Best Tips for Visiting Japan from Someone Who Lived There and Loves It- What to Do, See & Eat

Brooke Amidei
Feb 28
22 min read

Updated: Mar 18

Our family was lucky enough to live as expats in Japan for a year and a half. The best advise we got was from a seasoned expat before we left that said don't wait until you get settled to start traveling because inevitably you will just start to feel comfortable in your new home when it is time to leave. Thank goodness they told us this from their experience. We hit the ground running as soon as we landed in Japan. Discovering new things about our new hometown during the week and hitting the road each weekend to explore more of our new home country. This experience was hands down the best and most interesting thing we've done as a family. We learned so much and so many of our favorite memories took place during our time in Japan.

I get asked a lot about our recommendations when people are headed to visit Japan so I've put them all in one spot. Below are some of our go-tos and please check out the other articles I've written about favorites from specific parts of Japan.

Stay at a Ryokan

A ryokan is a type of traditional Japanese inn that typically features tatami-matted rooms, communal baths and a real cultural experience. We stayed at a handful during our time in Japan and each one was different and wonderful in it's own way. You typically enjoy local cuisine in your room and sleep on futons on the tatami floors (it feels like a grown-up, unique sleepover), and don't worry, they don't sound comfortable, but they are. Ryokans are usually found where there are hot springs and have traditional Japanese public baths (more on that below).

The Onsen- Japanese Public Bath

I'm sure you've heard stories about onsens or seen scenes of one from a movie, but it really is something to experience. Imagine the most blissful hot bath you've ever taken—now level it up with steaming, mineral-rich water straight from the earth, surrounded by stunning Japanese scenery.

Picture this: You’re soaking in a warm, silky pool of water, maybe with cherry blossoms drifting around you or mist rising from the mountains in the background. Your muscles melt, your skin feels amazing, and all your stress just... evaporates. Oh, and the Japanese take their bathing seriously, so there’s a whole ritual—showering before you enter (which was the most confusing part for me- you might find this article to be helpful to prepare), soaking in silence, and just totally embracing the zen vibes.

Below is exactly what I wrote to my friends and family on Facebook after our very first onsen experience:

"We are the cleanest we have ever been, and ever will be again in our lives. In just 24 hours between the 4 of us, we have taken a total of 21 showers and 13 baths. No joke. It was quite an experience going into a Japanese public bath house. At first I thought I was lucky that Thomas had to take both the boys in the men's only bath house, but then I really missed having someone to giggle quietly with me through the process as I became my own episode of Idiot Abroad. So many rituals and etiquette and man we tried hard, but it was so glaringly obvious we were stumbling through the entire process. When I went back this morning I was the only one in the women's bath house so I was lucky enough to steal some pictures of this gorgeous, unique place!"

Embrace the Konbini (Convenience Stores)

7-11, Lawson & FamilyMart

Listen, we’re not talking about sad, fluorescent-lit gas station snacks. No, no, no. 7-Eleven, Family Mart and Lawson in Japan? They are on a whole different level. These places are basically gourmet markets disguised as convenience stores, and once you experience them, you’ll never look at your local 7-Eleven the same way again.

First off, the food is actually delicious. We’re talking fresh sushi, onigiri (our personal favorites- those cute little rice ball triangles with fillings like salmon or tuna mayo), fluffy egg sandwiches (okay, maybe these are our favorites?), and even full-on bento boxes that look like something out of a fancy restaurant. You need a hot meal? They’ve got steaming bowls of ramen, curry rice, and even fried chicken that somehow tastes better than what actual restaurants serve.

And the drinks? You will lose your mind over the endless selection of matcha lattes, fruit smoothies, canned coffees (another fav), and—if you’re feeling sassy—convenience store canned cocktails that are delicious. Try a canned highball- whiskey and soda perfectly mixed and ready to drink!

We must also mention the desserts—fluffy cream-filled pancakes, matcha soft serve, and those little mochi ice cream balls that are just chef’s kiss.

There is also a crazy Japanese vitamin drink section that is in every grocery and convenience store. This isn't just for college kids in need of a Red Bull to pull an all-nighter, I would often see a little old woman get her groceries and chug one down right at the cash register, so I had to find out more. Turns out there is something for everyone and everything! Highlights include the typical energy boost, collagen drinks to ward off those wrinkles, vitamin boosts if your feeling ill, the after workout supplement and our favorite, "liver juice" that will cure your hangover. On our latest trip back to Japan we routinely got some of the jelly filled vitamin packets and squeezed them into our mouths not only because they're delicious, but kept us healthy for all of our travels.

But wait, there’s more! These places aren’t just for food. You can pay bills, buy concert tickets, send packages, grab travel-sized beauty products (hello, face masks for your flight!), and even print documents. It’s like a mini miracle store, open 24/7, always stocked with whatever you didn’t even realize you needed. They were a lifesaver when we were expats in Japan! A one-stop-shop!

Bottom line? Japan’s konbini (convenience stores) will ruin all other convenience stores for you forever, and honestly, you’ll be grateful for it.

Our family's must buys at the convenience stores in no particular order:

Onigiri- Onigiri is basically Japan’s perfect grab-and-go snack—fluffy, lightly salted rice stuffed with delicious fillings like tuna mayo, salmon, or seaweed salad, all wrapped in crispy seaweed—simple, satisfying, and lowkey addictive! 🍙
Egg Salad Sandwich- The Japanese egg salad sandwich (tamago sando) is a fluffy, creamy dream—pillowy milk bread packed with rich, velvety egg salad that’s somehow both light and decadent at the same time, making it dangerously easy to inhale in seconds! I've tried to recreate them at home, but I'm not even close.🥪
Grape Flavored Candy- wtf. What Willie Wonka genius created this? I'm not a big candy girlie and really don't have much of a sweet tooth, but it was so fun to try the different Japanese candies. Nothing knocked our socks off more than the delicious grape flavored jellies. If you know, you know. There is nothing like them!
Crazy Chips- Japanese potato chips are on a whole other level—think wild, mouthwatering flavors you never knew you needed but now can’t live without! You’ve got our family favorites that include Pizza Chips (you guessed it- they somehow perfectly melded the flavors of pizza and potato chip together- perfection) and Nori Seaweed (light, crispy, and just salty enough). Then, things get crazy with flavors like Wasabi Beef (a spicy, umami-packed kick), Takoyaki (grilled octopus ball magic in chip form), and even Uni (Sea Urchin) for when you're feeling extra fancy. Basically, every bag is a flavor adventure—you never know what you'll find, but you know it’s gonna slap. 🥔🔥
Crackers and other Beer Drinking Snacks- think crispy rice crackers glazed in soy sauce or spicy wasabi peas. You don't even have to know what you're grabbing, just make sure you hit up the konbini for a canned cocktail or biru (beer) and some of these snacks before you hop on the Shinkansen bullet train (more on that below).

Walk Through a Daiso

I guess you would describe the Daiso as a dollar store, but really it's a magical treasure hunt of cute, quirky, and practical stuff—all for just 100-300 yen (well, mostly, but still)! You’ll find everything from adorable stationery to kitchen gadgets you never knew you needed, plus a bunch of random goodies that’ll make you say, “Why isn’t this in my life already?” Whether you're grabbing socks with cute animal faces or mini rice cookers, it’s the perfect place to treat yourself without breaking the bank—and leave with way more than you planned.

Souvenir Shop at Tokyu Hands

If Daiso is the equivalent of the Dollar Store, than Tokyu Hands is the equivalent of Target. Every aisle is packed with cool gadgets, home decor, DIY supplies, and random gems. You will have fun perusing the aisles and getting to peek behind the curtain of daily life in Japan. I guarantee you'll find a treasure to take home in this store.

Whether you are at Tokyu Hands or Daiso you MUST get some erasable pens! The Japanese all use them for everyday use and once you start using them, it will be hard to go back. They also make a great gift for people when you get home. They are not expensive there and they have so. many. choices. I would suggest loading up and also grabbing some little bowls or dishware, great chopsticks and other kitchen tools you didn't know you needed.

Visit a Grocery Store

Not kidding this was one of our visitors most favorite activities when they came to Japan. A Japanese grocery store is like a sensory overload in the best way! You’ll find fresh sushi rolls, vibrant produce that looks like it was just picked, and a whole aisle of soy sauce in every flavor imaginable that you likely won't be able to read. There’s yuzu-flavored everything, premium cuts of beef for shabu-shabu, and a fridge full of ready-to-eat bento boxes that’ll have you drooling. Oh, and don’t get me started on the snacks—sweet potato chips, mochi, and matcha-flavored everything—basically, it’s a foodie’s dreamland.

Whether you just walk around taking in how different it would be to live in this country or grabbing the best type of souvenirs such as an at home okinomiyaki kit, or a great sauce that you could put on just about any meat, this is a fun and worthwhile stop!

Let's Talk About Food!

Let's great real- the top reason for coming to Japan is for their amazing food. No one perfects food quite like the Japanese. Below I'm highlighting our must-try favorites.

Okinomiyaki

We are crazy about sushi and ramen, but to be honest, this is the dish we miss most from Japan. We just can't find anything else like it. It's like Japanese comfort food. Okonomiyaki (literally means ‘grilled as you like it’) is a savory version of Japanese pancake, made with flour, eggs, shredded cabbage, meat/seafood and topped with a variety of condiments and a yummy sweet brown okinomiyaki sauce (bring some home in your suitcase- trust me). There are a ridiculous amount of tiny, hole-in-the-wall, delicious mom and pop okinomiyaki restaurants all over Japan and different regions have their own unique twists!

Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki (100% our personal fav) is like a fluffy, layered masterpiece—they stack the ingredients (no mixing) with a layer of noodles and cabbage on the bottom, giving it a satisfying crunch and depth of flavor. Think of it as the fancy version of okonomiyaki. 🍜🍳
Osaka-style okonomiyaki (the original, baby!) is all about mixing everything together—you get a batter, and then you stir in cabbage, pork, and whatever else you want, then cook it up until it’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. It's casual, hearty, and delicious! (It's an easier one to try to recreate at home.)
In Kansai, they sometimes mix cheese into the batter for a gooey, savory twist. 🧀

No matter where you go, okonomiyaki is a local delicacy that is for sure worth trying, even taking a cooking class to learn how to recreate this dish at home, and picking up some of the special ingredients like the okinomiyaki flour and sauce to enjoy after your trip.

Japanese Curry

Not like other curries you've had, Japanese Curry is almost like a stew. A rich, velvety, slightly sweet curry sauce that’s poured over tender meat, crispy cutlets, or vegetables, served with a big mound of steamed rice. It’s hearty, comforting and more mild than an Indian curry, but packed with deep, satisfying flavor, and you’ll find everything from beef to katsu (breaded pork cutlets) smothered in this warm, soul-soothing sauce.

Sushi- Conveyor Belt & Plate Count

This is such a fun experience- it's like a sushi party where you can try a bit of everything! Each restaurant is a little different, but a conveyer belt circles showcasing all of the ready to grab and ready to eat sushi and other bites. We've been to one where a train delivered our order! At some restaurants when you finish they come over and use a little machine that zaps the color coded plates to add up your bill or some you send each plate down a little shoot that would activate a Japanese cartoon and occasionally send out little toys at your table! We all ate as much sashimi as the four of us could and the total was $20 USD.

Japanese Oysters

Japanese oysters are super plump, briny, and packed with a fresh flavor. Whether you eat them raw, grilled, or even in a hot pot, they’re always mouthwateringly good and pair perfectly with a little squeeze of lemon or dipping sauce. The best part? Different regions have their own distinct oyster flavors—in Hiroshima, they’re famous for being larger, meatier, and a little sweeter, while in Miyagi, they’re known for being smaller but with a more delicate, clean taste. It's like a whole oyster tasting tour through Japan! 🦪

Ramen

Japanese ramen is undeniably perfection—steaming hot broth, perfectly slurpable noodles, and a ton of flavor-packed toppings. Whether you like it rich and savory or light and refreshing, there's a ramen for every craving. Each region in Japan has its own style, making it like a flavor adventure!

Tonkotsu ramen is for the rich broth lovers (our personal favorite)—made with slow-cooked pork bones for a super creamy, hearty soup that’s like a little bowl of heaven.
Shoyu ramen (soy sauce-based) is savory and slightly tangy, with a rich, deep flavor that’s perfect if you like that classic ramen taste.
Miso ramen is creamy, hearty, and umami-packed, with a miso-based broth that’s warm and super satisfying.
Shio ramen (salt-based) is light, refreshing, and the perfect balance if you're into something a bit more delicate and clean.

Maybe you'll have to try them all?! Each one with a different topping like my favorite, the seasoned egg. Seems like a good challenge and one we were up for!

At some restaurants you order your food and drink from a vending machine which gives you a ticket to give to your server. It can be incredibly confusing if you don't know the language, but the Japanese are always so helpful. Don't let it intimidate you out of the best meal of your life!

Shabu Shabu

I love Shabu shabu! It's is like the ultimate interactive hot pot experience—you get a big pot of steaming broth, and then you swish thin slices of beef, pork, or vegetables in the broth until they’re perfectly cooked, usually just in a few seconds. 🥢🍲 It’s fun, fresh, and totally customizable because you get to choose what goes in and how long you cook each ingredient. The best part? You dip the cooked ingredients in a rich sesame sauce or soy-based sauce, giving every bite an extra flavor punch. It’s the perfect meal for sharing with friends or family—everyone gathers around, cooks together, and enjoys the warm, cozy vibes.

Sukiyaki

Very similar to Shabu Shabu and both originated in Japan, but their styles and flavors are a little different. Sukiyaki is thin slices of beef, tofu, veggies, and noodles, all simmered together in a sweet and savory broth made with soy sauce, sugar, and mirin, giving it this rich, deep flavor that’s so addictive. You cook everything right at the table, and the best part? After everything’s cooked, you dip it into raw egg (yes, raw egg!) for a silky, creamy finish that takes it to another level.

Sukiyaki dates back to the Edo period (1603–1868) and was initially a way of cooking beef, which was more of a luxury food at the time. It's got that rich, sweet-savory broth that makes it so comforting and indulgent. 🍲
Shabu shabu, on the other hand, is a bit more modern, with its origins in the 1950s in Japan. It’s more focused on swishing thinly sliced meat in hot broth, keeping things light, fresh, and interactive. 🥢

The main difference between sukiyaki and shabu shabu? While shabu shabu is more about swishing ingredients in a light broth and keeping the flavors fresh and clean, sukiyaki is all about simmering in that rich, sweet-savory sauce, making it way more bold and comforting

Yakiniku

Yakiniku is similar to Korean BBQ. A sizzling meat fest where you get to grill your own thinly sliced beef, pork, or chicken on a tabletop grill! You dip the grilled pieces into a savory tare sauce, or sometimes even eat them just as they are, savoring the natural, juicy flavors. It's the perfect interactive meal experience to share, where everyone’s gathered around, cooking their own meats, and munching on side dishes like rice, kimchi, and salads. Perfect with an ice cold Japanese beer!

Tempura

I had a tempura lunch years ago that I still dream about. Japanese tempura is unmatched—think fresh shrimp, fish, or veggies dipped in a light, airy batter and fried to golden perfection. The batter is so delicate that it doesn’t overpower the natural flavors of the ingredients, just enhances them. Plus, it’s served with a tasty dipping sauce to bring it all together. Tempura is a total comfort food in Japan, perfect for everything from a cozy lunch to a more refined dinner, and it’s impossible not to love.

Soba

I'm sad to report I didn't start falling in love with soba until it was time to come back to the U.S. What a tragedy! Soba is thin, buckwheat noodles that are super nutty, earthy, and oh-so-satisfying whether served hot in a rich broth or cold with a soy-based dipping sauce (our favorite way to enjoy them that we still make at home). It’s a versatile dish that’s simple but full of flavor, and you can dress it up with tempura, green onions, or even a boiled egg, depending on your mood. Whether you’re slurping them down on a chilly day or enjoying them in the summertime, soba always feels like the perfect balance of light, healthy, and comforting all at once.

Sushi

You know we weren't going to leave out sushi! Sushi in Japan is always about honoring the quality of the fish and the craftsmanship behind every piece. I was amazed to see that there aren't a lot of fancy rolls like we see in the U.S. and hardly anyone dips their sushi into soy sauce. Sushi in Japan is so fresh down to each ingredient including wasabi and soy sauce. It is plentiful and not that expensive so make sure you over indulge while you are there!

Meat

Japan’s meat game is next-level, and it’s not just about the famous Wagyu and Kobe beef! Wagyu is that rich, buttery, melt-in-your-mouth beef with crazy marbling, and Kobe beef is the most famous variety, known for being so tender it practically dissolves on your tongue. Then there's yakiniku, Japan’s grill-it-yourself BBQ experience we mentioned above, and let’s not forget karaage, Japan’s ultra-crispy, juicy fried chicken, marinated in soy sauce, garlic, and ginger before being fried to golden perfection.

Gyoza

Get to know the Japanese gyoza- thin dumpling wrappers stuffed with a savory mix of ground pork, garlic, ginger, and cabbage, then pan-fried until they’re golden and crispy on one side and soft and chewy on the other. They’re served with a killer dipping sauce made of soy sauce, vinegar, and chili oil, giving every bite the perfect balance of umami, tang, and heat. You should try them at a ramen shop or an izakaya pub and enjoy with an ice cold beer or a high-ball.

Drink Coffee Out of a Machine

It really sucked being a decaf only girl in Japan because good coffee can be found practically on every street corner. Vending machines stocked with an insane variety of hot and cold coffee—from bold black brews to creamy, sweet café au lait as well as hot and cold teas. Don't walk past these machines on the street (plus they aren't venti sized so you can get multiple cans a day and try all the flavors)!

Yuzu

Yuzu is like the citrusy love child of lemon and lime, but with a unique twist—it's tart, fragrant, and just a little bit floral, making it perfect for everything from sauces and salads to sweets and drinks. 🍋 It’s a big deal in Japanese cuisine, adding a zesty, fresh kick to everything from sauces for fish and meats to sorbet, and even cocktails (hello, yuzu cocktails). Basically, it’s the secret ingredient that makes everything a little more refreshing and elevated!

McDonalds

I would never normally suggest this on an international vacation, and I still hesitate to do so, but it's a trip. I think it's because it just takes something so familiar to you and then makes it just different enough that it blows your mind. Also, you will not believe the difference in portion sizes.

What to Drink- Adult Version

Japan is an absolute dream for drink lovers, with so many unique, delicious things to sip on! First, you have to try sake—this iconic rice wine can be served hot, cold, or room temp, and it ranges from light and fruity to rich and bold. Then there’s Japanese beer—brands like Asahi, Sapporo, and Kirin serve up crisp, easy-drinking lagers that pair perfectly with any meal. If you want something stronger, go for shochu, (not a personal fan myself). It's a smooth, versatile spirit distilled from barley, sweet potato, or rice—kind of like sake’s cooler, boozier cousin. And let’s not forget Japanese whisky, which has a rep for being some of the best in the world—smooth, complex, and so sippable. Finally, if you're feeling casual, grab a canned highball (whisky + soda) or a Chu-Hi, a fruity, refreshing, and slightly boozy fizzy drink that’s dangerously easy to drink. Basically, whatever you're in the mood for, Japan’s got the perfect drink for it! Kanpai! 🥂

Travel- Take the Bullet Train!

Japan has public transportation down! The train system is crazy efficient, super clean, and the absolute best way to get around—but it can feel a little overwhelming at first! First things first, grab a Suica or Pasmo IC card (reloadable tap card) to easily pay for trains, buses, and even vending machines without fumbling for change. You can always ask for help to get started.

If you’re traveling long distances, definitely get a Japan Rail Pass for unlimited rides on bullet trains (Shinkansen), which is not only a super efficent way to see the country, but a cultural experience all to itself! Trains are always on time, so be ready to board fast, and remember to stand in line and stay quiet—Japan takes its train etiquette seriously! Also, avoid rush hour (7–9 AM, 5–7 PM) unless you want to be squished like a sardine. Basically, once you get the hang of it, the trains make exploring Japan seamless and stress-free!

Foreigners should reserve a JR rail pass in advance- you still have to go to the office to reserve your seats when you get to Japan. The Japanese don't eat on the go quite like Americans do, but you are allowed to eat on the longer Shinkansen train rides and our favorite part is getting crazy snacks to enjoy while we take in the sights!

The Shinkansen itself is an amazingly smooth ride for going 300km/h (186mph)!

If You Get a Chance...

Every trip and every group is different but I'm highlighting below a few things I would try to do or check out if I was planning a trip to Japan.

Visit During Cherry Blossom Season

Cherry blossom season in Japan is a big freaking deal filled with picnics and parties! It's like a dream—the whole country comes alive with these soft, pink clouds of blossoms that are straight-up magical! 🌸 Everywhere you go, you’re surrounded by trees in full bloom, and people gather for hanami (flower-viewing picnics), sipping drinks, eating snacks, and just soaking in the beauty. It’s a vibe that feels both romantic and peaceful, like nature’s way of reminding us to slow down and enjoy the fleeting moments—because those cherry blossoms? They only last for about a week, making it all feel extra special

It's hard to time, and it will undoubtedly be more busy. Cherry blossom season in Japan typically happens from late March to early April, depending on the region. In Tokyo and Kyoto, you can usually catch them around late March to early April, with the blooms peaking for about a week. If you’re heading to Hokkaido (the northern part), the blossoms might bloom a bit later, usually around mid-April. It’s all about timing, but when you hit it right, it's like a pink paradise! 🌸

Or...Visit During Fall Leaf Season

Fall leaf season in Japan is called "koyo", which translates to "autumn leaves." It’s also an huge deal, with people all over Japan going on koyo hunts to enjoy the stunning foliage, especially in spots like Kyoto, Nikko, and the Japanese Alps. It’s kind of like cherry blossom season but for the autumn color show—a time to soak in the vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows of the changing leaves! 🍂

I heard people refer to it as "momiji" season which is the word that really captures the iconic red maple leaves people flock to see at temples and in the mountains for some seriously scenic leaf-peeping, sipping hot tea while the air is crisp and the leaves are falling. It’s the perfect mix of aesthetic bliss and zen vibes, and whether you’re hiking or strolling through parks, it feels like you're walking through an Instagram filter IRL. Let it be well known though that certain areas of the country are EXTREMLY popular during both cherry blossom and momiji season. Below are some photos from Kyoto during autumn break.

Check Out a Baseball Game

American's favorite past time might actually be Japan's favorite past time! No kidding baseball is HUGE in Japan! It can make it really difficult to get tickets, but if you can pull it off it promises to be the perfect marriage of a game you already love and a culture lesson in the most fun classroom!

Forget the hotdogs- you are literally eating a hot bowl of ramen while you watch the game! The food around the stadium is always one of the best parts of the game- each one of us came back with some new mystery item each time we went to the bathroom. But our favorite is the fun, unique cheers and chants they have for each player complete with sticks that you beat together like drum sticks. All sorts of new traditions to one of our favorite old games. You'll love it!

Warm Your Pipes with some Karaoke!

When in Japan... Yes, this is where karaoke all started and they have it down to an art. You and your friends get your own private room, complete with neon lights, comfy couches, and a touchscreen to queue up endless songs, from J-pop to old-school rock ballads. It can definitely be family freindly as you can see from the photos below and you can order snacks, drinks, and even all-you-can-drink booze while you belt your heart out, making it fun for everyone. Hop in one for an hour or two and let loose!

Take in Some Sumo Wrestling

Is a must because it’s like witnessing living history—a deeply cultural, intense sport that’ll leave you in awe of the athletes’ strength and tradition! We were lucky enough to go to a tournament when we lived in Japan, but had trouble trying to find a way to recreate that experience when we have been back for visits. Give it a google to see if there is a chance you could take in some sumo wrestling on your visit.

Enjoy a Kagura Show Pics

Now I am not big on theater, but we were able to see several Kagura shows during our time in Japan and we loved it every single time. It's like stepping into a mystical Japanese fairy tale where traditional dance meets theatrical drama. The performers wear these amazing costumes, and the music? It’s like haunting, magical tunes played on drums and flutes that totally suck you into the story. There’s dancing, lots of energy, and it’s all about honoring the gods—so it feels super spiritual but also really entertaining. Culture to the max!

Sip Tea at a Cat Cafe

I'm super allergic to cats so I did not enjoy a Cat Cafe myself, but when my niece came for a visit it was top on her list so my husband (the only other one in our family not allergic) got the honor of taking her and experiencing a Cat Cafe. They loved it. It was weird, it was cute and you don't get this experience very often.

Experience a Traditional Tea Ceremony pics

This gives me a little bit of stress about doing everything correctly, but just embrace the fact that you are a visitor and be open to learning and experiencing this cultural tradition. A tea ceremony will give you a chance to slow down from your trip, appreciate the art of mindfulness, and sip on the most delicate matcha in a beautiful, serene setting.

Check Out the Local Festivals

One of our favorites is the Sake Festival in Saijo, the sake capitol of the world, located in Hiroshima Prefecture. It's home to some of Japan’s best sake breweries, and the area has been perfecting its sake-making craft for centuries. Saijo's unique water source, the clean, fresh mountain water, is one of the key ingredients that makes its sake so special. During the Saijo Sake Festival, you'll get to try a wide variety of sake directly from the local breweries, and it’s a huge celebration of Japan's rich sake culture. If you're a sake lover, Saijo is definitely a bucket list destination! Check out what might be happening during the time of your visit- there is something for everyone and every interest and a great way to take in the local scene.

Hit the Japanese Slopes for Some Snow Skiing

The Japanese ski resorts are incredible, with places like Niseko and Hakuba offering everything from steep runs for the pros to gorgeous tree runs where you feel like you’re carving through a winter wonderland. Plus, the vibe is so chill—imagine ending a day on the slopes with a hot spring soak and some hearty ramen. It’s like the ultimate winter getaway that’ll leave you feeling like a total snow goddess.

Knock Out a Year's Worth of Medical Tests in One Day with a Ningen Dock?

This might be a bit crazy, but maybe you should spend one day of your trip scheduling a Ningen Dock doctors appointment. The ningen dock is the Japanese complete medical checkup, or as was translated to me "checking every corner of your body". It was an incredibly efficient and affordable half day full of procedures including: blood work, blood pressure, lung checkup and X-rays, ultrasound of all stomach organs, barium exam, eye and ear check up, meeting with a nutritionist and more. There were 37 other people having the same procedures and more (you could add on a brain scan MRI, CT scan, gynecology exam, etc) and we were all dressed the same in a big waiting room where no one really spoke and no cellphones were allowed (would’ve been nice to be able to read the magazines ) and they called us back one by one for our procedures. I felt a little it like I was in the Hunger Games. As soon as they were done you met with the doctor right away to review all information and results. All of this would've been $350 out of pocket. I'm not sure how logical this is, but I've heard that foreigners do sometimes do a ningen dock when visiting. You would likely need a translator. Maybe tack on a day and get a serious health check-up for a fraction of what it would cost in the states?

Best Souvenirs to Keep An Eye Out For

Of course bringing home some souvenirs and trinkets is a must to remember your trip by. I would suggest Japanese pottery, specifically ramen bowls that you can enjoy all sorts of Japanese dishes out of like stir-fry when you are home. Don't forget to add in some chopsticks and their cute little hashioki (little decorative pieces that you rest your chopsticks on to keep them off the table). Japanese knives are a great kitchen tool to bring home and many you can even have engraved. Of course it is great to bring home some of the food you have come to love along the way. Our suitcases are always full of special soy sauces, okinomiyaki kits, rice seasoning, wasabi, grape flavored candies and other little snacks from 7-11 and of course some Japanese whiskey and sake too! Finally, we like to bring home erasable pens and other finds from Daiso and Tokyu Hands. Whatever we can fit into our suitcases!

Shopping in Japan can be a new experience too! Below are photos when I was in a fitting room. I had to leave my shoes outside the dressing room and was given a hood to wear over my face when trying things on. I didn’t get it until she showed me the sign. It’s so you don’t get makeup on the clothes! As you can imagine clothing sizes are very different there, but some of my favorite items hanging in my closet are from Japan- unique and gorgeous!

Honestly, I get sucked into trying to plan out everything or want to experience something exactly like something I've read about or seen pictures of, but go with the flow. You will see and experience things that we never did even after living there for a year and a half and several trips back. Be open to new experiences, tastes, and to looking a bit like an idiot if you don't know exactly what you're doing. All part of the fun! I'm jealous you're headed to Japan- have a blast!