Japan is a country rich in culture that you can’t help but enjoy once you have visited. Whether it be the food, the visually pleasing architecture, the super-modern cities or the old-world markets, Japan offers something for everyone. Being a country which is often misunderstood and stigmatized in Hollywood films, I get curious when people say they’re going to Japan. This always leads me to ask them questions regarding their trip, what they like and don’t like, etc. As a result of this inquiry, I’ve given a lot of thought to what it was that I liked and disliked about my own trips to Japan — and this led me to create this feature piece on 25 things I consider necessary for those visiting Japan for the first time.
1) Visit the iconic Tokyo Tower for a bird’s-eye view of the city
Visit Tokyo Tower for a panoramic view of the city. These iconic towers offer observation decks with impressive views of the city and its surrounding. Tokyo Tower, inspired by the Eiffel Tower in Paris, was built in 1958, while the Tokyo Skytree, the tallest tower in Japan and completed in 2012, also offers shopping and dining options. It’s a perfect place to get a sense of the city’s layout and see its many neighborhoods and landmarks.
2) Explore the ancient Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, one of Tokyo’s oldest and most colorful districts
Exploring the ancient Sensoji Temple in Asakusa is a must-do for any traveler to Tokyo. The temple is one of the oldest in the city and is known for its vibrant and colorful atmosphere. The temple was built in the 7th century and is dedicated to the Bodhisattva Kannon. Asakusa is one of the oldest districts in Tokyo, known for its historical and cultural atmosphere, traditional shops and street food.
3) See the latest electronic gadgets at Akihabara
A visit to Akihabara, also known as “Electric Town,” is a must for any traveler interested in technology and electronics. The neighborhood is renowned for its many electronics stores, offering the latest gadgets and appliances, from smartphones and laptops to cameras, home appliances, and gaming consoles. You can also find video game arcades and anime and manga stores. Akihabara is also a great place to see the latest in Japanese pop culture and you can spot cosplayers in the streets. Not only it is a perfect destination for technology enthusiasts but it also provide a glimpse into the cultural interests of Japanese youth.
4) Visit the Edo-Tokyo Museum for a glimpse into the city’s past
A visit to the Edo-Tokyo Museum is an excellent way for travelers to gain an understanding of Tokyo’s rich history and cultural heritage. The museum is dedicated to the history of Tokyo from the Edo period to the present, showcasing life in the city through the centuries. You can find exhibits of traditional crafts, scale models of buildings and streets, and interactive displays. The museum also provides insight into the political, social, and economic changes that shaped the city over time.
5) Cross Shibuya Crossing
Shibuya is a popular district in Tokyo known for its vibrant nightlife, shopping and iconic landmarks. One of the most famous landmarks is the famous Shibuya Crossing, known as the busiest intersection in the world. It’s a must-see spot for tourists, you can cross the street with thousands of people and take great photos of the scene. Other popular attraction in Shibuya includes the statues of Hachiko, a dog that waited at the station for his master every day, and the statue is now a symbol of loyalty and devotion. Shibuya also offers a variety of shopping options, from high-end fashion boutiques to trendy streetwear shops, and is also home to many department stores and electronics stores.
6) See the cherry blossoms in spring at one of Japan’s many parks and gardens
Seeing the cherry blossoms in spring is a must-do for any traveler to Japan. The cherry blossoms, or “sakura,” are a symbol of spring and are celebrated in many parks and gardens throughout the country. Japan has many famous spots to see cherry blossoms like Ueno Park, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, and Chidorigafuchi Park. These locations offer visitors the chance to see the pink and white blossoms in full bloom, surrounded by beautiful landscapes.
7) Take a day trip to Nikko to see the Toshogu Shrine and other historical buildings
A day trip to Nikko is a must for any traveler to Japan. The city is located about two and a half hours from Tokyo by train, and is home to the Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most extravagant and ornate shrines in Japan. The shrine was built in the 17th century to honor the shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu and features a variety of decorative carvings, including the famous “sleeping cat” and “see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil” monkeys. Nikko also offers other historical sites such as the Taiyuinbyo Shrine, and the Futarasan Shrine.
8) Visit Mt. Fuji
Mount Fuji, or “Fujisan,” is one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks and a must-see for any traveler. It is an active volcano and the highest mountain in Japan. Climbing the mountain during the official climbing season (July-September) is a popular activity and is a challenging but rewarding experience, offering breathtaking views from the summit. The mountain can also be viewed from a distance from various locations like Lake Kawaguchiko, Lake Ashi and the Mount Fuji 5th Station.
9) Take a dip in an onsen (hot spring) in a town such as Hakone or Noboribetsu
Taking a dip in an Onsen is a must-do for any traveler visiting Japan. The towns of Hakone and Noboribetsu are known for their hot springs, providing a great opportunity to relax and unwind. Onsens are natural hot springs that have been used for centuries for their healing properties and recreational uses. In Hakone, you can find many hot springs that offer views of Mt. Fuji and traditional Japanese ryokans (inns) while you relax and soak in the hot water.
10) Visit Nara and see the Nara National Museum
A visit to Nara is a must-do for any traveler to Japan. The city is located just an hour south of Kyoto, and is home to many historical landmarks such as the Todai-ji Temple, one of the oldest and largest wooden buildings in the world and housing the Great Buddha statue. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the most important Buddhist temples in Japan. The Nara National Museum, located within Nara Park, is also a must-see. It’s a comprehensive museum that covers the art, archaeology, and history of Nara period (710-794) and provides an insight into the development of Buddhism and the culture of the time.
11) Visit the iconic Osaka Castle, a 16th-century fortress with beautiful gardens and great views
A visit to the iconic Osaka Castle is a must-do for any traveler to Osaka. The castle is a 16th-century fortress that offers a glimpse into Japan’s past and stunning views of the city from its observation deck. The castle has been rebuild several times and the current building dates from the early 20th century. The castle grounds are also home to beautiful gardens, including the Nishinomaru Garden and the Honmaru Garden. Inside the main tower, you can see exhibits showcasing the castle’s history and significance.
12) Explore the lively Dotonbori neighborhood, famous for its bright lights and delicious street food
Exploring the lively Dotonbori neighborhood is a must-do for any traveler to Osaka. Known for its bright lights, bustling streets and delicious street food, Dotonbori is a lively and vibrant neighborhood located along the Dotonbori canal. The famous Glico man sign and the moving crab sign on the Kani Doraku building are just a couple of the many illuminated signs and billboards that light up the streets and attract visitors from all over the world.
13) Visit the Osaka Science Museum, which offers interactive exhibits and a planetarium
A visit to the Osaka Science Museum is a great way to experience the fascinating world of science and technology. The museum is located in the city center and features a wide range of interactive exhibits, hands-on experiments and displays, making it a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages. The museum also features a planetarium where visitors can experience the wonders of the universe. The museum exhibits cover a wide range of subjects such as physics, chemistry, and life sciences, technology and the environment.
14) Take a trip to Universal Studios Japan, an exciting theme park with many attractions
A trip to Universal Studios Japan is a must-do for any traveler looking for an exciting and fun day out. The theme park features many attractions based on popular movies and TV shows such as Harry Potter, Minions, and Spider-Man. You can experience thrilling rides, like Hollywood Dream – The Ride roller coaster, and enjoy exciting live shows and parades. The park also has a wide range of food and shopping options, including souvenir shops, and many opportunities for you to take pictures with your favorite characters from the movies.
15 ) Visit the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, one of the largest aquariums in the world
A visit to the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is a must-see for any traveler to Osaka. It is considered one of the largest aquariums in the world and offers visitors the opportunity to explore the diversity of marine life from around the globe, featuring 15 tanks representing different regions such as the Pacific Ocean, Antarctic, and the Great Barrier Reef. The main highlight is the massive Pacific Ocean tank where visitors can see a wide variety of ocean creatures such as sharks, rays and even a whale shark. The aquarium also offers a variety of interactive experiences such as touching pools where visitors can touch small sharks and rays. The Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is a great way to learn about marine life and ecology, it’s an entertaining and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
16) Visit the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine, known for its thousands of vermilion torii gates
A visit to the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine is a must-do for any traveler to Kyoto. The shrine is known for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, which form a path leading up to the main shrine. The torii gates were donated by individuals and businesses as a form of wishing for prosperity and success. The shrine is dedicated to Inari, the god of rice and prosperity, and the path leading to the main shrine, the so-called Senbon torii, is about 4 km long. Along the path, there are also many sub-shrines and small souvenir shops, where you can find traditional Inari amulets and other souvenirs.
17) Visit the Kyoto Imperial Palace, the former residence of the emperor of Japan
A visit to the Kyoto Imperial Palace is a great way to learn about the history of Japan’s Imperial family and the traditional architecture. The palace was the residence of the Emperor of Japan from the 14th to the 19th century and is located within the Kyoto Gyoen National Garden. The palace is surrounded by beautiful gardens and is a great place to take a stroll and enjoy nature. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the palace which offers an interesting glimpse into the lifestyle and customs of the Imperial family.
18) Take a stroll through the streets of Kanazawa, a well-preserved city known for its traditional architecture and gardens
A stroll through the streets of Kanazawa is a must-do for any traveler looking to experience traditional Japanese culture and architecture. The city is located in the Ishikawa prefecture and is well-preserved and known for its traditional architecture, especially in the Higashichaya, Kazue-machi, and Naga-machi districts. The city is also famous for its well-manicured gardens, including the Kenroku-en Garden, which is one of the three most beautiful traditional gardens in Japan.
19) Visit the beautiful temples and gardens of Kamakura, an ancient capital city located just south of Tokyo
A visit to the beautiful temples and gardens of Kamakura is a great way to experience the ancient capital city of Japan. The city is located just south of Tokyo and it’s known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The most iconic attraction is the Great Buddha, a giant bronze statue located at the Kotoku-in temple. Other famous temples and shrines include the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine and the Hase-dera Temple, known for its beautiful gardens and the view of the sea. Visitors can also take a hike to the top of the hill to see the beautiful views of the city and sea.
20) Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum, dedicated to the victims of the atomic bombing in 1945
A visit to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum is a must-do for anyone interested in learning about the history of the atomic bombing that occurred in 1945. The park is dedicated to the victims of the bombing and serves as a reminder of the devastation and loss of life caused by the atomic bomb. Visitors can see the ruins of the A-Bomb Dome, one of the few buildings left standing in the immediate aftermath of the bombing, the Children’s Peace Monument, and the Memorial Cenotaph.
21) Explore Hiroshima’s Miyajima Island and its iconic “floating” torii gate
Exploring Hiroshima’s Miyajima Island is a must-do for any traveler to Japan. The island, located just off the coast of Hiroshima, is picturesque and known for its beautiful natural landscapes, and historical and cultural landmarks. The main attraction is the Itsukushima Shrine, a Shinto shrine that is famous for its “floating” torii gate which appears to be floating on the water during high tide. The island is also home to the Daisho-in Temple, and Mount Misen, the island’s highest point, where you can take a ropeway to enjoy beautiful views of the Seto Inland Sea.
22) Attend a traditional tea ceremony in Kyoto
Attending a traditional tea ceremony in Kyoto is a great way to immerse oneself in Japanese culture. The tea ceremony, known as chanoyu or sado, is an ancient ritual that is steeped in tradition and etiquette. The ceremony is typically performed in a traditional tea room or a tea house, with a host or master who will guide you through the steps of the ceremony. You will learn about the history and customs of the ceremony, as well as the proper way to prepare and enjoy the tea. A traditional tea ceremony is also a great opportunity to appreciate the beauty of traditional Japanese art such as flower arrangement, calligraphy, and ceramics.
23) Walk around the Hiroshima Castle
Walking around the Hiroshima Castle is a great way to experience the history and culture of the city of Hiroshima. The Castle is a large complex that was built in the 16th century and it served as a fortress and residence for the local lords. The original castle was destroyed by the atomic bombing in 1945, but it has been rebuilt and it now serves as a museum where you can learn about the history of the castle, the local lords and the city of Hiroshima. The castle offers a good view of the city and the surrounding area from its top floor, and also it’s surrounded by beautiful gardens and moats.
24) Visit Tokyo and explore Shinjuku district
Visiting Tokyo and exploring the city’s many districts is a great way to experience the diversity of Japan’s capital city. One of the most popular districts to visit is Shinjuku, which is known for its bustling streets, lively atmosphere, and nightlife. Shinjuku is also home to some of the city’s most popular tourist attractions such as the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building which offers free observation decks with a panoramic view of the city and the famous Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, a large park with traditional Japanese gardens and greenhouses.
25) Tokyo Disneyland: One of the most popular theme parks in the world, Disneyland offers a wide variety of rides and entertainment
Tokyo Disneyland is one of the most popular theme parks in the world, it’s a magical place for visitors of all ages. The park offers a wide variety of rides, attractions, parades and entertainment. From thrilling roller coasters to gentle rides for kids, you’ll find something for everyone. The park is divided into seven different lands, including Adventureland, Tomorrowland, and Fantasyland, each with their unique theme and experiences. Tokyo Disneyland is also famous for its many parades and spectacular night-time shows. The park also offers many souvenir shops and restaurants, so visitors can fully immerse in the Disney experience. The park is easily accessible by train and bus and it’s one of the most visited tourist attraction in Japan.