99 Things to Do in Japan (By City, Interest, & Season)

Japan is a fascinating country that perfectly blends ancient traditions with cutting-edge modernity. From serene temples and traditional tea ceremonies to bustling neon-lit cities and futuristic technology, Japan offers an unparalleled travel experience. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the best of Japan and easily plan your trip, whether you’re interested in exploring the bustling metropolises of Tokyo, the cultural heart of Kyoto, or the food paradise of Osaka.

Quick Links to Core City Guides:

• Tokyo: The Ultimate Metropolis
• Kyoto: The Cultural Heart
• Osaka: Food & Fun Capital

Ⅰ. Japan’s Top 10 Must-Do Activities (Quick Picks)

1. Stroll through ancient Kiyomizu-dera temple in Kyoto This UNESCO World Heritage site offers stunning architecture and beautiful seasonal views that change throughout the year. Learn more in our Kyoto guide

2. Experience the crowds at Tokyo’s Shibuya Crossing You’ll experience the energy at the world’s busiest pedestrian intersection. It captures the essence of Tokyo’s urban dynamism. Learn more in our Tokyo guide

3. Soak in a traditional Japanese hot spring (onsen) Japan’s natural hot springs are relaxing and therapeutic. You’ll feel rejuvenated after this traditional experience. Learn more in our Hakone section

4. Attend a spectacular Japanese fireworks festival These summer events feature thousands of colorful displays lighting up the night sky. The scale and beauty of these cultural celebrations are impressive.

5. Stay in a traditional Japanese inn (ryokan) Experience authentic Japanese hospitality, cuisine, and culture at a traditional ryokan. It connects you with Japan’s heritage.

6. Walk under iconic cherry blossoms during spring The beautiful and fleeting sakura season is magical. You’ll understand why this experience captivates visitors from around the world when you witness it yourself.

7. Experience the convenience and speed of Japan’s bullet train (shinkansen) This is the world’s most advanced high-speed rail system. You’ll appreciate how efficiently you can travel between cities with such comfort and speed.

8. Feel the urban energy and nightlife of Tokyo The neon-lit districts of Shibuya and Shinjuku offer entertainment options that continue well into the night. The vibrant atmosphere is distinctly Tokyo.

9. Discover unique snacks at Japanese convenience stores Try the varieties of snacks, drinks, and desserts that showcase Japan’s convenience culture. You’ll find treats you won’t see anywhere else! People love to buy wasabi flavour Kitkats for their friends and family!

10. Enjoy sushi and fresh sashimi at Tsukiji Outer Market The taste of the freshest fish at the successor to the famous Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo is exceptional. You’ll experience some of the freshest seafood available.

Ⅱ. Things to Do by City

Tokyo (The Metropolis)

Tokyo is a sprawling metropolis that offers an incredible diversity of experiences. From ancient temples to cutting-edge technology, this city has something for everyone. For a more detailed guide, check out our complete Tokyo travel guide. Here are six must-visit attractions for first-time visitors:

1. SHIBUYA SKY This relatively new attraction sits in Shibuya’s tallest building, “Shibuya Scramble Square.” It’s got three main areas across floors 14, 45, and 46, plus the rooftop “SKY GATE” and “SKY STAGE,” along with the “SKY GALLERY” on floor 46. From up here, you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of Tokyo from about 230 meters up. You’ll be able to see landmarks like Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree, and on clear days, you can even spot Mount Fuji in the distance. After sunset, the whole place lights up with illumination, giving you a completely different vibe from the daytime view.

2. Senso-ji Temple With over 1,300 years of history, Senso-ji is Tokyo’s most famous and oldest temple, making it one of the city’s top tourist attractions. The large red lantern hanging from “Kaminarimon” (Thunder Gate) is a real symbol of Asakusa, with statues of thunder and wind gods on either side. The “Nakamise-dori Shopping Street” stretches 250 meters from Kaminarimon to the main hall and is packed with shops selling crafts and unique souvenirs.

3. Meiji Shrine Dedicated to the spirits of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, the shrine grounds feature an artificial forest of over 10,000 trees, creating this massive forest environment right in the heart of Tokyo. Meiji Shrine has the main hall, inner garden, outer garden, and Meiji Memorial Hall. The inner garden at the center of the shrine is peaceful and serene, while the outer garden centers around the Sacred Memorial Gallery and has sports facilities. The shrine’s got lots of spiritual spots and is the most visited shrine in Japan during New Year’s.

4. Ameyoko (Ameya Yokocho) Ameyoko is this 500-meter-long shopping street that runs from JR Ueno Station to JR Okachimachi Station, with about 400 shops all lined up. The shopping street doesn’t allow vehicle traffic, so you can shop without worrying about cars. This area’s packed with various shops focused mainly on food, and they host promotional events year-round. With vendors calling out and crowds of bargain hunters, the shopping street’s got loads of energy. Just walking around here gives you a real taste of old-school Tokyo downtown.

5. Ueno Park Ueno Park is this spacious and historically rich park that’s well-known as one of Tokyo’s top attractions. It’s super convenient to get to from the “Koen Gate” of Ueno Station on the Yamanote Line, which leads you right into Ueno Park. The park covers about 530,000 square meters, and within its vast grounds you’ll find attractions like Ueno Zoo, National Museum of Western Art, National Science Museum, Tokyo National Museum, and Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum - you could easily spend a full day here. It’s especially famous as a cherry blossom viewing spot in spring, drawing huge crowds of flower-viewers from across Japan and around the world every year.

6. Kabuki-za Kabuki is Japan’s traditional performing art. While performances happen in theaters throughout Japan, the most impressive and famous stage is the specialized Kabuki theater “Kabuki-za.” A lot of people might think watching a Kabuki performance would be tough to follow, but that’s not really the case. At Kabuki-za, you can enjoy Kabuki in an affordable and easy way by getting “same-day tickets” or “ichimaku-mi seats” which let you watch just one scene from the whole play.

Kyoto (The Cultural Heart)

For a comprehensive guide to Kyoto’s attractions, check out our complete Kyoto travel guide.

1. Kiyomizu-dera Temple (Higashiyama Kiyomizu Temple) Founded back in 778, Kiyomizu-dera became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994. The temple sits on the slope of Mount Otowa, and across its massive 130,000 square meter grounds you’ll find more than 30 halls and stone monuments, including national treasures and important cultural properties. The temple’s got amazing natural scenery, and you can enjoy different views of the temple grounds with spring cherry blossoms, lush greenery in summer, beautiful autumn maple colors, and winter snowscapes throughout the four seasons.

2. Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine Inari shrines are known all over Japan as places that bless bountiful harvests, business prosperity, family safety, healing from illness, and the fulfillment of various wishes. There are about 30,000 of them across the country, with Fushimi Inari-taisha in Kyoto being the head shrine, built way back in 711. The most eye-catching attraction at Fushimi Inari-taisha is the “Senbon Torii” (thousand torii gates). Located behind the main hall, the vermillion torii gates are lined up in this tunnel-like fashion. These gates came from offerings by grateful believers, and now there are over 10,000 gates covering the entire Inari mountain.

3. Yasaka Shrine The main deities at Yasaka Shrine are Susanoo-no-Mikoto, Kushinadahime-no-Mikoto, and the eight Yakusya Mikoto. It’s the head shrine for about 2,300 Yasaka shrines across the country and shrines related to Susanoo-no-Mikoto. Since ancient times, people have revered it as “Gion-gu” or “Gion-sha,” and it’s beloved by locals who call it “Gion-san.” Back in 869 (the 11th year of Jogan), when a big epidemic broke out in Kyoto, people prayed to the Yasaka deity for disaster relief, after which it became known as a deity for removing disasters and received deep faith. The famous Gion Festival, one of Japan’s three great festivals, is said to have originated from this disaster-relief prayer.

4. Nishiki Market Located on Nishiki-koji Street north of Shijo-dori, which is Kyoto’s main street. The fresh fish shops in this area really took off, and with the approval of the Edo shogunate back in 1615, further development was possible. From Kyoto vegetables to freshwater fish from Lake Biwa, eel, horse mackerel, flounder, yuba (tofu skin), fu (wheat gluten), and pickles - you can find ingredients for everything here, and it’s deeply rooted in people’s hearts as “Kyoto’s Kitchen.” You can find Kyoto-specific ingredients here almost entirely.

5. Gion Festival The world-famous “Gion Festival” is one of Japan’s three great festivals. This festival, which draws lots of domestic and international visitors, originated back in 869 (the 11th year of Jogan) when people prayed to the Yasaka deities for disease relief and disaster relief during a big epidemic that spread from Kyoto throughout Japan. It’s now a ritual activity of Yasaka Shrine, and starting July 1st each year, various Shinto ceremonies and activities go on for a month.

6. Sagano Bamboo Grove Path, Arashiyama Thanks to its beautiful scenery, Sagano has been loved by nobles and literary people since the Heian period (794-1185). They built lots of villas and retreats in Sagano. The Sagano Bamboo Grove Path extends from Ninnomiya Shrine through the north gate of Tenryu-ji Temple to the Ohgakiyama Villa, and it’s this 400-meter-long walking path called the “Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Path.” The beautiful sight of green bamboo reaching straight up to the sky frequently appears on travel magazines, TV dramas, and advertisement covers, and it’s considered a representative landscape of Kyoto.

Osaka (Food & Fun)

For a detailed guide to Osaka’s attractions, food, and culture, check out our complete Osaka travel guide.

1. Universal Studios Japan Universal Studios Japan is the number one choice for most people when ranking Osaka attractions, with the most popular Mario area being incredibly fun, and the newly opened Donkey Kong Country area being spectacular. I’ve put together all the latest info on must-play attractions, must-buy popcorn buckets, food, transportation, etc. at Osaka Universal Studios, so you’re guaranteed to have a blast.

• Super Nintendo World: Experience interactive rides like Mario Kart and Yoshi’s Adventure, plus the thrilling Donkey Kong’s Crazy Kong Coaster
• Harry Potter Area: Ride the immersive Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey or experience Flight of the Hippogriff
• Minion Park: Enjoy the Minion-themed rides including Minion Mayhem and the Freeze Laser Ride
• Hollywood Area: Experience the thrilling Hollywood Dream rides, both the original and sequel
• Jurassic Park: Soar through the air on Flying Prey or take the exciting Jurassic Park River Adventure
• New York Area: Watch the Detective Conan 4-D movie experience
• Waterworld: Watch the action-packed Waterworld show

2. Dotonbori Shopping District - One of Osaka’s most popular commercial districts and accommodation areas. You can’t say you’ve been to Osaka without taking a photo with the “Running Man” sign! Besides the Glico man sign, Dotonbori is also Osaka’s food headquarters, with tons of popular spots like Senryo Okonomiyaki, Motoyoshi Takoyaki, Daruma Kushikatsu, and Kintaro Ramen. The countless flashy and oversized signs throughout the entire district are incredibly eye-catching and you won’t want to miss them for photos. Grab Bobbi’s “Dotonbori Shopping Map” and go all out!

3. Shinsaibashi Shopping District - An Osaka tourist attraction where crowds pack the streets, and you’ll easily get tired from walking around. Compared to Dotonbori, it has more department stores, clothing shops, and drugstores. The whole route has a covered walkway, so you don’t have to worry about sun or rain. Pair it with Bobbi’s “Shinsaibashi Shopping Map” that’s packed with info, and go on a shopping spree!

• Clothing Brands: UNIQLO, GU, WEGO, SENSE OF PLACE
• Department Stores & Luxury: Daimaru Department Store (Gucci, Chanel, Pokemon Center!), PARCO
• Food: Pokemon Cafe, Hokkyokusei Omurice, Ujiyamaya Matcha, PABLO Half-Baked Cheesecake
• Drugstores: Matsumoto Kiyoshi, Sun Drug, SUGI Pharmacy, Kokumin Drugstore, COSMOS Drugstore, Tsuruha Drugstore

4. LEGOLAND Japan A must-visit for LEGO enthusiasts! LEGOLAND Japan is strictly for families with kids, making it completely an Osaka family attraction. You should definitely check it out. The most popular attractions “Shooting Game” and “Air Bike” are must-plays, and kids will have a blast. The special “4D LEGO Movie” is also a classic you won’t want to miss. It’s also fun to build your own “LEGO Car” and race it on the track. The “Playground” inside has slides and climbing nets that kids love. The park isn’t huge but it’s very enjoyable.

5. Umeda Sky Building Observatory Made up of two buildings connected by a ring-shaped observatory at the top, this Osaka night view spot has a stylish and impressive design. The main highlight is walking on the 40th floor, which is completely open-air with no glass barriers, letting you directly experience the cool air while looking out over Osaka cityscape in a 360-degree unobstructed view.

6. Osaka Castle Together with Nagoya Castle and Kumamoto Castle, it’s one of Japan’s three great castles. Built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi in 1583, it was the base where he ended the Warring States period and completed the unification. Climbing the eight-story Osaka Castle donjon is the highlight, where you can check out numerous historical artifacts, and there’s also a paid rental experience for Sengoku period samurai helmets, armor, etc. The view from the top of Osaka cityscape is beautifully scenic, and the third-generation donjon after destruction and reconstruction is a super popular landmark and must-visit Osaka attraction.

Nara

Nara’s most exciting highlight is the World Heritage-listed shrines and temples. Of course, Nara’s charm goes far beyond this. Some areas still preserve the old Edo-era streetscapes, and leisurely strolling through the traditionally styled old districts, experiencing the wonderful feeling of traveling through time, is also interesting.

1. Nara Park Nara Park is extremely spacious, covering an area of more than 500 hectares. Within the park, there are approximately 1,300 wild deer, and you can easily see deer just by casually walking around. Legend has it that when the capital was moved to Nara in 710, the main deity of Kasuga Taisha, Takemikazuchi-no-Mikoto, came riding a white deer from Kashima Shrine. Therefore, deer are regarded as “messengers of the gods” in Nara. To feed the deer, remember to buy deer crackers (200 yen) from vendors in Nara Park. Feeding them your own food arbitrarily may result in a 50,000 yen fine. Remember that deer are wild animals, don’t tease them with crackers for too long, and after feeding, remember to spread your hands to show that you have no food left, otherwise you might get bitten on the butt!

2. Kasuga Taisha Shrine Kasuga Taisha originated in the early Nara period. Legend says that to protect Heijo-kyo (the ancient name for Nara) and the safety and prosperity of the nation, Takemikazuchi-no-Mikoto rode a divine deer from Kashima Shrine in Ibaraki Prefecture and descended to Mount Mikasa. In 768 AD, under the imperial decree, the main hall was built at the foot of Mount Mikasa to enshrine the four deities: Takemikazuchi-no-Mikoto, Futsunushi-no-Mikoto, Ame-no-Uzume-no-Mikoto, and Tagorihime-no-Mikoto, thus beginning the history of Kasuga Taisha. Today, Kasuga Taisha holds about 2,200 Shinto ceremonies throughout the year. In particular, the “Kasuga Festival” held on March 13th is one of Japan’s three great imperial festivals and has continued for more than 1,200 years.

3. Todai-ji Temple Nara’s Todai-ji Temple has many world firsts, including the “Daibutsuden” (Great Buddha Hall) with over 1,200 years of history, which remains the world’s largest wooden building to this day. The “Rushana Buddha” statue housed in the Daibutsuden is 15 meters tall and is the world’s largest gilded bronze Buddha statue, also being the symbol of Nara. On the way to visit the Daibutsuden, you’ll first pass through the 25-meter-high “Nandaimon” (South Gate), known as Japan’s largest mountain gate!

Hakone

1. Hakone Pirate Ship The Hakone Pirate Ship is a sightseeing boat that sails on Lake Ashi, a scenic spot in Hakone. Characterized by bright colors and luxurious decorations, there are three ships in total: Royal Sun II, Victory, and Queen of Ashi. Each ship has a capacity of about 500 people, traveling back and forth between Hakone-machi Port, Moto-Hakone Port, and Tōgendai Port, with a one-way journey taking about 25-35 minutes. On good weather days, it’s recommended to go up to the open deck, enjoying the comfortable wind on your face while enjoying the seasonal scenery and mountain views.

2. Hakone Checkpoint A historical facility that completely reconstructs the Edo-era “checkpoint.” The checkpoint referred to a passage barrier. In 1869 (Meiji 2), with the complete abolition of checkpoints, the Hakone Checkpoint was also abolished. Later, based on excavations and historical records, the reconstruction and preparation of the main guardhouse and upper guard rest house of the checkpoint were completed in 2007 (Heisei 19) and opened to the public.

3. Stay in a Traditional Japanese Inn in Hakone Hakone is one of Japan’s top hot spring destinations, offering visitors various public and private baths. For centuries, the town’s hot springs have been known for their healing properties, attracting locals and tourists. Lake Yamanaka Onsen is one of the area’s most famous hot springs, offering several outdoor baths surrounded by natural rock formations and lush greenery. Many traditional Japanese inns (ryokan) in Hakone also offer private hot springs, allowing guests to enjoy bathing in their own rooms.

4. Hakone Forest Adventure Park Hakone Forest Adventure Park is a facility that preserves the forest’s original ecological environment and provides various outdoor activities. Both adults and children can enjoy Hakone’s nature here. The park also has recreational facilities such as “putt-putt golf,” “rock climbing walls,” and “trampolines.” There are also hot spring facilities next to the park, where you can go to soak in the hot springs and enjoy good food after getting tired from playing.

5. Hakone Mountain Railway Distributed along the line are Hakone’s main tourist attractions, making it an indispensable means of transportation for Hakone sightseeing. It consists of the “Hakone Tozan Railway” connecting Odawara Station to Gora Station, and the “Hakone Tozan Cable Car” connecting Gora Station to Sounzan Station. By transferring twice at Hakone-Yumoto and Gora stations, you can reach the final destination “Sounzan” station.

6. Hakone Aerial Tramway The Hakone Aerial Tramway is a cable car connecting “Sounzan” station and “Tōgendai” station, with a total length of about 4 kilometers. From the cable car, you can look down on Hakone’s mountain range, Lake Ashi, Mount Fuji, and Sagami Bay, experiencing about a 24-minute aerial journey through unlimited natural scenery. Along the route is Hakone’s top tourist attraction, “Owakudani.” When the cable car passes through, the 130-meter-deep valley extends below your feet, allowing you to see large amounts of white steam and sulfur flowing out of the valley, creating a scene full of impact.

For a comprehensive guide to Hakone’s attractions, onsen, and activities, check out our complete Hakone travel guide.

Hiroshima

1. Hiroshima Castle Hiroshima Castle was built in 1589 by Mōri Terumoto, one of the five great retainers of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Located in the center of Hiroshima city, it’s very convenient to access and is a famous tourist destination in Hiroshima. The castle is surrounded by many cherry blossom trees, and the beautiful scene of the castle and cherry blossoms attracts many flower-viewers every spring.

2. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum In 1945, Hiroshima became the first city in the world to suffer an atomic bomb attack. To convey to the world the tragic situation at that time and to work toward the abolition of nuclear weapons and world peace, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum was opened in 1955. The museum displays the belongings of atomic bomb victims and photos of the tragedy. The exhibition content focuses on the condition of each victim, leaving a deep impression. Although many exhibits are difficult to look at directly, we hope that everyone will view them with a heart praying for peace.

3. Shukkeien Garden Shukkeien is a historic Japanese garden built in the early 17th century. It’s known for its carefully designed landscape representing mountains, rivers, and valleys in a small space. The garden has winding paths, picturesque ponds, and small bridges, creating a peaceful environment. Visitors can enjoy different seasonal views: cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, colorful autumn foliage, and quiet winter beauty. The garden also has a tea house where visitors can experience traditional Japanese tea ceremony. Shukkeien is an excellent place for a walk, enjoying the scenery, and learning about Japanese gardening traditions. It provides a relaxing place away from the busy city atmosphere.

4. Mazda Museum The Mazda Museum in Hiroshima provides visitors with an in-depth look at the history and development of this famous Japanese car manufacturer. The museum covers Mazda’s journey from its early production of cork products to becoming a global automotive brand.

Visitors can take guided tours to learn about Mazda’s technological advances, displays of classic car models, and insights into future innovations. The museum also showcases many well-known Mazda vehicles, including rotary engine models and concept cars.

A highlight of the visit is the factory tour, where visitors can observe the assembly line process and learn how Mazda cars are made. Information displays explain Mazda’s vehicle design philosophy and engineering background.

5. Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki Village A famous food destination in Hiroshima, known for offering the city’s signature dish, Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki. This dish is a savory pancake cooked in layers with noodles, cabbage, batter, and various ingredients like pork, seafood, and cheese, all grilled on an iron plate. This multi-story building contains many small restaurants, each offering their own version of Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki. Visitors can watch skilled chefs prepare the food on open flames, creating an interactive dining experience.

6. Hiroshima Paper Crane Tower A composite building adjacent to the Atomic Bomb Dome, it’s a landmark of Hiroshima with unique scenery and experiences available only here. The open observation areas include the first-floor products hall and café, the 12th floor “Paper Crane Square,” “Paper Crane Wall,” and the rooftop observatory “Hiroshima Hill.” The rooftop observatory has a wooden platform that allows you to feel the breeze, creating a warm wooden atmosphere. Not only can you overlook the Peace Memorial Park and Atomic Bomb Dome, but on clear days, you can also see Mount Misen on Miyajima Island.

7. Atomic Bomb Dome The predecessor of the Atomic Bomb Dome was the “Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall,” designed by Czech architect Jan Letzel and completed on April 5, 1915. Due to its location only 160 meters from the explosion center, the entire building suffered near-destructive damage. To this day, the exposed rebar and ruins retain the original state after the atomic bombing, serving as a precious building that conveys the tragic history of the atomic bombing to future generations.

Sapporo

Although Sapporo doesn’t have many attractions, it’s personally my favorite city!

1. Mount Moiwa Night View In 2015, Sapporo pushed aside Hakodate to become one of Japan’s new three great night views, and the most representative night view spot in Sapporo is none other than “Mount Moiwa Observatory.” Take the sightseeing cable car to the summit and look down on Sapporo’s bustling streetlights in a spectacular 360-degree view; the Happiness Bell & love locks also add romance, making it a must-visit sacred place for lovers!

2. JR Tower Observatory T38 The highest observatory in Hokkaido - JR Tower Observatory T38, also selected among “Japan’s Top 10 Night Views” like Mount Moiwa, is located on the excellent site of Sapporo Station, with Sapporo’s gorgeous urban night view in full view.

The super spacious men’s restroom is also very popular, with the unique experience of enjoying the view while using the restroom - guys, don’t miss out!

3. Hokkaido University Hokkaido’s autumn must-visit spot - Hokkaido University, because the two rows of golden ginkgo trees are truly dreamy! Actually, Hokkaido University has many other beautiful sights besides the ginkgo trees, like the poplar tree avenue, Old Kuroda Hall, and Second Farm, which are beautiful even when not visiting in autumn. After touring the campus, go to the “Central Cafeteria” for a bowl of the student-favorite raw beef bowl, and be sure to try their milk ice cream, which has an extremely rich milk flavor. Experiencing student life at Hokkaido’s top university is super fun.

4. Hokkaido Shrine Hokkaido’s number one shrine - Hokkaido Shrine, in addition to being Sapporo’s center of faith, is also a famous spot for cherry blossom and autumn leaf viewing in Sapporo.

The limited Hello Kitty omamori & Rilakkuma ema at the shrine are incredibly cute; the sakura tea that blooms when hot water is poured - Sakura of the Shrine is also a must-buy.

There aren’t many historic sites in Sapporo, and most people wearing kimonos come here for photos. Girls who love photography might as well change into kimonos and come here to experience the beauty of Japanese traditional culture.

5. Shiroi Koibito Park (White Lover’s Park) A theme park based on Hokkaido’s most famous souvenir “Shiroi Koibito,” where you can visit the Shiroi Koibito production line, participate in the most popular cookie DIY experience, and enjoy many park-exclusive sweets & souvenirs. Both adults and children can have a great time.

Plus, the European-style garden landscape, rose garden, and winter-only Shiroi Koibito Park light festival will keep your camera shutter from stopping if you’re a photography enthusiast.

6. Sapporo Beer Museum Japan’s only beer museum, converted from a century-old brewery.

You can deeply understand the history of Japan’s representative beer “Sapporo Beer” and enjoy three classic Sapporo beer varieties at once; then go to the nearby “Sapporo Beer Garden” to enjoy unlimited grilled lamb & crab, perfect!

Ⅲ. Things to Do by Interest

Foodie Adventures & Nightlife

1. Tokyo Tsukiji Outer Market - You’ll find some of the freshest sushi available here. I’ve been multiple times and the seafood quality is consistently excellent. The early morning tuna auctions are interesting to observe - arrive before 6 AM for the best experience.

2. Osaka Dotonbori - This food street has a great atmosphere with many ramen shops, takoyaki stalls, and izakayas. The neon lights create a vibrant scene. I recommend trying the local okonomiyaki - it’s a regional specialty worth experiencing.

3. Osaka Kuromon Ichiba Market - Known as “Osaka’s Kitchen” with over 150 shops. You’ll discover fresh seasonal ingredients and local specialties. The vendors are knowledgeable and often offer samples - don’t miss the opportunity to try fresh oysters.

4. Fukuoka Nakasu Yatai - These riverside food stalls serve authentic Hakata ramen. I’ve enjoyed many evenings here with yakitori and oden. The intimate setting provides an authentic dining experience that’s different from regular restaurants.

5. Kyoto Nishiki Market - This 400-meter market offers Kyoto’s specialty ingredients and local products. You’ll find quality matcha and traditional items. The vendors are welcoming and often share information about their products.

Culture, History & Tradition

1. Kyoto Kiyomizu-dera - The wooden stage built without nails is an impressive architectural achievement. I’ve visited multiple times and appreciate the traditional Buddhist architecture. The views of Kyoto are nice, and you’ll spend time exploring the temple grounds.

2. Kyoto Fushimi Inari Taisha - The thousands of vermillion torii gates create a unique pathway. I’ve hiked through them several times and enjoy the peaceful mountain atmosphere. Plan 2-3 hours for the trails - the higher you go, the fewer crowds you’ll encounter.

3. Kyoto Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) - The gold-leaf covered building reflected in the pond is a classic sight. I’ve visited in different seasons and it maintains its appeal year-round. The surrounding gardens are well-maintained and peaceful.

4. Tokyo Senso-ji - As Tokyo’s oldest temple, it offers insight into traditional Buddhist culture. You can rent kimono nearby if you want a more traditional experience. The temple atmosphere is peaceful and different from the surrounding city.

5. Osaka Shitenno-ji - Built in 593, this temple represents ancient Japanese architecture. The Hosso school traditions are preserved here. The grounds provide a quiet space for reflection away from the busy city.

Anime, Gaming & Pop Culture

1. Tokyo Akihabara - This area has numerous anime shops, gaming stores, and merchandise outlets. You’ll find a wide selection of anime-related items. I’ve spent time exploring the multi-story stores and experiencing the themed cafes - it’s a hub for anime culture.

2. Tokyo Mitaka no Mori Ghibli Museum - This museum showcases Miyazaki’s animated works with displays of creative processes and original artwork. Seeing items from “My Neighbor Totoro” and “Spirited Away” is interesting for fans. The Cat Bus exhibit is fun for visitors.

3. Tokyo Fujiko F. Fujio Museum - Dedicated to the creators of Doraemon and other classic characters. You’ll see original manuscripts and learn about the creative process. It’s worth visiting if you’re interested in the history of Japanese manga.

4. Osaka Universal Studios Japan - Super Nintendo World offers an interactive experience based on Nintendo characters. The themed areas are well-designed and immersive. I recommend arriving early to make the most of your visit.

5. Ikebukuro Pokémon Center - This is the largest Pokémon Center in the Kanto region. You’ll find exclusive merchandise and themed food items. The multi-story layout means you can spend time exploring different levels and products.

Ⅳ. Things to Do by Traveler Type

Traveling with Kids (Family Fun)

1. Tokyo Disneyland / Tokyo DisneySea - If you’re traveling with kids, this is Japan’s most popular theme park experience. I’ve spent many hours here with my family and found the attractions, performances, and parades engaging for all ages. You’ll create memorable experiences that your children will remember.

2. Ueno Zoo - This is Japan’s oldest zoo and a solid choice for family visits. The giant pandas are popular with children, and there’s a good variety of animals to see. Your kids will enjoy the outdoor space and animal exhibits.

3. Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan - This aquarium features impressive marine life including whale sharks. It’s well-suited for families as children enjoy seeing the large sea creatures and learning about ocean habitats. The exhibits are educational and visually engaging.

4. Nara Park - Your kids will enjoy interacting with the friendly deer here. It’s perfect for family walks and photo opportunities, letting children experience nature up close. The deer are accustomed to visitors and generally gentle with families.

5. Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium - The large “Black Current Sea” tank with whale sharks and manta rays makes this a great educational experience. It’s suitable for families wanting to see impressive marine life in a well-designed facility.

Budget & Free Activities

1. Odori Park - This free park in Sapporo offers different seasonal landscapes. You’ll find various events throughout the year including festivals and exhibitions. It’s worth visiting to experience local activities without spending money.

2. Fushimi Inari Shrine - The famous torii gates provide a scenic hiking experience that’s free to visit. I’ve done this walk multiple times and found it peaceful and visually interesting. The mountain path offers natural scenery and photo opportunities.

3. Nara Park - This is free to visit and offers deer-watching and natural scenery for relaxing walks. I recommend spending a few hours here to enjoy the open space and friendly deer interactions. It’s a pleasant way to spend time outdoors.

4. Todai-ji Temple - While the Great Buddha Hall requires payment, the surrounding temple area is free to explore. You can view the temple architecture and grounds without entry fees. It’s worth visiting to see the historic structures from the outside.

5. Otaru Canal - Walking along the canal is completely free and offers scenic views both day and night. The waterfront area provides a pleasant walking experience with attractive architecture and lighting. It’s a relaxing place for evening strolls.

Ⅴ. Things to Do by Season: Year-Round Planning

A. Spring (March - May)

Where are the best spots to see cherry blossoms?

1. Ueno Park Located in Tokyo, this is one of Japan’s most famous cherry blossom viewing spots, with over 1,000 cherry trees creating a pink cherry blossom tunnel in spring. I’ve visited during cherry blossom season and found the atmosphere delightful.

2. Mount Yoshino Located in Nara, this is Japan’s number one cherry blossom viewing destination, with about 30,000 cherry trees. From the foot of the mountain to the summit, they bloom in sequence, creating a beautiful cherry blossom landscape.

3. Shinjuku Gyoen Located in Tokyo, this is a famous cherry blossom viewing spot with rich varieties of cherry blossoms and a long flowering period of about one month, allowing you to enjoy different varieties. You’ll want to spend a full day here to see all the different types.

4. Maruyama Park Located in Kyoto, this is Kyoto’s most popular cherry blossom viewing spot. At night, there’s also lighting, allowing you to experience the beauty of night cherry blossoms.

5. Matsumae Park Located in Hokkaido, this is Hokkaido’s most famous cherry blossom viewing spot with about 10,000 cherry trees, making it Japan’s northernmost cherry blossom viewing destination. The variety of cherry blossoms here is impressive.

B. Summer (June - August)

1. Furano & Biei Located in Hokkaido, famous for lavender fields and colorful flower fields. July is the peak season for lavender, with beautiful purple flower fields.

2. Sumida River Fireworks Festival Located in Tokyo, this is one of Japan’s largest fireworks festivals, attracting hundreds of thousands of viewers every summer.

3. Gion Matsuri Located in Kyoto, this is one of Japan’s three great festivals, held in July, with luxurious float processions and other traditional activities. I’ve experienced this festival and it’s absolutely incredible!

4. Sumida River Located in Tokyo, in summer you can take a houseboat on the Sumida River to enjoy fireworks, which is a summer-only romantic experience. It’s definitely something special you won’t find anywhere else!

5. Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium Located in Okinawa, it’s a great place to escape the heat in summer, where you can enjoy whale sharks and manta rays and other marine life.

C. Autumn (September - November)

1. Tofuku-ji Temple Located in Kyoto, famous for autumn red leaves. From the high main hall, you can overlook the mountain of red leaves, making it an excellent maple viewing spot.

2. Daisetsuzan National Park So-Un-Kyo Located in Hokkaido, maple leaves begin to change color from mid-September, making it one of the earliest places to see autumn leaves in Hokkaido.

3. Arashiyama Located in Kyoto, autumn Arashiyama is famous for red leaves, and the maple scenery around Togetsukyo Bridge is especially charming.

4. Mt. Takao Located in Tokyo, late October to early November is the best time for maple viewing, with maple leaves covering both sides of the mountain path.

5. Mt. Hakodate Located in Hakodate, in autumn you can enjoy layered maple scenery, and the night view of Hakodate Mountain is especially beautiful.

D. Winter (December - February)

1. Niseko Ski Resort Located in Hokkaido, famous for its high-quality powder snow, it’s a world-class ski resort suitable for skiers of all levels.

2. Toya Lake Ice Drift Located in Hokkaido, in winter the lake surface freezes, and you can experience icebreaker boat and other winter-only activities.

3. Hakodate Mountain Night View Located in Hakodate, known as one of the world’s three great night views, the winter snow scene and night view complement each other beautifully.

4. Noboribetsu Hell Valley Located in Hokkaido, winter hot springs and geothermal landscapes form a unique contrast, allowing you to experience snow bathing.

5. Otaru Snow Light Path Located in Otaru, a winter event held every February, with thousands of snow lights lighting up both sides of the canal, creating a romantic atmosphere. The magical lighting display is absolutely enchanting!

These spots cover the seasonal characteristics of different regions of Japan. Whether it’s cherry blossom viewing in spring, festival participation in summer, maple viewing in autumn, or skiing in winter, you can find suitable activities for every season.

FAQ

Final Thoughts

Japan truly offers an incredible variety and depth of experiences that you simply won’t find anywhere else! Now that you have this comprehensive guide, it’s time to start planning your trip to Japan. Consider the following next steps to make your journey as smooth as possible:

Travel Essentials: Don’t forget to prepare essential items like portable Wi-Fi or SIM cards for staying connected during your trip. I absolutely recommend having internet access to navigate and translate ready before your trip!

Transportation: Book the JR Pass or other rail passes online that can save you money on transportation throughout Japan. These passes are incredibly valuable and will make your travel so much easier!

Booking Platform: Consider using activity booking platforms to secure your spots for popular attractions and experiences in advance. Many of Japan’s most popular attractions fill up quickly, so booking ahead is a smart move!

Can’t wait to see your trip in Japan, feel free to share your story with us!

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