Choose from 200 Fun Things to Do in Japan
ShowingFilter 61-80 of 200 listings.
Nezu Museum
Opened in 1940, this incredible museum located in the heart of Tokyo is home to an impressive collection of Japanese, Chinese and Korean art. Hundreds of antiques line the gallery halls—a sample of the even more expansive collection, which is combed through for monthly shifts in public art displays.
In addition to the rich artistic history of these Asian artifcats, travelers can explore the stone paths of the well-manicured grounds outside the galleries, where teahouses, sculptures and a glass-walled café designed by Kuma Kengo round out the museum experience.
Practical Info
The museum is located in the Minato district of Tokyo, just a short walk from Exit A5 of Omotesando entrance of the train station. It is open daily from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. It is 1000 yen for adults and 800 yen for students to enter, and admission to special exhibits is available for an additional fee.
Address: Minamiaoyama, 6 Chome−5−1, Tokyo, Minato,, Japan
Hours: Tues-Sun 10am-5pm
Admission: Adult 1000 yen, Student 800 yen
From $ 89
Kenroku-en Garden
Widely considered one of the most beautiful gardens in Japan, Kenroku-en Garden in Kanazawa began in the seventeenth century as a private garden for Kaga feudal lords. The garden first opened to the public in 1874 and was designated a National Site of Scenic Beauty in 1922 and upgraded to a National Site of Special Scenic Beauty in 1985.
In traditional Chinese gardening, there are said to be six attributes that make up the ideal garden landscape. Kenroku-en translates to ‘garden of six attributes,’ claiming to incorporate spaciousness, seclusion, artifice, antiquity, water features and panoramas into this single green space.
A 90-minute strolling course takes visitors past most of the park’s points of interest, including several ponds, an observation deck, a stone lantern, one of Japan’s oldest fountains and a couple of traditional tea houses. Each season brings a new look to the garden, with spring and its accompanying plum and cherry blossoms the most popular.
Practical Info
Kenroku-en Garden is open throughout the year and charges an admission fee. The garden is accessible via a 15-minute bus ride from Kanazawa Station.
Address: 1 Kenrokumachi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
Admission: Adults 310 yen, 6-18 years 100 yen, 65+ free
From $ 30
Nijo Castle
UNESCO World Heritage Site Nijo Castle, a fortified complex dating from 1603, was the official residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first Tokugawa shogun. Walk in the pretty gardens or visit Ninomaru Palace to see fine Japanese artworks. It’s one of the most popular attractions in Kyoto, a city already full of must-visit attractions.
The Basics
Inside the grounds of Nijo Castle are two palaces, Ninomaru and Honmaru, although only Ninomaru is open to visitors. The palaces are said to be the best-surviving examples of castle palace architecture from Japan's feudal era. Inside Ninomaru Palace are beautiful Japanese artworks, including about 3,000 folding screens and ceilings painted with gold leaf. The palace gardens, landscaped in a traditional Japanese style, are a peaceful place to walk. Many seasonal flowers bloom there, including camellias, azaleas, and maples.
Organized tours of Kyoto regularly include Nijo Castle on their itineraries, along with other highlights, such as the Golden Pavilion, Kiyomizu Temple, and the Imperial Palace. Nijo Castle is quite near the Imperial Palace, so it’s easy to visit them together.
Things to Know Before You Go
- An admission fee is charged to enter the Nijo Castle grounds.
- English audio guides and in-person guided tours are available.
- Although the Honmaru Palace is not usually open, visitors can walk around the Honmaru Gardens and climb the stone tower for views of the palace and gardens.
How to Get There
The closest train station to Nijo Castle is Nijojo-mae on the Tozai line. Or, get there by bus. From Kyoto Station, take Kyoto City Bus numbers 9, 50 or 101, or from Shijo Kawaramachi, take Kyoto City Bus number 12.
When to Get There
The grounds are open from 8:45am until 5pm, with last admission at 4pm. The Ninomaru Palace is open from 9am until 4pm. The castle is closed on Tuesdays in January, July, August, and December, and between December 26 and January 4.
Tokugawa Ieyasu’s Grave at Nikko
Travelers interested in the history surrounding Tokugawa Ieyasu, who lived in Nijo Castle, should visit his memorial in Nikko. This town in the mountains in Tochigi Prefecture is easily accessible on a day trip from Tokyo. The Toshogu Memorial and other temples here, dating from the early 17th century, are some of the finest traditional architecture in Japan and are a UNESCO-listed site.
Address: Nijo-dori Horikawa, Kyoto 604-8235, Japan
Admission: Varies
From $ 34
Kondoi Beach
Stationed on the west coast of Taketomi Island, Kondoi Beach offers travelers unlimited access to vast turquoise waters and perfect white sandy shores. Kondoi is home to some of the best snorkeling in the area, too—but visitors say it all comes at a price. Travelers looking to unwind on the shores of Kondoi should be ready to shell out 1500 yen per day for access to snorkels, masks and beach umbrellas. And while tourists say the beach is quiet, peaceful and perfect for catching sunsets, most agree that greater Okinawa offers other equally beautiful options at more budget-friendly prices.
Practical Info
Taketomi Island is accessible by boat only. Travelers can catch the Anei Kanko or Yaeyama Kanko ferries from Ishigaki.
Address: Taketomi Island, Japan
From $ 34
Norn Minakami Ski Area
Located less than two hours outside Tokyo, Norn Minakami Ski Area operates four lifts servicing a variety of slopes suitable for skiers of all levels. About 20 percent of the area’s terrain is suitable for advanced skiers, while a newer family course has an average slope decline of only 13 degrees, making it perfect for beginners.
Skiers at Norn also enjoy early morning lift operation, as well as night skiing — an option not available at many resorts in the Tokyo area. Norn Minakami also operates a ski and snowboard school, rental facilities, a snow park and a snow play area for children. Minakami is famous for its hot springs, ideal for unwinding after a day on the slopes.
Practical Info
To get to Norn Minakami Ski Area using public transportation, take a train from Tokyo Station to Joumou-Kogen Station, where a free shuttle takes visitors to the resort.
Address: 479-139 Terama, Minakami, Gunma Prefecture, Japan
Hours: 8:00am to 10:00pm weekdays and 8:00am to midnight weekends
Admission: 4,500 yen
From $ 99
Kiyomizu Temple
Kiyomizu Temple (Kiyomizu-dera) is one of Japan’s oldest and most eye-catching Buddhist temples. Its classic red pagoda has been influential to Japanese architecture for centuries. Located on a hilltop, Kiyomizu Temple is also worth visiting for its sweeping views over Kyoto.
The Basics
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kiyomizu Temple should not be missed when visiting Kyoto. Although originally built in 798, most of the current buildings date from the 17th and 18th centuries because of repeated fires throughout the years. Lovely gardens and shrines surround Kiyomizu Temple, and the stage just off the Main Hall is famous for its city views.
Kiyomizu Temple is a must-see attraction in Kyoto, so most organized tours include it on their itineraries. It’s also easily accessed via public transport. The complex offers tours of the temple and grounds conducted by a Buddhist priest.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Although the temple is part way up Mount Otowa, it is fully wheelchair accessible, with no-step paths and special vehicle access via the emergency road entrance to save climbing the steps.
- The temple grounds are large, with 30 buildings and gardens to stroll through. While it’s possible to visit quickly, if you’re trying to see many highlights of Kyoto in a short time, it’s also worth spending a couple of hours here.
- There is a small admission charge.
How to Get There
Kiyomizu Temple is best reached by bus. From Kyoto Station, catch City Bus no. 206 or 100 (on Saturdays and holidays, take the Kyoto Bus no. 18) and get off at Gojozaka and walk east. Buses are also available from Hankyu Kawaramachi, Keihan Gion-Shijo, and Keihan Shichijo stations. There are no parking lots at the temple, and nearby lots tend to get crowded quickly due to the temple’s popularity.
When to Get There
The temple is open every day from 6am until 6pm or 6:30pm, depending on the season. Special night-viewing sessions are also organized in each season, when the temple remains open until 9pm. Every season at Kiyomizu Temple offers a different experience: the temple is surrounded by snow in winter, blossoms in spring, greenery in summer, and fiery leaves in fall.
Stage on a Cliff
The Main Hall of Kiyomizu Temple is built upon a steep cliff, and the stage that hangs out in front offers amazing views of Kyoto. While this may seem like a precarious perch, especially in an earthquake-prone country, the platform has survived since 1633. The traditional construction method consists of 18 wooden pillars and uses no nails.
Address: Kiyomizu Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto 605-0862, Japan
Admission: Varies
From $ 18
Nipponbashi
Flanked by neon-lit signs and store fronts , the narrow streets of Nipponbashi, also known as “Den Den Town,” cater to shoppers interested in electronics and comics. Multitudes of shops selling anime, manga, video games, action figures, tools, electronic equipment, and even furniture compete for business among Osaka’s young people. The commercial district was once known for second-hand stores. Today, it is often compared to Tokyo’s famous Akihabara Electric Town.
Unlike shopping in the majority of Japan, it is acceptable to negotiate prices in Nipponbashi. Some of the shops even sell tax- and duty-free items. Some of the more popular, unique stores include Super Potato, which specializes in retro video games, and Gee! Store, the place to find a wide variety of costumes and other clothing. Alongside endless entertainment shopping, Nipponbashi boasts a wide variety of cafes and restaurants.
Practical Info
Nipponbashi is accessible by a one-minute walk from the Ebisucho Station on Osaka’s Sakaisuji Line or a five-minute walk from Nipponbashi Station on the Kintetsu Line. The shopping district is centered along Sakaisuji Avenue. Hours of operation vary by individual store and restaurant. The area is best explored on foot.
Address: Naniwa-ku, Osaka, Japan
From $ 27
Nishi Hongan-ji
While many of Kyoto’s temples provide insight into ancient Japanese Buddhist history, few showcase contemporary movements. That’s what makes Nishi Hongan-ji unique. Built in the late 16th-century, the temple remains today an important landmark for modern Japanese Buddhism. Located in the center of Kyoto, the large temple and its sibling-temple, Higashi Hongan-ji, represent two factions of the Jodo Shinshu sect of Buddhism.
The three main attractions on the temple grounds include Goeido Hall, Amidado Hall, and the temple gardens. Goeido Hall is dedicated to the sect’s founder, and Amidado Hall to the Amida Buddha – the most important Buddha in Jodo-Shin Buddhism. Cultural treasures, including surviving masterpieces of architecture, are displayed in these main halls. The Temple garden is known as a “dry” garden, utilizing stones, white sand, trees, and plants to symbolize elements of nature such as mountains, rivers, and the ocean.
The three main attractions on the temple grounds include Goeido Hall, Amidado Hall, and the temple gardens. Goeido Hall is dedicated to the sect’s founder, and Amidado Hall to the Amida Buddha – the most important Buddha in Jodo-Shin Buddhism. Cultural treasures, including surviving masterpieces of architecture, are displayed in these main halls. The Temple garden is known as a “dry” garden, utilizing stones, white sand, trees, and plants to symbolize elements of nature such as mountains, rivers, and the ocean.
Practical Info
The temple can be reached on foot from Kyoto Station within 10-15 minutes. One of the main halls of the temple, Amida Hall, is undergoing renovations until 2015. Scaffolding covers the structure. Nishi Hongan-ji is open during daylight hours year-round, and there is no entrance fee.
Address: Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan
From $ 60
Rikugien Garden
Travelers with only enough time to visit one of Tokyo’s many traditional Japanese gardens should seriously consider Rikugien Garden, widely considered the most beautiful, not just for its impeccable landscaping, but also for its views, free of Tokyo’s omnipresent skyscrapers.
From the 17th to 19th century, many of Japan’s wealthy feudal lords made their residences in northern Tokyo. Yanagisawa Yoshiyasu, one of the most influential, designed Rikugien Garden, which was completed in 1695 after seven years of work. The Edo Period strolling garden has a large pond at its center with walking paths meandering around the perimeter.
The garden is most popular (and arguably most beautiful) during the autumn months when the maple leaves put on their colorful fall display, but the spring weeping cherry trees and azalea bushes are also very beautiful.
Practical Info
Since it takes a bit of effort to reach Rikugien Garden, make sure to leave yourself at least an hour to enjoy its scenery.
Address: Tokyo, Bunkyo, Japan 113-0021, Japan
From $ 190
Ninna-ji Temple
Built at the end of the 9th century in the year 888 and founded by the reigning Emperor of the time, Ninna-ji Temple maintained a centuries long reign as a royal place of worship. Members of the Imperial Family served as the temple’s head priest, bringing prestige that lasts to this day. To further elevate its status, the temple was originally named Monseki-jiin and served as a residence for a member of the Imperial Family who had entered priesthood.
Today, Ninna-ji is the center of the Omuro sect of Shingon Buddhism and houses buildings from the former Imperial Palace in Kyoto. Among the relocated historical treasures is a five-storied pagoda and Reiho-kan, a structure that houses cultural treasures such as sculptures, paintings, and the seated figure of Amida-Nyorai Buddha, the deity of Paradise. Encompassing the temple buildings is an orchard of dwarf cherry trees, making Ninna-ji one of the most popular spots to see the cherry blossoms in Spring.
Today, Ninna-ji is the center of the Omuro sect of Shingon Buddhism and houses buildings from the former Imperial Palace in Kyoto. Among the relocated historical treasures is a five-storied pagoda and Reiho-kan, a structure that houses cultural treasures such as sculptures, paintings, and the seated figure of Amida-Nyorai Buddha, the deity of Paradise. Encompassing the temple buildings is an orchard of dwarf cherry trees, making Ninna-ji one of the most popular spots to see the cherry blossoms in Spring.
Practical Info
Ninna-ji is a ten minute walk west of Ryoanji Temple and a few paces away from Omuro Ninnaji Station on the Keifuku Kitano Line – a small train that connects Arashiyama with the Kitano district. The admission fees are as follows: 500 yen for entrance ($5USD), 500 yen for cherry blossom viewing ($5USD), and 500 yen to gain access to the treasury hall, or Reiho-kan building ($5USD). The temple is open year-round.
Address: 33 Omuroouchi, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan
Admission: Admission: 500¥; Cherry Blossom Viewing: 500¥; Access to Treasury Hall or Reiho-kan Building: 500¥
From $ 89
Nikko National Park
Known for its impressive botanical garden, intricate Iemitsu mausoleum, and ornate Toshogu Shrine (a UNESCO World Heritage site), Nikko National Park is an area of incredible natural beauty with plenty to see and do. In addition to shrines and temples, the park is home to numerous lakes, elaborate bridges, excellent hiking trails, and two stunning waterfalls—all set against a backdrop of dramatic mountain scenery.
The Basics
Particularly popular among hikers, nature lovers, and those who appreciate Japanese architecture, Nikko National Park is easily accessible from Tokyo on a day trip, with most travelers visiting as part of an organized tour so as to reap the benefits of a local tour guide and the convenience of roundtrip transportation from the city. For a fully immersive journey into the history of Japanese culture, a trip to the national park can be combined with a visit to Edo Wonderland, a colorful theme park of ancient villages featuring geishas, samurais, and ninjas.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Nikko is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure travelers.
- Choose a standard entrance ticket or a World Heritage Pass that includes entrance to the park's shrines and temples.
- Day trips from Tokyo often include hotel pickup and drop-off and can last upwards of 12 hours.
- Remember to wear comfortable hiking shoes suitable for walking on uneven surfaces.
- Bring a jacket; it's cooler in Nikko than in Tokyo.
How to Get There
While a guided tour is the most stress-free way to visit the park, independent travelers have several options for getting there on their own. The Spacia bus, the fastest way to reach the park, departs regularly from Tobu's Asakusa Station and takes just under two hours one way. Those who prefer the train can take the Tobu rapid train from Asakusa (two hours and 10 minutes) or the JR train from Shinjuku (about two hours). Be sure to board the correct car, as the trains split up along the way.
When to Get There
In autumn, the foliage of the surrounding mountains—particularly around Lake Chuzenji—turns spectacular shades of red and yellow, making it an ideal time to visit. Other times of year are less crowded. Expect cold temperatures and snow in winter and mild, wet weather in summer.
The Temples and Shrines of Nikko National Park
While many come to the national park for the nature, its cultural attractions are also worth exploring. The eighth-century Rinnoji Temple houses three 28-foot (8.4-meter) gold-leaf wooden Buddha statues, as well as a lovely landscaped Edo-era garden. More than 2.4 million sheets of gold-leaf were used in the construction of the Toshogu Shrine, the most famous structure in the Nikko area. The Futarasan Shrine, the oldest structure in the area, dates back to 1617.
Address: Nikko National Park, Nikko, Japan
Hours: Open Daily
Admission: Free
From $ 18
Rainbow Bridge
Tokyo’s Rainbow Bridge, a suspension bridge spanning Tokyo Bay to connect Shibaura Wharf and the Odaiba waterfront area, is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks, particularly at night. The bridge was completed in 1993 and was painted all in white to help it better blend in with the Tokyo skyline. During the day, solar panels on the bridge collect and store energy to power a series of colorful lights that turn on after sundown and give the bridge its name.
If you’re planning to spend a morning or afternoon at Odaiba, Tokyo’s futuristic “New City” filled with shopping and arcades, check to see if the pedestrial path across the Rainbow Bridge is open. If so, you can walk across in less than 30 minutes with excellent harbor views along the way. From the various observation platforms you can spot Tokyo Tower, the Kanebo building and Skytree.
If you’re planning to spend a morning or afternoon at Odaiba, Tokyo’s futuristic “New City” filled with shopping and arcades, check to see if the pedestrial path across the Rainbow Bridge is open. If so, you can walk across in less than 30 minutes with excellent harbor views along the way. From the various observation platforms you can spot Tokyo Tower, the Kanebo building and Skytree.
Address: Japan
From $ 68
Kitanomaru Park
Located just north of the Imperial Palace grounds in Tokyo, Kitanomaru Park was once the site of the northernmost section of Edo Castle, where members of the Tokugawa clan lived. In 1969 in celebration of Emperor Showa’s 60th birthday, the area was opened to the public as a woodland park.
Today, Kitanomaru Park is home to the Science Museum, National Museum of Modern Art and Nippon Budokan indoor arena, as well as two castle gates now designated as national important cultural assets. Tayasu-mon gate at the northern end of the park was erected in 1636, making it the oldest gate remaining in the Edo Castle complex. In springtime, the 330 trees lining the castle moat passing through the park burst with cherry blossoms; it’s one of Tokyo’s most popular sites for hanami, the Japanese custom of enjoying the annual blossom display.
Practical Info
The easiest way to reach Kitanomaru Park is by taking the Hanzomon line to Kudanshita Station.
Address: Chiyoda, Tokyo 102-0091, Japan
From $ 100
Kokugikan Sumo Stadium & Museum
Sumo is Japan’s most popular sport, and there’s nothing quite like joining 10,000 sumo fans for a match to learn about this ancient form of wrestling. The best place to experience sumo is at the Kokugikan Sumo Stadium (Ryōgoku Kokugikan), Tokyo’s largest indoor arena, where three of the six official national tournaments are hosted each year. Discover sumo’s place in Japanese culture at the attached Sumo Museum (Nihon Sumo Kyokai).
The Basics
Watching a sumo tournament in this sumo hall is a quintessential Japanese experience, and with only three tournaments per year in Tokyo, it’s important to plan (and book) ahead. If you’re visiting between tournaments, you can still get a taste of sumo culture by visiting the museum, stopping at the stadium as part of a tour of Tokyo (with visits to Tokyo Skytree and Kiyosumi Garden as well), or taking a walking tour of Ryogoku District (also known as sumo town) with a sumo wrestler as your guide.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Visit during one of three annual tournaments in Tokyo to see the hulking athletes in action.
- See the stadium on a walking or biking tour of Tokyo.
- Admission is free to the museum, which is closed Saturday and Sunday and on national holidays.
- Tournament tickets tend to sell out, especially during the final days, so it’s best to book ahead.
How to Get There
The stadium is situated a short walk from JR Ryogoku Station (West Exit) and Toei Subway Ryogoku Station (Exit A3).
When to Get There
To see sumo action live, you’ll have to plan your visit during one of three 15-day tournaments, held in January, May, and September. Wrestling takes place throughout the day, but the biggest competitors take to the ring mid-afternoon. The Kokugikan Sumo Museum is open Monday through Friday.
Seating at the Kokugikan Stadium
Spectators at Ryogoku Kokugikan have three types of seating from which to choose. Most of the seating is typical arena-style chair seats, but it’s possible to book Japanese-style floor box seats or, for the best views of the action, ringside seating on cushions. While the latter are extremely popular (and difficult for foreigners to purchase), you can arrive early in the day and watch some early matches from these seats until their rightful owners show up.
Address: 1-3-28 Yokoami, Sumida-ku, Tokyo 130-0015, Japan
Admission: Varies
From $ 99
Komagatake Ropeway
See the so-called Nagano Alps from Japan's highest aerial tramway, the Komogatake Ropeway. The Ropeway opened in 1963 and is a popular way to take in one of the most stunning, scenic views in Japan. The Ropeway runs from the edge of Lake Ashi to the summit of Mount Komagatake, its namesake. The ropeway carries passengers 950 meters (3,116 feet), making it the highest vertical aerial tramway in the country. The ride soars through the clouds to provide views of Japan's highest mountain - Mt. Fuji, as well as the seven Izu Islands, Lake Ashinoko, and expansive coastline.
At Mt. Komogatake's summit, passengers off-load to a woodland area with a small shrine and numerous hiking trails to explore. Since the panoramic views are the highlight, it's recommended to only ride the Ropeway on clear days when the mountain summits can be spotted from the ground.
At Mt. Komogatake's summit, passengers off-load to a woodland area with a small shrine and numerous hiking trails to explore. Since the panoramic views are the highlight, it's recommended to only ride the Ropeway on clear days when the mountain summits can be spotted from the ground.
Practical Info
Access the Komagatake Ropeway from Hakone Park, part of the Fuji Hakone Izu National Park, about 90 minutes by rail from Tokyo. The single car aerial tram holds 101 people, and the 2.3 kilometer ride (1.4 miles) takes 7 minutes and 30 seconds. There are 10-20 minutes between cars. The trip costs ¥2,200 roundtrip (about $25USD). The Ropeway operates from 9:00am - 5:00pm every day but closes during inclement weather. Take the ride on weekdays to avoid crowds.
Address: Komagatake Ropeway, Hakone, Japan
Hours: 9am - 5pm
Admission: ¥2,200 Roundtrip
From $ 90
Kohama Island
Rolling hills and uninterrupted views set the island of Kohama apart from others in the Yaeyama archipelago. Travelers can wander grassy passes and shaded trails to two of the island’s most popular lookouts—Chura san’s Point and Ufudake. Locals say Chura san offers some of the best views in the region, but travelers agree that the view from atop Ufudake, where the whole of Kohama can be seen, is equally incredible.
Just like other nearby islands, Kohama is home to some beautiful beaches, including a long stretch of sandy shores called Haimurubushi. Visitors love that its clear waters are protected by jellyfish nets, but avid snorkelers say this means underwater wildlife leaves something to be desired. Still, wet and wild visitors can rent masks and jet skis — or opt to chill out on the shores in comfortable chairs under the shade of giant umbrellas.
Practical Info
Kohama Island is accessible by ferry from Ishigaki. The ride is approximately 25 minutes, making it ideal for day trips. Visitors can also hop ferries from Taketomi and Iriomote Islands.
Address: Kohama Island, Japan
From $ 143
Koko-en Garden
Located on the grounds of the Himeji Castle, Koko-en Garden was finished in 1992 to commemorate the one-hundredth anniversary of the Himeji municipality. The 9-acre (3.6-hectare) space, divided into nine smaller gardens, showcases the typical garden style of the Edo Period when Japan was under shogun rule.
Professor Makoto Nakamura from Kyoto University supervised the design of the gardens, which are laid out on the former site of the lord’s residence and samurai houses. The smaller garden spaces were designed so that as you walk through, the view is constantly changing.
At the onsite Tea Room, designed by an Ura school tea master, visitors can participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. The garden also houses a Japanese restaurant where traditional dishes are served with views over the garden.
Practical Info
There’s always something worth seeing in Koko-en Garden, but by far the best time to visit is during cherry blossom season (typically between March and May) when the delicate pink blossoms adorn the garden trees.
Address: 68 Honmachi, Himeji, Japan
From $ 154
Nishiki Food Market
With more than 100 shops, stalls, and vendors selling everything from fresh-off-the-boat fish and seafood, to tasty sweets and sushi takeaway, Nishiki Food Market is a wonderland of culinary delights. Kyoto’s biggest and most popular food market is a local institution and a popular attraction for traveling foodies.
The Basics
Although you can explore the market on your own, opting for a guided walking tour is a great way to bridge the language barrier, learn more about the vast array of foods on offer, and pick up tips on what to buy and from where. Sample local delicacies including sushi and sake during a food tasting tour; capture the colorful produce and bustling atmosphere on camera on a photography tour; or get hands-on and take part in a traditional Japanese cooking class, using ingredients purchased from the market.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There is no entrance fee to the market.
- Opening times vary, but most shops and stalls are open from 9am to 5pm.
- Make sure you bring local currency—many stalls won’t accept credit cards or foreign currency.
- The market is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
- How to Get to There
- Nishiki Market is located in downtown Kyoto, near the Daimaru department store. The closest subway stations are Shijo Station on the Karasuma line and Karasuma on the Hankyu line, both around a 5-minute walk from the market.
When to Get There
The Nishiki Food Market is open daily, and the entire market is covered, so it’s a safe bet for a rainy day. Available produce and foods depend on the season, and some stalls may be closed on Wednesday or Sunday.
Dining at Nishiki Food Market
Among the heaps of fresh fish, pickled vegetables, and mushroom varieties, Nishiki also has plenty of options for lunch, from street food vendors to casual sit-down restaurants. Tuck into a tasty omelette or a steaming bowl of soup; order a platter of sushi, sashimi, and yakitori; or try something more adventurous such as tako tamago (quail egg embedded in octopus), candied kumquats, or pickled gourds. For snacks, pick up some roasted chestnuts, tofu donuts, mochi (rice cakes), and various wagashi (Japanese sweets).
Address: Nishikikoji-dori, Kyoto 460-0003, Japan
Admission: Free
From $ 30
Kennin-Ji Temple
The oldest and one of the most important Zen temples in Kyoto, Kennin-Ji was founded in the year 1202 by a monk. Situated near the famous Geisha district of Gion, Kennin-ji attracts Buddhist monks on pilgrimage, as well as religious locals and tourists, and curious explorers.
The main hall is a bastion of solemnity. The architecture features rooftops that curve upwards toward the sky, as if in prayer. The original temple complex contained seven buildings, but fires throughout the centuries destroyed many. The temple was rebuilt in the mid-thirteenth century and again in the sixteenth century. Today three outstanding buildings remain: the Dharma Hall, the principal building; a tea house; and the Imperial Messenger Gate. Interestingly, the gate dates back to the 12th or 13th centuries, and today marks from stray arrows during battles can still be seen.
Kennin-ji boasts a stunning Zen garden. Like most Zen gardens, Kennin-ji's is defined by its simplicity and beauty. An aesthetically pleasing placement of rocks, trees, and grassy areas create a calming, peaceful atmosphere for strolling or simply sitting and thinking.
Practical Info
Like many temples in Kyoto, Kennin-ji's hours vary between seasons. The temple is typically open between 10 a.m. and 4:30 p.m, with slightly longer hours in March through October. The temple is closed from December 28-31. There is an admission fee of 500 yen ($5 USD) for adults, and there are discounts for students. The temple is a 10-minute walk from Gion Shijo Station on Kyoto's Keihan line.
Address: 584 Komatsu-cho, Kyoto, Japan
Hours: Daily 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Admission: 500 yen
From $ 41
Nopporo Forest Park
Escape from the city to explore the history and natural beauty of Hokkaido in the Nopporo Forest Park. The park includes untouched forests with more than 100 species of trees, 400 types of wild plants and nearly 200 wild mushroom species, which you can discover and explore along nearly 20 miles of nature trails.
Climb to the observation platform of the Hokkaido Centennial Memorial Tower to get an overhead view of the park, or visit the Historical Village of Hokkaido, an open-air museum with more than 50 historic buildings, which you can see by horse and wagon in summer or horse-drawn sleigh in winter. Then stop at the Historical Museum of Hokkaido to learn about the history of Hokkaido from prehistoric to modern times.
Practical Info
The Nopporo Forest Park sits about 10 miles east of downtown Sapporo, easily reached by public transit. During the summer you can hike the network of trails, and during the winter the site becomes a popular destination for cross-country skiing.
Address: 53-2 Atsubetsucho, Konopporo, Atsubetsu-ku, Sapporo, Japan
From $ 54