Top Things to Do & Places to Visit in Japan | What is Japan Famous for? (2024)

Japan is famous for its 6,852 islands, which were earlier attached to the eastern coast of Asia, but due to tectonic movement, which happened around 15 million years ago, it split off what is now the Sea of Japan.

It is the country that is the hub of animated television shows and movies. The animation industry contributes to 60% of world animation entertainment. The kimono is a traditional Japanese garment that both men and women wear.

Samurai are an essential part of Japanese culture and tradition. Furthermore, Japan is famous for its seafood market, which is the world's largest market with over 60,000 employees.

Japanese people are known all across the globe because of their long life. Around 29% of the Japanese population is over 65 years old. It houses 85,000 people who are above 100 years of age.

Besides this, it is the country that has more punctual trains, the average delay is 18 seconds. There is tough competition between rail companies in Japan. Another interesting thing about Japan is people here don't have a signature; they have their seal which is called Hanko.

It is the seal of their name; adults usually have 3 seals: personal seal, identity seal and bank seal.

For backpackers, Japan is a country full of surprises because of its rich cultural history and natural attractions. Below are some of the best places to visit in Japan.

Tokyo- The very first must-see place on the list is Tokyo, which is also the capital of Japan. It is called the essence of Japan because of its world-class attractions like Tokyo Disneyland, skytree and more and its animation culture. It is a city that is the industrial, political and cultural centre of Japan. Tourists from all across the world come here to witness the Meiji Shrine.

Kyoto- Another best tourist place in Japan is Kyoto, which is awarded as the city of shrines. It used to be the capital city of Japan. This sacred place houses palaces, gardens, temples, bamboo forests and more. It is a city with around 4000 historical sites. One of the best things to do in Kyoto is visit Nijo Castle.

Hiroshima- It is the most visited city in Japan. Despite being the victim of atomic bombings, Hiroshima is the place that adds value to Japan's beauty. The place has historical significance and attractions like Hiroshima Castle, Peace Memorial Park, Itsukushima Shrine and more.

Takayama- Another best tourist place in Japan, which is considered an old-world charm. It is the perfect destination spot for tourists who want to get away from the city's hustle and bustle. The place is nestled high in Gifu mountain. Furthermore, the Takayama Festival is another thing which invites tourists in large numbers.

Shibuya-Lastly, Shibuya is a popular place in Japan, which is known to be a bustling city with 2.8 million people on an ordinary weekday. It is the best place for shopping since the city has 109 popular shopping malls in close proximity to the train station. Takesh*ta Street is the most visited shopping location. Tourists also come here to enjoy the vibrant nightlife at Roppongi.

Undoubtedly, Japan is a country that is blending well with old traditions and cutting-edge technology. The tiny Asian country has a rich history that dates back to thousands of years ago. And now it is the most advanced industrialised country. Japan boasts a list of landmarks or attraction sites, some of which are listed below:

Mount Fuji- It is not only the most recognised landmark of the country but also the highest mountain peak. Mount Fuji is listed as an essential icon by UNESCO because of its 3,776 metres towering over a flat landscape. Every summer, millions of people climb Mount Fuji in Japan as an act of pilgrimage. Tourists also come here to watch the sunrise from this summit.

Osaka Castle- Another famous landmark of Japan is Osaka Castle, which was built in 1586 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi. However, the earlier structure was destroyed many times. The current structure of the castle was built in 1931. The castle consists of a 5-story and 42-metre main tower. Inside the castle, tourists will find interesting facts about the history of the castle.

Atsuta Shrine- Atsuta shrine is the crucial Shinto shrine in Japan situated at the heart of Nagoya city. The shrine was established in the first century and, to date, preserved as a religious site. Every year millions of visitors come to this site from all around the world. The place houses numerous works of art, paintings, traditional masks and more. Besides this, tourists also visit Nagoya Castle, which is known for its two gilded dolphins.

Churaumi Aquarium- Another popular place in Japan is Okinawa's Churaumi Aquarium, which is popular because of its Kuroshio Tank. This tank holds around 60 different species, including sea turtles, whales, sharks and gliding manta rays. The aquarium also has a dedicated area for bull and tiger sharks.

Matsumoto Castle- Japan is home to beautiful and historical castles but no one can match the Matsumoto Castle beauty. It is a castle situated in Nagano city. The castle was built between 1592 to 1614. It is the only 6 story castle in Japan that is still preserved. The castle has preserved the wooden interiors and historic memoirs, and that's why it is the national treasure of Japan.

When it comes to Japan's famous food, tourists will be spoiled with options. Japanese cuisine is famous all over the world for its delectable taste. Some of the best Japanese dishes are listed below that are worth giving a try.

Sushi- The very first Japan famous food is Sushi which is a significant member of its cuisine. Sushi in Japan is not considered only food; it is referred to as an art form. The dish was invented to preserve raw fish by storing it in fermented rice. It is a dish made from a variety of ingredients, such as seafood, fish, etc, with vinegared sushi rice. It is commonly eaten with wasabi, pickled ginger, etc.

Sashimi- Another dish Japan is known for is Sashimi, which is thinly sliced seafood or raw fish or different types of meat. It is basically a fish without the vinegared rice. People in Japan generally eat it with soy sauce and wasabi. Chicken sashimi is famous in Japan and is prepared from a special kind of "blue foot" chicken.

Tempura- Another thing Japan is known for is Tempura which is the traditional cooking method which involves deep frying the vegetables or seafood coated in batter. The batter is made from soft cake flour and cold water. Cold water is mixed to give the dish a fluffy and crisp texture. The dish is generally served with dipping sauce and grated radish. Most people also sprinkle sea salt on the dish.

Yakitori- Yakitori, also known as Kushiyaki, is a popular Japanese bar food. It is basically the skewers of grilled meat. It is the best food that generally goes with beer in Japan. In this dish, different types of vegetables and meat are skewered on metal or bamboo sticks after grilling or seasoned with sauce.

Miso Soup- Miso soup is another famous thing in Japan, which is their traditional food staple. This traditional dish is prepared from a number of ingredients such as seafood, tofu, miso paste, dashi, vegetables and more. The dish is generally preferred after a Japanese meal. Due to various healthy ingredients, it is awarded as health food in Japan.

Mochi- Last on the list of Japan's famous food is Mochi, which is a traditional Japanese dessert or sweet. It is basically a rice cake prepared from short-grain rice and mochigome. It is a sweet that is enjoyed in Japan all year round. The pink version of Mochi, which is called Sakura Mochi, is popular during the spring season. It is a special dish prepared from the sweet paste of red beans, which is wrapped in cherry blossom leaves.

If you are in Japan and not taking souvenirs home then the trip would feel incomplete. Here is a list of famous things in Japan to buy.

Japanese Fan- Japanese fans are the traditional items widely popular. There are different types of fans, such as Sensu, which is the folding fan, or Uchiwa, a large round fan. The fan is very affordable and available in department stores in Japan.

Matcha Kit- Another famous thing in Japan to buy is the Matcha kit, which is powdered green tea. This tea has various health benefits. The kit has all the essential elements to prepare matcha tea. It included a bamboo whisk, tea scoop and ceramic bowl.

Japanese Ceramics- Those who want to bring back the Japanese cultural heritage at home should definitely buy Japanese ceramics. There are different types of ceramics available, from vases to plates to tea cups. These are handmade items prepared using traditional techniques.

Tenugui- Tengui is another famous thing in Japan, which is a traditional Japanese cloth. This traditional cloth is available in departmental stores. The cloth is available in a variety of designs and patterns. It is used as wall-hanging material or to wrap gifts.

Japanese Candy- Lastly, Japanese candy is popular all over the world because of its quirky and classic flavours. There is a wide variety of flavours and candy types available, and they are readily available in convenience stores.

There are some tips for travellers to keep in mind while visiting Japan which are:

• It is a year-round destination, but every season here has a unique highlight. So it is best to plan when you want to visit the country.

• It is a cash-preferred country despite being technologically advanced. So, carry plenty of cash while exploring the local markets.

• It is advised to pack smartly and lightly since the public transport here has minimal luggage space.

• Most of the electric outlets in Japan are Type A. That's why it must carry travel adaptors.

• Some of the places in Japan don't even have free Wifi access. So it is best to get a data pack or pocket wifi device.

The country has a tradition of taking off shoes while entering houses, religious places and sometimes even restaurants.

Japan is a country that has no mandatory requirement for having a travel insurance plan while entering the nation. However, the travelling insurance plan serves as a blanket of safety during international trips.

With so much going around, there is always a fear of the worst happening in the back of our heads. The travel insurance plan offers peace of mind with its coverage for medical emergencies, personal liability, loss of luggage and more in foreign nations.

With offering like flight cancellation insurance, policyholders can incur loss due to delay or cancellation of a flight. While choosing travelling insurance, always check your requirements and budget.

Tata AIG is a well-known insurance provider which has an international travel insurance plan that starts at ₹40.84 per day.

What is the most beautiful season in Japan?

The country is known for its spring season, which is symbolised as Sakura or cherry blossom season, which starts mid-March and continues until the beginning of April.

Which is the best month to go to Japan?

The best time to visit the island nation Japan is between March and May and then between September and November since the temperature is dry and warm at this time.

What is popular culture in Japan?

There are plenty of Japanese culture famous all around the world, such as literary traditions, Sumo wrestling, Shrines, Shinto, and more.

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