10 Experiences You Can't Miss
Japan is a country filled with experiences that can’t be replicated anywhere else. If you’re planning a trip, these incredible stops will help you build a Japan itinerary that captures the best of the country's culture, cuisine, landscapes and transportation.
1. Explore the Electric Energy of Tokyo
Tokyo is a world of striking contrasts, where centuries-old temples stand next to neon-lit skyscrapers. Start in the historic Asakusa district to visit Senso-ji Temple before wandering its market-lined streets. Move on to Shibuya Crossing—one of the busiest pedestrian intersections in the world—for a taste of Tokyo’s hyper-modern heartbeat. Dive into anime and gaming culture in Akihabara, savor incredible sushi in Tsukiji’s outer market or enjoy panoramic views from the Tokyo Skytree or Shibuya Sky.
Every neighborhood feels like its own mini city, and exploring several gives you a richer insight into Tokyo’s endless layers.
2. Visit the Cultural Classics in Kyoto
Kyoto offers an unparalleled look at Japan’s historic charm. The vermilion torii gates of Fushimi Inari weave up the mountainside, creating one of the most iconic walks in the country. At Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion reflects in its surrounding pond, shimmering in any season. Wander the atmospheric streets of Gion, where you may spot a geisha or maiko heading to an appointment. Kyoto’s temples—like Kiyomizu-dera, perched dramatically over the hillside—offer scenic views and peaceful moments. Adding a tea ceremony, kimono rental or traditional craft class will deepen your connection to Japan’s cultural heritage.
3. Taste Regional Foods in Every City You Visit
Japanese cuisine varies dramatically by region, making eating your way across the country a delightful part of any itinerary. In Tokyo, try fresh sushi, tempura and tonkatsu. Osaka, the country’s “Kitchen,” is famous for street foods like takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes). Kyoto’s kaiseki meals highlight local, seasonal ingredients with artful presentation.
Sample Hakata ramen in Fukuoka, miso ramen in Hokkaido, crispy gyoza in Utsunomiya and Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki layered with noodles. Even convenience stores like 7-Eleven and Lawson offer surprisingly delicious bento boxes, sandwiches and desserts that make quick meals memorable.
4. Ride the Shinkansen (Bullet Train)
Riding the shinkansen is a uniquely Japanese experience that blends comfort, efficiency and beauty. These bullet trains glide at speeds up to 320 km/h (200 mph), yet the ride is incredibly smooth. Large windows showcase sweeping scenery—from rice fields and small towns to mountains and coastline. Traveling between major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and Hiroshima becomes effortless, often faster than flying when you factor in airport transit. Consider purchasing a Japan Rail Pass if you’ll be using the train frequently; it allows unlimited travel on most JR lines and simplifies long-distance exploring.
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5. Add a Scenic Boat Cruise or Ferry Ride
Seeing Japan from the water adds tranquility and uniqueness to your trip. Tokyo Bay cruises offer stunning city views, especially during sunset or when the skyline lights up at night. In Hakone, boats crossing Lake Ashi provide postcard-perfect scenes of Mount Fuji on clear days. In Hiroshima, ferries to Miyajima Island glide along peaceful coastlines before delivering you to the iconic “floating” torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine.
Travelers with more time may enjoy a multi-day cruise around Japan’s coasts, where you can explore port towns, remote islands and lesser-known cultural sites that land itineraries often miss.
6. Spend a Night in a Traditional Ryokan
A ryokan stay provides an intimate window into Japanese hospitality. Rooms typically feature tatami flooring, sliding shoji doors and futon bedding that attendants lay out each evening. Guests are encouraged to wear yukata robes throughout the property, which enhances the relaxed atmosphere.
Many ryokans also include onsen (hot spring baths), perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing. Multi-course kaiseki dinners, often included in your stay, highlight the region’s best ingredients. This experience offers serenity, warmth and a deeper appreciation for traditional Japanese living.
7. Experience Osaka’s Fun and Flavorful Side
Osaka exudes personality. Dotonbori’s glowing signs and bustling walkways create a lively atmosphere where street food reigns supreme. Spend time sampling regional favorites from stall to stall, or explore Shinsekai, a retro district with a nostalgic charm. Visit Osaka Castle for a dose of local history, or ascend the Umeda Sky Building for a panoramic view of the city. Osaka is also a gateway to Nara—home to friendly deer, giant Buddha statues and some of Japan’s oldest temples—making it an excellent addition to your itinerary.
8. Explore Japan’s Natural Landscapes
Japan’s landscapes range from snow-capped peaks to volcanic valleys and tropical beaches. In Nikko, you’ll find lush forests, waterfalls and UNESCO temples hidden among the trees. The Japanese Alps offer breathtaking hikes, especially around Kamikochi and Hakuba. For geothermal wonders, visit Kyushu’s volcanic regions like Beppu or Mount Aso. If your timing lines up with cherry blossom season (spring) or fall foliage (autumn), you’ll witness some of the most stunning natural scenes the country has to offer.
9. Discover Historic and Spiritual Sites
Japan’s history is deep, layered and beautifully preserved. Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park offers a powerful and thoughtful experience. Himeji Castle, regarded as the finest in Japan, showcases medieval architecture at its most elegant. In Nara, Todai-ji Temple houses a massive bronze Buddha that inspires awe.
Meanwhile, Shirakawa-go’s thatched farmhouses and Takayama’s preserved Edo-era streets reveal what rural Japan looked like centuries ago. These places give your itinerary emotional depth and historical perspective.
10. Try Unique Cultural and Local Experiences
Japan is filled with experiences that immerse travelers in local life. Attend a sumo morning practice to watch wrestlers train up close. Join a cooking class to learn how to make sushi, tempura or Japanese sweets. Visit Naoshima, Japan’s famous “art island,” where outdoor sculptures and modern museums create a surreal environment. Ride themed trains with special interiors, explore hot spring towns like Kusatsu or Kinosaki or attend a festival if your travel dates align. These activities add personal connection and a sense of discovery to your journey.
A well-crafted Japan itinerary blends iconic attractions with immersive moments. Whether you’re tasting regional foods, soaking in a hot spring, watching city lights from a boat or gliding across the country by bullet train, Japan rewards curiosity and invites you to savor every moment. With these ten detailed experiences, your trip will be rich, balanced and unforgettable.