A Beginner’s Guide to Japan: What to See, Do & Taste

When it comes to visiting Japan, there’s a lot to consider. With so much choice of things to see, do and taste, it can be overwhelming. Fortunately, there’s lots of information around to help you make some educated decisions when it comes to planning your trip.

Modern-day Japan includes an incredible mix of traditional aspects mixed with futuristic features. From jaw-dropping mountains to sky-high cityscapes, you definitely won’t be bored.

What to see

Tokyo

An obvious choice, Tokyo is one of the most unique cities in the world. There’s an outstanding variety of things to do, see and eat here. It’s also most likely where you’ll be flying to and from.

Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

Most commonly known as the ‘Orange Gates’, the Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine comprises thousands of orange gates. The gates cover a maze of paths that lead you up to the shrine. If the name doesn’t sound familiar, you’ll have seen a picture or two before.

Mt Fuji

There aren’t many who haven’t heard of this mountain; one of the go-to places to head to whilst in Japan.

Hakone

Located at the foot of Mt Fuji, this is one of the most peaceful places you’re likely to visit in Japan. It’s also a perfect opportunity to take advantage of their onsen.

Kyoto (Arashiyama and The Golden Pavilion)

The place to be if you’re after some history, temples and plenty of breath-taking architecture. Head over to the Western edge to visit Arashiyama, an area full of temples, shrines and the infamous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. The Golden Pavilion is also in Kyoto and is one of the most popular temples to visit.

What to do

Game centers

Gaming is incredibly popular in Japan and for good reason. Japan has produced some of the best games in the world. Take a visit to a game center to try your hand at games new and old. Want to prepare yourself? There are a number of sites perfect for online casino beginners so you can get used to the format and game styles.

Relax in an onsen

These hot springs are a great option to leave all your cares behind, relax and leave feeling refreshed. An absolute must for anyone visiting Japan.

Stay in a ryokan

These traditional Japanese-style inns allow you to experience the culture first-hand and enjoy high-quality Japanese hospitality.

Spend the night in a temple

If you’re looking to do something extra special during your visit to Japan, opt for sleeping in a temple – you won’t regret it.

Sumo wrestling

Sumo wrestling isn’t as common as you might expect, with only six tournaments held a year. You may have to do some extra planning to catch one of them.

Tsukiji fish market

You’ll have to be prepared to get up early for this one (3 AM!). But, this is the best way to taste some of the freshest sushi the world has to offer, straight from the fishermen themselves.

What to taste

Sushi

Sushi is a delicacy that’s now known globally, but did you know about Sashimi? Similar to sushi, the fish is sliced into very small portions, but sushi is normally placed upon rice or wrapped up with wasabi.

Ramen

Whether it’s soy, salt or miso you prefer, ramen is a favourite in Japan. One thing to consider, however, is that in Japan it’s polite to ‘slurp’ your noodles!

Sake

If you’re after something a bit alcoholic, sake is your go-to. Depending on where in Japan you are, you might even be lucky enough to come across the dedicated sake bars for you to try out a whole variety.