We're cannot wait to say konnichiWOW again to all the endlessly cool things to do in Japan now that Aussies can finally travel to Japan again!
Days of mouthwatering Japanese cuisine, out-of-the-city day trips to temples and palaces, and immersive cultural experiences are calling, and we can’t wait for you to experience them too!
From classic tours outside the city to iconic amusement parks, we’ve created a list of top experiences not to miss out on during any traveler’s adventure to the Land of the Rising Sun!
1. Enjoy an unobstructed view of Osaka’s skyline at the Harukas 300 Observatory.
To those looking to see Osaka sights from a different perspective, we recommend adding a stop to the top of the Abeno Harukas to your Japan itinerary! Located on the 58th to 60th floor of Osaka’s tallest skyscraper, the Harukas 300 Observatory allows guests to enjoy an awe-inspiring panoramic view of Osaka’s skyline from the building’s 360° glass-enclosed deck.
While taking in the bird’s eye view of the city, you can also indulge in a delicious meal at the Sky Garden 300 restaurant or even breathe in the fresh air at the open-air plaza on the 58th floor. We definitely won’t forget the thrilling feeling of being on top of the world as we circled the deck!
Klook tip: Consider scheduling your visit to Harukas 300 at sunset and see the city shine as its lights brighten up the night sky.
2. Get transported into the world of Lego at Legoland® Japan
Aside from taking the kids to Universal Studios Japan or Tokyo Disneyland, families can also consider spending a whole day enjoying the interactive experiences and fun-filled rides and shows of Legoland Japan. The popular theme park located in Nagoya has over 40 rides, shows, and attractions and over eight different themed areas for you to check out!
What we particularly love about our visit to Legoland Japan was the numerous interactive zones that allow guests to visualize and experience science at work by playing with LEGO! Our creativity was unleashed by the number of things we built during our visit.
Klook tip: Remember to make a stop at the LEGO Factory Tour while in the park and see the story of how the beloved toy is made
3. Experience digitised nature at teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka
A botanical garden by day, and awe-inducing art space by night is what teamLab successfully creates with teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka. The 240,000 sqm outdoor art exhibition space transforms the scenic Nagai Botanical Garden into an experiential art space that transforms once people and nature come together. As you explore the garden, get a close look at over 1,200 species of plants while the digitized art space changes through the influence of wind, rain, birds, and people!
Each teamLab exhibit has something unique to experience, so we definitely recommend checking this out even if you’ve been to teamLab Planets or teamLab Borderless before.
4. Experience Disney magic at Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea
Calling all kids and kids-at-heart, the “Happiest Place on Earth” is waiting for you. Tokyo-bound travellers can't miss out on the excitement of not just one, but the TWO Disney theme parks of Japan at Tokyo Disney Resort! Experience classic Disney magic with the timeless rides and shows of Tokyo Disneyland, like Pirates of the Caribbean or Hyperspace Mountain!
If you’re looking for a twist to your Disney experience head to Tokyo DisneySea for an adventure exploring the mystical myths and legends of the sea. The park is geared more towards older guests with more heart-racing rides like the Raging Spirits and Journey to the Center of Earth!
Klook tip: Plot out two days of your Japan Itinerary to Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea to be able to maximize and fully experience the wonders and attractions of the two amusement parks.
5. See the historical landmarks of Japan at Nikko
A small city located north of Tokyo, Nikko shares the stories of Japan’s rich heritage and culture through the well-preserved temples, shrines, and natural landscapes of the area. The historic destination is famously known for being the location of some of Japan’s World Heritage Sites and national treasures like the Nikko Toshogu Shrine, Nikkosan Rinnoji Temple, and Taiyuin Temple. Travellers looking for a taste of the great outdoors will love exploring Nikko’s natural landscapes like the Kanmangafuchi Abyss which has a scenic walking trail through a gorge.
To get around the area easily, consider getting the NIKKO PASS for convenient and easy travel. With the pass, you’ll be able to get on and off public trains and buses unlimitedly – and even get discounts to select attractions and stores in Asakusa, Nikko, and Kinugawa. What a steal! Unlike most travel passes in Japan, the NIKKO PASS is fully digital, so no queuing is required! Just buy the pass on Klook and begin your journey.
Klook tip: Make a stop at Nikko Toshogu Shrine, and keep your eyes peeled for the carvings of the famed three monkeys in the “see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil” poses!
6. Check out the new Super Nintendo World and Minion Park at Universal Studios Japan
A trip to Osaka isn’t really complete without enjoying the exciting rides and shows of the iconic Universal Studios Japan! The action-packed theme park has leveled up even more with the addition of several new rides and themed areas just waiting for you to experience.
Our favorite new areas? Super Nintendo World and Minion Park, of course! Video gamers are going to love how Super Nintendo World brings to life our favorite game characters, especially Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge! If your kids are big fans of the kooky Minions of Despicable Me, they’ll love the street show Minions Greeting where they can have their photo taken with them.
Klook tip: Check out our handy guide on how to book Universal Studios Japan tickets for an easy ticket-purchasing experience. We recommend getting express passes to minimize waiting time, and enjoy the park to the fullest
7. Take in Mount Fuji in all its glory and beauty with a memorable day tour around the area
One of Japan’s most famous sights, a trip to Mount Fuji is a great idea for both a cultural and historical day away from the city! An adventure to the highest mountain in Japan takes you not only to the famed natural landmark but also to popular attractions like Fuji Hakone, Lake Kawaguchi, and Oshino Hakkai located around the area. The tour is a feast for the eyes with the vibrant colors of the natural landscapes and stunning landmarks of the Japanese countryside you’ll be passing through!
Klook tip: Shopaholics are sure to love the stop at Gotemba Premium Outlets, so make sure that you set aside some spare cash when you head out for the tour!
8. Get a chance to wear an authentic Kimono as you stroll the streets of Asakusa
What better way to really immerse yourself in Japanese culture while touring the city than with a memorable kimono experience? The national dress of Japan is one of the world’s most recognizable traditional costumes, and you now have the chance to try them out on the streets of Asakusa.
We loved the beautiful collection of authentic kimonos and yukata we could choose from and the shop’s skilled experts who helped us dress in them. We were even able to have our hair set with accessories before heading out to explore the area. A must for any cultural day out in Tokyo!
What else can you add to your bucket list?
All set for your trip? If you still haven’t finished building your Japan itinerary, check out our list of new things you can do in Japan!