Japanese Culture >> Travel Review

Top 10 Things to Do in Japan

Japan is one of the countries that have the best of both worlds. It's advanced in terms of technology, and yet, it has been able to retain its greatest heritage - its culture. Indeed, Japan has done an amazing feat as it can manage to stay as one of the world's leading economic powers while still being able to hold on to the roots of its past. And, as such, it has become one of the most interesting places to visit - a rich blend of history and technology.

1.) Watch the cherry blossoms fall

There's no symbol of Japan more famous than the beautiful Cherry Blossoms. Indeed, the cherry blossom, with beauty so intense but so fleeting, is something that you have got to see if you ever visit Japan. They bloom during the months of April and May, and by the end of these months, they fall to the ground like a dreamy curtain of pink and white. There's no other sight quite like it.

2.) Release your inner child

Japan is one of the few countries in the world with its own Disney Land. And, of course, because the Japanese are sticklers for culture, their Disney Land is built with a distinctly Japanese influence. It sets it apart from all other such theme parks in the world.

3.) Indulge the shopaholic in you

Tokyo is one of the world's biggest shopping capitals. Ginza is a huge market where you can find anything you need, from the latest gadgets and gizmos to the latest manga release of your favorite anime series. In the morning, you can even see it transformed into the world's largest fish market. Indeed, Ginza is one place that you'd be sorry to miss.

4.) Sip some tea

Essentially, the Japanese are people who prefer everything to be clean and serene, that's why they love such peaceful activities as drinking, or rather, sipping tea. While you're in Japan, you should at least experience authentic Japanese tea. Or better yet, you can participate in the Japanese Tea Ceremony, a festival held both in Kyoto and Tokyo.

5.) Play in the snow

In some parts of the year, particularly in winter, Japan gets coated in a blanket of pristine white snow. During this time of the year, it would do you well to have some fun in Japan's steep ski slopes. You can even partake in the Snow Festival where ice parties take place for a whole seven days and where you can see beautiful ice sculptures.

6.) Relax in the hot springs

And, if your muscles need to loosen up a bit, why don't you give yourself a treat by visiting one of the many hot springs. These can be found in most parts of Japan, especially in Okinawa. The relaxing steam is sure to make you feel like you've shed a very heavy load.

7.) Become a samurai

Japan is quite famous for its noble Samurai who follow the Bushido code, and the swords or their 'katana,' though light and flexible, are sharp and deadly. You can buy your own katana for your collection's sake, but mind you, a lot of effort and time are put into these swords, so they won't be cheap. Some sellers are even picky as to who they're going to sell their swords to - that's how special these deadly weapons are.

8.) Watch giants clash

A sport like no other, sumo wrestling is one of the most interesting things that you will see in Japan. Sumo Wrestling is Japan's national sport, and it draws large crowds from all over. You can even place your bets to make watching it more exciting.

9.) Do some sightseeing

There are tons of things to see in Japan. It is, after all, rich in architecture and landscapes. You can take pictures of the famous Imperial Palace if you're into architecture or the famous Mt. Fuji if you're into nature.

10.) Bask in the Nightlife

And, of course, what better way to end the day than to experience Tokyo's nightlife. There's no other place in the world where 'glow-in-the-dark' is a fashion statement. Indeed, a great place to let loose and just be yourself.

About the Author

Jonathan Williams is the travel writer for Destination Guide TV - the place to share travel videos. Visit http://www.destinationguide.tv/japan to view or share Japan travel videos.