Experience over 20 exciting activities to try when visiting Japan

Blending modern and traditional culture beautifully, Japan is an unmissable travel destination. It's a place where you can indulge in activities like admiring nature or savoring unique cuisines. To help make your trip unforgettable, Mytour has curated a list of 20+ exciting things to try when visiting Japan.

Festivities at Japan's Year-Round Festivals

With around 200,000 festivals (matsuri) taking place year-round, you can enjoy celebrations almost anywhere and anytime. This makes it one of the first exciting activities to experience when traveling to Japan. For a romantic winter evening with fireworks and lanterns, don't miss the enchanting Chichibu Night Festival! If you prefer summer nights, head to Aomori Nebuta Matsuri, where hundreds of mythical creatures parade through the streets. A local has recently recommended visiting the Shimokitazawa Curry Festival, which features over 100 vendors from across Japan.

From small roadside temples to grand, towering ones, Tokyo is filled with ancient reminders of its spiritual heritage. You’ll encounter the local mystical legends on a spooky guided tour around the city. Or for a truly eerie experience, listen to the locals’ stories about visiting the haunted Aoyama Cemetery during the Obon season.

Hot spring bath – Onsen

Soaking in hot springs is a long-standing part of Japanese culture. As a deeply relaxing experience, it’s one of the exciting activities you must try when traveling to Japan. With its rich supply of mineral-rich hot springs, Japan is one of the world leaders in this natural therapy. Across the country, there are around 150 major hot springs and 1,400 smaller ones, giving visitors the chance to enjoy this service wherever they go.

Some famous hot spring destinations in Japan include:

• Kusatsu Onsen (Gunma Prefecture)
• Beppu Onsen (Kyushu Island)
• Kurokawa Onsen (Kumamoto Prefecture)
• Hakone Onsen (Kanagawa Prefecture)
• Noboribetsu Onsen (Hokkaido)
• Gero Onsen (Gifu Prefecture)
• Onsen area at Lake Kawaguchiko (Saitama Prefecture)
• View of Mount Fuji

Mount Fuji, Japan's tallest peak and an iconic symbol, offers travelers stunning sightseeing opportunities. Arakurayama Sengen Park is one of the most popular spots to view the mountain, where you can enjoy the sight of the peak alongside a magnificent temple. Lake Ashinoko in Hakone is another notable spot, featuring a giant torii gate rising from the water and pirate ship tours.

If you're short on time, you can catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji from Tokyo itself, such as from the Tokyo Skytree, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, or the Carrot Tower in Setagaya. The view of Mount Fuji is often obscured by clouds, especially during the rainy season, so be sure to check the weather before planning your trip to see the mountain.

Try Ramen at Ganso Ramen Yokocho

Among the many ramen shops across Japan, Sapporo stands out for its large number of high-quality establishments. It has become a "paradise" for ramen lovers. Thus, trying this dish is definitely one of the exciting activities to experience when traveling to Japan. Sapporo ramen is characterized by its rich and flavorful miso-based broth, paired with moderately thick, curly noodles, often accompanied by corn, vegetables, and a bit of butter.

You can find top-notch Sapporo ramen at various locations throughout the city, but Ganso Ramen Yokocho in Sapporo is where the most ramen shops are concentrated. Known as the "ramen alley," this area in the Susukino entertainment district draws food enthusiasts. It’s where you can savor the most famous ramen brands from Sapporo and Hokkaido, including well-known names like Shirakaba Sansou, Teshikaga Ramen, and Higuma.

Cherry Blossom Viewing – Hanami

From late March to early April, the streets, parks, and riverbanks of Japan are painted in vibrant pink as cherry blossoms bloom in full glory. During this period, the Japanese often hold "hanami" (flower viewing) parties to admire the beauty of spring and spend time with friends. Therefore, witnessing this stunning scenery is definitely one of the exciting experiences to try when traveling to Japan.

Whether you're traveling with a group or solo, don't forget to organize a hanami picnic by visiting a cherry blossom spot, picking up some snacks from nearby convenience stores, and spreading out a picnic mat to enjoy the flowers.

In addition, many cherry blossom-themed snacks and beverages are available during this season! Before you leave, make sure to clean up any litter from your picnic and double-check the park's opening hours and regulations.

Try Sushi

Eating raw fish may not be everyone's favorite, but if you’ve never tried it, sushi is definitely one of the exciting experiences to try when visiting Japan. Once a street food eaten by hand, sushi was sold by fish vendors offering thin slices of fish at places like the Tsukiji Market. Today, sushi has become a global sensation!

Sushi truyền thống của Nhật Bản là sự kết hợp tinh tế giữa hải sản, nước tương, wasabi và cơm dấm. Trong khi các cửa hàng quốc tế thường chuyên về các nhiều nguyên liệu phức tạp thì đầu bếp Nhật Bản lại chú trọng đến hương vị tự nhiên. Bạn có thể thưởng thức các cửa hàng sushi ở bất cứ đâu tại Nhật Bản. Nếu ngại thử, bạn có thể nếm thử vài đĩa tại nhà hàng sushi kaiten (băng chuyền). 

Đi dạo qua đường hầm hoa ở Kitakyushu

Hãy tận hưởng thế giới của mình trong những đường hầm hoa tử đằng ở Kitakyushu. Đây là nơi những bông hoa màu tím, hồng và oải hương rực rỡ trôi lững lờ từ trần nhà. Khu vườn này như một tác phẩm bước ra từ những trang truyện Alice in Wonderland. Vườn Kawachi Fuji mở cửa đón mùa hoa tử đằng vào mùa xuân và mùa thu lá phong. Trước khung cảnh lãng mạn đó thì chụp ảnh check in hẳn là điều thú vị nên thử khi du lịch Nhật Bản. Theo người dân địa phương, bạn nên mua vé trước từ 7-Eleven hoặc FamilyMart.

Mỗi mùa xuân, hoa anh đào thu hút du khách từ khắp nơi trên thế giới trong thời gian hoa nở rộ. Đối với người Nhật, mùa hoa anh đào là cơ hội để dành thời gian bên bạn bè, gia đình và đồng nghiệp. Họ tổ chức lễ hanami (ngắm hoa) bằng cách tổ chức một buổi dã ngoại hoặc nướng thịt và thư giãn dưới bóng mát của những cánh hoa. 

Tìm hiểu về thung lũng núi lửa Owakudani

Điều thú vị nên thử khi du lịch Nhật Bản tiếp theo là khám phá thung lũng núi lửa Owakudani là một trải nghiệm đặc biệt. Thung lũng này là kết quả của đợt phun trào cuối cùng của núi lửa Hakone, cách đây khoảng 3.000 năm. Du khách sẽ được chứng kiến những cột khói trắng bốc lên từ núi lửa, thưởng thức luộc trứng trong hồ suối nước nóng và dùn món trứng trường thọ Kurotamago.

Việc sử dụng tàu cao tốc Shinkansen giúp cho việc đi lại trong nước Nhật trở nên thuận tiện hơn bao giờ hết. Các chuyến tàu Shinkansen được trang bị công nghệ tiên tiến, hứa hẹn mang đến cho bạn những trải nghiệm tuyệt vời nhất. Có nhiều tuyến Shinkansen nối các thành phố lớn từ phía Nam Kyushu đến phía Bắc Hokkaido.

Hầu hết các tàu Shinkansen ở Nhật Bản chạy với tốc độ trên 200 km/h nhưng vẫn mang lại cảm giác êm ái. Trước khi lên Shinkansen, bạn cũng có thể mua một hộp cơm trưa "ekiben" tại nhà ga để thưởng thức trong chuyến đi của mình.

Watch a Kabuki Performance

Watching a Kabuki performance is one of the exciting activities to try when visiting Japan. Kabuki is a traditional form of drama that combines acting, dancing, and singing, originating in the early Edo period (1603-1867) and flourishing in the mid-18th century. Kabuki actors typically perform on stage in colorful costumes with heavy makeup in specially designed theaters featuring revolving stages and unique entrances known as 'kabuki-za.'

Kabuki plays cover a wide range of themes and genres. From reenacting historical events to portraying the lives of common people in ancient Japan, traditional Japanese dance, and even modern dramas featuring anime characters! Although not as popular as during its golden age, Kabuki remains a beloved cultural symbol of Japan.

The Tokyo Kabukiza Theater in Ginza hosts performances throughout the week, offering English translations. There are also Kabuki theaters in Osaka, Kyoto, Fukuoka, and various other locations.

Try Peach Tea in Kyoto

Tea culture in Kyoto is a traditional practice in Japan and is one of the exciting things to try when visiting Japan. Kyoto is a city with a unique atmosphere, known for its long history and many beautiful temples that attract visitors.

To gain a deeper understanding of Japan's unique culture, you can participate in a traditional tea ceremony at Maikoya. Here, visitors are guided through the steps of tea preparation and learn about the profound cultural significance it holds.

Wearing a Kimono or Yukata is a fascinating experience when in Japan. The Kimono is a traditional outfit typically worn on special occasions or celebrations. The term 'kimono' in Japanese means 'clothing,' referring to all types of traditional garments suited for various events, genders, seasons, and ages.

Yukata is a lighter version of the kimono, typically made from cotton or polyester and designed with fewer layers, making it more suitable for summer wear. Foreigners are welcome to wear yukata/kimono as well.

Japan has many stores offering traditional outfit rental services. With several layers and intricate cords to tie, you will likely need professional help to properly wear the kimono or yukata! Once dressed in your kimono or yukata, take a stroll through an old town in Japan to immerse yourself in the classic atmosphere!

Visit Famous Castles

Visiting Japan's famous castles is one of the exciting experiences to try when traveling in Japan. Across the country, you'll find ancient castles waiting to be explored. Visiting these castles is a popular activity for tourists when they visit various regions in Japan.

Many castles today have been destroyed or rebuilt due to natural disasters and modernization. However, 12 original castles built during or before the Edo period (1603-1867) have survived and remain exceptionally well preserved.

These castles reflect the characteristics and architecture of Japan's feudal era. Notable castles worth visiting include the "castle in the sky" Bitchu Matsuyama in Okayama. You can also visit Matsumoto Castle in Nagoya, which features a maze-like design, or Himeji Castle in Hyogo, the largest castle in Japan.

Join Japanese Cooking Classes

In Japan, there are a variety of cooking classes offered, beyond just the popular sushi-making lessons. As one of the exciting activities to try when visiting Japan, participating in these classes will provide a deeper understanding of the country's culinary culture. From preparing bento to experiencing Izakaya's two-course meals...

To fully immerse yourself in the experience, participating in a cooking class at a local's home is the best choice. In Kyoto, you can join cooking classes with local instructors in a Machiya house. Machiya is a traditional wooden house in Kyoto, offering the perfect setting to explore the lives of modern-day Japanese people.

After you’ve completed cooking and delved into the history and culture behind the dishes, you'll get to savor the meal you’ve crafted yourself!

Visit Kenrokuen Garden 

Visiting Kenrokuen Garden during the winter is a unique experience in Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture. Known as one of the most beautiful traditional gardens, Kenrokuen features landscapes designed in the Edo style. During winter, when snow blankets the surroundings, the garden's beauty becomes even more enchanting and mysterious, making it one of the must-see attractions when traveling to Japan.

Visitors can enjoy the garden's scenery by strolling around, admiring the landscape adorned with a blanket of snow. Afterward, you can relax with a hot cup of coffee, enhancing your appreciation of the captivating winter beauty of Japan.

In addition to castles and traditional buildings, Japan is home to thousands of shrines and temples. Shinto shrines are dedicated to the worship of kami, the deities of Shintoism, while Buddhist temples house sacred statues and host various Buddhist rituals and practices.

Although they share some similarities, shrines and temples are easy to distinguish: shrines typically feature a torii gate, which is a symbol of Shintoism. Temples, on the other hand, are more intricately decorated and often contain Buddhist statues and bells.

Despite their religious differences, shrines and temples often coexist harmoniously, with many temples incorporating Shinto elements, and vice versa. There are over 75,000 temples and 80,000 shrines across Japan, each with its own unique characteristics. Visitors can usually explore the grounds of most shrines for free, though some may charge a small fee.

Some of Japan's most renowned shrines include Ise Jingu in Mie, Itsukushima Shrine in Hiroshima, Meiji Jingu in Tokyo, and Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto. Other notable temples worth visiting include Kiyomizu-dera, Kinkakuji in Kyoto, Senso-ji in Tokyo, and Todai-ji in Nara.

Samurai Sword Dance

The Samurai sword dance is an integral part of Japan's history and the myths surrounding its legendary warriors. Samurai have become a cultural symbol of Japan, depicted through various art forms and folklore. Participating in this must-try experience when visiting Japan will deepen your understanding of this martial art.

The allure of the Samurai sword dance lies in its mystique and the captivating stories of their disciplined lives, built around a strict ethical code. Trained as elite warriors, samurai demonstrated their expertise through intricate and graceful sword movements, known as kembu, a form practiced not only for combat but also as a method of meditation.

Joining a Samurai sword dance class is a fantastic way to delve deeper into the ancient history of Japan. In these classes, you'll have the chance to wear a samurai outfit and learn the basics of kembu, providing you with a meaningful and enriching experience.

Explore Edo Handicrafts in Tokyo

Exploring Edo-era handicrafts in Tokyo is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Japan's cultural heritage from the Edo period. During this era, arts and culture flourished, and its influence is still strongly present today.

To learn more about this must-try experience when visiting Japan, you can gain a deeper understanding of Edo-era crafts. Visitors can explore the Edo Shitamachi Traditional Crafts Museum and the Asakusa district. Discovering and experiencing the vibrant Edo culture through unique handmade products will offer unforgettable memories in Japan.

If you want to directly engage in the process of creating handcrafted items, you can join craft classes. These classes offer visitors the opportunity to learn and practice traditional techniques such as Edo kiriko (cut glass) or Edo-style bamboo blinds. Both of these crafts are distinctive and provide a unique and enjoyable experience for visitors, allowing them to create special souvenirs with their own hands.

Shotengai, also known as "shopping streets," are famous shopping districts with a nostalgic atmosphere. While they may not feature high-end fashion items, Shotengai offers a wide variety of delicious food, local specialties, and affordable stores.

These shopping districts are widespread across neighborhoods and towns in Japan. Among the popular ones are Nakamise, Ameya-Yokocho, and Yanaka Ginza in Tokyo, Shinsaii-Suji in Osaka, Heiwa-dori in Atami, and Kawabata in Fukuoka, all of which attract many visitors.

Visit Tsukiji Market and Learn How to Make Sushi

Điều thú vị nên thử khi du lịch Nhật Bản tiếp theo là làm sushi. Thành phố này được biết đến như trung tâm sushi hàng đầu của Nhật Bản, với sự hiện diện của nhiều đầu bếp tài ba và nhà hàng được đánh giá cao, thậm chí là trong hệ thống sao Michelin. Một gợi ý tuyệt vời là tham gia vào một khóa học sushi tại đây, tìm hiểu về nguồn cung cấp nguyên liệu và quy trình làm sushi.

Hầu hết các loại cá và hải sản ở Tokyo đều được cung cấp từ Chợ Tsukiji, một trong những chợ hải sản bán buôn lớn và nổi tiếng nhất thế giới. Bạn có thể dạo bước qua các nhà kho đông đúc, nơi hàng ngày bán hơn 2.888 tấn hải sản, để hiểu cách lựa chọn những loại cá chất lượng nhất.

Sau khi khám phá Chợ Tsukiji, du khách có thể mang các sản phẩm tươi sống của mình đến nhà của một giáo viên địa phương để bắt đầu khóa học làm sushi. Để tạo ra những chiếc sushi ngon nhất, bạn cần những nguyên liệu tốt nhất từ địa phương. Từ hạt gạo được nấu chín hoàn hảo cho đến mù tạt và đậu nành chất lượng cao. Điều tuyệt vời nhất sau các bài học là khi bạn thưởng thức những món sushi do chính tay mình làm! 

Ăn thịt bò Wagyu

With a country renowned for its rich and diverse cuisine, trying delicious dishes is definitely a must-try experience when traveling to Japan. The demand for wagyu is incredibly high worldwide, but finding the true flavor like in Japan is a rare treat.

To be labeled as "wagyu", the meat must meet certain criteria. One of the most famous types of wagyu for foreign visitors is Kobe beef. Its tenderness and rich flavor don't come from massaging the cattle or making them drink beer; it's all due to genetics, which is why a meal can be quite expensive!

Admire the Bamboo Forest in Central Kyoto

The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is home to hundreds of bamboo trees and dozens of temples and shrines (built within the maze of bamboo to ward off evil spirits). The tranquil atmosphere of the bamboo forest contrasts with the hustle and bustle of urban Kyoto. Rising several meters high, the bamboo stalks create a soft rustling sound—a type of bamboo beloved by locals, and listed as one of Japan's '100 Soundscapes'.

Visit the Kyoto International Manga Museum

Reliving childhood through comic books is certainly a must-try experience when traveling to Japan. The Kyoto International Manga Museum holds an incredible collection of over 300,000 manga works and related materials. The collection spans from the Edo period (1603-1867), through the Meiji period (1868-1912), to modern popular comics, including Western comics! Visitors can enjoy over 50,000 manga titles for free in the 'Wall of Manga' area, with some editions available in English as well.

The exhibitions at the museum will give you a deeper understanding of the evolution of manga across different periods, as well as its strong connection to Japanese history and culture. Additionally, you will have the chance to participate in activities such as learning to draw manga or admiring professional manga artists at work.

Experience the Kotatsu Heated Table

Kotatsu là một trong những phần không thể thiếu trong hầu hết các ngôi nhà ở Nhật Bản. Đặc biệt là trong những tháng lạnh của mùa đông. Đây là thiết bị độc đáo được sử dụng để giữ cơ thể ấm áp, với cấu trúc đặc biệt của một chiếc bàn. Trên mặt bàn thường được trải một tấm chăn kiểu Nhật. Bên dưới là một hệ thống sưởi bằng điện, giúp phân phối nhiệt hiệu quả. Nên ngồi ăn giữa mùa đông với cảm giác ấm cúng cũng là điều thú vị nên thử khi du lịch Nhật Bản.

Kotatsu không chỉ là nơi để giữ ấm mà còn là điểm tập trung của các hoạt động gia đình, đặc biệt là trong các dịp lễ như năm mới. Gia đình thường tụ tập quanh kotatsu để thưởng thức các món ăn và tận hưởng không khí ấm áp. Bạn có thể trải nghiệm sử dụng kotatsu thông qua các hoạt động homestay hoặc bằng cách ghé thăm một ngôi nhà truyền thống Nhật Bản. Tuy nhiên, bạn không thể tìm thấy kotatsu ở hầu hết các khách sạn và nhà trọ tại đây.
Thưởng thức rượu sake và đồ uống nóng

Trong mùa đông, việc thưởng thức các đồ uống nóng là một trải nghiệm tuyệt vời. Rượu sake Nhật Bản là một trong lựa chọn phổ biến, đặc biệt trong những dịp như năm mới và các sự kiện quan trọng khác. Bạn có thể thử rượu sake ấm từ các loại sake Junmai của các thương hiệu như Kimoto và Yamaha.

Ngoài ra, một đồ uống nổi tiếng khác trong mùa đông là amazake. Amazake là một loại thức uống phổ biến quanh năm tại Nhật Bản, có thể được thưởng thức cả ở nhiệt độ lạnh và nóng. Món uống này nhẹ nhàng và ấm áp, rất thích hợp để thưởng thức trong những ngày lạnh giá. Với thành phần có lợi cho sức khỏe, amazake là một trong những món uống được yêu thích và có sẵn rộng rãi trong các siêu thị Nhật.

Try the Traditional Kaiseki Ryori

If your budget allows, don't miss the opportunity to experience one of Japan's traditional dishes – "kaiseki ryori." While you can find kaiseki at restaurants, the best experience is at a traditional ryokan inn with tatami rooms located in hot spring areas. Kaiseki ryori consists of a series of small dishes, each made with locally sourced seasonal ingredients. This uniqueness makes enjoying Kaiseki Ryori one of the must-try experiences when visiting Japan.

Though you can enjoy it in your own way, kaiseki dishes are typically served in a specific order. Starting with an appetizer "sakizuke," followed by dishes like sashimi "mukozuke," grilled items "yakimono," soup "suimono," simmered vegetables and meat "takiawase," hot pot "sukiyaki," rice, dessert, and more. Each dish is carefully crafted to complement the flavors of the others. The harmony of flavors in each course will surely leave you satisfied.

Watch the Fireworks Displays

Hundreds of spectacular fireworks displays take place throughout Japan all year round, with many events held during the Obon festival. The top three fireworks shows in Japan include:

• The Omagari Fireworks Festival in Akita in August.
• The Nagaoka Fireworks Festival in Niigata in August.
• The Tsuchiura All-Japan Fireworks Competition in Ibaraki in November.
• In the Tokyo area, the most famous fireworks festivals are:
• The Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival (July).
• The Adachi Fireworks Festival (May).
• The Edogawa Fireworks Festival (August).

Even during other times of the year, there are many impressive winter fireworks shows. Some notable ones include: The Atami Seaside Fireworks in Shizuoka, ISOGAI Fireworks in Nagoya, and the Snow Fireworks Festival in Otaru, Hokkaido. All these take place in December. So, if you're visiting Japan in winter, this is definitely one of the must-try experiences when traveling to Japan.
Note: Major events tend to attract large crowds, so you may have to wait a while before being able to catch a train to these events.

Meet a Real Geisha

A Geisha is an individual who studies and practices Japanese arts. Most Geishas today are women, though there is a small number of trained men as well. From a young age, Geishas learn various skills including dance, music, and the traditional tea ceremony, but their expertise lies in organizing dinner parties.

There are several ways you can immerse yourself in the Geisha culture in Japan. In Kyoto, you can attend public performances such as Miyako Odori in April and Gion Odori in November. Alternatively, you can visit Gion Corner Theatre, where multiple performances are held, including shows by maikos (apprentice Geishas). In Kyoto and beyond, you can also hire a Geisha for entertainment during meals through third-party services.

Stay at a Capsule Hotel

Capsule hotels in Japan resemble an invention straight out of a science fiction movie. Staying in a capsule hotel is one of the best ways to save money in major cities like Tokyo. Your personal compartment includes a bed and lighting. With various styles, ranging from rustic bunk beds to pods with automatic doors, this offers a completely unique way to experience the must-try experiences when traveling in Japan on a budget.

Admiring Japanese Plum Blossoms

Before the cherry blossom season begins, the plum flowers, or "ume" as they're called in Japanese, bloom in February with their sweet fragrance. These flowers mark the end of winter. Admiring the plum blossoms becomes a wonderful and enjoyable experience throughout Japan. It’s also a great opportunity to join in unique festivals related to this flower.

Especially in Kairakuen, located in Ibaraki Prefecture, you can see approximately 3,000 plum trees in full bloom from mid-February to the end of March. Additionally, the outskirts of Tokyo are also perfect places to admire these stunning plum blossoms.

Beyond simply enjoying the beauty of the plum blossoms, you have the chance to indulge your senses fully in the season. Another interesting point is to try the unique flavors of Japanese plum-inspired dishes such as onigiri and mochi. This will surely be a memorable experience for you.

With the exciting things to try when traveling to Japan listed above, you're sure to have an amazing experience. From exploring traditional culture to enjoying the local cuisine and visiting famous landmarks, every trip creates unforgettable memories. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore Japan and enjoy all the wonderful experiences it offers! Contact 028 3827 0404 with Mytour to get great discounts when booking a tour!