Things To Do In Japan

Sumo wrestling in Tokyo

Steeped in ancient traditions, sumo wrestling is much more than a sport. As interesting as the duels are, the practices and rituals followed before and during the event are equally fascinating.

The Ryogoku neighbourhood in Tokyo is at the centre of it all, with tournaments in January, May and September.

Mount Fuji

An iconic symbol of the country, Mount Fuji is a sight for sore eyes. Trekking to its summit is one of the popular things to do in Japan. Climbing the mountain is typically a two-day affair with an overnight stay at a mountain hut en route.

Four trails lead to the summit, with the Yoshida Trail the most popular. If you don’t want to trek, there’s no reason you cannot appreciate this wonderful mountain from afar: from the shores of one of the Fuji Five Lakes; by taking the Mount Fuji Panoramic Ropeway from Lake Kawaguchiko to Mt. Tenjo; or while cruising on Lake Ashi in Hakone.

Cherry blossom season

Come spring, the Japanese celebrate the arrival of sakura, the pink cherry blossoms. Families and friends picnic under cherry blossom trees to revel in their beauty during this blossoming, which lasts for one week between March and May.

In some places, the party continues well into the night, with the trees lit up and casting a beautiful glow. It is one of the most memorable things to do in Japan. Each year there are special events and festivals organised around the blossoming sakura.

Osaka food tour

Many consider Osaka the country’s food capital and one of the best places for culinary explorations. The city is known for its incredible variety of street food, the most popular being the takoyaki, a fried dough ball stuffed with octopus, and kushikatsu, hearty, deep-fried bites or veg, meat or fish.

At the “haute” end, definitely plan on sampling a traditional nine-course kaiseki meal, in which ritual and presentation are as important as flavour and taste.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Thirty minutes from central Kyoto, Arashiyama is famous for its shrines, temples, and Togetsu-Kyo Bridge.

While all these attractions are beautiful in their own right, the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove provides an unmatched experience of peace and tranquillity. Walking through this grove, surrounded by tall bamboo that let in very little light, is truly magical. 

Hiroshima

Hiroshima has emerged from its tragic past and become a symbol of peace and hope.

Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the Atomic Bomb Museum for a poignant reminder of the wanton destruction the world’s first atomic bomb caused during World War II.  

Onsens (natural hot springs)

Imbibe the healing properties of Japan’s onsens as you soak in a (public or private) steaming tub.

There are onsens throughout the country, though experiencing one in a ryokan (traditional inn) is one of the best things to do in Japan.

High-tech Japan

Japan’s tourist circuit is steeped in traditions and nature, but the country has a reputation for being technologically advanced and future savvy. You’ll see part of this culture in everyday life when you travel on a bullet train or use a high-tech toilet or vending machine.

For a deeper look at this world, visit Science City, the Tsukuba Space Center, or Miraikan National Science Museum and get a meal at restaurants or cafés where robots serve you.

Harajuku

If you are travelling with a tough-to-please tween or teen, go to Harajuku, the centre of teenage fashion and cosplay.

Stroll down the shopping haven of Takeshita Street, dine at one of Omotesando’s chic cafés and restaurants, and indulge the child in you at Kiddy Land.