Best Things to Do in Japan: The Ultimate Guide

In just 11 unforgettable days, we journeyed through Japan’s rich tapestry of cities. This itinerary wasn’t about ticking boxes — it was about stitching together moments that reflected the country’s contrasts: modern and ancient, chaotic and calm, indulgent and spiritual. With careful planning, efficient train travel, and just enough spontaneity, we discovered how much you can truly experience in under two weeks.

Whether you’re chasing temples, tasting world-class cuisine, soaking in a private onsen, or gazing at Mount Fuji from a bullet train, Japan offers something deeply moving for every kind of traveller — and this guide captures the very best of it. Here are the best tips and the top things to do in Japan to maximise your journey.

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• When buying food at the market stalls, do not eat and walk as it is considered rude in their culture. Therefore, find a place to the side to enjoy your food, preferably with a trash can in sight. Japan is really clean but there aren’t many rubbish bins around.
• Slurp your noodles. Consequently, this expresses your enjoyment to the chef/owner and shows how much you fancy the meal. Be careful not to splash it everywhere!
• Bring your passport with you everywhere or you could get a ¥10000 fine and temporary detention. Passport is also handy for tax free shopping at applicable shops. You will see a clear sign displayed at the shops that offer this refund.
• You can use payWave or purchase a Suica card to travel the subways. Kyoto doesn’t have payWave at their barriers but Osaka does. As a result, we had to purchase tickets at Sanjo station to go to the Inari shrine. Additionally, look at the route map to determine how much the ticket is. Google maps will also tell you how much the journey should be.
• There are women only carriages which are also clearly marked on the platform. The carriage numbers are also marked. Google maps will advise which carriage to best get off at for your destination.
• You may need to cover up tattoos when visiting a public onsen. This is due to the stigma that tattoos are associated with crime and links to the Yakuza.
• One of Japan’s most underrated travel hacks is takuhaibin, the country’s ultra-reliable luggage forwarding service. For just ¥3,500, we shipped our suitcase to Tokyo from Kyoto, packing only essentials in a carry-on for Hakone. If staying at a hotel, it’s even easier — just ask the front desk to receive your luggage on your behalf. It’s seamless, secure, and saves you the hassle of dragging bags across platforms, stairs and buses.

There’s no better way to immerse yourself in Japanese hospitality than by staying at a luxurious ryokan in Hakone. Nestled in the mountains, Hakone offers the perfect blend of nature, relaxation, and refined tradition. A stay in a ryokan like Hakone Gora Byakudan elevates the experience — from tatami-lined rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, to your very own open-air hot spring bath overlooking lush forests.

You’ll slip into a yukata, sip on freshly brewed tea, and soak under the stars in complete privacy. It’s not just accommodation — it’s a deeply restorative ritual and a must-do for any Japan itinerary. Additionally, head to this One Night in Hakone post where we dive into the details of our wonderful one night stay in Hakone, as it was the highlight of our journey — an experience so special, it truly deserved its own spotlight.

Tucked away in the quieter side streets of Tokyo, Ichi-U delivers an omakase experience that masterfully balances intimacy and craftsmanship. The chef prepares each course with seasonal ingredients right before your eyes, treating every guest to a front-row view of his precision and artistry at the intimate counter. From melt-in-your-mouth toro to delicately balanced uni, every bite felt considered, personal, and deeply flavourful.

The setting is calm and refined, making it perfect for first-timers and sushi connoisseurs alike. Notably, we even had the chance to snap a photo with the master chef himself at the end of the evening — a perfect way to remember a meal we truly cannot recommend highly enough. Make sure to reserve a spot beforehand as you won’t want to miss this amazing omakase!

Just a short train ride from Kyoto, Nara Park and Todai-ji Temple offer a peaceful escape into Japan’s ancient past. As you wander through the expansive park, you’ll encounter hundreds of freely roaming deer, who have learned to bow in exchange for specially sold crackers. Unashamedly, it’s a charming and unforgettable experience. Just beyond the deer-filled paths lies Todai-ji Temple, home to one of the world’s largest bronze Buddha statues. The serene atmosphere, combined with centuries of cultural history, makes Nara an enriching day trip well worth your time.

We explored Nara and Uji as a day trip from Kyoto and share the full itinerary in a dedicated Best Day Trip From Kyoto post. Make sure you make a stop at Nakatanidou for the freshest mochi! They also have live mochi pounding shows so check with the staff on what time as you won’t want to miss it! We were lucky enough to get a front row view of the pandemonium.

Sushi Katsuya offers an exceptional sushi experience that captures the essence of traditional Japanese craftsmanship with a modern touch. Located in a cozy, intimate setting, this restaurant is renowned for its fresh, high-quality fish, where each piece features a generous ratio of sashimi to rice, highlighting the delicate, nuanced flavours of the seafood.

Sushi Katsuya delights with a diverse menu that showcases both classic and innovative rolls. The attentive service and authentic flavours make it a standout choice. Choosing a favourite was tough, but the scallop and sea urchin truly stood out for me. At an unbeatable price of only ¥5500 per person, it was truly a meal that we will always remember!

Dining at Kobe Beef Steak Sakura was an unforgettable experience that truly showcased why Kobe beef is celebrated worldwide. From the moment the first slice touched my palate, the rich marbling and delicate, buttery texture made it clear this was no ordinary steak. Our chef prepared each cut with expert precision, allowing the natural flavours to shine without overwhelming seasoning.

Cooked right before our eyes, every bite felt like a luxurious indulgence — an exquisite balance of tenderness, juiciness, and umami. Check out full details of our amazing day trip from our Best Day Trip from Osaka post.

Capturing timeless memories with a kimono photoshoot in Asakusa is an unforgettable way to experience Japan’s rich cultural heritage. Asakusa’s historic streets, vibrant temples, and traditional shops create the perfect backdrop for stunning photos that blend old-world charm with personal style. Wearing a beautifully crafted kimono, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time while skilled photographers capture your every pose.

Our photographer Duan made the session really enjoyable and her pose suggestions ensured we didn’t have to think. You can hire the kimonos for the whole day, not just for the photoshoot, turning fleeting moments into lasting memories.

We booked ours with Klook and would highly recommend the provider. The experience was top notch from beginning to the end, staff were unbelievably friendly and professional. We really had the best time even in the rain!

Tokyo’s legendary Tsukiji Market is a must-visit for anyone craving the freshest seafood experience. With vibrant stalls brimming with glistening seafood, the market pulses with energy and authentic flavours. Sampling delicacies like succulent uni (sea urchin), buttery toro (fatty tuna), and perfectly briny oysters straight from the sea creates an unforgettable culinary adventure.

We had these fresh scallops cooked with a flaming torch and they were to die for. This market also has a ton of other food options so make sure to plan enough time for wandering around and tasting all the yummy food!

Begin your day the Osaka way at Udon Kyutaro, where locals line up early for bowls of piping-hot, handmade udon that set the bar sky-high. Each strand is freshly pulled and boasts a satisfyingly chewy texture that pairs beautifully with a light, savoury broth. We topped our noodles with crispy tempura, spring onions, and a soft-boiled egg for extra richness.

A maximum of 8 diners stand perched over a counter top and we wouldn’t want it any other way. If you’re chasing a local culinary experience that hits all the right notes before the city wakes, this is it. We can’t wait to go back!

Tucked away in Tokyo’s buzzing neighborhood of Shibuya, Hikiniku to Come has become a cult favourite for good reason. This minimalist eatery specializes in one thing and does it exceptionally well: perfectly grilled wagyu hamburger patties, made fresh to order and seared on a charcoal grill right in front of you.

Each patty (you get 3!) is served with fluffy rice, a perfectly cooked egg, and a side of yuzu kosho for a citrusy kick. Every bite melts in your mouth, delivering a rich, umami-packed flavour that’s utterly unforgettable. If you’re a meat lover, this is a meal you won’t want to miss.

If you’re looking to experience something truly unique in Tokyo, teamLab Borderless delivers a one-of-a-kind blend of art and technology that’s unlike anything else in the world. This immersive digital art museum in Odaiba is a constantly shifting dreamscape — no maps, no fixed route — where every step unveils a new visual wonder. Vibrant lights, interactive installations, and soundscapes blend seamlessly as you walk through flowing waterfalls, glowing meadows, and floating lantern rooms.

The exhibits move around you (and sometimes because of you), creating a deeply personal journey through light and imagination. It’s not just a museum — it’s an experience that redefines how we engage with art. Don’t miss the tea house, where you can temporarily rest from exploring but can’t escape the visuals, as your tea cup undergoes an immersive experience of its own. We spent a few hours wandering around the different exhibits and got lost in imagination.

Tucked away in the atmospheric alleys of Dotonbori, Hanamaruken Hozenji serves what might be the most unforgettable bowl of ramen in Osaka. Their signature Pork Rib Ramen is pure indulgence — a slow-braised, fall-off-the-bone pork rib rests atop rich, savoury broth and perfectly ramen noodles.

The meat is tender enough to eat with chopsticks, melting into each bite with deep umami flavour. Balanced with green onions and a subtle garlic kick, it’s hearty without being heavy. Pair it with some gyoza and a pint of beer, and you’ve got the perfect meal. The best part, they’re open 24 hours so you can fit this in as your third dinner!

Tucked away in the heart of Kyoto’s historic Gion district, Gion Kanaya offers an elevated take on a beloved Japanese classic — eel noodles. This refined eatery pairs delicate, hand-pulled soba with perfectly grilled unagi (eel), lacquered in a rich, smoky tare glaze that melts with each bite.

The setting is elegant yet understated, with warm wood interiors and a quiet intimacy that mirrors the harmony of its dishes. This was such a rich and elegant dish that it satisfied our unagi craving for the rest of our trip.

Tucked away in the heart of Shinjuku, Piss Alley (Omoide Yokocho) offers one of Tokyo’s most atmospheric dining experiences — and yakitori is the star of the show. As dusk settles, smoke and the scent of sizzling skewers fill the narrow, lantern-lit alleyways, where tiny izakayas and grill stands bustle with locals and visitors alike.

At these intimate counters, you’ll enjoy perfectly charred chicken, pork, and seasonal vegetables, paired with ice-cold beer or a glass of sake. It’s casual, loud, and full of character — an unmissable dive into Tokyo’s old-school food culture.

Dotonbori is the beating heart of Osaka’s street food scene, and no culinary stroll here is complete without trying two local icons: takoyaki and melon pan. The piping-hot takoyaki, crispy on the outside, gooey inside, and filled with tender octopus, are made fresh right before your eyes at countless stalls lining the neon-lit canal.

Follow it up with a sweet contrast: melon pan, a warm, fluffy bun with a crackly sugar crust, served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence. Look out for long lines at Takoyaki Juhachiban and Melon Bread and you’re onto a winner.

Matcha lovers, rejoice — Japan serves up green tea magic in every possible form. From creamy melt-in-your-mouth matcha tiramisu in Kyoto to decadent matcha parfaits in Uji, each bite delivers a delicate blend of bitterness and sweetness. Cafés across the country craft velvety matcha lattes with a deep, earthy aroma, and matcha shops have lines queueing up for matcha tea before stores open. Be warned, get in quick or stocks will run out!

Our favourites were:

• Maccha House (many branches)
• Suzukien Asakusa matcha gelato
• Naramuka Tokichi (many branches)

Japan offers an incredible blend of ancient traditions and modern excitement, making it a destination that truly captivates every traveller. From wandering through serene gardens and exploring ancient temples to savouring world-class cuisine and relaxing in soothing onsens, there’s something unforgettable at every turn. Whether you’re exploring bustling cities like Tokyo and Osaka, immersing yourself in cultural gems like Kyoto and Nara, or enjoying peaceful escapes in Hakone and Uji, Japan promises a journey full of discovery and wonder. Use these top experiences as your guide to create a rich, inspiring itinerary—and get ready to fall in love with everything this incredible country has to offer!