Want a different kind of adventure for your next travel plans? What better place to visit than the Land of the Rising Sun—a destination that’s a fine blend of culture, nature, and bright city lights? This archipelago may be known for its big cities, such as Tokyo, but there’s no shortage of thrilling outdoor activities in Japan.
Japan is rich with acclaimed ski resorts, beaches, parks, mountains, rivers, and other marvels of nature. If you’re an outdoorsy traveler or an adventure junkie, check out these outdoor activities in Japan that are guaranteed to be a blast:
- Paddle through Lake Shima’s perfectly blue waters
- Race through the streets of Okinawa
- Adventure through Okinawa’s forests on an ATV
- Parasailing from Naha or North of Okinawa
- Give Keirin cycling a shot
- Experience great views from the water (SUP)
- Drift through Ebisu Circuit’s premier race track
- Experience Shiratani Unsuikyo’s haunting aura
- Bike through the mountains of Hachimantai
- Take up a ski or snowboard lesson
- Experience a rickshaw ride through Arashiyama
- Enjoy the winter wonderland of Hokkaido
1. Paddle through Lake Shima’s perfectly blue waters
Head over to the Shima Onsen nearby to relax right after. Credits to Takashi on Adobe Stock
You may have already experienced stand up paddleboarding (SUP) before, but now it’s time to experience it in Japan! After all, there’s no better place to try it than in Lake Shima in Gunma, which is known for its calm and unique cobalt blue waters?
How to get there: Lake Shima is 30 minutes by bus with a 10-minute walk from Nakanojo Station.
2. Race through the streets of Okinawa
Make sure you smile for a pic as you zoom through Okinawa’s streets.
If you have a need for speed, Okinawa street go-karting is one of the most fun things to do in Japan! For an hour or two, you’ll be guided along the city streets, while dressed up as any of your favorite fictional characters with their costume rental! It’s a fun way to explore Okinawa; just make sure you have your Japanese or international driver's license with you.
Address: 7-1 Higashimachi, Naha-shi, Okinawa, Japan
3. Adventure through Okinawa’s forests on an ATV
Take breaks at scenic spots for a photo op!
Want an even bigger thrill? Satiate your need for speed in the mountains of Okinawa! This ATV Adventure is an outdoor activity in Japan that you can't miss! Speed through the lush forest on an ATV ride that even the little ones will enjoy. It’s safe, fast, and scenic—truly a must-try experience while you’re on holiday.
How to get there: Arrive at the meet-up location 20 minutes before your schedule. The location is 30 minutes away from Naha Airport.
Address: 1018 mabuni, Itoman, Okinawa, Japan
4. Parasailing from Naha or North of Okinawa
The views are worth it, we promise!
Parasailing surely deserves a spot on the top 10 things to do in Japan. Board a seaboat and head to the best spots to experience what it’s like to fly, while taking in the views. Get ready to marvel at Okinawa’s stunning coastline and azure waters from 50 meters high on this parasailing flight, which is best experienced with a loved one!
How to get there: Arrive at the meet-up location 10 minutes before your scheduled departure time.
Address: Marine Shop Mermaid, 35-3 Kenken, Motobu, Kunigami District, Okinawa
5. Give Keirin cycling a shot
Try out this race of speed, strategy, and strength. Credits to Mthrmyt on Adobe Stock
Keirin, which literally translates to “racing cycle,” is Japan’s extreme cycling sport you've probably never heard of, but it’s actually been one of the country’s favorite outdoor activities. Immerse yourself in Japanese culture and try putting your foot to the pedals, or even just watching from the stands—it’s sure to be a fun time!
6. Experience great views from the water (SUP)
One of the best outdoor activities for families!
Another unique SUP experience is in Jozankei. It’s a popular day trip spot from Sapporo and this is one of the reasons why. The SUP location has shallow water, which makes it safe even for children. After taking in the nature views from the water, you’ll head over to a farm for some fruit picking! The scenery and fruits change depending on the season, so you’ll be in for a different experience every time:
- June - Strawberries
- July - Cherries
- August - Plums
- September - Prunes
- October - Apples
How to get there: Your Klook booking comes with hotel pick-up and drop-off. Just enter your hotel’s name at the checkout page.
Address: Jozankei, Minami Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
7. Drift through Ebisu Circuit’s premier track
This opportunity to race on a premier racing circuit is every car enthusiast’s dream! Credits to Паша Проценко on Adobe Stock
Ready to live your Fast and Furious dreams? Then drifting is the adventure in Japan for you! Head over to the famous Ebisu Circuit in Fukushima, where you can drift like a pro on a track designed by renowned drift driver Nobushige Kumakubo.
How to get there: From Tokyo, take the Tohoku Shinkansen, then transfer at Koriyama Station to the JR Tohoku bound for Nihonmatsu. Once you arrive, take a 20-minute taxi ride to the circuit.
Address: 1 Sawamatsukura, Nihonmatsu City, Fukushima, Japan
8. Experience Shiratani Unsuikyo’s haunting aura
Hike through the forest of Shiratani Unsuikyo for tranquil vibes and a one-of-a-kind adventure. Credits to Qi on Adobe Stock
An outdoor activity in Japan that you surely won’t forget is hiking through the Shiratani Unsuikyo forest. It’s known to be the inspiration for the popular Studio Ghibli film, “Princess Mononoke.” The location is also believed to be a haunted spirit forest, but just the lush greenery will make the experience feel surreal on its own.
How to get there: Shiratani Unsuikyo is located on Yakushima island, which can be reached via car ferry, high-speed boat, or plane. The forest is 30 minutes by car or bus from Miyanoura Port.
Address: Miyanoura, Yakushima, Kumage District, Kagoshima, Japan
9. Tour through Hachimantai on a bike
Take in a different scenery depending on the season you visit! Credits to TM on Adobe Stock
If you’re looking for a chill destination and thing to do in Japan, then a visit to Hachimantai is a must. It’s far from the cities and has some of Japan’s best hot springs, as well as volcanic landscapes, which makes it the ideal place for some R&R. Enjoy views of Mount Hachimantai as you bike through the city with this beginner-friendly tour that even kids as young as 7-years old can hop on and join!
How to get there: Round-trip transfers are included when you book on Klook
Address: Lodge Clubman, Matsuoyoriki, Hachimantai, Iwate, Japan
10. Take Up a Ski or Snowboard Lesson
Gain a new skill with a view! Credits to keattisak on Adobe Stock
More than the cherry blossom season, Japan is a go-to spot for winter outdoor activities. Receive a private ski or snowboard lesson from professional instructors at Niseko Grand Hirafu, Niseko Annupuri, Rusutsu Resort, or Kiroro Resort. Enjoy Japan’s snow-capped mountains and pristine white snow. Just make sure you pack your snow clothes, boots, gloves, goggles, and beanies to stay warm and comfy!
How to get there:
- Niseko Grand Hirafu
- Take Hakodate Line to Kutchan station, from which you can take a 15-minute taxi ride
- Address: 204 Yamada, Kutchan, Abuta District, Hokkaido, Japan
- Niseko Annupuri
- Board the Hakodate Line to Kutchan station, then take a taxi for about 15 minutes
- Address: Niseko-485, Niseko, Abuta District, Hokkaido, Japan
- Rusutsu Resort
- Reach via car for a 1.5-hour drive from Sapporo
- Address: 13 Izumikawa, Rusutsu, Abuta District, Hokkaido, Japan
- Kiroro Resort
- 1-hour car ride from Sapporo
- Address: Tokiwa, Akaigawa, Yoichi District, Hokkaido, Japan
11. Experience a rickshaw ride through Arashiyama
Tour Arashiyama on a rickshaw
When in Kyoto, you can’t miss out on Arashiyama, especially if you’re looking for the best sightseeing spots. The area is tucked away by the Arashiyama mountains, but tourists love to visit for the temples, shrines, and nature views. This rickshaw ride will take you to the most scenic spots, including Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Nonomiya-jinja Shrine—all you have to do is sit back, relax, and take photos!
How to get there: Arrive at the North side of the Togetsukyo Bridge via the JR Sagano Line from Kyoto Station, or the Keifuku Arashiyama Main Line, and stop at Arashiyama Station.
Address: 37-17 Sagatenryuji Tsukurimichicho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, Japan
12. Explore the winter wonderland of Hokkaido
Spot Hokkaido’s wildlife frolicking through the snow. Credits to Sammy Wong on Unsplash
Take a trip to Kushiro Shitsugen National Park for some winter festivities. The park was designated as a national park to protect the wetland and marsh habitat in the area, but it’s also become home to different wild species, like the red-crowned crane, the huchen, the Siberian salamander, and dragonflies. Prep your warm clothes for some outdoor activities like smelt fishing, snowshoe experience, winter marsh river descent, and a Dutch oven lunch.
How to get there: Your Klook booking includes round-trip transfers from the pick-up location; choose from JR Senmo Line, Toro station, or Kushiro City. Be at the location 10 minutes before your schedule.
Address: Toro Nature Center, 86-17, Kita 7 Sen, Toro, Shibecha-cho, Kawakami, Hokkaido, Japan
Whether it’s summer or winter, there’s always a bunch of fun things to do in Japan, especially for the adventurers. Just make sure you book your tickets ASAP to guarantee your spot!
