Top 10 Things to Do Travelling in Japan
Japan is a land of contrasts — a beautiful blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity. Whether it’s serene temples or vibrant city streets, Japan offers unforgettable experiences for every traveller. Here’s our Top 10 list of must-do activities in the Land of the Rising Sun — with a special highlight on our newest cycling adventure.
1. Cycle the Shimanami Kaido
This incredible 70-kilometre cycling route connects Japan’s main island of Honshu to Shikoku via six small islands. With dedicated bike lanes and jaw-dropping views of the Seto Inland Sea, it’s often rated one of the best cycling routes in the world — and a key feature of our Japan Cycling Tour.
2. Soak in a Traditional Onsen
Japan’s natural hot springs are the perfect way to unwind. Whether you choose a luxurious ryokan or a rustic outdoor bath, an onsen experience is deeply relaxing and culturally enriching.
Custom dictates that all bathers must be nude, and whilst male and female onsens are (now) seperated, this is uncomfortable for some.
3. Visit the Peace Memorial Museum in Hiroshima
A moving and educational experience, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum offers powerful insights into the events of 1945 and Japan’s ongoing message of peace and resilience.
Hiroshima is an ideal city to explore by bike. Flat, open spaces, bike lanes and accessible places to visit make for an ideal day tour on a bike.
4. Explore Kyoto’s Temples
Kyoto is home to over 1,600 temples. Don’t miss the iconic Golden Pavilion or the bamboo groves of Arashiyama for a taste of timeless Japan.
Kyoto can get busy, as one of the most popular tourist destinations. When visiting temples or other sites, we recommend arriving as early as possible to avoid crowds.
5. See Mount Fuji
Whether hiking it or simply admiring from afar, seeing Japan’s most iconic mountain is a breathtaking experience.
If you're up for a challnge, cycling up Mount Fuji is possible. Using the well paved Fuji Subaru Line road, which leads all the way up to 5th Station. The route offers amazing views and once at the 5th Station you have an incredible view of Mt Fuji from up close. It's recommended to start early in the day, especially on weekdays, to avoid traffic and crowds.
6. Take a Cooking Class
Cooking classes are a fantastic way to not only learn how to prepare a dish, but the importance and history of food to the culture.
Learn the art of sushi from expert chefs and gain a deeper appreciation for this staple of Japanese cuisine.
Or in Hiroshima you can enjoy a soba noodle making class which is great fun.
7. Stroll Through Nara’s Deer Park
In Japanese tradition, deer—especially the native Sika deer—hold a special place as sacred messengers of the gods within Shinto belief. This symbolism is closely tied to Nara’s Kasuga Shrine, where the deer are said to serve the deity Takemikazuchi. Today, this reverence lives on in Nara Park, where hundreds of deer roam freely and are protected as national treasures, embodying the harmony between nature and spirituality in Japanese culture.
You can feed and mingle with friendly deer roaming freely in this historic park — a magical experience for all ages.
8. Ride the Shinkansen (Bullet Train)
Experience the future of travel with Japan’s high-speed trains — fast, clean, and incredibly efficient.
9. Experience a Japanese Tea Ceremony
Dive into centuries-old rituals with a tea ceremony that embodies harmony, respect, and tranquility. Our cycling tour from Hiroshima includes a traditional tea making ceremony held in an incredible temple.
10. Enjoy a Night in a Ryokan
This really is a must do. Traditional Japanese inns offer a peaceful escape with tatami rooms, futon bedding, and multi-course kaiseki meals. A true Japanese experience.
Looking to combine many of these experiences into one unforgettable trip? Join any of our Cycling Tours in Japan for these and many more incredible experiences in this amazing country.