10 Best Things to Do in Japan for a Memorable Holiday
Japan is a country that doesn’t reveal itself all at once. Instead, it invites you to wander, to taste, to pause, and to keep discovering layer after layer of experiences (some joyful, some moving, all unforgettable).
The first thing most travelers notice about Japan isn’t just its famous landmarks, it’s the feeling of stepping into a world where every moment holds a little surprise. One minute you’re standing in front of a centuries-old temple wrapped in quiet stillness, and the next you’re swept into a neon-lit street buzzing with the latest trends.
If you’re wondering what to include in your holiday, here’s a guide to top 10 things to do in Japan that capture the magic of the destination and leave you with memories that you can carry home long after your trip ends.
1. Explore the Charm of Kyoto’s Temples
Kyoto is where Japan lays back and slows down, casting a soothing air of relaxation. Imagine walking along stone paths lined with cherry blossoms and pausing at temples that whisper centuries of history- some of the must-do things here. In addition, Kiyomizu-dera and Fushimi Inari Shrine are two landmarks that can give you both beauty and cultural depth. Also, the thousands of red torii gates at Fushimi Inari can make travellers feel like stepping into another world.
2. Feel the Buzz at Tokyo’s Shibuya Crossing
Often called the busiest crossing in the world- Shibuya is more than just an intersection, it is a symbol of modernity. You can stand at the famous scramble crossing and watch hundreds of people move in every direction at once, like an un-choreographed dance. This place has also been featured in several movies like Fast and Furious and Lost in Translation. While here, you can also step into the nearby cafés and shops, where modern Japan reveals itself in the trendiest ways.
3. Take a Soothing Onsen Bath
How would you feel about soaking in a natural hot spring while gazing at Mt. Fuji? Comfortable, warm, and satisfied right! In Japan, Onsen (traditional hot springs) can be found almost everywhere, with Hakone and Beppu being favorite spots for travellers to try out this experience. It’s relaxation in its purest form, and a reminder that holidays aren’t just about sightseeing but also about slowing down.
4. Visit Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park
A trip to Japan is incomplete without visiting Hiroshima- a signifier of Japan’s resilience. The Peace Memorial Park and Museum are sobering yet a deeply moving place to witness on your trip with Japan packages. Walking through the park, you’ll find yourself reflecting not just on the dark history of the place, but also on hope and human spirit.
5. Experience a Traditional Tea Ceremony
There’s a calming feeling in the way Japan turns something as simple as tea into an art form, and a traditional tea ceremony in Kyoto or Tokyo can offer you a glimpse of just that. This experience invites you to be fully present, and experience the cultural heritage of the place. From the precise methods of brewing tea to the delicate taste of matcha, every moment spent enjoying a tea ceremony in Japan is sure to elevate your holiday.
6. Spend a Day at Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea
Are you traveling with kids (or simply young at heart)? Then Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea can be your perfect choice for a fun day-out. They’re often called the happiest places in Japan, and for good reasons like parades, themed rides, and magical shows that bring both nostalgia and excitement to visitors. DisneySea, in particular, is unique to Japan and often surprises even seasoned Disney fans with ocean-themed design and a great ambience.
7. Discover the Snow Monkeys of Nagano
If you plan your trip to Japan in winter, head to Jigokudani Monkey Park in Nagano. Watching snow monkeys soak in natural hot springs can be both heartwarming and slightly amusing. You may feel that the sight is straight out of a wildlife documentary… but the only difference is that you’re right there, sharing the moment in your reality!
8. Savor Fresh Sushi at Tsukiji or Toyosu Market
A sushi tour in Japan can be an adventure of a lifetime for food enthusiasts. So if you are wondering where to find the best of this dish here, Tsukiji Outer Market or Toyosu Fish Market in Tokyo can offer you unforgettable experiences. Travellers can bite into sushi so fresh and flavourful, that it practically melts in your mouth. You can then explore stalls selling everything from tamagoyaki (sweet omelets) to steaming bowls of ramen and spend an evening exploring the delicious food options of Japan.
9. Ride the Iconic Shinkansen (Bullet Train)
Sleek, fast, and incredibly punctual, the bullet trains in Japan turn travel between cities into an experience of its own. One moment you’re in Tokyo, and in just a couple of hours, you can get down at Osaka or Kyoto. The countryside views flashing past your window can make the ride even more memorable. Also, it is one of those things that capture Japan’s modern marvels local lifestyle.
10. Witness Mount Fuji’s Majesty
No visit to Japan is complete without witnessing the great Mount Fuji. Whether you’re viewing it from Lake Kawaguchi, climbing part of its trail, or catching a glimpse from the Shinkansen, it never fails to make travellers get awe-struck. And, if you’re lucky enough to see it on a clear day, you can thank the universe for offering you no less than a personal gift!
Conclusion
Japan is not just about sights, it’s about the emotions it induces in a traveller. Be it the serenity of temples, the laughter at a theme park, the warmth of an onsen, the taste of sushi at sunrise, you can have some marvellous and unique experiences at this destination. Whether you’re traveling with family, as a couple, or on your own, the country has a way of tailoring itself to your pace and style. With so much variety, it’s no surprise that Japan is among the most sought-after destinations for travelers worldwide.
Recommended Travel Company
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