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Things to Do in Japan

Unwind at Tenzan Onsen, a traditional Japanese day-use hot spring bath that uses natural mineral spring water. You can choose from several types of indoor and outdoor baths. It’s the peaceful spot to relax and recharge after long sightseeing days and is well suited for honeymoon trips to Japan or solo trips. 

Note that Tenzen Onsen enforces a strict adult-only environment to maintain its healing hot-spring atmosphere. Groups are generally prohibited, and they also strictly restrict party sizes for guests with tattoos to a maximum of one tattooed person per group. 

• Location: 208 Yumotochaya, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0312, Japan
• Timing: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM (Last entry at 10:00 PM)

Japan is famous for its cherry blossom season worldwide. The tradition, also known as Hanami, marks the arrival of spring and is usually celebrated between mid-March and mid-April in major cities. The arrival of the blossoms varies depending on weather conditions. The blooming white or pink blossoms draw people from around the world to come and take in the spellbinding sight. 

Japan is home to a wide variety of cherry blossoms, which include both wild and cultivated ones. You can witness this unique tradition in many parts of Japan. Tokyo, the capital city, is one of the top choices to get a great view of the incredible flowers. Other places where you can enjoy cherry blossom viewing are Nagoya, Kyoto, Fukuoka, and Osaka. If you're short on time, even a 4-day Japan tour package can offer a memorable glimpse of these breathtaking views

If you're planning a short but action-packed trip to Japan, a 3-day Japan tour package is a great way to experience the best of the country. One must-see activity is a sumo wrestling match, a quintessential experience that should be on your list. Sumo is a traditional Japanese wrestling style that originated in ancient times. Many rituals that were practiced in ancient days are still performed today.

One such ritual is the symbolic purification of the wrestling ring with salt. The best way to enjoy a sumo wrestling match is by attending sumo tournaments. These are usually held for 15 days, and tickets can be purchased in advance from official vendors, online, or at convenience stores.

Indulge your inner child at Tokyo Disneyland, where fun and frolic await. Meet your favourite Disney characters, go on thrilling rides, and shop at numerous stores. If you're looking for an all-inclusive experience, the 6-day Japan tour itinerary is perfect to cover not just Tokyo Disneyland but also other iconic attractions, giving you a well-rounded view of Japan's culture, history, and modern charm.

Location: 1-1 Maihama, Urayasu, Chiba 279-0031, Japan
Timing: 9 AM - 9 PM

This is one of the top things to do in Japan! Tokyo Imperial Palace is a stunning display of traditional Japanese architecture and features the scenic East Gardens.

Address: 1-1 Chiyoda, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-8111, Japan
Timing: 9:00 AM–4:00 PM (East Gardens, seasonal variations apply; closed Mondays and Fridays) or 9:00–11:15 AM, 1:30–2:45 PM (for official guided grounds tours)

The white Rainbow Bridge is lit up in several colours come nighttime. Pay a visit when daylight dies to watch the colours unfold.

Location: Minato City, Tokyo 105-0022, Japan

Officially renamed as the Nidec Kyoto Tower, is a modern marvel in a city of old charm. The structure contains a hotel, shops, and a food hall.

Location: 721-1 Higashishiokojicho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8216, Japan
Timing: 10AM - 9PM (Last entry at 8:30 PM)

The Hall of the Lotus King is the main hall of Sanj?sangend?, a sprawling temple that features 1,001 statues of the goddess Kannon. It’s also the longest wooden structure in the country.

Location: 657 Sanjusangendomawari, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0941, Japan
Timing: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM (April 1 – Nov 15); 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Nov 16 – March 31). The last entry is 30 minutes before closing.

Japanese tea ceremonies are well-known, and Kyoto is one of the best places to witness the elaborate rituals. Venues like Camellia and Tea Ceremony KOTO offer highly rated, English-guided experiences.

Tea Ceremony KOTO

• Location: 37 Kinugasanishi Goshonouchicho, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8377, Japan
• Timing: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (by advance reservation)

Tea Ceremony Camellia (Flower Location)

• Location: 349-12 Masuyacho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0826, Japan
• Timing: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Discover the history of Japan’s railways and see retired trains like steam trains and electric trains at Kyoto Railway Museum. You can also learn how a freight train operates.

Location: Kankijicho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8835, Japan
Timing: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last entry at 4:30 PM). Closed on Wednesdays (except holidays).

Manga fans will go crazy at Kyoto International Manga Museum. Exploring the huge collection of indigenous and international manga will keep you occupied for hours.

Location: 452 Kinbukicho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-0846, Japan
Timing: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last entry at 4:30 PM). Closed on Wednesdays.

Aqualiner- Tour Osaka on the Aqua-Liner, which is an aqua bus that covers some of the city’s most famous attractions. The tour takes about an hour to complete.

Location: 2 Osakajo, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 540-0002, Japan

Osaka Castle is a beautiful landmark that was built in the 16th century. Today, it features a modern interior with a museum and an elevator.

Location: 1-1 Osakajo, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 540-0002, Japan

Get a thrill and a great view from Tempozan Ferris Wheel. The 369-foot structure offers an incredible view of Osaka Bay, the Rokko Mountains and Mount Ikoma.

Location: 1 Chome-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato Ward, Osaka, 552-0022, Japan
Timing: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily, with ticket sales and last entry closing 15 minutes before at 9:45 PM (or 9:30 PM depending on seasonal shifts) 

SpaWorld introduces you to a world of relaxation with onsens, ganban-yoku and a swimming area. It also has a hotel with western and Japanese-style rooms.

Location: 3 Chome-4-24 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0002, Japan

The Umeda Sky Building and its Floating Garden Observatory are excellent viewing points that let you see Osaka from a unique 360-degree perspective. Like many Japanese structures, it is beautifully illuminated at night. 

Location: 1 Chome-1-88 Oyodonaka, Kita Ward, Osaka, 531-6023, Japan

See the history of Japanese coinage and learn about the minting process at the Mint Museum. Dioramas, a cherry blossom wing and a mint shop are found here.

Location: 1 Chome-1-79 Tenma, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-0043, Japan
Timing: 9AM-4:45PM (Last entry at 4:00 PM)

At over 100 meters tall, Yokohama Marine Tower dominates the city’s skyline. The 360-degree panorama from the observation deck is spectacular. The tower also features an array of restaurants and shops to explore.

Location: 14-1 Yamashitacho, Naka Ward, Yokohama, Kanagawa 231-0023, Japan 

Yamashita Park offers gorgeous views of the Port of Yokohama and is a favourite among locals and tourists. You can see a huge ocean liner, Hikawa Maru and Yokohama Marine Tower from here.

Location: Yamashitacho, Naka Ward, Yokohama, Kanagawa 231-0023, Japan

Cosmo Clock 21 was at one time the world’s tallest Ferris wheel and continues to command attention today. It has a massive clock at the centre.

Location: 2 Chome-8-1 Shinko, Naka Ward, Yokohama, Kanagawa 231-0001, Japan
Timing: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM on weekdays and 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM on weekends and public holidays (Closed on Thursdays; seasonal variations apply) 

You’ll be amazed by the varieties of ramen on offer at Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum. The traditional street food court serves up a list of goodies, each better than the last.

Location: 2 Chome-14-21 Shinyokohama, Kohoku Ward, Yokohama, Kanagawa 222-0033, Japan

Go on a brewery tour of Kirin Beer Factory, one of the country’s most prominent breweries. You'll get to see fermentation tanks and the bottling area before finishing the experience with a guided tasting session of up to three beers. Advance online reservations are required, and a nominal admission fee applies for adults.

Location: 1 Chome-17-1 Namamugi, Tsurumi Ward, Yokohama, Kanagawa 230-8628, Japan 

Hakone Open-Air Museum balances nature and art perfectly. The collection is displayed both indoors and outdoors and features works by artists like Picasso.

Location: 1121 Ninotaira, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0407, Japan
Timing: 9AM-5PM (Last admission at 4:30 PM)

Hiryu Falls is a gorgeous green wonderland that will envelop you in its embrace. Go on a hike and you’ll see it along the way.

Location: Hatajuku, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0314, Japan

While you’re in Hakone, take a kayaking tour around Lake Ashi, a serene locale that offers lovely views of Mount Fuji when the sky is clear.

Location: Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture, Honshu, Japan

Hard-boiled eggs are nothing to write about, but at Owakudani, they are! The eggs are boiled black in natural volcanic springs and carry a sulphuric odour.

Location: Sengokuhara, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0631, Japan
Timing: 9AM-4:30PM (Subject to volcanic gas closures)

POLA Museum of Art showcases the art collection of Suzuki Tsuneshi, the late owner of POLA, a cosmetics company. The museum is set in a forest of several hundred beech trees.

Location: 1285 Kozukayama, Sengokuhara, Hakone, Kanagawa 250-0631, Japan
Timing: 9AM-5PM (Last entry at 4:30 PM)

Shirahama Beach is a pretty stretch of sand with blue water creating a striking contrast. But that’s not all it has – there are hot springs you can visit to de-stress before continuing on your sightseeing trip.

Location: Shirahama, Nishimuro District, Wakayama 649-2211, Japan

Discover Japan’s marine life by scuba diving at Miyakojima Beach. Coral, native fish and sea anemones are just a few of the wonders you’ll see.

Location: Miyakojima, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is a must-visit when in Japan. It was established in memory of the victims of the atom bomb dropped during World War II.

Location: 1 Chome-1 Nakajimacho, Naka Ward, Hiroshima, 730-0811, Japan

Although not incredibly high, Fukiware Falls still takes breaths away with its gushing waters. See it from below for the best view.

Location: Tonecho Okkai, Numata, Gunma 378-0303, Japan

Akame 48 Waterfalls is a series of captivating cascades in Mie Prefecture. A 4-km hiking trail will take you to them.

Location: Nagasaka-861-1 Akamecho, Nabari, Mie 518-0469, Japan
Timing: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM (April 1 – November 30); 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM (December 1 – March 31; strictly closed on Thursdays during the winter period) 

Located in the Towada-Hachimantai National Park, Oirase Gorge is a sea of green with trees and shrubbery dominating the landscape. Falls, a stream and a valley create a beautiful scene.

Location: Towada, Aomori Prefecture, 034-0301, Japan

Gamers will go crazy over the number of video games on offer at Video Game Bar Space Station. Nintendo, Atari, PlayStation, Xbox – you name it and it is here.

Location: 2 Chome-13-3 Nishishinsaibashi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0086, Japan
Timing: 5:00 PM – 2:00 AM daily 

Enjoy water sports in Minakami, Gunma. The waterslide is a thrilling ride and perfect for adventure seekers.

Location: Minakami, Tone District, Gunma 379-1617, Japan

Takane ruby or red buckwheat bursts into colour in Akasoba No Sato. Visiting in September when these little beauties are in full bloom is one of the best things to do in Japan.

Location: Nakaminowa, Minowa Town, Kamiina District, Nagano 399-4601, Japan

This 19th-century structure is an awe-inspiring stone arch aqueduct bridge and the country’s largest. Walk across and peer down to appreciate its size. 

Location: Nagahara, Yamato, Kamimashiki District, Kumamoto 861-3661, Japan

This secluded village looks like something straight out of a fairytale. It’s nestled in a valley and surrounded by green mountains that stand like sentinels.

Location: Shimoguri, Kamimura, Iida City, Nagano 399-1403, Japan 

Japan is famed for its robotics and pop culture franchises like Gundam. While official giant statues cycle through dynamic limited-time exhibit runs across metropolitan districts over the years, the country remains a premier global capital for exclusive hobby showcases and specialised production models.

Location: Tokyo, Japan