Japan is one of the most popular travel destinations in Asia. It is known for being rich in culture and arts, it also houses over 25 UNESCO World Heritage sites including Itsukushima Shrine, Atomic Bomb Dome, Himeji Castle, and many more. Aside from these, the country is also popular for having disciplined citizens, a high commitment to innovation, sparkling neon lights around the streets, and mouthwatering cuisine. To further explore the picturesque land of Japan, listed below are the top things to do in this country.
10 Hike In Mount Fuji
Known for being the highest and active volcano in Japan – Mount Fuji is considered a sacred wonder of the Shinto region. If tourists are adventurous enough, climbing Mt. Fuji must be on the bucket list. Despite being active, Mt. Fuji is safe to climb, in fact, the hike in Yoshida is also available for novice hikers. Along the way, hikers will find various shops and centers and they can always choose one or all the four main trails.
9 The Cherry Blossom
One of the most popular festivals in the world is the Cherry Blossom Festival, or locally known as the “Hanami Festival”. The festival takes place in the regions of the country every spring season once Ume and Sakura flowers start to bloom. Most tourists would visit during the spring season just to witness this natural phenomenon and would take photos for the gram. Cherry blossoms can also be viewed via cruise or boat tour, it usually costs 800 yen per half an hour.
8 Watch A Sumo Show
Japan is known for its sumo wrestling sports, surprisingly, it is one of the most fun things to enjoy in the country. It is being held in Kokugikan Stadium wherein a lot of attractions can also be visited nearby including museums, cafes, galleries, and local restaurants. If visitors would watch in the morning, it would be free for the fight is merely a practice match. If tourists are curious enough, there is a sumo museum situated within the area wherein it displays things that explain the historical background of sumo wrestling.
7 Explore Nijo Castle
The first military dictator resided in Nijo Castle in Kyoto during the period of Edo. The castle was built in the 17th century and is the only palace that was built on ground level. The castle is surrounded by lush green trees, a beautiful garden, and guarded by stone walls. Trees can be seen in the garden of the ground are Sakura, Ginkgo, and Maple trees. The best time to visit here is during the fall season in November. The castle is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM and is specifically located in Horikawa nishi iru, Nijo-Dori, Nakagyo-Ku, Kyoto.
6 Visit Magnificent Restaurants
A trip to Japan will not be complete without savoring the delicate Japanese cuisine in various restaurants. The most popular pancake in Japan is the Okonomiyaki, a unique pancake with vegetables filled with sauce. A highly guaranteed restaurant that serves this delicacy is in Sometaro, Asakusa. Another go-to place by tourists especially after a long flight is the Ichiran Ramen. Most customers here are foreigners, the restaurant also has a unique and instagrammable interior and theme.
5 Try The Tempozan Ferris Wheel
Tempozan Ferris Wheel in Osaka is one of the largest operating Ferris wheels around the world. The ride takes its passengers to have a birds-eye view of the entire Osaka featuring the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, Mount Ikoma, and Rokko mountains. At night, the Ferris Wheel gives mesmerizing lights which are perfect for taking photos, it is also more romantic featuring the night lights and twinkling stars. The ride takes 15 minutes and is quite expensive, kids are also allowed to ride.
4 Have Fun In DisneySea
A perfect activity for the entire day is feeling like a kid again at Japan’s DisneySea. It is located in 1-13 Maihama, Urayasu, Chiba 279-0031 featuring fun rides, wonderful structures, and Broadway shows. Adults can also sip 1920s cocktails. Disneyland Tokyo Park is also located just next to DisneySea, it features more attractions, parades, and shows. Disneyland Tokyo is one of the best theme parks in the world. The park is open from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM. For ticket reservations, check the website for the latest information.
3 Wander Around The Universal Studios Japan
Aside from the popular Disneyland Tokyo Park, Japan also boasts its version of Universal Studios. There are over 64 attractions for visitors of all ages. Guests can take a photo with Minions and Peanuts characters of Peanuts at Greeting Gallery. It also features 3D and 4D viewing. Available movies to watch include Sesame Street 4D Movie Magic, Shrek’s 4D Adventure, Terminator 2: 3D, and Spider-Man 4k3D. For Potter Heads, Harry Potter World is a perfect attraction to explore.
2 Soak In Hot Springs
Part of the Japanese culture is a hot spring bath, which is why it is one of the must things to do when visiting the country. Hot Springs are scattered all over the country, so it would not be a problem on what city the tourist is visiting. The pools are separated for males and females, there are also indoor hot springs for a more private bath. The top hot spring bath resort in Japan is the Kusatsu Onsen in Gunma Prefecture.
1 Take A Photo Of Shibuya Crossing
The Shibuya Crossing is one of the most favorite spots of photographers and travelers that love to take photos. Over 2,500 people cross the street in less than an hour or so every time the traffic light stops the vehicles, making it the busiest street in the world. Travelers and photographers would take photos while crossing, and the best time to do this is at night where neon lights keep the city alive.