Planning a trip to Japan. Here is a list of suggested things to do to make sure you immerse in the Japanese culture during your visit. You will find several of these are included in the price on our Japan tours.
15. Explore the Grandeur of Mt. Fuji on a Bullet Train: The Shinkansen, or “bullet train”, is unmatched in design, comfort and speed. At 186 mph, these trains allow ease of intra-country transportation with the awe of futuristic design and amenities of first-class travel.
14. Experience Traditional Accommodations: Stay overnight at a ryokan and experience the tranquil minimalism of Japanese luxury. Built with only 10-20 rooms, these “inns” pride themselves on impeccable service and cuisine that highlights only the finest seasonal delicacies.
13. Enjoy Relaxing In a Hot Spring. Take a dip into the natural hot springs throughout Japan, considered the best in the world. The natural minerals of these onsen are thought to have restorative properties, preventing illness and bringing about the equilibrium of a healthy body.
12. View Inspiring Architecture: For thousands of years, Japanese builders have endeavored to incorporate the natural world into structures, an aesthetic that remains paramount even today. The architectural fusion of art and function can be experienced throughout Japan, especially in places such as Tokyo’s Roppongi district.
11. The Ginza District: Did you know that Tokyo has more stars in the prestigious Michelin Guidebook than any other city in the world? Visit the Ginza district to taste everything from gourmet French cuisine, to kaiseki, a complete Japanese meal that changes with the seasons.
10. The Art of the Noodle: Taste the warm miso broth of ramen at the Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum in Yokohama. Some restaurant proprietors date their service back three generations, making this “food amusement park” a premier destination.
9. Sake of Niigata: The mountainous region of Niigata is known as a world-class ski destination. But with over 90 sake breweries in the region, it’s also informally known throughout Japan as the “Sake Kingdom.”
8. Immerse yourself in the Beauty of Japanese Gardens. Originally designed only for the feudal elite, Japanese gardens now instill peace in all who visit. Their colorful koi ponds, bubbling streams and meticulously groomed rock gardens will provide the senses with landscaped repose.
7. Learn the Ways of the Maiko. Many people are familiar with the art of the Geisha, but few know that before they become one, they must study as a maiko for a 5-year period. In the legendary Gion district of Kyoto, dinners can be arranged where maikos will serve food, teach proper Japanese customs, and demonstrate traditional Japanese dance.
6. Marvel at Majestic Castles. While the feudal system that ruled Japan has long disappeared, its gorgeous castles remain perfectly preserved. These ornate mega-structures of stone and wood are a beautiful reminder of the rich warrior history of Japan.
5. A Buddhist Escape: It has been said the eyes of Buddha will endow nature on those who seek it. The Danjo Garan, located on the top of Mount Koya, is one of the best examples of this practice. Home to more than 100 temples and shrines, this sacred sanctuary has served faithful Buddhists since 816 AD.
4. Summer Festivals: Summers in Japan bring warm weather, and festivities galore. Witness the spectacular luminance of Tokyo’s Sumida River Firework, or the 1,000 year-old Kyoto “Mobile-Art” parade, Gion Matsuri and the magnificent Awa Odori (dance) in Tokushima.
3. Experience the Beauty of Cherry Blossom Season: A picnic underneath a tree. The sweet fragrance of cherry blossoms wafting through the air. The flowers illuminated pink by the vernal moon. This custom of “flower viewing”, or hanami can be enjoyed in the springtime coupled with local food, beer and sake.
2. Attend the Theatre: The Japanese Way Contrary to popular belief, Kabuki theater is not the only show in town. Whether it’s the bombastic dramatic styling of Noh, or the traditional adult-themed puppetry of Bunraku, Japanese theater will promise to give New York’s Broadway a run for its money.
1. Tea Ceremony: Today, many Japanese still practice the tea ceremony as a spiritual balance to today’s hectic world. It is also revered for its lessons in elegant manners and etiquette, with many different schools practicing their own style of ceremony. Visitors can experience the tea ceremony, which features a special type of powdered green tea, at several hotels with tea rooms (most notably in Tokyo), at many of Japan’s famous landscape gardens and at tea-ceremony schools.
WHERE TO BEGIN? Contact our experts to learn more about Japan tours or browse through our selection of Japan guided and independent vacations.
Japan offers an endlessly rich cultural experience for travelers. Our advisors’ comprehensive Tokyo Japan guide is your gateway to planning the perfect Japanese adventure.
