“Virtue is not knowing but doing.”
– Japanese Proverb
Japan is located off the East Coast of Asia, in the northwest Pacific Ocean. The island is home to elegant Shinto shrines, Imperial palaces and classic Buddhist temples. It’s also renowned for its beautiful Japanese Tea Gardens, colorfully dressed Geishas, authentic tea ceremonies, and Japanese culinary delicacies. Bring on the sushi!
Fun Kyoto Attractions
Kyoto is Japan’s most beautiful city. Rich in culture and history, it’s also famous for its magnificent Springtime cherry blossoms. Be sure to visit Sagano Bamboo Forest, Japan’s most famous Bamboo Forest. It’s one of the most photographed places in Kyoto (see picture below). If you have time, participate in one of Japan’s most iconic traditions – a Japanese Tea Ceremony to experience the art and culture of tea drinking in Japan.
Top must-see Kyoto attractions include:
- Fushimi Inari-Taisha Shrine – Known for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates
- Gion “Geisha” District – Kyoto’s historic Geisha District. Walk along Hanamikoji Street and visit the Yasaka Shrine, one of Kyoto’s most famous shrines
- Kennin-ji Temple – Explore Kyoto’s oldest Zen temple, renowned for its serene gardens, stunning architecture, and impressive twin dragons painted on the ceiling of the Dharma Hall
- Kinkakuji Zen Buddhist Temple – Visit one of Kyoto’s most famous landmarks, the Temple of the Golden Pavilion
- Kiyomizu Temple – Don’t miss the Otowa Waterfall and the Joshua Shrine, located within the complex of one of Kyoto’s most famous temples
- Kyoto International Manga Museum – This fun museum features a treasure-trove of Japanese comic art. It’s a must-do if you are a Manga fan
- Monkey Park in Iwatayama – Hike up to the Monkey Park to see and feed Japanese Macaque monkeys. Enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto
- Nijo Castle – A World Heritage site, Nijo Castle is Kyoto’s largest and best preserved castle
- Nishiki Market – Visit this 5-block-long covered market with over 100 food and specialty stalls. Sample local delicacies such as yakitori, sushi, and mochi (Japanese rice cake).
- Ryoanji Temple – Spectacular Rock Garden, a masterpiece of Zen landscaping
- Sagano Bamboo Forest (Arashiyama Bamboo Grove) – One of the most photographed places in Kyoto. Enjoy a peaceful walk through the famous bamboo forest. The towering bamboo stalks create a mesmerizing and tranquil atmosphere. Allow at least an hour or two to walk through the forest
- Sanjusangendo Temple – Houses over 1000 carved wooden statues of Kannon, the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy
Book Kyoto Sightseeing Tours, Day Trips and Fun Things To Do
Take a Guided Tour of Kyoto’s ancient temples and shrines. Become a sushi chef for the day on this fun Kyoto Sushi-Making Class. Enjoy a Guided Walking Tour through Kyoto’s magnificent Sagano Bamboo Forest (also known as Arashiyama Bamboo Grove). Learn the skills of ancient Japanese warriors and become a Samurai for a Day. Take a Kyoto Cooking Class, Sake Tasting and Nishiki Food Market Walking Tour. Book a fun Bike Tour and have fun exploring Kyoto’s popular attractions.
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Fun Tokyo Attractions
Enjoy the best of Japanese culture, history, shopping and dining. Tokyo is renowned for its ancient Buddhist temples, bustling nightlife, fine sushi restaurants and international cuisine. The city was also host to the 2020 Summer Olympics (held in 2021) after being postponed for a year due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Top Tokyo attractions include:
- Asakusa Kannon Temple – Ancient Buddhist temple
- Ginza District – Tokyo’s premier shopping and dining destination
- Imperial Palace – Primary residence of the Emperor of Japan, surrounded by beautiful gardens open to the public
- Meiji Jingu Shrine – Nestled in a forested area, this Shino shrine is dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken
- Senso-ji – Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple. Its majestic Thunder Gate is a must-see
- Shibuya Crossing – The world’s busiest pedestrian crossing is surrounded by neon lights, giant video screens, and bustling crowds
- Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden – One of Tokyo’s largest parks
- Sumida River – Cruise along the river for amazing Tokyo views
- Tokyo National Museum at Ueno Park – One of the city’s largest, oldest and best museums
- Toyosu Market – Originally Tsukiji Market, Toyosu Market is a fun place for foodies!
- Tokyo SkyTree – Japan’s tallest structure.
Get a panoramic view of Tokyo’s skyline and Mt. Fuji from two enclosed decks (Tembo Deck and Tembo Gallery) – the highest observation decks in Japan - Tokyo Tower – Popular tourist spot offering panoramic views of the city. Explore its observation decks and enjoy various attractions inside the tower
- Ueno Park and Ueno Zoo – Large public park featuring museums, temples, and famous zoo. In Spring, the park is a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing
Book Tokyo Sightseeing Tours, Day Trips and Fun Things To Do
Tour Tokyo’s historic temples and picturesque gardens. Take a relaxing Tokyo Bus Tour and see the city’s famous landmarks. Explore Tokyo at night on a Small-Group Evening Photography Tour. Check out your culinary skills. Take a fun Sushi-Making Class. If you have time, take a Day Trip to Mt. Fuji (pictured below), an active volcano and the tallest mountain in Japan. It’s one of the country’s most popular tourist attractions.
Find Tokyo Sightseeing Tours, Day Trips and Fun Things To Do
Japan Sightseeing Tours & Day Trips
Whatever Japanese city you’re planning to visit, click on the link below to find Sightseeing Tours, Day Trips and Fun Things To Do.
Find Japan Sightseeing Tours, Day Trips and Fun Things To Do
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The Best Time To Visit Japan
The best time to visit Japan is during Springtime (March-May) and Fall/early Winter (from September-November).
Cherry Blossom Season
One of the most beautiful times to visit Japan is during Cherry Blossom Season, typically early April.