Things To Do
in Japan
Japan is an island nation located in East Asia, known for its unique blend of traditional culture and modern advancements. The country boasts stunning landscapes, including cherry blossoms in the spring and snow-capped mountains in the winter. Japanese cuisine, such as sushi and ramen, is renowned worldwide for its exquisite flavors and presentation.
Japan is also famous for its technological innovations, including bullet trains, robotics, and video games.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $150
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Tokyo Tower and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Grab a breakfast of fresh sushi or a classic Japanese pancake nearby.
Explore the bustling streets of Shibuya, witnessing the famous Shibuya Crossing. Indulge in a lunch of ramen at a local eatery.
Stroll through the neon lights of Akihabara, soaking in the otaku culture. Enjoy a casual dinner at an izakaya, sampling various small dishes.
Visit the stunning Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) early in the day to avoid crowds. Take pictures of the beautiful surrounding gardens.
Explore the historic streets of Gion, where you might spot a geisha. Enjoy a traditional kaiseki lunch, experiencing the flavors of Kyoto.
Spend the evening at the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a serene escape from the city. Dine on yudofu (tofu hot pot) at a local restaurant.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and traditions
- Advanced technology and infrastructure
- High standard of living and safety
- Delicious and diverse cuisine
- Efficient public transportation system
- Strong education system
- Beautiful natural landscapes
- High cost of living in major cities
- Aging population and declining birthrate
- Limited space and overcrowding in urban areas
- Language barrier for non-Japanese speakers
- Natural disasters, such as earthquakes and tsunamis
- Work culture can be demanding with long hours
- Some social customs may be difficult for outsiders to navigate
Best Activities in Japan
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic trails and pristine nature of Kamikochi in the Japanese Alps.
Enjoy a picturesque cycling route that spans multiple islands in the Seto Inland Sea.
Catch waves along the coastline of Chiba, known for its surf-friendly beaches.
Experience world-class powder snow and skiing facilities in the Niseko region.
Challenge yourself on the granite walls of Ogawayama, a renowned climbing destination.
Tours
Uncover the best of Japan with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Japan
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic mountain with stunning views, especially from Lake Kawaguchi and Chureito Pagoda
Food in Japan
Japan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sushi is a globally popular dish that originated in Japan. It consists of vinegared rice, fresh fish, and other ingredients like vegetables or egg, often served with a side of soy sauce, pickled ginger, and wasabi. Some popular places to try sushi in Japan include Sukiyabashi Jiro in Tokyo and Daiwa Sushi in Tsukiji Market.
Must-Try!
Ramen is a beloved Japanese noodle soup dish consisting of wheat noodles served in a meat or fish-based broth, often flavored with soy sauce or miso, and topped with various ingredients such as sliced pork, seaweed, green onions, and a soft-boiled egg. Sample delicious ramen at Ichiran in Tokyo or Ippudo in Fukuoka.
Takoyaki are savory, ball-shaped snacks made of wheat flour batter filled with octopus, pickled ginger, and green onion, then topped with takoyaki sauce, mayonnaise, bonito flakes, and seaweed. In Osaka, try them at popular spots like Takoyaki Doraku Wanaka and Aizuya.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Japan better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Tsukiji Market in Tokyo, formerly the world's largest fish market, offers an array of fresh seafood, including sushi, sashimi, and other seafood dishes. It's also an excellent place to savor street food such as grilled scallops, tamagoyaki (sweet omelet), and fresh oysters.
Located in Kyoto, Nishiki Market is a narrow shopping street lined with over a hundred food stalls and specialty shops, offering a wide variety of street food such as skewered grilled seafood, pickles, tsukemono (Japanese preserved vegetables), and mochi (rice cakes).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Using polite language (keigo) and bowing when greeting or showing respect to others is a fundamental aspect of Japanese culture.
It is customary to remove shoes before entering a home, traditional ryokan, or certain other facilities in Japan as a sign of respect and cleanliness.
Japanese culture places a high value on personal space, so it's important to be mindful of personal boundaries and avoid physical contact unless it is initiated by the other person.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Japan with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Japan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Japan. It is generally not expected or required in restaurants, hotels, or other service industries.
In Japan, cash is the most commonly used form of payment, and credit cards are widely accepted, especially in urban areas. Mobile payments and prepaid cards are also gaining popularity.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Japan.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to see cherry blossoms and experience traditional festivals such as Hanami
Expect hot and humid weather, ideal for beach vacations and summer festivals
Great for viewing beautiful fall foliage, known as koyo, and enjoying local food and drinks
Ideal for skiing and snowboarding in the mountainous regions, as well as enjoying hot springs
Japan at Night
Hiking in Japan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
The highest peak in Japan, Mt. Fuji offers several hiking trails with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and a unique experience during climbing season.
Located in Hokkaido, this UNESCO World Heritage site features rugged terrain and stunning coastal landscapes, making it ideal for diverse hiking experiences.
An ancient pilgrimage route in the Kishu region, the Kumano Kodo offers a unique hiking experience that combines natural beauty with cultural heritage.
Famous for its rich history and beautiful scenery, Nikko National Park offers various hiking trails that lead to waterfalls, lakes, and historic sites.
The largest national park in Hokkaido, Daisetsuzan features majestic mountains, diverse flora and fauna, and numerous trails for hikers of all skill levels.
Known for its ancient cedar trees and lush rainforests, Yakushima offers hiking trails that take you through beautiful landscapes, including the famous Jomon Sugi.
Home to one of the world's largest volcanic calderas, Aso Kuju features a variety of hiking trails with stunning views of the volcanic landscape and unique ecosystems.
Famous for its floating torii gate, Miyajima also offers scenic hiking trails up to Mt. Misen, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea.
Known for its majestic mountains and rich biodiversity, Hakusan National Park provides various hiking trails that cater to both beginners and advanced hikers.
Offering a different experience compared to mainland Japan, Okinawa has several hiking trails that showcase its tropical landscapes, including lush forests and beautiful coastlines.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Japan through these rare and unique activities.
Airports
How to reach Japan by plane.
Also known as Haneda Airport, it is one of the two primary airports serving Tokyo and the closest to the city center.
Located in Narita, Chiba, it is the main international airport serving Tokyo and is known for its extensive international connections.
Located on an artificial island in Osaka Bay, it serves the Greater Osaka area and is a key international gateway.
Located on an island in Ise Bay, this airport serves Nagoya and is a major hub for international travel in central Japan.
Located near Sapporo, Hokkaido, it is the main airport for the northern region of Japan and serves numerous international routes.
Located in Fukuoka, it is a primary international airport for the Kyushu region and offers various international flights.
Located in Okinawa, it serves both domestic and international flights and is the main airport for the Okinawa Prefecture.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Japan, comprising approximately 98.5% of the population.
The largest minority group, primarily made up of Zainichi Koreans who have lived in Japan for generations.
Another significant minority group, with a history of migration dating back over a century.
A notable group, particularly in industrial regions, resulting from migration waves in the late 20th century.
A growing demographic, largely due to labor migration in recent years.
Increasing in numbers, primarily due to both work opportunities and educational exchanges.
This includes smaller communities from countries such as Peru, the United States, and various European nations.
The Soul of Japan
Discover the essence of Japan through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Japan, with a professional league (NPB) that draws large crowds and has a passionate fan base.
Soccer, or football as it is known outside of North America, has gained immense popularity in Japan, especially with the success of the J.League and the national team's performances.
Sumo is a traditional Japanese sport that is deeply rooted in Japanese culture, featuring rituals, ceremonies, and tournaments throughout the year.
Tennis is widely played in Japan, with both men's and women's tournaments gaining traction and a growing number of players and fans.
Basketball has a significant following in Japan, with professional leagues and increasing participation rates among youth.
Volleyball is popular at both school and professional levels, with Japan having a successful national team that competes internationally.
Auto racing, particularly Formula 1 and Super GT, has a strong following in Japan, with many fans attending races and following the sport closely.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Japan's traditional cuisine heavily features seafood and meat, there are an increasing number of restaurants offering vegetarian and vegan dishes, particularly in major cities. Look for restaurants specializing in shojin ryori (Buddhist temple cuisine) or modern, plant-based dining for a satisfying meat-free experience.
Individuals with gluten intolerance may find it challenging to navigate Japanese cuisine due to the prevalent use of soy sauce and wheat-based ingredients. However, some restaurants are beginning to cater to gluten-free diets by offering alternative soy sauces and gluten-free noodles. It's advisable to communicate dietary restrictions clearly when dining out.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Japan with these cultural adventures.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Japan.