Planning a trip to Japan but don’t know where to start? I’m sure some of the best things to do in Japan have been on your bucket list for years. But if you need more inspiration, here are 20 unforgettable experiences you cannot miss while in Japan. I already did most of the legwork for you so you can stop wondering what to do in Japan and focus on planning the trip of a lifetime instead.
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Every article about Japan I’ve ever written was essentially just one epic love story on repeat. This one is no different. Because you see, there are countless thrilling things to do and awe-inspiring places to visit in Japan and I could write about it forever.
In my experience, Japan always guarantees a good time regardless of the season, company or budget. And with so many interesting things to see in Japan, it’s super easy to have one memorable experience after another.
I always leave Japan with a suitcase full of wonderful memories. Yet my list of must-see attractions in Japan is only growing longer.
This is due in part to the amazing Japanese people and their fascinating customs and culture. But of course, the mouthwatering food, incredible architecture, and gorgeous scenery have a lot to do with it as well.
You can never run out of unusual things to do in Japan. So book your tickets, pack your bags and prepare for the trip of your life because falling in love with Japan is inevitable.
It’s surprising how resourceful this country is. You can always find a new temple worth an hour of your time or a festival to delight in a diverse array of sounds and flavors. Here I compiled a list of unique things to do in Japan that you can’t do anywhere else.
Experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony
The Japanese tea ceremony is characterized by both simplicity and precision and takes years of training to master. Nothing is random and even the angle at which each object is placed has great importance. The ritual also changes with the seasons.
The tea ceremony originated in Zen Buddhism in 9th century Japan. You can learn more about this ancient practice and sip your matcha tea in a Zen setting either while visiting Kyoto or Osaka.
See a geisha (or maiko) perform
Geishas are artists and entertainers. Their role is to perform dances, play the shamisen (three-cord musical instrument), as well as play drinking games and chat with their customers. Contrary to what some may believe, geishas are not prostitutes.
While in the past their customers were exclusively male, nowadays both men and women can enjoy an evening in the company of a geisha.
If you want to experience this cultural phenomenon nearing extinction, you can book a geisha performance with lunch in Tokyo or a maiko (geisha apprentice) performance with dinner in Kyoto.