Curator’s statement
Japan holds a special place in my heart, as I had the incredible opportunity to live and study there for six months. During my time in Japan, I fell in love with its unique culture, the warmth and kindness of its people, the exquisite and diverse cuisine, and the breathtaking natural landscapes. The concept of "omotenashi"—the Japanese spirit of selfless hospitality — deeply resonated with me and exemplified the country's graciousness and attention to detail. Every corner of Japan, from its bustling cities to its serene countryside, offers new and unforgettable experiences. This beautiful country will always be more than just a travel destination to me. It’s a place that profoundly shaped my perspective and left an indelible mark on my soul.
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Things to do in Japan
Temples and Historical Sites
Fushimi Inari Shrine (Kyoto)
Description: Thousands of vermilions torii gates, 4 km hike up Mount Inari.
Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon. Autumn for foliage; winter for serenity.
Todai-ji (Nara)
Description: Great Buddha, UNESCO site with massive wooden hall.
Best Time: Spring and autumn, early morning.
Natural Wonders
Day Trip to Nikko
Description: Toshogu Shrine, Kegon Falls, Lake Chuzenji.
Best Time: Autumn for foliage; spring for blossoms.
Okinawa Beaches
Description: Clear waters, coral reefs, top beaches like Emerald Beach.
Best Time: Summer; spring and autumn for fewer crowds.
Outdoor Activities
Skiing at Hakuba (Nagano)
Description: Excellent ski slopes, 1998 Winter Olympics host.
Best Time: Winter, peak season January-February.
Surfing in Enoshima
Description: Great waves, Mount Fuji views.
Best Time: Summer; early autumn for fewer crowds.
Culinary Experiences
Tsukiji Outer Market (Tokyo)
Description: Fresh seafood, street food, sushi.
Best Time: Early morning.
Dotonbori (Osaka)
Description: Nightlife, street food like takoyaki, neon lights.
Best Time: Evening; autumn for comfortable temps.
Urban Exploration
Shibuya Crossing (Tokyo)
Description: Busiest pedestrian crossing, great views.
Best Time: Early evening; spring for pleasant weather.
Odaiba (Tokyo)
Description: Man-made island, futuristic attractions, shopping.
Best Time: Year-round, best in spring and autumn. Evenings for bridge views.
Relaxation and Nature
Onsen in Hakone
Description: Hot springs with Mount Fuji views.
Best Time: Autumn for foliage; winter for cozy experience.
Insider Tips
Cherry Blossoms in Ueno Park (Tokyo)
Description: Hanami season, over 1,000 cherry trees.
Best Time: Late March to early April, arrive early.
Gion District (Kyoto)
Description: Historic geisha district, traditional tea houses.
Best Time: Evening; spring and autumn for strolling.
Day Trips:
Naoshima Island (From Okayama or Takamatsu)
Description: Known as Japan’s “art island” with contemporary art museums and sculptures. Must-visits include the Benesse House Museum and Chichu Art Museum.
Best Time: Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November).
Tip: Rent a bike to explore at your own pace.
Itsukushima (Miyajima Island) (From Hiroshima)
Description: Famous for the floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine and scenic hikes up Mount Misen.
Best Time: Spring (April-May) and autumn (October-November).
Tip: Stay until evening to see the illuminated torii gate at high tide.
Hiroshima (From Osaka or Kyoto)
Description: Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum. Also, explore Hiroshima Castle and Shukkeien Garden.
Best Time: Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November).
Tip: Try Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at Okonomimura.
Yakushima (From Kagoshima)
Description: UNESCO site with ancient cedar forests and the Jomon Sugi tree.
Best Time: Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November).
Tip: Wear proper hiking gear; weather changes frequently.
Miyakojima or Yoron Island (From Naha, Okinawa)
Description: Pristine beaches and vibrant marine life. Miyakojima’s Yonaha Maehama Beach and Yoron’s Yurigahama Beach are highlights.
Best Time: Summer (June-August).
Tip: Rent a car or scooter to explore hidden beaches.
Shirakawa-go (From Takayama)
Description: UNESCO village with traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, picturesque in winter snow.
Best Time: Winter (December-February) or spring (April-May).
Tip: Stay overnight in a farmhouse for an immersive experience.
Fujikawaguchiko (From Tokyo)
Description: Near Mount Fuji, perfect for views from Lake Kawaguchi, hot springs, and seasonal festivals.
Best Time: Spring (April-May) and autumn (October-November).
Tip: Visit Chureito Pagoda for panoramic views.
Yokohama (From Tokyo)
Description: Known for its waterfront, Chinatown, and the Cup Noodles Museum. Sankeien Garden offers a tranquil escape.
Best Time: Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November).
Tip: Stroll along Minato Mirai waterfront in the evening.
Kobe (From Osaka or Kyoto)
Description: Famous for Kobe beef, with attractions like Kobe Harborland, Kitano district, and Arima Onsen.
Best Time: Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November).
Tip: Take the Shin-Kobe Ropeway to Nunobiki Herb Garden for city views.
Zao Onsen (From Yamagata)
Description: Renowned hot spring and ski resort with "snow monsters" and excellent slopes.
Best Time: Winter (December-March), peak for snow monsters from mid-January to late February.
Tip: View illuminated snow monsters at night via the Zao Ropeway; relax in outdoor baths after skiing.
Places to eat & drink in Japan
Breakfast
Rainbow Pancakes (Harajuku): Fluffy, colorful pancakes with various syrups and fruit. Arrive early to avoid long waits.
Lunch & Dinner
Zauo Shibuya: Catch your own fish and have it prepared in various styles. Try sashimi, tempura, and grilled.
Udon Shin (Shinjuku): Handmade udon noodles in rich broths. Curry udon is popular.
Fuunji (Shinjuku): Famous for tsukemen (dipping noodles). Arrive early to avoid long lines.
Sushi Zanmai: Quality, affordable sushi available 24/7 at various locations.
Yakitori Imai (Shibuya): Grilled chicken skewers. Try the chef’s selection.
Den (Jimbocho): Modern kaiseki with playful presentation. Reserve in advance.
Shabusen Ginza: Shabu-shabu (hot pot) with high-quality meats. Try the all-you-can-eat option.
Uguisudanien (Yanaka): Traditional Japanese dishes. Grilled fish set meals recommended.
Nightlife
Ce La Vi (Shibuya): Rooftop bar with stunning views and live music. Visit at sunset.
Womb (Shibuya): Large nightclub with international DJs. Check the schedule for events.
BAIA (Shibuya): Upscale nightclub with a vibrant atmosphere. Dress smartly.
Golden Gai (Shinjuku): Over 200 tiny bars, great for bar-hopping.
Rise Ginza: Sophisticated bar with premium whiskies and cocktails. Try their signature cocktails.
Need to know
Tokyo Disneyland
Description: Classic Disney experience with themed lands like Adventureland, Fantasyland, and Tomorrowland. Iconic rides include "It's a Small World," "Space Mountain," and "Pirates of the Caribbean."
Best Time: Weekdays in off-season (Jan-Feb, Sep-Oct).
Tip: Arrive early and use Disney FastPass to avoid long lines.
Tokyo DisneySea
Description: Unique ocean-themed park with areas like Mediterranean Harbor and Mermaid Lagoon. Key attractions are "Journey to the Center of the Earth" and "Tower of Terror."
Best Time: Weekdays in off-season. Autumn (Oct-Nov) offers pleasant weather.
Tip: Watch the nighttime show "Fantasmic!" at Mediterranean Harbor.
Universal Studios Japan (Osaka)
Description: Features attractions based on movies like "Harry Potter" and "Jurassic Park." The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a highlight.
Best Time: Weekdays, off-season (Jan-Feb, late Sep). Avoid holidays and school breaks.
Tip: Buy an Express Pass to skip lines. Enjoy seasonal events like Halloween Horror Nights.
Sumo Experience in Japan
Sumo Stables (Beya) Visit
Description: Visit sumo stables to see morning practice (keiko) and learn about wrestlers' daily lives.
Tip: Book tours in advance.
Sumo Tournaments
Description: Six major tournaments held yearly in Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka. Experience the excitement and rituals of sumo wrestling.
Tip: Learn the rules beforehand to enhance appreciation.
Sumo Museum
Description: Located in Tokyo's Ryogoku district, showcasing sumo history and artifacts. Admission is usually free.
Chanko Nabe
Description: High-protein hot pot dish popular among sumo wrestlers. Try it at sumo stables or specialized restaurants.
Sumo Souvenirs
Description: Find sumo-related merchandise like figurines and traditional wooden sandals.
Onsen Guide (Types of Onsen)
Rotenburo: Outdoor baths with scenic views.
Ashiyu: Foot baths, often free in public areas.
Kashikiri: Private baths for individual or family use.
Sento: Public bathhouses with heated tap water.
Onsen Etiquette
Clean Yourself First: Wash thoroughly before entering.
No Swimsuits: Bathe naked; use a small towel for modesty outside the bath.
Respect Others: Keep noise down and avoid splashing.
Tattoos: Check the onsen’s policy as some restrict tattoos.
Recommended Onsen Locations
Hakone Onsen (Kanagawa): Scenic views of Mount Fuji.
Kusatsu Onsen (Gunma): Renowned for healing properties.
Beppu Onsen (Oita): Known for diverse hot spring baths.
Noboribetsu Onsen (Hokkaido): Various types of hot springs.
Travel Advisor
Santiago Romo
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Japan. For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Adeline Kuroki's guide, History and Culture in Japan.