Top 20 Things To Do In Japan in 2026 for Thrilling Holiday

Japan is not just a country- it is a whole experience. It is one of those rare places where ancient temples blend very well with neon skylines beautifully. If you are planning a trip soon, then this guide will be your true companion. It brings you the Top 20 Things To Do in Japan in 2026 for a Thrilling Holiday. This guide will give you a tour of everything from high-speed trains to sacred shrines and sushi markets.

Picture walking through beautiful cherry blossoms in Kyoto to discovering busy Tokyo streets, this list has it all. It will give you the ultimate experiences that every traveller should once explore in their lives, especially if you are a first-time visitor. And if you are travelling for the first time and are unsure where to begin, then we have got you covered. You can book tour packages from trusted platforms like Flip Trip Holidays.

Top 20 Things To Do in Japan in 2025

1. See Cherry Blossoms in Kyoto

There are very few experiences that compare to the Sakura season in Tokyo. Here, you can witness Japan’s iconic cherry blossoms in full bloom. Imagine walking under a canopy of pink petals with a light breeze carrying the beautiful scent of spring. During this time, all locals and tourists gather under the blooming Sakura trees to celebrate Hanami, a century-old tradition. Even the parks, temples, and riversides become scenic picnic spots. This is one of the best things to do in Japan, especially for nature lovers and photographers. Bring your camera here and feel the beauty and freshness slowly.

Quick Details:

Best Time To Visit - Late March to mid-April

Location - Kyoto

Highlights - Night illuminations, Hanami parties, and riverside walks

Price/Timing - Free entry in almost all public parks. Temples may charge around ¥300–¥600.

Tip - Visit in early morning or late evening for fewer crowds.

Why It’s Worth Visiting - Short-lived but unforgettable experience celebrating nature and culture beautifully.

2. Ride the Shinkansen (Bullet Train)

Travelling in the Shinkansen is a wonderful experience. It is truly one of the best things to do in Japan. This iconic bullet train speeds up to 320 km/h, zooming across the countryside and connecting cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka within hours. The train is extremely clean, comfortable, and fast, offering views of Mount Fuji along the way. It’s a true display of Japan’s futuristic engineering and hospitality.

Quick Details:

Best Time To Visit - Anytime of the year

Location - Train routes across Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, Nagano, etc.

Highlights - Mount Fuji views and the 320 km/h high-speed journey

Price/Timing - Approximately ¥1,400 from Tokyo to Kyoto. Rail passes available for tourists.

Tip - Reserve a right-side seat from Tokyo to Kyoto for Mount Fuji views.

Why It’s Worth Visiting - Saves time, feels luxurious, and showcases Japan’s engineering marvel.

3. Explore Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in Kyoto is one of Japan’s most iconic natural sites. Its tall green bamboo stalks create a surreal, serene path often featured in travel magazines. The soft rustling sound of the bamboo has even been named one of Japan’s official “100 Soundscapes.” Pair your visit with a boat ride on the Hozugawa River for an unforgettable experience.

Quick Details:

Best Time To Visit - March–May, October–November (early morning or late afternoon)

Location - Arashiyama District, Kyoto

Highlights - Towering bamboo paths, walking & cycling trails

Price/Timing - Free, open 24/7

Tip - Arrive before 9:00 AM to avoid crowds.

Why It’s Worth Visiting - Japan’s most serene and photogenic nature spot.

4. Visit Tokyo Disneyland & DisneySea

Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea are magical escapes into storybook worlds. Disneyland captures classic Disney charm, while DisneySea is unique in the world with immersive designs, mysterious islands, and thrilling rides. Perfect for both kids and adults, it’s one of Japan’s most popular attractions.

Quick Details:

Best Time To Visit - Weekdays (April–May, September–November)

Location - Urayasu, Chiba (30 mins from central Tokyo)

Highlights - Unique rides, parades, fireworks, seasonal events

Price/Timing - ¥7,900–¥10,900 | 9 AM – 9 PM

Tip - Buy tickets online in advance; wear comfortable shoes.

Why It’s Worth Visiting - Delivers unforgettable experiences to kids and adults alike.

5. Climb or View Mount Fuji

Mount Fuji, Japan’s most iconic peak, is a majestic volcano rising above the clouds. You can hike to its summit or admire it from afar at Lake Kawaguchi or Hakone. Watching the sunrise from the mountain is a deeply spiritual experience for many visitors.

Quick Details:

Best Time To Visit - July–early September (for hiking); October–February (for viewing)

Location - Yamanashi and Shizuoka prefectures

Highlights - Fuji trails, Fuji Five Lakes, hot springs

Price/Timing - Free for viewing; minor fees for hiking

Tip - Book a Fuji-view ryokan in Hakone or Kawaguchiko for the best morning views.

Why It’s Worth Visiting - It’s a bucket-list spiritual and natural wonder.

6. Soak in an Onsen at Hakone

Hakone, near Tokyo, is famous for its natural hot springs (onsen). Relax in mineral-rich waters surrounded by mountains and forests. Many ryokans offer private open-air baths with Mount Fuji views — perfect for couples or solo travelers seeking peace.

Quick Details:

Best Time To Visit - Year-round (magical in winter)

Location - Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture

Highlights - Themed onsens like wine or green tea baths

Price/Timing - Public baths ¥500–¥2,000; Ryokans ¥8,000–¥30,000/night

Tip - Follow onsen etiquette: no swimsuits, wash before entering, keep towels out.

Why It’s Worth Visiting - A complete cultural and relaxing Japanese experience.

7. Walk Through Fushimi Inari Shrine’s Torii Gates

Walk through Kyoto’s iconic red torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha, dedicated to the god of prosperity. The path has over 10,000 gates and becomes more peaceful as you climb higher.

Quick Details:

Best Time To Visit - Spring or Autumn, early morning or evening

Location - Fushimi Ward, Kyoto

Highlights - 24/7 access, peaceful hiking trail

Price/Timing - Free entry

Tip - Wear comfortable shoes for a 2–3 hour hike.

Why It’s Worth Visiting - One of Japan’s most spiritual and iconic landmarks.

8. Dive into Anime Culture in Akihabara

Akihabara, Tokyo’s electric town, is heaven for anime and gaming fans. Explore themed cafés, retro game stores, and manga shops — it’s the heart of otaku culture.

Quick Details:

Best Time To Visit - Weekdays (avoid weekend crowds)

Location - Chiyoda, Tokyo

Highlights - Anime stores, arcades, maid cafés

Price/Timing - Free to explore

Tip - Carry cash as not all stores accept cards.

Why It’s Worth Visiting - The ultimate place for anime and gaming lovers.

9. Eat Fresh Sushi at Tsukiji Outer Market

Tsukiji Outer Market is Tokyo’s culinary paradise offering melt-in-your-mouth sushi, sashimi, grilled seafood, tamagoyaki, and matcha desserts. The market buzzes with local chefs and visitors enjoying Japan’s freshest flavors.

Quick Details:

Best Time To Visit - Early morning

Location - Near Tsukiji and Shintomicho stations, Tokyo

Highlights - Fresh sushi, seafood skewers, tamagoyaki

Price/Timing - Varies by stall; closed some Wednesdays/Sundays

Tip - Bring cash; eating while standing is normal.

Why It’s Worth Visiting - A sensory delight showcasing Japan’s food culture.

10. Watch Sumo Wrestling in Ryogoku

Experience Japan’s national sport at Ryogoku Kokugikan. Sumo wrestling combines raw strength with centuries-old rituals and traditions, making it a fascinating cultural event.

Quick Details:

Best Time To Visit - January, May, and September (tournament months)

Location - Ryogoku Kokugikan, Sumida City, Tokyo

Highlights - Live tournaments, sumo museum

Price/Timing - ¥3,000–¥10,000 | 8 AM – 6 PM

Tip - Book tickets early for front-row seats.

Why It’s Worth Visiting - Experience Japan’s oldest living tradition firsthand.

11. Explore Dotonbori Street in Osaka

Dotonbori is Osaka’s entertainment and street food paradise, glowing with neon lights, giant signboards, and the famous Glico Running Man. It’s one of the best places to taste takoyaki and okonomiyaki while soaking up Japan’s nightlife energy.

Quick Details:

Best Time To Visit - Evening to late night

Location - Dotonbori Canal Area, Osaka

Highlights - Street food, neon lights, canal cruises

Price/Timing - Free to explore | Open all day

Tip - Try Glico Man selfie and sample food from small stalls.

Why It’s Worth Visiting - The ultimate Osaka nightlife and food experience.

12. Visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

A deeply emotional and educational place, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park reminds visitors of the tragic atomic bombing of 1945. The park includes the Atomic Bomb Dome, Peace Memorial Museum, and serene gardens dedicated to peace and reflection.

Quick Details:

Best Time To Visit - Spring or autumn for pleasant weather

Location - Hiroshima City

Highlights - Peace Museum, Children’s Peace Monument, Flame of Peace

Price/Timing - ¥200 (museum) | 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM

Tip - Allow at least 2–3 hours to explore and reflect.

Why It’s Worth Visiting - A powerful message of peace and hope for humanity.

13. Discover Himeji Castle

Known as the “White Heron Castle,” Himeji Castle is Japan’s most beautiful and best-preserved feudal castle. Its brilliant white walls and elegant design have made it a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a national treasure.

Quick Details:

Best Time To Visit - Spring for cherry blossoms, autumn for foliage

Location - Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture

Highlights - Castle interiors, gardens, panoramic views

Price/Timing - ¥1,000 | 9 AM – 5 PM

Tip - Visit early to avoid long entry lines.

Why It’s Worth Visiting - Japan’s most stunning and historically significant castle.

14. Experience a Tea Ceremony in Kyoto

Participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony — an art of mindfulness, respect, and beauty. In Kyoto, many tea houses near Gion and Arashiyama offer authentic experiences led by tea masters.

Quick Details:

Best Time To Visit - Year-round

Location - Kyoto (Gion, Arashiyama, Higashiyama)

Highlights - Matcha preparation, kimono-wearing options

Price/Timing - ¥2,000–¥4,000 | 30–60 minutes

Tip - Book in advance; remove shoes before entering tea rooms.

Why It’s Worth Visiting - A peaceful and cultural Japanese tradition of grace and respect.

15. Visit the Deer of Nara Park

Nara Park is home to hundreds of friendly, free-roaming deer considered messengers of the gods in Shinto belief. You can feed them special crackers (shika senbei) and explore ancient temples nearby.

Quick Details:

Best Time To Visit - Spring and autumn

Location - Nara City, near Osaka/Kyoto

Highlights - Deer feeding, Todai-ji Temple, giant Buddha statue

Price/Timing - Free entry; crackers ¥200

Tip - Bow before offering crackers — deer will bow back!

Why It’s Worth Visiting - Adorable and spiritual wildlife experience.

16. Discover Okinawa’s Beaches

Okinawa’s tropical islands boast turquoise waters, white sands, coral reefs, and a laid-back island vibe. Perfect for snorkeling, diving, or just relaxing under palm trees.

Quick Details:

Best Time To Visit - April to October

Location - Okinawa Prefecture (Naha, Miyako, Ishigaki Islands)

Highlights - Snorkeling, coral reefs, island hopping

Price/Timing - Free beaches; tours ¥5,000–¥10,000

Tip - Rent a car or scooter for island exploration.

Why It’s Worth Visiting - Japan’s tropical paradise for beach lovers.

17. Stay in a Traditional Ryokan

A ryokan stay gives you a glimpse into old Japan — tatami floors, futon beds, yukata robes, and multi-course kaiseki dinners. Often paired with hot spring baths, it’s the perfect cultural and relaxing stay.

Quick Details:

Best Time To Visit - Year-round

Location - Hakone, Kyoto, Takayama, or Kanazawa

Highlights - Kaiseki dining, onsen, Japanese hospitality

Price/Timing - ¥10,000–¥30,000 per night

Tip - Arrive by 6 PM for dinner; follow etiquette for bathing and meals.

Why It’s Worth Visiting - Authentic cultural experience of traditional Japan.

18. Visit Universal Studios Japan

Universal Studios Japan (USJ) in Osaka brings movie magic to life with thrilling rides like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Super Nintendo World — a must-visit for families and fans alike.

Quick Details:

Best Time To Visit - Weekdays (avoid national holidays)

Location - Osaka Bay Area

Highlights - Harry Potter World, Mario Kart, Jurassic Park

Price/Timing - ¥8,400–¥9,800 | 9 AM – 9 PM

Tip - Book Express Pass to skip long queues.

Why It’s Worth Visiting - Fun, cinematic, and immersive — great for all ages.

19. Visit the Historic Villages of Shirakawa-go

Shirakawa-go is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its Gassho-zukuri farmhouses — traditional steep-roofed homes built to withstand heavy snow. In winter, it transforms into a fairy-tale snow village.

Quick Details:

Best Time To Visit - Winter (for snow views) or autumn (for colors)

Location - Gifu Prefecture

Highlights - Thatched houses, mountain scenery, winter illumination

Price/Timing - Free to explore

Tip - Visit the Shiroyama Viewpoint for the best panoramic photos.

Why It’s Worth Visiting - A glimpse into Japan’s ancient rural life and beauty.

20. Experience Shibuya Crossing

Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo is one of the world’s busiest pedestrian intersections. Watching thousands of people cross in perfect harmony under neon lights is a uniquely Tokyo moment you’ll never forget.

Quick Details:

Best Time To Visit - Evening or night

Location - Shibuya Station, Tokyo

Highlights - Scramble crossing, Hachiko statue, Shibuya Sky view

Price/Timing - Free | 24/7

Tip - View the crossing from Starbucks or Shibuya Sky deck for best photos.

Why It’s Worth Visiting - Symbolizes Tokyo’s energy, order, and modern lifestyle.

Plan Your Trip with Ease

Japan is a great place to visit, and its planning does not have to be complicated. This place is easy to explore with its excellent public transport and tourist-friendly cities, but arranging everything on your own can be a little stressful. Japan is perfect for solo travellers, couples, and families, as it offers great hospitality with ultimate safety.

If you are short on time or don’t want the hassle of preparing everything all by yourself, then you can choose curated Japan Tour Packages. These packages cover everything from flights, hotel stays, transport, entry tickets, and even guided experiences. You can explore packages curated from Flip Trip Holidays for a smooth travel experience.

Conclusion

Japan offers a truly unforgettable experience with ancient shrines and snow-covered mountains to busy cities and neon-lit streets. This list of the Top 20 things to do in Japan gives us a tour of beautiful cherry blossoms, relaxing Hakone onsen, busy Shibuya crossing, and scenic Mount Fuji view.

No matter what your travel style is, Japan is a great place for adventure seekers, nature lovers, foodie, anime fans, or history enthusiasts. There are countless experiences that are waiting to surprise you.

Japan is calling you. All that’s left is for you to answer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Japan best known for?

Japan is well known for its culture and modern innovation. There are old temples, tea ceremonies, cherry blossoms, origami, and bullet trains that offer a unique experience. Japan is also known for its scenic landscape, sculpture, and more than a dozen UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Is Japan expensive for tourists?

Japan is affordable as well as luxurious; it all depends on your preferences. There are many high-end experiences, but there are also travellers who can enjoy budget local food, transport passes, and capsule hotels.

Do I need a Japan tour package, or can I travel independently?

Both these options are feasible. Japan is a place where transport is tourist-friendly, but a Japan Tour Package can ease your planning and give you the best experience.

What is the best time to visit Japan?

The ideal times to visit Japan are spring (March-May) for cherry blossoms and autumn (October-November) for a colourful foliage. Winter months are also great for skiing and snowboarding.

What are the most famous cities in Japan to visit?

Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, Nara, and Sapporo are among the most visited cities in Japan for experiencing cultural, culinary, and historical experiences.

What should I not miss in Tokyo, Japan?

You should not miss the Shibuya crossing, Tsukiji Market, Tokyo Disneyland, Ginza shopping, Akihabara anime culture, and the Tokyo Skytree.