Things to Do in Every Region of Japan
Approxximate reading time: 10 minutes
Meguro River in Tokyo, Japan
Table of contents
Introduction
Disclaimers
Tokyo
Markets like Ameya Yokocho, Ueno & Nakamise Dori, Asakusa
Mount Fuji
Osaka
Takoyaki
Universal Studios
Kyoto
Matcha
Gion
Fukuoka
Nokonoshima Island Park
Ghibli Town
Sapporo
Miso ramen
Sapporo Snow Festival
Skiing resorts
Quick Tips
Money
Transportation cards
Special tickets
Etiquette / Cultural customs
Ending notes
Introduction
Temple overlooking Mt. Fuji
So, you have plans of going to Japan, but don’t know where to start. With the vast selection of sights and activities to book in Japan, it might take you a while to finally book that flight because of the million dollar question: where should you go? After all, each place boasts their own special cuisine and picturesque views. There are also places better known for certain activities like skiing, temple hopping, beaches.
That’s why, before you confirm your plane ticket to Narita Airport, here’s our guide for first-time travelers to Japan!
Here, we cover every region of Japan from North to South, with their top activities suited for all ages and types of travelers. Stick with us ‘til the end, and you’ll hopefully find your answer there!
Disclaimers
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Tokyo
We’re starting off with the capital of Japan – none other than the futuristic world of Tokyo. Honestly, this place is so special to me and Ave because it’s where we found out we were having our daughter.
Home to some of the busiest stations in the world, it’s not hard to wonder why Tokyo has seen a boom of tourists in recent years. Here, you can experience a little bit of everything that Japan has to offer in one place and see that they’re ahead of the game.
Being the capital of the country, you can expect a variety of specialty shops for things like ceramics, streetwear, music, and of course, all things anime! Theme parks like Tokyo Disneyland and Disney Sea, and now the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, are definitely enjoyable for family, couple, or solo trips, too
Markets like Ameya Yokocho, Ueno & Nakamise Dori, Asakusa
Omoide Yokocho
You can pretty much get all your souvenir and tourist needs here since they’re long lines of novelty shops and food stalls. These are the perfect places to go to if you want to try something from every part of Tokyo – and perhaps even Japan – without having to travel too far.
Mount Fuji
Mt. Fuji in Japan
The majestic active volcano which gets a beautiful snow cap every winter season. Mt. Fuji only needs a quick day trip or an overnight stay at Shizuoka prefecture to give you its most scenic views straight out of an anime.
For insider tips on exploring Fukuoka like a local, read our article here!
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Osaka
This is the first place I’ve ever been to in Japan! I went here for the first time a year before my daughter was born, and it was so eye-opening. Here’s where I realized that Japan is operating on a different level!
Known as the food capital, Osaka lives up to its name through its various food markets in Dohtonbori and Kuromon market alone, flaunting all kinds of cuisine from Osaka and regions all over Japan.
Being close to Kyoto, there are also lots of temples in Osaka that tourists frequent: Shi-tennoji and Momoji, to name a few.
Takoyaki
Over at Osaka, locals cook it differently. If you’re coming to or from Tokyo via Shinkansen, taste the difference for yourself and judge if it’s true! Ave and I enjoy a good takoyaki either way.
Universal Studios
Universal Studios Japan
If Tokyo has Disneyland and Disney Sea, then Osaka has Universal Studios Japan. The theme park is home to many loved characters like Snoopy, Harry Potter, and Super Mario. Like other theme parks, this is another fun way to bond with your family, partner or even just by yourself – that single rider fast lane becomes convenient at the best of times!
Overall, I’d say Osaka is a good place for first-timers to get familiar with Japan’s culture. In comparison, you’ll find that the streets here are lively, but not as busy as Tokyo can often be. Finding your way around is also easier here since it’s a little quieter and less crowded in most areas.
For everything you need to know before visiting Osaka, see our guide here!
Kyoto
You’ve seen it in reels, you’ve heard about it from friends, and they’re right, mostly! There’s a reason why Kyoto is so popular, and it’s because of the magic in every temple, shrine, and traditionally built home you can find in it.
Famous for its abundance of well preserved temples and shrines so close to each other, Kyoto is one of the most visited places in Japan all year round.
Matcha
For matcha lovers, you wouldn’t want to miss out on this one! Within Kyoto is the town of Uji, where matcha grows and is turned into ceremonial grade tea. The problem is, you’ll get matcha tasting so fresh that you might not want it any other way!
Gion
Geisha district
This is where tradition meets modernity. Despite its countryside feel, Kyoto matches Osaka and maybe Tokyo’s nightlife in this aspect. Also known as the “geisha district,” Gion is a lively place where bar hopping with friends can be lots of fun by night, and a stroll by the river with your family is peaceful by day.
Ready to explore Kyoto? Start with our complete guide right here!
Fukuoka
Moving to Kyushu, the southernmost region of Japan, you’ll find the charming city of Fukuoka. Famous for their tonkotsu ramen, you’ll want to try just what makes it so special! In fact – they even have a region-special menu item here in one of the most famous ramen chains, Ichiran. Sounds great!
Nokonoshima Island Park
Nokonoshima Island Park
While the Hokkaido prefecture has the lavender fields, the Nokonoshima Island Park just a ways out of Fukuoka has a stunning view of an array of flowers so rich with color. This makes for quite the photo that makes you go – woah! This is in Japan?
Ghibli Town
The Ghibli town in Fukuoka is just the cutest thing. I would love to show my daughter around here one day when she’s old enough! For lovers of the popular animation studio movies, definitely add this one to your bucket list.
Planning your trip to Fukuoka? Don’t miss our ultimate guide right here!
Sapporo
On the other end of Japan is its northernmost island and prefecture of Hokkaido. Here, the city of Sapporo remains quiet but steadily packed in the winter season. You hear less about this place since Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto often take the spotlight when it comes to Japan travel. But prepare to be amazed, because Sapporo is home to some of the most beautiful views you’ll see in Japan.
It’s much less crowded than Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto, but expect more people during the winter season. After all, part of what makes Sapporo so famous is the winter wonderland it boasts as early as November up to as late as April.
Miso ramen
Sapporo locals have their own style of ramen that they’re famous for, but you’ll have to try it for yourself to really be the judge of that! Luckily, they have a ‘ramen alley’ where you can have a taste of this local twist on one of Japan’s most beloved dishes.
Sapporo Snow Festival
Sapporo Snow Scene
Held every February at the peak of winter, tourists from all over the globe flock to Sapporo to see the display of lights and snow sculptures at Odori Park, Sapporo.
Skiing resorts
You guys know I used to snowboard a lot; that’s exactly why I would love to try going here just to experience the crazy slopes that Hokkaido itself has to offer! If you’re a fellow snowboarder, you’ll want to check this one out. I heard Niseko is the best place to go for activities like this.
Quick Tips
Money
While cashless options are available in most stores in Japan, always have cash on hand since some stores (especially locally run, small businesses) do not accept card payments. We’ve found that convenience store ATMs are the next best thing for withdrawing cash if there’s no money exchange nearby.
There’s also good news for all Filipinos using GCash! You can use the app abroad to pay in Japan at a good conversion rate. Just have them scan the QR code generated using AliPay+. If you use WePay or ApplePay, you can also look for the sign first before you ask.
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Transportation cards
If you haven’t gotten yourself an ICOCA, Suica, or PasMo yet, it might be the best time to get one. Makes traveling that much easier!
Special tickets
Got the JR Pass? Make sure to keep it with you ALWAYS since it’s nonrefundable! If you want to know more about the Japan Rail Pass.
Etiquette / Cultural customs
Remember to be respectful and mindful of Japanese culture while visiting - they often do not like loud, rowdy people that cause a ruckus in public places and accommodations.
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The Solhaugens in Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine.
Ending notes
So, what’s the verdict? Will it be the snowy cap of Mount Fuji in Tokyo or the snowy streets of Sapporo? Does the seafood market of Osaka call to your heart? Let us know in the comments! We’d love to hear about your trip.
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