Discovering Japan: our topic by topic guide to Japan

Thanks to our many topics and thousands of articles, prepare your travel itinerary to Japan. Temples, parks and gardens, festivities, onsen, the best restaurants, hikes, walks and other excursions in Japan will no longer be a secret to you! Across a network of around 40 cities, discover all the activities and points of interest in each of them.

 

Attractions and Excursions

Whether on foot or by bike, Japan is full of places to relax and enjoy the scenery on a nice walk! We give you some ideas with our selection.
Kiyomizudera illumination

The best autumn illuminations in Kyoto — see the fall leaves glow in the ancient capital!

Kyoto is one of the best cities in Japan to see the autumn leaves!

La vallée Todoroki

5 hikes near Tokyo to admire the autumn leaves

If Tokyo is famous for its parks and gardens, which turn red when the koyo season arrives, the Japanese capital is not the only place in Kanto where you can admire the beauty of autumn.

Beach on Hatoma

Discover Hatoma, Okinawa’s hidden island of butterflies

Just six kilometers off of the coast of Iriomote Island in Okinawa is Hatoma Island.

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The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route—Journey through the Japanese Alps!

Some of the most breathtaking views in Japan are visible along the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route that lines through Toyama Prefecture in Hokuriku.

Parks and Gardens

Enjoy the country's natural wealth by discovering the best parks and gardens in Japan!
Matcha

Top 10 gardens in Tokyo where you can drink matcha

Because there's no better setting to enjoy a matcha than a traditional garden, Japan Experience presents 8 gardens in Tokyo, where you can have tea and enjoy the scenery.

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Chidorigafuchi Park: A scenic cherry blossom paradise in Tokyo

Nestled in the heart of Tokyo, Chidorigafuchi Park stands as a testament to the breathtaking beauty of Japan's cherry blossoms.

Osaka Station

Osaka Station

Though it is older than Shin-Osaka Station, Osaka Station stands as a major commercial and central hub for Kansai's largest city. 

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Shoseien Garden: A hidden gem of Kyoto's rich cultural heritage

Nestled in the heart of Kyoto, Shoseien Garden stands as a testament to Japan's exquisite garden design and rich cultural history.

Temples and Shrines

Discover the most beautiful Japanese temples and shrines for a unique cultural and historical getaway!

Shitennoji Temple in Osaka: the first temple in Japan

Shitennoji Temple: read a guide to Shitennoji Temple in Tennoji, Osaka, the oldest state temple in Japan founded by Prince Shotoku in 593.

Toyokawa Inari Akasaka: A spiritual oasis in the heart of Tokyo

Nestled in the bustling Akasaka district of Tokyo, Toyokawa Inari Betsuin Temple stands as a unique spiritual sanctuary.

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Nagoya Temples & Shrines

Nagoya, a city steeped in rich cultural heritage, is home to numerous temples and shrines that offer visitors a glimpse into Japan's spiritual traditions.

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Sanzen-in Temple Ohara: A serene oasis of history and beauty

Nestled in the picturesque village of Ohara, just an hour north of Kyoto, lies the enchanting Sanzen-in Temple.

Onsen, Hot Springs and Public Baths

Onsen, very popular with the Japanese, are an experience not to be missed when coming to Japan! Discover our recommendations for a moment of relaxation.
Un sento au Japon

Top 5 best sento in Japan

The sento has always been a place of relaxation and socialization, an integral part of Japanese daily life.

Un sento au Japon

Top 5 sento in Tokyo: a relaxing experience in the heart of the capital

From time immemorial, the sento has been a place of relaxation and socialization, an integral part of Japanese daily life. In Tokyo, over 500 public baths are still in operation.

Un sento à Tokyo

Tokyo launches campaign to promote sento bathhouses!

From September 1 to February 28, 2026, enjoy sento at reduced prices!

Arima Onsen

Arima onsen

Arima onsen is one of Japan's oldest and most famous hot springs. Many ryokan (Japanese inns) and hotels have their own hot springs.

Museums and Galleries

History and art being very rich in Japan, there are many museums and galleries. Find our selection of the best visits!
Exposition Maruyama Okyo

Maruyama Okyo exhibition at the Mitsui Memorial Museum

From September 26 to November 24, the Mitsui Memorial Museum is hosting an exceptional exhibition of paintings by the great Maruyama Okyo.

TeamLab Kyoto

teamLab Biovortex to open in Kyoto this October!

A digital museum in Kansai? We've been dreaming of it! The permanent teamLab Biovortex Kyoto museum will open its doors on October 7. What can we expect?

Fuji-san World Heritage Center

Ban Shigeru, the architect who sublimates paper

Famous for his ephemeral buildings for victims of natural disasters, Ban Shigeru is a major figure in Japanese architecture. Winner of

Naoshima's new art museum

Naoshima, nicknamed Japan's "Island of Art", continues to enrich its cultural offering with the opening of a brand-new museum in May 2025.

Outdoor Activities

Are you a fan of sports and hiking? Discover the best places to enjoy the charm of Japanese nature!
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Mount Oyama: A spiritual and scenic hiking destination near Tokyo

Nestled in the heart of Kanagawa Prefecture, Mount Oyama stands as a beacon for nature lovers and spiritual seekers alike.

Kinchakuda spider lilies

The 10 best places to see spider lilies in Japan

With their distinct appearance, spider lilies (known as Higanbana or Manjushage in Japanese) make for a unique sight in Japan when they bloom in early autumn.

River swimming in Japan

6 picturesque rivers in Japan that are great for swimming!

With a nature-rich geography, swimming in the fresh rivers that flow through Japan is a great way to cool down during summer.

Beaches on the Shimanami Kaido

The Shimanami Kaido: A Journey Through the Seto Islands!

The Shimanami Kaido is an emblematic 70-kilometer route linking Onomichi on the island of Honshu to Imabari on the island of Shikoku.

Events and Festivals

There are many matsuri throughout the year, which are a must in Japanese culture! Don't miss any of these festivities during your trip.
Hamarikyu Garden in Tokyo, Japan

"Tsukimi” Moon Viewing at Hamarikyu Garden: Welcome the autumn season in Japan!

Appreciate the autumnal moon in one of Tokyo's most beautiful gardens!

Pompoko

Now boarding: the Pompoko train lands in Tokyo!

Attention Studio Ghibli fans: from October 17 to December 21, Tama's monorail trains will be decorated with scenes from the film Pompoko.

Miyako Odori

5 festivals where you can see geisha in Japan

Want to admire the art of the geisha? Discover 5 traditional dance festivals, where maiko and geisha mesmerize audiences.

SIte promotionel de la biennale de Biwako 2025 @biwakobiennale

The Biwako 2025 Biennale returns to Shiga!

The Biwako Biennale returns to Shiga Prefecture! What to expect? Japan Experience presents this year's theme.

Shopping and Souvenirs

Discover the best places to bring back souvenirs from your trip!
Boutique Harry Potter Harajuku

Harry Potter boutique opens in Harajuku

It's back to school at Hogwarts! A Harry Potter boutique has opened permanently in Harajuku. How do we get there? What potions are on sale? Dive into the wizarding world with Japan Experience.

Magemono wood strips are soaked in hot water for bending easier.

Hakata Magemono: an artisanal craft for everyday use

Magemono has a centuries-long history within the Hakata area of Fukuoka.

Obi belts made out of silk Hakata-Ori fabric

Hakata-Ori textiles: a wearable piece of tradition and history

Hakata-Ori weaving was developed hundreds of years ago and, thus, has become an iconic presence within traditional Japanese aesthetics.

Skincare in Japan: our shopping tips

The Japanese are renowned for their meticulous, preventive approach to skin care. Every step of their routine is designed to anticipate skin problems before they occur.

Restaurants and Cafes

Japanese gastronomy is recognized as one of the finest and richest in the world. We give you the best addresses to make your culinary journey a success!
View of Tokyo Tower from the Garden Terrace

5 places to eat in Tokyo with a great view

A bustling, cosmopolitan city, Tokyo is a hub for cuisine.

Burger at T.Y. Harbor

5 great restaurants in Tokyo with terrace seating

Eating a good meal out on the terrace of some of Tokyo's best restaurants is one of the best ways to spend time when the weather is nice.

Chanko nabe with seafood

Chanko Nabe—the recipe of champions

The might of Japan’s famous wrestlers is world-renowned. From their stoic demeanors and, of course, their formidable size, their presence is a commanding one.

Hiroshima oysters kakidon

Where to eat the local specialties in Hiroshima

From okonomiyaki to oysters, Hiroshima's culinary specialties are sure to surprise your taste buds.
 

Markets in Japan

Immerse yourself in the daily life of the Japanese by browsing our selection of the best markets in Japan!
Crowds of people in a street, lined with shops, shop and cafe signs.

Ameyayokocho: Tokyo's vibrant market street

Nestled in the heart of Tokyo's Ueno district, Ameyayokocho (アメヤ横丁) is a bustling market street that pulses with energy and charm.

Des vendeurs de poisson au marché Tsukiji.

Tsukiji fish market

The world's largest fish market has rehearsed for decades its frenetic and nourishing dance to frenzied “tuna” every night.

Le marché aux poissons de Kii-Katsuura

Kii-Katsuura fish market

Kii-Katsuura, also called Nachi-Katsuura, is a fishing port in Wakayama prefecture which owes its fame to its thermal springs but also to its fish market.

Flea Market Shitennoji

Flea market Shitennoji

On the 21st and 22nd of every month, Shitennoji comes alive. In this thousand-year-old temple is a monthly market displaying hundred-year-old antiques.

Family Travel

Are you travelling with your children or are you a theme park fan? Discover the best places to have fun with young and old!

How to celebrate Halloween in Tokyo with children

Halloween is a real event in Japan. Between the storefronts decorated for the occasion and the adults-only costume parties, it's impossible to miss.

A deer laying on grass in a zoo enclosure

Ueno Zoo

Ueno Zoo located in Tokyo’s Ueno Park is the oldest zoo in Japan.

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Visiting Odaiba with children

Odaiba has been transformed, a small fortress in Tokyo Bay, built in 1853, has been transformed into a man-made island entirely dedicated to entertainment and relaxation. Today, Odaiba is a fa

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Moomin Valley Park

Moomin Valley Park in Hann Saitama Prefecture is a theme park dedicated to the Moomin characters created by Tove Jansson (1914-2001) and popular in Japan.

Japanese Pop Culture

Manga, anime, video games... Japanese pop culture is seducing the whole world! Discover the best of these cultural phenomena.

Cosplay in Japan

Japan is home to a vibrant and passionate cosplay culture.

Nakagin Capsule Tower

Nakagin Capsule Tower

South of the Ginza district, near Shinbashi, is a unique building that stands out in the landscape of Tokyo skyscrapers, the Nakagin Capsule Tower.

With 634 meters high, the Tokyo Sky Tree is the tallest building in the Japanese capital.

Tokyo Skytree Tower

Tokyo Skytree, inaugurated in May 2012, is an imposing broadcasting tower located in Tokyo's Sumida district.

Le phénomène envahie les stations de Tokyo

Love Live!

Streaming manga, video games, television series, or smartphone applications, "Love Live!" has been a Japanese phenomenon since the early 2010s.

Nightlife

In the big Japanese cities, the nightlife is often very lively and it would be a shame to miss it during your trip to Japan. Enjoy it by browsing through our best places to have a good night out in Japan!

Celebrating Halloween in Tokyo as an adult

Halloween is a popular event in Japan, especially in the capital, which hosts numerous events throughout the month of October.

Un spectacle de geishas

Where to see geishas in Tokyo

Tokyo, a bustling metropolis, hides treasures of tradition, including the enigmatic geishas. These refined artists, guardians of an ancestral art, fascinate visitors from all over the world.

Ryogoku Kokugikan on a sanctuary of sumo in Tokyo.

Ryogoku Kokugikan, at the heart of sumo tournaments

Interested in Sumo? The Ryogoku Kokugikan is the place to be. The emblematic center of sumo in Japan, the Ryogoku Kokugikan will immerse you in the excitement of this age-old sport.

La façade de la gare de Tokyo

Tokyo Station

More than a hub, Tokyo station is rich with history surpassing its existence for over a century.