Ultimate Japan Bucket List: 10 Best Things to do in Japan

This ultimate Japan bucket list covers the very best landmarks, landscapes, attractions and cities, so you can create a once in a lifetime trip.

Dreaming of a trip to Japan? Get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the Land of the Rising Sun! From ancient temples to futuristic cities, Japan offers a treasure trove of experiences for every traveller.

Whether you’re a culture vulture, foodie, or thrill-seeker, this ultimate bucket list has got you covered. We’ve rounded up the absolute must-sees and must-dos, so make sure to take down notes or bookmark this page so you can start planning your Japan itinerary!

Japan Bucket List

1. Explore and Go Shopping in Tokyo

Start your journey in the largest city in the world and your Japan bucket list; there is so much to see and do in your Tokyo itinerary. This is where you’ll be impressed with the cutting-edge technology and vibrant energy coming from every corner.

With countless stores and restaurants, you won’t even know which one to stop at! Make sure to take advantage of the tax-free shopping for tourists at stores like Don Quijote and local drugstores. 

You also can’t miss the chance to witness the organised chaos of the Shibuya Crossing, often dubbed the world’s busiest intersection and one of the best free things to do in Tokyo.

And right next to it, you can find the famous statue of Hachiko (dog-lovers will definitely need a photo op here). We love the nearby Nintendo and Pokemon store too!

2. Find Zen in Kyoto’s Ancient Temples

For a glimpse into Japan’s rich past, head to Kyoto next on this Japan bucket list; one of the most beautiful cities in Japan. The city is home to an astounding 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the magnificent golden pavilion of Kinkaku-ji and the serene Zen rock garden of Ryoan-ji. Wander through the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where towering green stalks create an other-worldly atmosphere. 

You can also participate in the art of chanoyu, the Japanese tea ceremony. This centuries-old tradition is more than just sipping tea; it’s a meditative practice that embodies harmony, respect, purity, and tranquillity.

Watch as the tea master gracefully prepares matcha, and savour the bitter-sweet flavour whilst appreciating the beauty of the carefully chosen utensils and surroundings.

3. Hit the Slopes in Niseko

For winter sports enthusiasts planning a Japan bucket list, a trip to Niseko is an absolute must. This world-renowned ski resort boasts some of the best powder snow in the world, making it a paradise for skiers and snowboarders.

With a variety of runs suitable for all skill levels, you’ll find yourself carving up the slopes in no time. Don’t fancy lugging your gear? No worries! There are plenty of ski chalets in Japan that offer equipment rentals and cosy accommodation. 

4. Gaze Upon Mount Fuji’s Majestic Presence

No trip to Japan is complete without catching a glimpse of the iconic Mount Fuji, one of the most romantic places in Japan and another must on your Japan bucket list.

Whether you’re admiring it from afar or embarking on a challenging hike to its summit, this sacred, mountain is sure to leave you in awe.

For the best views, visit the Fuji Five Lakes region or take a dip in an onsen with Fuji as your backdrop. You can also visit the Chureito Pagoda to get a good vantage point and recreate iconic photos of Mt. Fuji to post on your social media!

5. Experience the Magic of Sakura (Cherry Blossom) Season

The cherry blossom season in Japan is a highly anticipated event, celebrated with traditional hanami (flower viewing) parties where revellers gather beneath the canopies of blooming trees to admire their ephemeral splendour.

The first blooms typically grace Tokyo in late March, with the blossoms reaching their peak a week or so later, so spend time exploring the best parks in Tokyo whilst you’re here.

Kyoto follows suit a few days after Tokyo, painting the ancient city with a romantic pink hue. Seeing the delicate pink petals of the cherry blossoms unfurl in full bloom across Japan’s parks and streets is an experience you definitely can’t miss in this lifetime. 

6. Be a Ninja for A Day in Kanazawa

Fancy being a ninja for the day? Then you’ll want to head to Kanazawa, a coastal city that’s an absolute must for ninja enthusiasts and a fun place on your Japan bucket list. It’s home to the legendary Myoryuji Ninja Temple, featuring all sorts of hidden rooms, secret passageways and devious traps to bamboozle unwanted guests. 

Kanazawa also boasts the incredible Ninja Weapon Museum. Here you can get up close with real weapons used by ninjas and samurai back in the day. You can even try your hand at throwing ninja stars too!

If you don’t have time to stop by Kanazawa, you can also visit the Samurai Ninja Museum in Kyoto, where you can sign up for a samurai class and learn the ancient warrior techniques firsthand. 

7. Eat Your Way Through Japan’s Food Scene

A bowl of ramen a day keeps the doctor away when you’re in Japan! No, seriously. It’s absolutely delicious, and you definitely can not miss out on indulging in all of Japan’s flavourful cuisine.

From melt-in-your-mouth sushi to crispy karaage, to elegant kaiseki dinners, Japan is a foodie paradise with flavors and experiences to tantalize every taste bud; so make sure to try the best food in Japan!

Some must-try specialties (other than those mentioned above) are okonomiyaki, takoyaki and tempura… and don’t forget to try all those crazy Kit Kat flavours! They also make for an awesome souvenir to take back home.

8. Pet the Friendly Deer at Nara Park

Nara is an absolute must-visit destination for anyone touring Japan. As you stroll through the grounds of the famous Todai-ji Temple, you’ll be delighted to encounter friendly deer roaming about freely.

These gentle creatures are a protected national treasure and have become an iconic symbol of the city.

You can purchase special deer crackers to feed these eager four-legged residents up close.  Just be mindful not to tease them and always let them sniff your hand before offering the crackers.

9. Cuddle Up with Critters at an Animal Café

Animal cafes are a huge craze in Japan, letting you chill with cute critters while grabbing a coffee.

Popular options include owl cafes with majestic birds of prey, pig cafes with miniature pigs snorting in every direction, capybara cafes with the chillest mammal you’ll ever come across, and classic cat cafes with lazy lounging kitties. The animals are well-trained and chill, so you can get up close for a totally unique experience.

Just be respectful of the critters and you’ll have an amazing time getting up close and personal with Japan’s cutest café residents.

10. Experience the Magical Theme Parks of Japan

Forget adulting for a day and instead, fuel your inner child and visit all of Japan’s theme parks! Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea are definitely classics, but Osaka’s Universal Studios Japan is next-level awesome.

Seriously, who doesn’t want to stroll through Super Nintendo World or grab a butterbeer in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter? These parks are packed with thrilling rides, mind-blowing tech, and enough pure, unadulterated fun to make you forget all your troubles.

You can buy their super passes so you can skip waiting in line. But if you’re on a budget, just make sure you’re prepared to wait in line.

So there you have it, your ultimate Japan bucket list! There’s actually still so much more you can do in the Land of the Rising Sun, but for now, we’ll leave you with that. Stay tuned for more guides about visiting Japan!

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