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Top Things to Do in Japan
25
items Japan has a way of captivating you with every visit. From the ancient beauty of Kyoto’s temples to the buzzing streets of Tokyo, there’s always something new to discover — even on my umpteenth trip! Whether you're hiking up Mount Fuji, indulging in t...
Sections
6
Northern Kyoto
Southern Kyoto
Eastern Kyoto
Western Kyoto
Central Kyoto
More Fun
Northern Kyoto
North Kyoto is where you’ll find stunning historical gems and scenic landscapes. The Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) shines in its zen-like tranquility, while the breathtaking Arashiyama Bamboo Grove offers a nature-filled adventure that will leave you ...
Kinkakuji (金閣寺, Golden Pavilion) is a Zen temple in northern Kyoto whose top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf. Formally known as Rokuonji, the temple was the retirement villa of the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, and according to his will ...
Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion)
Kibune (貴船) is a small town in a forested valley in the northern mountains of Kyoto City, which developed around Kifune Shrine. According to legend, a goddess traveled in a boat from Osaka all the way up the river into the mountains north of Kyoto, a...
Kibune
Kurama (鞍馬) is a rural town in the northern mountains of Kyoto City, less than one hour from the city center. Kurama's main attraction, Kuramadera, is a Buddhist temple located along the steep wooded mountainside above the town. It takes 30-45 minute...
Kurama
Southern Kyoto
South Kyoto blends traditional charm with natural beauty. Explore serene temples, peaceful gardens, and the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousand torii gates — it's the perfect escape for anyone wanting to unwind and embrace Japan's spiritual...
Visit the iconic red torii gates leading to the Fushimi Inari Shrine. It’s a stunning and spiritual experience, with beautiful views over Kyoto from the top.
Fushimi Inari Shrine
Daigoji (醍醐寺) is an important temple of the Shingon sect of Japanese Buddhism and a World Heritage Site. The large temple complex stands southeast of central Kyoto and includes an entire mountainside. The main temple grounds are located at the base o...
Daigoji Temple
The Fushimi Sake District (伏見) is a charming, traditional sake brewing district along the willow-lined Horikawa River in southern Kyoto. Revered for the clean, soft water that flows in abundance from the river's underground springs, the district is h...
Fushimi Sake District
Eastern Kyoto
East Kyoto dazzles with its mix of vibrant culture and outdoor beauty. Here, you can stroll through the majestic Gion District, spot traditional tea houses, and wander through picturesque shrines, making it the ultimate spot for anyone wanting to div...
Kiyomizudera (清水寺, literally "Pure Water Temple") is one of the most celebrated temples of Japan. It was founded in 780 on the site of the Otowa Waterfall in the wooded hills east of Kyoto and derives its name from the fall's waters. The temple was o...
Kiyomizudera Temple
Nanzenji Temple (南禅寺), whose spacious grounds are located at the base of Kyoto's forested Higashiyama mountains, is one of the most important Zen temples in all of Japan. It is the head temple of one of the schools within the Rinzai sect of Japanese ...
Nanzenji Temple
Ginkakuji (銀閣寺, Silver Pavilion) is a Zen temple along Kyoto's eastern mountains (Higashiyama). In 1482, shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa built his retirement villa on the grounds of today's temple, modeled after Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion), his grandfather...
Ginkakuji (Silver Pavilion)
Western Kyoto
West Kyoto holds the key to ancient history. The sprawling Kiyomizu-dera Temple, with its panoramic views, and the Philosopher’s Path provide a peaceful, reflective atmosphere that perfectly complements the city's rich heritage.
Yoshiminedera (善峯寺) is a temple of the Tendai sect of Japanese Buddhism located in Kyoto's western mountains. Similar to Kiyomizudera on the opposite side of town, Yoshiminedera is built along the mountain side and looks out onto Kyoto. The temple gr...
Yoshiminedera Temple
Arashiyama (嵐山) is a pleasant, touristy district in the western outskirts of Kyoto. The area has been a popular destination since the Heian Period (794-1185), when nobles would enjoy its natural setting. Arashiyama is particularly popular during the ...
Stroll through Arashiyama Bamboo Grove (Kyoto)
Saihoji (西芳寺, Saihōji), more commonly known as Kokedera (苔寺), is one of Kyoto's Unesco World Heritage Sites. Entrance to this temple requires an advance reservation.
Kokedera (Moss Temple)
Central Kyoto
Central Kyoto is the bustling heart of the city, where modernity meets tradition. Wander through the vibrant Nishiki Market for local delicacies, explore the stunning Kyoto Imperial Palace, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of downtown — it’s where the...
Nijo Castle (二条城, Nijōjō) was built in 1603 as the Kyoto residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo Period (1603-1868). His grandson Iemitsu completed the castle's palace buildings 23 years later and expanded the castle by adding a fiv...
Nijo Castle (Nijojo)
Nishiki Market (錦市場, Nishiki Ichiba) is a narrow, five block long shopping street lined by more than one hundred shops and restaurants. Known as "Kyoto's Kitchen", this lively retail market specializes in all things food related, like fresh seafood, ...
Nishiki Market
The Kyoto Railway Museum was opened in 2016 by JR West on the former site of the Umekoji Train and Locomotive Museum, about a twenty minute walk west of Kyoto Station. It is one of Japan's three great railway museums.
Kyoto Railway Museum
More Fun
If you want to have more fun, these are the must go to places!
Head to Ichiryu Ramen in Kyoto for some of the city’s best ramen, with rich broths and delicate noodles. Perfect for warming up after a cold Kyoto day.
Ramen at Ichiryu Ramen
Ippodo Tea Co. in Kyoto serves some of the best matcha and green tea, offering a traditional tea ceremony experience in the heart of the city.
Enjoy Traditional Tea at Ippodo Tea Co. (Kyoto)
Take a relaxing dip in a hot spring bath (onsen) in Hakone. Surrounded by scenic nature, it’s a perfect way to unwind after a busy sightseeing day.
Hakone Hot Springs
Take a historic hike through the Nakasendo Trail, which connects Kyoto and Tokyo. This old post town route offers picturesque rural landscapes and traditional villages.
Walking the Historic Nakasendo Samurai Trail
Enjoy a scenic boat ride on the Sumida River in Tokyo, offering views of Tokyo Skytree and the city skyline. A peaceful and fun way to see the city.
Hozukawa River Boat Ride Terminal
Climbing Mount Fuji (3776 meters), Japan's highest and most prominent mountain, can make for lifelong memories. The mountain itself may look more attractive from afar than from close up, but the views on clear days and the experience of climbing thro...
Climbing Mount Fuji
Tsukiji’s outer market offers the freshest sushi and seafood in Tokyo. Try the famous sushi restaurants like Sushizanmai or Uogashi Nihon-Ichi.
Tsukiji Market
Located in Asakusa, this is Tokyo’s oldest temple. Wander around the temple grounds and explore Nakamise Street for traditional snacks and souvenirs.
Sensoji Temple
One of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world, Shibuya Crossing is a must-see when in Tokyo. Nearby, check out trendy shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Visit Shibuya Crossing (Tokyo)
Visit Nara, famous for its friendly deer that roam freely around Nara Park and the giant Buddha statue at Todai-ji Temple. It’s a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the big cities.
Take a Day Trip to Nara