8 Activity you should try in Japan

Japan isn’t just about sightseeing—it’s about experiencing the culture with all your senses.

From seasonal walks to late-night bar hopping, here are eight activities that will make your trip unforgettable.

1. Seasonal Walks 🌸🍧🍁❄️

Japan has four distinct seasons, and each one transforms the scenery.

• Spring – Walk under blooming cherry blossoms. It feels like walking in a dream.
• Summer – Enjoy shaved ice while listening to the soft sound of furin (Japanese wind chimes).
• Autumn – Take in the breathtaking fall foliage.
• Winter – See cities covered in snow, or warm up in an onsen (hot spring).

Every season feels like a different Japan.

2. Wear a Kimono on the Streets 👘

In Tokyo, Kyoto, and many other cities, you can rent a kimono and walk around historical streets.
Eat Japanese sweets, take lots of photos, and feel like you’ve stepped into another era.

Just a tip: avoid July and August—it’s hot, humid, and wearing a kimono might feel like being in a sauna.

3. Matcha-Making Experience 🍵

Have you ever whisked matcha the traditional way?
You’ll learn not just the recipe, but also the graceful movements and history behind it.

Once you master it, bring a matcha set and powder home—you can relive your Japan trip every morning with a cup of green tea.

4. Sushi-Making Class 🍣

Sushi isn’t just rice with raw fish on top—it’s an art.

In a class, you’ll learn how to season sushi rice, cut fish properly, and shape beautiful nigiri.
You don’t need special ingredients—since learning, I’ve made sushi myself in Australia and Canada.

Totally worth the experience!

5. Play at a Japanese Game Center 🎮

Game centers here are huge playgrounds for all ages.

Try crane games, rhythm games, punching machines, or capsule toy machines (gacha).
Be careful—it’s easy to lose track of time and money.

6. Sing at Karaoke 🎤

Karaoke in Japan is legendary.

Even if you don’t know Japanese songs, don’t worry—there’s a huge selection of English tracks too.

It’s fun with friends, family, or even solo (yes, solo karaoke is a thing here!).

7. Visit a Concept Café ☕✨

Japan is full of themed cafés—from cute animal cafés to anime cafés to over-the-top maid cafés.

They’re weird, wonderful, and something you can only truly experience in Japan.

8. Bar Hopping Japanese-Style 🍶🍺🍸

Japanese bars (izakaya) are cozy, lively, and full of delicious surprises.

Sure, try Japanese beer and sake—but don’t skip the cocktails.
The small plates (otsumami) are perfect for pairing with drinks.

If you can, try a local bar-hopping tour—it’s the best way to discover hidden gems.