Japan has been at the top of my travel list for years, and what draws me most is the variety.
Whether it’s the tranquillity of a Kyoto teahouse, the energy of Osaka’s food markets, or the snow-covered peaks of Hokkaido – there seems to be something for every type of traveller.
Planning a trip to Japan has been one of the most exciting parts of my travel research. Here are the reasons I’m so eager to go and what I’m most looking forward to experiencing!
Effortless and scenic travel in Japan
Being an absolute train nerd, I’m obviously desperate to try Japan’s railways out!
From what I’ve read, Japan’s train system isn’t just a way to get from A to B – it’s part of the adventure.
The shinkansen, or bullet trains, are legendary for their speed (the Osaka to Kyoto train takes just 15 minutes) and efficiency, but what really excites me are the views.
Imagine gliding past Mount Fuji, tiny villages with tiled rooftops, and endless rice fields—all while travelling at over 300 km/h.
The Sagano Scenic Railway near Kyoto offers open-air carriages that wind through forested valleys and along the Hozugawa River. I’ve read that it’s particularly stunning in autumn, with the hillsides ablaze in reds and oranges. With the Tokyo to Kyoto train taking just over two hours, this is easy to visit from the capital!
Then there’s Hokkaido, where winter train journeys promise snow-covered landscapes straight out of a postcard.
Japan’s ferries also sound fascinating. The idea of hopping on an overnight ferry to Hokkaido or exploring the remote islands of Shikoku and Kyushu has completely captured my imagination. Everything I’ve researched about Japan suggests that getting around is a highlight of the trip!
Immersive cultural experiences in Japan
Japan’s rich traditions and cultural depth are reason enough to visit.
Kyoto seems like the perfect place to dive into it all. I dream of stepping into a quiet teahouse for a traditional tea ceremony, where every movement – from whisking the matcha to serving the tea – follows a ritual perfected over centuries. I’ve also read about the chance to stay in ryokans, traditional inns with tatami mat floors, futons, and carefully prepared meals that reflect the seasons.
Festivals are another thing I’d love to experience.
Japan celebrates everything from the arrival of cherry blossoms to vibrant summer events like Kyoto’s Gion Matsuri, which fills the city with floats and street food.
Nara also fascinates me—not just for its ancient temples but for the deer that roam freely, bowing to visitors for treats.Â
Unique Cuisine
I’ll admit—Japan isn’t the easiest place for vegetarians. But as someone who’s obsessed with ramen, I’m determined to make it work!
These days, there are vegetarian-friendly ramen spots popping up in cities like Tokyo and Osaka, and I’ve been bookmarking a few.
From what I’ve read, T’s TanTan in Tokyo Station serves bowls of creamy sesame ramen that are completely plant-based, and Engine Ramen in Kyoto offers a fantastic miso version.
What also excites me is how regional Japan’s cuisine is. Kyoto, for example, is known for its tofu dishes, like yudofu – hot tofu simmered in a delicate broth – which I’d love to try in a traditional setting.
Market culture is another draw.
Nishiki Market in Kyoto and the outer areas of Tokyo’s Tsukiji Market sound like perfect places to explore fresh, local ingredients, from vegetable tempura to mochi stuffed with seasonal fruits.
Natural wonders
Japan’s landscapes seem so diverse that it feels like an entire world packed into one country!
The iconic sight of Mount Fuji is, of course, at the top of my list.
From what I’ve read, viewing it from the Fuji Five Lakes area offers some of the best perspectives, especially in spring when cherry blossoms frame the mountain.
I’m also drawn to Hakone, where you can soak in a hot spring with a view of Fuji on clear days – talk about relaxation with a side of scenery!
Then there are places I hadn’t heard much about until diving into research.
Takachiho Gorge in Kyushu, for example, looks like something out of a dream, with its towering cliffs and emerald waters.
Hokkaido sounds incredible too, especially for its national parks like Daisetsuzan, where you can hike volcanic trails and maybe spot a bear or two (from a safe distance, obviously).
Japan’s seasons also fascinate me. Cherry blossoms in spring are the most famous, but I’d love to visit in autumn when places like Nikko and the Japanese Alps turn into a patchwork of gold and crimson.
Even winter feels magical, with snow monkeys soaking in hot springs in Nagano and ski resorts that rival Europe’s best!
Vibrant cities and innovation
Tokyo is the kind of city that sounds impossible to describe in just a few words – everything I’ve read about it suggests a place where tradition and cutting-edge technology collide.
I’d love to explore Asakusa’s old-world charm with its historic temples before heading to Akihabara to see the latest in robotics and gaming culture.
The idea of a city where you can shop for handmade paper in the morning and watch robots “perform” at dinner is endlessly intriguing.
Osaka seems like Tokyo’s cheeky younger sibling, famous for its food and energy. I’ve read that Dotonbori’s neon lights and endless eateries make it a must-visit at night.
Plus, the chance to try vegetarian okonomiyaki (a savoury pancake) in its birthplace is something I’m excited about.
Hiroshima also stands out—not just for its moving history at the Peace Memorial Park but for its quieter, reflective atmosphere compared to other big cities.
Japan’s smaller cities sound just as appealing.
Fukuoka, for example, is known for its relaxed vibe and coastal scenery, while Kanazawa is home to traditional tea districts and beautifully preserved samurai homes.
Warm hospitality and unique accommodations
One of the things I’ve heard repeatedly about Japan is how warmly visitors are welcomed. The concept of omotenashi – a deep-rooted culture of hospitality – seems to shape every interaction, from shop assistants bowing to you to hotel staff going above and beyond to make your stay comfortable.
It’s not just about service but about making you feel genuinely cared for, and that’s something I’d love to experience firsthand.
Japan’s accommodations also sound like part of the adventure.
Staying in a ryokan is high on my list—not just for the traditional tatami mat rooms, but for the chance to enjoy a kaiseki meal, an elaborate multi-course dinner that reflects the local season. Onsen towns like Hakone and Beppu also seem like incredible places to relax, soaking in natural hot springs while surrounded by beautiful scenery.
For something completely different, Japan’s quirky accommodation options are equally fascinating.
Capsule hotels are a must-try for their space-age vibe and efficient use of space, while temple stays—like those at Mount Koya—offer the chance to sleep in serene surroundings and even join the monks for morning prayers.
Every type of lodging seems to offer its own unique glimpse into Japanese culture, which is one of the reasons I’m so eager to go!
Final thoughts
While I haven’t had the chance to visit Japan yet, everything I’ve read and seen makes it feel like an unforgettable destination.
From the serenity of ancient temples to the energy of its modern cities, Japan seems to offer a little bit of everything. I hope I’ll have the chance to visit in 2025!
