non tourist things to do japan

18 Non-touristy Things To Do In Japan

If you’re looking for non-touristy things to do in Japan, we’ve made a list of fun yet unusual things to do in Japan. Check it out!

Japan is a country that never fails to surprise and captivate visitors with its rich traditions, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities. 

While popular attractions like Tokyo’s Shibuya Crossing and Kyoto’s Kinkaku-ji Temple are undeniably magnificent, there is a wealth of lesser-known treasures waiting to be explored. 

In this article, we invite you to delve into the depths of Japan’s hidden gems, unveiling extraordinary and non-touristy experiences that will leave you with lasting memories.

Non-touristy Things To Do In Japan

Discover samurai history in aizu-wakamatsu.

Located in Fukushima Prefecture, Aizu-Wakamatsu offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the captivating world of samurai culture and history. 

Explore the Tsuruga Castle, a magnificent structure perched atop a hill, and venture into the Aizu Bukeyashiki samurai residences. 

Visit the Sazaedo Pagoda, renowned for its intricate wooden architecture, and pay your respects at the gravesite of the Byakkotai, a group of young samurai who tragically took their own lives. 

Aizu-Wakamatsu allows you to step back in time and discover the resilience and honor of Japan’s samurai heritage.

Wander Through the Enchanting Sagano Bamboo Forest

Escape the crowds and find tranquility in the mesmerizing Sagano Bamboo Forest, located in the outskirts of Kyoto. 

As you enter the forest, you’ll be enveloped by towering bamboo stalks that sway gently with the breeze, creating a surreal atmosphere. Take a leisurely stroll along the winding paths, allowing the serene ambiance to wash over you. 

For an even more enchanting experience, visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the light filters through the bamboo, casting ethereal shadows.

• Related: Cool Things To Do In Japan

Immerse Yourself in Traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony in Kanazawa

While Kyoto is renowned for its tea ceremonies, Kanazawa offers a more intimate and authentic experience.

Visit one of the city’s traditional tea houses, where you can participate in a tea ceremony conducted by a knowledgeable tea master. 

Learn about the art of preparing matcha tea, savor the delicate flavors, and gain insight into the customs and rituals associated with this revered Japanese tradition. The tranquil setting and attention to detail will transport you to a world of elegance and serenity.

• Related: Fascinating Things To Do In Japan In Winter

Traverse the Mystical Moss Gardens of Saiho-ji Temple

Escape the bustling crowds and embark on a journey of tranquility in the moss-covered gardens of Saiho-ji Temple, also known as Kokedera, in Kyoto. 

Accessible by reservation only, this UNESCO World Heritage site invites you to explore a garden unlike any other. Walk along the moss-covered paths, surrounded by shades of vibrant green, and listen to the gentle sound of trickling water from the stone basins. 

The ambiance is meditative, and the sight of the meticulously maintained moss creates a sense of serenity and harmony with nature.

Unearth Ancient History in Hiraizumi

Located in Iwate Prefecture, Hiraizumi is a UNESCO World Heritage site that remains off the beaten path for many travelers. 

Discover the remnants of the once-thriving Fujiwara clan’s capital, with its elegant gardens, temples, and historical sites. 

Visit the magnificent Chuson-ji Temple, renowned for its golden hall and Buddhist treasures, and explore the serene Motsu-ji Temple, with its tranquil Pure Land Garden. 

Hiraizumi offers a glimpse into Japan’s rich history, with a peaceful atmosphere that evokes a sense of reverence and contemplation.

• Related: Fun Things To Do In Japan In Summer

Soak in the Serenity of Yakushima Island

Escape to the unspoiled beauty of Yakushima Island, located off the southern coast of Kyushu. This lush island is home to ancient cedar forests, some of which are over 1,000 years old. 

Embark on a hiking adventure through the mystical moss-covered trails of Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine or venture to Jomon Sugi, a 7,200-year-old cedar tree considered a natural treasure.

As you explore the island’s rugged coastline and crystal-clear waters, you’ll encounter breathtaking vistas and a sense of serenity that can only be found in nature’s embrace.

Wander the Streets of Kanazawa’s Higashi Chaya District

Step into the nostalgic world of geishas and traditional teahouses as you explore the Higashi Chaya District in Kanazawa. 

Unlike the more famous Gion district in Kyoto, this area remains relatively undiscovered by tourists. Take a leisurely stroll along the charming cobblestone streets lined with beautifully preserved wooden machiya houses. 

Peek into the teahouses, some of which are open to the public, and experience the refined atmosphere of a geisha performance or enjoy a cup of matcha tea. This hidden gem offers a glimpse into Japan’s geisha culture and a chance to immerse yourself in a bygone era.

Marvel at the Dynamic Sand Dunes of Tottori

Venture to the Tottori Sand Dunes, a natural wonder that resembles a desert landscape in the midst of Japan. 

These expansive dunes stretch along the coast of the Sea of Japan and offer a unique and unexpected sight. Take off your shoes and feel the fine sand beneath your toes as you explore this ever-changing terrain. 

Try your hand at sandboarding or simply relish the opportunity to witness the stunning contrast between the golden dunes and the turquoise sea. As you stand atop a dune, gazing into the vastness, you’ll feel a sense of adventure and awe.

• Related: Fun Things To Do In Japan In May

Discover the Art Island of Naoshima

Escape to the idyllic Naoshima Island, a haven for contemporary art enthusiasts. Located in the Seto Inland Sea, this small island is home to numerous art installations, museums, and architectural marvels. 

Visit the Chichu Art Museum, designed by renowned architect Tadao Ando, which seamlessly integrates with the natural surroundings and houses masterpieces by artists such as Claude Monet and James Turrell. 

Explore the Benesse House Museum and the Art House Project, where contemporary art installations are cleverly incorporated into traditional houses. Naoshima offers a tranquil and immersive artistic experience away from the tourist crowds.

Trek through the Magome and Tsumago Historic Trail

Embark on a journey along the historic trail that connects the post towns of Magome and Tsumago in the Kiso Valley. This scenic trail was once part of the Nakasendo, an ancient highway that linked Kyoto and Edo (present-day Tokyo).

As you walk along the well-preserved cobblestone path, surrounded by lush forests and traditional wooden houses, you’ll feel transported back in time. 

Take in the breathtaking mountain views, visit small shrines and teahouses, and savor the peaceful atmosphere. The Magome and Tsumago Historic Trail offers a glimpse into Japan’s rich history and allows you to experience the beauty of rural landscapes.

Explore the World of Ninja in Iga-Ueno

Unveil the secrets of the legendary ninja warriors in the town of Iga-Ueno, located in Mie Prefecture. 

Visit the Iga-ryu Ninja Museum, where you can learn about the history and skills of these mysterious warriors. Watch exciting demonstrations of ninja techniques and explore the hidden passageways and trapdoors of the museum’s replica ninja house. 

Delve into the world of espionage, disguises, and martial arts as you unravel the enigma surrounding the ninja tradition.

Explore the Hidden Canals of Yanagawa

Nestled in Fukuoka Prefecture, the picturesque town of Yanagawa offers a serene escape from the bustling cities. Hop on a traditional donkobune boat and navigate the tranquil canals that crisscross the town. 

Admire the idyllic scenery as you pass under charming stone bridges and past traditional houses adorned with beautiful gardens. A boatman will guide you through the canals, sharing stories of the town’s history and legends. 

Take a moment to savor a traditional Japanese lunch on board, featuring local specialties like unagi (grilled eel) and freshwater fish.

Discover the Ancient Art of Fish Printing in Mie

In the coastal town of Toba in Mie Prefecture, immerse yourself in the traditional art of Gyotaku, or fish printing. 

Visit a local workshop or art studio where you can learn this unique technique firsthand. Under the guidance of an experienced artist, select a fish, coat it with ink, and press it onto washi paper, creating a detailed print that captures the intricacies of the creature. 

This ancient art form originated as a way for fishermen to record their catches, and today it offers a hands-on and culturally immersive experience.

• Related: Interesting Things To Do in Japan In Autumn

Find Tranquility in Rurikoin Temple’s Autumn Splendor

Escape the crowds of Kyoto’s popular temples and seek out the hidden gem of Rurikoin Temple. Located on the outskirts of the city, this temple is particularly enchanting during the autumn season. 

As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by a breathtaking sight—a sea of vibrant red and orange maple leaves that blanket the temple grounds. 

Take your time to wander through the meticulously maintained gardens, admiring the vivid foliage reflected in tranquil ponds. The atmosphere is one of serenity and contemplation, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the changing seasons.

Experience Traditional Ainu Culture in Hokkaido

In the northernmost region of Japan, Hokkaido, immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the indigenous Ainu people.

Visit the Ainu Village in Shiraoi, where you can learn about their traditional way of life, beliefs, and arts. Participate in workshops where you can try your hand at Ainu crafts such as carving traditional wooden sculptures or weaving intricate patterns. 

Engage with Ainu elders who share their stories and wisdom, giving you a glimpse into a culture that predates modern Japan.

Unwind in the Serene Onsen Town of Kinosaki

Escape the tourist crowds of larger onsen towns and discover the tranquil beauty of Kinosaki Onsen in Hyogo Prefecture.

This picturesque town is known for its seven public bathhouses, each with its unique design and healing waters. 

Take a leisurely stroll along the willow-lined streets dressed in a yukata (cotton robe) and traditional wooden geta sandals, hopping from one bathhouse to another.

As you soak in the therapeutic hot springs, let your worries melt away, and embrace the peaceful ambiance of this hidden onsen gem.

• Related: Diverse Things to Do in Japan in June

Trek the Remote Oirase Gorge in Aomori

For nature enthusiasts seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures, the Oirase Gorge in Aomori Prefecture offers a breathtaking escape. Embark on a scenic trek along the crystal-clear Oirase River, flanked by lush forests and cascading waterfalls. 

The trail winds its way through moss-covered rocks, wooden footbridges, and serene ponds, offering an immersive experience in the heart of nature. Listen to the soothing sound of rushing water and breathe in the fresh forest air as you discover the tranquil beauty of this hidden gem.

Japan’s hidden treasures are a testament to the country’s rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and off-the-beaten-path experiences. 

From immersing yourself in the geisha culture of Kanazawa to marveling at the dynamic sand dunes of Tottori, and exploring the art-filled island of Naoshima, these non-touristy activities offer unique and unforgettable encounters. 

Embark on a journey of discovery, and let Japan’s hidden gems leave an indelible mark on your travel experiences. 

Whether you find yourself wandering the streets of Kanazawa’s Higashi Chaya District, basking in the serenity of Yakushima Island’s ancient forests, or trekking the historic trail between Magome and Tsumago, each adventure will provide a deeper understanding of Japan’s diverse cultural tapestry.

In Japan, the true essence of exploration lies in seeking out these lesser-known destinations and experiences. 

By venturing beyond the well-trodden tourist path, you’ll have the opportunity to engage with local communities, immerse yourself in the country’s rich history, and embrace the beauty of its natural landscapes.

So, pack your curiosity and adventurous spirit as you embark on a journey to uncover Japan’s hidden treasures. Discover the stories etched within the walls of samurai residences in Aizu-Wakamatsu, find tranquility amidst the towering bamboo of Sagano’s forest, and sip tea in the intimate teahouses of Kanazawa.

 Marvel at the mystical moss gardens of Saiho-ji Temple and lose yourself in the ancient wonders of Hiraizumi’s UNESCO World Heritage sites.

For those seeking unique experiences, venture to the Tottori Sand Dunes and feel the thrill of a desert-like landscape, or explore the contemporary art installations on Naoshima Island. 

Traverse the historic trails and imagine the footsteps of travelers from centuries past, or immerse yourself in the secretive world of the ninja in Iga-Ueno.

These hidden gems showcase the rich tapestry of Japan’s cultural heritage, its breathtaking natural wonders, and the creativity that thrives within its borders. 

By embracing these off-the-beaten-path adventures, you’ll discover the true spirit of Japan—a country that continually surprises, captivates, and invites you to delve deeper into its hidden treasures.

So, set forth on a journey of discovery, where the ordinary transforms into the extraordinary, and the non-touristy becomes an opportunity for authentic connection and unparalleled exploration. Japan’s hidden gems await your arrival, ready to share their secrets and create memories that will last a lifetime.

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Boutique Japan

Japan’s Best Off-The-Beaten-Path Places

If you’re the type of traveler who seeks out unique, non-touristy places, this short list of our favorite off-the-beaten-path Japan destinations is for you.

Most people who visit Japan focus on more well-known places, like Tokyo and Kyoto — and with good reason. You’ll find the modern and ancient capitals in our sample trips , along with other renowned destinations, because they’re truly worthwhile.

But to complement your travels to what might be considered “essential” destinations, it’s also worth getting off the beaten track to spend time in areas of Japan that fewer travelers visit.

It’s also a good way to minimize exposure to crowds. Particularly during peak seasons , it’s normal for iconic places to attract lots of visitors. Yet even at popular times of year, you can almost feel like you have the beauty of Japan to yourself by venturing to more remote parts of the country.

So to help you plan the most unique trip possible, we’re pleased to present a selection of the best off-the-beaten-path places in Japan. (If you’re looking for even more inspiration, see our comprehensive guide to Japan’s best destinations ).

Originally written in 2014, this post was updated and republished on August 28, 2020.

Notes About Travel in Rural Japan

Traveling through the Japanese countryside is ultimately easier than many travelers imagine. Here are a few key things you should know, which are generally applicable to the destinations featured below (and rural Japan on the whole).

• Expect to stay in ryokans (Japanese-style inns) at least some of the time. Even in less-visited regions most cities have hotels, but in very remote areas there may only be Japanese-style options.
• Trains in Japan are wonderful and the country has a comprehensive rail network, but in off-the-beaten-track areas it’s often easiest to explore by car (some travelers enjoy driving, while others prefer to have a private driver).
• It’s safe to say you’re likely to encounter fewer English speakers in more rural parts of Japan. Read more on what you should know about the Japanese language .

Without further ado, we present our favorite off-the-beaten-path areas of Japan (not listed in order of preference – we love them all!):

Located in the southwest of Japan, Kyushu is a perennial favorite among Japanese people and Japan enthusiasts for its food, natural scenery, and onsen (hot springs). It’s also the birthplace of shochu , Japan’s most popular distilled liquor.

For most visitors, the gateway to Kyushu is the city of Fukuoka. From Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, it’s a straight shot by shinkansen (bullet train) to Hakata Station.

For some travelers, the easy domestic flight to Fukuoka Airport may make the most sense – and Fukuoka Airport also serves many international flights from throughout Asia.

Below are some of our favorite places and experiences in Kyushu.

Highlights of Kyushu, Japan

• Kyushu’s largest city, Fukuoka , is perhaps Japan’s most “livable” large city, with friendly people, pleasant weather, a dynamic arts scene, and amazing cuisine. The food in Fukuoka (also known as Hakata) is a major draw for culinary travelers: the city is known for its yatai street stalls, tonkotsu ramen, and much more.
• Beppu is Kyushu’s most famous onsen destination, but for a less “gaudy” experience try the more laid-back town of Yufuin , or the hot springs village of Kurokawa Onsen .
• The city of Nagasaki is worth visiting for its history (both during the Edo Period, and WWII), its charm, and its eclectic cuisine.
• For travelers interested in traditional and modern craft, Saga Prefecture is a must, with highlights including Arita , Imari , and Karatsu .
• Mount Aso is one of Japan’s most impressive volcanoes, and don’t miss the chance to enjoy a picturesque boat ride through the majestic Takachiho Gorge .
• The best place to experience Kyushu’s natural wonders is on the remote island of Yakushima , a few hours’ ferry ride (or short flight) from Kagoshima , Kyushu’s southernmost city. Yakushima is a dream for nature lovers, with ancient forests, hikes to waterfalls, and more.

Located in northern Japan (just south of Hokkaido), the Tohoku region is by far one of our favorite of Japan’s lesser-visited areas. Thanks to its relatively out-of-the-way location, most travelers end up missing it. This is unfortunate for them, but good news for you if you’re looking for an authentic off-the-beaten-track experience.

Tohoku is a large region including various distinct prefectures (Akita, Aomori, Fukushima, Iwate, Miyagi, and Yamagata), and there is no single “best” way to explore it all.

A common route for people visiting Tohoku is to travel from Tokyo to the city of Sendai by shinkansen , and from here continue to explore the region by train and/or car (if you skipped ahead, see above for Notes About Travel in Rural Japan ).

Below are some of our favorite places and experiences in Tohoku.

Highlights of Tohoku, Japan

• Tohoku’s largest city, Sendai , is a convenient gateway to many of the region’s rural highlights, and is worth a stop in its own right – especially if you love Japanese food . Sendai has a vibrant culinary and nightlife scene, with great izakayas and local sake .
• Long famed in Japan as one of the country’s most scenic destinations, Matsushima Bay is a lovely place to hike or just enjoy the views. The nearby port town of Shiogama is an excellent place to enjoy fresh sushi.
• Like Kyushu, the Tohoku region has too many wonderful onsen to name. Visit the quintessential hot springs town of Ginzan Onsen (said to have inspired Ghibli ), or venture to the remote Nyuto Onsen for an unforgettable rustic onsen experience.
• The Sanriku Coast is remarkable not only for its scenery and traditional towns, but also for its resilience following the tragic tsunami of 2011.
• For history lovers, the cities of Kakunodate (most famous for its samurai district) and Hirosaki (most famous for its castle) are highly worth visiting.
• One of Japan’s most spiritual areas, Dewa Sanzan (the Three Mountains of Dewa) is a traditional pilgrimage destination, with beautiful scenery, historic shrines, and great hiking options. (While not in Tohoku, read about Mount Koya , another spiritual destination in Japan.)
• The entire Hachimantai region is a nature-lover’s dream, with Lake Tazawa (Tazawako), mountain hikes galore, and a wealth of natural hot springs (including Nyuto Onsen mentioned above).

Tohoku is too large and its regions too varied to succinctly summarize, but hopefully this piques your interest in this often overlooked part of Japan.

Even among this collection of Japan’s hidden gems, Shikoku stands out for its beauty and remote feel. If you’re looking for an isolated yet stunning slice of the Japanese countryside, Shikoku is a fantastic destination to consider.

Why visit Shikoku? Beautiful nature, peaceful villages, art islands, wonderful local food (including Japan’s best udon), hot springs, and a rich traditional culture including matsuri such as the lively Awa Odori.

Most travelers enter Shikoku via the cities of Takamatsu or Tokushima, and the ideal entry point will depend on your first destination.

It is possible to explore some of Shikoku by rail, but — echoing the Notes above — a rental car or private driver is likely your best option, as transport links within the island are relatively limited. (If your main destination is the art island of Naoshima, a car is not as essential.)

Below are some of our favorite places and experiences in Shikoku.

Highlights of Shikoku, Japan

• Actually just off the coast of Shikoku, Japan’s famous “art island” of Naoshima is a major draw for travelers interested in art and architecture (see our introduction to Naoshima ). A short ferry trip away is the lesser-visited island of Teshima , home to the awe-inspiring Teshima Art Museum .
• Perhaps Shikoku’s most important gateway, the city of Takamatsu is worth exploring. You could spend hours at Ritsurin Koen, a spacious and elegant garden, and make sure to sample the local udon at one of the city’s many specialty shops.
• Kotohira is a small, charming town featuring the island’s best-known shrine, Konpira-san (also known as Kotohira-gu), as well as a magnificent old kabuki theater, Kanamaru-za.
• The lively city of Matsuyama is full of history and flavor, and home to one of Japan’s oldest hot springs destinations, Dogo Onsen , along with the original preserved Matsuyama Castle (Matsuyama-jo).
• To get away from it all, venture to the Iya Valley deep in Shikoku’s hard-to-reach interior, where you’ll find striking landscapes, delightful old-fashioned accommodations, hiking and rafting, as well as hot springs and waterfalls.
• The Shikoku Pilgrimage (Shikoku Henro ) is one of Japan’s most important pilgrimages (another, though not on Shikoku, is the Kumano Kodo ), and includes 88 Buddhist temples located throughout the island. Most visitors choose to pay a visit to a small selection of the temples.
• Located just east of Teshima (see above), the island of Shodoshima is known for its traditional soy sauce production as well as its Mediterranean climate and bountiful olive groves.
• The charming town of Uchiko is an attractive detour for travelers who enjoy picturesque old streets and little old-fashioned shops.
• The laid-back city of Kochi , on Shikoku’s southern coast, feels about as far from the mainland as possible. Like Matsuyama (mentioned above), the city boasts an original castle, along with temples, famed local cuisine, and beaches nearby.

4. Hokkaido

Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, is no “secret,” and in fact is quite well-known especially thanks to its incredible skiing and snowboarding. But beyond its famous winter highlights most travelers don’t realize how much Hokkaido has to offer — and what an appealing summer destination it is.

When most of Japan is dealing with the intense heat and humidity of summer, Hokkaido is irresistibly pleasant, making it an ideal time to explore the island. It also has a beautiful if brief autumn before the long, snow-filled winter begins.

Unlike most of Japan, Hokkaido is renowned for its wide-open spaces, and it’s a great destination for travelers interested in the outdoors, adventure sports, and wildlife.

Perhaps even more importantly — at least for many of our travelers — Hokkaido is an extraordinary culinary destination, worth visiting for its seafood (and some of Japan’s best sushi and sashimi), produce, dairy (including outrageously good cheese), and even bread and pastries (the island is home to some amazing bakeries).

For most travelers, the easiest way to get to Hokkaido is by domestic flight. There are plenty of daily flights from throughout Japan to the Sapporo area’s New Chitose Airport (which also serves a number of international destinations).

Another option for travelers with a bit more time is the Hokkaido Shinkansen. You can get from Tokyo to the southern Hokkaido city of Hakodate in just a few hours.

(In line with the Notes above, once in Hokkaido a car may be your best bet for exploring the island, depending on your itinerary.)

Below are some of our favorite places and experiences in Hokkaido.

Highlights of Hokkaido, Japan

• If you’re visiting for the nature, you may be tempted to skip Sapporo , the island’s largest city. But if you’re here for the food, you’ll want to spend some time eating your way around this lively city. Along with its cuisine, Sapporo also has a smattering of interesting art and architecture, and in winter plays host to the famous Snow Festival (Yuki Matsuri).
• Home to what some skiers and snowboarders believe to be the world’s best powder, Niseko is Japan’s most famous ski resort (and also home to a dynamic culinary scene). Among too many to list, other winter resorts in Hokkaido include Rusutsu , Furano , Kiroro , Tomamu , and Asahikawa .
• Noboribetsu Onsen is one of the best places to enjoy an exquisite ryokan stay, with beautiful natural surroundings and splendid meals featuring local and seasonal ingredients.
• The UNESCO World Heritage Shiretoko National Park stands out even on this list as one of Japan’s most remote areas, home to some of the country’s most pristine wilderness and wonderful wildlife viewing opportunities.
• Biratori is a small town rich in indigenous Ainu culture and home to the Biratori Nibutani Ainu Culture Museum.
• If you take the shinkansen from Tokyo, you’ll end up in Hakodate , renowned for its seafood and morning market, and its small historical districts.
• Along with skiing in winter, Furano is a popular destination for its lavender fields in summer, and the idyllic Biei nearby is also home to vibrant flower fields.
• Another top winter destination, Asahikawa , is also one of Hokkaido’s best hiking areas in summer, with easy access to the impressive Daisetsuzan National Park .
• Yoichi , where you’ll find the Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery, is an important destination for whisky lovers. On the way or as a detour, the port town of Otaru has a small historical district (and excellent seafood).
• On Hokkaido’s eastern coast, Abashiri is home to the Museum of Northern Peoples, and the Moyoro Shell Mound Museum.
• Wildlife enthusiasts also flock to Kushiro Shitsugen National Park for a chance to witness endangered Japanese cranes.
• Last but certainly not least, Hokkaido is home to a wealth of pristine lakes, from Shiretoko (mentioned above) to Lake Akan , Lake Toya , Lake Kussharo , Lake Shikotsu , Lake Onuma , and Lake Mashu .

Most people have heard of Okinawa (like Hokkaido, its existence is no secret), but few travelers realize just how beautiful it is. Because of this, we consider Okinawa to be one of Japan’s most underrated destinations.

Imagine a more laid-back, subtropical version of Japan, and you can begin to picture what makes Okinawa so appealing. With lovely beaches and jungles, the scenery is spectacular; you’ll find world-class scuba diving and marine life; and the weather is fantastic year-round (though note that it does get cool at times of year).

Okinawa’s islands are full of picture-perfect beaches, but we typically recommend Okinawa most for travelers who are interested in a combination of stunning landscapes, activity, and local culture. The rich and fascinating Ryukyu culture lives on in many aspects of life throughout the islands, including in Okinawa’s food , lively music, and distinctive architecture.

One reason many travelers skip Okinawa is its distance from mainland Japan, though this shouldn’t stop you. There are convenient flights from major Japanese cities to Okinawa (there are also some international flights).

Most travelers fly into Naha Airport on Okinawa’s main island, or New Ishigaki Airport on the island of Ishigaki in Okinawa’s far-flung Yaeyama Islands. Flights to the larger Naha are more frequent, but you may want to skip Naha and the main island if you’re opting for an off-the-beaten-path adventure in the Yaeyama Islands.

Once in Okinawa, expect to travel by ferry for shorter island-hopping excursions, and inter-island flight for longer trips (for example, from Ishigaki to Naha).

Below are some of our favorite places and experiences in Okinawa.

Highlights of Okinawa, Japan

• We love Okinawa on the whole, but if you only visit one area consider the secluded paradise of the Yaeyama Islands , which are actually located closer to Taiwan than mainland Japan. The Yaeyama Islands include Ishigaki, Iriomote, and Taketomi (more on these below), as well as Yonaguni (particularly famous for its scuba diving), Kohama, and Hateruma.
• Begin your Yaeyama Islands adventure in the small city of Ishigaki . Some travelers choose to stay on Ishigaki and use it as a convenient base for island-hopping around the local islands. Ishigaki itself is famous for the scenic Kabira Bay, and is also full of places to enjoy Okinawan food and music (the sound of the sanshin is intoxicating). You can also hike, bike, snorkel, and dive.
• From Ishigaki, the nearest island is tiny Taketomi , which has pretty beaches, and a quaint and beautifully-preserved historical town center.
• Another wonderful island within easy reach of Ishigaki is the lush, jungly island of Iriomote , which offers great hiking, waterfalls, canoeing and kayaking, SUP, and more.
• Located between the Yaeyama Islands and Okinawa’s main island is Miyako Island (Miyako-jima), another off-the-beaten-path gem, known for its great beaches and marine activities.
• Okinawa (the main island, Okinawa Honto) is a major draw for tourists thanks to its convenience and plethora of resorts. While we still tend to recommend more out-of-the-way islands, it can be a good option for families. Its main city of Naha offers plenty to do, including the colorful Makishi Market and the unique Shuri Castle. Most of the resorts are further north, where the Churaumi Aquarium is also located.
• Near the main island you’ll also find the Kerama Islands National Park , with a quieter atmosphere and — you guessed it — great beaches!

Looking for more inspiration?

We hope our guide to Japan’s best off-the-beaten-path destinations helps you as you plan your Japan trip! For more inspiration, see our 25 Japan experiences to add to your bucket list .

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Japan off the beaten path: discover 6 unique non-touristy destinations

We all have heard of Tokyo, Kyoto or Osaka, but let's dive into a little rough but surely friendly off the beaten path destinations in Japan.

Tiffany Tiff Travels

Apr 01, 2023

Many people go to Japan to experience the famous sites, but this country also has some pretty interesting country life . The more known cities such as Tokyo, Hiroshima, Osaka and Kyoto all have plenty to offer, but if you are looking for a more laid back, off the beaten path and country experience, these big and restless cities may not be for you.

If you plan to visit Japan anytime soon and are planning to head to the Osaka Castle or experience the fast bullet trains, you should definitely consider these next lesser known but equally beautiful cities.

Japan off the beaten path: 6 lesser known yet beautiful destinations

Located in eastern Asia and a country that can reach extreme highs and lows in temperature, Japan is home to many and loved by millions as a go-to tourist destination.

Japan has advanced technology as well as fast developing cities but not many people are aware of Japan’s uncharted countryside .

In this article we’re going to discover lesser known but equally rewarding laid-back destinations as well as the most known and booming cities in Japan.

Japan off the beaten path: Motoyama

Located in the Shikoku District of Japan, this city is the perfect nature escape for backpackers who love to be surrounded by green.

Much of the attractions here are based in nature whether it may be a walk through the park or rummaging through rice fields .

Mount Shiraga: A hike to heaven’s door

Mount Shiraga is the perfect place for a relaxing hiking experience. It offers breathtaking views and is located in a forest, so this hike is not one where you would find many tourists, but it is extremely beautiful and worthy of the adventure backpacker.

Be sure to bring a camera, snacks, hiking poles, and a thick jacket as snow is common in this area.

Kizenzan Park: A break away from the city

I personally love a good park to unwind and destress from the loud noises and stressors of everyday city life.

Kizenzan is a park with glistening pink flowers and a beautiful small lake. This destination is a great place to head to when in Motoyama and you’re looking to read a good book or have a solo picnic.

Enjoy statues full of history and walking trails with greenery.

Motoyama Castle: 600 years into the past

This spot dates back to the Sengoku times that began all the way back in 1467 . If you’re a history buff and love to learn new things about the past, this is the spot for you.

Although named as if it is a fairy palace, the Motoyama Castle more resembles a hiking trail or forest.

Yoshinobu Rice Fields: Endless hills of lush green

It has always been a dream of mine to frolic in rice fields and see this plant in its most natural state.

If you are not familiar with rice fields (aka paddy fields), this is an ancient method used by Asian farmers and originated in China . Enjoy a view from every angle of the beautiful and seemingly endless hills.

If you’re looking for the most authentic, local, country experience possible in Japan, consider being part of a work-exchange . A work-exchange is when a person volunteers their time and skills at a hostel , farm , or NGO in exchange for accommodation.

Check out this farm in the beautiful and quiet Motoyama region for a completely immersed cultural experience. Strengthen your gardening and farming skills while enjoying complimentary traditional Japanese breakfast, lunch, and dinner. 

Discover more about volunteering around the world:  Traveling with Worldpackers: your top questions answered .

Japan off the beaten path: Komae

Komae is a city located only 23 minutes away from the bustling streets of Tokyo .

With a population severely lower than the capital of the country, Komae offers a more down to earth and slower paced society to experience Japan off the beaten path .

Japan is known for harsh winters but snowfall is usually rare for Komae, and it also gets quite warm in the summer-time.

Shrines of Komae: Pay respects at religious Japanese shrines

Komae has quite a few shrines and religious temples and serves as the perfect destination for those itching to know more about Japanese religion and culture.

The country has their own way of approaching shrines and other ancient sites so it is important to know which customs to reserve while visiting such a place.

Be sure to wash your hands & mouth , take off shoes before entering inside, and only take photography where it is permitted.

Izumi , Komaihie , Iwado Hachiman and  Senryuji Temple are just a few of the many shrines located in the city of Komae.

Parks of Komae: Bring the family (or just yourself)

If you’re like me, you enjoy heading to the park with a nice book or a picnic basket full of fruits to enjoy nature and a low cost/budget day trip .

When I visited San Francisco, California , most of my days were spent at their many free parks where I people watched, ate fruit, and enjoyed the sun .

Head to Maehara , Nishikawara , or Nagoya Ryokuchi Park for a completely free and relaxing day experience.

Experience relaxed local living with Japanese residents in Komae : Test out your skills and exchange 10 hours of cleaning per week for accommodation! On your off days, ride a bike around town and search for authentic Japanese street food. 

Japan off the beaten track: Yamanashi

Yamanashi is a prefecture or area of Japan located on the island of Honshu. It has many sites to see for the solo backpacker or the entire family.

With the capital city being Kofu, Yamanashi is a destination known for the famous Mount Fuji and instagram worthy pink cherry blossoms.

Mount Fuji: The go to Yamanashi hot-spot

Probably one of the most known destination spots in Japan is sightseeing Mount Fuji. Whether you’re an adventure junkie and desire to climb to the peak or more of a sit and watch person, seeing and exploring this mountain is for everyone.

Head to Lake Yamanaka or Motosu to capture a jaw dropping picture of the mountain with a beautiful body of water just in front.

Lake Kawaguchiko: Gateway to Mount Fuji

Offering stunnings views and freezing winters, Kawaguchi is another gateway to perfect views of Mount Fuji .

Head to the lake in peak summer time (June or July) to capture a picture of Mount Fuji lying abreast a bed of gorgeous lavender fields.

Have fun at Fuji Q Highland Amusement Park

If you want to take a small break from nature to experience a classic Japanese amusement park, Fuji Q is the place to go!

A day pass costs about 6300 yen or around USD 50, and allows you to experience as many rides (and screams) as you can get.

Opened in 1961, people have been enjoying fun on seven rollercoasters and you can too!

Chureito Pagoda: Picture perfect views

This next location is the perfect spot for social media influencers to head to and capture pictures and videos of a lifetime.

If you head to Chureito Pagoda in spring or April time, you can treat yourself to one of the best views of Mount Fuji, with cherry blossom trees in the forefront.

Want to have a daily view of the beautiful Mountain Fuji? Consider doing a work trade for this Guest house/hostel in Yamanashi ! All you have to do is volunteer 4 hours of your day dedicated to cleaning and maintaining upkeep of the given area. 

Keep reading:  First time working at a hostel? Here's what you need to know .

Japan off the beaten path: Nasu

Known for its many hot springs , Nasu is the perfect getaway that offers a break away from the fast paced society of Tokyo.

Sitting at a 2 hour drive away from Tokyo , this city is mostly known by Japanese locals but is truly a gem to tourists that make their way over here to experience Japan off the beaten path.

Strawberry Farm Picking: The best strawberries in the country

Also known as the Strawberry Kingdom, Nasu is known to have the best strawberries in all of Japan .

These strawberries have a sweet aroma and taste that will leave you craving more. There are many strawberry farms decorated all over the prefecture so don’t worry about not being able to find a spot to get picking.

Nasu Yuzen Shrine: Hot springs and foot baths

This is another beautiful Japanese shrine with hot springs and even a foot bath . Pay respects to the universe by following Japanese traditions when entering a shrine. This spot is open 24 hours, but you may not want to go here at 1 AM…

Shiobara Onsen Hot Springs

With a story that is older than 1200 years, head to these hotsprings if you want to relax and spend the day eating delicious Japanese food and sightseeing.

Travelers can kayak, explore Ryuka or Kaiko falls, or walk across the suspension bridge that withholds stunning views below.

Want to stay in Nasu long-term ? Volunteer for this rural Japanese farm and reap the benefits of growing your own food ! Enjoy two days off per week and free hiking tours in the nearby nature surrounding area. 

Looking for volunteering in a farm, check out  this 6 organic farm volunteer opportunities to apply for today .

Japan off the beaten path: Takaoka

Located in the Toyama Prefecture, Takaoka has a deep history with the production and trading of metal.

The city is on the Eastern Sea of the country and has a population of a little over 400,000 residents.

Takaoka is decorated with must-see nature sites and is home to the Daibutsu Buddha and famous for the cherry blossom season.

Amaharashi Coast: Beach with a mountain view

Although there are blue waters and sandy scapes, this beach is not necessarily one you would want to swim in.

The beach coastline is a spot to see for the ocean water and clear view of Mount Tsurugi . The site is free and open throughout all seasons of the year and offers beautiful snowy mountain top views during the winter time.

Daibutsu Buddha: Visit one of the biggest Buddhas in the area

Sitting at a whopping 13 meters tall , the Buddha weighs 65 tons or 143,000 pounds ! Construction of this great monument took about 30 years to complete and was burned down many times as it was originally created with wood.

Continue your day visiting the Takaoka Kojo Park

This park is not too far away from the Daibutsu Buddha making these two the perfect combination for a day trip .

There are remains of a mighty castle built all the way back in 1609 that is worth seeing if you visit Takaoka.

Every spring from the start of April, the park offers a celebration of the beautiful spring cherry blossoms. Spring time is the perfect season to visit this park and smell the delicacy of the flowers’ aroma caressing through the air.

Zuiryuji Temple: Historical architectural design 

A historical monument built in 1659, this temple is beautifully designed to be appreciated by the finest of architects or any tourist.

Admission is only 500 yen and the spot opens at 9 AM making this temple a great spot to learn more about Japanese culture and buddhism.

Enjoy  local Japanese culture at this rural lodging house. Experience living in an all wood cabin and eating traditional free breakfast, lunch, and dinner. In exchange for the once in a lifetime experience and accommodation, spend your time volunteering by helping out in the garden and housekeeping.

Japan off the Beaten path: Miyazaki

The prefecture of Miyazaki is the spot for nature lovers to enjoy the lush scenery as well as the different shrines and museums this area offers.

Lots of hills and other nature views to behold, a traveler will certainly need a camera when they visit Miyazaki.

Heiwadai-koen & Udo Shrine

Constructed in 1940 in honor of Emperor Jimmu, this mystical park is home to the Peace Tower (Heiwadainoto) monument that towers a height of 180 meters (591 feet).

Heiwadai is open 24/7 and has free entrance which is every budget traveler’s dream. The park is only a 15 minute walk away from Miyazaki Shrine which makes these two destinations the best pair for a budget day trip in Miyazaki.

View breathtaking drops of the nearby ocean when you finish your sightseeing at the shrine and enjoy the salty sea air.

Takachiho: Resting place of the Sun goddess

Takachiho is a Japanese town that has a deep culture of mythology and cultural gods/goddesses. Legend has it that the sun goddesses made her way into the cave in an attempt to find peace from her mischievous brother.

Visit this town to learn more about the cultural aspect in the Amano Shrine as well as the natural beauty of the nearby gorge .

Kirishima: Volcanic hotsprings 

Home to thousand year old shrines , volcanoes, hot springs, and museums, Kirishima is the definition of off the beaten path Japanese exploring.

Have you ever been to an outside museum? Head to the Kirishima open air museum to strengthen up on your Japanese history and sneak a peak of Kurino.

Head to Miyazaki to experience the best surfing in all of Japan ! With only 3 hours of work a day of cleaning, reception, and housekeeping work, trade in Miyazaki is sure to be an unforgettable ordeal.

Gap year in Japan: Backpacking and taking a break from school

Japan is such a great destination to take a break for a couple of months (or more) and enjoy a gap year !

A gap year is when a high school student passes their higher education in pursuit of travel and simply having the desire to explore more of the world than just a classroom.

Simply view one of the volunteer opportunities in Japan on the Worldpackers website and explore an array of destinations waiting for the next adventure traveler.  

For this adventure you will need a good international travel insurance, so get now a 10% discount on Pax Assistance by clicking here ! If you are a Worldpackers verified member with one of the Pack plans , we are giving a 20% discount on Pax! *Valid for all nationalities, except for United States and Canadian citizens. If you are a US or Canadian citizen, we recommend World Nomads .

Japan is a country on many travelers' bucket list but be sure to also view and experience the countryside of this lovely island!

If you would like to explore and volunteer in Asia , check out WorldPackers’ 883 volunteer opportunities in destinations such as: Nepal , South Korea , India , Vietnam , and of course Japan . 

Join the community!

Create a free Worldpackers account to discover volunteer experiences perfect for you and get access to exclusive travel discounts!

Tiff Travels

Hello beautiful people of the internet! My name is Tiffany and I've been traveling the world solo for the past 2 years (I'm currently 21) and been to 5 countries including Zanzibar. My first 2 experiences with worldpackers have been in Ocho Rios, Jamaica and San Francisco, California and I plan on continuing my travels with the company. Let's go explore the world together!

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• Things to Do
• Hidden Gems

10 Amazing Off-the-Beaten-Path Places in Japan

Best Hidden Gems in Japan

Looking for new travel destinations or non-touristy places in Japan?? If you are planning to visit Japan for the second time (or more), or wish to avoid tourist crowds while travelling, you should definitely check out my list of the best off-the-beaten-path places in Japan!

These places are not overly crowded nor very famous YET, but for sure they will soon become a THING! Some of places are situated in/near popular tourist destinations such as Tokyo and Kyoto, so if you are planning to visit these cities, consider visiting those hidden gems alongside 🙂

Add them on your bucket list for your next visit to Japan and let’s hit these places before anybody else!

1. Nyuto Onsen

Nothing fabulous but rustic and incredibly genuine. The true onsen experience can be found in the deep mountain of northern Japan. Nyuto Onsen (乳頭温泉) is the most famous “Hitou (秘湯/hidden onsen)” in Japan with a history of over 300 years. Enjoy milky hot spring water with authentic local dishes.

More info:  Nyuto Onsen: the Hidden Onsen Village in Northern Japan

2. Yanaka Ginza

Is there anywhere that we haven’t discovered in Tokyo? Yes, Yanaka Ginza (谷中銀座) is one of Tokyo’s last well kept secrets. The old-fashioned shopping arcade is lined with small stores where locals do shopping and hang out. Although it’s located in central Tokyo, true local atmosphere and the old downtown vibes remain strongly in this surrounding area.

More info:  Yanaka Ginza: Tokyo’s Best Old-Fashioned Shopping Street

3. Mt.Oyama

Want to keep active while travelling?? Hiking is one of most popular activities, and did you know some hiking spots can be easily access from Tokyo? Mt. Oyama (大山) is located in Isehara City, Kanagwa and can be reached from Tokyo within 90 mins. The mountain houses sacred shrines and offers great hiking trails with a view of Mt.Fuji.

More info:  Mt. Oyama: Hike on the Sacred Mountain in Kanagawa!

4. Fuji City Tea Plantations

I believe many tourists in Japan are in a quest for taking best photos of Mt. Fuji. There are several famous photo spots around the mountain, but don’t you wish to take one step ahead from other photographers?? Then I think this should be your next target. They are not easiest places to access but totally worth the effort.

More info:  Obuchi Sasaba and Imamiya: Best Green Tea Plantations in Shizuoka

5. Monet Pond

One of biggest internet sensation last year, the pond has no name (a.k.a. Monet Pond) went viral cos it’s simply too good to be true. The pond is not very easy to access as it’s located in deep mountain of Gifu prefecture, however it’s a great travel destination if you are an eager photographer.

More info:  The Mystery Pond In Japan Looks Like Monet’s Paintings

6. Shoujuin Temple

Another Instagram sensation of latest years. Shojuin Temple (正寿院) has caught every girls’ hearts by its heart-shaped window and coloufully painted ceiling, and soon became the most instagrammable temple in Kyoto.

More info:  Shoujuin Temple: Most Instagrammable Temple in Kyoto!

7. Adashino Nenbutsuji Temple and Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple

Tired of overly crowded shrines and temples in Kyoto?? There are many hidden spots in the city off the major touristic route just like these two temples. Adashino Nenbutsuji Temple (化野念仏寺) and Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple (愛宕念仏寺) are two most mysterious and unspoiled temples in Kyoto, Arashiyama area.

More info:  Adashino Nenbutsuji Temple and Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple: Two Most Curious Temples in Kyoto

8. Shodoshima

Seto Inland Sea is definitely one of the hottest regions in Japan, and popularity is increasing every year. One of most popular islands is Shodoshima (小豆島) a.k.a. Olive Island. The playful island offers numbers of tourists attractions including museums, delicious food and scenic views such as the Angel Road.

More info: Shodoshima: Guide to the Olive Island in Seto Inland Sea

9. Motonosumi Inari Shrine

Is Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto your thing? Is you are attracted by vermilion torii gates, this is definitely your next target. Motonosumi Inari Shrine (元乃隅稲成神社) is one of most scenic shrines in Japan with over 100 gates are lined at the cliff by the ocean. It’s located in Yamaguchi Prefecture, the tip of main island of Japan.

More info:  Motonosumi Inari Shrine: Japan’s Most Bizarre and Incredible Shrine!

10. Yanagawa

Yanagawa (柳川) is a small city in southern Fukuoka Prefecture, where historical atmosphere remains strongly, yet is not over crowded. The old castle town is often described as “the City of Water”, and the charming streetscape with willow trees and old buildings can be enjoyed by river cruising on traditional small boats called Donko.

More info:  Yanagawa: the City of Water in Fukuoka

Visiting Japan for the first time?? Then you may wanna check out the top must-visit tourist sites in Japan!

▶ 10 Best Japan Tourist Attractions

What did you think about my list of off the beaten path places to visit Japan? If you like exploring new spots in Japan, you may like these articles, too!

▽ Related Articles ▽

▼ Editor’s Picks ▼

"The world is my oyster" A globetrotter 🌎 and hammock lover 🌞 who loves taking adventures to fuel wanderlust. Born and raised in Japan, I have lived and explored countries around the world. As a resident of Japan and based on my travel experience, I'd love to share my knowledge and tips for travelling Japan with my readers. I hope my story will help you plan your trip and have a great time in Japan 🌈

Bucket List Seekers

Extraordinary Travel for Ordinary Couples

Japan , Travel Inspiration · March 2, 2022

Japan Hidden Gems: 30+ Best Places to get Off the Beaten Path in Japan

Are you looking to get off the beaten path in Japan? There are so many totally underrated Japan hidden gems to add to your itinerary. Read on to discover our top 30 underrated places in Japan!

It’s safe to say that we absolutely adore Japan. We fell in love with the country from the first moment we landed. From the fascinating culture to the delicious food, and the lovely Japanese people.

Japan is one of those countries we could totally go back to again and again. And it’s a really hot destination to visit in 2024 , largely due to their borders being closed for so long.

When most travellers  visit Japan for the first time , they usually plan either a 7-day or 14-day itinerary around Japan, visiting the typical tourist hotspots – a quick tour around Tokyo, followed by a  few days in Kyoto , then maybe spend a day in Osaka or Hiroshima to  tick off the bucket list .

This offers a pretty good taster for first-time travellers, but there is so much more to Japan than these well-known tourist hotspots!

While we totally recommend that first time visitors to Japan focus on these 5 destinations , if you want to discover some of Japan’s off-the-beaten-path hidden gems during your visit, then perhaps you could pick a few of these (mostly) undiscovered places to add to your itinerary!

Whether you’re planning a trip to  Japan in Autumn , Spring, Summer, or winter. There’s a hidden gem on this list for every season!

These stunning hidden gems will inspire you to get off the beaten path in Japan!

Related Japan articles you might enjoy:

• The Ultimate Guide to Planning a trip to Japan
• The Ultimate Japan Bucket List
• 5 Best Places to Visit in Japan for First Timers
• A Complete Guide to Visiting Hakone, Japan
• 20 Things You Should Know Before Visiting Japan for the First Time

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Did You Know?  We use ads to help pay the bills so we can continue to publish free travel advice. We also have affiliate partnerships, so when you click through and make a purchase or book your stay from one of our blog posts, we may receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you). Thank you for supporting Bucket List Seekers! Read our  Disclosure Policy  for more details.

In This Post:

Off the Beaten Path in Japan – At A Glance

• Kumano Kodo
• Izu Peninsula
• Naoshima Island

Top 15 Japan Off the Beaten Path Spots

#1 | Okinawa

The birthplace of karate is considered one of the most beautiful parts of Japan. But Okinawa is one of those hidden gems in Japan that won’t remain a secret for long. It’s quickly gaining a reputation amongst western tourists.

The tropical paradise is often called the “Hawaii of Japan”. With its incredible beaches and wild jungle, it is the perfect combination of untouched yet developed enough. 

Okinawa  would be the ideal destination for nature and water lovers who admire the natural beauty and laid-back island life. But beautiful surroundings are not the only thing the island is famed for. Expect to see the cherry blossoms (in spring, of course) and taste some divine cuisine. 

How to Get There:  A flight from Tokyo to Okinawa takes about 3 hours.

Where to Stay: Ishigaki Guesthouse HIVE (Budget) | ANA InterContinental Manza Beach Resort (Splurge)

Read More:   20 Things You Should Know Before Visiting Japan for the First Time

#2 | Kumano Kodo

If you are in search of one of Japan’s true hidden gems, look no more!  Kumano Kodo  – an ancient pilgrimage trail that heads in the mountains of Wakayama – is not commonly visited but should be on every  adventure traveller’s bucket list . 

Well-known amongst hiking addicts, there are several trails in the Kumano Kodo, some take days (or even weeks) to hike the entire length. Most parts are reachable by bus so you can start and end your hike wherever you like. 

To have the most authentic experience, remember to pack light and stay at the local guesthouses (Ryokans) along the way. 

Although it is possible to hike the Kumano Kodo year-round, be prepared that winter can bring some snow. 

During your journey, you will spot the Nachi Falls, which are registered as part of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sacred Sites. While you are there, stop by the Seiganto-Ji Temple to see its vermilion 3-story pagoda. 

How to Get There:  Catch the Kuroshio limited express from Osaka (Shin-Osaka Station) to Kii-Tanabe Station.

Where to Stay: Kosenkaku Yoshinoya (Ryokan)

Read More:   The Best Places to See Autumn Colours in Japan

#3 | Hakone

Although Hakone is located just a bit more than a 1-hour train ride away from the south of Tokyo, it is often overlooked by western tourists. That is a pity because the beautiful region has plenty to offer.

From quaint mountain towns to  traditional Ryokans with onsen , stunning mountain views, active volcanos, and beautiful lakes. It’s also one of the  best places to see autumn foliage  or cherry blossoms in spring.

While you are there, make sure to make a day trip to the  Hakone Air Museum , where you will find one of the most extensive Picasso exhibits in the world. 

Use our detailed  guide to Hakone  to help plan your trip!

How to Get There:  Catch the Odakyu Limited Express Romancecar from Shinjuku Station to Hakone-Yumoto Station. If you plan to use a Japan Rail Pass, you’ll need to depart from Tokyo Station or Shinagawa Station instead.

Where to Stay: Onsen Guest House Tsutaya (Budget) | Hakone Gora Byakudan (Splurge)

Read More:   A Complete Guide to Visiting Hakone, Japan

#4 | Lake Biwa

Lake Biwa  might be Japan’s largest freshwater lake, located in the Shiga Prefecture, but it’s also one of the most underrated places in Japan to visit! 

There are plenty of things to do around the lake. From island hopping by boat, swimming, windsurfing, exploring majestic castles, traditional villages, and discover the regions amazing cuisine (having some sweetfish and carp is a must!). The best part – the lake can be accessed in 10 minutes from  Kyoto . 

Don’t miss the Shirahige Shrine, with the “floating” torii gate in the water.

How to Get There:  Take a JR Tokaido train line from Kyoto Station to Otsu Station.

Where to Stay: Inase Otsu Machiya (Budget) | Lake Biwa Marriott Hotel (Splurge)

Read More:   The Perfect Kyoto 2 Day Itinerary

#5 | Takayama

Located in the mountainous Hida region of Gifu Prefecture,  Takayama  is one of the most unique places to visit in Japan, offering a more traditional experience than other parts of the country. 

Another great spot to  see autumn foliage  and cherry blossoms in spring, Takayama is known for its heritage-listed old township and superb local food – including ramen, sake, wasakana, and sansei. It’s the perfect Japan hidden gem for the curious gourmand!

How to Get There:  Take a train from Nagoya (about 4.5 hours), Toyana (5 hours) or Matsumoto.

Where to Stay: Miyamaso (Budget) | Takayama Ouan (Splurge)

#5 | Funaya

Are you a fan of Venice? Turns out – you can have a feel of Italy while being in Japan. In fact, “Funaya” translates into “the Boathouses of Ine” and is often called the “Venice of Japan”. 

Located in the northern part of  Kyoto  Prefecture, it is a truly fascinating destination and one of the most unique places to visit in Kyoto . A seaside village with wooden boathouses built right on the water. Due to its unique appearance, it’s a very popular spot for filming movies and TV shows. 

It’s possible to visit Funaya on a day trip from Kyoto city centre. Be sure to take a boat cruise to see the boathouses from the water or join a cycle tour to learn about the town’s history.

How to Get There:  Take the train from Kyoto (Amanohashidate Station on the Kyoto Tango Miyatoya Railway Line), then the Tankai Bus to Ine (1 hour).

Where to Stay: Hanayuzuki (Ryokan)

Read Next: Top 25 Things to do in Kyoto

#6 | Asahikawa

If you are not afraid of the snow, Asahikawa should be on your  travel bucket list  because it is one of the best secret places in Japan. 

Located on Japan’s Hokkaido Island and surrounded by the Taisetsuzan mountains, the area offers epic snow dumps in winter, so it is a much-loved destination for skiers and snowboarders. 

When exploring the city, visiting its famous zoo to see polar bears, penguins and orangutans is a must. The city is also known for its winter festival where you will see incredible ice sculptures. Don’t forget to try the famous Asahikawa Ramen while you’re there.

Keep in mind, though – Asahikawa is the coldest city in the country, so bring your jacket!

How to Get There:  Limited express trains connect Sapporo with Asahikawa (approx. 80 minutes).

Where to Stay: 9 C Hotel Asahikawa (Budget) | OMO7 Asahikawa by Hoshino Resorts (Splurge)

#7 | Izu Peninsula

Nestled around 100km southwest of Tokyo, the mountainous Izu Peninsula is one of Japan’s stunning natural hidden gems. 

Expect to see impressive rock formations, stunning beaches and lush greeneries. Also, make sure to visit Mount Omuro – one of the largest volcanoes in the Izu region.

Being so close to Tokyo, it is the perfect day trip destination for anyone looking to escape the city. But being a resort area, it’s perfect for a weekend getaway with beautiful hotels and hot springs – so you might want to stay a little longer.

How to Get There:  The train from Tokyo to the peninsula takes about 50 minutes.

Where to Stay: Hostel Knot (Budget) | AWA Nishi-Izu (Splurge)

#8 | Niigata

Niigata is the capital city of the Niigata Prefecture located on the west coast of Japan. Set along the coast of the Sea of Japan, Niigata is famed for its rice (make sure to discover all the majestic rice fields) and incredible sake. 

In whichever season you decide to travel to Niigata, know it will be a pleasant surprise. In summer – enjoy the spectacular fireworks, while in winter – put on your snow boots and hop on the slopes. 

How to Get There:  The city is easily accessed by train from almost any part of the country, but the most common route is from Tokyo.

Where to Stay: Niigata Book Inn (Budget) | Hotel Oohashi Yakata-no-Yu (Splurge)

#9 | Kyushu

If you really want to experience hidden Japan, Kyushu is the right place to be. Active volcanoes, natural hot springs, mouth-watering food, and a bustling metropolis – it is hard to describe the colourful island in just one sentence. 

The southernmost of Japan’s main islands, Kyushu’s sub-tropical climate is popular amongst surfers who enjoy catching waves between Hyuga and Cape Toi. 

The island also offers active volcanos, beautiful beaches, pumping waves, and natural hot springs. When hunger kicks in, satisfy your inner foodie by tasting Kyushu’s famous porky Hakata ramen. 

How to Get There:  From Tokyo Station, a train ride to Kyushu takes about 5 hours.

Where to Stay: Shinshiyo (Budget) | Ryokan Shinsen (Splurge)

#10 | Naoshima Island

Admirers of modern art will surely enjoy a visit to Naoshima Island and, more specifically – the  Benesse Art Museum . A trip to the beautiful destination wouldn’t be the same without seeing the Giant Pumpkin – a famous sculpture by Yayoi Kusama.

But even if art isn’t your thing, the island will be a pleasant surprise. Simply rent a bike and explore Naoshima and its breathtaking surroundings. 

How to Get There:  Hop on a train from Osaka to Okayama

Where to Stay: Hotel Art Rock (Budget) | Naoshima Juju Art House (Splurge)

#11 | Tottori

Located on the western coast along the Sea of Japan, Tottori is far different from many of these other Japan hidden spots. While most places in Japan offer volcanos and hot springs, Tottori offers massive sand dunes and ancient ruins.

Yep, in fact Tottori is well known for its glorious sand dunes, which are the largest in Japan – they cover more than 30 square kilometres. The ruins of the former feudal castle are also a must-see.

When getting off the beaten path in Japan, don’t forget to discover the Uradome Coast which features impressive rocky islands, breathtaking sandy beaches, and beautiful pine trees. 

How to Get There:  Take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Shin-Osaka Station. Then make a change to Super Hakuto. Plan about 6 hours for the whole journey.

Where to Stay: Drop Inn Tottori (Budget) | Super Hotel Tottori Ekimae (Splurge)

#13 | Kanazawa

At first glance, Kanazawa might seem like your typical urban destination. But as you look deeper, you will find that it has plenty of traditions and even thought-provoking crafts. It’s also the place to go if you want to see the famed snow monkeys!

Up until recently, the capital city of Ishikawa Prefecture was tourist-free. Now, it has become a must-hit stop for amazing food, culture and art. So, when you’re tired of wandering around Tokyo, hop on a bullet train and just in three hours, you will arrive in the beautiful city.

How to Get There:  Catch the JR Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo

Where to Stay: Hotel Pacific Kanazawa (Budget) | Hyatt Centric Kanazawa (Splurge)

#14 | Nikko

Japan is famed for its pulsing energy and vibrant way of life, but that can be a bit tiring for some. If you’re looking for a spot to calm your mind, plan a trip to  Nikko National Park  – a great place to learn more about the country’s traditions and World Heritage Sites. 

Located just a two-hour train ride away from Tokyo, the city will surprise you with its mountain wilderness and stunning temples. Although Nikko is mostly regarded as a day trip destination, you won’t regret staying a few nights there.

How to Get There:  Catch the JR Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Utsunomiya Station and transfer to the JR Nikko Line.

Where to Stay: Minshuku Fukufuji (Budget) | The Ritz-Carlton Nikko (Splurge)

#15 | Matsumoto

Last, but not least, on this list of places to go off the beaten track in Japan is the city where you will see one of Japan’s most stunning castles – Matusmoto, the second largest city in Nagano Prefecture.

Matusmoto is surrounded by the Japanese Alps, its beauty is truly mesmerising. It’s a great place to base yourself for access to mountain resorts, skiing and winter activities. 

Wander around the streets of Matsumoto and enjoy its delightful cafes, or in winter check out the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, a unique road through the alps cut through the snow forming a majestic “snow corridor”, where the snow walls on either side can tower as high as 20 metres.

How to Get There:  The train journey between Tokyo’s Shinjuku Station and Matsumoto takes just a bit more than 2.5 hours.

Where to Stay: cafe&stay CASTANA (Budget) | Shoho (Splurge)

Looking for More Japan Hidden Gems?

If you’re looking to discover more Japan off the beaten path places, then here are 15 additional spots that didn’t make the cut for this article but are still worth considering:

• Yukushima Island
• Sado Island
• Mount Koyasan
• Historic villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama
• Takachiho Gorge
• Geibikei Gorge
• Shizuoka City

Have we missed any noteworthy Japan hidden gems?  Can you recommend other off the beaten path places in Japan for other visitors to check out? Let our readers know about them in the comments below!

Map of Hidden Gems in Japan

Ready to Book Your Trip to Japan?

Not only does Japan offer some amazing hidden gems, but the country as a whole is also a true gem in the world, waiting to be discovered!

We hope this article has helped you to find some off the beaten path places to visit on your next trip to the land of the rising sun! To make the most of your trip, be sure to check out the latest travel information and restrictions by visiting the  official Japan tourism website . 

Also, don’t forget to check out our other  Japan  travel blog articles:

Read More About Japan:

• The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Trip to Japan for First Timers
• 30+ Places to Get Off the Beaten Path in Japan
• The Ultimate Japan Bucket List: 230+ Experiences
• 20 Things You Should Know before Visiting Japan for the First Time

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Use the search box below to take advantage of the  Booking.com  Best Price Guarantee and get the best rates on accommodation in Japan!

Feeling inspired?  Here are  10 amazing destinations you must add to your Travel Bucket List !

About the Author:

Amanda Twine is the founder and creator of Bucket List Seekers – a luxury travel blog sharing informative travel guides, food guides, hotel reviews, itineraries, and tips about how to make luxury travel more affordable.

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Home » Travel » Destinations » Japan Off the Beaten Path: 16 Amazing Japan Hidden Gems

Japan Off the Beaten Path: 16 Amazing Japan Hidden Gems

When planning a dream trip to Japan, the bustling cities of Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka usually spring to mind. But it would be a mistake not to explore Japan off the beaten path, even if it’s your first trip to the country.

The Land of the Rising Sun is incredibly diverse, with so much to see and experience throughout its islands. From moss-covered primeval forests to charming fishing villages, the possibilities are endless. It’s why I’ve traveled to Japan three times in three years, with a fourth trip in the works!

If you’re looking for authentic and unique things to do in Japan, add a few of these amazing destinations to your itinerary alongside the country’s famous sights .

To make things even easier, I’ve included tips to reach these hidden gems in Japan by public transit.

This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, click here .

RELATED: The Essential Japan Travel Checklist for Stress-Free Planning

Shirakawa-go

Tucked away in a mountain valley of Gift Prefecture, Shirakawa-go is a 1,000-year-old village that’s recently become my #1 favorite destination in Japan.

Thanks to its remote location, the area remained relatively undisturbed during the country’s long and occasionally destructive history, leaving its beautiful and unique Gassho-style farmhouses preserved to this day.

Along with its neighbor, Gokayama, it was placed on the  UNESCO World Heritage list  in 1995.

Best known for its thatched-roof A-frame buildings reminiscent of Swiss ski chalets, it’s the stunning landscape as a whole that makes Shirakawa-go worth getting off the beaten track in Japan. Between the towering pine trees, rice paddies, undulating streams, and snowy mountain backdrop, there are few places in the world that rival the village’s “stuck out of time” appearance.

There are no train stations within walking distance of Shirakawa-go. Instead, visitors need to drive themselves or take a highway bus. Nohi Bus operates the route from a number of nearby cities including Kanazawa and Takayama, and reservations–mandatory for most journeys–can be made online up to a month in advance.

Bus from Takayama Station: 50 minutes Bus from Kanazawa Station: 1 hour 20 minutes

Shizuoka City

Despite its location along the “Golden Route”, Shizuoka City remains off the tourist radar. And that’s a shame, because this beautiful destination is easily one of the top places to visit between Tokyo and Kyoto .

If you’re longing for great views of Mount Fuji, you’re in luck! Shizuoka City has two amazing spots for breathtaking Fuji-san sightings.

The Nihondaira park and observatory sits at the top of Mt. Udo, and it’s totally free to enter. You’ll get 360 degree views over Shizuoka prefecture, along with lovely walking paths dotted with winter sakura blossoms.

For oceanfront views of Mt. Fuji, head to Miho no Matsubara. This tree-lined beach is considered one of Japan’s best scenic points, even if Fuji-san is obscured by clouds or fog.

Shizuoka city was also the former home base of the Ieyasu shogunate. Remnants of their castle stronghold, Sunpu, remain in the city center surrounded by a lovely public park. And their most famous leader, Tokugawa Ieyasu, was enshrined outside the city at Kunozan Tosho-gu.

Kunozan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with wonderfully colorful buildings spread across the mountainside overlooking the ocean. Getting here is also part of the fun. A scenic cable car ropeway connects Nihondaira overlook and Kunozan Tosho-gu shrine, offering stunning views over the forest and water.

Shizuoka lies on the Tokaido Shinkansen line, which JR pass holders can ride for free with no reservation needed. The city is well-connected by public transit, so you can visit all the highlights without a car (though a car/taxi is recommended to reach Miho no Matsubara).

Nearest train station: Shizuoka Station

Don’t Forget Your Japan Rail Pass!

Buying a Japan Rail Pass will save you a ton of time and money when traveling across Japan.

I’ve purchased a JR pass for two out of three Japan trips, and here’s why:

– Free bullet trains and reservations : Quickly travel all over Japan to maximize vacation time.

– Easy to use: Just show your pass to the gate attendant and walk to your train!

– Affordable day trips: Visit unique places like Matsumoto, Shizuoka, and more without spending a fortune on tickets.

Order your Japan Rail Pass now for speedy delivery!

Izu Peninsula

You know it’s one of the best hidden gems to see in Japan when the locals visit it. And Izu Peninsula is the go-to resort destination for Tokyo residents.

Less than a two hour train ride south, the Izu Peninsula is a mountainous peninsula on the Pacific coast with rugged, less developed and rural areas in the west, and more developed towns, beaches and onsens on the east coast.

This popular weekend getaway from Tokyo is a great change of pace and scenery if you’ve been visiting the major cities, with famous onsen resorts such as Shuzenji which not only offers bathhouses, but also meditation classes. Ito and Atami are also popular hot spring towns with ocean views.

For the more adventurous travelers, the west coast of the peninsula offers incredible views of Mount Fuji on a clear day as well as multiple walking trails, such as the Irozaki coastal trail.

Jogasaki and the Kawazu Nanadaru waterfall trails are both located on the south and south-eastern tip of the peninsula and offer beautiful views, with the waterfall trail passing through seven waterfalls in the mountain region.

Nearest train station: Izu Station

Most people who visit Matsumoto come for one reason: Matsumoto Castle.

Considered one of Japan’s “perfect castles”, Matsumoto Castle is still a hidden gem among foreigners. Its unique dark roof and borders set the structure apart from other castles in the country. And with a mountainous backdrop, swan-filled reflection pool, and long red bridge, it’s one of the most photogenic places in Japan.

Aside from the iconic castle, Nakamachi Street is a must see. This historic road is lined with black-and-white kura –traditional storehouses that have since been converted into shops. Visitors can find everything from handmade pottery to wooden crafts, along with some cozy cafes.

If you’re traveling through Nagano prefecture or nearby Gifu, you won’t regret a quick detour to Matsumoto.

Nearest train station: Matsumoto Station

Nestled in a semi-remote valley in Nagano prefecture, Kamikochi National Park is renowned for its natural beauty. If you’re visiting Japan in October or early November, you’ll be greeted by red maples, golden larches, and yellow grasses.

During a half day trek, you’ll cross a winding river, pass beneath towering trees, and balance on wooden planks suspended over a marsh, among other adventures. Everyone from young children to the elderly can traverse the well-defined circuit, while those looking for a challenge can set off on the rugged mountain trails.

With no cars allowed in the park, Kamikochi is firmly off the beaten path in Japan. However, you can easily plan your visit with my detailed Kamikochi hiking guide !

Nearest train station: Shinshimashima Station (can take a bus into the park from this point)

If you love nature and quiet places, you’ll love exploring Togakushi’s famous towering cedar trees and mountain shrines. Located in Nagano prefecture, this Japan hidden gem is best known for its shrine path, which winds through the village and forest to the summit of Mt. Togakushi.

There are five shrines on the path, though you can ride the Alpico bus part-way up the mountain if you don’t have the time or energy to complete the full journey.

In addition to the shrine path, Togakushi boasts stunning forest trails, a botanical garden, and a “mirror pond” ( Kagami-ike) . On calm days, the lake perfectly reflects the sky and mountains. It’s utterly magical and well worth getting off the beaten path in Japan.

If you’re travelling alone in Japan or visiting in winter, put Togakushi on your itinerary.

Nearest train station: Nagano Station (take the Alpico Bus #70 or #73 from the stand across the street)

Save me for later!

Located on Japan’s Shikoku Island in Ehime Prefecture, Matsuyama is famous for its traditional Japanese architecture, with detailed wooden houses and buildings dating from the Meji Period.

The journey to Shikoku Island and Matsuyama is well worth going off the beaten track to visit the city’s traditional Dōgo Onsen, which claims to be Japan’s oldest hot spring. Said to have inspired the setting of Spirited Away , these bathhouses are a unique Japanese experience, with soaking rooms, private baths and traditional tea and snacks on offer.

If you reach the Onsen by train, take some time to admire the Botchan Karakuri Clock which is outside of Dōgo Onsen station and was erected to mark the 100th anniversary of Dōgo Onsen. Every hour the clock chimes and the characters come alive to show scenes from the famous Japanese novel, Botchan . The station is also home to the Botchan steam locomotive.

Matsuyama Castle is a beautiful Japanese castle uniquely positioned on a large hill in the middle of the city, offering panoramic views of Matsuyama and beyond. But it really comes into its own during spring when the cherry blossoms ( sakura ) are in full bloom.

Nearest train station: Matsuyama Station

Just an hour and a half from Osaka and 30 minutes from Okayama, Kurashiki is a small city found in Okayama Prefecture. The city’s fascinating central canal area is often likened to Venice and dates back to the Edo Period. With willow-draped waterways and historic buildings, taking a canal cruise in Kurashiki is a must-do activity.

The city’s old rice storehouses have been converted into museums and quirky shops and cafes in the Bikan historic quarter, perfect for an afternoon of shopping and exploring. Interestingly, Kurashiki is the birthplace of denim in Japan, so you’ll find no shortage of denim jeans, jackets, shirts and accessories, even denim ice cream to try!

The historic district is also home to the Ohara Museum of Art which is a stunning museum not only of Japanese art, but also some of the most famous western artists in the world – Monet, Matisse and Warhol to name a few.

In the centre of the city, Achi Shrine is a traditional Shinto shrine which offers views across the city, just prepare yourself for the climb up 200 steps!

Kurashiki makes for a great off-path addition to an Osaka Kyoto Nara itinerary .

Nearest train station: Kurashiki Station

Otaru is situated just one hour from Sapporo in Hokkaido Prefecture. While Otaru is also home to a canal district, this port city is actually more famous for its glassworks and distilleries.

The Otaru Canal sits just behind the harbour area and the canal cruises take you on a historic tour of the old warehouses. Now, the warehouses are home to lively restaurants and shops which line the canalfront. The brick buildings and canal walk are magical when it’s lively and lit up in the evenings.

A unique experience in Japan off the beaten path is to visit a sake distillery. Sake is Japanese rice wine and Otaru features several sake distilleries, such as the Tanaka Sake Brewery where you can book tours and tastings. But if you’re not a sake fan, Otaru is also home to the Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery, a Japanese whisky distillery that offers free tours.

Nearest train station: Otaru Station

Geibikei Gorge

If you’re looking for Japan hidden gems, Geibikei Gorge should be at the top of your list. Whilst many visitors to Japan are familiar with the natural beauty of Takachiho Gorge in the south of Japan, Geibikei Gorge in the northern Iwate Prefecture is much less visited but arguably more scenic.

Geibikei Gorge was named a National Place of Scenic Beauty and Natural Monument in 1923 and is designated as one of the 100 Landscapes of Japan.

The dramatic cliffs and tree lined water are spectacular in autumn when the trees become vibrant shades of yellow and orange alongside the turquoise blue water.

There are regular guided boat rides through the gorge which last for about 90 minutes with an optional walk at the turning point. Times and prices can be found on the Geibikei Gorge website .

Nearest train station: Geibikei Station

If you’re visiting Japan in the summer, Lake Biwa is an excellent day trip from Kyoto . Japan’s largest freshwater lake is where you’ll find locals swimming, kayaking, fishing, and generally enjoy the gorgeous surroundings.

Scenic points dot Lake Biwa’s coast, including Ishiyama-dera Temple, Mii-dera Temple complex, Kaizu Osaki’s cherry blossom park, Hikone Castle, and the “floating” Shirahige Torii gate. There are multiple cycling trails around the lake, and bike rental shops are plentiful in the coastal towns.

If you’re a fan of boat tours, Lake Biwa has multiple operators including a vintage paddle boat dubbed The Michigan that cruises around the southern waters.

Lake Biwa area is best explored by bike or car. However, it’s easy to explore the beautiful temples and shrines on the western shore thanks to the train lines that encircle the coast.

Check out my complete Lake Biwa day trip itinerary to plan your visit!

Nearest station: Biwako-Hamaotsu Station (there are numerous other stations along the lake) 

There aren’t many places in Japan which are off the beaten path completely, but without a local train station, the fishing village of Funaya really is one of the hidden gems in Japan.

To reach Funaya, you will need to take a train from Kyoto to Miyazu Station, followed by one of the local buses to reach Funaya. Buses to get around the area are irregular, but there are plenty of bikes which are free to use to cover the shorter distances rather than waiting for a bus!

But this quaint coastal village is well worth the journey. The traditional fisherman’s houses, called Funaya, are right on the water’s edge for easy water access with their boats. The best way to see these unique houses is from the water and a regular sightseeing ferry runs throughout the day from Ine Marina.

Some of the fisherman’s houses have now been converted to guest accommodation for the experience of feeling like you’re sleeping above the sea.

Funaya is a fantastic add-on to a Kyoto itinerary .

Nearest train station: Miyazu Station

One of the most spectacular hidden things to do in Japan is seeing the huge temple complex at Mount Kōya. Kōya-san is the mountain name of the area in Wakayama Prefecture.

Mount Kōya is significant because it’s the origin of Shingon Buddhism and was founded by Kobo Daishi in Japan in 805 who also built the original mountaintop temple. Now there are over 100 temples in the surrounding area.

Okunoin is one of the most important and most spectacular of these temples as it’s the site of Kobo Daishi’s mausoleum. To reach Okunoin temple you walk through the eerie Okunoin Cemetery – the largest cemetery in Japan with over 200,000 tombstones on a kilometer long track to reach the Mausoleum.

Mount Kōya is also one of the best places in Japan to experience an overnight temple stay because there’s such a large number of temples to choose from. Be sure to book your ryokan or temple stay well in advance, as reservations fill up quickly.

Kōyasan is reached by a cable car that rises above the clouds from Gokurakubashi station to reach the mountain temple complex.

Nearest train station: Gokurakubashi Station

Yufu is an off the beaten track Japan destination because it’s a relatively young city, only established in 2005.

However it’s most well-known for Mount Yufu, the two-peak mountain in Oita. Climbing Mount Oita is a moderate climb which can be done in a 4-5 hour round trip from the trailhead.

Mount Yufu isn’t the only striking natural scenery in the area though. Kirin Lake is a picturesque lake known for its misty mornings and the hot springs and nature trails that surround it. The Yufu Onsen resort village here is perfect for nature lovers who like to spend time outdoors and enjoy the relaxing hot springs too.

The vibrant Yunotsubo Street is a shopping street in the city which connects Yufuin Station to Kirin Lake. Its Studio Ghibli-esque atmosphere promises to turn Yufuin into a tourist hotspot. The street is lined with shops selling traditional Japanese specialty products, whimsical souvenirs, and local food dishes. 

Nearest train station: Yufuin Station or Tenjin-Yama Station

Yakushima Island

Yakushima Island is an island located off the southern tip of Japan’s Kagoshima Prefecture and this off the beaten path Japan destination can only be reached by airplane or by taking the train to Kagoshima and changing to a ferry.

The subtropical position of this island makes it an absolutely magical place to experience, especially as the island is known for its dramatic mountainous terrain and Japanese Cedar trees, some of which are over 1000 years old. The oldest tree, Jomonsugi, is believed to be the oldest at somewhere between 2000-7200 years old!

In fact the island is so unique that it’s been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site for its natural beauty. If you’re looking to explore Japan off the beaten path, it doesn’t get better than this with magical and mysterious trails winding through the cedar forests.

The island is popular with hikers and outdoor enthusiasts thanks to the trails but is also popular with Princess Mononoke fans thanks to the Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine. The Ravine is a fascinating, green, moss-covered forest which served as the inspiration for the Princess Mononoke movie. The ravine has multiple hiking trails of varying lengths and difficulties.

Nearest train station: Kagoshima Station

Fukuoka is the capital city of Fukuoka Prefecture on Japan’s southern Kyushu Island. The city is full of ancient temples with historic and religious significance, the oldest of which is Tōchō-ji Temple, founded in 806 and home to a 10m tall wooden Buddha statue. Tucked in the middle of the city, the five tier pagoda is striking among the city buildings.

A short walk out of the city centre takes you to the Fukuoka Castle ruins in Maizuru Park, although the majority of the castle walls are intact, the Edo castle itself is in ruin. By climbing the walls, you have a view of the city and the park, which is full of hundreds of sakura trees in spring.

If you’re looking for more quirky things to do in Japan, head to Fukuoka’s Ramen Stadium. This food court is home to dozens of ramen stations with different types of ramen from all over Japan, including the local Hakata ramen variety.

Nearest train station: Hakata Station

Are you ready to check these hidden gems in Japan off your bucket list? Here are some helpful resources to plan your perfect trip!

• 12 Things Not to Do in Japan
• Unique 10 Day Japan Itinerary: Highlights & Hidden Gems
• 11 Best Day Trips from Tokyo by Bullet Train

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4D3N Non-Touristy Tokyo Itinerary — New Things to Do in Japan 2023

A Japan itinerary for travellers looking for new gems in Tokyo .

To me, Tokyo is Japan’s neon source of endless inspiration. People say it’s over-glorified, but I always stumble upon something that opens my eyes while I’m there.

Whether it be mouthwatering bites or scenic hideouts, I find reasons to return each time I try to say my final goodbye.

Photo credit: Go Tokyo

If it’s your first time in Japan, be sure to check out the  8-Day Japan Itinerary For First Timers Under S$700 — Tokyo to Osaka for all the quintessential things to do.

Once you’ve crossed off all the classic eat-see-and-dos in Tokyo, here’s a quick 4-day itinerary exploring Tokyo’s other gems!

Day 1 — Mount Fuji, Murakami and Madness

This first day is a reminder why everyone and their mother adores Japan — familiar favourites, but with a twist.

Bunkyo Observation Lounge for skyline views

Photo credit: Andrew Hartsell via PhotoHound

While most flood to the Shibuya Skydeck to take in Tokyo’s views, the Bunkyo Civic Center observation lounge is where you can slowly savour the spectacle without crowds. Not to mention, entry is free!

Photo credit: Travelling Japan

Take the elevator up to the 25th floor to experience a beautiful 330° view of Tokyo in all its dazzling glory. The strategically slanted glass panes also ensure that the sun glare doesn’t have you squinting to appreciate the view. 

*Pro-tip: When planning out your day, try to position this at sunrise or sunset for coloured skies! It’s also prime time to catch Mount Fuji. 🗻

Entrance fee:  Free Opening hours:  9AM – 8:30PM How to get there:  4min walk from Korakuen Station ( Google Maps )

Murakami’s Library: The Waseda International House of Literature 

Photo credit: Tokyo Cheapo

You don’t have to be a reader to have at least heard of the name Haruki Murakami — Japan’s greatest literary luminary. 🌟

Known as the “Haruki Murakami Library” for its extensive archive of Murakami’s works, The Waseda International House of Literature is a key destination for some culture and quiet on your next trip to Tokyo. It’s where Murakami used to study theatre! 🎭

Photo credit: Fuzzable.com

Opened in 2021, the library is located on the campus of Waseda University . It holds all his published works in Japanese and translated counterparts (in over 50 languages)! 📚👓 Besides his titles, there’s also a collection of Murakami-related materials, such as book reviews, interview articles and more.

Most striking is the bevy of Murakami’s personal items that he had bestowed upon the library! He spoke about his donations in an interview, saying that passing on these rough drafts, hand-written manuscripts and some 20,000 vinyl records here felt like the most natural thing to do since he has no children to inherit his possessions. My nosey ass would have the time of my life here… 

Even if you’re not a fan of his works, this is a lovely place to be, apart from all that Murakami jazz. The stunning design of the place has Kengo Kuma to thank, a world-famous architect. I’m most entranced by its café, Orange Cat, and the accompanying listening lounge. I could spend forever in a space like this.

*Pro-tip: Secure your visit via Waseda University’s website — each slot lasts 1hr 30mins and accommodates 30 people.  

Entrance fee:  Free Opening hours:  10AM – 5PM How to get there:  4min walk from Waseda Station ( Google Maps )

Karaoke on a Ferris Wheel at Tokyo Dome City

Tokyo Dome City is genius to feature a karaoke system on their ferris wheel! Each carriage is equipped with two microphones connected to a karaoke machine. 🎤🎡

(You are… My FIRE… The one… desiiire…❤️‍🔥)

Belting out classics with the vast twinkling cityscape beneath us had me feeling like I was on top of the world in more ways than one. I can’t emphasise enough how carefree and full of joy this experience was.  

Unlike most theme parks, this one doesn’t need you to set aside an entire day. Other than the Big O Ferris Wheel , this chill amusement park has a roller coaster, the classic teacup, a self-controlled tower drop, game stalls and even a haunted house while we were there (during spooky season!) 

We got the Ride 5 Ticket from Klook. It gives you passes to use at five selected attractions — I’d recommend spending at least 2 on the ferris wheel. You’ll find two queues there, one for the karaoke (only 8 gondolas have that function) which racks up a long waiting time, and one for a typical ride. 

Entrance fee: ~S$13 Opening hours:  10AM – 9PM How to get there:  4min walk from Korakuen Station ( Google Maps )

Day 2 — Day Trip from Tokyo to Kanagawa

To witness the most splendid sunset views, journey to Kanagawa, a neighbouring prefecture! Begin with somewhere that captures Tokyo’s lively spirit and stop by a character-themed attraction (aka Japan’s speciality) on your way out.

Attend A Cultural/Seasonal Festival – like this Setagaya Bread Festival

A good example is Nihonbashi-Kyōbashi Festival , which celebrates… the Nihonbashi Highway. Yes, a highway. Photo credit: Tokyo Cheapo

Japan holds such elaborately quirky celebrations every other day, and they’re always so vibrant and full of energy. It only makes sense when you consider Japan’s perfectionist, detail-oriented edge and their unmatched ability to make something over-the-top fun 🎏

There are calendars available to check out which festivities coincide with your trip dates! 

If I were a Superhero, I’d be a Bread Hero. Saving the world from bread. Saving the world with bread. Saving bread. Something like that.

We made it to the Setagaya Bread Festival , which takes place annually at Setagaya Park for a selected weekend (typically in late October, but check the website for more accurate details).

I love bread — when I was a child, I stuffed my face with bread so much that my mom would threaten that if I didn’t slow down, I’d literally transform into bread. (“你不要吃太多面包啦，变成面包才知道!”) (It didn’t work. I kept eating.) Coming from me, this festival’s the best invention since sliced bread.  🍞🕺

Surprisingly, we conquered this gigantic queue (that stretched the entire street and folded thrice) in under half an hour!

It’s a whole sea of jolly bread-loving beings, so don’t be surprised if you get swept up while navigating through the labyrinth of tents. We just ambled along until we saw a booth that caught our appetite’s attention!

How fascinating is it that all these people want to celebrate bread? It was silly and wholesome, and made my heart happy. 

There was even a Best Bread Contest, with a giant scoreboard (and fanatics crowding around to take pictures of the ranking), as well as little signs proudly set up on the tables of respective winning stalls. I remember enjoying how extra everything was!

It goes without saying that the bread was heavenly. Shai treated herself to pizza bread while I tried an earl grey-chocolate bun — it was miraculously dense and fluffy at the same time, and I swear I saw colours in the flavours (like in Ratatouille).

There was a grassy hill surrounding a water fountain where many others lounged with their own baked goods. We found a spot by a tree and made it our haven for a while, savouring each bite while soaking in the sun 🌞

*Pro-tip: Make it as early as possible as stalls have limited stock. We arrived at 3PM and by then two-thirds of the bread supply had run out. 

How to get there:  12min walk from Ikejiri-ōhashi station ( Google Maps )

Teatime with Snoopy at the Snoopy Museum Tokyo

Reconnect with an old childhood friend at the Snoopy Museum Tokyo .

Located within Minami-machida Grandberry Park , the museum’s exhibitions were as adorable as they were informative. Each level was so drastically different that walking through a new doorway felt like magic all over again 🪄

The most wonderful surprise came with the first step into the museum, where a playful animation of the Peanuts gang was projected onto the walls. It promptly reminded me of the personalities of each character and amped up my excitement to explore the rest of the place ⭐

*Note: Use the toilet and have a meal beforehand as re-entry is prohibited!

I adored Snoopy as kid. I’d race home after a morning visit to the library and sink into my couch with a towering stack of comics by my side. These were some of my fondest memories as a kid so, coming here was like a warm hug 🫂

If you have more time, you can spend some time at Grandberry Park , which makes for a good picnic spot (if you don’t already have plans to dine at the adjacent Peanuts Cafe ).

*Pro-tip: Clear most of your souvenir-hunting early here (I did)! Besides BROWN’S STORE in the museum, which offers unique Snoopy merchandise galore, there’s also a nearby Sanrio store , too.  

Entrance fee : ¥1,800 (~S$17) Opening hours:  10AM – 6PM How to get there:  4min walk from Minamimachida Granbury Park Station ( Google Maps )

See Mount Fuji from a Slide at Ninomiya Azumayama Park

Ninomiya Azumayama Park is exactly the kind of place that people in movies say “Follow me, I know a spot,” . There was a seemingly endless field of greenery, and there was not another person in sight when we were there.

It felt almost like we were the only people left in the world, but in a peaceful way instead of eerie. Like we could do anything we wanted simply for the fullness of our hearts, not a care for expectations to meet or responsibilities to handle.

This hidden vantage point of Mount Fuji offers the most dreamlike scenery I’ve ever witnessed. It’s admittedly quite far out (and up — a hill), but I promise it was worth every step. There was a glittery seascape and Ghibli-esque paddy fields awaiting at the summit! 🌊✨

What the view could look like on a clear day! Photo credit: @tokyo.daytrip_kanagawa via Instagram

Notably, there’s an old-school slide to play on, and it’s said that you can see Mount Fuji riding down! ⛰️ But the rainy weather sadly stood between us and that fun (how inconsiderate…) So beware to check the weather forecast twice before making your trip over.

Still, I thought it was a tranquil place to be and the hike wasn’t too exhausting. There was even a cultural monument to admire on our way up — this gorgeous traditional Ninomiya Shrine.

It’s now on my bucket list to come up here with my girlfriends to catch the sunset with a picnic and watch the clouds float by 🍃☁️🧺🌄

*Pro-tip: Time your visits wisely to see Mount Fuji. Dawn or dusk is a good gauge for a panoramic lookout, but check for weather and visibility too! Otherwise, there are always other opportunities around besides the two listed here.

Entrance fee:  Free Opening hours:  8:30AM – 5PM How to get there:  10min walk from Ninomiya Station ( Google Maps )

Day 3 — Shopping at Shimokitazawa and Suspicious (but Scrumptious) Sushi

These boots are made for walkin’ 🎶 and that’s just what they’ll do 🎵

Bask in Japan’s countryside charm at Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum

Speaking about architecture — here, art meets history and culture! Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum showcases Tokyo’s centuries-old townscapes. 

It features traditional buildings, from bathhouses and teahouses to prominent people’s private residential homes, such as that of Korekiyo Takahashi (Prime Minister of Japan from 1921 to 1922). They were moved and/or reconstructed here to be preserved, so that we can now freely enter these buildings!

One of the structures has an in-built café for refreshments!

I sincerely enjoyed taking in the rustic beauty of all the authentic structures, and it was so surreal to think about their historical significance. It was like all the Japanese films came to life!

From more traditional houses (like the one in Totoro ) to the quaint street of shops (including a florist boutique and cigarette storefronts), each complex was a delicate marvel in its own way. 

*Pro-tip: You can leave bulky belongings in a locker at the entrance for ¥10 (full refund given). And we recommend wearing shoes that are easily slipped on/off — you’ll have to take them off to enter each building. For photographers, take note that tripods are not allowed indoors.

Entrance fee:  ¥400 Opening hours:  9:30AM – 4:30PM, closed on Mon How to get there:  12-15 min bus ride from Musashi Koganei Station ( Google Maps )

Read also: How to Experience Ghibli Magic in Tokyo — a Miyazaki-inspired Adventure

Thrifting at Shimokitazawa

Photo credit: DIGJAPAN!

To still indulge in Japan’s fashion scene while side-stepping the human-jam, set your maps to Shimokitazawa!

Known to be a hipster scene, Shimokitazawa is home to vintage boutiques, bookshops, vinyl stores and dinky cafés. It’s much quieter here, despite being a stone’s throw away from hotspots like Harajuku and Shinjuku. There are still crowds for that palpable sense of zest, but not to the extent of feeling smothering.

Meandering through shopping districts is one of the most exciting things to do in Japan. It may sound simple, but here, the streets are runways — you’ll never spot the same outfit twice.

Styles ranging from punk to lolita to ulzzang fashion are flaunted left and right. It’s like being ‘overdressed’ is a concept that has never stepped foot in Japan’s shopping neighbourhoods. 

For a postcard view of the neighbourhood from a rooftop, head over to reload ! Aside from shops, there are also coffee roasters and eateries for a munch break in this avant-garde complex .

reload Opening hours: 11AM – 8PM How to get there:  6min walk from Shimo-Kitazawa Station ( Google Maps )

7-Cents Sushi for Dinner at Namae-no-Nai-Sushi-ya

This dingy little alley restaurant, Namae-no-nai-sushiya (which translates to no-name-sushi-place ) , actually has sushi for S$0.07 (¥100) on their menu.

The alley leading to the shop felt a little shady so I kept my guard up. But the restaurant itself made us feel right at home.

The appetiser was a soothing bowl of hot soup with pork innards. We also ordered two plates of the Chef-recommended sashimi , along with tuna, salmon and unagi sushi (all raw), as well as two mandatory drinks (non-alcohol options are fine, we had tea).

When the sushi found its way into my mouth, I was rebirthed. It was so fresh. Shai can vouch that we almost tasted the ocean in the unagi! And it was a generous portion, which gave it a satisfying bite. The feast amounted to a guiltless ~$35 bill, which only made it taste better.

I’m a sucker for budget sashimi (I indulge in it every other day even in Singapore), so having it this exquisite and for so much cheaper was a spiritual experience for me. If I’m ever back in Tokyo solo, I’d be back every day for all three meals. 

From left to right: Master Taira (with over a decade worth of experience in sushi-crafting), Mitzki (rocking blunt bangs and a blinged grill), Ryohei (a friendly giant with the most endearing haircut)

An unexpected merit was how warm and constructive the service was. Our waiter, Ryohei Torumi, patiently communicated with us in English as he took our order.

If you’re wondering how the place stays afloat and why it chooses to charge so selflessly when the quality of food was sky-high, you can find out why in this article — this conversation ended up being one of my most cherished travel experiences.

Opening hours:  5PM – 11:30PM, closed on Mon How to get there:  3min walk from Shibuya station ( Google Maps )

Day 4 — Last Hurrah of Fun at Sanrio Puroland 

My dad swears by finishing any trip with a theme park for a fairytale ending! 🧚

Sanrio Puroland

As an outright roller coaster coward, I often feel sheepish at theme parks, knowing the hefty price I pay despite sitting out of prime attractions. I still go though, because I just adore the charm of theme parks. This makes Sanrio Puroland a paradise for me — it doesn’t focus on big rides, and it’s comparatively inexpensive ( ~S$26 on Klook ).

Unlike most theme parks, Sanrio Puroland is fully indoors and is much smaller in size. Its queues also have unbelievably short waiting times, ranging from 5 minutes to 40 minutes in our experience (we were there on a Saturday from 9AM – 1PM).  

Our favourite activity is the Sanrio Character Boat Ride, where we “attended” Hello Kitty’s wedding with every other Sanrio character, even the more obscure ones like Marroncream and Wish Me Mell .

The best part was that it felt never-ending. Every time I was bummed out anticipating the finish, another door opened and the boat kept going :0 (It lasted ~25min)

While we were on the ride, a show was coincidentally being put on. The timing was a miracle — at the part where the boat left the tunnels, we caught an overview of the park being lit up!

I also brought home the sweetest souvenirs. At Sanrio Puroland, there’s an assortment of customisable merchandise, including name stickers with dozens of character designs to choose from and photocards from the boat ride with custom digital decoration. 

If you’re willing to trade thrill for delight, you’ll love Sanrio Puroland as I did.

Entrance fee:  ~S$26 Opening hours:   Varies How to get there:  9min walk from Keio-Tama-Center Station ( Google Maps )

Dinner served on a boat at Hinadoriyama

Saving my most memorable dining experience for last, this is Hinadoriyama — where dinner is served on a mini boat that floats down a stream to your dining room.

Located in a traditional yet in a whimsical dining space, we were greeted by a watermill at the entrance, and charming little statues along the path to to our own private dining room.

The first step was to place our order with a kind obasan (grandma) . The staff doesn’t speak English but they go the extra mile to make sure you’re attended to.

*Pro-tip : Browse their site with Chrome’s translation function beforehand to know what to expect — especially with their menu items!

The minimal requirement is to order two main courses. After that, she passed us a key with a bell that indicated our room. It also serves as a receipt to bring to the counter for payment. 

The restaurant specialises in robatayaki (“fireside-cooking”), so we took our time grilling skewers of seafood, chicken and vegetables. Among the different platters, we chose the Hinatayaki course and Ajijimanyaki course, which feature a satisfying variety of dishes.

The Fukufuku tofu hotpot that came with both courses was like nothing I’ve ever had. It tasted like comfort in the form of soup — soothing, warm and light.

The most important thing to know is that once you hear chirping birds, it means your food is arriving. The orders won’t miss their respective rooms because a stopper in the water will erect at the correct door! You simply have to wait to collect your adorable boat tray of noms 😸

Then, it’ll be time to indulge in some fresh, smokey goodness.

Cost: ~S$50 per pax Opening hours:  9AM – 8:30PM How to get there:  14min walk from Kurimoto-bashi bus stop ( Google Maps )

Keeping the travel magic alive when revisiting Tokyo

Despite having visited thrice, I still feel Tokyo’s heartbeat crisp and alive each time I’m there 🎇 You just gotta know where to look!

For me, part of the appeal is in observing how different cultures interpret city life. Tokyo and Singapore are both busy first-world metropoles in Asia, yet little differences are scattered everywhere — from our ways of life and society’s values to what’s on the shelves in our convenience stores. There’s just something delightful in seeing how we’re the same, but different. The world is small and humanity is inexplicably beautiful.

If you ever find yourself travelling back to somewhere you’ve been before, here are some ways to keep things fresh, with Tokyo as an example! 

1) Consider visiting close-by areas 

Someone teach her how to wear a beanie please…

Take day trips out of Tokyo to discover lesser-known prefectures! We recently visited Karuizawa in Nagano, and it made for a perfect escape from the city. Check out another Tokyo itinerary that covers this: 5D4N Solo Tokyo Itinerary — Ghibli-esque Attractions and an Escape to Karuizawa

Karuizawa had a gentle, toasty countryside allure, especially during Autum n with its mesmerising golden foliage. Unexpectedly, we even tried a new sport there (curling!) for a few hours, which was a lot of slippery fun!

2) Try to recall places you wanted to explore further on your last trips

One reason for the whole “I’ve seen everything!” illusion is that we touch and go places, and then tick it off our checklist. In reality, we often barely scratch the surface.

Whether it be for your Tokyo itinerary or other travel plans, try remembering your favourite attractions on your last visit — was there anywhere you wished you had more time? It’s likely there are untouched areas of previous destinations you haven’t covered!

3) Carve out time for aimless wandering

Instead of sticking to a strict itinerary, take some time to explore. This way, you won’t know exactly what to expect, and may stumble across hidden gems on your own accord!

When we depend on research to travel, we tend to end up comparing our experiences to the “source material”. For some magic, make your own discoveries! ✨

4) Come back during a different season

Spring compared to Winter in Ueno Park, Tokyo. Two fairytale sights but one of a floral fantasy and the other a winter wonderland! Photo credits: Good Luck Trip (left), Maction Planet (right)

If you’ve been here in Autumn, try coming in Summer! Some sights and activities in Tokyo almost completely change with the seasons, so you’ll get to experience a whole new world.

Is there any place in Tokyo you can’t get enough of? Let us know in the comments below!

Like what you see? Follow us on  Facebook ,  Instagram ,  YouTube , and  Telegram  for more travel inspiration!

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Top Non-Touristy Things To Do In Tokyo

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There is no better way to explore the essence of Japanese culture by choosing to go off-the-grid way. By skipping the typical and mainstream "must-visit," or "must-try" lists and go wandering to the not-so-common places, where you will find another side of Tokyo. Check out these sites, recommended from our friends at Trip101.

9.) Spend an afternoon at Hanayashiki

View this post on Instagram このビックリハウスは昭和50年頃。 ピエロの顔みたいです(・∀・) #ビックリハウス #最古 #花やしき #浅草花やしき #hanayashiki #遊園地 #思い出 #アトラクション #近場 #japantrip #ilovejapan #cooljapan #療癒 #過去の写真 #昭和 A post shared by 浅草花やしき (@hanayashiki1853) on May 12, 2018 at 8:23pm PDT

Skip the mainstream Japanese amusement parks and head to the oldest park- Hanayashiki, where you will find some amazing rides, a traditional flower park with a sublime pond, a mini-zoo, and sometimes cosplay events. Experiencing the culture with fun and getting acquainted with the local history are what you are likely to look forward while coming over here. The amusement park is located five minutes away from Asakusa Station.

8.) Explore Piss Alley

View this post on Instagram Lost in Translation 🇯🇵 (shot at Tokyo’s instagram alley 😂) A post shared by Elaine Li 🎈 | Sydney - HK 🇭🇰🇦🇺 (@lielaine) on Jan 28, 2018 at 4:56am PST

Stroll along the quirky and boisterous Piss Alley, also known as Omoide Yokocho ((Memory Lane), where you will find great booze and barbecue options. Located outside the west gate of Shinjuku Station, which is one of the main railway stations in the area, the Piss Alley owned its name back to the World World II period. People were relieving themselves at the nearby train tracks as there was a lack of toilet facilities. Today, the area has flourished into a lively hub where visitors will find numerous eating choices. One of the main dishes you should not skip is definitely the ‘ Yakitori ’ which consists of grilled chicken pieces on a skewer. Vegetarians might be disappointed due to the very limited food option.

7.) Visit the giant Buddha statue

View this post on Instagram 美術館に行く前に #tokyodaibutsu #jorenjitemple #BuddhistTemple #itabashiku A post shared by まるこ (@maruchan210otchan) on Jan 7, 2018 at 10:48pm PST

Sense the serene atmosphere of the sacred Jorenji Temple predominantly known as the Tokyo Daibutsu. The Zen setting is idyllic for those who admire the Buddhist philosophy or are just curious travelers who wish to enjoy the tranquil and rejuvenating setting of the temple. Contemplate the beauty of the bronze Buddha which is the third largest Daibutsu (giant Buddha) in the country. Lies at the Akatsuka Botanical Garden, you might also visit the Itabashi Art Museum and Akatsuka Joshi Park which are in close proximity.

6.) Visit a real film location

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Wondering how does the real Japanese film setting look like? Then consider visiting some of these lovely locations that have been used as film locations. Zojoji Temple tucked behind the soaring Tokyo Tower is one such example. The temple was featured in the Marvel movie ‘The Wolverine’, where ‘Mr. Yashida’ was buried. It’s definitely low on tourists’ radar and shouldn’t be too crowded. As a bonus, the location also gives you an amazing glimpse of the Tokyo Tower.

5.) Bless your electronics at the Kanda Myojin Shrine

View this post on Instagram 最近、大手町や神田、秋葉原での仕事が増えているので神田明神にお礼参り。 #神田明神#神田神社#神社#shrine #kandamyojin #kandamyojinshrine #外神田 #神田#kanda#千代田区#chiyoda #tokyo #japan #江戸総鎮守 #総鎮守#kandashrine #下町#門 A post shared by Atsushi Takano (@takanopr) on Jun 19, 2018 at 4:09am PDT

If you want to spare your life from hackers and computer viruses, especially to IT entrepreneurs or gadget lovers out there, then you must pay your tribute to the sacred Kanda Myojin Shrine or the Anime Shrine. Get your IT talisman and feel protected like a warrior! Located just a walking distance from Akihabara-a popular electronic shopping hub, the historical Anime Shrine is a much-revered site among tech geeks who come to bless their electronic devices. Additionally, you can pray for prosperity, success, and good luck in your life. Here, you will find a range of beautiful and daunting Japanese pantheon. To see the cultural and religious side of the Japanese culture do not miss to attend the Kanda Matsuri , one of the greatest festivals which is celebrated with much pomp at the shrine. Check out the rest of this exciting list with the full article from our friends at Trip101!

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16 Unique Places in Japan That Are Not Widely Known But Are Absolutely Mesmerizing

Japan is replete with enthralling nature and culture, so it is no wonder that its iconic landmarks and attractions draw visitors from all over. However, if crowds are not your thing or you are looking to experience a more unexplored side of Japan, fret not. There are many fabulous spots that are lesser-known and also offer a rewarding time with their spellbinding beauty and historic value. Read on to learn more about 16 off-the-beaten-path places that offer all different kinds of sights!

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1. Noboribetsu Onsen (Hokkaido)

Soaking in an onsen (hot spring) is one of the best ways to experience Japan, as it is a centuries-old custom with deep roots all throughout the country. The northernmost prefecture of Hokkaido is no exception, and to experience piping hot waters that yield a once-in-a-lifetime experience, head over to Noboribetsu Onsen, which is derived from the Ainu word “Nupurupetsu” (dark, cloudy river). Stand transfixed at Noboribetsu Onsen as it furiously spews 10,000 tons of muddy water daily from the nearby Jigokudani Valley, an old crater created by a volcanic eruption around 10,000 years ago. You can thus rest assured that these hot spring waters are freshly delivered to you from Mother Nature!

You can immerse yourself in these muddy waters joyfully, as they are comprised of nine types of water, including salt/saline springs, sulphuric springs, and radium springs! Here, you can treat your skin to rejuvenating detoxification and emerge from the onsen waters, feeling totally cleansed. To complete your trip, you may want to sign up for a night cruise and witness Jigokudani be illuminated and transformed into an eye-catching dreamscape at night.

2. Risshakuji Temple (Yamagata)

Yearning for a place that will offer you an eclectic mix of spiritual solace along with physical activity? Situated in the sky-piercing mountains northeast of Yamagata City, Risshakuji Temple encourages you to have a good workout since you need to climb up 1,015 stone steps from the mountain entrance in order to reach it. You can feel the immense awe building inside of you as you make your way up to the secluded temple, and when you reach your destination you can savor a bird’s eye view of the surrounding majestic mountains. Take in a deep breath, pray to the gods at the temple, and feel a sense of bliss that can only come from being so close to the heavens above.

Aside from its novel location, Risshakuji Temple's claim to fame is a poem crafted by Japan's most famous haiku poet, Basho upon visiting this temple. Apparently, Basho stopped over at Risshakuji temple in the late 1600s and composed the haiku, struck by the poignant silence of the area. If Risshakuji struck even Basho’s fancy and ignited his imagination, there is no arguing that it must possess ethereal vibes. Be sure to visit there to recharge yourself both mentally and spiritually!

3. Frost-Covered Trees of Zao (Yamagata)

Winter enthusiasts will feel right at home in the region of Zao, which is a volcanic mountain range that borders Miyagi and Yamagata. When you visit Zao from mid-January to late February, you will be able to observe an extraordinary phenomenon that feels like a setting in a fantasy novel – fir trees heavily covered with snow for as far as your eyes can see! The snow on these trees is naturally curated by the northwest Siberian wind, thus acting as a stunning cloak.

To obtain a panoramic view of this awesome visual feast, it would be best to take the Zao Ropeway which will transport you to Zao-Sancho Station. Once there, savor the sight of these snow-covered trees standing tall and proud for miles and miles. This spectacle looks so unreal that they are known as the "Zao Snow Monsters." After you get your fill of these monsters, you can engage in winter sports like snowboarding and skiing. Skiing in and out of these monsters will certainly make you feel like a character in an adventure film.

4. Ashikaga Flower Park (Tochigi)

Although offering stunning sights of seasonal flowers all throughout the year, Ashikaga Flower Park in Tochigi Prefecture is famous for its hanging wisteria, creating a mystical sight as you walk among the delicately hanging blossoms while breathing in the sweet scent wafting through the air. Its appeal is not difficult to grasp – in fact, CNN thinks that this flower park is worthy of acclaim and nominated it as one of the world’s top ten dream destinations in 2014.

Come April or May, be sure to pay the park a visit and let your spirits soar as you take in the majestic sight of 350 wisteria trees in bloom. A spectacular riot of differently colored wisteria awaits you, including blue, pink, white, violet, and yellow. Also not to be missed is a hundred-year-old wisteria tree that is so huge that its thick branches have to be supported to create a breathtaking umbrella of blue wisteria flowers. 

5. Mount Kano (Chiba)

For travelers who wish to make Tokyo the focal point of their trip but spend some quality time with nature as well, Mount Kano will be the answer to your prayers. Mount Kano is Chiba Prefecture’s second-highest mountain at 379 meters high and provides breathtaking views of rural Chiba. Although located in close proximity to Tokyo, it allows visitors to envelop themselves in bountiful nature, offering a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

One memorable place you should include in your itinerary is the Kanozan Kujukutani Outlook Park. Overlooking the nearby Kujukutani Valley, this deck offers you first row seats to admire the “unkai'' (sea of clouds) that usually appears in the mornings from late autumn to early spring. You will surely be arrested by the thick, mesmerizing clouds of mist that float over Kujukutani Valley and give rise to this ethereal sight.

6. Sado Island (Niigata)

If you’re a hiking enthusiast, you may gravitate towards the idea of trekking at Sado Island, an island that is chock full of natural attractions. Situated 45 kilometers off the coast of Niigata, it allows you to immerse yourself in verdant forests and crystal-blue seas. Be sure to check out Ishina Natural Cedar Forest, as it gives you the chance to observe various unique birds and flowers. This walkway is also home to gigantic, ancient cedar trees, some of which are hundreds of years old and have been twisted and bent by the elements, lending an otherworldly and mystical touch to the surroundings.

Sado Island offers a microcosm of Japanese history, which will amaze history and culture buffs. For example, the "tarai bune" are a type of boat made from repurposed wash bins and has become a symbol of Sado Island. Visitors can even enjoy rides in these tiny boats, weaving through the waves of the Sea of Japan. Sado Island was also employed as a gold and silver mining location, and you can explore the remnants of these mines and visualize what life must have been like for these determined miners during the Edo (1603 - 1867) period.

7. Hiyo Koke no Sato Moss Garden (Ishikawa)

Hiyo Koke no Sato Moss Garden consists of a huge, vibrant moss garden that will transport you to a transcendental setting that would not be out of place in a Studio Ghibli movie. These heart-stopping stretches of green moss have been lovingly tended by the village residents for generations, thus ensuring its vitality. In fact, they curate the land such that 48 kinds of moss not only coexist seamlessly, but also juxtapose nicely against each other to create a harmonious scene.

In fact, Hiyo Koke no Sato Moss Garden received so much acclaim that the former Japanese emperor personally planted cedar trees during the 66th National Planted Tree Festival. These towering cedar trees only add to the splendid greenery, so why not visit this place that was visited by the emperor himself and be enveloped by the warm embrace of Mother Nature?

8. Karasawa Cirque (Nagano)

Autumn foliage is a beloved seasonal sight in Japan, with popular spots filling up with crowds during the peak season. However, if you prefer to have a picturesque place away from the crowded tourist spots, Karasawa Cirque in Nagano would be an ideal destination from late September to early October. Avid and athletic trekkers may particularly enjoy the challenge of trekking the 30 kilometers that are required to reach Karasawa Cirque. Located 2,300 meters above sea level, the maple leaves will dazzle your eyes with vivid hues of red, yellow, orange, and green against the rocky backdrop of the Japan Alps.

One thing to note: the trek typically takes about six hours, so many visitors choose to pitch their tents or stay overnight at Karasawa Hyutte or Karasawa Goya, both of which are mountain huts. This allows you more time to soak in the tranquility of Karasawa Cirque, breathing in the fresh mountain air.

9. Hamamatsu Flower Park (Shizuoka)

Hamamatsu Flower Park is a botanical garden that hosts over 3,000 different species of plants, offering sights of splendid colors and beautiful collaborations of flowers. One notable pairing is the cherry blossom trees creating a stunning backdrop for the tulip fields, carpeting the ground with a whimsy of colors.

Spring is not the only time one should visit the park, as its seasonal flowers dye the precincts every shade of the rainbow throughout the year. For those who are looking for a leisurely way to enjoy the sights, you can hop on the Flower Train and listen to the explanations provided by the guides, offering an enjoyable and educational experience.

10. Maruyama Senmaida Rice Terraces (Mie)

The Maruyama Senmaida rice terraces are an agricultural wonderland that demonstrates the ingenuity and hard work of the local farmers as they leverage the local climatic and environmental conditions to grow their rice. These terraces rise 100 meters up the sides of the hills, with about 1,340 rice paddies of all shapes and sides carved into the formidable hills.

The terraces offer different sights throughout the year, filling up with water and reflecting the sky during the spring, turning green with fresh rice crops dancing in the wind during the summer, the gold rice crops seemingly glittering during the autumn, and being covered with snow during the winter.

11. Adachi Museum of Art (Shimane)

The Adachi Museum of Art combines the best of art and nature, two rejuvenating and introspective fields, under one roof. Art aficionados and nature lovers should feel right at home, as this museum enables you to develop a profound appreciation of Japanese-style aesthetics with its collection of artworks, including those by Taikan Yokoyama, one of the great masters of Japanese painting.

Its Japanese garden is also in a league of its own, as it has been selected as the best Japanese garden in Japan for many consecutive years by the Journal of Japanese Gardens. Visitors will certainly understand why, as looking out of the windows from the museum will make you feel that the garden is like a pretty painting that portrays the marvels of nature. Stop by the Adachi Museum of Art to experience how art seamlessly intertwines with nature, bringing about a sense of peace and serenity!

12. Kojima Town (Okayama)

If you are keen on fashion, try visiting Kojima Town in Okayama, which has made a name for itself as the go-to place if you wish to buy jeans that are imbued with a unique sense of Japanese-style aesthetics. In fact, your journey will begin right when you arrive at JR Kojima Station, as you will be welcomed by many pictures of denim jeans imprinted on coin lockers and vending machines.

Hopping on a “Kojima Jeans Bus” and alighting at Kojima Jeans Street will allow you to spend a leisurely afternoon strolling down the streets and marveling at the sights, such as a diverse range of jeans flapping in the wind on the electrical lines above you. There are also galleries that display avant-garde products related to denim jeans, creating an image of the history of denim jeans-making in Kojima.

13. Akiyoshi Cave (Yamaguchi)

Stretching for 10 kilometers about 100 meters under Akiyoshi Plateau in Yamaguchi Prefecture, Akiyoshi Cave enables visitors to take a respite from the stresses of modern life. It is known as one of the largest underground limestone caves in Japan, and will steal your breath away with its impressive stalactites and stalagmites.

And that’s not all – Akiyoshi Cave displays some exclusive formations that are difficult to find elsewhere. A highlight is a rock formation called “Hyakumaizara” (hundred saucers), which will surely stop you in your tracks as you gape in awe at how these “saucers” are stacked so spectacularly on top of each other. This cave is a perfect way to be reminded of the fact that great things take time, as after all, these natural masterpieces were painstakingly sculptured by Mother Nature for a few hundred thousand years!

14. Onomichi City (Hiroshima)

Cat lovers, rejoice! Onomichi City in Hiroshima boasts a huge cat population. In fact, the cat population is such an integral part of the city that the tourism authorities once launched a novel project that enabled visitors to use Google Street View and explore its streets through the lens of a cat. It goes without saying that you will have a whale of a time strolling down the streets and taking in the adorable kittens and cats.

As if in homage to its cat inhabitants, Onomichi City also has a “maneki-neko” (beckoning cat) museum that showcases about 3,000 maneki-neko objects, some of which are valuable imported items and period artifacts. The maneki-neko is an indispensable figurine in Japanese culture, as its raised paws are said to symbolize good luck and prosperity for businesses. Hence, a visit to this museum is not to be missed, as you can gather authentic insights into the prized maneki-neko.

15. Tsujunkyo Bridge (Kumamoto)

Kumamoto is home to not just Kumamoto Castle - one of Japan’s top 3 castles - but also Tsujunkyo Bridge, situated in Yamato City. Tsujunkyo Bridge is comprised of towering stone aqueducts and is truly a sight to behold as water is discharged at high velocity from the central section. Many people head over to Tsujunkyo Bridge from May to November to behold this magnificent “waterfall” in action.

Originally constructed in 1854 to provide water to stimulate the growth of crops, Tsujunkyo Bridge is still able to transport 15,000 cubic meters of water daily. Although these gallons of water are not needed for irrigation nowadays, they are still useful in flushing silt out from the aqueducts so that Tsujunkyo Bridge can be maintained in tip-top condition.

16. Gunkanjima (Nagasaki)

If you wish to explore an abandoned island up close and personal, look no further than Gunkanjima, otherwise known as “Battleship Island.” Located a mere boat ride from Nagasaki Port, Gunkanjima used to house a prosperous mining town. It attracted aspiring miners far and wide, who built so many reinforced-concrete apartments and industrial buildings that Gunkanjima came to resemble the warship “Tosa.”

Unfortunately, all this hive of activity came to a stop when the mine was abandoned in 1974, thus causing the buildings to deteriorate under the natural elements. These buildings eventually became dilapidated, which ironically attracted interest for the eerie and otherworldly vibes they evoked. Films like “Skyfall” have already leveraged Gunkanjima for shooting, so there’s no reason why you shouldn’t visit Gunkanjima to experience the air of mystique for yourself!

Find Your Own Captivating and Unknown Corner of Japan

From onsens to islands to quaint towns and flower parks, Japan has something for everyone, ranging from the intrepid adventurer to the nature lover and the art aficionados. This is exactly the sort of idyll that entrances visitors worldwide, and hopefully you found at least one attraction in this list that makes you want to visit. Do incorporate these lesser-known but equally mesmerizing attractions into your itinerary so that you can develop a nuanced perspective of Japan that most travelers are not privy to!

Title image: BoonritP / Shutterstock.com

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The information in this article is accurate at the time of publication.

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Why Have the Same Holiday as Everyone Else?

19 Unusual, Non-Touristy Things to do in Kyoto

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Kyoto, the city of over 1600 temples, including the beautiful gold-leaf clad Kinkakuji and the giant zen garden that is Ryoan-ji. Wander its tranquil streets soaking in years of …..snore….sorry dropped off for a bit there.

Yes, embarrassed as I am to say it, Kyoto may be a fantastic historical city containing some of Japan’s most incredible sights, but most of the things you’re ‘supposed’ to see in Kyoto, simply don’t float my boat.

As such, when we decided to add Kyoto to the itinerary for our last trip, I decided to dig about a bit and find some more unusual or non-touristy things to do in Kyoto.

I wanted to find fun things to do in Kyoto that didn’t involve temples – and when I did go to a shrine or temple, I wanted there to be something a bit intriguing about it.

That was actually pretty easy – there are a LOT of unusual temples in Kyoto.

In fact, with a bit of delving, I found absolutely heaps of unusual things to do in Kyoto. So many in fact, I didn’t get around to all of them in the time I had.

So, if you’re like me and the normal list of things to do in Kyoto doesn’t get you excited about visiting this beautiful city, here’s my guide to 18 other more unusual things to eat, see or do in Kyoto – it could change your view of the city and its temples forever.

• Fun and & Unusual Things to Do in Kyoto

1. Find Your Favourite Stone Person at Otagi Nenbutsu-Ji

2. be wowed by the tiny cocoon people, 3. eat fire ramen, 4. go hunt monsters, 5. have a cloud coffee, 6. bless your relationship in the magic stone, 7. go drink with a monk, 8. make a deer bow, 9. soak in the railway onsen, 10. check out the kimono forest, 11. pray for good hair, 12. eat an octopus with an egg in its head, 13. find the pom pom temple, 14. go to the doll restaurant, 15. admire some moss, renting your own kimono, 17. eat food that looks like gemstones, 18. ride the zen garden train, 19. visit the miffy bakery, sharing is caring.

Okay, so, you might be disappointed that with all that preamble above the first thing I’m telling you to visit is a shrine, but honestly, this place is fabulous.

Tucked away in the hills above Arashiyama it’s inhabited by 1200 small weather-worn stone people – known as rakan – every one of which is totally different.

I wasn’t expecting the amount of fun someone has had carving these.

When you see them from a distance you think they all look the same, but close up, not only do you realise they have different faces and shapes conveying their personalities – some of them even have props.

There is one carrying a tiny cat/bear thing, two friends are drinking sake – there’s even one with a tennis racket!

It turned out to be the highlight of our day and my favourite of all the Kyoto shrines and temples I checked out,

Don’t miss it.

The address of Otagi Nenbutsu-ji is Fukatani-Cho, Saga Toriimoto, Ukyi-ku, Kyoto.

It costs 300 yen to get in and is open from 8am to 5pm

We walked there which takes you through a really quaint residential area full of traditional old houses and beautiful gardens.

If you don’t want to walk, you can also get the 62,72,92 and 94 buses – it is quite a way up the hill so that might be a good idea if you’re already worn out.

Mind you, if we hadn’t walked, I wouldn’t have found the next thing on my list of unusual things to do in Kyoto, and that would have been a real shame.

So, there we were wandering up the hill to Otagi Nenbutsu-ji when we went past the most amazing sight.

Attached to a wall by a small shop was an entire Japanese street scene laid out in a glass case with the people parts played by tiny white weeble-like creatures.

It took me a minute before I realised they were made from silk cocoons.

The level of detail on this is amazing.

Not surprisingly, it was created by the owner of Mayumura, a shop that specializes in selling little cocoon creatures.

I don’t normally buy souvenirs but I really wanted one of these – and each tiny figure only costs 200 yen making them a veritable bargain.

Interestingly, when the family that owns the shop first told friends they were going to open in this area, known as Saga Arashiyama, they were told it could never be a success as the area was full of ghosts and no one would ever brave the place to visit them.

Thankfully, now enough people wander past for it to be a success – and the only spooky thing we saw when we were up there was a guy walking his dog in these shoes! How on earth does he balance?

This is the shop you’re looking for – it is marked on google maps.

If you’re not going to Otagi Nenbutsu-ji, there’s also a second shop selling the tiny cocoon creatures on the main street in Arashiyama.

This is owned by the younger brother of the first store – and it’s also known as Mayumura.

To find out more about both shops and the family that own them check out this interview with them .  

I spend months researching the trips I’m going to write about on this blog, months, so, when, about three days after I got home from my 2018 I found out about something seriously cool that I missed out on, the sulk is massive.

This is what happened with Fire Ramen!

After all, If you want a moment that sums up Weird Kyoto perfectly, what better than having your dinner set alight!!!

Obviously, you know what stopped me from getting there for a bit, but finally, on my 2023 trip I managed to get there – and it was everything I hoped!

Yes, I know it’s a fuzzy photo, but, it’s from a video!

Fire ramen is the specialty of a restaurant called Menbaka Fire Ramen, located slightly north of Kyoto Castle.

The idea is simple – you’re served a bowl of light chicken, pork, and soy broth full of green onions, slices of pork, and noodles – and a layer of oil on top.

The chef then sets light to the oil.

This cooks the onions and pork giving everything a seriously smokey taste.

It costs 1350 a bowl and other sets are available – including one for 2260 yen which includes, as the restaurant puts it ‘a cool badge’.

If you do want to go you’ll find it at Menbakaichidai. 757-2, Minamiiseyacho, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto-Shi, Kyoto.

It’s open from 11am-3pm and 5-9pm, closed on Tuesdays and they don’t take reservations. It’s also a super small restaurant so you won’t be allowed to linger. They allow 30 minutes per guest for the fire ‘show’ and the eating!!

Check out our longer post on it here.

Yokai Street is part of Ichijo-Dori, a traditional old shopping street directly west of Kyoto’s Imperial Palace – but what makes it special is the monster statues dotted along it.

The legend of Yokai Street is that many years ago a load of household goods that had been thrown away turned into spirits and rampaged down Ichijo-Dori until they got calmed down by a local priest – now each of the shops has its own little protector in their honour.

I loved Yokai Street – from the little monsters to the quaint traditional shops it was probably the favourite thing I did in Kyoto.

If you want to see more pictures and learn about the monster-themed foods you can buy on the road, have a look at our full post on Yokai Street here.

Yokai Street is about a 20-minute walk from Fire Ramen so it’s easy to combine the two.

Oh if ever there was a drink made for Instagram this is it.

There’s a cloud of candy floss suspended as if by magic over your hot drink of choice – as the steam hits the floss, the sugar melts into the drink as if it’s raining.

Yes, it’s as fabulous as it looks!

Find it at Alpha Food and Drink, 327 Nishidaikokucho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture 604-0063, This is fairly near Kyoto Castle.

2023 Update: Unfortunately, it looks like Alpha Food and Drink has closed down. I’m keeping it on here though in the hope that they’ll remerge once tourism in Japan picks up again.

The job of the paper-clad enkiri or enmusubi stone at Kyoto’s Yasui Kompira Gu temple in Gion is to bind or break relationships – enkiri means to cut while the word enmusubi covers all kinds of connections, ties and relationships – be that with other people or with things or habits.

You buy a piece of paper from the stall by the shrine and write your name on it. Then clutching your bit of paper you climb through the hole in the shrine – just make sure you go the right way round.

If you want to cement a good relationship you need to go through the hole back to front. If you want to break off a bad one, then go the other way.

Thankfully we read this before I sent my friend Kendall the wrong way through the hole and doomed her and her boyfriend!

Personally, I was more worried that my curvier than the average Japanese butt might get stuck in the stone than about my love life so The Boyfriend and I will just have to take our chances!

You’ll find the stone at the Yasui Konpari-Gu Shrine in Gion – it’s open 24 hours but go early evening and you have the place virtually to yourself – this is generally the case if you want to make any popular attraction in Kyoto less touristy.

We met someone else there who had already visited twice during the day but gave up climbing through because there were too many people.

She was very pleased to just find only us there in the early evening.

The salon & bar SAMGHA is run by Takahide Haneda, who also happens to be the head priest at the nearby Kounji Temple.

Not surprisingly, considering the owner’s day job, this place is seriously calming.

It’s dimly lit, you summon Haneda san by ringing a little bell on the table (usually used to summon monks to prayer) and conversation is more, quiet chatting than raucous drinking games.

The bar serves mostly Japanese wines, whiskeys, and beers.

Monastic he may be, but he’s definitely not a charity – this was the most expensive night out I had in my whole trip to Japan – costing about £40 for one glass of wine and some nibbles!

But, hey I got to drink Japanese wine, I ate cheese made from grapes and I went home with a monk’s business card so all was right with the world.

You’ll find salon & Bar SAMGHA at 526 Yamada cho, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto City.

Normal opening hours are from 6pm to midnight

It’s closed on Sunday and on the odd special day.

Find their opening hours on their website. It’s only in Japanese so you’ll need to use google translate.

About a 70-minute easy train ride south from Kyoto is the city of Nara – and, in the park at Nara are rather a lot of deer just wandering about.

To say they are used to people is an understatement. They’ll happily wander up to you looking for a treat of the deer cookies they sell in the park – and, if you bow at them, they bow back.

Cue hours of fun.

It was absolutely hosing it down the day we went to Nara but the bowing deer made the drenching worthwhile!

Watch out though, while they are fairly calm most of the time, they can get a bit aggressive when you are carrying deer cookies, and they do nip.

Things you normally find at railway stations – trains, bookshops, coffee places.

Things you don’t normally find at railways stations – little pools of warm water in which you can soak your feet, yet, tucked away at the end of the platform at Arashiyama station, is exactly that.

Simply go to the ticket office and pay your 200 yen fee to use the spa.

You’ll be given a little bag with a free towel and a ticket that shows you’ve paid.

Then, head down the platform, take off your shoes (giving your feet a little wash before you put them in the spa itself), and relax while you watch the cutesy trains of the Keifuku Electric Railroad go back and forth around you.

It’s completely random, absolutely bonkers and I totally loved it – as did my feet which by this point hated me as I had literally walked 200km in the last 10 days.

Once you’ve finished soaking, pop your shoes back on and you’re handily right by the train that takes you to the famous zen garden temple at Ryoanji, or Kitano Hakubaicho, the nearest station to explore Yokai Street.

There’s also another footbath by the Togetsu-kyo Bridge.

While you sit and soak your feet at Arashiyama station, you’ll notice the outside of the station is surrounded by plastic tubes about 6ft high filled with coloured fabric.

This is the Kimono Forest an art installation by artist Yasumichi Morita.

There are over 600 pillars in all and 32 different fabrics on display, and if you’re in Arashiyama at night, the tubes light up

I actually preferred the Kimono Forest to the real Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and which, in my opinion, does not live up to the Instagram hype around it!

Yes, it’s beautiful, but it’s very small and I felt a bit let down when I actually got there.

I did at least manage to see it ‘deserted’ – we got there at about 8am and there were only about 10 other people there – when we came past again at 11 am it was absolutely heaving.

Again, I go back to my number one Kyoto rule – go early!

I did, however, get a chance to play with the watercolor setting on my phone (see first pic above). Fun things to do in Kyoto number 19 – fiddle about with your camera!

At the end of the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, you’ll find a small shrine called Makami Jinja.

It doesn’t look much, but if need any help in the hair department this is the prayer place for you.

Whether you’re starting a hairdressing business, need some guidance on a do, or trying to stop the hands of time and prevent balding the gods here will listen.

You can either write your wishes on an ema – one of the small wooden plaques you find at any shrine or temple – or, if the priest is around, they will actually trim off a piece of your hair as an offering to the gods – and in return, the deities will help you out with your every follicular wish.

I loved all the offbeat Kyoto shrines I found, there really is a place to pray for everything.

Okay, so so visiting Nishiki Market is a touristy thing to do in Kyoto, but that’s why this post is called Unusual and Non-Touristy Things to do in Kyoto. I like to keep my options open – and this one is definitely an unusual, offbeat Kyoto thing to do.

You’ll find these in the super busy – but absolutely enthralling – Nishiki Market.

I love markets so, Nishiki was my personal Kyoto must-see and it also turned out to be the perfect thing to do on a rainy day in Kyoto as it’s under cover.

The little octopi are served on sticks – and if eating an entire tiny octopus wasn’t odd enough, they come with a tiny quail egg stuffed into their head.

That was the worst bit for me as I intensely dislike boiled eggs!

The octopus itself isn’t actually that bad. It’s got a similar texture to squid and they are coated with some kind of sticky sweet glaze which gives the flavour a lift.

There are heaps of places in Nishiki that serve the little critters –  and some of them will give you a sticker if you manage to eat one!

Probably the busiest and most touristy parts of Kyoto are the winding streets around the Higashiyama district.

You definitely won’t be alone up here – every road is thronged by people shopping, wandering about in kimono, temple hopping, and eating some of the super cute foods (like gold leaf ice cream) you can find nearby.

I wasn’t expecting to be surprised by much up here – but then we wandered into Yasaka Koshindo – and found an entire temple decorated with coloured balls!

Mind blown.

Apparently, if you write your wishes on one of the coloured balls and then hang them up – one of the three monkeys that guard the temple will grant your wish.

It’s a stunning place to see, but as with all Kyoto temples, if you want to get the place to yourself go as early in the day as you possibly can – it opens at 9am.

So you’ve always wanted to eat an omelette while being stared at by large plastic dolls – my friend, I have just made your day as I know exactly where you need to go!

Issen Yoshoku is a restaurant that serves only one dish. A kind of omelette/pancakey thing made from eggs, spring onions, dried shrimp, beef, and a few other bits and bobs (there’s a sign in the restaurant explaining all the details.

But if its singular menu wasn’t enough to set it apart from everywhere else, some of the tables inside the restaurant come with their own life-size kimono-clad dolls to keep you company.

It’s weird Kyoto at its best, a completely mad place – but actually, a welcome relief to see as it’s tucked between the super pricey and a bit intimidating Gion district and the cheap, but a bit sleazy area on the other.

I admit, when I read about this place I thought it was going to be on the sleazy side – I was expecting a place full of sad lonely old men that would go silent as we entered, so I was a bit surprised to find it wide open, brightly lit and right on the main street.

Check it out if you need a fairly cheap protein fix – and a heap of intriguing photographs.

You’ll find it at 238 Giommachi Kitagawa, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture 605-0073, Japan.

Officially the opening hours are supposed to be 11-3.00 weekdays and only open at night at weekends, but we went past on a weekday evening and it was open, so maybe check locally if you want to go in the evening.

Just when you thought I’d finished with the temples, there’s another one on my list – Giou ji, the moss temple

Yes, as if there weren’t already a lot of things in Kyoto temples covered in moss – this one is actually dedicated to the green fluffy stuff.

In fact, there’s a whole lawn full of it  – not to mention the fact that it’s springing up on stones, roofs and pretty much anywhere else it can grab a hold with its little frilly feet.

Okay, if you’re not into moss, you might want to skip this one, but I quite like it!

However, if you’re REALLY into moss – there are actually about six more moss temples in Kyoto including one called Saihoji which is a Unesco-protected site and requires a reservation to visit.

Famous as the setting of a renowned Japanese novel, the booking system was brought in as too many people were trying to visit and the moss was getting damaged.

Ideally, book at least two months in advance of your trip and prepare to be a bit flexible as they only have set sessions each day.  

It explains how you can book here – not, it’s not done online, you have to actually write to them.

I t costs 3000 yen to visit.

16. Head to Maiko Antiques

Located opposite what’s known as the boar temple (one of a couple of temples in Kyoto dedicated to helping people with sore legs!), this second-hand shop is worth a quick wander.

It’s full of quirky finds – and they have a collection of secondhand kimono and yukata for sale outside.

The official address is 157 Komatsucho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0811, Japan

If you’d prefer just to rent a kimono for the day, that’s doable as well – as you can see by the heaps of pics of people wearing them, it’s super common in Kyoto (okay, so I know that kind of goes against non-touristy things to do, but, it’s pretty!).

There are lots of kimono shops you can hire from, but, we suggest you pick one close to the Hagashiyama or Gion districts as you’ll find some pretty backgrounds for pictures here.

This one fits the bill and offers all-day rental for a very reasonable price.

If you don’t trust your photography skills to capture the moment properly, there are also a number of kimono rentals that will add a professional photo shoot to the proceedings.

Take a look at one option for this , which offers shoots in the famous bamboo forest or around the Hagashiyama district here – and with packages for up to seven people you could make a family shoot of it. The price doesn’t include kimono rental so make sure you book that first to get your dates sorted.

If you want to know more about what to expect on your day out, then this guide to renting kimono in Kyoto gives you more advice.

Science nerds, heads up.

Every dish on the offbeat Kyoto cafe Usaginonedoko’s menu is designed to look like a crystal or other piece of rock.

Their most famous dish is their black Meteorite Curry – the prettiest is possible the Amythest Pannacotta (only available as part of a meal set)

it’s called  Usaginonedoko and the official address is  ウサギノネドコ Kyoto-fu, Kyoto-shi, Nakagyo-ku, Nishinokyo Minami Haramachi 37.

It’s closed on a Thursday (guess which was the day I was actually nearby) – ah, well at least its something else to add to my next visit to Kyoto!

Known as Kyo Train Garakua, this train that runs between Kyoto and Osaka at weekends is designed for you to experience the best Kyoto has to offer – while on the move!

It has carriages themed with cherry blossoms and maple leaves and, two of the carriages even contain zen gardens.

The train starts at Kyoto’s Karawamachi Station and takes 47 minutes to travel to Osaka – but, if you don’t want to go that far, you can use it to connect to the train to Arashiyama.

However, if you do this it doesn’t give you that long to explore the train while it’s moving, so, make sure you get to the platform 20 minutes before the departure time. You’ll then be able to wander up and down the train before it leaves.

We’ve written a more detailed post on using the Kyo Train Garaku on our Japan blog Japlanease. If you want more details, then, click the link above to head over there to check things out.

If you’re a fan of all things Miffy, you’re definitely going to want to stop off at the Arashiyama Miffy Sakura Kitchen on the main street in Arashiyama.

The shop next door sells all sorts of Miffy Merchandise – and you can fuel up for your spending spree with a Miffy bun!

Look how cute it is. The bakery does get quite long queues so get there early.

It’s also close to the Instagram famous cloud cake and coffee shop. I wish I had pictures for this but they REALLY sell out early!

A Few Extra Things to See

There were a few other unusual things to do in Kyoto that we didn’t manage to check out.

Kiyomizudera has a pitch-black room that aims to take you back to the womb, and another has a ceiling covered in bloody footprints, but with the time we had (and blisters literally on every toe by this point) we couldn’t quite do everything.

Hopefully, even without these though, I’ve given you enough ideas to change your image of Kyoto as a city full of wall-to-wall serious temples.

It really is a gorgeous place – with a totally different feel from Tokyo.

Talking of which, if you liked this post – and are also going to Tokyo, we have one on there to – here’s where to find a (long) list of weird, cute or unique things to do in Tokyo.

Oh – and we also now have a separate site just for Japan travel.

It’s called Japlanease and it’s aimed at making traveling to Japan a little bit easier so you’ll find heaps of great advice on traveling to Japan. Here’s where to find it. 

Who Writes Differentville?

My name is Helen Foster and I’m a journalist and author living in Sydney.

My travel articles have been published in titles including The Australian, Body & Soul at the Sunday Telegraph, RAC Horizons, Jetstar magazine and more.

I like the weird, the wonderful and anything that makes me jump and down with glee like I’m about three. That’s what you’ll find here.

If you liked this post, why not share it on Pinterest so other people can find a heap of non-touristy things to do in Kyoto too.

12 thoughts on “19 Unusual, Non-Touristy Things to do in Kyoto”

What an awesome post….truly! So useful for my upcoming trip. I’ll try to get to fire ramen and I’ll send you a pic…. LOL

Thanks so much for the post! There were some really interesting things here. 🙂

Thanks. Was fun finding them all. Need to go back and do more. There’s a few things that aren’t in there yet.

This is SUCH an amazing post!!!! Thank you thank you thank you!

Glad you liked it and thanks so much for commenting.

Great post. Thanks so much.

Helen, Thank you so much for this post. I am right now in Kyoto and was just wanting to read something that would make me dump my bed and start exploring. And here I am running to explore the different side of Tokyo. Thanks a ton!

Hahaha. That makes my day. Sorry about the lack of rest. What did you visit?

Thank you for the awesome post! We are already adding everything you’ve mentioned to our “to do list”.

Loved this post!!

FYI, The Ukiyoe shop closed at the start of the pandemic.

Thank you for letting me know that. I’ve been checking things regularly but that is not on the map so I haven’t been able to see it. I’ve just booked my next trip so I can do a proper update ASAP.

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20 Non-Touristy Things to do in Osaka, Japan | Solo Female Travel

• January 14, 2021
• Japan , self-alluring , solo , travel , wanderer , wanderlust

Osaka is vibrant but laidback, modern yet steeped in history. Known as the Kitchen of Japan and rightly so, food reigns supreme in Osaka. Japan’s second-largest city, Osaka, is filled with so many things to see, and due to that, it feels like a maze.  

But when I was first planning my trip to Japan, many travel-enthusiast friends told me to make Osaka my base and make day travels to nearby places while squishing in some attractions of  Osaka . Thank god, I didn’t listen to them because Osaka has so much to offer. While watching  sakura at the Osaka castle  is an ethereal experience, there is much more to enjoy here.

During my trip here, I realised that the best way to enjoy Osaka was to get off the beaten path. So, if you want to enjoy Osaka like me, look no further as I have listed 20 non-touristy things to do in Osaka for you below.

1. Bunraku theatre

The best way to understand the culture of a country you are visiting is by immersing yourself in an experience. And what better way to do that than being a part of an experience that originated in the city’s golden age. Watching a puppet show at the Bunraku theatre should be on your list of things to experience in Osaka.

Bunraku is a classical Japanese puppet theatre, and while puppet shows are not rare to find around the world, very few have perfected it. In Bunraku, the story is communicated through rhythmic chantings and music, so you don’t have to know the language to appreciate the art. I got to know that this form of puppet theatre is called ningyo joruri in Japanese, which, when broken down, means the joruri is telling a story with traditional Japanese string instruments using a ningyo or a puppet.

The puppeteer is dressed in all black so that your attention is not diverted from the vibrantly dressed big puppets made of wood. It is the perfect way to start your Osaka experience. To get an insight into Osaka on your first solo travel here, read my blog on the  Ultimate Osaka travel guide .  

2. Coffee with the reptiles

Japan has no shortage of unusual cafes or even animal cafes for that matter. But while most of the cafes have adorable creatures adorning them, Reptile Cafe Rock Star is quite different.

As the name suggests, once you enter, you see the reptiles, arachnids, centipedes, bugs, and so on, so a disclaimer before you read any further, this place is not for the faint-hearted. I’m not too fond of anything that moves on its belly! It gives me the creeps, but since we have to overcome our fears in life, I decided this was that moment for me.

I love that the people who wait on you ease you out before you get to meet the inhabitants. If you are brave, you can ask the restaurant staff’s permission to hold the reptiles, but that wasn’t for me. I was happy to wave at them from the other side of the glass. Read more about weird cafes and more in my blog:  20 non-touristy things to do in Tokyo .

3. Owl forest

If reptiles are not your thing, you can always head out for the Owl Cafe experience. I have always been a fan of owls since I read the Harry Potter series as a kid, and if you are like me, then the Owl cafe in Osaka is a must-visit spot. You can enjoy watching owls on display, but customers here are encouraged to interact with them. Don’t worry. There are guidelines that you get to know, and you just follow them. For example, you can only pet them gently on their heads or back with the back of your hand. 

But it’s not like you can spend the entire day with owls here. Each session lasts for about an hour before the next batch of visitors appears. So, make the most of the time you spend with these cuties and click plenty of pictures. 

4. Namba Parks

Though called Namba Parks, it is a far cry from a green spot where you take a stroll. Osaka is well known for its food, and it is also home to some of the best places to shop in Japan, and Namba Parks is just that. 

Located in the Minami district of Osaka, this is a huge multi-level shopping mall, and it is worth a look even if you don’t end up buying anything. A difficult task, I assure you. But you might be repelled because who wants to visit a shopping mall while on vacation. Well, Namba Parks is built to resemble a natural canyon with trees, flowers everywhere, giving you a feel of nature while you browse through the shops. 

5. Nakazakicho

If you want to enjoy a charming, quaint, and yet historic slice of bohemia amidst bustling Osaka, Nakazakicho should be on your list of things to visit in Osaka. Take a leisurely walk down the meandering roads and see the ramshackle wooden building, sit and sip a cup of coffee or a matcha tea here and you feel you are in a different era altogether. The air here exudes romance and colour, and as a solo female traveller, it will bring you a sense of calm.

Visit the vintage stores and quirky boutiques here and pick up something hand-made to carry back home. 

6. Hozenji Yokocho alley

It is no secret that Osaka is a food haven, and if you are a foodie, you must visit the Hozenji Yokocho Alley, which is just a small alleyway behind the Hozenji temple in Osaka. The wide stone cobbled street gives you an old Osaka feel of the bygone days. The alley is dotted with cafes and restaurants that serve authentic Japanese food. 

Though the place is opened both day and night, I think it looks even more spectacular in the evening with the alleyway is lit up by lamps and that soft lights give off a vintage vibe. I was also told that famous people frequent this alleyway, so unlike me, you might spot someone if you are aware of Japanese stars.

Also, check out the moss-covered Fudomyo Buddhist statue, which is extremely famous here. 

7. Meoto Zenzai

Just beside the Hozenji temple, you will come across a sweet shop that is steeped in history called: Hozenji Meoto Zenzai. Originally a zenzai (kind of a red bean soup) shop, the shop is over 130 years old and was initially called Okuku. Try visiting early because there are only three tables in the shop and I had to wait a while before I could get seated. 

The most famous dish here is definitely the Meoto Zenzai, two servings of red bean soup with rice cakes. I had heard about the dessert but little did I know that one serving of the dish came in two separate bowls. I got to know the story behind it when I asked an English-speaking gentleman I was sharing the table with. Apparently, meoto means a married couple, and it is considered good luck if you consume this as a couple. Well, as a female solo traveller, you can enjoy the dish with the person you should love the most- yourself. Also, please read my blog on the  top 13 things to do alone in Japan .

8. Instant noodles Museum

As a solo female traveller, haven’t we all had instances where we have turned to the mighty ramen noodles when we have been travelling. So, it’s only perfect that we get to pay our tribute to our one true saviour: Momofuku Ando.

A few blocks away from Ikeda station, you learn about how the instant noodles came into being, and then you can make your noodles, choose your ingredients, and even design your cup. Visiting this museum should be on your list of things to do in Osaka. 

Also, check out my blog on  what to pack before your first solo trip to Japan . 

9. Obachaaan

You know young trendy boy bands and girl groups around the world. But you don’t know anything about bands if you haven’t heard and seen Obachaaan in Osaka. 

The city is quite well known for its comedy, and Obachaaan perfectly blends the two and call themselves comic pop singers. There are about 47 of them aged mostly over 60! Yes, you read that right. Obachan in Japanese is an endearing term for an aunt, and it aptly fits these loud and brightly clothed women who sing popular K-pop songs and, wait for it, hands out candies. They do shows for free the last Sunday of every month in the basement of Tsutenkaku Tower, and no matter what, you have to try out this experience on your first solo trip to Osaka. 

10. Geeking out over Anime

If you happen to love Anime, you should plan your visit around March when Denden Town’s streets in Nipponbashi are closed for the anime festival in Osaka. While not as grand as Tokyo’s Akihabara, you can enjoy the experience better at Nipponbashi because it is less crowded. 

If you are here during the festival, you will find the street alive with music and people dressed as their favourite characters. You can also shop for a costume here, and you are welcome to join the participants and click pictures with them.

11.  Red bridge and cat shrine at Sumiyoshi Taisha

The Sumiyoshi Shrine is a very well-known tourist attraction for anyone visiting Osaka. One of the most famous and oldest Buddhist shrines in the country, Sumiyoshi is architecturally breathtaking too. 

But what I found to be even better than the shrine itself is the bright red bridge across a small stream of water called Sorihashi bridge. The perfect reflection that the bridge casts over the water is a perfect Instagram moment that you can capture.

After you are done strolling around the bridge, keep exploring the shrine grounds, and you will find a Cat shrine. Yes, a shrine dedicated to cats, which is considered extremely lucky in Japanese folklore. You can also collect cat figurines from here. 

12. Cat and dog cafes

While we are on the subject of adorable furry creatures, the cat and dog cafes in Osaka should be on your list of must-visit spots in the city.

The Ragdoll cat cafe is one of the many cat cafes you find all over Japan, but that does not make them any less adorable. The prices here depend on how long you want to stay at the cafe. So, you pay by the hour, and it includes playing with the cats, a drink of your choice, and a treat for the cat. The cats are peaceful, and you can spend hours just lazing around and cuddling them. Now, isn’t that just purrrrfect?

Continuing your time with furry creatures, the Dog Tail cafe should be next on your list of places to visit while on your trip to Osaka. While cats have to be pampered, the dogs here will run at you all at once when you enter the cafe. You will be asked to sit at an area where you can sip your beverage and play with the plentiful dogs at the cafe. Play fetch, or give them belly rubs and see them licking your face in gratitude. It’s such a soothing and calming experience.

13. History lesson at the Human Rights Museum

They say to understand the present, take a step back in the past. And the Osaka Human Rights Museum, or Liberty Osaka as it was formerly called, is the place. 

The museum was established in 1985, explores social issues, and helps you understand Japan’s complex structure. You can learn about the minority groups in Japan and the discrimination and atrocities that they have had to face. A trip to this place should be on your itinerary because it will help you understand the beautiful country even better.

14. Become a Japanese samurai

Would your trip to Osaka even be complete without trying your hand at being a samurai? I think not. 

Go for a full experience as a Japanese samurai where you can dress up as a samurai, and there are trainers who give you a lesson in wielding a sword like a samurai and so on. There are lessons available in English, so no need to fret. Learn the proper stance, how to retrieve the sword, and you can also be a part of a fight sequence complete with sound effects!

Don’t worry. Nothing is dangerous because plenty of safety measures are taken, and you will go back with some unique memories. To have an  authentic samurai  experience go all out. 

15. Food tour at Dotonbori

No matter what you see in Osaka, nothing absolutely compares to the eating in this city. The local fare provides so much variety that it is a treat for your tongue. There are many food tours in Osaka, but I would suggest taking a tour of the delicacies in Osaka’s busiest area: Dotonbori, has to offer. 

While there are many Michelin-star restaurants in the city, it is the street food that steals the show in Dotonbori. Try food like the kushikatsu, which is technically anything fried served on a stick, fried octopus balls, takoyaki, and Osaka’s speciality, the okonomiyaki. Read more about  must-try food to try on your solo trip to Japan . 

16. Make your own okonomiyaki

This giant savoury pancake is an Osaka classic and fills your appetite and heart. But why not take it a step further and have a chance at whipping up your okonomiyaki with whatever toppings your heart desires?

At Hatsuse restaurant in Dotonbori, you can do that. All you need is to purchase a package, and the pan is yours. Don’t expect yours to be anywhere close to what the professionals make, but it is undoubtedly one of the best experiences you will have in Osaka. 

17. Higher heels, higher discount

While travelling to Japan, it is always advised to carry comfortable shoes as exploring places here requires walking. But if you happen to carry a pair of heels on your solo travel to Japan, you might be just in luck.

The MyPlace bar at Hilton in Osaka gives you a discount on some menu items and drink on Thursdays, depending on how tall your heels are! The minimum heel requirement is 2 inches, which gets you a 10% discount, and the rate of discount increases with the increasing height of your heels. My advice: Don’t go overboard. You will have to drag your drunk self back to your hotel on your own.

18. Learn to cook sushi at a local home

As a foodie, I always look forward to taking food tours and food classes in most cities I travel as a solo female traveller, and when you are in food heaven, this is an absolute must.

Washoku home cooking Machiko is a form of home cooking for visitors in Japan, giving you an authentic experience. The Machiko greets you at the door in a kimono and then takes you to the kitchen. Remember to take off your shoes as it is frowned upon. I signed up for a sushi-making class, but there are other options available too. Once I learned how to roll sushi, the Machiko proceeded to teach me how to plate it beautifully, and then we were set for a giant feast in a traditional Japanese way.

19. Shop till you drop at Tenjinbashi-Suji

One of the first shopping streets in Osaka, Tenjinbashi-Suji is the longest street in Japan dotted with shops. Spanning almost 2.6 kilometers, it takes nearly 40 minutes to cover it even if you walk straight without stopping. Yes, I checked it lol. 

A far cry from the shops in the mall, here you can buy local fare from little boutiques and small shops. Just walking amidst the crowd here is an experience you must look forward to while visiting Osaka.

20. A day at Spa world

As a female solo traveller, we often find ourselves looking for some respite between a packed itinerary. So take a breather and recharge your batteries before travelling more by spending a day at the Spa world in Osaka.

A seven-storey building just south of Shinsekai, Spa world allows you to pamper yourself with baths and massages from all over the world. You will be spoilt for choice here, but I had heard from a friend who had taken the services earlier that a milk and honey bath in the Blue Grotto room is one you should not miss. And truly indeed, it leaves your skin soft, and it clears all the stress etched in your minds. The experience was befitting a queen, and so this should definitely be on your list.

Osaka has a sheer abundance of places to visit, and the best thing about this city is that it has something for everyone. Osaka is like the coolest cousin of Tokyo, and here, you cannot help but imbibe that laid-back trait of the people of this city. Osakans love to enjoy their life, and here you will be forced to do so too. Also, expect to be a few pounds heavier after you visit Osaka because you won’t be able to restrict yourself to the plethora of options served. Eat, drink, and enjoy the slice of beauty of Japan that is Osaka!

An introverted blogger who is looking to make unforgettable solo travel memories with one short life.

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Non-Touristy Things to Do in Tokyo

There is a variety of interesting non-touristy things to do in Tokyo, but be prepared to have some courage before you try them out! Tokyo becomes truly an intriguing place to visit when you step away from the more popular spots. If you are willing to embrace modern Japanese culture and step outside of your comfort zone, you’re likely to have a blast enjoying the city’s lesser-known activities.

Parasite Museum 

As one of the most bizarre things to do in Tokyo, this museum shouldn’t be visited by those with Helminthophobia (fear of worms) or Vermiphobia (parasitic worms). The Parasite Museum is located in the center of the city and displays a huge collection of parasite and worm species found in both animals and humans. If you dare, it’s free to enter. The collection includes a a human scrotum and the world’s longest tapeworm at 28 feet long. With more than 300 ranges of preserved specimens, it is a unique and spine-chilling experience.

Want to visit some more of Japan’s museums? Check out my recommendations here !

Visit Shimokitazawa

Shimokitazawa is a famous quarter in Tokyo with lanes of trendy, boho-chic clothing, accessories and décor. It is a fashionista’s paradise featuring recycled and unique clothing items. There is also wide variety of stores with traditional and Western-style clothing, art galleries, cafes, restaurants and theaters. No matter what your price range, you’re likely to find the perfect souvenir here. 

Jimbocho Book Town

Jimbocho Book Town is a heaven for readers. It’s the perfect spot to pick up a read for the flight home, and you can find tomes of Japanese traditional art, Western favorites, and prints of antique maps. Get off at the A7 exit from the Jimbocho station and head toward the smell of old books. You can find items for cheap, or choose to invest in a first edition of your favorite book.

Take a helicopter ride

Want to see Tokyo from above? You can book a helicopter to ride over the city offering a view of the city at night. While it can be a bit expensive for those on a budget, there are many websites that offer helicopter rides–it’s worth it to do your research in advance so you can pick a company that works within your price range. Talk about getting a chance for getting amazing Instagram photos!

Kanda Myojin Shrine

Constructed 1200 years ago, this shrine has escaped tourists. It was reconstructed a couple of times after suffering damage from both fire and earthquakes, but how it looks is not why it is gaining fame among travelers looking to get off the beaten path. At this shrine, it is believed that all objects have a soul–even your electronics. Bring your gadgets in order to have them blessed and protected from hackers and computer viruses. It is now common IT entrepreneurs bring their devices in order to have them transformed by priests into talismans for their future business.

Visit Piss Alley 

Originally known as “Piss Alley,” this street’s name was recently changed into Omide yokocho , or “Memory Lane.” During World War II there was a lack of toilet facilities, so people chose to relieve themselves in this area. Despite its former moniker, it is now a beautiful spot with a variety of beer and barbecue shops worth visiting. It is located near the Shinjuku station.

Spend a night in Tokyo Love hotel 

There are a number love hotels in Tokyo, which serve exactly the function of what the name suggests. You’ll need to do a bit of research in order to find out which ones cater to foreigners and which are solely meant for locals, otherwise you might be turned away. You’ll find a number of different themes available depending on what you want and you can choose the desired accessories you want from the available menus.

Dine at Kawaii Monster Café 

The Kawaii Monster Café is the epitome of cuteness in Japanese culture, however, for many it might seem like a psychedelic child fantasy. It is filled with bright colors and vivid sounds–be prepared to feel as though you are three years old again. Along with a merry-go-round with life-size gummy bears, you can also order rainbow-colored food or a jellyfish cocktail. Take a step away from reality in order to enjoy it. 

Have any suggestions for those wanting to experience a different type of Tokyo?

Alex is the founder of Alex on the Map, a site devoted to national park guides, hiking, climbing, and enjoying your outdoor adventures. After growing up near Glacier National Park in Montana, Alex now spends summers in the American West hitting up the trail with her husband and dog.

Her work has been featured in Fodor's, the Huffington Post, Bustle, and many more. She has also been featured in publications such as The Washington Post, CNN, and USA Today.

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This needs to be on my bucket list for travel. Great info.

Glad it’s helpful! 🙂 Thanks for stopping by!

A must to see and visit place on my next Tokyo trip, thanks for sharing.

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24 of the best experiences in Japan

Mar 23, 2024 • 17 min read

Tokyo has a quirky delight around every corner © ModernewWorld / Getty Images

Japan sparks all the senses, from its temple bells, capsule hotels and breezy cat islands to outdoor sculptures, pine-forest hot springs and umami flavors in world-class dining.

The downside of having so many incredible attractions in one country is feeling overwhelmed by the options – where to even begin? Don't worry – we're here to help with a round-up of the best things to do in Japan , both celebrated and under the radar.

1. Devour authentic Japanese food alongside locals

Wafting aromas of charcoal yakitori chicken skewers with sweet teriyaki sauce. The sizzle of okonomiyaki seafood and cabbage "pancakes" on the hotplate.

Everywhere you turn, restaurants and tiny diners whip up magnificent Japanese dishes. Osaka and Fukuoka's yatai (moveable stalls) make for a street-food paradise, and trying  different flavors every day is one of the most exciting Japanese experiences.

For casual eating for couples and groups, a cavernous izakaya is a great choice – part bar, part restaurant, and dependable for a good-value meal of nabemono (hotpot dishes), Kobe and wagyū beef, sashimi and grilled fish.

Solo travelers (and fussy kids) can join the fun, picking out sushi from a kaiten-zushi conveyor-belt restaurant such as  Numazukō  in Tokyo.

Modern Japanese snacks that are faves with youngsters include cartoonishly fluffy hotcakes, omurice (rice-filled omelet and ketchup) and pyramids of strawberry-and-cream sando (sandwiches).

Plenty of small restaurants specialize in just one dish, such as kara-age (fried chicken), udon (thick wheat noodles), soba (thin buckwheat noodles) or katsu-kare (crumbed pork-cutlet in mild curry).

Even small yakitori (barbecued chicken skewers) bars can wow you with their simple smoky flavors that pair perfectly with a glass of sake.

Local tip: A teishoku (set menu) lets you try a bit of everything (rice and miso soup included) and is a popular choice for lunch or a casual dinner.

2. Chase cherry blossoms and festivals

Japan loves a festival. There are plenty of matsuri (festivals) to celebrate snow, summer, music or any subject you can dream up.

They are an entertaining way to watch dancers and drummers in the traditional dress of each region, enjoy some street food and be dazzled by lanterns and fireworks. Things stay mostly orderly and child-friendly.

Cherry blossom viewing is nature’s festival and attracts a global crowd – the pink and white blooms signal the end of March and winter. The top spots to see loads of flowers are  Mount Yoshino , the Fuji Five Lakes region, castles like Hirosaki-jō , and all across Kyoto.

The other big festivals worth planning for include Kyoto’s summer bash, Gion Matsuri, in July, when you can catch giant floats and locals dressed in elegant yukata (cotton robes).

Sapporo’s annual snow festival in early February, Yuki Matsuri, includes the international snow sculpture contest, ice slides and mazes for kids.

3. Cycle between islands around the Seto Inland sea

The Shimanami Kaido is a place spun from the stuff of cyclists’ dreams. A 70km (43-mile) blue-painted cycle route unfurls across six islands, taking in jade mountains, orange groves and sea air.

From Onomichi on Honshū to Imabari on Shikoku, you can make stops to swim at secluded beaches, visit a museum dedicated to local painters, and visit shrines with sea views all to yourself.

Detour : To get even more off the beaten track, take the Tobishima Kaido cycle route.

4. Sip sake in Saijō

Come to a sake town for a blissfully quiet and meditative experience. Lift the small cup with two hands, one supporting the bottom. Admire the gold leaf dancing on the clear sake. Sip and feel the smooth, crisp liquid go down, chased with a hint of plum.

Then it’s on to another brewery next door. The process of transforming rice into alcohol goes back 2000 years, and some Saijō breweries date back 150 years.

The town is an austere set of eight white-washed breweries with brick chimney stacks proclaiming the name of each one in Japanese. Begin your taste-testing at the Kamotsuru Sake Brewing Company , where you can watch the brewing process.

Feudal lords drank here during the Edo period (1603–1868), and it was this brewery that produced a gold-leaf sake that US President Obama tried in Tokyo, poured by late Japanese President Abe. It may even entice you to declare your devotion to the god of sake .

5. Time jump to ancient Japan in Kyoto

With over 2000 exquisite temples, Kyoto is where traditional Japan thrives. Visiting splendid gardens and ceremonial teahouses is part of the deep dive into its history.

One of the most exquisite sights in the whole of Japan is the gold-leaf tiers of Kinkaku-ji . Its temple beams gloriously in the sun, with a mirror image in the pond below, framed by layers of pine trees.

The garden tradition in Kyoto has close ties to monks, emperors and philosophers. Japanese gardens have minimalist designs to allow breathing room for meditation and reflection.

The finest gardens in Kyoto show personality even through subtle choices: a weathered bridge to represent the march of time or unique pebbles. The most intriguing Zen garden is Ryōan-ji , a mysterious arrangement of 15 rocks.

Planning tip: There is a lot to love in Kyoto, so arrive early on a weekday to beat intense crowds and enjoy a peaceful time reflecting on Japan’s living traditions. Come evening, stroll through lantern-lit streets lined with 17th-century traditional restaurants and teahouses in the Gion entertainment and geisha quarter.

6. Zip across Japan on a bullet train

Its space shuttle nose glides into the station as if from another cosmos. That galaxy is Japan, where high-speed trains zip between cities at up to 320 kph (199 mph) with extra-terrestrial speed and comfort.

From the clean, comfortable seats, watch skyscrapers scroll by, transforming into pines and rural countryside in a flash.

There's a touch of yesteryear to the hard-wearing carpets and putty-colored luggage racks of some train models, but nothing looks weathered; it's just carriage loads of retro-futuristic charm.

Planning tip: The JR Pass and other all-inclusive train tickets can save you money and time. Some are cheaper to buy before arriving in Japan. Use the Japan Official Travel App to plan trips and compare costs with and without a pass.

7. Enter anime worlds in Akihabara and Den Den Town

Akihabara in Tokyo and Den Den Town in Osaka are heaven for anime otaku (fanatics). Even if you aren’t a fan, these specialist districts are worth visiting to experience the height of artistic obsession done the Japanese way.

In Japan, anime is more than something you watch – it is toys, video games, fashion and a way of life. Anime characters even emblazon credit cards, trains and government brochures. Lose yourself in these neighborhoods and see fans bringing characters to life in costume.

It’s easy to be dazzled and transported into a cartoon world (and consumerism). Under towers of bright lights, French-style maids and cosplay characters tout you to enter maid cafes in Akihabara.

Hundreds of stores have all the manga (comics), gashapon (gumball toy machines), retro collectibles and cutting-edge tech gadgets your otaku heart could want.

Detour : If you – or the kids – prefer a calmer way to be spirited away by anime, the Ghibli Museum in West Tokyo is also magical.

8. Sleep in a capsule hotel

Get ready for a wonderfully unique Japanese experience. Scan the stacks of capsules and step up the ladder into your "space pod."

Sit cross-legged (there’s enough room) and enjoy the plush mattress and the feeling of being cocooned in comfort.

A capsule hotel is where a bed is for sleeping and privacy – paramount in Japan. Fortunately, there is plenty of space in the communal bathrooms that usually have ample shower cubicles.

On the weekends, the cheaper capsule hotels might get drunken revelers snoring, but people are generally very respectful.

This is not a place for socializing, which is heaven for solo travelers who just want a good night’s rest in what looks like a spotless space station.

Planning tip: Capsules are separated into men's and women's sections. While originally intended for businessmen, today there are several women-only capsule hotels.

9. Indulge in a multi-course kaiseki meal

Capturing ingredients at the height of their freshness is the essence of a Japanese kaiseki meal. The tasting menu is where the pinnacle of Japanese design meets natural beauty and flavor with roots in sixteenth-century tea ceremonies.

In-season ingredients make up a formal kaiseki meal that might start with a course of sea urchin and horsehair crab, and then move on to a soup and a seasonal platter of dishes like sushi and Kameoka beef.

The subsequent courses are dedicated to in-season sashimi, color-coordinated vegetables and tofu, grilled seasonal fish, sake, rice in a clay hot pot and dessert. In spring, expect a budding cherry blossom to decorate your plate. Every course is a gasp-inducing journey through Japanese ceramics and presentation.

Local tip : You'll find some of the best kaiseki in Kyoto, such as at Kikunoi . If your budget can't stretch to the full  kaiseki experience, attending a Japanese tea ceremony is an elegant way to capture some of the rituals and learn the traditions of tea.

10. Find your tribe in Tokyo's nightlife

Tokyo is the cool kid of Japan’s club and bar scene. That means a reliable night of house music at Womb and EDM at Atom Tokyo . Punk, metal and indie bars rock hard throughout "Shimokita" (Shimokitazawa).

Leading the way for LGBTIQ+ inclusion, the raucous crowds spilling onto the street around the gay clubs of Shinjuku-Nichōme show how progressive Tokyo can be.

Detour: For something more laid back, excellent whiskey bars operate across Tokyo. Japanese distillers regularly beat Scotland in whiskey competitions. Indulge at one of the best whiskey purveyors, Bar Benfiddich , if you can find this hidden, menu-less cocktail speakeasy.

11. Try every Japanese snack in a konbini

Japanese konbini (convenience stores) are one of Japan's most fun local eating experiences.

They might not be fine dining, but they’re part of many Japanese bullet train journeys, and they surprisingly (to most foreigners) offer high-quality snacks wherever you are in the country, 24 hours a day.

Tasty sushi, onigiri (rice balls filled with tuna, meat or plum) and grilled-fish bento meals are delivered around the clock, so you will likely get something fresh. You'll find more novelty and an explosion of choice (and matcha flavors) in the candy, beer and green tea aisles.

Planning tip : The most reliably good konbini are Family Mart, 7-Eleven and Lawson, which all have ATMs accepting foreign cards.

12. Dissolve away your stress in onsen hot springs

An onsen hot spring takes volcanic energy and converts it to a hot bath with the power to evaporate your worries.

A 3000-year tradition, onsen are found all over Japan and are among the most authentically Japanese experiences you can have, whether you're bathing at humble public bathhouses or in Zen gardens.

The natural settings allow you to feel the delicious contrast of the hot waters against the pine-fresh open air.

You can try them in many ryokan (traditional inns) and in resort towns such as Kusatsu and Beppu , where budget options are available in public bathhouses. To literally dip your toes in, there are free outdoor public foot baths in onsen towns.

Local tip: You have to bathe thoroughly at separate facilities before getting into a hot bath. Expect to get completely naked (modesty towels are allowed at some modern baths) and refreshed head to toe.

13. Live out samurai fantasies in Japanese castles

Samurai warriors once ruled Japan, residing around Japanese castles that still exude an aura of power today. Crane your head up to behold Himeji-jō (1580) – the most heavenly white, intact fortress of them all and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Then wander the complex along its labyrinth of paths, thick with cherry blossoms (in April). Ascend the six-story castle-keep and peek inside a former princess' residence – the stuff of peak Japanese fantasy.

The castle has crumbled, but samurai residences live on in Tsuwano, a Japanese mountain town where time seems in no hurry.

Zig-zag up to its hillside temple through the many torii gates. At the heart of town, surrounded by sleepy sake storefronts, you can step into former samurai houses, once off-limits to commoners.

If you want a Japanese fairytale without the crowds, Tsuwano delivers it. Golden carp swim the narrow canal running through the tow center as they have for two centuries.

14. Hunt for art outdoors in Naoshima and Hakone

Encountering contemporary art on an island village is a delight. On Naoshima and the surrounding islands, you’ll find traditional Japanese buildings converted into modern art installations incorporating the island’s history; he sunshine and sea air add an extra layer of sensory magic.

One of the most famous and joy-filled is the Yayoi Kusama Yellow Pumpkin sculpture waiting for you at the end of a jetty.

Nearer Tokyo, over a hundred monumental sculptures pepper the hills of Hakone Open-Air Museum . Thanks to this magical setting, works by Japanese and international artists such as Takao Tsuchida, Henry Moore and Picasso transform along with the seasons.

15. Stay in a traditional ryokan

A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn that, at its best, is fit for a feudal lord. Staying in a ryokan room is easy and rewarding – remove your slippers, slide open the shōji paper-screen door and step across the tatami mat floor of your room to the window.

The sunset flickers through the maple leaves and across the futon. When ready, change into your yukata (traditional cotton robe) and head to the dining room for a multi-course kaiseki meal of the region’s cuisine.

Local tip: Afterwards, take a dip in the onsen or slip straight into your reassuringly firm bed.

16. Embrace winter skiing and ice sculptures in Hokkaidō

Snow poised on the eaves of temples. Trees glazed with ice. Steam wafting over the onsen. Winter in Japan's north peaks in January, and February is the perfect time for skiing and hiking across powdery snow in the wilds of Hokkaidō .

Or enjoy the Japanese art of coziness in izakaya (taverns) with winter comfort dishes like oden fishcakes in a dashi broth.

For families, the ice sculptures of the Sapporo Snow Festival and the bathing wild monkeys of Jigokudani Monkey Park are fun for all ages. You might even spot Japan's iconic red-crowned cranes.

Detour: A side trip for taste-testing at Nikka Whisky is a warming delight.

17. Immerse yourself in digital art at teamLab Planets

There are plenty of themed museums in Japan, but the most avante garde is teamLab Planets . Every surface is a digital screen with a world of flowers, animals and scenery transporting you to another "planet." Prepare to get your feet wet as you walk on water, causing ripples and digital koi goldfish to dart.

Detour : Check out a Nintendo-themed cafe , Pokémon-themed cafe  or Tokyo Character Street  if you're visiting Tokyo with kids . Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea are also accessible from the capital.

18. Eat fresh sushi and sashimi

Japan is the largest fish-eating nation in the world. Preparing fish and seafood is an art, and its fish markets are the life force of that tradition. They are impeccably clean places with barely any fishy smells.

Early risers can catch the wholesale auctions at Tokyo's Toyosu Market from behind glass. The laneways of its former home at Tsukiji Market may have become a tourist-focused attraction, but restaurants across the country (especially in coastal towns) still sell excellent platters of sashimi and sushi prepared before you.

If it's all a little confusing, choose sushi sets in sushi-ya (sushi restaurants and bars). Or trust the chef at omakase restaurants, where your personal chef will prepare in-season and classic sushi and sashimi in front of you based on your tastes. Bill shock is quite possible.

Local tip: Karato Ichiba in Shimonoseki is a favorite market for a local vibe. On weekends, fisher folk set up stalls selling bentō of sashimi and cooked dishes of the local specialty, puffer fish (with the deadly parts removed, of course).

19. Make a wish at a Shinto shrine

Shinto shrines are where the Japanese pray or ask for good fortune. The kami (deities) range from Princess Konohanasakuya, the Shinto deity of Mount Fuji, to founders of powerful clans, or neighborhood deities.

A wall of ema (wooden tablets) hangs at many shrines, where you can write down your wish or offering for the deities to read. For a visitor, it’s a chance to reflect and appreciate the tranquil surroundings.

A Shinto shrine is a place in harmony with nature, where the trees and wind are framed by a giant gate.

Pray to the kami of rice at Kyoto's Fushimi Inari-Taisha and its tunnel of vermillion torii gates, ask for good exam results at plum-tree decorated Tenjin shrine Dazaifu Tenman-gū , or pray for general good luck at what is thought to be Japan’s oldest Shinto shrine, Izumo Taisha .

20. Relax in a seaside town

Japan is a country born of the sea. In its seaside towns, you’ll see squid drying on spinning racks in the sun, eat the freshest sashimi, find wooden shopfronts of yesteryear and soak up the lazy rays.

Tomonoura inspired anime maestro Hayao Miyazaki to create Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea – get ready to be entranced by the green hills that shelter a port of bobbing white boats. In Kamakura near Tokyo, you can stroll from a giant Buddha statue to the black-sand beach and admire sunsets from Enoshima Island.

There are 260 inhabited islands to retreat to. The Oki Islands are an oasis of sea coves, the highest sea cliffs in Japan and pristine waters all to yourself. To really slow down, Okinawa is an island dreamland with its own distinct culture and cuisine.

There are a handful of cat islands where hundreds of spoiled felines roam near the ports. From Tokyo, the most convenient is Tashirojima. Cats have wandered this island for hundreds of years – first to control the mice eating the silkworms, then as a lucky companion to fisherfolk.

Local tip: Matsue has one of Japan’s best sunsets. The giant red orb melts into the water with a silhouette of a torii gate on a distant shimmering island.

21. Sense peace in reborn Hiroshima

Hiroshima today is an attractive city of boulevards and okonomiyaki restaurants. It’s also a city that can change the way you think about world conflicts.

The impressive Peace Memorial Park shows how the human tragedy of the atomic bomb attack on the city has been transformed into a message of peace.

The Peace Memorial Museum is moving, while the outdoor space gives visitors the breathing room to reflect. There, the Children's Peace Monument is decorated with strings of thousands of paper cranes sent from schoolchildren around Japan and the world. The origami symbol of longevity and happiness is an ongoing living message of peace.

22. Discover your favorite ramen

Is it a bowl of noodles in a dashi broth topped with sliced roast pork, or is it a cult? Ramen is both. Evangelists insist that the best ramen is at nothing-fancy ramen-ya (ramen diners), which boomed after World War II.

Today you can slurp it your own way: shōyu (soy sauce) ramen, miso (soybean paste) ramen, Kitakata ramen (pork shōyu ), dipping ramen or, the most famous internationally, tonkotsu (pork bone) ramen.

A few ramen restaurants in Tokyo (where the fusion started) even hold a Michelin star: Nakiryu , Konjiki Hototogisu and Ginza Hachigo .

Each region has its own spin on the meal – from thin noodles in a clear soup (closer to its Chinese origins) to a thick ginger broth. Nearly all offer an optional side dish of gyōza (pork dumplings) and a heavenly gooey egg.

23. Surf and chill

Japan has a vibrant scene of two million surfers who know where to find turquoise waters and sparkling sand. Even if you can’t yet catch a wave, the best surf beaches in Japan have a chilled vibe that you can enjoy.

Learn to surf at one of the schools at Shirara-hama , which has year-round, easygoing breaks. Swells tend to be smaller in Japan (outside of typhoons), making it a great spot for newbies.

Ōkinohama in Shikoku is a surfer’s paradise. The jewel-like water is warm year-round and sees very few visitors.

Detour : Even if you are in Tokyo, the waves and summer beach shacks are just an hour away at Yuigahama Beach in Kamakura .

24. Fall in love with Mt Fuji

Outside of Tokyo, Mt Fuji seems to be everywhere you turn. More than Japan's loftiest mountain, Mt Fuji is a spiritual symbol that represents perfect beauty. Hiking its alien slopes takes the dedication of a Shinto pilgrim.

For easier admiration, make day trips to Hakone and the Fuji Five Lakes . Here, whether you see Mt Fuji from behind a frame of golden leaves, cherry blossoms and a shrine or even a konbini;  there is something bewitching about witnessing Fuji as it dominates the horizon.

This article was first published Sep 21, 2021 and updated Mar 23, 2024.

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33 Epic Things to Do in Japan [2024 Ultimate Guide]

• Last Updated: January 25, 2024

We’ve spent months exploring this incredible country to bring you our list of the absolute best things to do in Japan! Let’s get into it.

The Land of the Rising Sun is one of the most unique and captivating countries in the world.

Japan is a country with a fascinating heritage and interesting history – it’s just so much fun visiting its many attractions.

You can see things like old temples and shrines, royal palaces, hot springs, breathtaking gardens, and even quirky fun attractions like real life Mario Kart.

You can also taste authentic Japanese cuisine right at the source, admire a Japanese Garden or Buddhist Temple, try a tea ceremony, see the cherry blossoms, or visit all the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Japan is a great destination for everyone, from families to independent travellers; anyone will easily have a great time there.

Table of Contents

1. Follow the Sakura (Cherry Blossoms)

2. escape from tokyo’s bustle in a bamboo grove, 3. climb mount osore and soak in a natural hot spring, 4. party with robots in tokyo, 5. watch sumo wrestling, 6. immerse yourself in the ghibli museum, 7. haggle in nishiki market, 8. see the meiji shrine in tokyo, 9. explore the temples of mount koya, 10. stroll through the flower tunnels, 11. explore japan’s history at the imperial palace, 12. hike with monkeys on monkey mountain, 13. visit the resting place of the shoguns, 14. be in awe of tokyo’s oldest temple, the senso-ji temple, 15. see the towering buddha on todaji temple, 16. hike the legendary mount fuji, 17. experience the elegance of himeji castle, 18. immerse yourself in the magic of the tokyo national museum, 19. taste the finest sushi in japan, 20. visit the most sacred shrine in japan, 21. relax in rikugen garden, 22. marvel at the sculptures in the hakone open-air museum, 23. commemorate the past in the nagasaki bombing museum, 24. dive the fantastic waters, 25. take to the slopes for a ski session, 26. experience the art at naoshima island, 27. experience a matsuri festival, 28. cross the busy shibuya crossing in tokyo, 29. spend the night in a capsule hotel, 30. be amazed at the hospitality in a ryokan, 31. buy some traditional japanese crafts, 32. lounge at sunayama beach, 33. escape the hustle and bustle to enryakuji temple, our guide to the best things to do in japan.

The country is filled with one-of-a-kind attractions that are uniquely Japanese. That means the best things to do in Japan are usually those that you won’t be able to find anywhere else.

From the famous sights like Mount Fuji, to the national parks, traditional arts markets and museums, there are so many incredible tourist attractions to see when you visit Japan.

Don’t miss out on our complete guide to the top  places to visit in Japan !

The sakura cherry blossoms are a defining symbol of Japan and one of the most eagerly awaited natural phenomena in the country.

These delicate, pink flowers bloom for a brief period in spring, typically from late March to early April, and are celebrated for their ephemeral beauty.

The transient nature of the blossoms has come to represent the fleeting nature of life and is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture.

Witnessing the sakura in full bloom is often listed as one of the top things to do in Japan, and for good reason.

The cherry blossoms are not only visually stunning, but they also hold a special place in the hearts of the Japanese people.

The arrival of sakura season is synonymous with the beginning of a new cycle, a time for renewal, and a reminder to appreciate the beauty of the present moment.

Throughout Japan, you can find numerous parks, temples and shrines, and streets lined with cherry blossom trees, creating a breathtaking backdrop for the age-old tradition of hanami, or cherry blossom viewing parties.

Friends, families, and colleagues come together to share food, drink, and laughter under the blooming canopies.

To experience the magic of sakura season, plan a visit to popular viewing spots like Tokyo’s Ueno Park, Kyoto’s Philosopher’s Path, or Hirosaki Park in Aomori.

Keep in mind that the exact timing of the blossoms varies from year to year, so it’s important to monitor forecasts for the best viewing opportunities.

The cherry blossoms are an essential part of the Japanese experience, so be sure not to miss this enchanting display when considering fun things to do in Japan.

Suzume-no Oyado Ryokuchi Park is one of the most pleasant and relaxing spots in Tokyo.

It may just be a bamboo grove, but it’s so enchanting and relaxing that you’ll want to come back over and over again.

The entire park is filled with a nice chill breeze, and there are plenty of comfortable spots to lounge.

It even has several open areas that can be used for anything, like for children running around and picnics.

At the far end of the park, you’ll find a traditional, yet refurbished, Japanese home that’s open to the public.

Check out our ultimate guide to the best  things to do in Tokyo !

This mountain is considered to be one of the three most sacred places to visit in Japan, and it’s the site of the very well-known Bodaiji Temple in Mutsu City.

The entire area is rich in volcanic activity, which is why there is a persistent odour of sulphur in the air.

Osorezan, or Mount Osore, is thought to be the entrance to the underworld, which is why its name means Fear Mountain.

The temple is really popular, which is why there are overnight lodgings. The hot springs near the temple are one of the many reasons visitors visit this place. The volcanic activity underground heats the water in these pools, making the hot springs a real treat!

The nearby Lake Usori is a really solemn and beautiful spot, although visitors should definitely avoid its poisonous waters.

*** Unfortunately this is closed now. The Samurai Restaurant is in its place, and the Robot Restaurant is intending to reopen eventually.

Tokyo is one of the world’s most modern cities, and that’s very apparent in its flair for science fiction.

The Shinjuku Robot Restaurant is one bombastic and lively spot where you’ll find regular nightly shows that feature its staff dressed like robots and futuristic machinery while performing mock battles.

It’s an experience like no other, and even though it’s loud and filled with pulsing neon lights and large crowds, it’s still one of the most unique attractions to visit in Japan.

If you’re a fan of Gundam, or anything that’s related to robots, then you’ll definitely enjoy this restaurant.

Sumo wrestling is an old and exciting sport from Japan that has a long-lasting tradition.

Originally, Sumo was meant to be a ritual of sorts with Shinto roots where its fighters wrestled in order to entertain and appease the gods.

Today, it’s a real spectacle that anyone can easily enjoy ­­– one that Japan is really proud of.

The official Sumo tournaments, or basho, only take place 6 times during the year – every other month from January.

Sometimes, the match might last a mere few seconds, but these heavyweight Sumo wrestlers will definitely entertain you. This is a must on any trip to Japan.

Don’t miss the best  things to do in Osaka !

Anime is one of Japan’s most important and largest cultural exports, so much so that plenty of people in the West spend hours upon hours watching it.

One of the biggest names in anime is Hayao Miyazaki, who’s the creator of Spirited Away, My Neighbour Totoro, and plenty of Anime classics – which he’s created along with his legendary Studio Ghibli.

The Ghibli Museum is one of the most enchanting Japan attractions, because it allows its visitors to take a peek into the genius mind of Miyazaki.

Here you’ll have direct contact with many of his finest works, as well as insight on how he’s created them. This is one of the top tourist attractions in Japan!

Also known as Kyoto’s Kitchen, this five-block shopping street has over a hundred different street food stalls, shops, and restaurants.

The market has a very long history because it used to be a fish wholesale market, with its first shop opening in the early 14 th century.

Here you’ll immerse yourself in one of the most charming and pleasant atmospheres in Kyoto, and you’ll get to explore many of its culinary delicacies that the city is famous for.

Plenty of the shops offer free samples, as well as skewers meant to be eaten right there and then. This market is the best place to try street food in Japan.

There are some establishments where you can sit down and enjoy your delicious Japanese food. It’s located near Shijo Station.

Here’s our complete guide to the best  things to do in Kyoto .

Emperor Meiji was the first emperor of modern Japan, which is a period that began in 1867 when the previous Edo Period ended.

This shrine is dedicated to him and his wife, Empress Shoken, and was built shortly after their deaths.

It’s a complex of buildings, and it’s surrounded by a hundred thousand trees that were planted after the shrine was rebuilt after being destroyed in World War II.

Today, it is one of the most popular things to see in Japan, and it sees over 3 million visitors per year.

Go on a bus tour to visit not only Meiji Shrine but other celebrated highlights of the capital city such as Asakusa and the Tokyo Skytree.

READ MORE: Here’s everything you need to know about  t ravelling in Japan .

It could be said that Mount Koya is the birthplace and the centre of Shingon Buddhism, as this was the spot where Kobo Daishi finally set place in the 9 th century.

Kobo Daishi is considered one of the most important religious figures in the history of Japan, and that’s very evident in the artisanal headquarters of the Shingon sect and the nearby town.

The Garan temple complex on Mount Koya is one of the most sacred sites in Japan, and there are over a hundred temples to explore.

This spot also has overnight stay at the temple lodgings, which is definitely one of the most spiritual things to do in Japan.

Make the most of your vacation with our guide to the  best day trips in Japan .

The Kawachi Wisteria Garden is one of the most unique attractions in Japan. Its main draw are its long tunnels decorated with immaculately kept and displayed wisteria flowers.

Large and looming wisteria trees that form the beautiful flower roof over them bound the two tunnels.

When you’re done with the tunnels, you’ll be greeted by some of the most beautiful and pristine views Japan has to offer at the hillside garden.

From there, you’ll see practically an entire sea of wisteria flowers and sloping hills in the distance.

The flower tunnels are best from mid-April to mid-May & mid-November to early December, and they are located in Kitakyushu.

As one of the most important historical buildings in Japan, the Imperial Palace in Tokyo used to be the Edo Castle in the past.

It was the residence of the Tokugawa Shogun and the Royal Family, and it’s a building that’s seen a lot of hardship.

While there’s no entering the inner courtyard and buildings when you’re on a tour, the palace grounds and eastern gardens are great spots to visit.

Walking around and learning about the country’s turbulent past is one of the best things to do in Japan.

Want to see the Chiyoda Imperial Palace and learn all about the history and architecture? Book this awesome tour where you get enjoy a walking tour of the palace and Japanese gardens with a knowledgable local guide!

Hiking up on Monkey Mountain is easily one of the most unique things to do in Japan.

As the name implies, it’s a mountain where plenty of wild monkeys live, and those are the Japanese macaque, a species native to Japan.

The hike is an easy and pleasant one, which takes about 30 minutes, and at the top you’ll have a gorgeous view of Kyoto, Japan.

The biggest draw of this spot are the monkeys that are generally friendly and docile.

The monkeys are wild animals, however, which means you shouldn’t let your guard down, and the general advice is to never stare at them directly in the eyes.

History lovers have to include this site on their trip to Japan! Before Japan entered its modern era, it was a feudal country that was led by a shogun.

The Tokugawa Shoguns were the leaders of Japan during this period, and Togukawa Ieyasu founded the Shogunate itself.

Today, the first Tokugawa Shogun is enshrined and laid to rest in the Toshogo Shrine, where he’s revered as the Great Deity of the East Shining Light.

Toshogo Shrine is a complex of buildings that’s very intricately and ornately built. The Resting Place of the Shoguns is definitely one of the most fascinating places to visit in Japan.

Senso-ji Temple is one of Tokyo and Japan’s most popular temples.

The temple is dedicated to Kannon, the goddess of mercy, and it’s an entirely beautiful temple with a long and detailed history.

It was built in a unique position meant to protect Tokyo from invaders in the past, and it was even used by the emperor in Japan’s feudal era as one of his personal residences.

Today it’s a place meant for spiritual healing, although it’s pretty popular with tourists too.

The nearby shopping street is another nearby attraction that offers everything from traditional trinkets to unique local treats.

The Todaji temple is one of Japan’s oldest and most important Buddhist temples.

It’s the world’s largest wooden building, even though today’s construction is actually one third smaller than it used to be in the past.

This temple has a very interesting and turbulent history because it grew so powerful in the past that it influenced the government which was then situated in Nara – its city.

Today, it’s still an important religious building, and it houses a towering 15m tall bronze Buddha statue, which is one of Japan’s largest ones.

Mount Fuji is Japan’s most sacred mountain, which has been worshipped for millennia. It’s played a vital role in Japanese society in the past, and it has inspired plenty of artists throughout the ages.

Today, hiking and mountaineering on the legendary Mount Fuji is one of the most popular things to do in Japan.

The official Mount Fuji climbing season is from July 1 st to September 10 th , and there are a few trails to go through.

Yoshida, Subashiri, Gotemba, and Fujinomiya trails are some of the most known and well-marked trails on Mount Fuji, and they each offer a different challenge.

Japan used to be a very militaristic country, but a large portion of its society was artistic, which culminated in some very beautiful castles.

Himeji Castle is one of the few remaining ones that has never been damaged at all by anything, and it’s considered the most beautiful one of the last 12 original Japanese castles.

It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a national treasure, so it should be on everyone’s Japan bucket list.

Called the White Heron Castle, its imposing size and beauty will definitely impress many of its visitors, as visiting it is one of the finest things to do in Japan.

The castle is also a hotspot during cherry blossom season. The Japanese gardens surrounding the castle come to life during the spring cherry blossom season and the natural colors are stunning.

Japan has plenty of museum, but if you only get to pick one, then make sure it’s the Tokyo National Museum.

It’s the perfect spot to visit when you don’t know where to go in Japan but just want to see something natively Japanese.

This museum has an extensive gallery with the finest Japanese art, like ancient pottery, beautifully crafted kimonos, and ukiyo-e – the famous Japanese woodblock prints.

On top of that, it has a lot of historic objects, like samurai swords and katanas, as well as the largest archaeological collection in Japan. Check the website for more info !

Sushi is the finest and most popular dish in Japanese cuisine, which is why every visitor should opt in to try the best one available.

Sushi Dai is one of the best sushi restaurants, where all of its ingredients are completely fresh from the Tsukiji Fish Market downstairs.

Here, you’ll be surrounded by plenty of other tourists and locals as it is quite popular. You can get food a la carte, but the courses are the recommended way to go.

There are even options for those that can’t eat raw fish, as well as meals for children. There is no better place to eat sushi in Japan!

Isse City is home to two very sacred shrines, one of which is the Inner Shrine.

The Inner Shrine, or Kotai Jingu, is the most sacred shrine in the country, and it’s over two thousand years old.

It has a very unique architectural style because there it shows no influence from other Asian countries.

Its architecture predates Buddhism.

Kotai Jingu is dedicated to the Sun Goddess, Shinto’s most venerated deity, and the shrine itself is rebuilt every 20 years according to ancient Shinto traditions.

The next rebuilding is scheduled to be in 2033, and that will be the 63 rd time the shrine will be rebuilt.

Considered the most beautiful garden in Tokyo, Rikugen Garden was built in the early 18 th century for the 5 th Tokugawa Shogun.

Its name means Six Poems Garden, because it’s meant to recreate scenes from famous poems.

The style in which it is built is considered to be one of Edo’s defining ones, with sizeable strolling gardens, a large central pond, and man made hills surrounding it.

A unique balance of nature and art is on display in this museum .

Sculptures are dotted all over the striking landscape outside because these sculptures are meant to be admired while you’re enjoying perfect views of the surrounding nature.

You can also head inside if the weather’s not the greatest, but walking outside admiring the sculptures of both Japanese and international artists is definitely one of the top things to do in Japan.

There’s a space dedicated to different artists, such as Picasso, where you’ll find some of his works, as well as photographs detailing aspects of his life.

World War II was a devastating time for humanity’s history, and that’s very evident in the bombing of Nagasaki.

On August 9, 1945, the world’s second nuclear weapon detonated over Nagasaki, causing tremendous destruction.

Today, the Nagasaki Bombing Museum commemorates the lives lost and the destruction caused – it’s a really somber place to visit.

It recounts the city’s experience through items, artifacts, and firsthand accounts. It’s one of the most inspiring cities in Japan and here you can learn about the city’s struggle to recover after the detonation.

Check out our guide to the top  things to do in Hiroshima , where you can see other WWII Monuments like the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.

Scuba diving is not one of the things Japan is normally known for; however, it’s becoming increasingly popular.

Japan has over thirty thousand kilometers of coastline and an incredible number of diving spots that are unique and interesting to explore.

Marine life is extremely diverse and fascinating. The southern waters of Japan are similar to those in the Philippines and Thailand.

Spots like Miyako Island, Ishigaki Island, and Yoron Island are some of the finest diving spots in the region, although all of Japan’s waters are amazing to explore.

The weather in Japan is generally warm and nice, which is why plenty of people are surprised that it has some of the finest ski conditions in the world.

There are few other locations on the planet that have such ideal powder-skiing conditions such as Japan. The winds that cross the Sea of Japan from Siberia carry snow as thick as 10-20 meters.

Hokkaido has several ski resorts, like Niseko and Furano, and Honshu’s resorts are generally focused around Nagano.

No matter which part of Japan you choose to ski, you’re definitely going to have a great time.

Make the most of your trip with our perfect  Hokkaido itinerary !

Naoshima is an island with a cozy Mediterranean climate, and with a complete focus on art.

It might be a tiny island but it’s entirely filled with museums and galleries, and everywhere you look, you’ll see gorgeous views.

The architecture present on this island is one of the finest things to see in Japan, most of which was designed by famous architect, Ando Tadao.

This island also serves as a venue of art festivals and gatherings, and it hosts plenty of museums dedicated to art.

A matsuri is a festival in Japan, although they widely differ from the west.

Japan is known for having more festivals than practically anywhere else in the world, and they’re lively events with a lot of energy.

Besides amazing performances and music, on matsuris you’ll also find delicious Japanese cuisine and drinks being served at stalls.

Although it might not appear as much on first glance, going over Shibuya Crossing is always an exciting affair.

It’s one of the largest hubs of people, and it’s an intersection that connects two of the busiest railway stations in the world.

It’s ideal for those that don’t know what to do in Japan and just want to see more of it.

It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for a cheap place to spend the night, or just a unique invention in Japan, capsule hotels are fascinating.

They offer a sleeping pod and a little space to stash your luggage in, and that’s pretty much it. Most have a common room and shared bathrooms – they’re very private, however, and can be found anywhere.

Sleeping in one of them is definitely one of the most unique things to do in Japan.

Ryokans are an old-fashioned type of authentic Japanese inn that has existed in Japan for centuries.

They’re considered great places to spend some time, learn about local customs, and maybe try a tea ceremony. They are generally located near hot spring resorts.

If you’re looking for some traditional Japanese hospitality, then look no further as they’re more than a mere place to stay.

In a Ryokan, you’ll get to experience true Japanese culture, lifestyle, baths, and cuisine. Try taking part in a tea ceremony or donning local clothing. Everyone is treated equal, no matter their country of origin.

Craftsmanship and artisanship are completely ingrained in Japanese culture.

The Japan Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square is a store as much as it is a showroom, and it’s completely supported by the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry.

You’ll find unique traditional Japanese Crafts of any make, such as lacquer work boxes, cut glass, textiles, and pottery, as well as any types of trinkets and items of great quality.

Since Japan has such a long coastline, it’s only logical that it has some amazing beaches.

Sunayama Beach, which means Sand Mountain Beach, is located on the largest of the Miyako Islands, and it’s considered one of the finest beaches in the entire wider region.

Miyako Island itself is a flat island made of elevated coral reef, and because there are no rivers on the island, it has a bit of unique geography.

The beach has plenty of modern amenities, and it’s found very close to the city.

Enryakuji Temple is a complex of Buddhist temples with a long and detailed history, and some of the most beautiful dark forests in Japan surround it.

It’s one of the most important monasteries in Japanese history as it’s the headquarters of the Tendai sect of Japanese Buddhism. It’s considered a Japan must see and a very iconic tourist attraction!

The temple itself is very old, as it was built in the 8 th century, and during its peak, it had over 3,000 sub temples and a vast army of warrior monks.

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Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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19 BEST Things to Do in Osaka, Japan [2024 Edition]

The Perfect 3 Days in Tokyo Itinerary

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Experiencing a traditional ryokan in murakami, japan, 18 amazing things to do in kyoto at night (2024 guide), 19 incredible things to do in takayama, japan [2024 guide], the perfect 3 days in osaka itinerary [2024 guide], 4 thoughts on “33 epic things to do in japan [2024 ultimate guide]”.

Shinjuku Robot Restaurant has been closed due to covid and is still listed on here as per 2023 – FYI

thank you for taking your time and provide us with this helpful post. is june a good month to travel there?

Thank you so much. June is a great month to go and visit. 🙂

No, June is not a great idea as it is the Rainy season in Japan.

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Best Things to do in Japan With Kids: A Kid's Take

“Everything there is just so cool!”

That’s what my 11 year old said when I asked him to tell me his top things to do in Japan with kids after our recent visit. I requested his favorite two or three experiences, but he came back with even more because it was too hard for him to narrow it down. And I can’t say I blame him – our family trip to Japan was one of the best vacations we’ve ever taken.

So what does a tween think are the best things to do in Japan with kids his age? Read on to find out!

The feature photo in this article apparently didn’t make the tween’s cut, but it was from the super cool tea ceremony and calligraphy class that we did.

All the Pokémon Things

The Pokémon craze has ebbed and flowed in our home over the last few years but came back in full force in the lead up to our family trip to Japan! These “pocket monsters” (yep, that’s where the name comes from) sit perfectly at the nexus of kawaii (“cute”, as in all the cute things you’ll find in Japan) and Japan’s video game legacy.

Though Pokémon tourism doesn’t really excite us parents, we made sure to build in a few things that were sure to motivate our kids and fill them with delight. Perhaps their favorite of these experiences was staying at “ the Pokémon hotel ” in Kyoto (you can also stay at a Tokyo Pokémon hotel if that’s a better fit for your itinerary).

You can read all about our favorite Pokemon things to do in Japan !

Catch a Sumo Tournament

Sumo is Japan’s national sport and a unique Japanese cultural experience as well. Its origins go back nearly 2,000 years and are rooted agricultural ritual, the Shinto religion, samurai history and more. Be sure to read up to understand it better!

In the modern era, sumo retains plenty of its ritualistic nature and seeing it live reinforces that this isn’t just any sport. If you’re lucky enough to attend a sumo basho , you’ll see the melding of traditional sumo elements with modern Japan. Spectators sit shoeless on the floor in their “boxes” that are lined with cushions while munching on fried chicken, excellent convenience store snacks and vending machine beer (but be sure to bring it all in with you, as there are virtually no concessions). It’s like a huge all-day Japanese indoor picnic!

The kids absolutely loved attending the sumo tournament in Osaka. Even though each match’s wrestling just lasts for a minute, it’s so exciting! Watch the pageantry, choose which sekitori you’ll root for, count the sponsors and more.

There are six 15 day tournaments throughout the year: in Tokyo in January, May and September; in Osaka in March; in Nagoya in July; and in Fukuoka in November. Be sure to buy your tickets in advance, as some of them do sell out. Since they’re structured as tournaments, you’ll see the matches of higher rated wrestlers if you go near the end of the tournament and during the second half of the day.

For parents: I highly recommend reading The Street of a Thousand Blossoms before your trip to Japan! It’s an amazing book showcasing the nation’s transition from its pre-war traditions to the contemporary country we see today. One of the main characters is a rising wrestler, so you’ll get a detailed view of the lives of sumotori.

Go to a Japanese Baseball Game

While sumo is Japan’s official sport, baseball is actually the most popular sport in Japan today. Teams play in the Nippon Professional Baseball league, which consists of 12 teams with a season that runs from late March to late October, though spring break visitors like us can catch pre-season games beginning in late February.

We caught a matchup between the Tokyo-based Yomiuri Giants and the Hokkaido Fighters at the massive Tokyo Dome. I promise, this is the cleanest stadium you’ll ever visit.

What’s it like attending a Japanese baseball game? Like so much in day-to-day Tokyo it has a greater feeling of calm and order than a similar experience in the US. There are no fans shouting foul language and getting ejected for fist fights ( hello, Dodger Stadium! ). At times we felt like the only people in our section doing American-style clapping and cheering.

But that’s not to say fans weren’t engaged! Spectators watched with rapt attention, applauded respectfully for their team and everyone sang their team’s coordinated fight song along with the brass bands located in the “super fan” sections.

There are plenty of concessions on offer, and adults can enjoy a beverage courtesy of the young ladies carrying mini-kegs around the stadium to serve up any type of Japanese beer you can image. It’s also an opportunity to buy a non-touristy souvenir from Japan – our family left with a Giants hat and rally towel, just like the local fans.

Overall hitting a baseball game is one of the best evenings activities in Japan for families – it’s safe, it’s fun, it’s relatively affordable, and it’s a great opportunity to sit down after walking 10 miles every day.

Ride a Bullet Train

Nothing captivates a suburban kid’s imagination more than blazing through the Japanese countryside at 200 mph! If you’re visiting multiple locations in Japan, like Tokyo and Kyoto , you’ll have at least on ride built into your itinerary .

Beyond the speed, bullet trains are just a really cool way to get around. Even the regular “economy” car is spacious and comfortable, with plenty of leg room and seat recline. You’ll even have a tray table to rest your bento box on while you eat – be sure to pick one up in the train station before you board, as there are a million choices. It’s like flying, but 100x more comfortable and fun.

Keep in mind that bullet trains only run between the major stations, so you’ll usually need to plan for either local trains or a taxi on the ends. Individual bullet train rides can be extremely expensive, so it’s worth comparing the prices versus the Japan Rail Pass . We used the 7 day JR Pass during our 10 day visit and it saved us tons of money. During that time we went from Tokyo to Hiroshima to Kyoto and back to Tokyo and saved over $100 per adult.

Read more: Essential Japan Itinerary: 10 Days of Family-Friendly Travel (Plus Optional Extension)

Try New Foods

Most kids visiting Japan for the first time won’t have tried the huge range of local cuisine they’ll encounter. That’s ok! There are plenty of options for both adventurous and particular eaters alike.

For the skeptics, start with noodle dishes like udon and ramen. We did an excellent cooking class on our second day in Tokyo at which we made udon from scratch, so they kids had a deep appreciation for it! At times our particular eater had cold noodles with a little sauce and at other times she had them in a simple soup.

Need some kid-friendly protein? You’ll find fried chicken everywhere and most of it is very good, even some of the convenience store versions. There were more than a few times that fried chicken saved us at lunch time due to our dietary restrictions!

Lots of kids will love kushiyaki, which are skewers of grilled food. At many restaurants you can sit at the bar and watch the skewers as they’re cooked, and there are plenty of varieties from simple cubes of chicken breast to delightful miniature chicken meatballs (both considered “yakitori”) to Wagyu beef. We enjoyed several kushiyaki dinners and everyone walked away happy. The kids even got to try their hand at grilling thanks to a kind vendor outside the Tsukiji Fish Market!

If you’re ready to try some bigger adventures when you’re visiting Japan with kids, conveyer belt sushi is a great fun way to do it. These aren’t the highest quality sushi cuts you’ll find in Japan, but they are a great way to engage your kids and get them to try something new and different. Thankfully we went on a helpful food tour the day we arrived in Tokyo and our guide showed us the ropes! The biggest tip? Even through it’s tempting to grab a plate of fish as it rotates by, the better choice is to order fresh using the tablet at your table. It’ll still (usually) come whizzing out on the upper track, but it’s guaranteed not to have been sitting out for an hour.

Families who venture to Osaka or Hiroshima, you’ll probably encounter the ultimate Japanese comfort food: okonomiyaki . This quickly became our son’s favorite food after we made it in our cooking class , which was pretty surprising given the enormous amount of cabbage involved. But it’s a tasty mix of egg, cabbage, some meat and (depending on who’s making it and where they’re from) a base of fried noodles or buckwheat pancake. Since okonomiyaki translates directly to “grilled how you like it” so there’s plenty of room for variation and personal preference – it can even be a solid option for quasi-vegetarian food in Japan if you go to a place that’s custom making yours (I can’t promise that it won’t have dried fish in the broth, though our cooking class had fully vegetarian ingredients available for us).

When all else fails, bring them back to their comfort zone with a visit to 7-11 to sample some Japanese candy. The flavors are much more diverse and unique than you’ll find in the US but it still counts as broadening their culinary horizons!

Planning Your Kid-Friendly Trip To Japan

I hope this roundup of some of the best things to do in Japan with kids has inspired you to start planning your own amazing family trip to Japan! Let me know in the comments if you have any more questions as you plan your visit. Don’t miss these resources as you plan your own travel to Japan with kids:

• Buy your Japan Rail Pass
• Essential Japan Itinerary: 10 Days of Family-Friendly Travel
• 9 Tips for Japan Travel You Can’t Afford To Miss
• What to Pack for Japan in Spring (and What to Leave at Home)
• Things to do in Tokyo With Kids: Itinerary for 4 Days of Old and New
• Visiting Kyoto With Kids: 2+ Day Itinerary + Must-Read Travel Tips
• Best Family Hotels in Kyoto
• Awesome Pokémon Things to do in Japan
• Visiting the A-Bomb Sites in Hiroshima with Kids
• 10 Japan Cultural Activities & Attractions For Your Bucket List

Still planning? Pin this for later!

The post Best Things to do in Japan With Kids: A Kid’s Take appeared first on The Family Voyage .