Everyone and their mom, grandma, great uncle’s cousin-in-law loves Japan. I, too, have fallen victim to its charms. Having been 10+ times, I’ve put together the ultimate Japan bucket list for you!

This post contains affiliate links, from which I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your kind support!

No time to read? Pin this Japan travel guide for later!

Japan Bucket List Activities

Strolling through historic temples in a traditional kimono, chasing cherry blossoms across the country, watching a sumo match, dining at a robot restaurant… The list of unique things to do in Japan never ends.

Since we all have different interests and traveling styles, I am breaking down top Japan must-sees by popularity, seasonality, and geography*.

*For those visiting Japan for the first time, you will likely explore Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and their surrounding areas. These are the main destinations we will focus on today.

Iconic Experiences in Japan

1. Rent a kimono.

The word kimono originally meant “a thing to wear.”

Nowadays, it is used to describe traditional clothes worn for summer festivals and special occasions like coming of age ceremonies, graduations, and weddings.

And before you ask… No, it’s not cultural appropriation for foreigners to rent and wear one. Locals love when tourists appreciate their culture. More importantly, you are supporting Japan’s kimono industry!

Men, women, and children can all participate. Rental shops are also found throughout the country in Tokyo and Kyoto.

You get dressed by a professional kitsukeshi and some shops provide hair + makeup services as well. If you’re feeling fancy, you can even hire a photographer.

Tip: Be prepared to get asked for a ton of photos! This literally always happens whenever I wear a kimono in Japan. I’ve even gotten followed and photographed without permission, so prep yourself for the possibility of unpleasant encounters. Because yes, people sadly do act like clowns.

2. Ride the Shinkansen bullet train.

The Shinkansen can travel as fast as 320 kilometers per hour, and is a fantastic way to get around.

If you plan on exploring multiple destinations, consider getting a Japan Rail Pass. But first, use an online calculator to determine the cost of your journey.

Depending on how often you’ll be taking the Shinkansen, it may or may not be worth your bang for the buck.

Taking the Hello Kitty bullet train is another one of my favorite Japan things to do.

This Sanyo Shinkansen line connects Osaka to Fukuoka. It is covered by the JR Pass or you can purchase single tickets. Just remember to check its schedule first.

Apart from these two Japan must-do’s, don’t forget to try ekiben.

Eki in English means train station. Bento (ben) refers to a lunchbox or a packaged meal of some sort. As its name suggests, ekiben is a delicious treat sold specifically at train stations and on trains.

While eating is taboo on public transports, the Shinkansen is an exception!

3. Marvel at the beauty of Mt. Fuji.

Mount Fuji is, without a doubt, one of the best things to see in Japan.

Because it is notorious for being shy and hiding behind clouds, clear skies from November to February offer optimal views.

Even though Fuji-san can be seen from Tokyo, the best places to visit in Japan for admiring it up close are

• Fujikawaguchiko/Fujiyoshida
• Shizuoka
• Hakone
• Kamakura/Enoshima

If you have limited time, good news! You can see Mt. Fuji from the Shinkansen!

Tip: For journeys from Tokyo to Kyoto/Osaka, sit on the right (seat A for window, B for middle, or C for aisle). For Kyoto/Osaka to Tokyo, take the left D or E seat.

4. Bathe in a natural hot spring.

Soaking in an onsen (hot spring) is a must-do in Japan.

Public bath houses are enjoyed completely nude, and men and women are typically separated. (Although rare, there are mixed gender pools.)

Tip: Book a private onsen if you’re shy or have tattoos*.

*Tattoos are traditionally associated with yakuza gangsters, hence why many establishments do not accept customers with ink. (Some may allow entry if you cover up. I’d email and ask in case.)

5. Better yet, stay at an onsen ryokan!

Whether you’re pooped out from endless walking and exploring, or you’re looking to escape the bustling city life, spending the night in an onsen town is one of the best things to do in Japan.

Hakone, Kusatsu, Kinosaki, and Beppu are trendy weekend getaways.

Hotels here are equipped with onsen facilities that all guests can access. Some offer private baths you can book for an additional fee while others have rooms with built-in onsen pools.

Dinner and breakfast are usually included, with dinner being a multi-course kaiseki meal featuring seasonal ingredients from the surrounding regions.

Other than that, depending on the area and your hotel, you may be able to onsen hop around nearby bathhouses free of charge.

Cultural Must-Dos in Japan

6. Attend a tea ceremony.

Chado, or the way of tea, was first practiced during the Kamakura period.

When China initially introduced tea to Japan, it was solely used for medicinal purposes. Over time, chado gained popularity among nobles, and was eventually adopted by commoners.

Today, it is embraced as a hobby.

Ceremonies take place in a traditional tearoom with tatami floor.

Formal ones last several hours, beginning with a multi-course kaiseki meal, followed by a bowl of thick tea, and then a bowl of thin tea.

Most ceremonies now are shorter, prioritizing the enjoyment of thin tea alongside Japanese sweets called wagashi.

7. Watch a sumo match.

Sumo wrestling is thought to have originated from Shinto rituals performed to appease the gods in hopes of ensuring a good harvest. It has since become a national sport, and most certainly deserves a spot on your Japan bucket list.

Official tournaments take place six times a year. Tickets can be purchased online or at the stadium on the day of.

8. Get your fortune told by an omikuji.

Omikuji is a Japanese fortune written on a piece of paper.

It can be found at shrines and temples, and is fun to read whether you are superstitious or not.

Tip: If you pick out a bad one, remember to tie it to the pine tree or metal wire rack specifically dedicated for bad fortunes.

9. Spend the night in a temple.

Shukubo is a remote temple lodging that provides pilgrims with overnight accommodation and food.

Tourists are welcome and you can partake in various activities, such as morning prayers, meditation, shakyo sutra copying, and  private temple tours.

Tip: Koyasan, or Mount Koya, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that can be reached from Kyoto or Osaka. It has more than 1,200 years of history, and is one of the most sacred places to go in Japan for shukubo.

Seasonal Things to See in Japan

10. Enjoy hanami like a local.

Hana means flower. Mi means to look/see. Together, hanami refers to the tradition of cherry blossom viewing.

To celebrate spring, many convenience stores, beverage shops, and restaurants launch cherry blossom-flavored food + drinks, which often become crowd favorites at hanami picnics.

Of course, flower viewing can be as simple as taking a walk at the park or rowing a boat down the Chidorigafuchi Moat. Regardless of which, you need to add this to your Japan bucket list!

Tip: Sakura season is typically around late March to early April. Plan your visit accordingly.

11. Celebrate spring at the Fuji Shibazakura Festival.

Fuji Shibazakura Festival is an annual flower festival that takes place mid-April to the end of May in Fujikawaguchiko near the base of Mount Fuji.

The word shibazakura translates into “lawn cherry,” which perfectly depicts the vivid pink, purple, and white flower carpets here.

Even though Shibazakura Takinoue Park in Hokkaido is much bigger in size, you really can’t beat having Mt. Fuji as your backdrop.

12. Get lost in a sea of nemophila at Hitachi Seaside Park.

Hitachi Seaside Park is located in Ibaraki about two to three hours outside of Tokyo.

Some seasonal displays include

• Narcissuses (March to April)
• Tulips (April)
• Nemophila (mid-April to early May)
• Roses (May, June, October, and November)
• Kochias
  • Green from mid-July to September
  • Red/golden yellow from mid-September to early October

The Blue nemophila flowers at Miharashi Hill, in particular, had been on my Japan travel bucket list for as long as I could remember.

At long last, I was able to tick it off in 2023.

Was it everything I thought it would be? Yes, absolutely! Although I would’ve enjoyed it a lot more had I not gone during Golden Week*. (Don’t let my photo fool you. It’s all Photoshop, hah!)

Learn from my mistake and opt for a weekday/non-holiday for less crowds.

*Note: Golden Week is a series of public holidays starting from around April 29th to May 5th. In my very honest opinion, this is the worst time to visit Japan.

13. Take a stroll in a wisteria garden.

Calling all Demon Slayer fans!!~ If you plan on visiting Hitachi Seaside Park, don’t forget to hop on over to the nearby Ashikaga Flower Park.

Similar to Hitachi, Ashikaga is open year-round.

There are eight different floral displays throughout the year, with wisteria being what it is most known for. (These purple flowers tend to bloom from late April to early or mid-May.)

Tip: I suggest going in the afternoon. That way, you can stay until evening time for the night illumination. And don’t worry, they got food inside!

Kawachi Fujien is another beautiful garden that opens twice a year in Fukuoka. (Once during wisteria season and again later in the fall.)

Due to Kyushu’s warmer weather, wisterias here can bloom as early as mid-April. I’d check the garden’s opening dates and purchase tickets in advance.

14. Attend a summer matsuri.

Matsuri is the Japanese word for festival.

Summer is festival season and this is when Shinto gods are carried through towns in palanquins called mikoshi. (This is the only time a god will ever leave a shrine.)

There is music and dancing involved, as well as food and fireworks. Talk about one of the most unique experiences in Japan. Do not miss it!

15. Watch a fireworks show—in a yukata.

Firework festivals take place throughout the year.

Summer is obviously the warmest time to wear a yukata, a thinner, unlined kimono. Locals often dress up and firework dates are some of the most anticipated events of the season.

If crowds aren’t your thing, Pearl Star Hotel Atami* has front row seats to the Atami Marine Sea Fireworks Festival.

*I stayed with them during off-peak season. That said, I will report back if and when I do get to watch the fireworks show here!

16. Climb Mt. Fuji.

This one’s not for the faint of heart – literally.

Official climbing season starts from early July to mid-September. (Different trails have different start dates and these all vary from year to year. Climbing during off-season is strongly discouraged!!!)

The four main trails are

• Yoshida Trail
  • Easiest one of the four
  • You can see sunrise from here
• Fujinomiya Trail
  • Shortest route for reaching the summit
• Subashiri Trail
  • This route takes you through a shaded forest up to the seventh station
• Gotemba Trail
  • Longest way

Mt. Fuji is divided into ten stations. The first station is at the foot of the mountain and the tenth is all the way up at the summit.

Tip: The fifth station* is the closest you can get to by car. Most climbers start here regardless of which route they choose.

*To clarify, every trail has its own fifth station. You can start hiking from the first station. This simply adds an additional three to five hours to your journey.

17. Chase fall foliage across the country.

Apart from Hokkaido which starts changing colors from mid-September to October, fall in Japan generally arrives much later, peaking between October and November, and as late as December in more southern areas.

Top things to see in Japan include

• Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden (Tokyo)
• Meiji Jingu Gaien (Tokyo)
• Rikugien Garden (Tokyo)
• Lake Kawaguchiko (Fujikawaguchiko)
• Arakurayama Sengen Park (Fujiyoshida)
• Tofuku-ji Temple (Kyoto)
• Arahiyama (Kyoto)
• Enkoji Temple (Kyoto)
• Ruriko-in Temple (Kyoto)
• Osaka Castle (Osaka)
• Nara Park (Nara)

18. Ski or snowboard down the slopes of Niseko.

Skiing in Japan is amazing, especially in Niseko.

Because of its geographical location, this snow resort town on the island of Hokkaido gets phenomenal, dry, champagne powder snow – aka JAPOW (Japan Powder).

Its extensive terrain caters to all levels, from gentle slopes for beginners to challenging backcountry runs for the more adventurous. Plus, there are tons of other activities to try too!

Tokyo Bucket List

19. See the viral teamLab exhibitions.

Unless you live under a rock, you’ve probably come across teamLab’s digital art exhibits at some point.

They currently have two main exhibitions in Tokyo: teamLab Planets (left) and teamLab Borderless (right).

The former is a permanent collection that reopened in Azabudai Hills on February 9th of 2024, whereas the latter will run until the end of 2027.

teamLab Borderless is the bigger one of the two and you can easily spend a few hours here, more if you enjoy taking pictures.

If you only have time for one, however, I definitely recommend teamLab Planets. It feels more immersive and you get to walk through water and oversized bean bags. It’s just loads of fun.

Tip: Always book the earliest time slot! In addition to avoiding crowds (and stinky feet), the overall ambiance is much more pleasant.

20. Snap a photo in front of Tokyo Tower.

Inspired by the French Eiffel Tower, Tokyo Tower is a symbol of Japan’s post-war renaissance and modernity.

It is one of the most famous landmarks in Japan and used to be the tallest tower in the country before the construction of Tokyo Skytree.

There’s no shortage of picturesque Instagram spots, but staying at a Tokyo Tower hotel is hands down one of the most unique experiences in Tokyo. I mean, imagine waking up to the views!!!

Be sure to add these stunning hotels to your Japan bucket list:

• Janu Tokyo
  • Sister hotel of Aman
  • Brand new, recently opened in March of 2024
• The Tokyo EDITION, Toranomon
  • Don’t confuse it with their Ginza property
• Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills
• The Prince Park Tower Tokyo
  • My boyfriend and I stayed in the “Panoramic Corner King Room Non-Smoking Tokyo Tower.”

21. Brave the world’s busiest intersection at Shibuya Crossing.

More than two million people cross Shibuya every day.

This spectacle of organized chaos encapsulates the pulsating heart of Tokyo’s urban life. But introverts could never, am I right? XDD

22. Watch the sun set from Shibuya Sky.

Shibuya Sky is a 360° open-air observation deck at Shibuya Scramble Square.

It opened in November of 2019 and has been one of the hottest tourist attractions in Japan ever since.

Tickets are sold by time slots. They are cheaper online and are available for purchase up to four weeks in advance. (They sell out fast, but Klook usually has extras.)

Tip: Go an hour and a half to two hours before sunset. You’ll get to see daytime views, sunset, and Tokyo’s shimmering night sky. Oh and it takes time to check-in, store your bag in a locker, line up for photos, etc. etc. Don’t rush your visit.

23. Tour Tokyo’s oldest temple and eat your way around Asakusa.

Of all the places to visit in Japan for first-timers, Asakusa is an absolute must.

This vibrant neighborhood is a beautiful blend of historic charms and contemporary allure.

At the heart of it lies Senso-ji, Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple. Its entrance is marked by a large red chochin lantern at Kaminarimon, followed by the lively streets of Nakamise-dori.

Here you can find a kaleidoscope of traditional shops and delicious eateries, such as

• Asakusa Kagetsudo (they specialize in cream-filled melon pan/melon bread)
  • Kagetsudo Kaminarimon is another nearby branch
• Kamejuu (dorayaki – Japanese red bean pancake)
• HATCOFFEE LATTEART STAND (3D latte)
  • Takeouts only
  • HATCOFFEE a few blocks down is a sit-down cafe
• Imo Pippi (sweet potato ice cream and crème brûlée)
• Suzukien Asakusa (matcha gelato)
  • They have seven different levels of intensity
• Mitsuya (shiratama dango mochi balls)
• Asakusa Unana (unagi onigiri rice balls)
• Asakusa Menchi (menchi katsu – minced meat pie)
• Namiki Yabusoba (soba noodles)

Chacha Futatsume’s matcha mont blonc is all over Instagram, but it’s apparently no good. I thought it was a waste of stomach space, so I skipped it. If you’ve tried it, share your thoughts in the comments!

24. Sample fresh seafood at Tsukiji Outer Market.

The original Tsukiji Fish Market’s wholesale business was taken over by Toyosu Market in 2018. If you can secure lottery tickets for Toyosu’s tuna auction, by all means, go for it. If not, you can still eat your weight in seafood at the Tsukiji Outer Market.

As one of the busiest Japan attractions, queues here can be rather long. Not to mention, the food is sometimes overpriced.

My top eats are

• Tsukiji Unitora Nakadori (seafood don)
  • You need to wake up ultra early for this one, otherwise you’re stuck in line waiting for hours
• Sushizanmai Main Branch
  • They have multiple locations; this one is open 24/7
• Yamacho* (fluffy egg on a stick)
• Solatsuki (ichigo strawberry treats)

*All the negative Google reviews complaining about their tamagoyaki being sweet clearly don’t understand that it is supposed to be sweet because it’s made with mirin. It’s so good tho! Promise me you’ll try it with an open mind!

25. Make a wish at Meiji Jingu.

Meiji Jingu is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken.

Its surrounding forest is made up of over 100,000 trees that were donated from across the country and planted by volunteers. Not only does it provide a scenic change of pace from the city, it’s a tranquil oasis for escaping the summer heat.

In Japan, it’s typical to wish for good health, happiness in the family, or success in school/at work. It is believed that if you write your wish down on an ema, the gods will grant your desires.

Give it a try next time!

26. Reconnect with nature at Shinjuku Gyoen.

Among top things to do in Japan, Shinjuku Gyoen is a delight no matter the season.

The garden originally belonged to Lord Naito of the Edo era and was nearly destroyed during World War II. After reconstruction, it reopened as a public park in 1949.

Whether you’re captivated by spring’s pink cherry blossom hues or the fiery foliage of autumn, this 144-acre national treasure is ideal for afternoon promenades and weekend picnics.

27. Uncover the Wizarding World at Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo.

This indoor Harry Potter attraction is one of the newer cool things in Japan.

You get a behind-the-scenes peek at all the filmmaking magic, and interact with VFX sets like Broomstick Flying.

I sadly haven’t gotten to this Japan bucket list item yet. (I’ve been to the London one and have heard that the Tokyo version is bigger and more hands-on.) I’ll update this travel guide for Japan if and when I do go.

Tip: Tickets are 6,500 yen (~$40 USD/~$55 CAD) and must be purchased in advance.

28. Enjoy the rides at Tokyo Disneyland/DisneySea.

Harry Potter not your cup of tea?  Soar above Neverland with Peter Pan and discover the depths of the ocean with Ariel instead.

Now despite their names, Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea are technically located in Urayasu, not Tokyo.

Tip: You can either book a shuttle bus from Shinjuku or spend the night at Tokyo Disneyland Hotel. If you want to hit up both parks, the latter is the more suitable option.

29. Indulge in your otaku fantasies at Akihabara.

Manga and anime culture have become more and more socially accepted. In fact, it’s almost cool to be discussing the latest One Piece or Jujutsu Kaisen arc with friends.

From collecting merch at Animate Akihabara and vintage shopping at Mandarake Complex or Super Potato to crane games at GiGO and gachapon hunting at Akihabara Gachapon Kaikan, this otaku paradise has everything for your latest obsession.

Even if you’re not about simping over 2D characters, Akihabara is an electric town where you can browse the newest gadgets at Yodobashi Akiba and BicCamera AKIBA.

30. Meet fellow petrolheads at the famous Daikoku car meet.

One of the cool things to do in Japan is to go to a car meet.

The one at Daikoku Parking Area is the ultimate place for spotting both classic and rare JDM vehicles. (Although it’s actually in Yokohama, it’s not too far a drive.)

Tip: The parking lot isn’t accessible by foot, which is why I advise you to join a tour from Tokyo if you don’t want to rent a car.

31. Experience nightlife at Golden Gai & Omoide Yokocho.

Golden Gai is a collection of ~200 alleyway bars tucked away in the Kabukicho district of Shinjuku.

The majority have a non-negotiable cover charge, and some unfortunately only serve regulars. (Look out for the “no foreigners” sign.) While language barrier might be an issue, the best ice breaker is to buy the owner or bartender (or everyone) a drink.

Omoide Yokocho, or Memory Lane, is a couple blocks down with similar vibes.

Historically speaking, this was where people went for hard-to-obtain food, drinks, and various daily necessities after WWII. Today, you can find Showa era-esque food stalls offering yakitori skewers and other izakaya eats. It’s the perfect round two spot after drinking in Golden Gai!

More Tokyo activities to add to your Japan bucket list…

Without making this guide insanely long, I also recommend the following:

• Explore the Imperial Palace
• Take in the capital’s best views at Tokyo Skytree or Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
• Picnic at Ueno Park or Yoyogi Park
• Discover kawaii culture at Harajuku
• See Gotoku-ji’s maneki neko
• Dine at a themed cafe
  • E.g. Pokémon Café, Miffy café tokyo, and Vampire Café
• Treat yourself to an omakase dinner
  • E.g. Sushi Tatsuya (aka Sushi Yoshikawatatsuya Nakameguro), Azabu kumasan (Wagyu beef), and Katsukani Ryori Ginza Kitafuku (crab)
  • Not dinner, but Koffee Mameya Kakeru does an incredible coffee omakase
• Sample izakaya food at Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu where Kill Bill was filmed
• Hike through torii gates of Hie Shrine or Nezu Shrine
  • If you don’t have time for Kyoto, these are smaller replicas of Fushimi Inari Taisha.

Kyoto, Japan To-Do List

32. Hike through 10,000 torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha.

Fushimi Inari Taisha is the head shrine of Inari—the Shinto god of rice. It is most recognized for its bright colored torii gates, which can take an hour and a half to three hours to hike through.

Tip: The higher you go, the less busy it is. There is a hidden bamboo forest here too if you know where to look 😉

33. Take a walk down Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.

A highlight among Japan tourist attractions is the lush bamboo forest in Kyoto.

You can often find visitors dressed in kimonos here and it really does make for a gorgeous photoshoot backdrop.

Tip: Stop by Okochi Sanso Villa for an epic view overlooking the city. (Admission includes matcha tea and wagashi in the villa’s teahouse.)

34. See the golden Kinkaku-ji.

Kinkaku-ji, otherwise known as Golden Pavilion, is a Buddhist temple that was initially built as a retirement villa for shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu.

Its top two floors are adorned in gold leaf and each floor features a different architectural style.

35. Take in the views at Kiyomizu-dera.

With over 1,200 years of history, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a Buddhist temple with stellar views of Kyoto’s cityscapes.

Its main hall was built without using any nails and its wooden stage is one of the most photographed Japanese tourist attractions during spring and autumn when colors explode from pink cherry blossoms and amber fall foliage.

36. Explore Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka by foot.

Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka are stone-paved pedestrian streets lined with traditional wooden machiya houses that teleport you back to the Edo period.

As you wander along these narrow cobblestone pathways, you’ll encounter quaint tea houses, artisanal shops, and hidden temples.

Tip: Hanamikoji is another pedestrian street worth adding to your Japan bucket list.

37. Watch a geisha performance.

A geisha is a professional entertainer who is highly trained in traditional music, singing, and dancing. A maiko, on the other hand, is an apprentice geisha.

Apart from skill level, the main differences between the two are their age and makeup/clothes. (A maiko performance tends to be cheaper.)

Geisha photography has been banned since November 2019 and is illegal without a permit.

Additionally, as of April 2024, certain parts of Gion have been closed off to foreigners, as to prevent tourists from harassing these working locals.

Having said that, the easiest way to spot a geisha or maiko is to attend a private dinner show or guided tour. Besides getting to experience the performance of your lifetime, you can learn about the history and lifestyle of what it means to be a professional entertainer.

38. Take a day trip to Kibune.

Nestled in the northern mountains of Kyoto, Kibune is a small village offering a serene escape from the sweltering summer heat.

It is home to Kifune Shrine, a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of water and rain. Unlike other shrines, the omikuji here floats on water and is called a mizuura mikuji.

And if you get hungry, the nagashi somen at Hirobun* is one of the best things in Japan. These are thin somen noodles that flow down a bamboo chute in cold water. You catch them with chopsticks and they help cool your body down in the hotter months.

*They are only open from May to September. Check their hours ahead of time!

Other Kyoto Landmarks & Museums to See

• Nijo Castle
• Togetsukyo Bridge
• Nishiki Market
• Nidec Kyoto Tower
• Kyoto Railway Museum
• Nanzen-ji
• SAMURAI NINJA MUSEUM KYOTO With Experience
• Kyoto Botanical Gardens

Osaka Bucket List for Japan

39. Learn about the history of Osaka Castle.

Osaka Castle is a testament to Japan’s rich history and cultural heritage.

It was built by feudal warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi as the center of a new, unified Japan. After his death, shogunate Tokugawa Ieyasu’s troops attacked and destroyed said castle, terminating the Toyotomi lineage in 1615.

While the new shogun Tokugawa Hidetada later attempted to reconstruct the castle, lightening struck in 1660 thus setting the castle on fire. As a result, this Kansai landmark has been rebuilt several times and the interior now consists entirely of a modern museum filled with important artifacts on display.

40. Pray for good luck at Osaka’s lion head shrine and Daruma temple.

The Namba Yasaka Shrine (left) and Katsuo-ji temple (right) are some of the most unique things in Japan.

The former is a Shinto shrine featuring a 12-meter high lion head that swallows evil spirits to bring good fortune.

The latter is a Buddhist temple that houses hundreds of Daruma dolls, symbolic of good luck. Many visitors come before exams or competitions to seek blessing and victory, and some pray to overcome illnesses or to get rid of bad juju.

If things haven’t been going your way recently, consider a visit to either two.

41. Take a picture with the iconic Glico Running Man.

Did you really visit Osaka if you didn’t snap a #vacationgram in front of the Dotonbori Glico Sign?

This neon sign is an advertisement for Glico, Japan’s multinational food processing company known for making Pocky sticks.

In 1922, founder Ri-ichi Ezaki created a snack that supposedly gives you energy to run 300 meters. A running man was, therefore, chosen as Glico’s mascot and has since dominated the billboards of Dotonbori.

42. Scream your heart out at Universal Studios.

Universal Studios Japan is a thrilling playground for movie buffs and adventure seekers.

From dreamy movie sets to adrenaline-pumping rides, this immersive experience transports you into the realms of imagination and wonder.

What to Do in Nara

43. Feed a deer at Nara Park.

One of the most fun things to do in Japan is to feed a deer in Nara.

Over 1,000 deer roam freely around Nara Park, and these sacred creatures are considered messengers of the gods.

Deer senbei, or deer crackers, can be purchased for ~150 yen* (~$1).

Before feeding the deer, remember to hold your crackers up high. This lets them know that it’s feeding time and the deer will bow down politely. (Most are docile, but some are aggressive and can bite, kick, or headbutt you. Be careful!)

Tip: Don’t leave without seeing Todai-ji.

*This is the price I paid in 2015. It might have risen, but it shouldn’t cost you an arm and a leg.

44. Observe how mochi is made at Nakatanidou.

Nakatanidou is a famous mochi shop known for its yomogi green mugwort-flavored mochi.

These mochi are made by pounding sticky rice with big wooden hammers. This method is called mochitsuki, and even though there isn’t a set schedule for this spectacle, you can expect it to take place 10 to 15 times a day, and up to 30 times on weekends.

Other Bucket List Things to Do in Japan

45. Admire Hayao Miyazaki’s work at the Ghibli Museum.

My Neighbor Totoro, Grave of the Fireflies, Kiki’s Delivery Service, Porco Rosso, Pom Poko, Whisper of the Heart, Princess Mononoke, Spirited Away, Howl’s Moving Castle… These are a few classic animated films that I grew up watching.

If you’re a major Hayao Miyazaki fan like me, a visit to the Ghibli Museum is one of the must-do things in Japan.

The museum itself is designed in the style of Studio Ghibli’s films.

The first floor is dedicated to the history and animation techniques of the studio, whereas the second floor houses temporary exhibitions. There is a cafe and gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs for memory, as pictures are not allowed inside.

Tip: Due to the size of the museum, tickets are limited and must be purchased in advance. Online tickets go on sale at 10:00AM (Japan time) on the 10th of each month. If you’re unable to secure tickets, opt for a whimsical dining experience at Corn Barley (in Tokyo) or Moricafe Kodama (in Nagoya).

46. Zoom down the streets of Japan in a go-kart.

This is one of the more controversial must do’s in Japan. However, I’m including it so that you can make an informed decision—especially because I know you’ll definitely see it elsewhere on the Internet.

When it comes to go-kart tours, Street Kart is the OG. (My boyfriend and I signed up for their one-hour tour around Akihabara, Tokyo Station, and Ginza.)

You must have an international driving permit to participate and you are guided by a tour guide the entire time to make sure that you follow all traffic regulations. 

So why exactly is this problematic?????

When I came home and shared this to Instagram, someone let me know that locals actually hate when tourists do this.

Judging from the hundreds of thousands of social media posts + reviews, go-karting clearly isn’t illegal hence why I was unaware of this and didn’t think twice about signing up. Now that I’ve done my research, I can see why this could be loud, annoying, and potentially dangerous.

You can, of course, argue that locals hate all tourists or that they simply dislike any type of tourist behavior, rude or not. I’m not going to tell you what you should or should not do, but it’s something to think about if you have this on your Japan bucket list.

47. Let your inner child roam free at a Trick Art Museum.

Forget taking boring pictures like everyone else. Step up your IG game at one of 18 Trick Art Museums.

They have example photos on the wall that you can reference. Plus, their staff are super helpful with pictures.

Whether you come alone or with friends and family, it’s a fantastic opportunity to get creative and make unforgettable memories.

48. Go gachapon hunting and win an arcade game.

Gachapon and arcade games are quintessential Japan to-do list items.

Gachapon are vending machines that spit out randomized capsule toys. These line the streets of Japan, tempting passersby with their colorful displays and enticing prizes, such as miniature figurines, quirky gadgets, and cute accessories. If you wish to try your luck, Sunshine City in Ikebukuro has 3,000 machines.

Claw machines and arcade games like Taiko Drum Master are popular as well. TAITO STATION is one of Japan’s leading arcade center chains and you can find a branch pretty much everywhere.

49. Shop ’til you drop.

Despite not being big on retail therapy when I travel, I always make sure to let loose and go crazy in Japan.

For clothes and accessories in Tokyo, I recommend

• Ginza
  • Home to luxury brands + vintage shops
    • E.g. BRAND OFF, KOMEHYO, CO&CO, and ALLU
  • UNIQLO and MUJI’s flagship stores are stationed here
• Shinjuku/Shibuya
  • You can find lots of trendy local brands at LUMINE EST Shinjuku + Shibuya PARCO
    • E.g. SHIPS (unisex clothing), SNIDEL (women’s fashion), LILY BROWN (women’s fashion), ORiental TRaffic (women’s shoes), and CA4LA (unisex hats)
  • JINS in Shibuya
    • I recently got a pair of prescription glasses here for a little over 9,000 yen (~60 USD/~$80 CAD)
    • My optometrist checked them after and he approves!
• Daikanyama (I call this the hipster neighborhood)
  • It’s technically in Shibuya, but it deserves its own bullet point
  • Many posh and high-end boutiques
  • You can find men’s (streetwear) brands like
    • PARADISE TOKYO / WACKO MARIA
    • Visvim
  • THE NORTH FACE has a sub-label called PURPLE LABEL that is sold specifically at Nanamica Daikanyama
  • Maison Kitsuné Daikanyama Store (unisex clothing) and L’Officine Universelle Buly Daikanyama (fragrances) are also quite well-known
  • Don’t forget to browse the nearby Traveler’s Factory Nakameguro for all your stationery needs
• Shimokitazawa
  • Great for thrift shopping and vintage finds

For skincare and cosmetics, head to

• @cosme
• Matsumoto Kiyoshi
• Mitsukoshi
• Don Quijote
• Welcia

50. Stock up on snacks and souvenirs

No trip to Japan is complete without getting lost down the aisles of a Don Quijote.

If you’re looking for proper gifts/snacks, check out

• Yoroshi Cosmetics (Asakusa, Tokyo)
  • They have 365 different scented hand creams for every day of the year, perfect as birthday gifts
  • They sell lip balms too, but I’m not a fan
• Nanaya (one store in Tokyo, one in Kyoto, and four in Shizuoka)
  • Similar to Suzukien Asakusa, they offer seven levels of matcha gelato
  • Their MATCHA 7 assorted green tea chocolate bars make for yummy souvenirs
• Marukyu Koyamaen (four stores in Kyoto)
  • Amazing high-quality teas
  • You can buy a few to try, then restock the ones you like from their online shop afterwards

Pin for later!

Well, there you have it! Hope this gives you a better idea of what to do in Japan.

With over-tourism slowly becoming an issue for locals, I strongly encourage you to venture out of the Golden Route. But, hey, I get it. We all want to see iconic sights the first time we visit a foreign country. Manage your expectations, remember to be respectful, and read up on my guide to traveling Japan so you know all the cultural do’s and don’ts.

Book Your Japan Trip Today

Other Helpful Japan Guides

• 

  10 Best Cherry Blossom Spots in Tokyo (+ Map)

• 

  Best & Worst Times to Visit Japan

• 

  A Beginner’s Guide to Japanese Onsen Etiquette—And Where Best to Go!