From ancient Buddhist temples and towering skyscrapers to majestic mountains and lovely beaches, Japan has no shortage of things to do. You may find it challenging to decide exactly what to prioritise in one trip – but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
Keep reading to discover 12 things to do and see in Japan in 2025.
1. Tour the temples of Mount Koya
As the spot where Kobo Daishi set up shop in the 9th century, Mount Koya is often considered the headquarters and birthplace of Shingon Buddhism.
Kobo Daishi is one of the most significant religious figures in Japan’s history, and you can learn more about this intriguing past at the massive temple complex on Mount Koya. This complex, called the Garan temples, has over 100 temples and is one of the most sacred sites in Japan. You can also stay overnight in the temple lodgings, which is definitely one of Japan’s most unique spiritual experiences.
2. Wander through the Kawachi Wisteria Garden
With long tunnels of blooming wisteria flowers, the Kawachi Wisteria Garden is a must-do while visiting Japan. The large trees form flower domes and tunnels, making this botanical garden feel almost otherworldly.
After strolling through the tunnels, enjoy some of the most incredible views in the country from the hillside garden. Here, you can marvel at the massive field of flowers and rolling hills in the distance.
3. Explore the Imperial Palace
Formerly known as the Edo Castle, the Imperial Palace is one of Japan’s most historically significant buildings. This palace was the former residence of the Tokugawa Shogun and the Royal Family, and there’s a lot to learn about this structure while you’re here. Although you can’t tour the buildings during your visit, the eastern gardens and palace grounds have a lot to offer.
4. Visit Sensoji Temple
Not only is Sensoji Temple the oldest temple in Tokyo, but it is also one of Japan’s most famous temples. This structure was built to help protect Tokyo from invaders throughout history and was also a personal residence for the emperor of Japan. After you explore the temple and the grounds, head to the nearby shopping street to browse local Japanese goods and treats.
5. Hike Mount Fuji
It’s no secret that Mount Fuji is Japan’s most popular and sacred mountain. It has influenced Japanese culture, inspired artists throughout time, and has been worshipped for thousands of years.
Today, this mountain is a major hub for hiking and outdoor exploration. Some of the best trails on this mountain include Subashiri, Yoshida, Gotemba, and Fujinomiya. Remember that the hiking season starts in July and ends in September.
6. Marvel at the Himeji Castle
If you want to feel like a character in a real-life fairytale, visit the Himeji Castle, considered the most beautiful castle out of Japan’s 12 original castles. Also known as the White Heron Castle, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has an impressive size and stunning architecture that will impress any architecture enthusiast. It’s also particularly lovely in the spring, surrounded by gardens filled with blooming cherry blossoms.
7. Sample incredible sushi
While Japan has so many incredible local foods, sushi, the most popular food in Japan, should be at the top of your list. Check out Sushi Dai, one of the country’s best sushi restaurants. Because all of this restaurant’s ingredients are sourced from the downstairs fish market, this eatery is extremely popular. Sushi Dai has options for kids and people who don’t eat raw fish, so everyone is welcome.
8. Explore the Hakone Open-Air Museum
One of the best things to do in Japan on a warm day is to visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum. Throughout the grounds, you’ll enjoy the stunning landscape and the sculptures created by Japanese and international artists. There are also different exhibits based on several artists, including Picasso. This is a great place to spend the day if you love art and nature.
9. Stay at a capsule hotel
Capsule hotels were invented in Japan, so it only makes sense to spend the night in one during a trip to Japan. Most of these hotels have common spaces and shared bathrooms but still offer quite a bit of privacy. With just a tiny sleeping pod and a place to stash your luggage, this is a Japanese must-do.
One of the coolest capsule hotels is Book and Bed, where the sleeping pods are nestled into a bookcase. Grab a book, grab a warm drink, and cosy up for a great night of sleep.
10. Spend a day at Sunayama Beach
As an island country, Japan has some fantastic beaches. One of the best places to enjoy the sand and sun is Sunayama Beach. Translating to “mountain beach,” Sunayama Beach is situated on the largest of the Miyako Islands, made of an elevated coral reef. There are also several modern amenities on this beach, so you could easily spend an entire day lounging on the sand or splashing in the water.
11. Spend the night in a ryokan
If a capsule hotel isn’t your thing, a great alternative is to visit and dine at a ryokan, also known as a traditional Japanese inn. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted with green tea in a Tatami mat room – an elegant, minimalist space with a table and low chairs.
Breakfast and dinner served are typically included in the price of your visit. These massive, multi-course meals are a Ryokan speciality and might be the best food you have during your entire holiday in Japan! If you have dietary restrictions, let the ryokan staff know in advance (they can usually accommodate vegans and vegetarians).
12. Meditate at a Zen Garden
Most Zen Buddhist temples feature landscape gardens created from rock and gravel, giving the illusion of flowing water. These gardens are some of the most tranquil places in Japan and are perfect for a moment of meditation.
Kyoto is one of the best places in Japan to find a Zen temple. While Ryoan-Ji Temple is the most famous, it’s also the most crowded. If you’re here in the spring, visit the gardens at Kennin-Ji and Kodai-Ji, which will be blooming with cherry blossoms.
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