As everyone knows, Japan is an extremely special country with few geographical comparisons. Rich in a culture that blends tradition and modernity, it is unique due to its history, food, and geographic location.
Witnessing its crafts, architecture, dance, cinema, pop culture, and art are all compelling reasons to visit Japan at least once in a lifetime. Assuming that you are now considering going to Japan, let’s take a look at the things that you can do to make your trip an unforgettable experience!
Here Are The 8 Best Things To Do In Japan:
1. Experience The Cherry Blossom
Even though we have all grown up seeing cherry blossoms in movies and cartoons, you have to experience it yourself to appreciate the serene, alluring beauty of the cherry blossom. Every year, throughout the spring, Japan has the cherry blossom season.
The majority of cherry blossom celebrations start around the end of March and can extend well into May, however, peak viewing times vary by location. It should come as no surprise that the over a million Sakura Trees—the biggest concentration of cherry trees in the world—make for an incredibly breathtaking sight. Cherry blossom spots are among the best places to visit in Japan for a memorable experience.
Places To See Cherry Blossom In Tokyo:
1. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
2. Koishikawa Botanical Gardens
3. Asakusa (Senso-ji Temple & Sumida River)
4. Chidori-ga-fuchi Boathouse
5. Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
2. Attend A Tea Ceremony
The tea ceremony is now one of the most characteristically Japanese activities, despite its Chinese origins. In the Japanese tea ceremony, tea is made, served, and consumed in a ceremonial and ritualistic manner. The goal is simple yet of extreme significance— fostering peace, well-being, and mindfulness.
The tea itself is Matcha, a powdered green tea that has become very popular in recent years (thanks to Starbucks and wellness influencers). The main objective of the tea ceremony is to allow guests to experience the host’s hospitality in an environment that is very different from the hectic routine of everyday life. So, just sit back and enjoy the most tranquil cup of tea you’ve ever had!
Try The Best And Authentic Tea Ceremony in Tokyo:
1. Kimono Tea Ceremony at Kyoto Maikoya
2. Shizu-kokoro Tea Ceremony
3. Tea Ceremony Experience in Asakusa
4. Tea Ceremony in Ginza
5. Fukagawa District
3. Lose Yourself In A Hot Spring
In general, bath culture plays a significant role in daily life in Japan. Taking a bath is a custom that dates back centuries, and people take baths at home or in the community bathhouse. With onsen, taking a bath in a natural hot spring is a whole new experience.
Since ancient times, hot springs have been adored by the Japanese people. This is because bathing in hot springs can be a wonderful way to allow oneself to relax and recover naturally.
Onsen is known to heal the body as well as the soul. Additionally, you can naturally detoxify your skin as the water can help soften rough or dry skin because of its high silica content. Kusatsu Onsen, Ginzan Onsen, Gero Onsen, and Hakone Onsen are a few must-visit hot springs destinations in Japan.
Must-visit Onsen in Tokyo:
1. Shuzenji Onsen
2. Kusatsu Onsen
3. Hakone (Kanagawa Prefecture)
4. Atami (Shizuoka Prefecture)
5. Kinugawa Onsen
4. Book A Karaoke In Tokyo
You have to try Japanese karaoke if you’re visiting Japan. It is as deeply ingrained in Japanese culture as visiting temples and hot springs. Whatever the true history of karaoke, one thing is for sure: singing is a popular pastime among the Japanese at social events and family get-togethers.
Considering that they are the ones who promote this kind of entertainment, it is not unusual to see how popular it is there. Karaoke is typically performed in private rooms with friends at places known as “karaoke boxes.” You can sing from the bottom of your heart; it’s your private area!
Places To Experience Karaoke In Tokyo:
1. Karaoke Kan Shibuya
2. Karaokekan Shinjuku
3. Karaoke Kan Shibuya (The one shown in — Lost in Translation)
5. Have Fun With Sushi On A Conveyor Belt
Visiting a conveyor belt sushi restaurant—also known as rotating sushi, sushi train, or Kaiten Sushi—is a fascinating way to try a range of sushi dishes. You might have seen or read about these unique sushi eateries in books, movies, or Japanese media.
Wondering how cool it sounds? Well, it is 100 times more fun to experience it! Customers can take advantage of this tried-and-true enjoyable, and entertaining manner to savour the cuisine and restaurant ambiance at their own pace. Sushi restaurants with conveyor belts are truly a must-visit when in Japan!
Place To Enjoy Conveyor Belt Sushi in Tokyo:
1. Sushi Saito
2. Uobei Shibuya Dogenzaka
3. Himawari Zushi Shintoshin
4. Kaiten Sushi Nemuro Hanamaru Ginza
5. Kura Sushi
6. Visit The Tallest Peak—Mount Fuji
If you are someone who read about Mount Fuji in your GK textbooks, well, it is now time to experience its beauty! When in Japan, be sure to see this well-known mountain with its symmetrical shape and snow-tipped peak.
If you are worried about the hike, fret not, as climbing Mount Fuji is a well-liked sport for those who have never done it before! Although it’s thought to be a relatively achievable climb for inexperienced hikers, being well-prepared is crucial to a safe and pleasurable journey.
Still skeptical about the hike? The good news is that you can still visit one of the mountain’s five stations, which are reachable by road and offer breathtaking views of the surroundings.
Things To Do Around Mt Fuji:
1. Visit Lake Kawaguchiko
2. Narusawa Ice Cave
3. Lake Yamanakako
4. Fujikawaguchiko Onsen (Hot Springs)
5. Lake Motosuko
7. Delight Your Taste Buds With Ramen
Ramen is a very popular dish in Japan, noted for its exquisite flavors and variety. It gained popularity after WWII since it was a low-cost and satisfying lunch for both soldiers and civilians.
In the decades since then, it has grown into something uniquely Japanese, with numerous intriguing variations. People are quite enthusiastic about this food, and ramen shops can be found in almost every neighborhood. It’s casual, fast cuisine, yet some of the most popular spots often have lines out the door.
Places To Try Best Ramen In Tokyo:
1. Menya Nukaji
2. Ginza Tsukiya
3. Ginza Rosokuya
4. Tsukemen Gonokami Seisakusho
5. Chinchintei
8. Visit Shrines And Temples
With over a hundred thousand sacred sites, shrines and temples are among the most popular tourist destinations in Japan. Shrines are frequented for significant annual events like ‘Oshogatsu’ (New Year’s Day) and festivals.
People also visit shrines to honor the spirits of kami and pray for good fortune. Throughout the year, many festivals are hosted all around Japan. Just remember to remain calm and show your respect.
Must-visit Temples In Tokyo:
1. Sensoji Temple
2. Meiji Jingu Shrine
3. Inokashira Benzaiten Shrine
Now that you know about the best things to do in Japan, pack your bags and plan your itinerary as fast as you can. You cannot afford to miss out on these memorable experiences!
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