20 Fun and Unique Things to Do in Japan
Japan is one of those destinations that truly has it all: ancient traditions, futuristic cities, jaw-dropping nature, and some of the weirdest things you’ll ever experience while traveling. Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, the country offers endless fun things to do, from peaceful Buddhist temples to neon-lit streets filled with pop culture. This guide focuses on fun and unique things to do in Japan while keeping it vegan friendly, making it perfect for anyone building their ultimate Japan bucket list.
Explore Tokyo’s Neon-Lit Wonders
Tokyo is often the best place to start, especially for a first-time visitor. Around Tokyo Station, you’ll find underground malls, department store basements, and easy transport links that make it one of the best ways to explore the city efficiently. At night, Tokyo transforms into a glowing maze of neon lights, particularly in areas like Shinjuku and Shibuya, where people-watching alone counts as one of the best things to do.
For a truly unique experience, digital art exhibitions like teamlab planets blur the line between art and technology and are among the most amazing things you can do in Japan. Check the entrance cost in advance, as tickets often sell out. Another fun option is catching a baseball game, even if you’re not a sports fan; the atmosphere, cheering rituals, and food culture make it a great place to experience everyday Japanese culture.
Embrace the Weird and Wonderful Side of Japan
Japan is famous for embracing the strange, and that’s part of what makes it so much fun. Visiting a maid café is a weird thing that often surprises first-time visitors, offering a playful glimpse into niche pop culture. Love hotels are another example of the weirdest things you’ll find; while you don’t need to stay in one, they’re fascinating to learn about and photograph from the outside.
Hotel rooms themselves can be a unique thing in Japan. Staying in a capsule hotel is a memorable experience, especially for solo travelers, while themed hotel rooms range from minimalist to wildly eccentric. Attractions like the robot restaurant have become legendary, representing Japan’s love of spectacle and over-the-top entertainment, even as they continue to evolve.
Slow Down at Temples, Shrines, and Hot Springs
Amid all the sensory overload, Japan also excels at calm and reflection. Visiting a Buddhist temple in cities like Kyoto or Nara offers insight into centuries-old traditions and some of the best parts of Japanese culture. Many temples are surrounded by gardens that change dramatically with the seasons, especially during cherry blossoms in spring or the changing of the leaves in fall.
Hot springs are another must-do and one of the best ways to relax. While traditional onsens can have rules, many modern facilities are more accessible, and some even cater to vegan guests with plant-based meals. Soaking in hot springs after a day of sightseeing is both restorative and deeply cultural.
Discover Nature Beyond the Cities
Japan’s natural landscapes are just as impressive as its cities. Mount Fuji is one of the most iconic sights in the country, and seeing it on a clear day feels like checking off a major Japan bucket list moment. Nearby national park areas offer hiking, lakes, and quieter towns that make a great place to escape the crowds.
For ocean lovers, the Tokashiki Islands in Okinawa are a hidden gem. These islands are ideal if you’re a scuba diver or enjoy snorkeling, with turquoise waters and coral reefs that feel far removed from Tokyo’s buzz. It’s a unique experience that adds balance to any itinerary and shows a completely different side of Japan.
Food, Festivals, and Cultural Experiences
Food is one of the best things about Japan, and while it’s often seen as challenging for vegans, plant-based options are growing fast. From vegan ramen to temple-style shojin ryori, eating vegan can be one of the most rewarding and fun things on your trip with a little planning and an insider tip or two.
Cultural events are another highlight. Attending a sumo wrestling tournament offers an unforgettable look at tradition, ritual, and respect, even if you don’t fully understand the rules. Theme parks also deserve a mention, blending cutting-edge technology with storytelling and offering some of the most fun places for travelers of all ages.
Why Japan Is Always Worth Another Visit
What makes Japan special is how seamlessly it blends the old and the new. One moment you’re standing in a quiet temple courtyard, and the next you’re surrounded by flashing signs and pop music. These contrasts are the best parts of the country and the reason so many travelers start planning their next visit before they’ve even left.
From weird thing moments to deeply meaningful cultural encounters, Japan delivers much fun, countless unique experiences, and memories that last a lifetime. Whether you’re ticking off iconic sights or searching for amazing things off the beaten path, Japan proves again and again why it remains one of the world’s most fascinating destinations.
related post: the ultimate 2-week japan itinerary
Top 20 Fun and Unique Things to Do in Japan
1. Wander Through Tokyo’s Neon-Lit Streets
Exploring Tokyo after dark is one of the best things to do in Japan. Areas like Shinjuku and Shibuya glow with neon lights, giant screens, and endless energy, making them some of the most fun places to simply walk with no plan. It’s a great way to experience modern Japanese culture, especially on a first time visit.
2. Visit teamLab Planets
teamLab Planets offers a truly unique experience where digital art, light, and movement surround you completely. This immersive museum is one of the most amazing things in Tokyo and a must for any Japan bucket list. Check entrance cost ahead of time, as tickets often sell out days in advance.
3. Stay in a Capsule Hotel
Sleeping in a capsule hotel is a classic unique thing to do in Japan. These compact hotel rooms are surprisingly comfortable and showcase Japan’s innovative approach to space. It’s a weird thing at first, but quickly becomes much fun and a memorable travel story.
4. Relax in Traditional Hot Springs
Soaking in hot springs is one of the best ways to unwind and connect with local customs. Many onsens now cater to international visitors and some even offer vegan-friendly meals. It’s a great place to slow down after busy sightseeing days.
5. Visit a Buddhist Temple in Kyoto
Kyoto is home to some of the country’s most beautiful Buddhist temples. Visiting one early in the morning offers a peaceful glimpse into spiritual life and is one of the best parts of understanding Japanese culture beyond the cities.
6. See Cherry Blossoms in Spring
Cherry blossoms are one of the most iconic sights in Japan. During sakura season, parks, rivers, and temple grounds turn into pink wonderlands. This seasonal experience is often considered one of the best things you can do in Japan.
7. Experience a Maid Café
A maid cafe or maid café is a playful and slightly weird thing that highlights Japan’s love of themed entertainment. While it’s not for everyone, it’s a fun and unique experience that many first time visitors are curious about.
8. Explore Love Hotels (From the Outside or Inside)
Love hotels are among the weirdest things in Japan and an intriguing part of urban culture. Even if you don’t stay overnight, seeing their creative designs gives insight into Japan’s approach to privacy, design, and hospitality.
9. Watch a Sumo Wrestling Tournament
Attending a sumo wrestling tournament is a powerful way to experience tradition and ritual. The atmosphere, ceremonies, and sheer presence of the wrestlers make it one of the most amazing things to see in person.
10. Take a Day Trip to Mount Fuji
Seeing Mount Fuji on a clear day is a true Japan bucket list moment. Whether viewed from a lake or hiking area nearby, it’s one of the best places for photography and a great place to escape the city.
11. Explore a National Park
Japan’s national park system protects mountains, forests, and coastlines across the country. Hiking in these areas offers a quieter, nature-focused side of Japan and is one of the best ways to balance urban travel.
12. Visit the Robot Restaurant Area
The robot restaurant is legendary for its over-the-top performances and futuristic vibe. Even as it evolves, the surrounding area remains a symbol of Japan’s love for spectacle and is a fun stop for anyone interested in quirky entertainment.
13. Catch a Baseball Game
Going to a Japanese baseball game is surprisingly engaging, even for non-sports fans. The chants, organized cheering, and friendly crowd create a lively cultural experience with clear entrance cost and a festive atmosphere.
14. Stay in Themed Hotel Rooms
Japan’s themed hotel rooms range from minimalist zen designs to bold, playful concepts. These stays turn accommodation into a unique experience and are part of what makes travel here so memorable.
15. Visit a Theme Park
Japanese theme parks combine storytelling, technology, and meticulous design. They are some of the most fun places for families and adults alike and easily rank among the best things to do in Japan. Our absolute favorite Japanese theme park is Ghibli Park outside of Nagoya.
16. Explore Tokyo Station Underground
Tokyo Station isn’t just a transport hub; it’s a destination in itself. The underground area is packed with shops, food halls, and souvenirs, making it a great place to explore between trains.
17. Go Scuba Diving in the Tokashiki Islands
The Tokashiki Islands offer crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. If you’re a scuba diver or enjoy snorkeling, this is a unique thing to do that shows a tropical side of Japan many travelers miss.
18. Enjoy Vegan Japanese Cuisine
Finding vegan food in Japan has become easier than ever. From temple cuisine to modern vegan cafes, food can be one of the best parts of your trip with the right insider tip. Below you’ll find great choices for vegan restaurants. If the city you’re visiting isn’t listed, I would suggest that you check out HappyCow.
19. Visit a Traditional Market
Local markets offer a sensory overload of sights and sounds and are a great place to observe daily life. They’re perfect for discovering regional specialties and small, vegan-friendly snacks.
20. Simply Get Lost and Explore
One of the best ways to experience Japan is to wander without a strict plan. Some of the most amazing things happen when you stumble upon small shrines, quiet streets, or unexpected fun things that weren’t on your list.
Where to Stay in Osaka
Fraser Residence Nankai Osaka
A comfortable apartment-style hotel directly above Nankai Namba Station, making it an excellent base for exploring Osaka and taking day trips.
Swissôtel Nankai Osaka
A luxury hotel located on top of Namba Station with spacious rooms, city views, and unbeatable access to trains, shopping, and dining.
Zentis Osaka
A stylish, modern boutique hotel near Osaka Station, ideal for travelers who want a quieter area with easy access to major transport hubs.
Hotel Noum Osaka
A minimalist, design-focused hotel near the river with a calm atmosphere and good public transportation connections.
THE BOLY OSAKA
A chic riverside hotel with large windows and modern rooms, well located for exploring central Osaka on foot.
Vegan Restaurants in Osaka
Paprika Shokudo Vegan
A beloved, fully vegan restaurant serving hearty Japanese comfort food and daily-changing set meals.
Green Earth
One of Osaka’s longest-running vegan cafés, known for filling lunch plates, desserts, and a relaxed atmosphere.
OKO – Vegan Takoyaki
A must-visit for first-time visitors wanting to try vegan versions of Osaka’s famous street food, including takoyaki and okonomiyaki.
MERCY Vegan Factory Osaka
A casual, modern vegan café offering burgers, bowls, and baked goods, popular with both locals and travelers. We went to this amazing cafe 3 times during our recent visit. Get their vegan egg sandwiches – you won’t regret it!
Alohano Vegan Ramen Osaka
Specializes in rich, satisfying vegan ramen that rivals traditional versions, making it a favorite after a long sightseeing day.
Pivot Base – we loved this delicious vegan restaurant in the Dotonbori area. We also appreciated that they were open all day so it made it easier to plan our day.
Where to Stay in Kyoto
Hotel Granvia Kyoto
Located directly inside Kyoto Station, this hotel is perfect for minimizing travel time and maximizing convenience during a short stay.
Good Nature Hotel Kyoto
A wellness-focused boutique hotel with a natural design aesthetic, centrally located near Kawaramachi shopping streets.
Cross Hotel Kyoto
A modern, comfortable hotel close to downtown Kyoto, offering easy access to restaurants, buses, and sightseeing areas.
MIMARU Kyoto Station
An excellent option for families or longer stays, with spacious rooms and easy access to trains and buses.
The Machiya Ebisuya
This is where we stayed and we absolutely loved it. The kids loved the robes that came with the stay. This is a quiet, well-priced hotel/studio option in a great area, ideal for travelers who want simplicity and good walkability.
Vegan Restaurants in Kyoto
Vegan Ramen UZU Kyoto
A beautifully designed restaurant serving creative vegan ramen in an art-filled space, offering one of Kyoto’s most memorable dining experiences.
VOG Kyoto (Vegetarian & Vegan)
A stylish vegan restaurant offering refined plant-based dishes with Japanese and international influences.
Zirael Vegan Restaurant
A cozy, fully vegan spot near Gion, popular for its flavorful plates and welcoming atmosphere.
MERCY Vegan Factory Kyoto Station
A convenient stop near Kyoto Station for quick vegan meals, desserts, and coffee between sightseeing stops.
Shigetsu (Shojin Ryori at Tenryu-ji Temple)
A traditional Buddhist temple dining experience serving shojin ryori, Kyoto’s historic vegan cuisine, in a serene setting.
Where to Stay in Tokyo
The Knot Tokyo Shinjuku
A stylish mid-range hotel close to Shinjuku Station, offering easy access to central Tokyo and late-night dining areas.
Nohga Hotel Akihabara
A modern boutique hotel blending local design with comfort, ideally located for exploring Akihabara and eastern Tokyo.
LYURO Tokyo Kiyosumi
A relaxed riverside hotel with a laid-back vibe, perfect for travelers who want a quieter base while staying well connected. This is also a very decently priced place.
Hotel Graphy Nezu
A social, budget-friendly hotel near Ueno with a friendly atmosphere and good metro connections.
The Peninsula Tokyo
A high-end luxury hotel near Tokyo Station and the Imperial Palace, offering spacious rooms and exceptional service.
Vegan Restaurants in Tokyo
T’s Tantan (Tokyo Station)
A legendary vegan ramen restaurant located inside Tokyo Station, making it an ideal stop before or after shinkansen travel.
Saido
One of Tokyo’s most acclaimed vegan restaurants, offering beautifully presented Japanese dishes that even non-vegans rave about.
Vegan Sushi Tokyo
A creative and colorful plant-based sushi restaurant that’s especially popular with first-time visitors. We absolutely loved the vegan sushi here, esp the faux meat and tempura choices. Enjoy!
Brown Rice Tokyo Omotesando
A calm, health-focused restaurant serving seasonal vegan meals in a traditional Japanese setting.
Marugoto Vegan Dining Asakusa
A friendly, casual vegan restaurant near Senso-ji Temple, perfect after a day of sightseeing.
Vegan Ramen UZU Tokyo
Located near teamLab Planets, this restaurant combines art, atmosphere, and deeply satisfying vegan ramen. We ate here after visiting TeamLab Planets and greatly enjoyed the ramen and vegan ice cream.
Japan Seasons & the Best Time to Visit
Japan has four distinct seasons, each offering a very different travel experience. The best time to visit depends on what you want to see, your tolerance for crowds, and your travel style.
Spring (March–May): Cherry Blossoms & Mild Weather
Spring is one of the most popular seasons to visit Japan, especially late March to early April during cherry blossom season. Parks, temples, and riversides across the country are filled with blooming sakura, making this a great time for sightseeing and photography.
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Best for: First-time visitors, cherry blossoms, pleasant temperatures
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Weather: Mild and comfortable
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Things to know: Accommodation prices rise and popular spots can be crowded
Best time in spring: Late March–early April
Summer (June–August): Festivals & Hot Weather
Summer in Japan is hot and humid, particularly in big cities like Tokyo and Osaka. While sightseeing can be tiring, summer brings vibrant festivals, fireworks, and cultural events.
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Best for: Festivals, hiking in the mountains, fewer foreign tourists
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Weather: Hot and humid, especially July–August
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Things to know: June is rainy season; August can be exhausting for city travel
Best time in summer: Late June or early July
Autumn (September–November): Fall Colors & Ideal Conditions
Autumn is often considered the best weather of the year in Japan. The heat fades, humidity drops, and autumn foliage turns temples, gardens, and mountains into vivid shades of red and gold.
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Best for: Scenic travel, walking-heavy itineraries, photography
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Weather: Cool, dry, and comfortable
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Things to know: Fall foliage peaks in November and draws crowds
Best time in autumn: Late October–November
Winter (December–February): Snow, Hot Springs & Fewer Crowds
Winter is a quieter time to visit Japan, especially outside major cities. While cold, it’s a good time for enjoying hot springs, snow-covered temples, and seasonal foods.
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Best for: Hot springs, snow scenery, budget travel
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Weather: Cold but dry in most regions
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Things to know: Shorter daylight hours and colder temperatures
Best time in winter: January–February
So, When Is the Best Time to Visit Japan?
For most travelers—especially on a first visit—spring (late March–April) and autumn (October–November) are the best choices. These seasons offer the most comfortable weather, beautiful scenery, and an excellent balance of cultural experiences.
If you want fewer crowds and lower prices, winter is a good idea, while summer works best if festivals or mountain regions are your priority.
Top 10 Tips for an Amazing Trip to Japan
1. Learn a Few Cultural Basics Before You Go
Understanding simple customs goes a long way in Japan. Bowing, speaking quietly on public transport, and following rules in places like hot springs or a Buddhist temple will help you feel more confident and respectful. These small efforts greatly enhance your experience of Japanese culture.
2. Plan Transportation in Advance
Japan’s trains are incredibly efficient, but they can feel overwhelming at first. Research routes, consider a rail pass if it fits your itinerary, and use apps to navigate stations like Tokyo Station more easily. This is one of the best ways to save time and reduce stress. We always rely on Google Maps for public transportation. We find it to be most reliable.
3. Book Popular Attractions Early
Many of Japan’s best things to do require planning. Places like teamLab Planets, theme parks, and special exhibitions often sell out days or weeks ahead. Always check the entrance cost and ticket availability before building your daily plans. During our recent trip, we got tickets early for TeamLab Planets and Ghibli Park.
4. Don’t Overpack Your Itinerary
Japan rewards slow travel. While there are endless fun things and amazing things to see, rushing between cities can be exhausting. Build in rest time so you can enjoy unexpected discoveries, which often become the best parts of the trip.
5. Stay in More Than One Type of Accommodation
Trying different hotel rooms adds depth to your experience. Mix modern hotels with a capsule hotel or traditional ryokan for a truly unique experience. Each style offers a different perspective on daily life in Japan.
6. Be Open to Weird and Wonderful Experiences
Some of the weirdest things in Japan turn out to be the most memorable. Whether it’s a maid cafe, unusual vending machines, or quirky themed attractions, embracing the weird thing moments is part of what makes the trip much fun.
7. Travel Beyond the Big Cities
While Tokyo and Kyoto are incredible, some of the best places lie outside major hubs. Day trips to Mount Fuji areas, visits to a national park, or time on the Tokashiki Islands offer balance and show a different side of the country.
8. Research Vegan-Friendly Food Ahead of Time
Japan is becoming more vegan-friendly, but planning is essential. Save restaurants in advance, learn a few key phrases, and look for temple cuisine. With an insider tip or two, food can easily become one of the best things about your trip.
9. Respect Rules in Hot Springs and Public Spaces
Hot springs have specific etiquette, and public behavior in Japan is more structured than in many countries. Following posted rules, lining up properly, and keeping noise low helps you blend in and enjoy these spaces comfortably.
10. Leave Something for Your Next Visit
Japan is not a one-time destination. No matter how long you stay, you’ll miss something amazing. Accept that you can’t see it all, and save a few experiences for your next visit, which makes leaving a little easier.
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THE 5 ITEMS WE WERE SO HAPPY TO HAVE FOR ALL OF OUR TRIPS:
- Merrell women’s light hiking shoes – these are amazing because they are lightweight, but are extra grippy and helpful! I also have this pair that I always get compliments on: Merrell Rainbow shoes. Fernando loves his Asics trail runners which are also grippy and perfect for walking on cobblestone streets.
- Thermoflask water bottle – like a Hydroflask, but more affordable! We don’t go anywhere without these water bottles full of purified water.
- North Face Aphrodite 2.0 capris – Seriously, I wear these pants every.single.day! I couldn’t live without these ultra-comfy, lightweight pants that dry so quickly. They are 100% worth the money!
- Osprey Day Pack – this is an awesome lightweight backpack! We easily put the belongings we need at hand for traveling around the city and on public transportation.
- Travel-friendly chewable toothpaste tablets – these are so fantastic for keeping your teeth clean on the go!
OUR FAVORITE EUROPEAN SERVICES:
- DISCOVER CARS – If you want to rent a car while you’re in Japan, our favorite car rental aggregator is Discover Cars. We frequently rent cars, and they always have the best prices and great quality vehicles.
- iTalki – if you want to learn Japanese before traveling to Japan or while you’re there, we love iTalki. We highly recommend their language services.
- NORD VPN – perfect to use your technology in other countries!
- Airalo E-Sim – this let’s you use your phone anywhere in the world without having to get a physical sim! We use this all the time when we travel outside Europe! We used this E-sim recently during our visit to Japan and it worked really well – no problem at all.
- For fun activities in each city, check out Viator and their recommendations.
- Big Bus Tours – the perfect way to see the city when you first arrive!
- Get Transfer – transfers between all of the airports and cities
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