Planning a trip to Japan? Feeling overwhelmed by all the choices? Believe me, I understand. Things to Do in Japan can fill up 20 browser tabs before you even pack your suitcase. I was there once — panic-Googling “best ramen in Shinjuku” while half-asleep on a bullet train.
Things to Do in Japan isn’t just about ticking off temples or stuffing your face (though you’ll do both, trust me). It’s about absorbing a vibe, missing your train because a convenience store sandwich distracted you, and then realizing you’re somehow exactly where you’re meant to be.
So here it is — no frills, no fluff. Just the raw, late-night version of the Top Things to Do in Japan, straight from someone who’s wandered, eaten, slipped, and said “sumimasen” too many times.
1. Get Lost (on Purpose) in Tokyo’s Concrete Jungle
Things to Do in Japan always start with Tokyo — because how could they not? This city is a monster, and I mean that lovingly. I once spent an hour inside Shinjuku Station just trying to find the right exit. Spoiler: I gave up and followed a group of giggling high schoolers who looked like they knew what was up. (They did.)
Must-See Tokyo Bits:
- Shibuya Crossing: You’re not ready. It’s like being part of a giant human symphony of chaos.
- Harajuku Takeshita Street: I saw a guy dressed like a unicorn goth ninja. Bought a crepe the size of my forearm.
- TeamLab Planets Tokyo: I cried a little in the water room. Not sure why. It just hits.
- Tsukiji Outer Market: Yes, I ate sushi at 7:45 a.m. Yes, it ruined all future sushi for me.
Tokyo Pro Tip: 7-Eleven isn’t a gas station here, it’s a gourmet experience. Get the egg salad sandwich and thank me later.
2. Feel the Zen in Kyoto
Things to Do in Japan go from neon to nostalgic the second you roll into Kyoto. It’s the kind of place where you whisper without realizing it — probably because the temples seem to be judging you. I stayed in a ryokan and totally messed up the tatami mat rules (don’t walk on them with socks, oops).
Kyoto Checklist:
- Fushimi Inari Shrine: Go early. Like, pre-sunrise early. It’s quiet enough to hear your footsteps echo.
- Gion District: Twilight strolls and maybe a glimpse of a geisha—don’t stare, be cool.
- Kinkaku-ji: The Golden Pavilion looks fake in the best way. Like a screensaver from 2003, but majestic.
Kyoto Local Tip: Breakfast at a ryokan is a full-on experience. Grilled fish at 7 a.m.? Surprisingly soulful.
3. Wander Through a Bamboo Forest in Arashiyama
Things to Do in Japan sometimes involve slowing waaaay down. Arashiyama was that place for me. The Bamboo Grove isn’t just photogenic, it’s freakin’ mystical. The light filters through in a way that made me question if I was dreaming or dehydrated.
Must-Do Arashiyama Moments:
- Iwatayama Monkey Park: Hike uphill, get rewarded with monkey mayhem. One stole my hair tie. No regrets.
- Togetsukyo Bridge: Perfect spot for that
deep breathmoment. Bonus points in autumn.
Snack Hack: Matcha soft serve. Even if you think you hate green tea, this is a flavor bomb you can’t ignore.
4. Eat Absolutely Everything in Osaka
Things to Do in Japan must include a food bender in Osaka. If Tokyo is a workaholic, Osaka is the laid-back foodie friend who insists you take a bite of everything. I burned my mouth on takoyaki and felt honored.
Osaka Food Crawl:
- Dotonbori: Neon, laughter, food smells in the air. It’s like Blade Runner but hungry.
- Takoyaki: Gooey octopus lava balls. You will get burned. You will keep eating.
- Okonomiyaki: Basically pancake pizza. I shared one with a stranger at a bar. Instant friendship.
- Kushikatsu: Fried everything on sticks. Heaven on a toothpick.
Osaka Secret Weapon: Osaka Castle is underrated. The cherry blossoms? Unreal. Go up to the top floor. The view slaps.
5. Gaze at Mt. Fuji Until You Forget to Blink
Things to Do in Japan don’t get more iconic than staring at Mt. Fuji. The first time I saw it from Lake Kawaguchiko, I legit gasped. Like, audibly. Some locals smiled. I was that tourist, and I’m okay with it.
Fuji Fan Favorites:
- Chureito Pagoda: The money shot. Climb the stairs and earn that wallpaper photo.
- Fuji Five Lakes: Chill zone. Rent a bike. Skip stones. Breathe.
- Hakone: Pirate ships, cable cars, and hot springs? It’s like Disney for chill adults.
Real Talk: Climbing Fuji is wild. Beautiful and brutal. Bring layers. And snacks. And a stubborn will to reach the top.
6. Discover Nagoya’s Underrated Appeal
Things to Do in Japan don’t usually include Nagoya, and that’s a shame. This city surprised me in the best way. It felt like Tokyo’s quieter cousin with a love for cars, castles, and eel rice. Yes, eel rice. And it’s delicious.
Nagoya Picks:
- Nagoya Castle: It’s reconstructed, yeah, but still photogenic AF. Those gold fish things? Cool history.
- Toyota Commemorative Museum: Didn’t think I’d geek out over looms and engines. I did.
- Osu Shopping Street: Vintage shops, anime merch, and the best karaage (fried chicken) I had in Japan.
Eat This: Hitsumabushi — grilled eel over rice, eaten in stages. Fancy but fun. Felt like a sushi ceremony.
Bonus Tips for Your Trip
| Tip | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Get a JR Pass | Unlimited rides on bullet trains = godsend. Order before arriving. |
| Rent Pocket Wi-Fi | No signal anxiety. Plus, Google Maps will save you. |
| Learn Basic Japanese | “Sumimasen” works miracles. People appreciate the effort. |
| Carry Cash | Japan loves coins. 7-Eleven ATMs are your besties. |
| Don’t Overplan | Leave room to wander. That’s when the magic sneaks in. |
Final Thoughts: What Japan Taught Me
Things to Do in Japan might start with a checklist, but by the end, you’re living a little differently. Slower. Smarter. Softer. In Tokyo, I learned to be okay with chaos. In Kyoto, I rediscovered silence. And in Arashiyama, I remembered how to breathe.
So yeah, if you’re headed there soon — don’t just “do” Japan. Feel it. Let it confuse you. Let it wow you. And most of all, don’t be afraid to get a little lost.
Been to Japan before? Got weird ramen recs? Hidden gems? Drop ’em in the comments. I’m always down for an excuse to go back
