Things to Do in Japan

Choose from 200 Fun Things to Do in Japan

Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji)

With its gleaming gold tiers reflected in the lake below and a backdrop of forests and twisted pines, the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji) is an enchanting sight. Dating back to the 14th century, the UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of Kyoto’s most popular attractions and among Japan’s most visited temples.

The Basics

You can’t enter the pavilion itself, but crowds come to admire its stunning architecture, enjoy views of the temple across the mirror pond, and stroll around the temple gardens.

Tours of Kyoto’s shrines and temples stop at the Golden Pavilion. A temple tour generally includes a visit to Fushimi Inari Shrine, Sagano Bamboo Forest, and Kyoto Cultural Forest. Alternatively, take the scenic route on a bike tour, visit with a professional photographer guide to maximize your chances of capturing postcard-worthy shots, or combine it with Kyoto attractions, such as Kyoto Imperial Palace and Nijo Castle. It’s also possible to visit on a day trip from Osaka or Nara, or as part of a multi-day Japan itinerary from Tokyo.

Things to Know Before You Go

There is an admission fee to enter the temple grounds.
Plan between 30 minutes and an hour to admire the temple, take photos, and explore the gardens.
A traditional Japanese teahouse is in the temple grounds, and souvenir shops, food vendors, and restaurants are just outside the gates.
The temple grounds and walkways are wheelchair accessible.

How to Get There

The Golden Pavilion, at the foot of Kinugasa Hill in northwest Kyoto, is a short taxi ride from downtown Kyoto. Bus 100 and 205 run there from Tokyo Station, and it’s a brief bus or taxi ride from the closest subway, Kitaoji Station (Karasuma Line).

When to Get There

The Golden Pavilion can get extremely crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. Get there before tour buses show up or before closing for the best chance of a crowd-free view. For the best photos, avoid the midday sun, visit in autumn for a colorful and interesting backdrop, or be there on one of the year’s coldest days to snap a shot of the snow-covered temple.

Golden Pavilion Architecture

The Golden Pavilion began as shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu’s 14th-century villa and transformed into a Zen Buddhist temple after his death. Numerous wars over the years have burned down and destroyed it, but the current temple, rebuilt in 1955, retains unique architectural details. Each floor showcases a different style: the Shinden-style first floor, the Bukke-style second floor, and the Chinese Zen hall-inspired top two floors.

Kita-ku Kinkaku-ji-cho, Kyoto 603-8361, Japan

Varies

From $ 50

Aokigahara Forest

The eerily quiet Aokigahara Forest calls out for lost souls. This forest, situated at the northwest base of Mount Fuji, has a long and storied history in Japanese mythology as a place of evil, demons, and paranormal activity. It’s not all ancient history, though; today, Aokigahara Forest sees more suicides per year than anywhere in the world other than the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco.

The forest has several nicknames, including the “Sea of Trees,” and – less flatteringly, “Suicide Forest.” Locals around the area say that people come into the forest for three reasons: hikers looking to see the splendid ice caves that dot the deep forest floor; people attracted to the stories and looking to see the carnage for themselves; and those people who do not plan to return. Suicide has become such a problem in the Aokigahara Forest that local authorizes have taken steps to curb it. There are signs throughout the forest encouraging those who have lost hope to reconsider, and security officers frequently patrol the park. The creepy Aokigahara Forest is a destination of mythological proportions.

Practical Info

Aokigahara Forest looks serene from above. The dense trees look up to the grand peak of Mount Fuji. Hikers should be extra careful here; large deposits of magnetic iron in the volcano’s soil are known to skew compasses, making orientation in the forest challenging. Despite the macabre lore, the Forest is a beautiful, unique hiking destination. From Tokyo, the Forest can be reached by the bullet train within a few hours.

Aokigahara Forest, Japan

Sunrise to Sunset

From $ 59

Akashi Kaikyo Bridge

The Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, also known as the Pearl Bridge, spans the Akashi Strait from Kobe to Iwaya on Awaji Island. Since its completion in 1998, it has held the record of having the world’s longest central span in any suspension bridge, measuring 1.2 miles (1.9 kilometers). In total, the bridge extends 2.4 miles (3.9 kilometers).

Located at the foot of the Kobe side, the Bridge Exhibition Center displays information on the planning and construction of the bridge, as well as on other suspension bridges around the globe. An elevator at the base of the Kobe side takes visitors to the Maiko Marine Promenade, a pedestrian hallway beneath the main platform that offers views of the bridge’s interior.

Bridge World tours take visitors to the very top of one of the 984-foot (300-meter) towers, and when the weather is right, the views extend all the way to Osaka.

Practical Info

Access the Maiko Marine Promenade and Bridge Exhibition Center by taking the JR Sanyo Line to Maiko Station or the Sanyo Railway main line to Maiko-Koen Station.

Japan

Daily

From $ 154

Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum

Just because it is a museum does not mean that the Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum is not functional. This operational sake brewery introduces visitors to the history and technical components of sake brewing. Located in the heart of an old sake brewing district, many of the buildings and breweries have been standing since the Edo era. Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum itself was founded in 1637, making it one of the region’s oldest breweries.

The charm of this Museum is its attention to detail. The brewery is in an old-fashioned, traditional sake house. Japanese songs about sake and sake brewing play throughout the museum. One of the main displays features over 6,000 brewing tools, considered by many to be cultural relics. Of course, the highlight of the tour is the sake tasting itself, where some of the area’s best is on display.

Practical Info

The Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum is located within a five-minute walk from Chushojima Station on the Keihan Subway Line. The museum is open from 9:30am to 4:30pm every day. It is closed on New Year holidays and for the O-Bon Festival in August. Admission fees are 300 yen ($3) for adults with discounts for children.

247 Minamihama-cho, Fushimi-ku, Kyoto 612-8660, Japan

300 Yen

From $ 77

Edo Wonderland

Step back in time to the Edo period (1603-1857), one of Japan's most intriguing eras, at Edo Wonderland. This theme park recreates history in impressive and accurate detail with a replica Edo period town, complete with actors in period costumes, ninja demonstrations, period-appropriate architecture and theater performances featuring courtesans and feudal lords. Visitors can eat at restaurants selling Edo-style food, rent and purchase costumes to wear in the town and buy souvenirs related to the time period.

Some of the most popular attractions in town include the Haunted Temple, decorated with spirits and demons found in Japanese folklore, and the House of Illusions, filled with trick mirrors. Kids and adults alike enjoy the Ninja Trick Maze, a challenging labyrinth, Edo Wonderland is entertaining as it is a history lesson on an era that came to define Japan.

Practical Info

From Tokyo, the nearest train stop is the Kinugawa-onsen Station, where you can get off and take a direct bus (20-minute ride) to Edo Wonderland for 410 yen ($4 USD). Edo Wonderland is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. throughout the year but has shortened hours (9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.) from December 1 through March 19. Admission costs 4,500 yen ($45USD) for adults, and there are discounts for children. Edo Wonderland is closed on Wednesdays.

470-2 Karakura, Nikko, Tochigi 321-2524, Japan

Daily 9am-5pm (December 1-March - 19 9:30am-4pm)

Adults 4,500 Yen

From $ 1,190

Disneyland Tokyo

Tokyo Disneyland opened to the public in 1983, making it the oldest Disney theme park outside of the United States. The park is modeled after the original in Anaheim, and you’ll find its rides and attractions spread out over seven themed areas.

World Bazaar serves as the entryway into the park and is similar to Main Street USA in other Magic Kingdom Parks, an area dominated by shops and restaurants. Adventureland is home to popular attractions like the Jungle Cruise and Pirates of the Caribbean. Westernland, similar to Frontierland in other parks, has an Old West theme with rides like Big Thunder Mountain and the Mark Twain Riverboat. Critter Country, one of the park’s smaller areas, has only one ride, Splash Mountain. Fantasyland, Toontown and Tomorrowland are all nearly carbon copies of the same areas in the US.

While most of the park’s attractions can be found at other Disney parks, Tokyo Disneyland has one unique ride, the Western River Railroad, which takes guests on a tour of Critter Country, Westernland and Adventureland. Tokyo DisneySea, a new park that opened in 2001, is exclusive to Japan.

Practical Info:

Routes to take by transit: JR Keiyo Line and JR Mushashino Line (at Maihama Station).

Tokyo Disneyland, Urayasu, Maihama, Chiba Prefecture, Japan

Daily 10am - 11pm.

Prices vary per age, time of day, and group.

From $ 81

Gion Corner

Gion Corner is a convenient place for art lovers to visit while in Kyoto, as it brings seven traditional Japanese performing arts together under one roof. Attending one of its nightly performances is an ideal way to spend an evening in the heart of the Gion entertainment district while learning about traditional Japanese culture.

The Basics

Experience seven refined performing arts through short performances at Gion Corner: Kyo-mai dance performed by geisha, tea ceremony, flower arrangement, koto musical performance, Gagaku court music, Kyogen theater, and Bunraku puppet theater. These are performed together in a “digest,” a very easy way of experiencing these arts, which would take much longer to see individually. In addition to the performances, Gion Corner has a Maiko Gallery, where visitors can see videos of dances and examine the hairpieces worn by geisha and maiko.

Visitors enjoy Gion Corner on day or night trips around Kyoto, independently or with a group. Some evening walking tours include a stop at Gion Corner, as well as a traditional Japanese dinner and drinking experience.

Things to Know Before You Go

Performances last 50 minutes.
Gion Corner offers tourist season discounts to encourage foreign visitors to experience Japan’s traditional arts. Check out the website for current details.
Gion Corner has its own app for visitors to learn more about traditional arts before their visit. It can be downloaded from the Gion Corner website.

How to Get There

It’s recommended to take public transport rather than drive to Gion Corner. It’s located in the geisha district of Gion, a popular area with tourists. It’s only a short walk from Gion, Gion-Shijo, and Kawaramachi stations.

When to Get There

From mid-March until the end of November, performances are held daily at 6pm and 7pm. From December until the second week of March, performances are only held Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings, as well as some public holidays. No performances are held on select public holidays, so check the schedule online before planning a visit.

Visit Maruyama Park

Kyoto’s large Maruyama Park is a short walk northeast of Gion Corner. The park is especially famous for its cherry blossoms in spring, but it’s a serene place to walk at any time of year. It’s full of shrines, trees, and water features. An ideal Kyoto itinerary includes a visit to the park in the late afternoon, an early dinner in Gion, and a cultural performance at Gion Corner.

Yasaka Hall, Hanamikoji, Kyoto 605-0074, Japan

Varies

From $ 11

Akasaka Palace (State Guest House)

Akasaka Palace—the only neobaroque building in Japan—was built in 1909 as the residence of the Crown Prince of Japan, but in 1975 was turned into the State Guest House. As a result, many very important international guests have stayed here and continue to do so. The central Tokyo palace is open to visitors when dignitaries aren’t in town.

The Basics

Akasaka Palace, a National Treasure of Japan, was built on the site of a large Edo-era (1603-1868) estate belonging to the Tokugawa clan. It is one of Japan’s largest and best remaining examples of a Meiji-era (1868-1912) building. A surprising bit of European aesthetic in Japan, the building and grounds are popular with locals and visitors alike.

The palace is often visited on sightseeing tours of the surrounding Akasaka area as well as some themed tours that focus on Japanese history and architecture. Independent visitors wanting to see the building can book tickets online for a specific time slot; you pay upon arrival. The grounds are free to explore and require no advance booking.

Things to Know Before You Go

Akasaka Palace is ideal for architecture and design enthusiasts.
While you may be able to get a ticket at the door, people with online reservations get priority during busy times.
There are different entrance fees to view the exterior only or the interior. Audio guides cost extra.
Photography inside the palace is not permitted.
Security lines at the building entrance can be long, so don’t bring large bags.
There are elevators and accessible restrooms, but the front and back garden areas are covered in stone and gravel, so are not so easy to navigate in a wheelchair.

How to Get There

The palace is located in the Akasaka area of central Tokyo, not far from Meiji Jingu, Shinjuku Park, and Roppongi. The closest train station is Yotsuya, on the JR Chuo Line. As with elsewhere in Tokyo, it’s advisable to take the train rather than a car or taxi.

When to Get There

The palace is open from 10am to 5pm Thursday through Tuesday except when foreign dignitaries are staying there. Visits—even prebooked ones—may be canceled at short notice if a dignitary is visiting.

Visit the Tokyo Imperial Palace

Royal watchers may want to combine a visit to the Akasaka Palace with the Tokyo Imperial Palace, whose inner grounds are open to the public only twice a year: on December 23 (Emperor’s Birthday) and January 2, when the Imperial Family makes appearances on their balcony. On the other 363 days of the year, you can get a guided tour of the palace grounds with prior booking, or free access to the East Gardens.

2-1-1 Motoakasaka, Minato, Tokyo 107-0051, Japan

Varies

From $ 60

21_21 Design Sight

Located in Tokyo Midtown within the city’s Art Triangle Roppongi, 21_21 Design Sight opened to the public in 2007 as a museum and exhibit space dedicated to all forms of visual design. The major art venue, housed within a concrete and glass structure, was the work of Pritzker Prize winner Ando Tadao in partnership with fashion designer Issey Miyake.

The name, inspired by the English term “20/20 vision,” was chosen to express the aim of the museum to generate and inspire forward-looking design. The museum houses rotating exhibitions and regularly hosts talks and workshops.

Practical Info

21_21 Design Sight is closed on Tuesdays and can be reached by taking the Oedo Line to Roppongi Station.

Tokyo, Kanto 〒107-6290, Japan

From $ 89

Ginkaku-ji Temple (Silver Pavilion)

The Silver Pavilion temple in Kyoto’s eastern mountains has no silver on it at all. Legend has it that when Shogun – or military ruler – Ashikaga Yoshimasa built his retirement villa in 1482 on the grounds where Ginkaku-ji stands today, he grandly stated he wanted the entire pavilion covered with silver to imitate the Golden Pavilion (Kinkakuji), built by his grandfather. The villa was converted to a Buddhist temple after Yoshimasa’s death in 1490, and the shining nickname persists today.

The circular route around the Silver Pavilion begins in a dry sand garden, named the “Sea of Silver Sand,” where a cone-like representation of Mt. Fuji has been dubbed the “Moon Viewing Platform.” The grounds open up to a moss garden featuring ponds with islands and short bridges, streams, and a variety of foliage. The path snakes up a hill leading to a viewing point of the entire temple grounds and the city beyond. The path comes full circle with up-close views of the Silver Pavilion itself. Unlike some of Kyoto’s famous temples, none of the buildings at the Silver Pavilion can be viewed from the inside.

Practical Info

City buses 5, 17, and 100 travel directly from Kyoto Station to Ginkaku-ji in about 35-40 minutes for 220 yen ($3USD) one way. Some pilgrims and visitors choose to walk along the Philosopher’s Path; the walk is 30-45 minutes from Nanzen-ji. The temple is open from 8:30am-5:00pm from March through November and 9:00am-4:30pm from December to February, and there are no closing days. The entrance fee is 500 yen ($5USD).

2 Ginkakujicho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan

8:30am - 5pm Mar - Nov and 9am-4:30pm Dec - Feb

500¥

From $ 588

Daitoku-ji Temple

A large walled temple complex, a visit to Daitoku-ji in northern Kyoto reveals ancient sub-temples and many traditional Zen gardens. The main Daitoku-ji temple sits on the eastern side of the grounds. This structure was built in 1319, although it was destroyed in a fire in the next century and rebuilt again in the 16th century. Also on the east side of the complex are the Butsuden Hall, Hatto Hall, Hojo Residence, and the famous Sanmon Gate featuring a statue of the tea-master, Sen no Rikyu.

There are many sub-temples within the complex, but only a few of these are open to the public on a regular basis, including Ryogen-in, Zuiho-in, Daisen-in, and Koto-in. Those particularly interested in Japanese gardens should not miss the beautiful Daisen-in rock gardens, which wrap around the temple building and date back to the beginning of the 16th century. Elsewhere, Koto-in was established in 1601 and features a garden considered to be a masterpiece in simplicity that is famous for its canopy of maple trees, which are particularly stunning in the fall.

There are a number ways to experience Kyoto’s ancient temples and traditional gardens, with various day trips from Osaka and Tokyo. One of the best ways to explore this side of Japan’s history and culture is on a Kyoto bike tour, where you can discover other religious shrines and temples in the area, such as Kinkakuji and the Kitano Tenmangu Temple.

Insider’s Tip: The Daitoku-ji temple complex is one of the best places in Japan to see such a variety of Zen gardens and to learn about Zen culture and architecture. Bear in mind though that Zen gardens are meant to be contemplated slowly, so a relaxed pace will mean you will appreciate the sub-temples and gardens in the complex more fully.

Practical Info

If not arriving as part of an organized tour, the best way to reach Daitoku-ji Temple is by taking the Karasuma subway line to Kitaoji Station. The complex is located around a 15-minute walk from here.

53 Murasakino Daitoku-ji-cho, Kyoto, Japan

Hours of sub-temples varies

Entry into sub-temples varies

From $ 91

Dotonbori

Dotonbori (also called Dotombori) is a bustling nightlife district in Osaka’s Minami area. It stretches along the Dtomborigawa River, with a multitude of small restaurants, bars, and neon lights that come alive after nightfall. An entertainment neighborhood, Dotonbori is famous for its varied cuisine and huge animated signs.

The Basics

Dotonbori provides a whole night’s worth of entertainment. Visit lively bars, peruse shops, and test your gaming skills at an arcade room. Numerous food options are available, ranging from street food stalls to sit-down restaurants offering both local delicacies and international cuisine.

Many Osaka walking tours include a visit to Dotonbori along with samplings of local street food. You can also experience the city’s quirky side on an Osaka GoKart tour featuring funny costume rentals, and cruise around the city dressed up as your favorite Mario Kart character. For a personalized experience, visit on a private city tour or see Dotonbori at your own pace on a hop-on, hop-off bus tour.

Things to Know Before You Go

Dotonbori is a must-see for foodies and nightlife seekers.
This is a good spot to try Japanese street food: look out for hot-off-the-grill yakitori kebabs, savory okonomiyaki pancakes, and deep-fried octopus balls.
Don’t miss the iconic Glico running man, a huge illuminated sign featuring the Glico candy company’s mascot.

How to Get There

Dotonbori is located in the Minami area, a 5-minute walk from Namba Station in downtown Osaka, Japan. Parking is hard to find, so public transportation is your best bet.

When to Get There

You can visit Dotonbori anytime, but the district comes alive at night, especially on Friday and Saturday. Spring and autumn are good times to visit Osaka, when the weather is typically clear and mild.

Dotonbori for Brunch

Dotonbori isn’t just a wild nightlife spot—it’s also one of the best places in Osaka to grab brunch. With restaurants offering spicy curries and sushi, Italian rooftop eateries, and cat cafés, this district has you covered.

Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka 542-0071, Japan

From $ 23

Arashiyama Park

For classic Kyoto in a nutshell, head to Arashiyama Park. The perennially popular area is rich in temples and a riot of fall colors in November, with pink cherry blossoms in April.

The park area embraces several major sights, including Tenryu-ji Temple, founded in 1339. The main temple of the Rinzai school of Zen Buddhism, Tenryu-ji is a UNESCO World Heritage Site surrounded by tranquil Zen gardens and bamboo forest.

There are many other temples in Arashiyama, including the Gio-ji, Jojakko-ji and Daikaku-ji temples. Another highlight is walking across the Moon Crossing Bridge, with views over to Mt Arashiyama.

Practical Info

Arashiyama Park is north-west of central Kyoto, by the Oi River. Buses run to Arashiyama from the city center, and the closest train station is JR Saga Arashiyama.

Arashiyama, Kyoto 616-8385, Japan

Open daily

Free

From $ 41

Akihabara

Akihabara, also called Akihabara Electric Town, is the go-to district in Tokyo for electronics, anime and manga products. Hundreds of electronics stores line the neighborhood streets, selling everything from computer parts to home goods and ranging in size from small stalls to mainstream chains. North of Akihabara Station sit stores selling video games, popular manga comic books, card games, costumes and souvenirs.

In recent years, Akihabara has become famous for its "otaku" culture, or diehard anime and manga fans. It is a great place to people-watch and see "cosplay," short for costume play, in which fans dress up as their favorite characters in anime and manga. Numerous maid cafes are found in this area as well, where you’ll find a dining experience in which the servers dress as maids and other characters. The streets of Akihabara are decorated with manga and anime images, and the neighborhood is designed to make visitors feel as if they are wandering through an actual comic or animated production.

Practical Info

Chuo Dori serves as the main street through the commercial Akihabara district. This street is closed to vehicles from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. from October through March and until 6 p.m. from April through September. Many of the electronics sold in Akihabara are intended for use in Japan only due to the voltage requirements and other technical differentiators. Foreigners who make purchases over 10,000 yen ($100 USD) may be required to show a passport. Akihabara Station can be reached on the JR Yamanote, Keihin-Tohoku and Sobu lines, while it can also be accessed from the Tsukuba Express and the Hibiya subway line.

Akihabara, Tokyo, Japan

From $ 54

America Mura

If you want to put your finger on the pulse of Osaka street culture, plan to spend an evening wandering the streets of America Mura, a district near Shinsaibashi. In the 1970s, the neighborhood began filling up with shops selling imported goods from the United States, earning it the name America Mura, or “American Village.”

Today, America Mura serves as one of Osaka’s prime fashion centers, a place where the city’s youth congregates, often sporting some of Japan’s more creative fashions. A collection of record stores, vintage clothing shops and boutiques sell a little bit of everything, from J-pop club wear to gothic styles, but the main appeal of the area is the opportunity it provides for people-watching.

America Mura is at its most lively at night, when the bars, clubs, live music venues and street food stalls open up. Visitors will find takoyaki (octopus balls), a popular Osaka street food, throughout the neighborhood.

Practical Info

Shinsaibashi Station is the closest subway station to America Mura, only about a three-minute walk away. The site can also be reached by way of a seven-minute walk from Namba Station.

Shinsaibashi District, Osaka, Japan

From $ 85

Abeno Harukas

At 984 feet tall (300 m), Abeno Harukas takes the coveted superlative of Japan's highest skyscraper, narrowly rising above the former title holder, the Yokohama Landmark Tower. It serves as a railway terminal for Osaka's Kintetsu Minami-Osaka Line.

The name Abeno Harukas translates to a phrase meaning "to brighten, to clear up," symbolizing the unobstructed view visitors will see from the top. The behemoth skyscraper boasts over 300,000 square feet of floor space which house offices, commercial shops, restaurants, a hotel, a museum, a garden, and a three-story observatory on the top floors. Osaka visitors will be delighted by the view from the observation deck at night, especially, when the city is lit up below.

Practical Info

The Abeno Harukas Skyscraper is located in Osaka's southern commercial district. Visitors will need to purchase a ticket to access the 60th floor observation deck, but the 16th floor air garden is free.

1-1-43 Abenosuji, Abeno-ku, Osaka, Japan

10am–8:30pm daily

From $ 13

Ginza Shopping District

With its neon lights, towering department stores, and trendy nightclubs, Tokyo’s upscale shopping district of Ginza is a chic, cosmopolitan adventure. You can catch a Kabuki performance, check out the latest Japanese film or art exhibition, and dine at some of Tokyo’s best restaurants. And, then, of course, there’s the shopping.

The Basics

Even if you don’t have the money to splash around at such exclusive stores as Louis Vuitton, Prada, and Chanel, you can still enjoy window shopping at its finest. Highlights include the Sony Building and Hakuhinkan Toy Park. Another must-see attraction is the Wako Department Store, a neo-Renaissance-style building known for its impressive clock tower. You could easily spend hours wandering the area’s other prestigious department stores, such as Mitsukoshi and Matsuya.

Ginza is also a great dining destination, and guided tours of the area tend to focus on its food scene. Tours typically visit neighborhood pubs, popular with locals getting off work, and exquisite confectionery and pastry shops. Another specialized option is an architecture-focused tour. General sightseeing tours of Tokyo (private or group) also typically include a stroll through Ginza.

Things to Know Before You Go

Ginza is a must-visit for those with an interest in contemporary Japanese culture.
The neighborhood is also a great destination for entertainment. The Kabuki-za Theater presents traditional Kabuki theater daily.
The side streets of Ginza are home to many art galleries.
The department store food halls generously hand out samples, making it easy to fill up cost-free.

How to Get There

Located in Tokyo’s Chuo ward, Ginza is centrally located and easily accessible by subway or taxi. It is served by Ginza station on Tokyo Metro’s Hibiya, Ginza, and Marunouchi lines, as well as Ginza Itchome station on the Yurakucho line and Higashi Ginza station on the Hibaya and Toei Asakusa lines.

When to Get There

Ginza is at its most atmospheric in the evening, when neon lights up the dark sky and the streets are filled with after-work revelers. However, possibly the best time to visit is on Saturday or Sunday, between noon and 5pm, when the main street through Ginza is closed to vehicles, creating Hokōsha Tengoku (“pedestrian heaven”).

Silver Mint

From the 17th to 19th century, the Ginza district was the site of a silver-coin mint (Ginza translates as "silver mint"). After the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923, the area evolved as an upmarket shopping district. Today, 10 square feet (1 square meter) of land in the center is worth more than 10 million yen (more than $85,000).

Chuo, Tokyo 103-8001, Japan

Free

From $ 45

Ameyoko Shopping Street

Ameyoko Shopping Street, short for Ameya Yokocho (candy store alley), is one of Japan’s most popular shopping streets, famous throughout Tokyo for its cheap prices and the wide variety of products on offer.

As the name suggests, the alley was once filled with candy shops. In the years following World War II, candy shops gave way to black market stalls selling illegally imported American goods. Today, you won’t find much of either. What you will find is a range of clothing, accessories, cosmetics, spices and foods in more than 400 shops. For many locals, the New Year season means taking a shopping trip to Ameyoko to pick up traditional New Year’s foods like fish cakes, crab and roe.

Even if you’re not in the market for Japanese food products, a stroll down Ameyoko Shopping Street still makes for an enjoyable experience. Soak up the atmosphere, pick up some souvenirs and sample some traditional street snacks from the local vendors.

Japan

From $ 50

Byodo-in Temple

If you think this classic furled-roof temple looks familiar, take a look at a 10-yen coin, and you’ll see why. One of Japan's most famous temples, and a World Heritage Site, the image of its 11th century Phoenix Hall graces the coin and the 10,000-yen note.

The reason why this Buddhist temple is so famous is because it is one of the few remaining examples of Heian-era architecture, a textbook example of Japanese perfection.

Take a tour to see the famous statue of Amida and 42 Bodhisattvas from the 11th century. The surrounding gardens are also justly famous, with tranquil water gardens reflecting the temple's surrounding pines.

Practical Info

Byōdō-in is in Uji, 18 km (11 mi) from central Kyoto on its southeastern outskirts. Take a tour to get here or ride the train to Keihan Uji Station (around a 40 minute trip).

Uji-shi Uji renge, Kyoto 611-0021, Japan

Open daily 9am - 5pm (until 4pm in Winter)

¥600; ¥500 more for admission to Phoenix Hall

From $ 81

Danjo Garan Temple

The Danjo Garan is the central temple complex of Japan's sacred Mt Koya temple town, and an UNESCO World Heritage Site. The complex is comprised of about 20 buildings, including several temples, the ceremonial Kondo Hall, and a 147-foot (49-meter) red pagoda housing five statues of the seated Buddha. The massive pagoda, called The Great Stupa, has been home to practicing monks for over 1,000 years, and the Danjo Garan as a whole is revered as the center of Shingon Buddhism.

While Mt Koya was once a hard-to-reach destination, today you can visit the sacred location and its temples on a day trip or overnight visit from Osaka. To get the most out of your visit, consider touring Danjo Garan Temple and Okunoin graveyard on a two-day trip that includes an overnight stay in a temple with a hot spring.

Practical Info

The Garan complex is open daily from 8:30am to 5pm. It is free to wander, but you’ll have to pay a small entrance fee to enter The Great Stupa. Admission is JPY 200.

The complex is located in Koyasan town center on Mt Koya, which is about a two-hour drive from Osaka. The site is accessible by rail, cable car and bus.

Did you know? According to local legend, the founder of Shingon Buddhism threw a ceremonial tool from his location in China to determine the location of his religion's headquarters. When he returned to Japan, he found his tool caught in a pine tree and began to build Danjo Garan Temple.

152 Koya-san, Koya-cho, Japan

8:30am–5pm

¥200

From $ 225