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30 Weird Things in Japan That You Can Only Try Here

• Steve Csorgo
• tsunagu Japan

The world loves Japan for its weirdness, and not without good reason! There's a wealth of unique things in japan to try, from futuristic toilets, fanciful maid cafes, miniature capsule hotels, and lightning-fast bullet trains, an unforgettable encounter with the unique and unexpected awaits on almost every street corner! For your daily dose of Japanese charm, here are 30 weird things in Japan that only exist here!

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1. Vending Machines Are Everywhere

Japan is home to over 4 million vending machines! Most are stocked with a broad selection of sodas and canned coffee, while some of the more intriguing iterations are filled with action figures, umbrellas, soup, milk, natto, art, anime merchandise, beer, cigarettes, and more! For a deeper look, check out our list of 10 off-the-wall vending machines you can find in Japan.

2. Smart Washlet Toilets

Japanese super toilets, known as “washlets,” come equipped with a smorgasbord of high-tech functions. With various backside sprays, water temperature controls, perfumes, and even noise-covering sounds, these toilets of the future put the others to shame. While overwhelming at first, they can be easily handled with a few basic tricks.

3. Limited Edition Kit Kats

While kit kats themselves are entirely normal and enjoyed worldwide, Japan has ramped up the creativity with a whole bunch of exciting, one-of-a-kind flavors unseen anywhere else. While the popular matcha kit kat immediately springs to mind, it’s only scratching the surface! Some of the more unique highlights include yogurt, wasabi, adzuki beans, manju,  cheesecake, apple, pudding, and even sake-flavored kit kats!

4. Futuristic Capsule Hotels

Taking “compact” to the next level, capsule hotels are the accommodation of the future! Offering a cheap and cozy place to rest your head amongst the crowded cities of Japan, these sci-fi-esque pods offer a surprisingly comfy, no-frills stay for those just looking to crash. But don’t think you’ll be sacrificing luxury - Japanese capsule hotels are often furnished with shared baths, televisions, entertainment rooms, food service, books, and more! For more information, check out our round up of capsule hotels in Asakusa and Ueno!

5. Lavish Love Hotels

If you ever spot a unique or mysterious hotel displaying prices per hour, you’ve encountered one of Japan’s infamous “love hotels.” Privacy is a rare commodity in Japan, with invasive parents, nosy neighbours, and tiny apartments making bringing someone back to your place a strenuous feat. Love hotels solve these issues, allowing a discreet escape for romantic escapades in the sanctity of absolute privacy. In addition to serving couples, love hotels can also be used as a place to sleep or even as your main accomodation in Japan! Here are our top picks for Tokyo’s best affordable love hotels.

6. Free Tissues Handed Out on the Street

Wander the streets of Japan’s major transit hubs and you'll likely be passed a set of free tissues. Usually displaying a company’s logo and information, this hospitable form of advertising means you’ll rarely want for tissues while touring Japan! Why can’t more companies abroad advertise like this!?

7. Wet Towels Before Meals

While now spotted across the globe, the practice of cleaning one’s hands with a wet towel before a meal is a distinctly Japanese mannerism. Likely placed beside you on the table, “oshibori” wet towels allow one to wipe their hands and freshen up before starting on the main course. Often warmed or cooled to accommodate the season, they are a welcome sight appreciated by many. While it’s tempting to use it as a napkin too (and don’t be ashamed if you really need to), general Japanese etiquette dictates it for hand-use only.

8. Adorable Randoseru Backpacks

Cute yet smart “ randoseru ” backpacks can be spotted on the backs of Japanese elementary school children as they commute to and from school. Often costing a fortune, they are crafted from high-quality materials such as leather and built tough to survive all 6 years of elementary school. Despite the cutesy appearance, they originated as a European-inspired military backpack commonly seen during the Edo period (1603-1868). In fact, the word randoseru comes from the Dutch word “ransel,” meaning backpack.

9. Kotatsu to Help You Survive the Winter

While Japanese homes largely lack central heating systems and insulated walls, they more than make up for it with the super cozy “ kotatsu .” This electric-heated table and blanket combo provides a comfortable and energy-efficient way to survive the Japanese cold - although you’ll have endless trouble getting up!

10. Blue Traffic Lights

Drivers in Japan stop on red and go on...blue? As the Japanese language traditionally made little distinction between the colors green and blue, the word “ao,” translating as “blue” in English, was and still often is used to describe both blue and green. While modern Japanese also uses the word “midori” to describe green, the remnants of this culture have remained, most notably in the traffic light system. According to the standards set by the International Commission on Illumination, the color of the Japanese traffic light is technically a shade of green that is extremely close to blue. Interestingly enough, the first traffic lights in Japan officially had “green (midori)” lights according to law, however, many publications and people at the time began to refer to them as blue (ao), leading to the official definition eventually being changed from green to blue to reflect common opinion.

11. Otoshi Dishes You Didn't Order

Pre-meal “otoshi” dishes are essentially compulsory appetizers, acting as a sort of cover charge along with a supplement to whet appetites and bridge the gap between the main meal. As they’re often pre-prepared and ready to go, you can expect the waiter to whip out the otoshi almost immediately, sometimes even before you’ve ordered! Popular otoshi includes spicy octopus, offal stew, edamame beans, potato salad, and more. Study up on our Japanese izakaya guide to prepare yourself for any other surprises!

12. Name Plates on Houses

Have you ever seen a Japanese address? Confusing right! Maze-like ancient roads rendered many of Japan’s street systems messy and bewildering, making individual street names almost totally redundant. Instead, neighborhoods are split up into individual blocks known as “chome,” forcing houses on different streets to share an almost identical address. To solve mail issues and help guests track down the right place, the use of personalized “hyosatsu” name plates has become the norm. Often affixed near a letter box or doorway, hyosatsu display the homeowner’s surname either in Japanese characters or the English alphabet. While most are simple and cheap, others are expensive and extravagant, serving as a kind of status symbol.

13. Cute and Kooky Yuru-kyara

“Yuru-kyara” are Japanese mascots used to promote towns, regions, tourist attractions, products, and more. Ranging from cute and funny to downright bizarre, they can be found across all corners of the country. Two of the most iconic Yuru-kyara are NHK’s mascot Domo-kun and Kumamon from Kumamoto Prefecture (seen above), who are both known worldwide. While often hit or miss, the influence and money behind them is not to be underestimated - Kumamon alone brought in 124.4 billion extra yen for Kumamoto in just two years!

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14. Stunning Rice Paddy Art

Made famous by the town of Inakadate in Aomori, rice paddy illustrations are a form of natural art regularly displayed between June and October. Made by manually planting differently colored strains of rice to form a picture when viewed from above, this painstaking art form kicked off in 1993 as a promotion campaign for a brand of rice. It has since blossomed into a local tradition, with previous iterations including jaw-droppingly intricate pictures of Audrey Hepburn, Godzilla, Marilyn Monroe, Star Wars, and more.

15. All-You-Can-Drink Alcohol!

Japan’s omnipresent all-you-can-drink alcohol (nomi-hodai) courses are designed for friends and coworkers to have a good time without fear of running up the check. With some as cheap as 3,000 yen (including food) for 2+ hours of free-flowing beer, wine, cocktails, sours, and more, it’s a hard bargain to pass by! All-you-can-drink courses are generally not for people dining alone, so you’ll need to get a group together before giving it a try.

16. Purikura - A Real Life Photoshop Experience

Once again, Japan has taken something simple and transformed it into a technological wonder! This time it’s the humble photo booth, which has received an extravagant upgrade in the form of “purikura.” This enhanced photography experience boasts make-up, skin tone, eye-widening, weight loss and other effects to make you look like a celebrity...or an alien. You can also digitally add colorful stickers, notes, and dates to your photos, which will be instantly printed out multiple times to share and bring back home. For the extra curious, here are 10 facts you probably didn't know about purikura.

17. Toilet Slippers

Toilet slippers are a specialized bathroom-only pair of indoor slippers providing a welcome barrier between you and the bathroom floor. Alongside Japanese homes, they are most often encountered in ryokan inns, traditional restaurants, and chaya teahouses. Not all Japanese households have them, so don’t be surprised if you occasionally have to go barefoot.

18. Automatic Taxi Doors

Taxi drivers in Japan can automatically open and close the doors to their vehicle via a remote control panel, providing an additional bit of customer service to make the entire process smoother for all. A common surprise for first-timers to Japan, this technology came into popularity during the 1964 Tokyo Olympics to reduce the need for taxi drivers to be constantly stepping out of their car. While it’s perfectly fine to open and close the doors yourself, why waste the effort! For more taxi etiquette, check out our tips on riding taxis in Japan.

19. A Mountain of Energy Drinks!

In a society that runs on overtime, energy drinks are big business in Japan! Japanese supermarkets and convenience stores are packed with tantalizing energy drinks often taking the shape of small, medicine-like tonics brimming with vitamins and nutrients. One of the most popular is Lipovitan D by Taisho Pharmaceuticals, which is loaded with taurine, vitamin B, caffeine, and inositol, giving drowsy workers or sleepless partiers a powerful kick of life. There are also lemon and orange-flavored vitamin C supplements, jelly sipping-packs with vitamins and minerals, and turmeric tonics to prevent hangovers!

20. Wearing Masks Is Common

While the outbreak of COVID-19 has normalized mask-wearing across the globe, it’s nothing out of the ordinary in Japan. Whether you’re sick, taking the train, lacking makeup, looking tired, or just trying to survive pollen season, Japan has a deeply embedded culture of mask etiquette. Looking around the streets nowadays, you’ll seldom see anyone without a mask, and even after the effects of COVID-19 wear off, it’s unlikely to change.

21. Drinking in Public Is A-OK

While stringent open container and public intoxication laws have all but banned public drinking in many countries, Japan is quite the opposite. You’ll see travelers purchasing beer for the train, college students gathering for drinks in parks, and even impromptu street parties in nightlife districts like Shibuya and Roppongi! While this would be nightmarish in many other countries, Japanese manners prevent most from going overboard, making the streets fun and safe places to be no matter the time.

22. Super Speedy Bullet Train Cleaning

Made famous by the 7-minute miracle video (above), Japan’s celebrated bullet trains are miraculously cleaned, sanitized, and prepped for the next trip in under 10 minutes by a crew of tireless dedicated workers. While such a feat would be a logistical nightmare for most countries, Japan’s bullet trains are in a league of their own!

23. Free Footbaths to Warm Your Feet

Free public footbaths, known as “ashi-yu” in Japanese, are dotted across many of Japan’s hot spring villages and elsewhere, providing a place to warm up and rest tired feet in the pristine waters of natural hot springs. Just take your shoes off, pop them in, and relax! Don’t forget to bring a towel though - there’s nothing worse than socks with wet feet!

24. Fake Display Food to See What You’re Getting

Restaurants in Japan will often display realistic plastic models of their dishes to entice passersby and flaunt what’s on offer. A big help for those lacking language skills, these plastic delights often adorn the windows of Japanese, Chinese, and family restaurants to make the time-consuming task of choosing where to eat straightforward. It’s no surprise this practice has spread overseas!

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25. Two Valentine's Days?

Complementing the original Valentine’s Day, Japan celebrates romance again a month later on White Day (March 14). As a general rule, women will give chocolates on February 14 while men will return the favor on White Day - usually in a larger size! In addition to your special someone, cheaper chocolates are often handed out to coworkers and friends in a tradition known as “giri choco,” literally meaning “obligation chocolate.”

26. (Almost) No Trash Cans

Japan’s lack of trash cans in public spaces is a puzzling contradiction in this land of ultra-convenience. Those that can be found generally accommodate vending machines and are limited to cans and plastic bottles. While Japan once had more trash cans, many were removed as part of counter-terrorism efforts after the Tokyo subway attack in 1995. While it can be annoying, think of it as an incentive to reduce your environmental impact!

27. Anime Cafes and Restaurants

Pokemon, Hello Kitty, One Piece, Sailor Moon, Doraemon, and more, anime and character cafes inspired by Japan’s favourite franchises are dotted all across Tokyo and other major cities. With cleverly designed cakes, drinks, ice-cream, pancakes, and other delights imitating the colors and styles of beloved characters, these cafes are an otaku dreamland! While some are open all year round, many are seasonal events set up for a limited time only, so don’t wait around if you find one you like!

28. Maid/Butler Cafes

Maid and butler cafes are the epitome of “weird Japan!” Often found on the streets of Tokyo’s otaku hub of Akihabara, patrons can enjoy the service of impeccably-dressed Japanese maids and butlers as they entertain with songs, dances, and performances. The food is also super cute, covered with sauce illustrations of cats, love hearts, and more, taking “kawaii” to the next level.

29. Luxurious Fruits Over $100!?

Costing upwards of 15,000 yen (approx. $140 USD) a pop, Japan’s iconic square watermelons are far from an everyday treat - and that’s just the tip of the iceberg! Some of Japan’s most expensive fruits include the jet-black Densuke Watermelon, which has sold for a record price of 650,000 yen (approx. $6,000 USD), along with the ping-pong ball sized Ruby Roman grapes, which start around 40,000 yen (approx. $365 USD) a bunch. But what makes them so costly? And who would actually pay that much for fruit? All the answers lay in our guide to expensive fruit in Japan!

30. Themed Trains

Japan’s themed trains spice up travel with unique decor, fun activities, and exciting tie-ins to beloved franchises. Highlights include the Genbi Shinkansen, which is filled with installations by prominent artists inspired by the surrounding scenery of Niigata, along with the Toreiyu Tsubasa, which offers a footbath and viewing window to take in the gorgeous scenery of Fukushima and Yamagata in peak comfort. There are also anime and game-inspired trains, such as “Pokémon with You” in Kesennuma, Miyagi Prefecture, along with others featuring wood fireplaces, playgrounds, kotatsu seating, gourmet meals, sake tasting courses, open-roofs, and more! Make your journey as thrilling as the destination with these 10 unique trains you can ride in Japan.

Excitement Around Every Corner!

Making ordinary things fun and special - that’s what Japan is all about! No matter how many times you visit, a fresh dose of exhilarating Japanese culture awaits! While often a little shocking at first, once you get over the initial surprise, you’ll realize just how wonderful and essential most of these items actually are. In fact, many leave Japan wondering how they’ll ever survive without them! Use this list as a guide to start uncovering “weird Japan” and ramp up the excitement on your next Japan adventure!

If you want to give feedback on any of our articles, you have an idea that you'd really like to see come to life, or you just have a question on Japan, hit us up on our  Facebook ,  Twitter , or  Instagram !

Top picture: EQRoy / Shutterstock

The information in this article is accurate at the time of publication.

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Quirky, Funny And Weird Things In Japan

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: February 21, 2023

Categories Japan

I received mixed responses when I told my family and friends that I would be traveling to Japan .

Varying from ‘ I'd love to go there as well ’ to ‘ I am really looking forward to hearing about your experiences ‘ and ‘ Be prepared, Japan is crazy ’.

Let me start by saying that Japanese people are the best. They are helpful, kind, and considerate, and one of the main reasons why I enjoyed my one-month Japan trip so much.

But I have to admit I came across some weird things in Japan!

Quirky and weird things in Japan

Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We're very grateful when you use our links to make a purchase:-).

Funny things in Japan

Let's start with Japanese toilets… I may have a slight obsession with public toilets. The thing is, I have the tiniest bladder which makes locating toilets while traveling a priority.

During our trip around Southeast Asia , I made it a habit not to drink at all on travel days. I know, not very healthy in a hot and humid climate.

But there is nothing worse than driving over a bumpy road in the back of an overcrowded van with a bladder that feels like an oversized water balloon ready to burst.

Lucky me, because Japan is a great place for people with small bladders. You see, in Japan, public toilets are everywhere.

And what’s more, pretty much all the toilets are sparkling clean. Also, Japanese toilets come with some very interesting options…

Of course, I had to try these out. I will not go into details but it may not have gone very well and I may not have used them since that particular incident.

Turns out I am not pro enough to handle Japanese toilets.

Must. Try. Buttons.

In Japan, drones are not allowed in the toilet area. Shocking isn't it? But there were more interesting toilet things…

Like this map of the toilet building. Really!? A map of the toilet?! I mean, it was a 3 by 4-meter cubicle, you couldn’t get lost if you tried.

For this huge toilet building, however, a map is perfectly appropriate.

I laughed so hard when seeing this picture, it was a good thing I was already sitting on the toilet. Anyway, enough with the toilet humor. Because there were more quirky things in Japan…

2. Plastic food and vending machines

This list of Japanese weirdness wouldn’t be complete without some pictures of plastic food.

I personally think plastic sample dishes are an excellent idea, you know  exactly what you are going to get.

But it’s slightly weird when you are looking at a plastic plate of food and actually start to feel hungry because it looks delicious.

Well, maybe I’m just a little weird myself;-). Or obsessed with Japanese cuisine. Possibly both. But not too much food:

Why would anyone want this? Assuming it's even possible for a single person to eat this much…

There are some strange drinks being sold in some of the convenience stores in Japan that don’t always look very appealing. Is it just me or do other people find this a disturbing-looking drink as well?

I thought I landed in Japan when stepping off the plane, but I actually landed in vending machine world! In Japan, you can buy anything from a vending machine. Absolutely anything you can think of.

Because this industrial park indeed seems like the perfect place for, not one but, eight identical vending machines. Oddly there was nobody around to actually purchase something…

I know it’s a terrible picture, but I had to capture this to prove it's real: a fully automatic ice cream robot!

Serving different flavors each day! Unfortunately, the flavor of the day I visited was mint, not my favorite to say the least…

3. Weird and funny signs

There were loads of hilarious signs in Japan. I didn’t take a picture of all the crazy signs I came across, however, I still managed to collect quite a few funny ones.

The illustrations alone were very enough to make me laugh out loud.

But what was even funnier is that a couple of Japanese girls were feeding the deer and then started screaming when the deer kept chasing them for food. Seriously, what did they expect?

Safety first! Keep right. And don't use anything…

Queuing is everything in Japan, maybe even more so than in the U.K. You'll find very clear instructions at train stations where to line up.

I can't help but laugh each time I look at this picture. It's really too bad for all the English-speaking people in the world: apparently, there is no good fortune in English.

What kind of #$%^& cigarette is this?!

That poor dog.

I had some serious Pacman flashbacks when I spotted these angry aggressive anti-fungus figures.

4. All things Kawaii…

Kawaii means cute, cuddly, soft, and sweet. There is a whole Kawaii scene in Japan and you see aspects of it everywhere.

Like these very Kawaii roadworks we came across in the streets of Tokyo.

Or these marimo balls. Marimo are green spheres of algae and are very kawaii (because fluffy). They are only found on Hokkaido , the northernmost island of Japan.

How much of a thing is Kawaii in Japan? Let me quote the Lonely Planet: Marimo became endangered after being designated a national treasure. Suddenly everyone in Japan needed to have one.

Instead of buying a real, yet very endangered, Kawaii marimo it's better to buy a fake, yet also very Kawaii, fluffy furry soft green souvenir.

Need a colorful wig anyone? To achieve a more kawaii look?

5. Japanese jingles

Pretty much everything in Japan has its own jingle. Like the garbage truck.

Each subway station also has its own jingle so never a boring moment when riding the tube in Tokyo .

And of course the mania and earsplitting noise in the Japanese gaming halls…

6. General Japanese quirkiness

I couldn't resist adding a few more quirky things to this list.

Because of course, you want to keep your hands warm when riding a bike! I desperately want this for my own bike in the Netherlands. I’m always freezing during the cold winter months.

I can’t help but laugh about some Japanese cars. So. Ugly.

And how about this extremely considerate chain holder?

Did you know Japan is the country with the highest proportion of elderly citizens in the world? So it actually kind of makes sense chain holders are a thing in Japan.

Tired of holding your baby? Good news: there's a solution for that as well in Japan.

Just place your adorable little tot in here for a while. Face forward, of course, the maker of this device felt it was necessary to add that to the instructions.

7. Japanese game centers

When I stepped into a gaming hall I didn't know where to look first. There was so much noise, so many screens and blinking lights.

There were video games, arcade games, old games, new games, crane games and so much more… Even if you're not into gaming it's worth taking a quick look inside a gesen (which translates into game center).

Plan your Japan trip like a pro with these tools: ✅ Get a Japan Railpass to save lots of time and money. ✅ Rent a car for your Japan road trip via Rentalcars.com . ✅ Stay connected with Airalo Japan offer . ✅ Plan your journey with the Japan Lonely Planet . ✅ Find the best hotel deals on Booking.com . ✅ Join the best tours in Japan via Klook . ✅ Travel safely and get reliable travel insurance from Safety Wing .

The weirdest things Japan: in conclusion

We have come to the end of my collection of funny, quirky, and strange things in Japan, I hope it made you laugh. 

If you spend some time on Google you'll find plenty of other unusual things in Japan such as robot restaurants, claustrophobia-inducing capsule hotels, love hotels, Harajuku girls, Japanese game shows, maid cafes, and cuddle cafes.

However, the bottom line of this post is: visiting Japan is a unique experience! Japanese culture is very interesting and it's a beautiful country with so many amazing things to see and do.

From mysterious Shinto shrines, bullet trains (the famous shinkansen ), sumo wrestlers, natural hot springs, and cherry blossoms, to wild animals such as black bears and the Yamaneko wildcat, Japan is an amazing country.

A trip to Japan is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and I highly recommend planning a trip to the Land of the Rising Sun . We've made two trips to Japan so far and I would love to return to explore more!

Also read these posts about Japan :

• Check the budget for Japan
• Explore the Japanese Alps
• Travel from Kanazawa to Shirakawago or from Takayama to Shirakawago
• Spend 2 days in Kyoto
• Go off the beaten path in Japan
• Visit Tokyo with kids
• Spend a day in Osaka
• Hike around Kamikochi or Koyasan
• Drive around Hokkaido
• Learn about the tragic history of Hiroshima
• Watch the floating Torii at Miyajima
• Pack for Japan

This post was updated in February 2023.

Monday 2nd of December 2019

That map is actually in braille and for blind people. If you also notice the street with grids and bumps on the sidewalks, those are also for the blind. Japan is really considerate to those who are disabled. Even the buses, they would go lower for people who can't step to high, and for wheelchairs the buses would go even lower.

Tuesday 3rd of December 2019

I didn't know that but that's so considerate! Thank you for sharing this information:-)

Ryan Biddulph

Wednesday 7th of September 2016

So much fun!

I've only seen the airport in Osaka - cleanest bathrooms I've ever seen - but my wife lived in Hiroshima for about a year. Legendary stuff she saw, from the orderliness but wacky, zany and strange things observed.

From our Western perspective this stuff makes us laugh and in truth, marvel too, when you realize the thought and planning that goes into the final product.

Thanks so much for sharing :)

Thursday 8th of September 2016

Thanks so much for your thoughtful comment Ryan! Japan has a marvelous society indeed:-)

Saturday 20th of August 2016

I really enjoyed all the photographs here. I was surprised to see the basil seed drink photograph here. The Japanese like it? You know what, basil drink is very good for health!!!

Wednesday 24th of August 2016

Glad you like the pictures! I haven't tried the basil drink, maybe next time (now that I know it's good for my health I am a little more inclined to try it;-)

Monday 15th of August 2016

There are so many things to notice around, all the signs! Specially those of how to behave in public areas and how to use a toilet, after the increase of mass tourism (chinese) in recent years.

Signs everywhere and while they are absolutely useful, they can also be very funny;-)

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17 Unique Japan Experiences to Try While Traveling the Country

August 30, 2019

Whether you’re visiting Japan for the first time or looking for a new way to   explore all the country has to offer, here are 17 ideas for fun cultural immersion – not only in Tokyo but also in other popular sightseeing areas including Hokkaido, Kyoto, Kyushu and more.

To bring you this roundup of unique things to do, we’ve collaborated with Omotenashi Selection , a project that brings together traditional items and experiences from around Japan and shares them with international audiences. All 17 experiences recommended here have been vetted by the OS team, so you’re guaranteed to get top-notch service and treatment no matter which option you choose.

KANTO REGION

Rickshaw on-site service by kurumaya co., ltd..

The region: Tokyo The highlight: Bringing the rickshaw ride to you

No need to go all the way to Asakusa to take a rickshaw ride any more. Kurumaya brings the ride to you with their portable rickshaws. This makes the experience all the more meaningful as you can book it for special occasions at a place of your choosing. Surprise your better half with a romantic rickshaw ride for an anniversary celebration, or book it to show visiting friends around your local neighborhood.  sites.google.com/site/rickshawrental

Travelling Outdoor Hotel “The Caravan” by Wonder Wanderers Inc.

The region: Tokyo The highlight: Discover Japanese nature in luxury

The Caravan is an outdoor hotel that travels around Japan. It offers tents made of 100 percent cotton, comfortable beds and a bar lounge surrounded by nature. Services vary depending on the season and location – your full-course dinner could be served near your tent overlooking a serene view of nature, or in a thrilling setting that you could never have dreamed up. wonderwanderers.com

Shojin Cuisine by Daigo

The region: Tokyo The highlight: Exquisite omotenashi and traditional Buddhist cuisine

Shojin cuisine is a type of vegetarian meal originating in Japanese Buddhist temples. At Daigo restaurant, you can explore authentic dishes with a menu that changes regularly throughout the year, giving you options for new tastes and flavors every time you visit. Also enjoy a beautiful Japanese garden and furnishings such as tatami, sunken kotatsu tables and kakejiku (hanging scrolls), as well as thoughtful omotenashi (hospitality).  www.atago-daigo.jp

Origata and Mizuhiki Arrangement Lessons by MR Office

The region: Tokyo The highlight:  Wrap gifts with traditional washi paper  

Create your very own gift while learning one of Japan’s traditional crafts. The lesson is a mix of demonstration and hands-on experience, starting with a simple mizuhiki (decorative cord) and moving on to origata, the art of wrapping gifts in traditional Japanese paper. www.win-win-manners.com

Japanese-style Facial Salon “Facia Ginza” by Something Great Co., Ltd.

The region: Tokyo The description: Experience Ginza’s finest beauty and healing treatment  

To ensure this will be your best salon visit yet, the facial team starts prepping a custom experience as you walk through the door. Through a detailed forum and personal counseling session, they’ll work to find out what treatment works best for you. Cosmetics used at the salon are carefully selected from professional products developed under the supervision of doctors. They are also sold in portable quantities, perfect for taking with you when you travel. facia.tokyo

Flower Arranging Experience by UZU Hanaiku Hanaemi

The region: Kanagawa The highlight: Enhance beautiful flower arrangements with wood shavings

Wood has extraordinary moisture-retention properties, making it the perfect “mini vase” in which to place small flowers and plant cut-offs. In this workshop, wood shavings serve as vases, but you can also break them off into smaller pieces or tie them into knots to make interesting bases. Because they retain water so well, they also work as an all-natural humidifier. Although at first glance it may seem quite simplistic – placing a flower in a curled wood shaving on a plate – there is a deeper meaning to be found in this creative activity. www.uzu-hanaemi.com

Herbarium Lesson by Ramu Chalk Paradise

The region: Saitama The highlight: Add a Japanese twist to a beautiful flower arrangement

Creating a beautiful herbarium may seem difficult for beginners, but with expert guidance you’ll quickly get the hang of it. You’ll get to choose from a wide number of flower materials in assorted colors, and be shown how to add a hint of Japanese style by inserting a sakura-patterned paper crane and mari (Japanese decorative ball). www.ramu-chalk-paradise.net

Ibaraki Wedding Experience by P-Hapi Co., Ltd.

The region: Ibaraki The highlight: Plan your dream wedding in Ibaraki

Another one for future brides and grooms, this service lets you turn your destination wedding into the ultimate experience. Choose from jaw-dropping venues in Ibaraki for your special day, and make use of their photography service for couples who want to take commemorative photos wearing a dress or kimono at a traditional shrine. ibaraki.wedding

KANSAI REGION

Heian costume experience by iyasaka co., ltd..

The region: Kyoto The highlight: Transform yourself into a Heian-period noble  

This photo studio is part of a new service offered by traditional costume store Iyasaka. Here, you can try on faithfully recreated Heian costumes and enjoy a photoshoot. The studio resembles Kyoto’s traditional Kyomachiya townhouses, allowing visitors to enjoy an authentic atmosphere. Photo session plans are flexible and the shoot will be documented by a highly skilled photographer familiar with the Heian period. www.iyasaka-kyoto.co.jp

Kazari Maki-zushi Certified Instructor Qualification Course by Sushi College Rollmakiko  

The region: Mie The highlight: Master artistic, delicious sushi  

The main defining characteristic of kazari maki-zushi is its unique, colorful designs. These decorative sushi rolls are made using natural ingredients such as fish eggs, kinshi tamago (thinly sliced egg crepe) and vegetables. In this course, which begins with the simple design of a sakura (cherry blossom) flower, you will learn 10 maki-zushi designs, including seabream and Japanese kanji characters. Original patterns can be added as an option upon request, including portraits and popular characters. rollmakiko.com

Mirai Seisakusho Confectionery Shop for Children by Patissier eS Koyama Co., Ltd.

The region: Hyogo The highlight: A confectionery shop designed exclusively for kids

Mirai Seisakusho, the Future Factory, is designed to provide children with an engaging experience that not only lets them enjoy confections, but makes them feel like they’re exploring a secret futuristic universe. Look forward to fun devices such as an electronic roulette game that activates after every purchase and a projection mapping conveyor belt. www.es-koyama.com

Makeup Transformation Experience by Jyosou Shinshi

The region: Osaka The highlight: A male-to-female makeover

Not your conventional tourist attraction, but then again Japan has never shied away from a bit of dress-up. Whether you’re into cosplay or simply curious to see what you might look like as a woman, this private makeover session will make for an interesting activity on your itinerary. Your transformation will be done by an award-winning contemporary makeup artist, and the service includes wigs and costumes. www.zyosoushinshi.com

TOHOKU AND HOKKAIDO REGIONS

Charcoal-grilled senbei-making experience by yamanaka senbei honpo.

The region: Fukushima The highlight: Learn the techniques of senbei cracker artisans

The senbei crackers you’ll be creating here are flavored only with yomogi (Japanese mugwort) herb and salt so as to maximize the taste of just-grilled senbei. Compare the taste to the traditional tamari soy sauce senbei crackers, which are given to participants as a souvenir. Because the heat from the charcoal grill cooks the senbei to the core, it produces a crisp and light texture while maintaining a certain amount of fluffiness, which sets it apart from those grilled with gas burners or far-infrared cookers. www.yamanaka-senbei.com

Glass Blowing Experience by Glass Studio Nakamori

The region: Hokkaido The highlight: A traditional craft for both kids and adults in the “city of glass”

Glassware production is a traditional art in Otaru city, dating back to the Taisho era. The glass studio, located near Otaru Station, allows you to create this local traditional craft. Select the shape and color of your choice from a wide variety of options.  nakamoriglass.strikingly.com

KYUSHU REGION

Kumihimo experience by ktp.

The region: Fukuoka The highlight: Braid silk threads to create beautiful gifts

During this lesson, you can experience braiding techniques that have been handed down from generation to generation, using traditional tools. It’s a fusion of past and modern culture: the kumihimo braiding itself is done using a time-honored method, but the items you create are contemporary accessories including bracelets, anklets and earrings.  www.masumimusubi.com

Angel Express by R Wedding Co., Ltd.  

The region: Fukuoka The highlight: Give your wedding guests a gift to remember  

Planning a wedding in Japan? Then this is an experience for you to gift to your wedding guests. At Angel Express, you can select from over 4,000 kinds of hikidemono (gifts for wedding guests) and the staff will package them beautifully using noshi (a special kind of wrapping paper) and include a unique poem. Guests will receive a message card at your wedding informing them to expect their delivered gift at a later date. The service is available for over 40 delivery locations. www.angelexpress.jp

SHIKOKU REGION

Visit the “twenty-four eyes” movie studio village  .

The region: Kagawa The highlight: Explore the Golden Age of Japanese cinema

Immerse yourself in the nostalgic atmosphere of the classic Showa-period film Twenty-Four Eyes at this movie-set village on Shodoshima Island. Based on the novel by Sakae Tsuboi, the story was first made into a film in 1954 during the Golden Age of Japanese cinema and was filmed at this custom-made village. The island itself is a popular tourist destination packed with plenty more things to do and see while you’re there. 24hitomi.or.jp

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45 Crazy Fun Things to do in Japan

Home » Blog » Japan » 45 Crazy Fun Things to do in Japan

If you’re looking for unique things to do on your trip to Japan, you’ve come to the right place! From super quirky, only-in-Japan experiences to must-see sights and the best food to try, we’ve rounded up the top things to do in Japan on your first visit.

Japan is a country with a perfect mix of quirky chaos and tranquil bliss . 

With epic adventures in nature as well as crazy experiences you can’t have anywhere else in the world, there are so many things to do in Japan that it will likely take a few visits to check them all off your bucket list. In fact, we’ve visited Japan 3 times and are already looking forward to our next visit!

Whether this is your first time visiting or you are a frequent traveler to the “land of the rising sun,” we’ve got a collection of fun and exciting things to do in Japan for all types of travelers.

From crossing the busiest intersection in the world to wandering peaceful Japanese gardens, there’s a little something for everyone. We’ve curated a list of all the things you won’t want to miss on your trip to Japan, including insider tips and practical information. 

Read next: We’ve rounded up all the things Japan is most famous for in a guide that’s also packed with practical travel tips. Plus, we’re sharing a few things we personally think Japan should be famous for, but most foreign tourists are surprised to know.

Japan Travel Guide

For more tips and advice for planning your trip to Japan, jump to the following sections (or just keep scrolling to see it all!).

• How many days do you need
• Japan itinerary ideas
• Best time to visit

How to get around Japan

• Tips for visiting
• What to pack
• Round up of things to do in Japan

Top things to do in Japan

If you’re looking for the very best things to do in Japan, here are our top recommendations: 

• Hike the Kumano Kodo Trail
• Soak in an onsen
• Go Izakaya hopping
• Explore teamLab’s installations
• Go on a food tour
• Take a Japanese cooking class
• Visit shrines and temples
• See snow monkeys at Jigokudani Park
• Take a ride on a bullet train
• Glimpse Mount Fuji

Keep reading for more detailed information on each of these things and more ideas of fun things to do in Japan. 

If you’re planning a trip to Japan, we have the ultimate resource for you!

This  FREE   PDF download  includes  everything  you’re going to want to pack for your Japan trip, including what NOT to bring, plus tons of insider tips!

Sign up for our  ultimate Japan packing list  now and get a copy sent straight to your inbox.

1. Hike the Kumano Kodo trail

Yes, much of Japan is crowded. But there is also a huge portion of the country where you can find peace, tranquility, and yes, solitude. If you love nature, hiking, and out-of-the-ordinary experiences, this is JUST the thing to put on your radar.

Many people have heard of the Camino de Santiago in Spain, but few know of the sister trail, which is located in Japan. The Kumano Kodo is an ancient pilgrimage trail that weaves through remote mountains and tiny villages , in which you can stay at traditional guesthouses.

During our time on the trail, we saw a whopping total of 18 other people! How is that even possible in Japan?!

This region has started gaining more attention in recent years, and that’s great. It is such a unique way to see Japan, and a great way to support locals living outside of major cities. But we have a feeling this trail won’t be under the radar for long.

Another great thing about this trail is that you can adjust the hiking days to fit your travel plans (it’s possible to do just 2 days or as many as 6 days). If you know anything about us, you know that we’ve gotchu covered with an  info-packed Kumano Kodo guide  (plus TONS of photos!). 

Supporting off-the-beaten path experiences is a great way to keep tourism dollars local.  ViaHero  is a trip planning platform that will connect you to a local in Japan who will help you plan an authentic itinerary that supports their community.

2. Soak in an onsen

You should try one (or a few!) on your trip to Japan. Let’s start by defining what is an onsen, exactly…

Onsen: a Japanese hot spring with a bathing facility

Japan has a lot of volcanic activity, meaning there are onsens all around the country. Traditionally, onsens are separated by gender, and they are a staple in Japanese culture.

The most magical onsens are the outdoor ones with a view. But you’ll find all varieties. Similarly,  sento  are indoor bathing facilities that use ordinary heated water (not from geothermal activity).

If you  visit Japan during the winter , taking a dip in an onsen, or natural not spring, is a must. 

While onsens are nice in other seasons as well, there’s nothing quite like immersing in steaming water while chilly winter air kisses your shoulders. Pure magic!

Both onsens and sento are meant for communal bathing.  I know what you’re thinking:  I have to get naked… with strangers?!

My thoughts were the same. But after experiencing a  jjimjilbang  (which is essentially the Korean equivalent to an onsen or sento), I realized that nobody cares what you look like. Yes, seriously. It still may feel strange at first, but it is something you’ll get used to.

Insider Tip:  Be sure to read over the  basic etiquette you should follow in an onsen  because there are definitely some things you should know before you strip down… (You’ll find everything you need to know under #18 in the article linked above.)

3. Go Izakaya hopping

One of our favorite ways to feel like you’re experiencing local life is to pop into an izakaya (tiny, casual bar with food) and order a drink and some small plates. 

Often times, izakayas only fit around 15 people, so it becomes as much about the atmosphere as it is about trying small dishes and drinks. We had some really cool izakaya experiences where we mingled with locals, tried dishes we wouldn’t have otherwise, and had an overall great evening .

You can find izakayas all around the country, but here are some famous areas to hop from one izakaya to another:

• Tokyo: Yakitori Alley, Memory Lane a.k.a. “Piss Alley”
• Osaka: streets just outside of Dotonbori 
• Osaka: Shinsekai

Good to know:  some izakayas charge a “cover fee”, which varies based on the place (we paid on average around 300 yen per person). They might bring a small (aka tiny!) little dish that is supposedly what you’re paying for (as well as your seat).

If you are hesitant about going to an izakaya on your own,  Magical Trip  offers tours where you can share the experience with a local and other travelers. Oh, and it is quite helpful to be with someone who speaks a bit of Japanese when ordering because many izakayas don’t have English menus.  

4. Explore teamLab’s digital art installations

Lose yourself in an immersive art experience where you’re encouraged to kick off your shoes and connect with the installations, blurring the boundaries between art and reality. 

The Tokyo-based art collective known as teamLab is famous for creating art installations that are unmatched. 

In 2019, we visited teamLab Borderless ( now reopened in a new location! ). We loved it so much that when we planned to return to Tokyo in 2023, one of the first things we did was purchase tickets to teamLab PLANETS.

This uber-Instagrammable art experience features crystal “rain”, giant balls that change colors, koi fish that are projected onto water that you walk through, and live orchids that lower down from the ceiling… anyone else reminded of Willy Wonka?! 

The experience is hard to sum up in words. So stop thinking about it and just book your tickets already! Speaking of which, this is definitely something you want to purchase in advance as they sell out every day .

TeamLAB Borderless

The TeamLab Borderless Museum has reopened in it’s new location in Tokyo!

• Location:  teamLab Borderless Tokyo , Azabudai Hills Garden Plaza B B1, 1-2-4 Azabudai, Minato-ku, Tokyo
• Borderless is CLOSED on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of the month. (You will see that you cannot purchase tickets for these dates.)
• Entrance fee:  3,800 Yen for adults (~$25 USD) 

Psst! One of our biggest pieces of advice is to  purchase your tickets ahead of time . 

TeamLAB PLANETS

PLANETS will only be open until 2027, so add this to your Japan itinerary while you can. 

• Location: teamLab PLANETS Tokyo , Toyosu 6-1-16, Koto-ku, Tokyo
• Hours: Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; Saturday – Sunday and holidays, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
• Entrance fee: 3,200 Yen for adults (~$23 USD) 

teamLab Borderless: How to Visit Tokyo’s Digital Art Museum

Arguably one of the most Instagrammable spots in Tokyo, teamLab Borderless Digital Art Museum is an experience unlike anything you’ve ever seen. A combination of lights and audio creates interactive art that anyone can enjoy. If you’re traveling to Japan, teamLab Borderless Tokyo should definitely be on your itinerary.

5. Go on a food tour

Calling all foodies! If you want to try as much Japanese food as possible and learn about the cuisine on a deeper level, a food tour is where it’s at!

We discovered food tours a couple of years ago, and are kind of obsessed now.  Not only do you get to eat at the hidden gems around the city, but you’ll learn things most other tourists are oblivious to.  Oh, and you’ll get more than one freakin’ incredible meal. Need we say more?!

We went on two food tours with Arigato, one in Osaka and one in Tokyo. While they were both good, we really, really loved the tour in the Shinsekai district of Osaka.

Food Tours in Japan to try:

• Retro Osaka Street Food Tour : Explore the unique district of Shinsekai, which dates back to the early 1900s.
• Old Town Tokyo Food Tour : walk the streets of charming Yanaka neighborhood, which still has the small-town feel to it. 
• Kyoto Sake Brewery Tour : Get to know how sake is produced using this 400-year old brewing tradition. 
• Crazy Cute Kawaii Food Tour : If you’re into all things cute, the food tour in Harajuku might be just up your alley!

6. Take a Japanese cooking class

Take your knowledge of  Japanese cuisine  a bit deeper and learn what goes into some of your favorite dishes…

We think  taking cooking classes on our travels  is one of the best ways to learn about a country’s cuisine and culture. 

On our first trip to Japan, we took a sushi-making class, and on our second visit we learned how to make ramen from scratch. 

Japanese Cooking Classes:

• Make 3 Types of Ramen from Scratch – Osaka ( Check Availability )
• Learn How to Make Decorative Sushi Rolls – Kyoto ( Check Availability )
• Cook Okonomiyaki (Japanese Pizza) and 2 Side Dishes – Tokyo ( Check Availability )
• Exploring the Tsukiji Fish Market & Making Sushi with Chef – Tokyo ( Check Availability )

7. Visit shrines and temples

Before we delve into this one, let’s have a quick chat about some basic differences between shrines and temples…

Shrines: Shinto religion

• You know it’s a shrine when there is a large  torii  gate at the entrance; you know, those orange 3-sided structures that are an icon of Japan? 

Temples: Buddhist

• Temples often have a statue of Buddha, incense burners, and some have a cemetery attached to them. Monks live and train in temples, and you may even see some walking around at the larger temples.

There are countless shrines and temples around Japan, from the ultra-famous to the small neighborhood shrines and temples for locals to visit regularly. Seeing a few of each during your trip to Japan is one of the best ways to get a feel for the country’s culture and religion.

Insider Tip:  While you’re visiting shrine or temple in Japan, you may notice small wooden plaques with writing that are hanging on a fence or gate of some sort. These are called  ema , and all visitors are invited to purchase one and write a prayer or wish on them. It is said that the spirits, or  kami , will see your wishes. This is originally a Shinto custom, but over the years it has spread to some temples too.

Here are some of the more famous shrines and temples:

Fushimi Inari Shrine

If you’ve seen “Memoirs of a Geisha”, you’ll recognize these famous orange gates of the Fushimi Inari Shrine. Though I’d learned about these extensively in art history during university, they were far more spectacular in person than I could have imagined. 

Photo Tip:  The beginning of the pathway is packed with people stopping for pictures. Keep walking past the crowds until the path starts going uphill. You will be able to get a picture without anyone obstructing your shot. You will also reach a lookout point and be rewarded with a view overlooking Kyoto.

In order to walk through all of the gates, you’ll need to set aside a better portion of a day.  But if your time in Kyoto is limited, don’t fret! An hour or two should be sufficient to explore a large portion of this shrine and leave without feeling like you’re missing out. 

If this magical sight is on your Japan bucket list, be sure to check out our guide to Fushimi Inari Shrine for fun facts and insider tips that will help you plan the perfect visit.

Psst! Check out our list of the  most beautiful places in Japan  you’ll have to see to believe!

Kinkaku-ji Temple (aka “Golden Pavilion”)

Also known as the “Golden Temple”, the Kinkaku-ji Temple is one of the most famous sights in Kyoto. And as we found out, it is popular for a good reason. 

Its exterior is completely covered in gold leaf and makes a stunning reflection in the lake beside it. It is definitely worth a visit, but be warned – the grounds are teeming with tour groups at practically all hours.

The morning is said to be the least busy, but dusk the most beautiful. Viewing the golden temple as the sun starts to set is spectacular.

Shitenoji Temple, Osaka

While in Osaka , make a visit to Shitenoji, which is the most important Buddhist structure in the city, and one of the oldest temples in Japan. 

Meiji Shrine, Tokyo

Not far from downtown Tokyo, Meiji Shrine is an escape from the city’s bustling streets. Unlike many of Japan’s temples, the structures have not been brightly painted. Instead, the wooden gates were left in their natural state, making these forested grounds all the more serene.

If you visit Meiji Shrine on a Saturday, you may be lucky enough to witness a traditional Japanese wedding ceremony, like we did!

Senso-ji, Tokyo

Located in the historical neighborhood of Asakusa, Senso-ji is Tokyo’s oldest and most famous temple. It’s popularity means it is crowded at all times, but it is still very worthy of a visit while you’re in Tokyo.

Psst! If you plan on spending some time in Japan’s capital city (you should!), be sure to read our guide on where to stay in Tokyo for the best neighborhoods and hotel recommendations!

8. See snow monkeys at Jigokudani Park

Nestled in a river valley, Jigokudani Monkey Park is known for Japanese macaques that congregate in the hot pools during the cooler months of the year. 

You’ll see moms cuddling their babies and male monkeys trying to intimate the others. They each have their own personalities, and observing them is truly a sight to behold.

We’ve seen these famous snow monkeys two times now, and think it is a fun spot to add to your Japan itinerary.

Getting there: Located in Nagano prefecture (yes, the host city of the 1998 Winter Olympics), you can get to Jigokudani Park as a (very long) day trip from Tokyo. Alternatively, there is lots to see and do in this region, so we’d recommend staying in the area if you have the time.

Driving yourself? Be sure to read our guide to renting a car in Japan . It’s packed with things you need to know before you get behind the wheel, as well as insider tips to help you feel confident on the road.

9. Take a ride on a bullet train

There’s something wonderful about train journeys, don’t you think? 

Pop on headphones, sit back and look out the windows at the towns and life passing by. Any route through the mountains or along the coastline is especially beautiful.

Japanese bullet trains (also known as Shinkansen ) are famously efficient and clean, so your journey is sure to be a comfortable one.

Insider Tip: Have a good book and some snacks on hand (it’s fine to eat on the Shinkansen trains, but not the local, short-distance ones). 

If you are traveling to more than two cities in Japan, you will most likely save money if you buy a JR Pass. Find out if a JR Pass is worthwhile for your trip .

10. Glimpse Mount Fuji

Seeing Mount Fuji in all her glory is at the top of many travelers’ Japan bucket lists, and for good reason – this iconic mountain is almost synonymous with Japan and is truly incredible to see in person.

However, it’s good to know that Mount Fuji is known for being shy. In fact, the mountain was completely hidden in the clouds during our first two visits to Japan. But on our third trip, she proudly showed her face and it was worth the wait. We finally got to see for ourselves what all the hype is about!

We have a Mount Fuji day trip guide that is packed with info on how, when, and where to catch a glimpse of the famous peak, as well as other fun things to do in the area and some mind-blowing facts we’re betting you didn’t know!

Best places to see Mount Fuji:

On a clear day, you can glimpse Mount Fuji in the distance throughout Tokyo. However, if you want a closer up view, here are some of the most iconic: 

• Hakone: This small town situated on Lake Ashin is a great place to see Mount Fuji and relax in an onsen at one of the many guesthouses.

Insider Tip: While in Hakone, be sure to eat the famous black eggs. They have been hard-boiled in the nearby hot springs and are said to lengthen your life by 7 years. We shall see!

• Five Lakes region: Like the name infers, this region covers 5 lakes, all of which have fabulous views of Mount Fuji. 
• Fujiyoshida: If you want a view of where Fuji is set against an urban cityscape in a nature-meets-city juxtaposition, this is the nearest town to the mountain and makes a really unique sight. The iconic photo from this city is on Honcho Street.   

Best time to see Mount Fuji:

Statistically speaking, you will have the best chance of seeing Mount Fuji between the months of October and February , with the worst chance of visibility being in July. 

That said, our first visit to Japan was in early February (aka a month with one of the best chances of visibility), and it was completely covered in fog during our entire stay. 

Moral of the story: It is never guaranteed that you’ll be able to see this notoriously shy mountain, so be sure to have a few cloudy day activities in mind (and a good attitude!) just in case.

Our thoughts: We think it is particularly photogenic in autumn, with fall foliage all around and with a good chance of seeing the peak covered in a blanket of white after a snow storm.

11. Try a Japanese photo booth

Hopping inside a Japanese photo booth, or purikura, is a quick, yet memorable experience. 

You can find photo booths in many arcades, and sometimes simply typing “purikura” into Google Maps will show you any nearby.  The best part is this experience takes less than 10 minutes and costs around 400 yen, meaning any traveler can squeeze it into their Japan itinerary, no matter how tight! 

And at the end, you’re left with an inexpensive and ridiculously “Japanese” souvenir that’ll make you smile (or cry laughing!) each time you see it.

12. Wander through a bamboo forest

The most famous bamboo forest in Japan is undoubtedly in Arashiyama. Located just outside the center of Kyoto, you’ll feel a world away.  The grove of giant, swaying bamboo stalks is beautiful year-round and emanates tranquility.  Well, that is if you can experience tranquility amongst a crowd… 

This bamboo forest is stunning, no arguing that, but it can get pretty packed, especially during  Japan’s high tourist season . We visited during low season (February) and went early, so we didn’t have too much of an issue with crowds. However, we know this isn’t always the case. We still think it’s worth visiting, as long as your expectations are managed.

Even so, we think it is well worth a visit and will certainly be one of your favorite photo ops in Japan!

Also, there are other, less crowded bamboo forests around the country. Here are just a couple:

• Kamakura:  just a 10-minute bus ride from the train station is the Hokokuji Bamboo Forest. It’s small but beautiful. And while you’re in town, might as well swing by the Great Buddha of Kamakura that dates back to the year 1252. 
• Nakasendo Trail:  there is a portion of this trail where there is a wild bamboo grove. No paths, no crowds, just bamboo!

13. Explore a Japanese castle

When picturing castles, Europe is usually the first region of the world to come to mind. 

But Japan holds its own, and has some very interesting fortresses for visitors to explore and gain a better understanding of this country’s history.

There are a dozen castles still standing in Japan, but here are some of the most famous (and easily accessible):

• Osaka  – in the city and accessible by the metro, this historic castle played a major role in unifying Japan in the 16th century. 
• Himeji – if visiting Hiroshima from Osaka , you could stop off in Himeji and explore the beautiful grounds of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Himeji Castle.
• Kanazawa  – located in the center of the city, this castle is adjacent to the famous Kenroku-en, one of three “perfect gardens” of Japan.
• Matsumoto  – Also known as the “Crow Castle” for its black color, this castle is especially beautiful during the cherry blossom season.  

Psst! We have a list of must-see landmarks in Japan that’s sure to give you some inspiration for your itinerary!

14. Dine at a Theme Restaurant (or 2!)

Theme restaurants and cafes are huge in Japan, and there is such a variety that every type of traveler should be able to find one that appeals to them. 

And while we’d definitely recommend trying out a theme restaurant, just don’t expect the best meal of your time in Japan. Keep in mind that you come not for the food, but for the atmosphere.

Presentation may be on point, but the food itself at most of these establishments is, well, mediocre. We’re just trying to help manage expectations!

Top theme restaurants and cafes in Tokyo

Check out these Tokyo theme restaurants that range from cute and quirky to “what did I just witness?!” . And while you’re at it, we have a whole list of other cool things to do in Tokyo at night !

• Pokemon Cafe : Pretty much just what it sounds like — Pokemon-themed drinks and food!
• Flower Cafe : If you’re looking for an experience that is not so showy or cutesy, the Aoyama Flower Market Tea House may be just what you’re looking for. Set inside a flower market, this cafe is undoubtedly beautiful.
• 2D Cafe : This quirky cafe will make you feel as if you’ve hopped into a drawing. The restaurant’s black and white interior looks just like a cartoon drawing. They specialize in bubble teas and Korean-style shaved ice dessert, which pop against the 2D background!
• Ninja restaurant : This is a full-blown experience, and one of the only theme restaurants where the food is actually known to be quite good. Dine-in what appears to be an Edo-era village, complete with waterfalls, ponds and the sounds of chirping crickets. And be entertained by ninja performances at your table. With set menus starting at 5500 yen, this experience does not come cheap, but the rave reviews speak for themselves.
• Vampire Cafe : If creepy is your thing, you might enjoy this restaurant which is characterized by wall-to-wall red velvet, servers in French maid costumes, and blood-inspired drinks and treats.
• Kagaya : It seems the only theme to this bar/cafe is insanity. Patrons can expect screaming, costumes, and puppets… If you’re looking for an experience that leaves you wondering, “What the hell just happened?!” this might be it.
• The “maid” servers cater to their (mostly) male guests, but also don’t tolerate rude or unwarranted behavior (which can be common). Maid Cafes have a focus on being very cute – think singing songs, taking selfies, and serving latte art.
• There has been a bit of controversy surrounding maid cafes, with some rumors connecting them to prostitution rings. Other sources swear they are totally innocent. Do your own research and decide if this would be an enjoyable experience for you.

A note on animal cafes: We’d urge you to practice caution and do a bit of research before choosing to go to an animal cafe. We’ve been to both dog and cat cafes, which seemed okay since these animals tend to like attention from people and are quite domestic.

However, we’ve heard pretty bad things about some of the other animal cafes that can be found in Japan, like owl, sheep, hedgehog, fox, etc. Many of these animals aren’t meant to be around people or constantly stimulated. If you really want to go to an animal cafe, cat, dog or rabbit cafes seem to be the best options. 

Related: Read up on our responsible travel tips before your trip to Japan!

15. Take in the history in Hiroshima

Hiroshima is well worth a place on your  Japan itinerary , especially if you’re a history buff. Visiting the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum will teach you more than you ever could learn in history books. 

Tip:  If you’re planning on staying in Osaka, you can easily make a  day trip from Osaka to Hiroshima  to explore the highlights of the city. And it’s even included in your  JRail Pass !

As a quick refresher, Hiroshima was bombed by Americans during World War II, making it the first city targeted with a nuclear weapon. Much of the city was destroyed, and while it’s unclear the exact number of direct victims of the atomic bomb, there are estimates that more than 160,000 people died as a result of the impact and the after effects.

Even if you’re not a “museum person”, a visit to the Peace Memorial Museum is a must.  You’ll find photos and personal stories from the time of World War II, which makes this tragedy come to life for visitors.

On display are artifacts from the bombing, including clothing that was worn by victims and survivors at the moment of impact. Seeing the shredded fabric with your own eyes, knowing someone was wearing it, makes an impact. 

After visiting the museum, explore the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, which has informational plaques, dedications and remnants from the bombing.

As you can imagine, it is heavy stuff. While painful, it is so important for people to see places like this in order to have a better understanding of our world history, and to move forward without repeating the mistakes of our past.  

More things to do in Hiroshima:  And on a lighter note, Hiroshima is actually a very cool and modern city with lots more to do. We’ve rounded up all the highlights including visiting the city’s castle and Japanese garden, eating regional cuisine you can only find here, and making a trip to the nearby Miyajima Island in our  day trip guide for Hiroshima .

16. Traverse the Japanese Alps

Europe isn’t the only region with alps.  In fact, Japan has its very own alps that are absolutely breathtaking, and somewhat off the beaten path for foreign tourists.

Depending on  what time of year you’re visiting Japan , you can expect a very different view: a towering snow wall in early spring and stunning fall foliage in autumn, for example.

We have an entire guide that will help you  plan your trip to the Japanese Alps via the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route .

17. Eat Sushi at a fish market

Sushi enthusiasts and newbies alike should try as much sushi as possible in Japan. And there’s no place to get it more fresh than from the source… aka the fish markets themselves. 

Early each morning at fish markets around the country, fishermen arrive with the catch of the day to be auctioned off.  Chefs and suppliers come to bid on the fish before it’s taken away to become yummy, yummy sushi for some lucky people. 

Now if you want to get the freshest of the fresh sushi – literally made just moments after the fish is sold – you’re going to need to get up early. That’s right; sushi for breakfast! (Not as bad of an idea as it sounds!)

So where can you find fish markets in Japan?  In many coastal towns you’ll find fish markets, but here are some of the most famous and accessible fish markets in the country:

• Toyosu Fish Market : Opened in 2018 to replace the older Tsukiji Market, visitors can now observe the early morning tuna auctions in this more modern facility (albeit lacking character), or eat at one of the many sushi restaurants inside. 
• Tsukiji Fish Market : While Tokyo’s oldest and most famous fish market is no longer home to the famous early morning tuna auctions, there are still vendors and fresh fish to be found in this arguably more authentic market. This may not last for long, however, as there are plans to develop this sought-after piece of real estate.
• Kanazawa Fish Market : One of the most famous fish markets in the country, there are many restaurants inside selling all sorts of dishes.
• Katsuura Fish Market : If you’ve just completed the Kumano Kodo Trail (see #1 on this list), you’ll likely be staying in or near Katsuura, so be sure to check out their morning fish market, which is known to bring in the most tuna in the entire country. You can observe the tuna auctions weekdays at 7 a.m., and you can get a fresh sushi breakfast in the nearby small indoor market.

Not sure what to order when it comes to sushi? Well… there’s an app for that. Here is a list of the most helpful  Japanese travel apps  that will improve your trip to Japan.

18. Stay in a Ryokan

Staying at a ryokan is an experience you can only have in Japan.  This type of traditional Japanese inn is characterized by tatami-matted rooms and exceptional hospitality. 

Often times ryokan guests are provided with yukata robes and access to private on-site onsen. Many ryokan also serves elaborate meals, which are usually included in the nightly rate. 

19. Stay in a capsule hotel

Spending the night in an enclosed space may sound a little… coffin-y. But, I am here to tell you that it is far less sketchy (and claustrophobic!) than it sounds.

With millions of people and limited space, it makes sense why capsule hotels are such a popular type of accommodation in Japan.

Speaking of popularity, there are tons of options meaning you can choose from the most basic of basic capsule hotels all the way to some pretty plush ones where the price reflects the level of comfort. We chose one that was somewhere in the middle.

It wasn’t as cramped as we were expecting! Each capsule hotel is different, but ours resembled a super scaled down hotel room, complete with a mini desk and television. It wasn’t so much claustrophobic as it was  cozy.

We didn’t love the fact that we had to stay apart – I know, I know, we’re obnoxious! – but it was still a fun Japanese experience we’re glad we tried. 

Side Note:  We learned that there are some capsule hotels that have “couple capsules”, so you might want to search those out if you don’t wanna spend the night apart from your hunny. No judgment here!

There are capsule hotels around the country, but you’ll find the most options in Tokyo and Osaka. 

20. Walk the Nakasendō Trail

The Nakasendō Trail is an ancient route that spanned more than 330 miles to connect Kyoto and Tokyo and was used in the Edo Period. While modern development has taken over many portions of the trail, there are still a few sections that remain more or less in their original form and can still be walked.

One of the most popular sections is in the Kiso Valley and runs between the small towns of Tsumago and Magome.

This section of the trail is roughly 8 kilometers (5 miles) and is relatively flat. It should take between 2 – 3 hours, depending on how often you stop (and how many photos you take!). 

We’d recommend staying at  Magome Chaya , which is a simple ryokan that serves an INCREDIBLE kaiseki dinner.

21. Eat ALL the ramen

Oh, ramen. Piping hot broth, slightly chewy noodles, a perfectly gooey soft boiled egg, fresh scallions and a depth of flavors that makes you keep going back for more, bite after bite.  Forget the instant noodles you feasted on after drunken nights in college. The gourmet version is leaps and bounds more delicious. 

Each ramen shop has its own flavors and specialties, so you’ll want to sample as much as you can while in Japan.

Good to know:  At most ramen shops, you’ll buy a ticket from a vending machine and present the ticket to an employee. Ramen shops are considered somewhat “fast food”, and your bowl of hot noodly goodness shouldn’t take long to appear right in front of you.

22. Drive a real life Mario Kart

If you ever wished you could hop into your Nintendo 64 and actually race alongside Mario dressed as Princess Peach (is this anyone else’s fantasy?!), you can do just that in Japan!

Don a costume and get behind the wheel of a very real go-kart which you will drive on the streets of Osaka or Tokyo (this experience is offered in both cities). 

Important Tip:  If this experience is a “must” on your Japan trip, be sure to bring an international driver’s license with you. Ben had one but I didn’t and we were unable to do this tour. Booo! I guess we’ll just have to come back to Japan for a third time…

23. Wander through Japanese Gardens

While you can find Japanese gardens all around the world, the best place to glimpse these immaculate creations is, of course, in Japan!

Japanese Gardens change with the seasons and are beautiful year-round, with springtime blossoms, fall foliage or even a dusting of snow. 

Here are some of the most famous Japanese gardens:

• Kenrokuen , Kanazawa
• Korakuen , Okayama
• Kairaku-en , Mito
• Tenryū-ji , Kyoto
• Shinjuku Gyoen , Tokyo
• Imperial Palace , Tokyo

24. Bow at the famous Nara Deer

If you want to channel your inner Snow White and get friendly with a deer (or 20!), a stop in the ancient capital of Nara should be on your Japan itinerary. 

Well-known for its ancient temples, and even more famous for the deer who saunter about them, Nara is just a short 45-minute train ride from both Osaka and Kyoto , making it a popular day trip from either city.

Don’t miss this! We’ve created the perfect Nara day trip itinerary , including must-see attractions and hidden gems (plus a free map!).

According to the traditional Shinto religion, the deer in Nara Park are said to be messengers of the gods, and are therefore sacred animals that are allowed to roam freely. And the 1,000-plus deer who call the city and Nara Park home will not flee when they see you.

In fact, it’s much the opposite. They have learned to bow to humans in exchange for food. Yep, you read that right: they will actually bow. And they are everywhere. 

Psst! Before you hop on a train, make sure you read these tips for feeding the Nara deer (including what NOT to do).

While Nara is most known for the resident deer, there’s a lot of historic temples and shrines and some excellent foodie stops.

We’ve been to Nara twice now (in 2019 and 2023), and while we noticed it is much busier on our most recent visit than it was just a few years ago, it is still worth adding to your trip as there aren’t any places in the world quite like it.

25. Experience Kawaii Culture

Kawaii  is the Japanese word for “cute”, and it won’t take long to realize just how big the kawaii culture is. It should come as no surprise that Japan is the birthplace of Hello Kitty and many equally cute characters that have attracted cult followings.

And you don’t have to look far to see examples of how this obsession with cuteness has impacted food, clothing trends, and well, pretty much all aspects of life that can be described as “cute”.

The best place in the country to experience this ubiquitous kawaii culture is in the Harajuku neighborhood of Tokyo.  You’ll see young women who are dressed almost as lifelike dolls, and you’ll pass by people holding rainbow cotton candy (aka “Fairy Floss,” which is a much cuter sounding name). Ice cream cones have cute cartoon faces and pigtails are more abundant than in a kindergarten class.

We should warn you, this street gets busy. Like,  really  busy.  But that’s kind of part of the whole experience. So be prepared for a wild and very, very  cute  time!

26. Eat a Kaiseki meal

If you like food as much as we do, you won’t want to miss a kaiseki meal during your trip to Japan. This is essentially a large meal with all sorts of small dishes, so you’ll get to try all sorts of things. 

Kaiseki meals are commonly included in higher-end ryokans (traditional Japanese inns), and it is usually a highlight of the stay.  Special care is put into the presentation of each small dish, making kaiseki meals especially beautiful to photograph. (Ben always says our cameras get to eat before he does!)

Tip:  If you are vegetarian, a great way to try a kaiseki meal is at a Buddhist temple stay (for example, at Koyasan). All food served is strictly Buddhist vegetarian, whereas kaiseki meals often include a lot of meat and fish. This article has more info about  traveling in Japan as a vegetarian .

27. Go scuba diving in Japan

Have you ever considered scuba diving in Japan?! We hadn’t either…  But our friend Corinne has been living and diving in Japan for the past 2 years, and she swears it is a dive location that should be on your radar! 

We asked her to explain  what makes diving in Japan so special , and here’s what she had to say: 

“From the tropical waters of Okinawa (21-30C) to the temperate waters along the mainland (11C-26C) and all the way up to the icy waters of the northern island of Hokkaido (3-6C), there’s something for every diver. The biodiversity of marine creatures is extraordinary, and you will quickly find yourself amongst fields of brilliantly colored soft coral, moray eels poking their heads out to watch you drift by while schools of fish swim all around you. For macro lovers, there are a plethora of adorable nudibranchs (there’s even a Pikachu one!!), seahorses, and if you’re lucky you might spot the elusive blue-ringed octopus. On the opposite end of the spectrum, Mikomoto on the Izu peninsula and Yonaguni Island just north of Okinawa, offer drift dives with hundreds of schooling hammerheads.” 

Check out our  ultimate guide to diving in Japan  for a detailed break down of the best dive sites, and everything you need to know to plan an epic diving trip.

28. Witness sumo wrestlers in action

There aren’t any sports more closely linked to Japan as sumo wrestling. While traveling in Japan, it is a pretty cool experience to see a match in action.

However, professional sumo matches only take place 6 times per year : once during each odd-numbered month. Additionally, they are set in specific locations, so it can be difficult to fit it into your trip.

The professional sumo match schedule is as follows:

• January: Tokyo
• March: Osaka
• July: Nagoya
• September: Tokyo
• November: Fukuoka

If that lines up with your Japan itinerary, try your best to squeeze it in – we’ve heard it’s a pretty cool experience. 

Interesting Fact: Sumo wrestling is not an Olympic Sport, but is recognized by the Olympic Committee, meaning that there is a chance it could be part of the games someday. However, with the 2020 Summer Olympic Games in Tokyo, sumo will most likely be part of the games in some way, Like in the opening ceremonies.

Other sumo experiences in Japan

However, if you are traveling in Japan during an even-numbered month like us (womp womp), you can still have a sumo experience.

Tokyo is home to sumo stables, which is where the wrestlers train and live. And if you’re lucky, you can sit in on one of their morning practices. It is a pretty surreal experience to watch the wrestlers go through their routine, albeit different than seeing a professional match.

I do think it’s important to mention that as an observer, you have to follow a very strict set of rules:

• No moving 
• No exiting (if you leave the room, you cannot reenter)
• No eating or drinking

*Photographs are fine (without flash), and you will have the opportunity to take pictures with the wrestlers after their practice is over (if they oblige).

They don’t want you to think of it as a tourist experience , because it’s really not about you. The wrestling stable is simply giving you permission to observe their wrestlers. There are a handful of chairs and thin cushions to sit on, and as guests, you will sit there until their practice is over (which can vary day to day).

We had a flight in the afternoon, and we were getting a little nervous towards the end because we weren’t sure exactly how much longer the session would go. 

Good to know:  The practice can get long and repetitive. Your legs may hurt from sitting in the same position, and you may get thirsty. Just keep these things in mind, especially if you’re traveling with children. 

So is it worthwhile?  For us, it was an experience that was fascinating at first, but got a bit long in the middle. I was relieved when we could get up and walk around at the end, but I was really happy we did it. Make sense? 

How to do it on your own

We’ve heard that it is free to observe morning practices, however, you must call the stable and ask permission in advance (which isn’t always granted), so knowing Japanese is a must.

If you have a Japanese friend or a very friendly hotel staff member, this might be an option. Though a much easier way to arrange this is to  book a tour through Magical Trip .

They take care of everything for you and give you some background information about the sumo wrestlers. We were hosted by Magical Trip and we would recommend going through them since it is so simple.

29. Spot a Geisha

Translating to “woman of art”, geisha are trained in dance, music, traditional arts, and the very complicated art of communication. They make appearances at dinners in ryotei (traditional restaurants) and ochaya (teahouses) where they entertain guests who pay large sums to be in the presence of these highly skilled women.

But even if you don’t have big bucks to spend on one of these experiences, it is still possible to see a geisha or maiko (geisha’s apprentice) during your trip to Japan.

Good to know:  While we’re referring to them as geisha for the purpose of this article, the correct term for these women in the Kyoto region is geiko. (Geisha is the correct term in Tokyo, and is generally more well-known among foreigners.)

Where to see a Geisha

In the 1920’s there were more than 80,000 geisha in Japan. Today there are only 2,000 of these female performers who continue to follow the strict lifestyle, so spotting them is special.

The best place to spot a geisha (outside of seeing them in a paid performance) is to take a stroll around the lantern-lit Pontocho Alley in Kyoto at dusk and you may just be rewarded with a rare sighting of a  geisha  or  maiko .

The evening hours (between 5:30 pm and 6 pm) are when they make their way to one of the many traditional restaurants on this street in the Gion district where they hold performances.  This will be your best chance at seeing their exquisite silk kimonos and painted faces up close.

Other historic neighborhoods in Kyoto where you’ll have a chance of spotting geisha/geiko and maiko:

• Miyagawacho
• Gion Higashi
• Kamishichiken (near Kitano Tenmangu Shrine)

Have your camera ready, because when you do see a geisha, it will be a fleeting moment as she scurries in wooden sandals to her next appointment. While taking photos of geisha is generally acceptable, be sure you do so in a respectful manner. Don’t get in their way, and keep a reasonable distance. 

30. Explore one of Japan’s preserved historic villages

Japan is often applauded for its modern infrastructure, but the architecture of the past is just as endearing. Okay, let’s be real…  way more  endearing.

Immerse yourself in one of Japan’s preserved historic villages, and imagine what it would have been like to live there. 

Here are a handful of the most famous preserved historic villages in Japan:

• Hida Folk Village:  Just outside the city center of Takayama, this historic village is pretty easy to get to.
• Psst! Read up on  how to get to Shirakawago  because getting there is not included in your JR Pass.
• Gokayama:  Situated in Toyama prefecture, this historic village isn’t as famous as Shirakawago or Hida Folk Village, but it still offers historic charm.
• Oshino-mura:  Near Mount Fuji, this makes a nice stop if you are spending time near Japan’s most iconic mountain.

31. Do a temple stay at Koyasan

Not far from bustling Osaka lies the tranquil Mount Koya (or Koyasan). Dotted with ancient Buddhist relics, vegetarian eateries, and temples that allow guests to spend the night,  Koyasan is a peaceful escape from Japan’s major cities.

If doing a Koyasan “temple stay” is on your Japan bucket list, here are a couple of things that are good to know:

• Temple stays are more or less a stay at a ryokan  (traditional inn), and less a stay with the monks. You will eat a Buddhist vegetarian dinner and breakfast and be able to observe the monks’ morning ritual alongside other guests. Just to give you an idea of what to expect!
• If you’re looking for a more affordable temple stay  (they can get quite expensive), we stayed at  Koyasan Zofukuin  and would recommend it. Delicious food, beautiful facilities, tranquil garden, friendly staff, good location. 
• Okunoin Cemetery is incredible.  We’d recommend setting a good chunk of time to exploring as it is pretty large. We heard there is a cemetery night tour after we had left, and thought it looked kind of interesting so you might want to check that out. But definitely go during the day too.
• Have lunch at  Bon-on-sha  and enjoy their yummy vegetarian food and a cute, artsy atmosphere. They serve a “plate of the day” which has several small bits of different veg dishes (there is a vegan option too). For a bit more money, it comes with a coffee drink and a slice of the cake of the day.

32. Participate in a Japanese tea ceremony

Matcha is everywhere in Japan – a popular ice cream flavor, in pastries, and even appearing in KitKat Bars. Yep, it’s true.

While you can just eat ALL the matcha, one way to get a deeper appreciation and understanding for this ubiquitous green powder is to take part in a tea ceremony. 

We didn’t plan on partaking in a tea ceremony at all, but “accidentally” went to two different ceremonies:

Our first tea ceremony experience

As we were wandering around the famous Japanese Gardens in Kanazawa, we stumbled upon a traditional teahouse.

When we saw there was a tea ceremony about to take place, we paid 700 yen to partake. (The less expensive 500 yen set was already sold out).

This ceremony didn’t really have much explanation, but each guest was brought their tea and sweet with a bit of a ceremonial gesture. After it was finished, we were free to explore the teahouse and grounds for a bit.

Budget Tip:  If you’re visiting a Japanese Garden, see if there is a ceremony taking place in their teahouse. This is an affordable option if you’re on a budget but want a brief tea ceremony experience.

Our second Japanese tea ceremony

Our second encounter was during our  Tokyo Food Tour with Arigato . This was a private ceremony , and we were able to choose our cups from their collection of ceramics that are hundreds of years old.

The gestures were explained and we had a chance to ask questions.

If you’d like to book your own tea ceremony, take a look at Get Your Guide because they have tea ceremonies in multiple cities around Japan. 

33.  Attend a Japanese baseball game 

This all-American sport takes on a life of its own in Japan, and going to a baseball game is a totally different experience than you’d have in the US.

For one, you can bring in your own food and booze.  Yep, that’s right!

The drawback for any drinks you bring is you have to open them upon entering the stadium, and the security guards will pour it into a cup for you. So it’s best to just bring one or two, and then purchase another (if you’re so inclined) from the cute and super hard-working beer girls!

Another key difference between baseball games in Japan versus North America is the atmosphere.  Games in Japan (especially for popular teams like Tokyo’s Yomiuri Giants!) get wild!  

The atmosphere is more like a high stakes professional hockey game, with chants, yelling, boozing, cheerleaders, and fan sections. 

How to attend a Japanese baseball game 

Depending on who is playing, you may need to reserve tickets well in advance.  For less popular teams, you’ll be able to buy your tickets at the stadium for a fraction of the cost. 

However, if you want a reserved seat of your own at a popular game, it’s best to make a booking online before your trip (here is the info for  booking at the Tokyo Dome ).

You can try your luck at getting tickets at 7-Eleven or through your hotel concierge once you arrive in Japan, but in our experience they were all sold out during the time we were there. 

Even if you’re not able to get a seat, fret not! You can still purchase “standing room” tickets on the day of at the stadium. 

Our experience 

We went to a Giants vs. BayStars game (a busy game!), and were able to purchase “standing room” tickets at the stadium even after the game had started.

Admittedly, we didn’t have the best view of the game, but it was fun to walk around the stadium and soak up the atmosphere. Plus, it was a fraction of the price we would have paid by booking through a company. We paid just 1000 yen ($9.13 USD) each for our tickets!

34. Go skiing in Japan

If you’re traveling to  Japan in the winter , we’d highly recommend going skiing. Japan is known for some of the best powder skiing in the world, and it’s a dream of our to get there for it someday. So if you’re lucky enough to shred some pow, let us know how it goes!

35. Go shopping for Japanese souvenirs

Shopping districts are plentiful in every Japanese city, packed with clothing stores, cosmetic shops, discount vendors, and souvenir stores. Even if you’re not really into shopping (I’m with you!),  chances are you’ll want a memento – or a few – to remind you of Japan.

There are so many beautiful things to buy in Japan that it would be a shame to come home empty-handed. We’ve actually rounded up some of the  best things to buy in Japan  to help you plan out which souvenirs are worth the space in your suitcase.

36. Sing karaoke

Calling all singers (and those who like to  pretend  they’re singers… aka ME!). Karaoke is a big deal in many parts of Asia, and if you’re into music, you’ll definitely want to experience Japan’s karaoke culture.

Karaoke rooms are rented spaces where you can belt out your favorite tunes in privacy or in the company of friends. Most can be rented by the hour and serve beverages and snacks. 

Psst!  If you’d rather not rent a private room, we’ve heard good things about Diamond Bar in Golden Gai. 

37. Cross Shibuya Scramble

Known as the busiest intersection in the world, the Shibuya crossing is everything I imagined Tokyo to be: Neon lights aglow and people walking in all directions in organized chaos. 

This spot, where five intersections converge is known famously as “the scramble” and should be a must on your  Tokyo to-do list . And it doesn’t take long to get here and experience the madness. 

Just watch our quick time-lapse video below so you know what to expect!

View the crossing from above at Shibuya Sky

An alternative to having eyes on the ground is viewing the chaos from above. The Shibuya Sky rooftop observatory is the newest addition to central Tokyo’s lineup of rooftop views. 

At approximately 230 meters (~755 ft) above the intersection, it’s the tallest skyscraper in Shibuya. The open-air observatory offers 360º views of the city and on a clear day, you can even catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji in the distance. 

• Entrance fee: 2000 yen for adults (~$15 USD); 1800 yen if you book online in advance (we’d highly recommend booking in advance because it is sold out almost every day)
• Hours: 10 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.

Other viewpoints: There’s also a Starbucks that overlooks the madness. Though we will warn you, the Starbucks is something of an attraction itself, and is always crowded. It is even said to be the busiest location of this coffee chain in the world! It is currently closed and is undergoing renovations, so instead, head to the 8th floor rooftop observatory of MAGNET . You must buy a drink (starting at around 500 yen) to enter. 

38. Taste sake

Chances are you’ve had sake at your favorite Japanese restaurant at home while enthusiastically shouting  “kanpai!”  Oh, just me?!

Sake is often referred to as “rice wine”, and while that makes some sense – it is made by fermenting rice – technically,  it’s more similar to beer than wine . But technicalities aside, sake is a big part of Japanese culture and should definitely be tried during your trip to Japan. 

Our first time trying sake we just, well, drank it. 

But when we finally did a proper sake tasting, we learned that sake can essentially be thought about by using a quadrant with the following scales: Aromatic to Low Aromatic, and Light Flavor to Strong Flavor (see photo below). 

Just like regular ol’ wine from grapes, sake can have complex flavor profiles, and this is perhaps a simplified way of describing those flavors. But I think it’s a good reference for anyone new to sake! 

Oh, and it can be served warm/hot or cold. I just thought sake was sake. I had no clue there were so many varieties.

39. Play Pachinko

This glammed-up version of pinball is noisy, bright, and crazy popular in Japan! Oh, and confusing. Did I mention it’s confusing?!

Most gambling is illegal in Japan, so instead of winning money from pachinko, you get silver balls that you can use to play more rounds to exchange for prizes, like snack foods, toys, or electronics (if you’re a really big winner!).

You can find pachinko all over Japan, from smoky, small village pachinko shops to large arcades in downtown Osaka. 

We didn’t really understand the hype, but we also didn’t really know what we were doing…  Regardless, it’s one of those “Japanese experiences” that you can’t really have anywhere else! 

Pachinko instructions:

• Insert money and press play (玉貸).
• Turn the round lever, which shoots out small metal balls. The further you turn the handle, the stronger the balls will shoot. Start by just barely turning the lever until you get a feel for it, and keep it turned so balls continue to shoot.
• Aim the balls at the gaps in the pegs. Your goal is to make them go into the small hole in the center of the game board.  Tip: Many players claim that the top left corner is the best spot to aim for.
• When you get the ball into the proper hole, you will be rewarded with a celebratory “ding-ding-ding” and more balls to play with (or cash in for prizes).

40. Wear a Yukata or Kimono

If you have an affinity for Japanese culture, you might like the idea of dressing up in a yukata or kimono for a day. 

First off, what exactly is the difference between a  yukata  and  kimono , you ask?

• Kimono –  made from silk, more formal, has two collars, generally heavier 
• Yukata –  typically made from cotton, more casual, lighter weight, worn in the summertime, one collar, more inexpensive to buy as a souvenir

Most ryokans have yukata for guests to wear at nighttime or after soaking in the onsite onsen, so if you’re planning to stay at one of these traditional Japanese inns, you’ll likely have an opportunity to try on a yukata free of charge.

In many of the famous shrines, you’ll see Japanese men and women wearing yukata or kimonos depending on the occasion and time of year. And if you want to join in and wear a kimono or yukata in public, there are many places around the country (especially in Tokyo and Kyoto) where you can rent them. 

There are all different options, from 1-hour indoor sessions that include a photo shoot and tea ceremony to all-day rentals where you can wander around town and keep the yukata to bring home. Depending on your budget and interest, you should be able to find a kimono rental experience that’s right for you.

Here are some resources that explain different rental shop experiences and prices so you can compare:

• Tokyo Kimono Rentals
• Kyoto Kimono Rentals

Wait… Is wearing a kimono as a non-Japanese person considered cultural appropriation?  We’re certainly not experts on the intricacies of this issue, but this video dives in and gives some insight on how some Japanese people feel about Westerners wearing their cultural clothing. 

Spoiler:  According to the extensive interviewing in this video, it seems that many Japanese people enjoy seeing foreigners taking an interest in and having respect for their traditional clothing. Obviously, this doesn’t speak for everyone, but the video does a really good job of diving into this complex issue.

41. See the cherry blossoms

Many travelers to Japan want to see the famed cherry blossoms. And for good reason — they are breathtakingly beautiful, a photographer’s dream. 

If you plan to travel to Japan during the springtime, be sure you  read up a bit about Golden Week  and that you book your train tickets and accommodations well in advance.  This is the most popular and crowded time of year to visit Japan.

But if you think you can stand the crowds, you’ll be rewarded with some of the most stunning displays of sakura and cherry blossoms you’ll find anywhere in the world. 

We have an entire  guide to viewing the cherry blossoms in Japan , including when to go and where the best places are. In short, some of the most iconic places to see cherry blossoms in Japan include:

• Yoshino:  Located in Nara prefecture, this mountain town becomes cloaked in pink as more than 1,000 trees bloom to signal the start of spring.
• Fuji Five Lakes:  This region is exactly how it sounds… five lakes that lie near Mount Fuji. They are indeed a stunning backdrop for the cherry blossoms. 
• Maruyama Park:  This urban park in Kyoto is known for its blooms (and crowds!) in the springtime.
• Himeji Castle:  If you want to see cherry blossoms and a beautiful castle at the same time, this is your spot!
• Ueno Park:  This is one of the most popular places to view cherry blossoms in Tokyo.

42. Pay a visit to the Ghibli Museum

• Entrance fee: 1000 yen for adults (~$7)
• Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., closed on Tuesdays

Showcasing the anime from the famous Studio Ghibli, this museum is one of the best things to do in Japan on a rainy day. 

Known as the Japanese Walt Disney , Hayao Miyazaki is the mastermind behind the art. Visitors to the museum can learn about the process of animation and admire his work displayed in the many interactive exhibits. 

43. Visit a national park

While many people picture densely populated cities when they think of Japan, we think the country is really underrated when it comes to nature.

Japan is home to 34 national parks , and they are all free to enter. 

We’ve visited Kamikochi (part of Chubu Sangaku National Park), Nikko National Park, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, and Yoshino-Kumano National Park, and there are so many more on our list!

If you like nature, make it a point to include at least one national park in your Japan itinerary. But be sure to do some research into the logistics because some of them can be a bit difficult to access, especially if you’re not driving a rental car . 

Read Next: Ultimate Guide to Visiting Kegon Falls in Nikko, Japan

44. Get your thrills at a theme park

Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, movie buff or big fan of Disney, Japan is home to a diverse array of theme parks, offering immersive experiences for visitors of all ages. 

Tokyo Disneyland

Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea, two unique parks inspired by Disney magic, bring beloved characters to life amid whimsical attractions and enchanting parades. The parks combine iconic attractions such as Cinderella’s Castle and Space Mountain with attractions that are unique to Japan. Plus cutting edge technology creates an immersive experience for visitors of all ages. 

Universal Studios Japan

Universal Studios Japan in Osaka is a dynamic playground where blockbuster movies come to life. The park boasts a lineup of attractions inspired by Hollywood’s biggest hits, including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Jurassic Park. 

Beyond the thrill rides and 3D simulations, Universal Studios Japan also has live shows, interactive experiences, and an array of dining options.

Fuji Q Highland

Situated at the foot of Mount Fuji, Fuji Q Highland caters to adrenaline junkies with a reputation for heart-pumping rides and stunning views of the iconic peak. In fact, the park is renowned for its record-breaking roller coasters like the spine-tingling Fujiyama and the gravity-defying Takabisha.

In addition to its daring attractions, Fuji-Q Highland features a variety of family-friendly rides, captivating shows, and seasonal events.

45. Attend a festival

Japan hosts a myriad of unique and culturally significant festivals each year that captivate both locals and visitors alike. These festivals offer a glimpse into the country’s heritage, providing an immersive experience for those lucky enough whose travel dates line up. 

One of the most famous is the cherry blossom festivals , or “Hanami,” celebrated nationwide during spring (see #41 on this list). 

Below are a few other major festivals you may want to consider when planning your trip to Japan. 

Sapporo Snow Festival

If you’re visiting Japan in winter , you may want to venture north to check out the Sapporo Snow Festival. 

Held annually in February, the Sapporo Snow Festival transforms the capital of Hokkaido into a winter wonderland. On our first trip to Japan, we missed this festival by just 2 days and were super bummed because it looks so cool!

The festival is renowned for snow and ice sculptures that draw visitors from around the world. These intricate and colossal creations depict everything from replicas of famous landmarks to imaginative characters.

Gion Matsuri 

Held annually in Kyoto in July, Gion Matsuri (the festival of Yasaka Shrine) is one of Japan’s most iconic festivals. 

Dating back to 869, the festival originated as a religious ritual to appease the deities during a series of plagues. Over time, it evolved into a celebration of Kyoto’s local culture, prosperity, and the strength of its communities. 

The highlight of this festival is the Yamaboko Junko parade, featuring elaborate floats adorned with tapestries, lanterns, and traditional artifacts, parading through the historic streets of Kyoto. The stunning display of meticulous craftsmanship draws millions of spectators each year. 

How many days do you need in Japan?

Depending on your intended itinerary, you could spend as little as one week in Japan , like we did on our first trip. 

Ideally, 2-3 weeks will give you enough time to see iconic and lesser-known sights as well as recover from a long travel day and potentially a big time difference

Japan itinerary ideas based on your interests

As you can see from this extensive list, Japan is so much more than just big cities like Tokyo. If it’s your first time traveling to the Land of the Rising Sun , we’d definitely recommend a visit to its capital city as well as some of the other more well-known places like Kyoto and Osaka.

But, if you have been-there-done-that , or you have a lot of time to play with, check out our unique Japan itinerary ideas to get some inspiration.

Unique Japan Itinerary Ideas Based on Your Interests

If you’ve been wondering where to start when planning your Japan itinerary, we’ve got some inspiration for you! These unique Japan itinerary ideas are based on your personal travel interests.

Want the perfect itinerary planned for you? 

If you don’t have a ton of time to spend planning your Japan itinerary (or you just don’t find travel planning fun!), we’re working on something you might be interested in… 

We are in the process of creating  done-for-you Japan itineraries  that are packed full of all sorts of tips we’ve gathered from 3 trips to Japan as well as literally hundreds of hours of research (no exaggeration). 

We will have both off-the-beaten path routes as well as a classic itinerary that hits the top attractions. If you want to be the first to know when our Japan itineraries are on sale,  get on the waitlist !

Best time to visit Japan

In short, you’ll have the best chance of comfortable weather and fewer crowds in early spring (March – early April) and in autumn (late October – November) . 

Truthfully there is no best time to visit Japan as each season has its own unique draws and drawbacks. 

Each season boasts different highlights such as the cherry blossoms blooming in the springtime, Mt Fuji opens for climbing in the summer, the leaves changing colors in the fall and of course ski season in the winter.

The ideal time to visit largely depends on your interests, preferences, and itinerary. We have a full breakdown of each season, plus pros and cons in our guide to the best time to visit Japan .

There’s so much to see and do in Japan that it can be overwhelming trying to decide how long your trip should be. Ideally, 2-3 weeks  will give you enough time to see iconic and lesser-known sights as well as recover from a long travel day and potentially a big time difference.

But the ideal duration for your trip depends on several factors, including destinations you want to visit and your travel style. Our guide to how many days to spend in Japan will help you figure out how much time you need based on what you want to do.

The trains and metros in Japan are some of the cleanest and most efficient in the world , and the rail system covers almost the entire country making it a very efficient way to get around. 

However, transportation is one of the biggest expenses to factor into your Japan travel budget . 

Travel by train in Japan

We have an entire guide to navigating the Japan Rail system and whether or not getting a J Rail Pass is worthwhile for your trip, depending on your itinerary. 

Japan Rail Pass: Where to Buy a JR Pass & Is it Worthwhile?

If you’re traveling to Japan, the Japan Rail Pass can be a huge money saver. We’ll explain exactly when you should purchase the JR Pass and if it is worthwhile for your route. This is everything you need to know including where to buy the rail pass.

Likewise, if you are just planning to spend your time in Tokyo and trying to figure out how to navigate the metro, you can find that info in our Tokyo article . 

Renting a car

While we love the ease and efficiency of Japan’s public transportation system, we rented a car during our most recent trip to Japan and we absolutely loved it.

Having our own car was really convenient, especially now that we’re traveling with a toddler . Plus, it gave us the opportunity to get off the beaten path and explore places with very few tourists that would be difficult to visit via public transportation. 

I think we will forevermore be renting cars when we visit Japan, even if just for part of our trip.

Psst! We have a guide to renting a car in Japan (packed with lots of driving tips you won’t want to miss!).

• Renting a Car in Japan: Essential Driving Tips You Need to Know!

Renting a car in Japan is the best way to get off the beaten track and see parts of the country most tourists miss. We’re sharing our top tips to help you get a car rental and feel comfortable driving in Japan.

Tips for visiting Japan

A bucket list destination for many, Japan can feel extremely foreign for those visiting from other western countries. We’ve traveled to Japan 3 times now (and counting!) and have gathered some of our top tips to make your visit a bit smoother. 

• Respect local customs and etiquette. Japanese culture places a high value on manners and etiquette. It’s a good idea to read up on some Japanese manners before your trip so you don’t embarrass yourself or offend someone. 
• Learn some key phrases , but don’t worry too much about the language barrier. It is always respectful and recommended that you learn a few helpful words or phrases in the country you’re visiting, but we want to point out that it is possible to have a fantastic trip to Japan without having mastered the language.
• Don’t tip. While it is a common practice in North America, Europe and many other parts of the world, tipping is not part of Japanese culture and can be seen as mildly rude in some instances. 
• Insider tip: We found Kizik shoes to be great for our trip because you can slide in and out of them easily. It was so handy not to have to lace them up every single time.
• We never use money exchanges to get foreign currency (they take a huge cut!), instead we make it a habit to find an ATM first thing when we land in a country and withdraw the local currency. 
• Use public transportation. Japan has an efficient and extensive public transportation system, including trains and buses. Consider purchasing a Japan Rail Pass if you plan on traveling between cities to save money. 
• Stay connected. Whether you need to Google what something is on a menu or get directions, you will most definitely need to connect to the Internet during your trip. We have a complete guide to renting a pocket Wi-Fi as well as how to get an international eSIM — both of which are practical ways to stay connected during your trip. 
• Download these apps before your trip.

What to pack for traveling to Japan

We know it can be overwhelming packing for a trip to a new destination. That’s why we spent hours creating these super helpful guides full of  packing hacks and tips for traveling in Japan  that you won’t find anywhere else:

• Our  Japan packing guide  lists all the essentials (many of which you might not think about), as well as what you should NOT pack for a trip to Japan.
• This article on  what to wear in Japan  will help you create a perfect capsule wardrobe for every season and let you in on some cultural taboos so you can be sure to dress appropriately.
• With this  FREE Japan packing list PDF download , we’ll send checklists straight to your inbox for everything from clothing and toiletries (for both women and men!) to what shoes to pack and extra stuff you may want to have on-hand just in case. Click the image below to get your free copy!

Round up of the best things to do in Japan

Here’s a recap of all the best things to do in Japan so you can see everything in one place.

• Kumano Kodo Trail
• Izakaya hopping
• teamLab Borderless Museum
• Japanese cooking class
• Shrines and temples
• Jigokudani Monkey Park
• Bullet trains
• Japanese photo booth
• Bamboo forest
• Japanese castles
• Theme restaurants
• Japanese Alps
• Fresh sushi
• Capsule hotel
• Nakasendō Trail
• Real life Mario Kart
• Japanese gardens
• Kawaii Culture 
• Kaiseki meal
• Scuba diving
• Sumo wrestling
• Japan’s preserved historic villages
• Temple stay in Koyasan
• Japanese tea ceremony
• Japanese baseball game 
• Japanese souvenirs
• Shibuya Crossing
• Yukata or Kimono
• Cherry blossoms
• Ghibli Museum
• National parks
• Theme parks
• Cultural festivals

More resources for traveling in Japan

We have TONS of resources on travel in Japan and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Ultimate Japan Travel Guide  for all the answers to your most burning questions, or read some of our favorite articles below!

• Best Time to Visit Japan: When to Go & When to Avoid
• Japan Rail Pass: Where to Buy & Is It Worthwhile?
• Japan Travel Cost: Exactly How Much is a Trip to Japan?
• Japan on a Budget: Money-Saving Tips + Free Things to Do
• One Week in Japan: Best Itinerary for Your First Visit
• Japan Pocket Wifi vs. Japanese SIM Card: Review & Comparison
• Best Japan Travel Apps
• Foods to Eat in Japan: Guide to Japanese Cuisine
• Helpful Japanese Words & Phrases to Know for Traveling in Japan

Be sure to download our  complete packing list for Japan !  It’s packed with good suggestions and  insider tips  to help plan your Japan trip. And it’s completely  FREE , so why not!?

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We want to hear from you!

Which of these epic things to do in Japan is going straight to the top of your bucket list? Are you planning a trip to Japan and still have questions? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!

Comments (51) on “ 45 Crazy Fun Things to do in Japan ”

Your blog on “45 Crazy Fun Things to do in Japan” is an absolute delight for anyone planning a trip to the Land of the Rising Sun! From exploring vibrant cityscapes to immersing oneself in traditional culture, your list captures the essence of Japan’s diverse offerings. Thank you for inspiring wanderlust and providing an extensive guide to unforgettable experiences in Japan. Can’t wait to check off these crazy fun activities from my travel bucket list!

Good luck 🙂

Japan’s vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes make it a playground for adventure seekers. From exploring Tokyo’s bustling streets to serene Kyoto temples, your list of ’45 Crazy Fun Things to do in Japan’ is a treasure trove of exciting possibilities! Can’t wait to experience the magic firsthand.

Very nice blog! A lot of ideas where to go and what to see. Planing our trip to japan, and i think we have to add a few more spots to our list =) Thanks a lot!

Amazing! That is great to hear. Have a great trip to Japan!

Absolutely mesmerized by your ’42 Crazy Fun Things to Do in Japan’ article! It’s evident that you’ve delved deep into the heart of Japan’s vibrant culture and uncovered its most whimsical facets. Some of these activities were totally off my radar, but now they’re firmly on my must-do list for my next Japan escapade. Thank you for this kaleidoscopic journey through one of my favorite destinations!

A beautiful blog with lots of Infos! Thank you!

Wow, I am eager to visit Japan when I reach adulthood because, at the age of ten, I have compiled a list of activities spanning three full pages. Much of my itinerary has been sourced from this website, which has been immensely helpful. Thank you and goodbye!

This post is so cool! I don’t think I will be going to Japan anytime soon but I must say your guy’s blog make me feel like I’m there just by reading!

Thanks so much, Alex! What a compliment!

Good post.. well written

wow! i want to go to japan when i grow up cuz im ten, and i have three entire pages of things i wanna do. most of it is on this website! this helped me out a lot bye!!

This story was fantastic, full of great and very useful information. Such fun ideas! And so helpful to us as we plan our trip. Thanks so much!

magnificent issues altogether, you simply gained a emblem new reader. What could you suggest about your submit that you simply made a few days ago? Any sure?

Thank you for the “ travel information” – we are thinking of our first trip to Japan – we are looking to spend around 20/25 days in Japan . Unsure if we should take a guided tour or Trust our instincts like we have done in our past travels. Post COVID and now 2 years older and over 70 years of age – we are keen to experience a fun and vibrant culture. Fingers crossed , borders and situations will improve in 2022.

Nice blog with great post, Thanks for sharing!

Excellently helpful blog as per the usual. I’m still researching & planning my trip to Japan for next March. Thanks again for being so clear and open with the information!

Lovely! Congratulations

I’ve been a regular annual visitor to Japan since 1985. All my friends and colleagues asked me and were puzzled for decades (80s/90s) – why on earth would I or anybody visit Japan for a holiday – as it was just not considered the ‘cool destination’ back in the 1980s/90s. But now…. it’s crazy with over tourism in many parts.

MariKarts have recently lost their court case and appeal with Nintendo and (in addition to having customer numbers obliterated by Covid) have now shut down.

damn thats crazy bro but the only thing is i just don’t remember asking about it

then why did you look up things to do in japan and then click on this article

Have you went to any arcades or class machine arcades in Japan? If so , which do you recommend? Also Did you try any vending machines? I heard they have crazy ones and I would love to go to try those and arcades.

An incredible list and such beautiful photos! I’ve always wanted to go to Japan. You inspired me. Thanks!

Thank you so much, Tori. Japan is so beautiful. If you ever go, please let us know if you have any questions.

Japan will forever be my favorite country! Lived here for two year and still can’t get enough of it 🙂 This is a great list!

Thanks Viola! We loved traveling in Japan and it is one of our favorites too!

This is perfect! I’m researching for great dive spots in Japan, so I’m glad to be stumbling upon your guide here and also the dive guide! Can’t wait to discover the underwater world there soon!

Hey Viktoria! Who knew there was such great diving in Japan!?!? We can’t wait to go back and explore some more!

A couple of hours ago I mentioned to my husband that the only thing I remember about Japan, from a project I did for school, was that there are cool bullet trains. So I got uncharacteristically excited when I saw bullet trains on your list. I’d never heard of the Kumano Kodo Trail but now I want to spend 6 days on it!

Hey Katherine! Hiking part of the Kumano Kodo was definitely a highlight of our trip to Japan. We loved how peaceful it was there!

I am so thrilled to find this article, I am visiting Tokyo next week and I will definitely try to tick as many possible in this bucket list.

Hi Mihika, we hope you had a great time traveling! What was your favorite thing to do in Japan?

Hi, A group of us are going to Japan in Feb. How cold is it?? Loved all your pictures and the info was extremely helpful

Thanks Jodie

Hey Jodie! In our opinion, February is a great time to go to Japan because it is not so crowded in the main tourist places. Our first trip to Japan was in Feb and we had a blast. It is typically 35°F – 55°F in Tokyo (2°C – 13°C) during the winter. Depending on where you’re from, the temperatures are not too bad.

Your cooking class looks amazing! I’m trying to find it, but i don’t see it on the site. could you tell me which course you guys specifically took?

Hey Shey, the cooking class was great! It was called Cooking Sun School in Kyoto. You should check it out, they were excellent!

We updated our article and the links to our favorite cooking classes in Japan are under #7 on the list. Let us know if you try them out!

Wow Kyoto is just such a majestic place! Your photos really capture it in all its glory 🙂 If anyone would like some help learning Japanese before their trip, I’m more than happy to help! Shota

Hey Shota, thanks for such a nice compliment! Kyoto is incredibly photogenic! We’d love to get back there someday. How nice of you to offer to teach Japanese 🙂

Congrats to you and Ben on a fabulous travel blog! A friend and I are in the early planning stages for a trip to Japan in October. I love your photos of the ship to see Mt. Fuji and I’m wondering where you pick it and the cable car up. We also want to get the black eggs….can you get those near to where the ship and/or cable car are located? Thanks so much for the help!

Hi Kerin, What an exciting trip you’re planning! You can reach the ship and the cable car very easily if you get the Hakone Free Pass (unlike the name suggests, it is unfortunately not free haha). The neighborhood (or bus stop name) that you will head to for BOTH the boat and the cable car is called Togendai. It is right on Lake Ashi. The black eggs are sold at a big store the top of the cable car, so you shouldn’t’ have trouble finding them. I just hope the weather is a bit better for you and you get to see Mount Fuji instead of the clouds we got! Happy planning ☺

Hi Katie, your blog is a wealth of information! So happy to stumble upon it. Just a quick question-when you stayed in the Hakone Guest house with the onsen were you able to book a room with a private onsen? Or do each of the rooms have access to a private onsen? Trying to book a room there, and it is unclear! Thanks!

Hey Alex, I hope this comment reaches you in time – from what I remember all the rooms had access to the onsen. There was a sign up sheet, so as soon as we arrived, we signed up for a time to use it. There’s also an indoor onsen you can use in addition to the outdoor one. (We never made it to that one because time just got away from us). I hope this helps! Have an amazing time in Japan!

Absolutely love your blog! Thank you for sharing! Headed to Japan next week with my beau and we have both found your blog very helpful and interesting! <3

Thanks so much for the compliment, Kim. That really means a lot! I’m so glad you found our site helpful. Let us know if you have any questions before you leave! Have an amazing time!

Hi Ben & Katie, Never been to Japan, though this country has been high on my list. This list (beautiful pictures) show the diversity that Japan has to offer. Will surely be an inspiration when I start planing a trip there. Cheers, Gilles

Hi Gilles, thanks for the comment! We were a bit worried about going to Japan in February, but as it turns out, it is a great winter destination! You’re right – there is a ton of diversity when it comes to things to do!

An incredible list and such beautiful photos! I’ve always wanted to go to Japan, and your post has just given me a reminder to do exactly that. I think I’d feel overwhelmed at that intersection, though! 🙂

Thanks for the kind words, Kasha! You’ll certainly love Japan – there is so much to do! You’re right, Shibuya Crossing is super overwhelming, but a unique experience nonetheless. We didn’t stay for long though because there were just SO MANY people everywhere!

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Life over the Threshold.

Funny Stories from Travel in Japan

by Anwar Y Leave a Comment

On my very first trip to Tokyo back in 2006 I was both amazed and confused by everything.  It was truly sensory overload.  We ended up taking the metro the first day and I had to go and buy a ticket but thankfully I had two friends who were with me to show me the way.  I put in a 10000 yen note (as it was my only bill) into the ticket machine.  My ticket came out, but no change, and then a bell rang.  Before I could react a little window opened up on the side of the machine and a head popped out.  He looked at me, then at the machine and said something in Japanese and closed the window.  I had no idea what had happened and turned to my friend who had been to japan about a dozen times before and he said.  I have never seen that before in my life!  A few minutes later, the window opened again and the head returned with my change.

Immigration

One of my later trips to Japan I was waiting at immigration to get into the country.  The immigration guy stared at me and my passport and then said.  “Excuse me.  What happened to your passport.  Did it go through washing machine?”  I had no good response to that question.  That was when I realized I really needed to get a passport cover for my passport before it was completely destroyed.

My friend and I were returning to Tokyo completely exhausted after climbing Mount Fuji.  We had been taking the train back from Gotemba to Tokyo and we were carrying our new prized Fuji sticks.  The guy next to me seemed very excited about my hiking stick as well, so much so that he kept waking me up to ask me questions about it.  He woke me up several times to ask me if I made it to the top, about the stamps, etc.  Eventually, on the fourth time of waking me up, he suggested that my friend and I should fight each other with our sticks!

While wandering around Miyajima I had met a wonderful older man who was there taking photographs of birds.  I had approached and used my few words of Japanese before I realized he spoke perfect English.  He had worked for the ministry of education for years in Japan working with English language education and been to the US several times.  I thanked him for the chat and started walking away.  As I was walking down the hill I saw him running after me with several cameras and a tripod around his neck (he was probably 65 or so years old).  I stopped to let him catch up, and he was like well I’m going the same direction it would be great to talk.  He had not used English in over 15 years! And he was so excited to find a native speaker to talk with again.

Corporate Bureaucracy

I was trying to exchange a Japan Rail pass I had purchased while in the US before coming to japan.  The pass, however, said I needed to exchange it at the Japan Airlines Office, which while I figured was odd, I didn’t think much of it anyway.  So I went to the Airlines office in Yurakucho to find out how to exchange it.  The lady helping me started asking her coworkers and no one seemed to have an answer.  They then started asking if maybe there was a misspelling perhaps, or something else, they even suggested going over to the Japan Rail office across the street to check with them.  I was completely OK with that and was ready to leave before they stopped me.  She was like “no no, wait here, we will get the answer.  We are calling the corporate headquarters and will find the answer for you.”   At this point ever single person in the office seemed to be working my request, managers, front desk people, everyone.  There was a large circle of them talking about the issue and several on the phone!  I felt terrible and would have left to check at the JR office but they still had my ticket.  They eventually after another 20minutes finally got a response from someone at their headquarters who called the Japan Rail office headquarters that I needed to go across the street to get it exchanged.

Chance Encounters

We had just finished up having dinner at an Izakaya place in Shibuya and were walking back to the metro station.  My friend oddly still hungry was getting a kabob over by Hachiko Crossing (the busiest intersection in the world) when this guy in the intersection said to him.  “Hey, I know you!”  We were like clearly there is no way you know him.  But no, in fact, this person remembered him from over a year ago when he came into their restaurant with his large family!  How you can randomly find someone you met once in a place full of thousands of people I’ll never know!

There are a ton more stories, encounters, and such.  Some places seem to occupy a special part of you and Tokyo has definitely been one of those places for me.

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Japan's Most Surprising Tourist Attractions

Strange is the name of the game in Japan—you're practically guaranteed to have a bizarre experience , simply by setting foot in the country. But if the chance of a random robot encounter or the wild fashions of Harajuku aren't enough to whet your weird whistle, check out these surprising Japan tourist attractions.

Naruto Whirlpools

Shikoku is the smallest and least-visited of Japan's main islands, which makes it a great place for a surprising, strange attraction to hide. Of course, the Naruto Whirlpools are decidedly out in the open, although you'll have to get pretty close to in order to see them.

Close, as is in, on a boat just above them. This can seem frightening, as the spinning of the water moves your boat around the edges of the Whirlpools, but you're not in danger. After all, these whirlpools are caused by water moving back and forth between Japan's Seto Inland Sea and the Pacific Ocean, not some undersea plug pulled by a bathing giant.

The Naruto Whirlpools are easily accessible on a day trip from Tokushima, if you're already in Shikoku, or from Osaka, the closest mainland Honshu city to them.

Tottori Sand Dunes

The question of whether or not the Tottori Sand Dunes are actually a desert is a contentious one. After all, the only reason this 32-square mile expanse of sand exists in an otherwise ordinary Japanese landscape is because of winds that have redeposited sediment from the Sendai River over the past several thousand years. Nobody disputes the strangeness of this huge expanse of sand, which sits along the northwestern flank of Honshu Island on the Sea of Japan.

Whether you ride a camel across the dunes, hike up them to get an incredible panorama of the ocean below or simply pretend you're a character in Hiroshi Teshigahara's  Woman in the Dunes , which Tottori Sand Dunes inspired, this place is certainly not one you probably expected to find in Japan.

Shin-Yokohama Raumen Museum

If you've been living under a rock and still can't differentiate between ramen and "Cup Noodles" (which have their own museum down the coast in Osaka), you should absolutely make a stop at the Shin-yokohama Raumen Museum .

It's arguable that this place shouldn't be called a museum at all. After all, a visit to the Raumen Museum less about reading information or looking at historical artifacts, and more about using your taste buds to discover the various flavors of these beloved noodles, from classics like Tonkotsu pork bone broth, to Ryu Shanghai Honten , which features a unique seafood broth that spotlights aptly-named "spicy miso."

Robot Statue of Liberty

It's difficult to single out one Tokyo attraction that ranks among Japan's most surprising tourist attractions, let alone a single district within the sprawling city. But the massive statue of the robot Gundam, located on Odaiba Island just across the Rainbow Bridge from the city center, makes a pretty good case for itself.

Although the cultural significance of Gundam might be lost upon non-Japanophiles, its size certainly isn't. The current statue is stands about 55 feet tall, and the one being erected to replace it is even bigger . The strangeness of this statue goes up yet another notch when you notice that not far from it, a replica of the Statue of Liberty stands, making you call a whole lot into question at the same time. 

Miyagi Zao Fox Village

As is the case when it comes to weird Tokyo, it's difficult to say just which of Japan's wildlife-related attractions is the weirdest. After all, this is the country that has islands filled with cats and rabbits, and whose most famous winter attraction is a mountain hot spring filled with red-faced monkeys.

Miyagi's Zao Fox Village is certainly the cutest of these places, and is definitely the most surprising. After all, foxes (in the West, anyway) are often associated with attacks and viciousness, and certainly not the sort of finger-licking and treat-begging with which the residents here will greet you.

Plus, Zao Fox Village sits not far off the Tokyo-Sendai Shinkansen line, which means you can theoretically see it on a day trip from Japan's capital (if you manage to escape Tokyo's own weirdness, of course). 

If you walk through many major Japanese cities, you've surely seen an advertisement for a host club. The clubs are heavily publicized, but tucked away more carefully than you might expect given the attention they draw to themselves.

As is the case with better-known Japanese hostess clubs, which are more nuanced in their execution and their aims than strip clubs in the West, host clubs are less about sex and more about companionship, focused more on attention to the needs of female patrons than to the physicality of the male hosts.

If you decide to go to host clubs, which are most common in Tokyo and Osaka but do exist in some other places, it's recommended to go with Japanese people. While foreigners are not officially banned from host clubs, even on their own, club owners do seek to maintain a very specific ambiance within the space, which requires adherence to social norms you might not even know exist.

Hello Kitty Theme Park

Hello Kitty has become ubiquitous throughout Asia, but Japan is the source of the beloved character, not to mention the best place in the world to buy Hello Kitty souvenirs. Not surprisingly, you can also find a Hello Kitty theme park in Japan. Do you think you can handle the cuteness?

Opened in 1990, Sanrio Puroland is located just outside of Tokyo in Tama New Town, and features a variety of indoor rides, shows and attractions. While Hello Kitty herself is the star of the show, you can meet and greet with other Sanrio characters, including My Melody and Chococat.

Sanrio Puroland was originally considered a failure, but recent increases in the popularity of Hello Kitty have made it a top draw—plan on encountering heavy crowds when you visit.

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Ten of Japan's Weirdest Events

Expect to find these bizarre festivals only in Japan

Abroad, Japan has an image as a country filled with strange things. Any visitor or local will tell you that many of these stereotypes are overinflated, but you may be surprised to learn of these decidedly weird festivals and events. These ten make the list for the most unique festival and they’re sure to make you look twice. Here are some events you'll only see in Japan:

January : Hanamaki Souminsai

Travel to Mount Koshio in Iwate to partake in mochi pounding and be blessed by the local Shinto priest. Then get ready to watch the trek of half-clad men trek through snow and icy winds. As they climb the mountain, flame-lit torch in hand, they determinedly hold a paper blessing in their mouth. At the end of their climb, the men fight—sometimes literally—over a good-luck pouch. It’s said that whoever ends up with the pouch will enjoy a prosperous year.

More details

Hanamaki Souminsai 2025

The Hanamaki Souminsai is held every year on January 2nd at the Koshio shrine on Mount Koshio.

February : Kasedori Matsuri

This unusual festival dates back to the 1600s. The “Strawbird Festival” of Kaminoyama, Yamagata, has grown men dressed up in odd costumes made of straw shouting out like birds. The straw-pile costumes offer little warmth as the men are showered with cold water, which often freezes to the straw—but they also enjoy plenty of sake on their wild dance and bird-calling through the castle town. This prosperity festival is certain to bring laughter to any who watch.

Kasedori Festival 2025

Kasedori Festival, or “Strawbird Festival”, is a unique yet bizarre Japanese event. Performers gather at Kaminoyama Castle dre..

February : Okayama's Naked Man Festival

Famous around the world, this festival sees some 40,000 annual participants. The men strip down to their fundoshi loincloth and tabi socks, link arms, and run through the city in near sub-zero temperatures. All this for a chance at catching lucky bamboo sticks in order to have a prosperous year ahead. In the midst of the bustling, half-naked crowd, the men can barely move as they jostle this way and that, fighting for the lucky prizes. It’s well worth a visit—if you’re brave, why not participate?

Naked Man Festival 2025

Brave the cold of February in Okayama for the Saidaiji Eyo Hadaka Matsuri, also known as the Naked Man Festival, and considered..

April : Kanamara Matsuri

Not for the faint of heart or the demure, the Kanamara Festival is well-known around the world for being the penis festival. The festival draws huge crowds to Kawasaki, Kanagawa, as phallus fans can go crazy over candy, illustrations, vegetables, and more—all centering around the male organ. Although there are colliding thoughts about why the festival takes place—some say it’s to ward off STDs and others say it’s to pray for successful childbirth—everyone can agree it’s a riot to see the bright pink penis mikoshi carried through the streets.

Kanamara Penis Festival 2025

The Shinto Kanamara Matsuri (Festival of the Steel Phallus) each April at Kawasaki's Kanayama shrine is centered around the..

April : Nakizumo Matsuri

Get your babies ready for the “Crying Baby Festival” at Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, Tokyo. Every year, one hundred babies showdown for loudest crier. The babes are each carried by a sumo wrestler and whoever cries first is the winner. The belief is that crying babies grow up strong and healthy. If one contestant proves too stubborn or stoic to cry, the judge will don a red tengu mask and frighten the infant to tears. Get ready for a festival experience a bit louder than usual.

Nakizumo Crying Baby Festival 2024

Nakizumo Crying Baby Festival 2019 in Asakusa's Senso-ji, an unusual but popular festival among parents where babies, carried..

April : Onbashira Matsuri

You might have to wait a while for this next festival as the Onbashira Matsuri happens only once every six years. During this event, as many as 16 fire trees are harvested to replace the pillars of Suwa Grand Shrine. The logs are transported over dangerous terrain and the brave men of the area ride atop them to demonstrate their valor. It can be a dangerous event, with some deaths in past years, but is no less exhilarating.

Onbashira Matsuri in Suwa, Nagano 2022

Onbashira Matsuri in Suwa, Nagano is filled with plenty of singing, dancing, colorful costumes and merrymaking in general.

June : Kajiki Spider Fighting Festival

The Kumo Gassen is a spider-fighting festival that dates back 400 years. At this unusual festival, small arachnids—raised by families and children—battle it out for top spider. Arachnophobes beware, this festival isn’t for the weak of heart. These spiders jump, bite, spin webs, and use all their creepy, crawly moves to win the fight. The fights seldom end in death as the judges break up the fights—by hand—once a winner is declared.

Kajiki Spider Fighting Festival 2024

The townsfolk of Kajiki, a town in Aira City, Kagoshima, happily partake in a tradition which reaches back over four-hundred years:..

July : Doronko Matsuri

The “Mud Festival” is a great way to enjoy the hot, muggy days of July at Mishima Shrine . This festival has multiple events and is rife with photographers. The day begins with bulls plowing the muddy paddy while pulling old-fashioned wooden plows. There is a little disorder as the bulls sometimes go astray. After the bulls, the bean planters follow; the procession of men looks more than a little silly as they wade through the now stinky water to cast beans and rice husks onto the field. Next comes a ceremony of offerings with drums and even a guest appearance from a demon. This event is a long procession of bizarre and makes for some great photos.

Doronko Matsuri Mud Festival 2024

Shirokawa's Doronko Mud Festival in early summer has it all – bulls, devils, wrestling, pulsing drums and dancing virgins ..

July : Abare Matsuri

Things heat up in Ishikawa at Yasaka Shrine’s wild “Rampage Festival” (also known as Fire & Violence Festival). True to its name, the festival is filled with fire and a lively—almost violent—atmosphere. Fire is set to a huge log-pillar at the pier and large festival lanterns are carried and paraded around as the blazing fire sparks over spectators. The following day, portable shrines are bathed in the sea—violently—and then smashed to pieces for a bonfire.

Abare Matsuri 2024

Abare Matsuri, or Rampage Festival, is an annual event in the town of Noto, Ishikawa. One of Japan’s most violent and fiery fe..

October : Paantu Matsuri

A messy and spiritual festival is the Paantu Matsuri of Okinawa. Let your spirit be cleansed by the Paantu spirit creature that visits from the mountains. These spirits are made of mud and sticks and leaves; they bring good fortune and health to anyone smeared with their mud. It’s a weird festival that’s drawn complaints in recent years as the number of tourists increases. It’s important to stay open to receiving the Paantu’s blessing of mud. Besides, what’s a little mud for good fortune and health?

Paantu Festival in Okinawa 2024

Okinawa's Miyakojima island celebrates the Paantu festival – an ancient form of exorcism involving supernatural creatures,..

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20 Funny Signs From Japan

Posted: December 3, 2017 by Ovi

Travelling to Japan, you cannot stop noticing the difference between Japanese and Western signage. The signs in Japan can be cartoonish, funny, blunt and creative. But they do attract the attention of the intended target, both children and adults.

Here are the funniest 20 signs spotted throughout Japan, from Tokyo to Kyoto to Okinawa. 

God see you where you pee!

Don’t make us angry!

I am the goat from your soup bowl!

“Massage function is only for posterior cleansing”

Help us to be happy!

I can attack you!

We are cute!

Let us cross the street, we are slow!

Help! My hat is between the train tracks!

Stay out of here! I am serious.

Don’t make us sad!

Keep our city clean!

Tony, don’t shoot me!

Where is the map for toilet?!

I am the Iriomote cat and I can cross the street wherever I want!

Don’t worry, we are here to protect you!

No! Don’t feed me!

Remember to extinguish the fire!

Stop. Don’t even think about it!

Caution! Strong Winds

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10 Japan Travel Vloggers On YouTube To Follow So You Can Satiate Your Wanderlust For Free

YouTube travel vloggers in Japan

Whether you’re scrimping and saving for your next getaway, staying at home till the pandemic blows over, or both, we know exactly how to feed your wanderlust for free –  watching travel vlogs. YouTube makes it possible for people to travel from the confines of their own home. 

To get you started, here are 10 travel vloggers to follow on a journey around Japan without spending a single dime. From discovering an outdoor onsen in Ibaraki to salivating over pancakes drenched in egg yolk , Japan is merely a click away. 

1. Currently Hannah – features Japan’s underrated spots

Currently Hannah is a combination of vlogging and slow-mo cinematography. The Australian vlogger is a performer at Universal Studios Osaka and is now on a mission to capture Japan’s undiscovered attractions.

The growing channel has less than 230,000 subscribers at the moment, but Hannah has already amassed an impressive portfolio with various Japanese tourism organisations. Expect rare footage of Japan’s hidden spots like Ibaraki’s alfresco onsen and snorkelling at Amami Oshima ‘s crystal clear coastline.

Youtube channel Subscriber count: 222K

2. ONLY in JAPAN – informative and detailed vlogs

John Daub started ONLY in Japan in 2013 and soon made his way up as one of the top 5 channels for Japanese tourism on YouTube. A quick gander at his channel reveals a plethora of topics – street food, video games, Japanese subcultures, and even a dedicated section for his ramen-eating adventures.

Many online personalities separate their travel content into videos and articles – the former as a general overview and the latter for a detailed breakdown. It can be a hassle to jump between different websites, but Daub’s channel provides a one-stop solution for your travel groundwork. 

From the cost of grilled maguro (tuna) to nitty-gritty details like how to rent a scooter in Japan, his travel vlogs are so detailed that you will barely need to do additional research on your part.

Youtube Channel Subscriber count: 1.34M

3. internationally ME – virtual tour experiences

internationally ME is a one-woman show that features Angela’s zest for Japan’s countryside. If you’ve always had a gripe with overly populated spots, check out this channel as Angela has all the deets on Japan’s less well-known and underrated destinations. 

Plus, the avid travel vlogger has a knack for taking viewers on a virtual travel tour. Most of her videos feature face-to-face interviews for an in-depth understanding of the history and culture behind a place, food, and more.

YouTube channel Subscriber count: 260K

4. Rachel and Jun – easy-to-follow Japanese guides 

Rachel and Jun, a Japanese-American couple, first started out on YouTube to keep each other updated during their long-distance relationship. The married pair then catapulted to fame when they uploaded a 5-minute video of a fox village in Zao . Their channel, Rachel and Jun, has since gained traction for its travel content.

Since Rachel is an expat herself, the couple does well in rolling out easy-to-follow guides, tips, and things to do for foreigners. Some noteworthy mentions include vlogs on Japanese squat toilets and must-know Japanese words .

And if you have a soft spot for felines, get your dose of cuteness from their pet cats, Poki, Haku, and Nagi, on their channel.

YouTube channel Subscriber count: 2.64M

5. Tokyo Lens – hidden spots in Tokyo

Norm Nakamura is a devoted shamisen (a three-stringed traditional Japanese instrument) player and has been vlogging full-time since 2018. His channel, Tokyo Lens , takes you through Tokyo’s lesser-known spots, as well as a comprehensive shamisen playlist. 

So if you’re on a lookout for Tokyo’s underground world or secret sakura sightseeing spots , you’ve come to the right channel.

Youtube channel Subscriber count: 77.7K

6. Life Where I’m From – travel vlogs from the perspective of a kid

Life Where I’m From connects kids from across the globe for an insider look at the Japanese way of life. The channel is run by Canadian Greg Lam, while his kids, Aiko and Shun, take centre stage as talents and co-hosts. Because of its kid-centric perspective, Greg’s videos are incredibly easy to follow.

They have since dabbled in other Japanese content like travel, food, and documentaries on locals and expats living in Japan. Parents who intend to rope their kids in for a getaway will gain plenty of child-friendly inspo from Greg’s travel vlogs.

YouTube channel Subscriber count: 1.25M

7. Paolo fromTOKYO – extensive travel content in Tokyo

If you’ve been browsing for travel content in Tokyo, Paolo’s infectious grin and his signature goatee may have popped up on your YouTube feed. Paolo fromTOKYO is now a household name within the online travel scene with over 1.19 million subscribers in April 2020 and viewership counts as high as 8 million per video. 

From touristy guides to off-the-beaten-path spots in Japan, Paolo has everything a traveller needs with just a click. 

YouTube channel Subscriber count: 1.19M

8. Abroad in Japan – exploring Japan via challenging missions 

Abroad in Japan presents a variety of Japanese travel content, but the channel’s most memorable series is the 2,000km Cycle Series . Chris , a British native, challenges himself on a two-month biking journey across Japan while completing absurd missions like navigating Kyoto with just a paper map or gorging on 7kg worth of Japanese fried chicken . 

If you prefer unscripted, spontaneous travel vlogs, Chris’ humorous personality and daring outlook might be just what you’re looking for.

Youtube channel Subscriber count: 1.58M

9. Kimdao – female-centric Japanese content

Japan is well-known for streetwear brands and must-have makeup and beauty products that are miles ahead of many other countries. But it can be difficult to keep up with all these trends, and that’s where Kimdao comes in. Her channel will give you the lowdown on the latest Japanese cosmetic products and shopping hauls.

But if you’re aren’t as invested in Japan’s beauty and fashion industry, Kim has also covered topics like souvenir shopping for cheap at Daiso and Tokyo Plaza in Shibuya .

YouTube channel Subscriber count: 657K

10. Sharmeleon – life in Japan’s countryside

Head to Sharla’s YouTube channel, Sharmeleon, for a detailed look at Northern Japan. From Aomori to Iwate Prefecture, the 34-year-old Canadian-born embarks on road trips to cover attractions that are neither mainstream nor touristy. She also does weekly updates of her life in the countryside.

YouTube channel Subscriber count: 515K

Visiting Japan via travel vloggers

Watching Japanese travel vlogs on YouTube is a surefire way to beef up your knowledge before making the trip itself. But if you’re stuck at home or too broke to jet off, you can satiate your wanderlust free-of-charge on YouTube, thanks to these Japanese travel vloggers. 

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Kisai: 10 of Japan’s Weirdest Festivals

When you watch TV shows featuring something about Japan, more often than not it’s about something quirky or weird. Of course, unusual events don’t take up most part of everyday life in Japan, but where there is smoke, there is fire. Indeed, at times, quirky happenings do take place in Japan and some of the best times to experience those moments is during a kisai (奇祭), or ‘strange festival’. Festivals are generally a time to step away from normal life for a bit and indulge in drinking and festivities, but some of the local matsuri are decidedly weirder than others. Here is a list of the 10 most interesting kisai festivals in Japan!

1. Onbashira Festival (Suwa)

2. namahage sedo festival (akita), 3. yoshida fire festival (mt. fuji), 4. naked festival (aichi), 5. paantu festival (miyako island), 6. kanamara festival (kawasaki), 7. the cursing festival (kasama), 8. kasedori (yamagata), 9. rokugo no kamakura (akita), 10. abare festival (noto peninsula), japan wonder travel tours , other articles you might be interested in.

Once every 7 years, thousands of people help move 16 very large tree trunks from the mountains to the shrines of Suwa in Nagano during the months of April and May. Celebrated for more than 1200 years, during this festival the tree trunks are brought to the two shrines to be made into new pillars. The downhill sections of the route are especially fun to watch (and participate in!) as many people choose to ride the logs on their downward trajectory. Watching as well as riding does come with a risk of injury, so partake at your own risk and be careful!

Website (English)

The Namahage Sedo Festival is held yearly on the 2nd weekend of February (Friday, Saturday and Sunday) in Oga, Akita Prefecture , and revolves around scary-looking demons called ‘namahage’. Namahage hate laziness, and during this festival 15 of them will descend from the mountains at 7:25 pm, come to the bonfire where people are gathered and loudly ask if there are any lazy, misbehaving children around. They walk through the crowd grabbing kids who look like they might have been bad, with the sound of taiko drums in the background. Of course, many kids are scared of them and it is said that around the time of this festival kids tend to behave better. The Namahage Sedo Festival combines the old folklore beliefs of namahage with the shinto festival of Saitousai and has been held this way since the 1960s. The festival is held at the Shinzan Shrine which can be reached by direct bus from Oga Station.

Every year towards the end of Mt. Fuji’s climbing season, the town of Fujiyoshida at the foot of Japan’s most iconic mountain in Yamanashi Prefecture lights up with the glow of long rows of bonfires during the Yoshida Fire Festival on August 26 and 27. The festival’s epicenter is at the Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine where people thank the mountain gods for a safe climbing season and try to delight the gods so that Mt. Fuji won’t erupt. This is done by letting the portable mikoshi shrines drop to the ground as they are being carried through the town’s main street. This produces a rumbling sound similar to that of an erupting volcano, and people hope that this will please the gods. As the fire festival starts at 3:00 pm, it is good to arrive before that if you want to experience it all.

The name gives it away: the Konomiya Hadaka Matsuri, or Naked Festival, which is held in mid-February every year at the Konomiya (Owari Okunitama Shrine) in Aichi Prefecture , and features thousands of naked people but only men can participate. Anyone is allowed to watch though! Dressed in their birthday suit, the men carry a portable shrine around while wearing only a thin loin cloth barely covering anything. One so-called ‘Lucky Man’ is appointed, and it is said that touching him will bring luck in the year to come. The man himself isn’t as lucky though, as he is chased out of the city bringing all other men’s bad luck with him. The festival has been held annually since the 8th century to banish evil, bad luck and disease, and to welcome good fortune. Plenty of sake is consumed by both the participants and the spectators, and there will be many great photo ops. The most interesting festivities start from around 3 pm, so it is best to get there before for the best (or worst…) views.

When the heat tapers off in Miyakojima in the subtropical archipelago of Okinawa and the cooler autumn months begin, a muddy festival called Paantu takes place. The festival is held on a different date each year but tends to fall between late September and mid-October in Hirara city and the Nobaru district. ‘Supernatural creatures’ that are covered in branches and mud go around the village to dish out mud, which in turn chases out evil and brings in luck for those who get smeared with it. The Paantu creatures don’t discriminate between locals and visitors, so if you happen to be around during the festival you should be prepared to get dirty!

The Kanamara Festival, which is held yearly on the first Sunday in April between 10 am and 5 pm in Kawasaki just south of Tokyo , is better known as the ‘Penis Festival’. This makes sense, as the pinnacle of the festival is an array of gigantic penises being paraded through the streets around the Kanayama Shrine, cheered on by thousands of onlookers who snack on phallic-shaped foods. Of course, you can also buy all kinds of related souvenirs, and there will be plenty of unique photo opportunities. Originally, the gods of miners and blacksmiths are revered at this shrine. According to a local legend, a blacksmith helped a goddess recover after giving birth to a fire god, so people started praying here for good fortune in marriage, fertility and childbirth. Praying at this shrine supposedly also helps against contracting STDs (in reality, only condoms can help with that though!), so in the last few decades, this festival has been donating profits to an HIV research charity.

Do you have a bit of a potty mouth? In that case, we have good news for you: every year in December you can get it all out during the Akutai Matsuri, or Cursing Festival, without any negative judgment! The festival takes place between 1:30 pm and 3:30 pm on the 3rd Sunday in December at the Atago Shrine in Kasama, Ibaraki Prefecture , where 13 shrine representatives dressed in white walk up the mountain. People yell out swear words like ‘idiot!’ while grabbing offerings that priests just donated. This supposedly stress-relieving festival has been around since the Edo Period when the local lord wanted to learn what his underlings were unhappy about and came up with this festival so he could hear what was bothering them.

Every year on February 11th between 10 am and 1 pm, strange-looking creatures descend on the castle in Kaminoyama in Yamagata Prefecture . This is the Kasedori Festival, or Strawbird Festival, during which people commemorate a large fire in the 17th century that is said to have been extinguished by a legendary bird called ‘kasedori’. With this festival, the locals pray for fire safety and a fortunate new year. It starts with a prayer at a large bonfire at the entrance square gate of the castle, and when men dressed in straw bird suits enter the grounds, they shriek like birds and are sprayed with water by onlookers. Everyone who gets touched by the water will be lucky for the rest of the year, and if a straw falls from the performers and a girl puts it in her hair, she will have beautiful hair for the rest of her life.

For more than 700 years on February 15, the dark winter night has been lit up with fire in front of the Suwa Shrine in Semboku, Akita Prefecture . During the Rokugo no Kamakura Festival, people pray for a bountiful harvest and good fortune for the coming year with a series of festivities. While the entire festival lasts from February 11 to 15, the highlight happens on the night of February 15 when young men battle using long bamboo sticks which are then ignited and burned in a very large bonfire. If you want to witness the pinnacle of the festival that starts around 8 pm, you should arrive timely at the Suwa Shrine as this festival has become popular over the last few years.

In early summer, an energetic and vibrant festival takes place on the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture . The Abare Festival is held on the first Friday and Saturday of July to commemorate humanity’s victory over an infectious disease in the 17th century. A god called Gozu Tenno supposedly sent a bee whose sting healed those infected with the disease, and the Abare Festival is held to thank this god who particularly likes loud and lively happenings. On Friday evening, with fireworks in the background, 40 lantern floats called ‘kiriko’ are brought from Ushitsu to the main city square where they are carried through pillars of fire with sparks flying everywhere, creating quite the spectacle. But it is on Saturday that the most violent activities take place, with two portable mikoshi shrines being thrown into the water before being completely destroyed and then thrown in a fire, lending this festival its nickname of ‘rampage festival’.

Website (Japanese)

Japan Wonder Travel is a travel agency that offers guided tours throughout Japan.  From private walking tours to delicious Food and Drink tours, we can help you organize the best tours just for you! If you want to explore Japan and learn more about the history and backstories of each area you are visiting, our knowledgeable and friendly English speaking guides will happily take you to the best spots!  In addition, we can provide you with any assistance you may need for your upcoming trip to Japan, so please feel free to contact us if yu have any questions or need some help! 

▶ Tokyo Tsukiji Fish Market Food and Drink Tour Explore the most lively and popular fish market in Tokyo and try some of the local’s favorite street foods and sake with one of our friendly and knowledgeable English speaking guides! 

▶ Tokyo 1–Day Highlights Private Walking Tour (8 Hours) There’s no better way to explore an area than taking a tour with a knowledgeable local guide. You will have the chance to learn about the history and interesting background stories of Tokyo, as well as discover some hidden gems which can be hard to do without a guide.

▶ Mt. Fuji Day Trip Bus Tour from Tokyo Experience the breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji by visiting the highlights of the area on our guided sightseeing bus tour! Departing from Shinjuku in central Tokyo, you can travel comfortably to all of the best spots in the area by bus.

Follow us on Instagram , Facebook , and Twitter for more travel inspiration. Or tag us to get featured!

Happy traveling!

Stefanie Akkerman moved from the Netherlands to Japan in 2013 with her Japanese husband and son. She jumped into the niche of Dutch tour guiding in Tokyo and Kamakura in 2015 and occasionally writes articles about all the great sights and activities Japan has to offer. She loves (Japanese) food, and to work that all off she goes diving, snorkeling, cycling, or hiking.

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8 Weirdest Souvenirs from Japan!

Funny White Elephant Gifts from Japan

Come be the hero of sparkling gifts from your trip to Japan! Make everyone “woo” with the only-in-Japan annoying joke souvenirs.

Dried squid. Very popular sea food snack. Add a kick to your room decoration by hanging or pin to your wall. Can be used as unique room fragrance of mesmerizing aroma of 1-year-straight-worn-without-washing socks! There are shredded types but, of course, the whole squid shaped ones are the best to chase people away from your room.

2. Cat Nose Brooch

Just a glance tells everything and does the work. Wear this to a bar, you won’t believe how quickly it turns on people’s secret instinct to pet a cat, and maybe you.

3. Fish flip-flops

Yeah! Be the Johnny-on-the-spot for your spring break on the hot beach.

Sure to catch countless attentions to YOU (and your flip-flop).

4. Secret Anime tie

Save the stressed out guys that deserve those little healing time during the long day. Being Otaku is not a sin, but no need to advertise to public neither, right?

It would always be helpful to know that even a Reconstruction Minister presented himself with an Evangelion tie at the press conference. So why not YOU?

5. Kaonashi T shirt

Everyone has times you want to just hide-away or ”Spirited away” once in a while. Here is the clue to be an instant hermit. Most recommended for your sanity of mind.

6. Fish Pillow/Cushion

Perfect to go with the list-top Surume to add a final touch to make your room decoration simply perfect. Though no oceanic breeze aroma available disappointingly. If used on your bed, an ultimate ocean fantasy will be utterly yours. Sure to make it a stunning gift to captain Sparrow,too!

7. Tempura USB Memory

Can’t imagine anything better to keep your superb days in Japan. Save them in a nice piece of Tempura. Or when 16GB is not enough for your big appetite, Sushi USB memories are ready as well.

8. Cup Noodle Holder

FREE yourself from all the chains put on you!

Here’s your savior, a guardian angel that watches your cup noodle lid tight and safe while you’re away. It’s absolutely up to your free will to whatever activity you would use this saved 3 minutes. Feel the deep peace inside, let the tears flow, you are…. FREE!!

Have you enjoy the list?? Japan is not only the great country to shop high-tech gadgets and traditional craft works, but also unique, creative and slightly weird items! Why not to shop something (might be totally unnecessary but) fun and to entertain your friends/family back home!

If you wanna check more shopping information in Japan, please take a look at listed articles, too!

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Introducing interesting&beautiful things about Japan!

150 Japan Quotes for Showing Off Your Trip on IG

Beat writer’s block with these Japan quotes for your next Instagram photo dump!

Table of Contents

Japan Quotes That You Will Love

I’ve been to Japan more times than I can count, and I can’t tell you how much I adore the Land of the Rising Sun.

From awe-inspiring landscapes and cultural heritage sites to natural hot springs and delicious street food, Japan’s unique blend of tradition and technological innovations makes it a destination like no other.

If this doesn’t make you want to visit, these Japan quotes are sure to inspire wanderlust. Or, you can use them as Instagram captions for when you come back from your epic adventure!

Best Japan Quotes

• Hello from the Land of the Rising Sun.  
• Money can’t buy you happiness, but it can buy a ticket to Japan.
• Every day in Japan is a new adventure.
• I came. I saw. I fell in love in Japan.
• Feeling like a real-life anime character.
• This trip was so worth the long flight.
• I could explore Japan for a lifetime and never get tired of it.
• When nothing goes right… go to Japan!
• I’m already planning my next trip to Japan.
• Doing this sweet thing called exploring Japan.

• Journey through the Land of the Rising Sun.
• Be the girl who decided to go to Japan and check something off her bucket list.
• I wish you could taste this picture from Japan.  
• Where technology meets tradition in Japan.
• Exploring the beauty of Japan, one temple at a time.
• It’s always worth taking a trip to Japan!

Short Quotes About Japan

• Living my best life in Japan.
• Greetings from Japan.
• Sushi, sake, and good vibes.
• Japan is so kawaii!

• A land of contrasts and beauty.
• The beauty of Japan is in the details.
• Can’t get enough of Japan!
• Feeling the rush of a Shinkansen ride.
• There’s no place like Japan.
• Japan is a photographer’s paradise.
• Never want to leave Japan.
• Lost in the magic of Japan.
• Japan is a land of surprises.
• The ultimate travel destination: Japan.
• Adventure awaits in Japan.
• Japan, you have my heart.
• Arigatou for the memories.

Japan Travel Quotes for Friends

• Discovering Japan’s hidden gems together, one laughter-filled moment at a time.  
• Best friends who explore Japan together, stay together.
• Exploring the Land of the Rising Sun with the best company anyone could ask for.
• Friendship + Japan = epic memories and unforgettable experiences.
• Lost in Japan’s wonders with my squad of adventurers.
• In Japan, every corner is a new adventure when shared with friends.
• The best kind of therapy: Traveling with friends in the enchanting land of Japan.  
• Friendships shine brighter in the vibrant streets of Japan.

Destination-Specific Japan Captions

• Finding peace in the chaos of Tokyo.
• Exploring the vibrant streets of Shibuya.
• The vibrant nightlife of Shinjuku’s Golden Gai.
• Exploring the beauty of Mount Fuji.

• Feeling small in the presence of Mt. Fuji.
• Taking in the stunning views of Mount Fuji.
• Kimono dreams in Kyoto.
• A walk through Kyoto’s famous Gion district.
• Feeling zen in Kyoto’s peaceful gardens.
• I can’t seem to get the beauty of Kyoto off my mind.
• Matching kimonos with my loved one in Kyoto.
• A peaceful stroll through the bamboo forest of Arashiyama.
• Konnichiwa Osaka!
• Sampling delicious street food in Osaka.
• Never coming home. Staying in Osaka forever.
• Discovering the beauty of Hokkaido.
• A snowy wonderland in Hokkaido.
• Discovering the beauty of Japan’s countryside.

For more quotes on the capital, see my “ Tokyo Quotes ” post.

Cherry Blossom Quotes

• Cherry blossom dreamin’.
• Sakura is calling my name!
• Kiss me under the cherry blossoms.
• Catching a glimpse of the cherry blossoms in full bloom.
• Cherry blossoms and Mt. Fuji – a perfect combination.
• There’s nothing quite like walking through ancient Japanese gardens during cherry blossom season!
• Sakura season in full bloom.
• Cherry blossoms are finally here… You Tokyo time.
• Sushi, sakura, and skyscrapers.
• Captivating beauty of Japan’s cherry blossom season.
• Just me and a bunch of cherry blossom trees.

Sushi Quotes

• Happiness is going on a sushi date in Japan.
• Sushi is calling and I must go.
• Life’s too short to say no to sushi!
• Sushi and sight-seeing, please!
• Sushi time and feeling fine.

• This sushi is shrimply the best!
• Eat. Sleep. Sushi. Repeat.
• Sushi is a bite-sized piece of happiness.
• Life is better with a side of wasabi and soy sauce!
• Our Ja-plan is sushi and sightseeing.
• Sushi is an edible work of art.
• Sushi is my go-to when I’m feeling raw-some.
• In a world full of fish, be a sushi roll!
• Sushi is like a mini vacation.
• She believed she could, sushi did.
• What did the sushi say to the bee? Wasabi.
• Sushi is my love language.
• Each sushi represents a different patch of sea under a different shade of sky.

More Quotes About Japanese Food

• But first, let’s sip matcha in Japan.
• Eating my way through Japan.

• Japan’s street food is a culinary symphony that dances on your tastebuds.
• In Japan, the streets come alive with the sizzle and aroma of delectable street food delights.
• Eating all the goodies in Japan.
• Ramen is the perfect meal for any time of day.
• Japan’s street food scene is a gateway to a world of flavors, where every bite is an adventure.
• Sorry I wasn’t listening, I was thinking about ramen.
• Itadakimasu!
• Enjoying my bento box on a bullet train.
• The more matcha, the merrier.
• No trip to Japan is complete without trying at least one bowl of ramen.

Japanese Food Puns

• I love Japan very mochi.  
• Once udon a time in Japan.
• Food here is soy awesome.
• Japan, you make miso happy.
• Thank U, Next bowl of ramen. (In reference to Ariana Grande’s “Thank U, Next.”)
• I’ll always ramen-ber my time in Japan.
• Tokyo, you make me want to sake it up and dance!
• Japan, I love you very matcha.
• I’m a hopeless ramentic for you.
• Rice and shrine! It’s Japan exploring time!

• Have you heard what Japan has instead of alphabet soup? Times New Ramen.
• How do you address cheese in Japan? Parme-san.
• Udon know how much I love Japanese food.
• Japan, I’m soy into you.

Other Funny Japan Puns

• Japan is full of his-torii-c cities.
• You and I are a love s-torii.
• Having a tea-riffic time in Japan.
• Soaking up Japan’s onsen culture.
• Shrine bright like a diamond.

Popular Japanese Sayings & Japanese Proverbs

• 七転び八起き – Fall down seven times, get up eight times.
• 花より団子 – Dumplings over flowers, meaning “substance over style.”
• 色気より食い気 – Eat before falling in love.
• 酒は本心を表す – Alcohol shows your true feelings.
• 残り物には福がある   – The greatest fortune and value in life are those things left behind by others.

• 惚れた病に薬なし – There is no medicine for falling in love.
• 思えば思わるる   – Love and be loved.
• 踏まれた草にも花が咲く – Flowers can still bloom on grass that has been stomped on.
• 一期一会 – Once-in-a-lifetime encounter.
• 花鳥風月 – Experience the beauty of nature, and in doing so, you learn about yourself.
• 郷に入っては郷に従え – When in Rome, do as the Romans do.

Japanese Quotes on Love

• 生まれ変わったら、あなたをもっと早く見つけるだろう。If I were to live my life again, I’d find you sooner.
• 私があなたを見るとき、目の前に私の残りの人生が見えます。When I look at you, I see the rest of my life in front of my eyes.
• 愛は風のよう、あなたはそれを見ることはできませんが、それを感じることができます。Love is like the wind. You can’t see it, but you can feel it.
• いつも嵐の後の私の虹でいてくれてありがとう。Thank you for always being my rainbow after the storm.
• 私はあなたを見つけたので、楽園は要りません。私にはあなたがいるので、夢は要りません。I don’t need paradise because I found you. I don’t need dreams because I have you.
• あなたのそばが、私のお気に入りの場所です。Together with you is my favorite place to be.

Famous Quotes About Japan

• “In Japan, even the smallest things are beautiful.” – Marie Kondo.
• “To know Japan is to love it.” – Ruth Benedict.
• “Japan is a place of contrasts, where the ancient meets the modern and the natural meets the man-made.” – Sandra Bullock.

• “Japan is a truly magical place, one that will capture your heart and soul.” – Rick Steves.
• “In Japan, people don’t say ‘I love you;’ they say ‘I suffer because of you.’” – Haruki Murakami.
• “Japan, for me, will always be my inspiration source.” – Nicola Formichetti.
• “The serenity and grace of Japan is a sight to behold.” – Jack Hannah.
• “Japan is a wonderland of hidden gems awaiting your visit.” – Takashi Sato.
• “In Japan, they have honor, tradition, and a sense of duty.” – Michelle Yeoh.
• “If it has not been invented in Japan, then it has not been invented anywhere else.” – Amelia Danver.
• “Japan is a country where the past and present coexist in harmony.” – Paul Theroux.
• “In Japanese culture, there is a belief that God is everywhere – in mountains, trees, rocks, even in our sympathy for robots or Hello Kitty toys.” – Ryuichi Sakamoto.
• “To truly understand Japan, you have to visit it multiple times.” – Anthony Bourdain.

Don’t forget to pin these aesthetic Japanese quotes for later and follow me  @mysuitcasejourneys for more travel inspo!

Need more ideas?

Check out these other caption guides .

I’m a Taiwanese Canadian gal from Vancouver, Canada. I love documenting my experiences through photography, and I can’t wait to share my adventures with you. Follow me around the world for the best intel on where to eat, where to stay, and what to do!

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20 Embarrassing Travel Stories That Will Make You Laugh & Blush

Looking for embarrassing travel stories ?

Then you’re in the right place!

Recently, I asked some of my favorite travel bloggers to share stories of embarrassing moments from the road.

Get ready to laugh, blush, learn some important lessons, and be reminded that travel isn’t always perfect. In fact, sometimes it can be downright hard.

Additionally, travel can be quite a humbling experience and, in my opinion, is best enjoyed when the traveler removes expectations and rolls with the punches.

Table of Contents

Ultimate Travel Planning Kit

Before we dive into the embarrassing funny stories , I want to invite you to grab access to my free Ultimate Travel Planning Resource Library .

The resource library features planning printables, travel quizzes, trip guides, Google Maps, and spreadsheets that make travel planning a lot easier — and even fun!

Grabbed access?

Then let’s dive into the list of embarrassing true stories from the road.

Embarrassing Travel Stories That Will Make You Blush

1. an embarrassing moment on an italian train.

If you enjoy short funny travel stories , you’ll love this.

My now-husband and I were at the end of an Italy road trip , and were dropping off our rental car in Naples, where we would board a train to Milan.

Because Naples is known as the birthplace of pizza, we decided to get some before our departure.

A few locals recommended L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele, so off we went, thinking we could grab a quick slice.

We waited over two hours for a small pie and then had to race for our train. It was our first time taking the train in Naples, too, so we weren’t even positive where the station was.

Luckily we made it, though I was extremely sweaty once we got to our seats. In an attempt to cool down, I went to the bathroom and changed into a dry bra and t-shirt, throwing the drenched clothing in my backpack.

Because we were disorganized from our mad dash, I started rummaging through my backpack and moving items around once I got back to my seat.

I must have been really disoriented, because a few minutes later after I had sat back down the man in the seat behind me tapped me on the shoulder.

“Umm…I believe this is yours.”

It was my sweaty bra and t-shirt, which had somehow fallen into his lap.

Turning bright red, I took the garments, turned around, and stayed silent for the rest of the trip.

Talk about stories of embarrassing moments!

-Jessie Festa from Jessie on a Journey

2. That time I fell into a fountain in Australia

If you love crazy travel stories that are also funny, here is one of my hilarious embarrassing stories from when I studied abroad in Sydney, Australia.

It involves me making a fool of myself in front of my brand new friends and also showing them how terribly uncoordinated I am.

My most embarrassing travel story

I’ve shared the story in video form (above) for a fun twist.

This is one of my favorite short travel stories , and one my friends from study abroad still bring up to this day. Luckily, we laugh about it now!

I’m not going to lie, I momentarily contemplated hopping on a plane back home to New York, as this truly is one of my most embarrassing stories.

-Jessie Festa of Jessie on a Journey

3. No touching in Japan

One of my favorite travel experience stories takes place in Japan.

The Japanese are the most polite, civilized, and obliging people we’ve ever met. Everything is done with a sweet smile and a polite bow.

We also noticed that in Japanese culture, personal space is a big deal, as is touching — or should I say, no touching!

Whereas quite a few Western cultures are docile with each other when it comes to general greetings — such as a kiss on the cheek in France and Italy, or a hug or handshake in the USA and UK — in Japan, this is a big fat no!

I learned this the hard way, and it turned out to be one of those funny embarrassing moments in public.

During a packed Tokyo metro journey one morning, I gave up my seat to an elderly Japanese woman who was standing up. She warmly accepted my offer and was very grateful to me — so grateful that she began to perform a series of very dramatic bows to me.

I wanted to tell her it was no big deal and did this by reaching out to pat her shoulder (this was pre-Covid days!).

This would be a natural thing to do back home to someone who had done something sweet to me and I wanted to express gratitude.

But as soon as I did this, the woman’s smile disappeared and the bowing stopped!

She gave me a look of concern, then cringed and briskly took her seat. Honestly, she looked at me like I was some kind of perpetrator but quickly stopped when the confused expression on my face showed that I meant her no harm.

I later learned that in Japan, touching is a big no-no, especially with people you’ve never met.

As such, the traditional form of greeting someone in Japan is to bow to each other with around 1 meter of distance so as to respect personal space. 

In hindsight, I should have reacted to the woman by smiling and bowing back to her.

– Stefan Arestis and Sebastien Chaneac of  Nomadic Boys  gay travel blog

4. Aussie slang confusion

We were two Aussie travelers experiencing some of the highlights of the USA.

I had been around the block traveling for a few years and knew some of the language variations between the two English-speaking countries.

My friend however, was a bit of a novice when it came to this.

After arriving in the bright shiny city of Las Vegas, we ventured out to explore. A popular choice was watching one of the stage shows available at nearly every casino on the strip.

As I had booked most of our activities before leaving Australia, we were asked to come and collect the tickets for our show earlier in the day.

Now, let me preface what comes next with this:

When it comes to Aussie slang, the best words are the ones that sound like something familiar but mean something completely different.

So when picking up the tickets from the booking clerk, we were trying to understand the signage and dress code suitable for entering the theatre.

My friend then proceeded to ask:

“Can we wear thongs?”

There was a blank stare and a cheeky smirk from the booking guy and I instantly replied to him that my friend wasn’t asking him if she needed to wear “underwear,” but was in fact asking if we could wear flip-flops.

When understanding what he thought she meant, my friend’s face turned bright red. The booking guy then started laughing loudly while saying it was okay to wear that kind of footwear.

It didn’t take my friend long to walk away in embarrassment. There were no more questions to ask after that.

– Chris of The Aquarius Traveller

5. Naked and afraid in Mexico

If you love funny embarrassing stories, here is when I ended up naked at the beach in Mexico.

I learned the hard way that the beaches in Mexico are not to be trifled with!

I’d been swimming at a local beach on Mexico’s Pacific Coast almost every day without any problems, floating lazily in the waves with the sun on my face and not a care in the world.

Until one particular day everything changed. The water looked much as it always did — there were no red flags flying or other beach warnings — but within minutes I found myself drifting further and further from the beach.

I wasn’t alone, either. Many other people were looking at the shore and attempting to swim in, only to get pummelled in the cresting waves.

Just as I started to really tire of treading water, there appeared to be a lull in the wave action so I decided to make a mad paddle to shore. 

It didn’t take long before I got caught in a breaking wave. It churned me around in the surf like a washing machine then tossed me onto the sand at the water’s edge.

I clawed my way up the sand and away from the incoming waves. Even though my mouth was full of sand and my hair twisted like a corkscrew on top of my head, I was so grateful to be alive. I just lay there on the sand gulping for air and staring at the sun. 

Until I realized that in the turbulent wave action both the top and bottom of my bikini had been ripped off my body and were nowhere to be seen. I was stark naked.

The only saving grace was that the same thing had happened to an elderly man and there were actually two of us in the buff in the sand.

Thank goodness for the kindness of strangers , as some kind onlookers ran over to help and provided us with some towels so we could find our beach umbrellas. I was grateful to be alive but very embarrassed!

– Michele of A Taste for Travel

6. Sick in Turkey

Unfortunately, I’m all too familiar with throwing up in airports and on planes. I tend to push myself to my limits and on my honeymoon in Turkey, I was no different.

After a week of whirlwind wedding activities, which included chauffeuring a car full of Argentinian in-laws all over Texas, my husband and I boarded a 15-hour flight to Istanbul.

I ignored my mother-in-law’s advice to only take one sleeping pill and popped a second confidently. It had been eight hours since the first; surely, I was fine.

I was  not  fine.

“Do you see ants?” I remember asking my new husband.

He did! We may have been in bad shape but at least we hallucinated together. Talk about a romantic travel love story !

We landed with zero rest. Did it stop us? Of course not!

Ant hallucinations and exhaustion be damned, we were going to explore Istanbul.

And explore we did. We squeezed every minute out of that 20-hour layover before we found ourselves back at the airport, even more exhausted than before. 

We got into the massive queue to check-in for our flight. Immediately I realized all was not well. I told my husband that I didn’t feel quite right but leaving our spot in this long line was not an option.

“Suck it up, Erin,” I told myself. “It won’t be too long.”

In the meantime, I scoped out the room, searching for the closest bathroom. I saw the iconic sign in the distance, the triangle dress that tells everyone everywhere that there’s a restroom here. I kept my eye on it, my oasis, for the entire wait, plotting my route to salvation. 

A short eternity later the gate agent handed me back my passport.

I was off; power walking to the restroom with everything around me a blur.

Barely making it, I barged in — in the clumsy way that only a loud American in Europe can do — grabbed the closest trash can, and got sick. 

That is, until I raised my gaze and felt immediate shame.

I was not in the bathroom at all, but a prayer room!

Devout Muslim women from around the world were knelt down in prayer. I had desecrated their prayer room.

Mumbling apologies I can only hope they understood I slinked out of the room vowing never to exhaust myself in such a way ever again.

– Erin of Sol Salute

7. When nature calls in Greece

I had just landed in Athens from Santorini. Before leaving Athens for my next destination, I had about nine hours to kill.

As I was backpacking, I did not want to go to a hotel. Instead, I planned to explore Athens on foot.

I had a heavy backpack with me, though even so, I was happy to see the ruins and architecture of Athens.

It was a warm day, but I tried not to drink too much water to avoid needing the bathroom.

After five hours of walking, I could not resist any further. I was both hungry and thirsty.

I did not have much money left as I was approaching the end of the Euro trip; however, I entered a restaurant and ordered some food. I don’t know how many bottles of free tap water I drank, but it was the tastiest water I ever had!

When I left the restaurant, I had about three more hours to catch a flight.

Before going to the airport, I wanted to have one last look at Athens.

All was going well, until about 30 minutes later when I felt immense pressure in my bladder.

I knew at that very moment that I couldn’t wait until I got to the airport. Thinking back to how much water I’d drank at the restaurant, I wanted to kick myself — though instead started looking for a toilet.

I was in a place surrounded by historic buildings, so I was sure that I could find a toilet inside of any of them; however, after storming into one of them I found that it was closed.

Time was running out.

I could not think straight. The Greek letters listed everywhere only made me more puzzled. I searched for a place on Google Maps, but no luck.

Then I saw a large green park; the National Garden.

Entering it, I knew it was not right, however; I didn’t have any alternative. All that I needed was a dark, quiet place.

Luck was not on my side that day; the garden was well lit with plenty of people jogging.

I didn’t care.

I unzipped, and stood in the middle of the garden, with shouts of disbelief around me making my ears warm and red with embarrassment.

But the only thing that mattered at that moment was the heavenly pleasure I felt in those 30 seconds (yes, you read it right; it was more than a liter, I guess!).

I ran away as fast as I could afterward! 

– Fuad of A Walk in the World

8. That time I ended up in a porn studio

I normally organize my own adventures and am not great at paying attention when other people are in charge.

So, it’s no wonder that I accidentally ended up on a porn studio tour.

I blame Alvin.

You see, Alvin runs an urbex photography group that I’m a member of.

We go out and shoot things like tunnels, ghost towns, and abandoned buildings. For such a pretty city, you’ll be surprised to know that there are quite a few places like that in San Francisco.

Alvin arranged a shoot in San Francisco’s Mission District , which included a visit to the historic Mission Dolores cemetery, an outside art studio, and The Armory.

When Alvin described The Armory, here’s what I registered:

A historic military building that was used as an arsenal during WWI. The building is cool because remnants of the now-covered Mission Creek rise up from the ground and flow through a channel in the basement.

Here’s what I didn’t register:

At the time of our tour, The Armory was owned by a porn magnate and was used as a film studio and S&M event venue.

My friend who had previously done the same tour swears that she told me, but all I heard was blah blah cemetery blah blah creek in basemen t.

I showed up on the appointed night to learn that our tour guide specialized in a very particular kind of Japanese rope bondage and that she was sponsored by a rope company from Texas that also supplied rodeos.

I also learned what BDSM stands for — prior to the illuminating tour, I had only heard of the S and M parts.

Additionally, I learned that robots can be configured with very insistent motorized prosthetic devices.

And also, that the studio provided worker’s compensation insurance and deployed a sophisticated database that housed all of their freelance talent, tagged by skill.

The creek in the basement was pretty cool, too.

– Carol of California Crossings

9. Getting a bit too drunk in Cambodia

On my first ever backpacking trip I went to Southeast Asia .

Just like most budget backpackers, I loved to have a few drinks in the evening — especially when they were cheap! 

However, when I visited the island of Koh Rong in Cambodia, that’s when the cheap drinks didn’t work out so well for me.  

Koh Rong is the perfect place for backpackers who want to party.

This tiny sandy island is full of bars and lively hostels. I managed to pick up a 750 ml bottle of rum for only $1 USD and I was thrilled! After a big day in the sun, I was going to really enjoy some rum, and that’s exactly what I did.

My sister, boyfriend, and I all went to a friend’s hostel that night.

Long story short, I ended up drinking nearly the entire bottle of rum all to myself! I don’t remember getting back to our hostel, but my boyfriend tells me he had to pretty much carry me there and lift me into bed.  

I was staying in a dormitory room and had the top bunk. As with many hostels, my bunk bed didn’t have a railing. Me, in my drunken passed-out slumber, actually rolled off the bed in my sleep! 

Thump!  

I hit the concrete floor hard and woke up startled only after feeling the pain, which is when I also began screaming.

I’d pretty much belly-flopped onto the floor. The thump was very loud and so were my screams and drunken cries. 

Besides my body being bruised, my ego was, too.

I woke up the entire 10-bed dorm room and strangers were actually laughing at me. Talk about a travel fail !

Needless to say, I got made fun of by other travelers for the duration of my stay in Koh Rong, and my sister and boyfriend still bring it up today.

I did learn a lesson, though:

Never sleep on the top bunk without a railing, especially if you’ll be drinking rum!

– Bailey of Destinationless Travel

10. An embarrassing bathroom moment on a coach

It was a sunny summer morning, and I was super excited to finally take my mom to explore London. I was a student and lived in the southeast of England.

We woke up early and headed to the bus station to get onto the two-hour coach to London. We sat at the front of the bus, and straight away I regretted eating that dodgy fish the night prior.

My stomach was cramping, and the feeling of needing the toilet was building up. The coach was already on the motorway with no scheduled stops until London.

You know that feeling when the physiological need is so strong you know you won’t be able to ignore it, and you must go?

Well, that’s how bad it was.

Luckily, the coach had a toilet, so my mom suggested I use it. I really had no other option, so I went.

The cubicle was tiny, and it was not easy to use the toilet inside a moving bus. When I got out and walked back to my seat, I noticed everyone was covering their faces and either looking away or giving me a disgusted glance.

When I got back to my seat, my mom told me the whole bus received the “toilet waft” through the air conditioning.

I was so embarrassed I wanted to disappear, and my amused mother could not stop giggling. She still brings the story up on family gatherings. 

– Mal from Raw Mal Roams

11. Flash flight

The year was 1999, and my significant other suggested we ring in the Millennium in Hawaii.

On our final day in Hawaii, we planned a trip from Oahu to Maui. We leisurely drove the Road to Hana, keeping track of the time to get to our reservation at the fancy restaurant for dinner and making the last flight out back to Oahu.

In typical fashion, we were running late. I rushed to change into my super cute summer dress and strappy sandals that I bought specifically for this occasion.

And we barely made it on time for the reservation!

After scarfing down dinner and dessert, we headed to the airport for the last flight out with no time to spare. We swiftly returned our rental car and then sprinted to the gate.

Of course, we were easily 10 minutes too late for the last flight out. We rushed anyways to the gate to see if, by chance, we could make it. After running by a line of people about 30 deep to our empty appearing gate, we asked frantically, “Can we still board?”

She replied that our gate had changed to that one, as she pointed to the gate with the line.

Whew! We made it.

At this point, I was extremely embarrassed, though my S.O. — who was trying to calm me down — didn’t really know why.

After we boarded and settled in, I confessed that my cute little summer dress had tucked up under my backpack while running to the empty gate.

He says, “So what? They saw your underwear. Whatever.”

That was the kicker.

When we rushed to change to get to the restaurant on time, I could not find my underwear! My derriere was in full effect for the entire line waiting to board the flight.

I will be forever grateful (and mortified) for the multiple beers sent my way during that flight. I guess they won’t forget it either.

-Jennifer Bhatia of Traveling Party Of Four

12. Queen of the ice

My family and I were on a cruise vacation when my husband, my daughter (who was 14 years old at the time), and I decided to try out the onboard ice skating rink on one of the sea days.

I grew up in Minnesota — though hadn’t ice skated in years — and my family had never ice skated before, which made me the most experienced in the group.

As we were going around the rink, I decided to go backward to look at them and help guide them on their skates.

Big mistake.

As I was turning, I stumbled and fell, banging my head on the ice rink wall.

Even though I was wearing a helmet, I still ended up with a concussion and barely remember the next three days of our trip!

-Adrienne Bibb of Addy and Terry

13. When planes almost collide

My embarrassing story happened in the air!

After an extremely hectic week of back-to-back travel, I was terribly tired and all I wanted was a comfortable bed to crash into.

But here I was, standing in a long immigration queue on my way to another destination. By the time I cleared every hurdle including waiting to board my flight, I could hardly keep my eyes open.

I fell fast asleep on the plane as soon as I put on my seat belt — even before the doors were closed. The flight was in the evening and as usual, I had my window seat.

After dozing off for a few hours, I suddenly woke up to some announcements made by the captain. Probably we were passing through turbulence. It was night time and most of the passengers were fast asleep.

With groggy eyes, I looked out of the window and was horrified!

I saw a small plane flying parallel to ours. The plane was neither slowing down nor changing its direction — it was as if it was participating in a race with us.

At that moment I thought the two planes were quickly going to collide. Seriously, this was quickly becoming one of my most dangerous travel stories !

I also thought it was my duty to inform the captain. Perhaps he hadn’t noticed that this tiny plane was so close to ours! I shook my sleeping co-passenger to let me out and called the air-hostess, too.

When I told them the situation, my co-passenger leaned over my seat to look out. And then he laughed out loud. I seriously thought he had lost his mind.

What I was told next made me go very red in the cheeks:

It was actually the wing of our airplane and not another plane. I wanted to vanish from the scene.

Moral of the story:

Sleep well before taking a flight.

– Nisha & Vasu of Lemonicks

14. The unexpected power of women’s panties

One day, during our backpacking trip in Myanmar, we decided to go to quite a distant and non-touristy area in Rakhine State to visit the beautiful temple town of Mrauk U.

When we arrived at our accommodation, a kind elderly lady greeted us. She spoke just a few words in English.

Noticing that there was a washing machine for guests at the reception, we decided it was time to do laundry. We brought a bag with our clothes and the woman pointed to her husband and told us that he would take it.

And then it happened.

The man and woman started a very loud Burmese conversation. We didn’t understand a word.

Her husband threw the laundry bag back to us. And the angry woman started pointing to us, first to my boyfriend and later to me, but we still didn’t understand the situation, so we just took our clothes and went back to the room. Well, we were surprised and also very curious about what had happened, so we did a few Google searches and immediately discovered the reason:

Burmese people are very superstitious and believe that a man can’t touch a woman’s underwear because this will “sap them of their power.”

So the poor lady thought we wanted to hurt her husband!

– Adriana of Czech the World

15. Getting fined for public indecency

While traveling Africa along the east coast, I made friends with the crew and passengers on an overland truck at a campsite in Malawi. The group was on a tour through several African countries.

Everyone on the truck agreed it was okay for me to get a ride with them from Malawi to Zambia.

It was a hot day and I drank a lot of water on the way. We arrived on the border with Zambia after a long day of driving, which is when I urgently started looking around for a toilet.

It was not much of a border post and I headed for a tree not far away on this barren landscape, thinking it was far enough away, and that nobody would really spot me behind the tree.

Unfortunately, I was very wrong and the Zambian police took “public indecency” in the middle of nowhere very seriously.

On the way back I was met by an officer with a gun who took me to his superior. He told me that I broke the law, it was seen as a serious offense, and that he was going to charge me with public indecency.

Ultimately, I was issued a fine — that I had to go and pay at the magistrate’s office in the nearby town.

It was an uncomfortable situation since I was not even a paying client on the tour I was hitching a ride with. I was very grateful that the tour leader did not just leave me there and that the truck took me to pay the fine with a police escort.

Overall, I was quite embarrassed that the guests had to drive the detour to town and wait for me in the truck on an extremely hot day while I paid the penalty at the government office.

– Campbell of Stingy Nomads

16. A massage in Cambodia

Angkor Wat in Cambodia is undoubtedly one of the world’s most iconic destinations and deservedly a bucket list item for many.

However, my overriding memory of our fabulous day exploring Angkor Wat is unfortunately not the sunrise reflecting in the lily pond but a massage, a pair of pajamas at least three sizes too small, and an unwelcome appearance.

Following our incredible Angkor Wat tour, the complimentary massage from our hotel would be just what we needed.

Two young local women greeted my wife and me and provided us with the garments we needed to change into.

My wife went to the sole changing room so I stayed in the massage room and disrobed.

As I removed the garments from their packaging it was clear that the extra-large I’d requested to cover my 6’2″ frame was far too small.

Somehow I managed to squeeze myself into the three quarter length linen trousers and decided not to breathe deeply for the next 45 minutes.

As I bent over to place my clothes neatly in the corner, the door to the room opened, and in walked the two massage therapists and my wife. This noise and their greetings covering the unmistakable sounds of ripping cloth from my crotch area.

Believing this could not be too bad I laid down on my front next to my wife as instructed and started to relax as the oils were applied and the massage began.

I remained very conscious of the rip but thought if I stayed in that position there wouldn’t be any issues. Unfortunately it was only a couple of minutes before I was asked to roll over and move into a variety of new positions.

Almost immediately both therapists started whispering and sniggering — with my wife completely unaware of my predicament and the difficult situation unfolding.

The massage finished with a vigorous neck and head massage, so the therapist asked me to sit with my head down between my legs. As I moved into position the cause of the laughter was literally swinging beneath me. I was gobsmacked and clueless as to how to react.

Suffice to say I tipped rather generously that day and was incredibly relieved that my wife found the funny side when I answered her question as to why I thought they were laughing throughout the massage.

On our various travels through Asia I’ve always been careful to ensure we follow traditions and not mistakenly cause offence.

Well, that afternoon I completely ruined years of hard work!

– Paul of The Two That Do

17. That time my clothes were stolen by baboons

I spent the summer of 2018 in Cape Town, well-known as one of the most beautiful cities in the world. It’s famed not only for its natural setting and dramatic coastline but also for the wildlife living in the surrounding region.

Little did I know I would be having a very close encounter with one of its most visible and intriguing animals, the chacma baboons, on a day out at the beach. 

The city’s good weather year-round makes it a popular destination for beach lovers.

It was almost midday when the African sun is at its peak, so I decided to go for a swim, leaving everything behind and wrapping myself in a towel on the beach.

The waters along the Cape Coast are some of the coldest and I couldn’t have been away for more than 10 minutes before noticing a group of these baboons grabbling through my belongings.

A quick dash towards them and they scattered — though unfortunately they did not leave much behind. My clothes were missing and those that remained were left tattered.

The good news:

The baboons hadn’t shown much interest in my wallet, but I was forced to spend the rest of the day — including my way back home on public transportation — in nothing but short swim trunks and an embarrassed smile. 

Following the incident, I heard that the baboons of Cape Point are the only ones in their species that mine the beaches for seafood. And being protected under environmental law, they have become brazen in their attempts, raiding houses and belongings, and even mugging people.

Lesson learned.

– Rai of A Rai of Light

18. Lost menstrual cup

One of the unglamorous things female travelers have to think about is our menstrual cycle. It is not a fun topic, but it is our reality.

Over the last few years, I made the decision to switch to more eco-friendly sustainable options that do not involve plastic.

This particular story starts with my family’s big move to Mexico, during the pandemic.

My cycle decided to show up two days before the big move, so that was fun. I headed to the airport confident in my menstrual cup because it hadn’t failed me in several months.

While on the flight I had to remove the cup and couldn’t get it back in. The passengers could hear me rattling and moving things around in the lavatory, as I tried to get the menstrual cup inserted.

After almost 10 minutes I gave up and decided to return back up to my seat, and use my back-up protection.

When I exited the lavatory, I could see everyone staring at me, wondering why there was so much commotion.

After sitting down I realized I didn’t have my menstrual cup. The first thought that came to mind was that I accidentally flushed the cup.

I started to panic. Did I drop it on my way back to my seat? What if someone finds it?

After 15 minutes, I returned to the lavatory to see if my cup was on the floor.

Finally, it hit me. I went through the trash in the lavatory and found my menstrual cup. I was so relieved to find it still wrapped in the paper towel.

Although it is funny now, at the time I was freaking out.

– Corritta from  My Eco Flow

19. Dropping my underwear in Vegas

Before I get into the nitty-gritty of how, one faithful hot and sweaty August day, I displayed my panties to the world, there are a few details you need to know.

The last time I had been to Vegas, in 2015, all of the hotels on The Strip had free parking. Fast forward to 2017, I had flown to Vegas for a quick and cheap weekend trip.

My Vegas crew got me free entrance and drinks to the day club at MGM Grand, so after I landed, I hopped in my rental car and drove to the hotel.

Only to find out that parking at the MGM Grand was now paid.

And expensive.

So, in the name of being a budget queen, I drove to the very far away Venetian Hotel because they were one of the only hotels left with free parking.

But that left me with another problem:

I was now going to be late for the party. 

Free entry — but most importantly free drinks — was only available for a limited time, and I now had only 45 minutes to get down The Strip and into the pool of the MGM Grand if I wanted to secure my free wristband.

I quickly changed into my swimsuit in the car, throwing a dress on top and a change of clothes — aka what I had been wearing on the plane — in my mini backpack as I dashed out of the parking lot.

Practically jogging down the strip in the blazing summer sun, I shuffled around in my backpack for my sunscreen. After half-hazardly sloshing it over my arms, face, and parts of my leg — I had to do a little hop to get my ankles as I walked — I slung my backpack to the side to plop the sunscreen back in.

A few seconds later, someone tapped me on the shoulder:

“Um, Miss…”

I turned around and spotted what everyone was now looking at. A lump of colorful (worn) underwear.

My worn underwear.

Just as I was about to pretend I had never in my life seen that panda MeUndies print before, the person who tapped me added, loudly, “It fell out of your backpack.”

I snatched up my underwear and ran into the nearest hotel lobby. I never made it to the pool party.

– Kay from The Awkward Traveller

20. The locked hotel room in Hong Kong

One of my most embarrassing travel moments was the time when I was locked out of my room in Hong Kong during Chinese New Year.

After a long flight from Auckland, New Zealand, I was exhausted and just wanted to get to my hostel as soon as possible.

Because it was Chinese New Year, I had already booked a room as I didn’t want to run the risk of ending up on the street because everything was full. I had booked a room in one of the countless hostels in the Chungking Mansions complex.

That was a mistake. A big mistake. Don’t go there. Ever! 

It’s a maze — and not in a fun way. My husband and I walked around for an hour after we finally managed to find what was supposed to be our room; however, when we arrived, there was nobody there.

So I called the number scribbled on a piece of paper pasted on the door and was told my reservation was canceled.

Just like that.

There I was, on Chinese New Year, bone-tired and without a place to stay. 

But wait, it gets worse… 

Out of thin air, a guy emerged and told me he had a room for me. As dodgy as I found this, I was too tired to care so I went with him.

He showed me the room and I quickly agreed. So far so good.

But then I made the monumental mistake of leaving the room to see the parade — because I couldn’t justify being in Hong Kong during Chinese New Year and not watching the parade that passed in front of Chungking Mansions.

I mean, this was a once in a lifetime opportunity!

Tired as I was, I pulled myself together and went to see the parade. That was the only fun part of this disastrous night.  

When I got back to my room and put the key in the lock nothing happened. I pushed and wriggled and cursed and tried and finally burst out in tears because I couldn’t get the door to open.

Luckily the people in the adjourning room came to check out the noise of me trying to break down the door and gave me the number of the guy who had shown me to the room.

So, I called him and after an hour he finally arrived and opened the door. Needless to say, I changed hotels the next day. 

– Lotte from  Gezond Weekmenu

Bonus Short Travel Stories

Looking for more short stories about traveling the world ? Check out:

25 Crazy Travel Stories You Need To Read To Believe

23 Inspiring Travel Stories Sharing The Kindness Of Strangers

16 Short Funny Travel Stories That Will Make You Laugh Out Loud

38 Inspiring Travel Love Stories From The Road

17 True Short Adventure Travel Stories To Inspire Your Next Trip

Sexual Assault Stories From The Road (& What I’ve Learned)

8 Crazy NYC Subway Stories That Will Make You Hail A Cab

A Host’s Perspective: My Worst Airbnb Horror Stories

21 Travel Horror Stories About Scary Travel Experiences

Do you have any embarrassing travel stories to add?

What are your craziest travel stories from the road.

Enjoyed these embarrassing travel stories? Pin them for later!

Related posts:

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I loved reading these stories! I always have at least one embarrassing story from my travels so I’m glad I’m not alone!

What a crazy collection of stories! I would be so mortified to wind up naked on a public beach!

Such a good post! Thanks for sharing. Really very useful and informative post.

Today is very meaningful when I read your article, it helps me to know more things, very useful to me, thank you for your dedication to write such a good article.

I’m a conscious solo traveler on a mission to take you beyond the guidebook to inspire you to live your best life through travel.

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Funny Japanese English Translations That Both Entertain And Confuse You

As the world turns it’s interest to Japan as one of the hottest travel destinations, naturally, there has been some company’s who attempt to adapt their products to appeal to a western audience. In Japan, seeing English has the same sort of appeal that Japanese has on clothes in western countries. This has gotten to a point where randomly, you will see English words intertwined with Japanese words on product packaging or marketing material, forming what is commonly referred to as, Japanglish. 

A lot of the time however, this attempt to appeal to the market is often done without native language speakers, and instead, the marketing teams who come up with the packaging, often turn to everyone’s favourite translation tool, Google Translate.  This, leads to some interesting results. Here are some of the best Japanglish that we’ve come across. To this day, we still have no clue what message was trying to be conveyed. 

1. This Soft-Serve Ice Cream store loves their cows.

2. This Storage box

They almost had it right.

3. I don't even know what this product is -but it looks fun and exciting!

4. This menu has apparently been in charge of the direction of my life

5. This green tea has magic powers

Popular destinations among other readers

• Katsura River – Kyoto
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• Don Quijote Ferris Wheel – Osaka
• Iwatayama Monkey Park – Kyoto
• 7 Beppu Hells (Jigoku) – Oita

Start planning your trip to Japan, book your accommodation now!

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Have you come across Japanglish? Want to share your findings with us? Please feel free to contact us with what you’ve come across in your travels to Japan. We might even just add it to the list!

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Japanese Phrases for Tourists: 116 Essential Phrases for Your Japanese Vacation

Before I traveled to Japan for the first time, everyone assured me that “Everybody speaks English there,” and I wouldn’t need to use Japanese at all.

But in reality, most of the people I encountered in Japan had a fairly elementary level of spoken English .

For a better travel experience, you should learn some basic travel words and phrases in Japanese.

Greetings and Basic Japanese Phrases

Airport phrases you’ll hear, airport phrases you’ll use, asking for directions, receiving directions, transportation phrases, hotel phrases, eating and drinking in japan: what you’ll hear, eating and drinking in japan: what you’ll say, shopping in japan: phrases you’ll hear, shopping phrases you’ll use, number of items in japanese, tips to use your new phrases: politeness and pronunciation, how to study these japanese travel phrases.

Download: This blog post is available as a convenient and portable PDF that you can take anywhere. Click here to get a copy. (Download)

I’ll provide the hiragana, kanji and romaji for each word, and will explain the use of certain Japanese phrases for tourists in context.

1. Hello — konnichiwa

2. good morning — ohayou gozaimasu, 3. nice to meet you — hajimemashite, 4. goodbye — sayounara, 5. please — onegaishimasu, 6. thank yo u — arigatou gozaimasu, 7. you’re welcome — dou itashimashite, 8. excuse me/sorry — sumimasen.

This is definitely one to memorize. I say すみません at least 30 times a day in Japan. It’s a magical word.

It helps you push through a crowd, get attention from a waiter, ask for directions or be excused for basically any touristy blunder.

Simply saying すみません and gesturing is a pretty good way to express that you need help, but don’t speak Japanese.

9. Yes — hai

10. no — iie, 11. let’s eat/ “bon appetit” — itadakimasu .

Similar to the French “ bon appetit” , this is what Japanese people say before they eat. It doesn’t have a literal translation in English, but it’s a way to give thanks for a meal .

You should also remember this phrase’s pair: ごちそうさま (gochisousama) or ごちそうさまでした (gochisousama deshita). These phrases are used at the end of a meal and translate as “What a good meal,” or “Thank you for the meal,” the latter being the more polite form.

12. I don’t understand — wakarimasen 

13. i don’t speak japanese —   nihongo o hanashimasen, 14. do you speak english — eigo o hanashimasu ka , 15. can you please repeat that — mou ichido itte kudasai, 16. can you please speak slowly — yukkuri hanashite kudasai, 17. what is your name — onamae wa nan desu ka, 18. my name is… — watashi no namae wa…, 19. what is this — kore wa nan desu ka.

これ and それ literally just mean “this” and “that.”

20. How much does this cost? — kore wa ikura desu ka? 

If you’re pointing at something that you can’t reach, you say それは いくらですか？

21. Can you please help me? — tasukete moraemasuka ?

Japanese airports aren’t just places to land: they’re an entire cultural showcase on their own. For example, at the Narita Airport , you’ll see pet hotels , gacha machines , the (in)famous smart toilets and even a Pokémon Store !

22. Welcome, please come in — yokoso, o-hairi kudasai

23. please show your ticket — chiketto o misete kudasai, 24. please show your passport — pasupooto o misete kudasai, 25. what is your reservation name — yoyaku-mei wa nan desu ka, 26. the flight is delayed — furaito chien shiteimasu, 27. the flight has been canceled — furaito kyanseru saremashita, 28. baggage claim is this way — baggeji kureimu wa kochira desu, 29. we have arrived at … airport — … kuko ni tochaku shimashita, 30. we will depart for … airport — … kuko e shuppatsu shimasu, 31. there is a delay in the flight — furaito ni okure ga arimasu, 32. there are restrictions on carry-on baggage — kinai mochikomi no nimotsu niwa seigen ga arimasu.

33. Please tell me how to get to the airport — kuko e no ikikata o oshiete kudasai

34. is this a departure flight — korewa shuppatsu-bin desu ka, 35. is this an arrival flight — korewa tochaku-bin desu ka, 36. where is the boarding gate — tojyo-guchi wa doko desu ka, 37. i’ll check my baggage — tenimotsu azukemasu, 38. please call a taxi — takushii o yonde kudasai, 39. i’d like to rent a car — rentakaa o karitai desu, 40. where is the gate for the connecting flight — noritsugi-bin no geeto wa doko desu ka.

Asking for directions is sort of daunting, especially when the person answers in a whole stream of fast-paced Japanese.

But you’ll find that Japan is one of the best places to be a lost and hopeless tourist. There’s always someone nearby who’s more than happy to help. I’ve even had people take time out of their days to walk me where I needed to go!

Simply say wherever it is that you want to go followed by どこですか？ — doko desu ka? (Where is …?).

41. I want to go… (here) — (koko) ni ikitai desu 

Say ここ if you have an address written down or a point marked on a map of where you want to go.

If you know the name or address of the place where you want to go, simply say the place name followed by に行きたいです . For example, if you want to go to Shinjuku station, you simply say 新宿駅に行きたいです   — Shinjuku eki ni ikitai desu . (I want to go to Shinjuku station.)

42. Where is the…? — …wa doko desu ka?

43. can you please show me where we are on the map — watashitachi ga doko ni iru no ka, chizu de oshiete kudasai.

This might seem like an odd question (and a bit of a mouthful), but it can be a lot more helpful than asking for directions from someone who doesn’t know English.

44. Is it near? — chikai desu ka?

45. is it far — tooi desu ka.

46. Go straight ahead — massugu itte kudasai 

47. turn left — hidari ni magatte kudasai, 48. turn right — migi ni magatte kudasai.

In Japan, public transportation is how most people get around. If you’re not used to taking the bus, train or anything similar, better keep the following phrases handy!

49. Take me to this address, please — kono jyusho made tsureteitte kudasai

50. what is the fare — ryoukin wa ikura desu ka, 51. stop here, please — koko de tomatte kudasai, 52. does this bus go to (street name) — kono basu wa … ni ikimasu ka, 53. does that train stop at … — sono denshya wa … de tomarimasu ka, 54. a map, please — chizu o onegai shimasu, 55. this hotel — k ono hoteru, 56. the subway — chikatetsu , 57. the train station — denshya no eki, 58. the bus stop  — basutei, 59. the taxi stand — takushii noriba, 60. the exit — deguchi, 61. the entrance — iriguchi, 62. the bathroom — toire.

Like other service-oriented businesses in the country, Japanese hotels subscribe to the concept of omotenashi , which roughly translates to pouring your whole heart into service. That means you can expect employees at Japanese hotels to go above and beyond when it comes to making you feel welcome.

63. I have a reservation under the name of … — … no yoyaku o shiteimasu

64. i would like to check-in — chekkuin shitai desu, 65. what time is check-in — chekkuin wa nanji desu ka, 66. is breakfast included — choshoku wa fukumareteimasu ka, 67. where is my room — watashi no heya wa doko desu ka, 68. please give me a wake-up call at …  — … ni weikuappu kooru onegaishimasu., 69. where is the nearest convenience store — ichiban chikai konbini wa doko desu ka, 70. can you recommend a good restaurant nearby — chikaku no oishii resutoran o shokaishite moraemasu  ka, 71. what time is check-out — chekkuauto no jikan wa nanji desu ka, 72. where can i store my luggage — nimotsu wa dokoni azukeraremasu ka, 73. is there wi-fi in the hotel — hoteru ni wa wai-fai ga arimasu ka, 74. where is the nearest atm — ichi-ban chikai atm wa doko desu ka, 75. i’d like to have some extra towels, please — yobun no taoru o kudasai., 76. what time is breakfast served — choshoku wa nanji kara desu ka, 77. excuse me, i need an iron and ironing board — sumimasen, airon to iron-dai ga hitsuyo desu..

Like Japanese hotels, Japanese restaurants also practice omotenashi. Here are some of the more common phrases you’ll hear from Japanese restaurant staff.

78. Welcome — Irasshaimase

79. how many people in your party — nan mei sama desu ka, 80. this way, please — kochira e douzo, 81. certainly (in response to your order) — kashikomarimashita, 82. thank you for waiting — omatase itashimashita.

The best restaurants in Japan are the authentic ones that don’t cater to tourists. But these are also the places that have no English menus, and sometimes no English-speaking waitstaff.

Luckily, it’s very common for Japanese menus to feature photos of all the dishes. And many places have models of their dishes on display, so you likely won’t be going in completely blind.

Use these phrases , and you should be in and out of a restaurant without too many hiccups.

83. A table for two, please —  futari you no teeburu o onegai shimasu

You can also replace futari with the number of people who you need to have seated:

• one — hitori ( 一人 )
• three — sannin ( 三人 )
• four — yonin ( 四人 )

If you’re confused about Japanese numbers and counters, don’t despair. You can just do as the locals do and indicate the number of diners by holding up your fingers.

84. The menu, please — menyu o onegai shimasu

85. what are today’s recommendations — kyo no osusume wa.

If everything on the menu looks appetizing and you’re not quite sure what to order, use this phrase.

86. Water, please — mizu o onegai shimasu

87. two beers, please — biiru o nihai onegai shimasu, 88. can i please have (one, two) of this — kore o (hitotsu, futatsu) onegai でdekimasu, 89. do you have a vegetarian dish — bejitarian youno ryouri ga arimasu ka.

I’ve traveled in Japan with vegetarians twice, and this question usually draws quite strange looks. Vegetarianism basically doesn’t exist in Japan, although Japanese cuisine is generally quite vegetarian-friendly.

It might work better to say これは肉ですか？ — kore wa niku desu ka? , to say “is this meat?” Follow up with 私は肉を食べません — watashi wa niku o tabemasen,  which means “I don’t eat meat,” if you want to make yourself understood.

90. Is … in it? — … wa haitte imasu ka?

Alternatively, you can also ask if specific ingredients are included in your food, so you’ll know whether you should order it or not.

91. That’s okay — daijyoubu desu

You can also use this expression to ask someone if they’re okay. Just add the question particle  ka to the end: 大丈夫ですか ？ — daijyoubu desu ka? 

92. The check, please — okanjyou o onegai shimasu 

Say the above, or you can do as the locals do and catch the waiter’s eye (with a smile!) and draw a clockwise circle in the air with your index finger pointing towards the roof.

In some restaurants, you need to bring the check to the cash register which is usually located by the restaurant’s doorway.

93. Cheers! — kanpai!

94. it was delicious — oishikatta desu, 95. water — mizu, 96. wine — wain, 97. beer — biiru , 98. tea — ochya, 99. coffee — coohii, 100. juice — juusu, 101. meat — niku, 102. chicken — toriniku , 103. pork — butaniku, 104. beef  — gyuniku , 105. fish — sakana , 106. rice — gohan, 107. bread — pan , 108. vegetables — yasai  , 109. fruit — kudamono.

When you’re met with cries of いらっしゃいませ！, you’re not really expected to respond to this greeting. As for me, I just smile and say こんにちは which means, of course, “hello.”

Walking into a department store is particularly surreal, with each assistant taking cues from the others, so that every time a customer walks in, いらっしゃいませ bounces around the entire floor.

110. Are you looking for something? — nani ka osagashi desu ka?

111. is that all — ijyou de yoroshii desu ka, 112. here it is / here you go — hai, douzo.

113. I would like this — kore o onegai shimasu

114. i would like one of those — sore o hitotsu onegai shimasu, 115. i would like to pay in cash  — genkin de onegai shimasu, 116. i would like to pay by credit card — kurejitto kaado de onegai shimasu.

The only real challenge with ordering meals in Japanese is the use of counters.

We have counters in English, too (for example “sheets” of paper, “glasses” of water, “blades” of grass), but not as many or as complicated as in Japanese.

Luckily Japanese has a “universal” counter, つ ( tsu ), which you can use for anything, including food.

The numbers one to four as つ counters are pronounced 一つ ( hitotsu )、 二つ ( futatsu )、 三つ ( mittsu ) and 四つ ( yottsu ). You can use this counter for drinks too, and the waiter will understand you.

However, if you want to be a little more impressive, you can use the drinks counter: 杯 ( hai/bai/pai depending on the number used with it). The numbers one to four using this counter are 一杯 ( ippai )、 二杯 ( nihai ) 、 三杯 ( sanbai ) and 四杯 ( yonhai ).

If you want to learn more about counters, this post explains them  in more detail.

All the examples I’ve given are in the polite, neutral form of speech . You basically can’t go wrong speaking this way in Japan, so you don’t need to worry about making any social faux pas!

Some notes on pronunciation:

• Avoid turning vowels into dipthongs (vowel sounds that run into each other, like the oi in “coin”). Pronounce each vowel on its own even when there are two vowels next to each other. Onegai is read as “o-ne-ga-i,” not “o-ne-gai”
• The sound  ou and repeated vowels like ii and  ee are exceptions: they show an elongation of the sound.  Ohayou is read as “o-ha-yoh,” not “o-ha-yo-u.”
• Treat ん (n)  as its own syllable.   Konnichiwa is read “ko-n-ni-chi-wa,” not “ko-ni-chi-wa.” It’s subtle, but it makes a difference!
• Repeated consonants are pronounced. For an example of how to do this, just read the word “bookkeeper” out loud.
• The small kana っ like in いって signify a break between the sounds —”it-te,” not “i-te.”
• Small y- kana like ゃ in おちゃ add the  y sound to the preceding syllable —”o-chya,” not “o-chi-a.”
• は (ha)  as a particle is pronounced wa,  and を (wo)  as a particle is pronounced  o.

The beauty of Japanese is that it’s an extremely phonetic language, so if you say the words exactly as you read them, you can’t really get them wrong.

Having said that, people will probably struggle to understand you if you speak in a strong non-Japanese accent, so it might pay to listen to some spoken Japanese before you start practicing pronunciation.

The most important thing to remember is that, unlike English speakers, Japanese speakers don’t put emphasis on the second or third syllable of a word—there’s some emphasis on the first syllable, but it’s subtle.

Some ways that you can listen to Japanese being spoken is by watching Japanese films , television programs , anime or YouTube clips .

The Japanese language program FluentU has a little bit of everything in the media, with interactive subtitles and customizable flashcards for a well-rounded learning experience.

Maybe this seems like a lot, but learning Japanese travel phrases for tourists will make your trip run more smoothly, and the people you meet will appreciate your effort.

Speaking the local language tends to get people on your side. They’re less likely to try to rip you off, and often will want to become your best friend.

I like to make little phrasebooks for myself when I travel, so I can have these Japanese travel phrases and vocabulary always on hand.

I’ve been treated to tea and dinner in people’s homes, and once was driven around a city with a personal guide/impromptu friend all day, just because I struck up conversations in the local language.

Don’t be scared! Give it a try!

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17 Funny Japanese Words and Phrases to Make You Laugh

Feeling like your Japanese learning is getting a little ho-hum?

Let’s take a break from all the grammar and daily vocabulary. The best part of learning a new language is the funny words!

Some of these Japanese words and phrases have a funny sound, or mean something funny when translated into English. There are a few that aren’t just funny, but are also helpful when used in appropriate situations!

You might encounter some of these funny Japanese words on the internet as slang , in YouTube videos , or anime . Let’s get to the LOLs!

JapanesePod101 is our top recommendation to learn Japanese online. We love the fun, current audio lessons and interactive online tools. Sign up for your free lifetime account and see for yourself!

Extra stomach

We all have that friend who has such a large appetite, they might as well have betsubara (別腹 / べつばら)! The kanji for this funny Japanese word is composed of the characters for ‘extra’ (別) and ‘stomach’ (腹).

These kinds of people usually have room for dessert even though they just had a full meal beforehand. Impressive!

Barcode men

Now this sounds like an old-school boy group, but bākōdō jin (バーコード人 / バーコードじん) actually refers to balding men with weird comb-overs. They’re so badly done that they resemble a barcode, hence the term ‘barcode men’.

Horizontal meal

Yes… well, kind of. Yoko meshi (横飯 / よこめし) literally translates to ‘horizontal meal’, but it’s a word that describes Western food! Think hamburgers and sandwiches, which are very popular choices in American fast food chains. It has also come to have some other meanings, including eating with foreigners, and talking in a foreign language while eating.

Kuchi sabishii

Lonely mouth

Now this is something we can all relate to. Kuchi sabishii (口寂しい / くちさびしい) means you’re eating not because you’re hungry, but rather because your mouth is lonely! It makes perfect sense when you think of it as craving for a certain food.

The literal translation of neko baba (猫糞 / ねこばば) is ‘cat feces’. Much like how cats bury their poop in the dirt or litter, neko baba is used when one does something bad and tries to hide it. For example, stealing.

Neko baba can be used in a joking or lighthearted way, as well! Like when your sister fools you by sneaking a couple of chips from your snacks.

Parasaito shinguru

An adult who lives with their parents

A ‘parasite single’ or written in katakana as parasaito shinguru (パラサイトシングル) refers to a full-fledged adult earning enough to live on their own, but still chooses to live rent-free with their parents. 

Usually, these are people in their thirties and above. Their lifestyle is akin to that of parasites who live off of their hosts. 

What’s recognized as the ‘canthus’ in English is called ‘eye butt’ when literally translated from Japanese. Me (目 / め) means ‘eye’ while shiri (尻 / しり) means ‘butt’. The canthus or ‘eye butt’ is the outer corner of the eye.

The opposite, or inner corner is called megashira (目頭 / めがしら) or ‘eye head’. It’s like the eye is a whole different body!

The word hanakuso (鼻くそ / はなくそ) literally means ‘nose sh*t’, and that’s pretty much what boogers are like. Another similar, funny word that refers to snot or mucus is hanamizu (鼻水 / はなみず) which means – you guessed it, ‘nose water’. Perhaps this ‘gross’ vocabulary can come in handy when you’re down with a cold?

Drink responsibly, or else you will get a hangover! The Japanese word for this is futsukayoi (二日酔い / ふつかよい), and when translated literally, it means ‘drunk for two days’! This accurately describes the feeling of a hangover, right?

Kan kan gaku gaku

Having a heated debate

When you hear two people debating passionately about something, their speech sounds very strong. To our ears, it can sound like kan kan gaku gaku (侃侃諤諤 / かんかんがくがく)! This four-character compound refers to outspoken people, or those having a heated discussion.

The character kan (侃 / かん) means ‘strong’ while gaku (諤 / がく) means ‘speaking the truth’.

Hen tai kyaku shutsu

Changing one’s appearance very often

Another four-character compound that sounds funny in translation is hen tai kyaku shutsu (変態百出 / へんたいきゃくしゅつ). It refers to a person who looks different every time you see them. They might dress a certain way today and look like a complete stranger tomorrow! You’d wonder if they were a magician or just own an impressive wardrobe.

When roughly translated word for word, it means ‘changing one’s appearance one hundred times’. Hen tai (変態 / へんたい) means ‘transformation’ or ‘metamorphosis’ and kyaku shutsu (百出 / きゃくしゅつ) means ‘arise in great numbers’. 

Aka no tanin

Red stranger

Aka no tanin (赤の他人 / あかのたにん) translates to ‘red stranger’. It means someone who is a complete stranger to you, with absolutely no connections to your life. 

The color red is typically associated with danger, for example, when encountering a person you totally don’t know in a sketchy situation.

Me no naka ni iretemo itakunai

目の中に入れても痛くない

It won’t hurt to put him/her/it in my eye

Have you ever found someone or something so cute , that you’d want to put them in your eye? But that will hurt! The phrase me no naka ni iretemo itakunai (目の中に入れても痛くない / めのなかにいれてもいたくない) is never taken literally, but it is said to show how much you adore someone’s cuteness. 

For example, this can be used when meeting your infant niece or nephew and they are the cutest sight to behold. Or going to a dog cafe to interact with adorable pups !

Mimi ni tako ga dekiru

I’m growing calluses in my ear

Someone’s constant nagging can get so tiring, it feels like grating in your ears. Mimi ni tako ga dekiru (耳に胼胝ができる / みみにたこができる) means ‘I’m growing calluses in my ear!’. This is used when you are tired of hearing the same words over and over again.

Jigoku ni hotoke

Buddha in hell

The phrase jigoku ni hotoke (地獄に仏 / じごくにほとけ) is translated as ‘Buddha in hell’. It refers to someone who can help you during the most difficult times. 

There is a significant amount of Buddhists in Japan. Famous writer Ryuunosuke Akutagawa’s short story ‘The Spider’s Thread’ ( Kumo no Ito ) tells the story of a man named Kandata, who is trying to escape hell. Buddha sees him and recalls how he saved a spider’s life once, and decides to give him a chance at redemption by letting down a spider’s thread to pull him up.

Disorganized

A lot of onomatopoeia sounds pretty funny. Barabara (バラバラ) is a word for disorganized, chaotic, and scattered things or scenarios. For example, crowds at a festival can be described as barabara . It’s also the sound of raindrops hitting a surface.

Yes, just w . It is the same as ‘LOL’ in English. One visit to the Japanese side of social media, and you’re likely to find a lot of w’s!

This Japanese internet slang comes from the word warai (笑い / わらい), which means ‘laugh’. Some just shorten it to wara (笑 / わら) instead. Another funny thing is that people type kusa (草 / くさ), the kanji for ‘grass’ to say ‘hahaha’. Why? Because a series of w’s look like grass: wwwww

Know any more funny Japanese words and phrases?

There’s no shortage of funny words and phrases in Japanese, so we’d love to hear more! Share your favourites in the comments 🙂

Has this article inspired you to start learning Japanese? You can find free online Japanese lessons here and you can download a free Japanese writing workbook here .

Thea Ongchua

Thea is a freelance content writer, currently majoring in Japanese studies. She likes to create art and draws inspiration from film and music. Thea was inspired to study Japanese language and culture by reading the literary works of Haruki Murakami and Edogawa Ranpo.

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