When I was still a kid, I remember dreaming of traveling to Japan. I remember wanting to see the cherry blossoms, see for myself the anime characters come to life, and of course, walk the streets of this charming city. But, there is so much more to Japan than those things. There is so much for you to see and things to experience when in this country. One trip might not be enough to experience all. From exploring ancient temples to gazing at high skyscrapers, tea ceremonies to summoning your samurai soul, Japan has so much to give. It truly is a vibrant country, where every destination will make you feel giddy with its beauty, and where every activity will make your body thrum with excitement. For a vacation that you won’t forget, here’s a list of the most unique experiences you must have in Japan.
1. Experience island life in Ishigaki (from USD 55.0)
If you’re in Japan and it’s your first time, one of the destinations you shouldn’t miss is the mystical island of Ishigaki. It’s the home to breathtaking beaches running for miles, and unique coral reefs that you have never seen before. And if you want to experience something new, trekking to the famous blue cave of the island is the way to go. There are a lot of fun water thrills that await your arrival. From appreciating the green nature that surrounds to snorkeling your way to the blue ocean, a fun time awaits. There’s more- Ishigakijima Falls is just around the corner.
石垣島での青の洞窟シュノーケリングツアー
Duration: 3 hours
2. Become a ninja for a day in VR (from USD 41.0)
Are you a big fan of the anime entitled Naruto? Ever dream of being a ninja for a day? If yes to both questions, we know the right activity for you. Experience the world of VR here in Japan, where you can live your dream of becoming a ninja. Don’t worry about not having any ninja moves. This activity includes lessons and knowledge about ninja training and ninja weapons. The best part? You can see and touch a real shuriken or what is commonly known as the ninja stars. If you want to experience Japanese culture most excitingly, this attraction is the place to go.
So excited! Original NINJA VR attraction
Duration: 1 hour
3. Witness the best of Tokyo while paddling to Tokyo Skytree (from USD 57.0)
If you’re someone who considers yourself an adventure enthusiast, you might consider joining a paddle to the famous Tokyo Skytree. It’s the tallest tower in Japan with a height of 634 meters (2080 feet), making it a hotspot in Tokyo. At an affordable cost, you’ll get to see the best of the city and even take pictures to upload on your social media accounts for keepsake. The roundtrip will take two and a half hours, so make sure to travel light and bring your water with you. The waterways are calm, and there’s little current, which makes this activity ideal for watching floating ducks and flying fishes.
Paddle to Tokyo Skytree
Duration: 3 hours
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4. Learn to play a traditional instrument (from USD 55.0)
Whether you’re someone who knows your way when it comes to music or someone who appreciates, I’m sure you’ll love learning how to play a traditional instrument. And there’s no better place than learning in Kyoto. For an hour, you’ll be able to enjoy listening to the soothing melody of Koto, mastering it, and even integrating yourself into the country’s culture. Koto is the most known traditional instrument in Japan that is a big part of Japanese culture. Its venue, Nijo Castle, is also a plus. Its architecture is simply breathtaking and picture-worthy.
Learn to play a traditional instrument
Duration: 1 hour
5. Indulge in local food after a scenic hike (from USD 73.0)
What’s better than enjoying authentic Japanese cuisines after a scenic hike in the stunning Takao Mountain? The answer: nothing. If you’re a food lover and an adventurer, you’ll surely love joining this activity. The experience will take seven hours, and you can book for a group in advance. One of the highlights of trekking this mountain is that you’ll get to enjoy bathing and taking in the beauty of nature. Apart from that, you can even take a dip in one of the best hot springs in Japan. You might even be lucky to witness Mt. Fuji. And of course, relish in some local delicacies afterward.
Hiking in Tokyo & Onsen & Japanese Food
Duration: 7 hours
6. Learn the art of weaving in Kyoto
Your visit to Japan would not be complete without joining a weaving workshop tour in Kyoto. And if you’re a big fan of artwork or anything that has to do with culture, you’ll love adding this activity to your must-try list. There are a lot of reasons why this won’t be a waste of your time. For one, it will only take an hour and a half. And with that time, you’ll already get to appreciate the city’s traditional weaving, witness the real site of the textile workshop, and even witness ancient and Nishikori art pieces. Don’t forget to take Instagram-worthy pictures!
Kyoto Traditional Weaving Workshop Tour
Duration: 1.5 hours
7. Enjoy making and sampling tasty sushi (from USD 42.0)
Experience Japan like a real townie by indulging in a sushi-making experience. There’s no better way than learning how to make authentic sushi by mastering it in Tokyo. If you’re interested in joining a class, you can bring your set of friends with you. In this activity, within one and a half hours, you’ll get to know the hows and the whats in making tasty sushi. From methods to secret ingredients, you’ll have it. And since sushi has a wide variety, you’ll get to make five types of it. Have a fun time honing your sushi-making skills.
Sushi-making Experience
Duration: 1.5 hours
8. Experience being a samurai (from USD 69.0)
It’s a known fact that Japan is the home of samurai. Most of their films, especially action movies, use the art of samurai. Awaken your samurai soul now that you’re in Tokyo. To make the experience more exciting and real, you’ll wear the country’s traditional clothing - kimono and hakama - for the perfect samurai style. Some of the activities include a tea ceremony and tasting Wagashi sweets. Afterward, you’ll watch the Japanese katana to visualize how to wield it and perform what you learn.
Feeling Samurai Soul -Samurai experience in Tokyo-
Duration: 2.5 hours
9. Attend a Japanese tea ceremony (from USD 31.0)
Another must-try experience in Ankoan, Kyoto, is the Japanese tea ceremony. Although Kyoto is famous for many things, including dining and attractions, one of the many great things you shouldn’t miss is their tea. It’s an excellent activity to have a glimpse of Japanese culture and way of life. It’s the perfect activity to take part in, especially after enjoying some Japanese cuisines. These tea ceremonies teach guests how to make the tea and the proper manner of drinking it. Make sure to stop by in Kyoto for unique things to do.
Japanese tea ceremony experience in ANOAN, KYOTO
Duration: 1 hour
10. Get your nails done in Shinjuku (from USD 42.0)
If you’re someone who loves anything that has to do with nails, you might love getting your nails done here in Shinjuku, Yoyogi. Shinjuku is a bright place housing tons of nail salons to satisfy the girl in you. If you plan to visit and make a quick stop at one of those salons, you can bring your designs. But if you want something to surprise you, they also offer different nail arts to match your personality. The best part? Their gel polishes last for almost four weeks, meaning you can still flaunt them once you get back home. Don’t forget to take artsy pictures of your nails.
*TOKYO NAIL SALON at Shinjuku, Yoyogi
Duration: 1.5 hours
The perfect combination of quirky chaos and tranquil bliss
Japan is truly a wondrous country that caters to all. With tons of thrilling adventures as well as magical soul-searching instances you won’t experience in any other place, Japan is the complete package. From lush bamboo forests to mouthwatering authentic dishes, to shopping and outdoor thrills, it’s living the best of both worlds.
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