Japan
Japan is full of unique attractions, which means there are some good things to do in Japan that you will not find anywhere else. There are so many things Japan has to offer, from epic adventures in nature to crazy experiences that cannot be experienced anywhere else in the world. It takes only a few visits to remove them from the wish list. Click A Tour offers some of the best things in Japan in the categories culture, unique things you can do in the countryside, fun, quirky, futuristic things, food (the food is so extraordinary that you should eat as much as possible), spiritual (wonderful temples and shrines) and beautiful (beautiful natural scenery).
Japan is a country that receives more than twenty million visitors a year, and while many places attract travellers in vast numbers, Japan has its tourist ups and downs during the season. January to March is one of the best times to visit Japan, as it is considered the lowest season, there are fewer crowds, and the accommodations are cheaper. The annual Ice and Snow Festival is something you will not see anywhere else in the world, and it is one of the best things to do in winter in Japan. It attracts millions of visitors to watch the displays of ornate sculptures and illuminations.
Across the country, there are countless shrines and temples, from ultra-famous small neighbourhood shrines to temples that locals rarely visit. The sighting of a few on your trip to Japan is one of the best ways to get a sense for the culture and religion of the country.
The best place to visit temples and shrines is Kyoto, Japan's capital for over 1,000 years until 1868, and Nikko, a UNESCO World Heritage Site just a few hours outside Tokyo, but you can find them anywhere in Japan, from Tokyo to Osaka. I have already mentioned Koyasan as the best place in Japan to experience Buddhist temples and stays, but there are more than just these places. A place to stay in a temple hostel is one of the most spiritual activities in Japan.
The small Japanese main island of Shikoku is one of the best places in Japan due to its religious significance and has been called a "spiritual island.". The Toshogo Shrine is a complex of buildings constructed around a mountain, and it is one of the most interesting places to visit in Japan. The mountain is considered one of three sacred sites visited in Japan, and its site is known as the Bodaiji Temple.
Sapporo is located in the mountains and known for its cold brews and one of the best spots in Japan for thrill seekers and adventure travellers. For those looking for something peaceful and interesting that is not a visit to a city in Japan with temples galore, Nara is the perfect place. Visiting the islands is one of the best things to do in Japan.
Himeji Castle is also called the White Heron Castle and has an impressive size and beauty that impresses many of its visitors, and its visit is one of the most beautiful things to do in Japan.
If you have ever seen the Tokyo Tower, this is the best place to do so, and you can go to the special observation deck to enjoy a night view of Japan (book your tickets here).
Speaking of Japanese food, sushi, tempura, and wagyu ramen are among the most popular dishes for tourists in Japan, while matcha is one of the most popular Japanese foods in the world.
If you are not in Japan for one of the tournaments, check out the official sumo calendar and exhibitions or visit a sumo stable where aspiring sumos can train.
All over Japan are cooking schools that chefs offer. Cooking classes are one of the best activities in Japan, especially for Gourmets, as you can learn more about Japan's food culture and take-home recipes for your favourite dishes.