to countless shrines and temples, each with a unique history and atmosphere. Shinto shrines are characterized by red torii gates, while Buddhist temples often feature massive wooden halls and serene gardens. Kyoto, Nara, and Kamakura are particularly famous for their historical religious sites.
Visiting these places is not only a cultural experience but also a way to feel spiritual peace. Don’t forget to wash your hands at the purification fountain and bow before praying.
Recommended Spots:
- Fushimi Inari Shrine (Kyoto)
- Sensoji Temple (Tokyo)
- Todai-ji Temple (Nara)
2. Try Traditional Japanese Cuisine
Japanese cuisine, known as “washoku,” is a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. It’s more than just food—it’s an expression of seasonality, aesthetics, and nutrition.
Try sushi, tempura, soba, and ramen. For something special, book a “kaiseki” meal, a traditional multi-course dining experience. Don’t forget to taste local specialties as you travel through different regions—each area has its own unique dishes and flavors.
Tip: Visit a department store’s basement food floor (depachika) to see a wide range of beautiful and delicious food!
3. Experience Cultural Activities
To truly understand Japanese culture, try participating in hands-on experiences.
Wearing a kimono, joining a tea ceremony, or trying Japanese calligraphy can give you a deep appreciation for the country’s sense of beauty and attention to detail. These experiences are often available in tourist cities such as Kyoto, Tokyo, and Kanazawa.
4. See or Climb Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji is Japan’s most iconic natural symbol. Its near-perfect symmetrical shape is awe-inspiring, and it’s a must-see whether you admire it from a distance or climb to the summit.
The official climbing season is July to early September. If you’re not climbing, you can enjoy stunning views from the Fuji Five Lakes area or the Shinkansen between Tokyo and Kyoto.
Tip: For the best photos, visit Lake Kawaguchi or Chureito Pagoda!
5. Ride the Shinkansen
The shinkansen (bullet train) is not only fast and punctual but also extremely comfortable. It’s a great way to travel long distances and admire Japan’s scenery along the way.
There are different types of bullet trains, such as Nozomi, Hikari, and Sakura. If you plan to travel extensively, consider purchasing a Japan Rail Pass in advance.
Bonus: Try the “ekiben” (train station bento) for a truly Japanese travel experience!
6. Visit a Japanese Castle
Japanese castles are architectural marvels and symbols of the feudal era. Many were destroyed in wars or natural disasters, but some remain intact or have been beautifully reconstructed.
Exploring a castle gives insight into the life of samurai and the regional history of Japan.
Top Castles:
- Himeji Castle (Hyogo) – known as the “White Heron Castle”
- Matsumoto Castle (Nagano) – famous for its black walls
- Kumamoto Castle (Kumamoto) – partially restored after the 2016 earthquake
7. Enjoy Seasonal Beauty
Japan’s four seasons are distinct and offer different kinds of beauty throughout the year.
- Spring (March–May): Cherry blossoms bloom all over the country
- Summer (June–August): Colorful festivals, fireworks, and lush greenery
- Autumn (September–November): Red and gold foliage paints the landscape
- Winter (December–February): Snowy mountains, skiing, and hot springs
No matter when you visit, there’s always something amazing to see.
8. Relax in an Onsen (Hot Spring)
Soaking in an onsen is a quintessential Japanese experience. With over 3,000 hot spring resorts across the country, you can relax your body and soul in both natural and luxurious settings.
Be aware that many onsen require full nudity and may not allow tattoos, though some now offer private baths or tattoo-friendly areas.
Famous Onsen Towns:
- Kusatsu (Gunma)
- Beppu (Oita)
- Hakone (Kanagawa)
- Noboribetsu (Hokkaido)
9. Join a Festival
Festivals (matsuri) are a window into Japan’s vibrant local traditions. They often include parades, dancing, traditional music, and street food. Each region has its own unique celebrations based on history and seasonal customs.
Popular Festivals:
- Gion Matsuri (Kyoto)
- Aomori Nebuta Festival (Aomori)
- Snow Festival (Sapporo)
- Tenjin Matsuri (Osaka)
Festivals are a great way to connect with locals and experience the lively side of Japanese culture.
10. Explore Japan’s Islands
Beyond the main islands of Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Shikoku, Japan has thousands of smaller islands, many of which are stunningly beautiful and rich in culture.
From the tropical beaches of Okinawa to the art-covered island of Naoshima, these destinations offer unforgettable adventures away from the crowds.
Recommended Islands:
- Miyako and Ishigaki (Okinawa)
- Naoshima (Kagawa)
- Sado (Niigata)
- Oki Islands (Shimane)
Island hopping in Japan is a unique way to explore lesser-known aspects of the country.
Conclusion: Japan Awaits You
From spiritual temples to futuristic trains, and from snowy mountains to sunny beaches, Japan is a country of contrasts and harmony. These ten experiences only scratch the surface, but they offer a deep dive into what makes Japan truly special.
Whether you’re drawn to nature, fascinated by culture, or simply looking for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, Japan is ready to welcome you with open arms.
