Choose from 200 Fun Things to Do in Japan
ShowingFilter 41-60 of 200 listings.
Kabukicho
Kabukicho, one of Tokyo’s busiest nightlife and red light districts, offers the foreign visitor nothing short of a bizarre cultural experience. An estimated 150,000 people pass through the district’s 200 clubs and 80 love hotels each day, and you’re much more likely to see groups of male work associates in business suits than couples or families. After dark, the district lights up with LED signs in every color covering nearly any open wall surface. Many of the clubs catering to executives and lonely husbands are themed, so you’ll see girls wandering around in full costume on their way to or from work.
While Kabukicho isn’t a place to take the kids, it isn’t nearly as promiscuous from the street as other red light districts around the world. Come enjoy the people watching after a dinner in one of the district’s many izakayas. Even the restaurants here are themed, allowing you to enjoy a meal locked up in a stone jail cell or in a cafe full of real cats.
Despite the area’s less-than-stellar reputation, Kabukicho is remarkably safe, but it’s a good idea to come with other people and leave before midnight with the sex bars are legally required to close.
While Kabukicho isn’t a place to take the kids, it isn’t nearly as promiscuous from the street as other red light districts around the world. Come enjoy the people watching after a dinner in one of the district’s many izakayas. Even the restaurants here are themed, allowing you to enjoy a meal locked up in a stone jail cell or in a cafe full of real cats.
Despite the area’s less-than-stellar reputation, Kabukicho is remarkably safe, but it’s a good idea to come with other people and leave before midnight with the sex bars are legally required to close.
Address: Japan
From $ 50
Iriomote Island
Beautiful Iriomote Island is one of the most remote spots in the Japanese archipelago. Not a lot has changed on the island in recent decades, and 90 percent of it remains blanketed in jungle and mangrove forest, the abode of the rare Iriomote wildcat. While the interior of the island, the second largest of the Okinawa Islands, can be explored via kayak, riverboat or trek, the main draw for most of the island’s visitors are the colorful reefs covered in virgin coral that ring the island.
Snorkelers and divers who explore beneath the surface near Iriomote might spot dolphins and manta rays, who school along the aptly named Manta Way during the spring and summer.
Practical Info
Iriomote Island is accessible via high-speed ferry service from Ishigaki Island, located about 12 miles (20 kilometers) away. Many of the island’s resorts and lodges offer free transportation to and from the port.
Address: Iriomote-jima, Okinawa, Japan
From $ 34
Jigokudani Monkey Park
Located 2,789 feet (850 meters) above sea level in the Valley of Yokoyu, Jigokudani Monkey Park stands out as one of Japan's most popular and unique onsen. Although onsen (the Japanese term for hot springs) are popular throughout the country, the ones in the frequently snow-covered region of Joshinetsu-Kogen National Park in Northern Nagano attract more than just human bathers.
The forests of the valley serve as the natural habitat of wild Japanese macaques, or snow monkeys, who gather in large groups to bathe in the natural hot spring water. Jigokudani Monkey Park features a man-made onsen where the natural hot water collects and the monkeys congregate, making it possible to view and photograph these wild animals from a safe distance. Visitors are not allowed to bathe with the monkeys but can choose to visit one of the area's human-centric onsen to do some soaking of their own.
Monkey sightings are not guaranteed, but the best time to see them is during the snowiest months of the year, typically from December to March. In warmer months, the monkeys may still be around (sometimes with babies in tow), but they don't enter the pools as frequently.
Practical Info
The monkey park can be reached by bus from JR Nagano station. While the area's snow monkeys are certainly fascinating to observe, visitors should note that they're still wild animals and refrain from touching them, feeding them, or getting into the pools with them.
Address: 6845 Oaza Heion, Yamanouchi, Chubu, Japan
Hours: Summer: 8:30am–5 pm; winter 9am–4pm
Admission: Adult 500 yen, child 250 yen
From $ 96
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
Also called Genbaku Dome, this landmark was the only building left standing after the Enola Gay dropped an atom bomb on Hiroshima on Aug. 6, 1945, eventually killing 140,000 people. Genbaku is the Japanese word for 'atomic bomb.'
Originally built in 1910 as the Hiroshima Commercial Exhibition Hall, in 1933 it was renamed the Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall. The five-story building, its exterior faced with stone and plaster, was topped with a steel-framed, copper-clad dome. The bomb blast shattered much of its interior, but the majority of its frame, as well as its garden fountain, remain.
The area around the building was re-landscaped as a park between 1950 and 1964; when complete, it was formally opened to the public as a museum. Since 1952, an annual peace ceremony has been held here on August 6, and in 1996, it was declared a World Heritage site.
Originally built in 1910 as the Hiroshima Commercial Exhibition Hall, in 1933 it was renamed the Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall. The five-story building, its exterior faced with stone and plaster, was topped with a steel-framed, copper-clad dome. The bomb blast shattered much of its interior, but the majority of its frame, as well as its garden fountain, remain.
The area around the building was re-landscaped as a park between 1950 and 1964; when complete, it was formally opened to the public as a museum. Since 1952, an annual peace ceremony has been held here on August 6, and in 1996, it was declared a World Heritage site.
Practical Info
It costs 50 yen to enter the site, which is open from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. (until 7 p.m. in August and until 5 p.m. from December to February). From Hiroshima Station, take tram line 2 or 6 to Genbaku-Domu mae station. The ride takes 15 minutes and costs 150 yen.
Address: Japan
Hours: 8:30am - 6pm (until 7pm in Aug, until 5pm from Dec-Feb)
Admission: 50 yen
From $ 32
Inokashira Park
The pond within Inokashira Park was the first water source for the city of Edo—which today is Tokyo. One of the city’s most utilized green spaces, the park is particularly lovely during prime cherry-blossom viewing (hanami) and leaf peeping (momijigari) times. Inokashira also houses the famous Ghibli Museum, dedicated to Japanese anime.
The Basics
Inokashira Park was established in 1918, essentially as a gift from the emperor to the Japanese people. Inokashira Pond stretches through the park and connects to the Kanda River. The park is a popular place to come for a picnic, rent a paddleboat, or visit the resident petting zoo, aquarium, or Ghibli Museum.
Travelers often explore Inokashira Park before or after visiting the Ghibli Museum, which showcases the work of Japanese anime company Studio Ghibli.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Inokashira Park is ideal for all first-time visitors to Tokyo, especially those headed to the Ghibli Museum.
- The Kichijoji station food hall is a good place to pick up a bento box for a picnic lunch.
- While Inokashira Park is always open and free, its zoo is closed on Mondays and charges an entry fee.
- Tickets for the popular swan-shaped paddleboat rentals are time stamped, so even during busy periods, you are assured a chance to have a ride.
How to Get There
Inokashira Park, in western Tokyo, is accessible by JR or Keio trains. It’s right beside Inokashira-kōen station on the Keio Inokashira line, and a 5-minute walk from Kichijōji station and a 15-minute walk from Mitaka station, both on the JR Chuo Line.
When to Get There
Inokashira Park is open 24 hours a day. Like many of Tokyo’s parks, spring is a great time to visit, as the soft pink cherry blossoms bring many visitors and a festive atmosphere. Other seasons have their attractions as well, with lush greenery in summer, fall leaves in autumn, and migrating birds in winter.
The Ghibli Museum
For many travelers who come to Japan to experience its unique anime (animation) culture, the Ghibli Museum is an essential stop. But not only anime enthusiasts love the museum—it appeals to a range of curious minds, including kids, technology enthusiasts, and lovers of fine art. The museum has permanent and temporary exhibits as well as an on-site café, bookshop, rooftop garden, and theater. You must buy tickets in advance through the website or at Lawson convenience stores within Japan; it’s recommended to do so as far in advance as possible. The Ghibli is open from 10am to 6pm Wednesday through Sunday.
Address: 4 Inokashira, Mitaka, Tokyo, Japan
From $ 122
Jozankei
The hot-spring town of Jozankei is the perfect place to escape for a relaxing weekend soaking in the healing waters of myriad natural geothermal baths. This full-featured resort town just an hour outside of Sapporo has about 20 hotels, as well as a variety of restaurants and shops.
In the fall, Jozankei is also a popular base for foliage watchers looking to enjoy the scenery of the changing leaves. The onsens themselves are true volcanic hot springs laden with healing minerals, and during the winter, the nearby Toyohira River mixes with the spring waters, enveloping the town in inviting steam. As with most onsens in Japan, baths are divided into men’s and women’s sections, and bathing is done in the nude. The nearby Jozankei Dam and Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort are also popular attractions in the area.
Practical Info
Jozankei sits south of Sapporo along Route 230, which is a beautiful scenic route through the Toyohira River valley. If you’re not driving yourself, you can catch a bus from the Sapporo Station Bus Terminal, where buses depart a couple times an hour. Buses also connect to Jozankei from Makomanai Station, at the end of the Namboku Subway Line.
Address: Jonankei, Hokkaido, Japan
From $ 72
Kappabashi
Take a stroll down Kappabashi Street in downtown Tokyo and you’ll quickly understand why the area has been nicknamed Kitchen Town. In a city with more Michelin stars than Paris and London combined, chefs come to this place to shop for everything from sashimi knives and kitchen equipment to fake sample food. Stretching over half a mile, it’s Japan’s largest shopping street devoted solely to the culinary arts.
While the typical visitor likely isn’t in the market for kitchenware, the street is still worth a visit for its cultural significance, as well as for the opportunity to pick up some rather unique souvenirs, like plastic sushi or rice crackers shaped like super heroes.
Practical Info
Kappabashi is a large area, so remember to wear comfortable walking shoes. Tawaramachi Station on the Ginza Line is just a short walk away.
Address: Kappabashi Street, Tokyo, Japan
From $ 157
Hoheikyo
As one of Sapporo’s most popular outdoor hot springs, Hoheikyo Onsen is an ideal place to relax in healing, naturally heated waters while enjoying the beautiful forest surroundings.
Hoheikyo sits deep in a mountain canyon, and if you come during the winter time, you can soak in the volcanic hot springs surrounded by snowy peaks. During the summer, you can also spend time rafting and canoeing on the nearby Toyohira River. Hoheikyo Onsen has two separate baths, which are separated by gender and switch daily so both men and women can experience both baths. This is also one of the few outdoor hot springs in the area that allows alcohol in the bath, so you can sip a local beer as you soak. Also on-site is a popular Indian restaurant that is well known locally for authentic Indian curries and fresh nan bread.
Practical Info
Hoheikyo is an hour's drive south of downtown Sapporo. Buses leave on the hour from Sapporo Station, and when you arrive there, you can buy a ticket for both ways that also includes admission to Hoheikyo Onsen.
Address: Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
From $ 72
Itsukushima Shrine
Itsukushima Shrine, a Shinto holy site on Miyajima Island in the Seto Island Sea near Hiroshima, has a history dating back to the sixth century, when the first shrines were likely erected on the island, believed to be the above of gods. The iconic red torii, or shrine gate, that appears to float on the surface of the water just of the shores, guards the UNESCO-listed shrine. At the time the shrine was built, commoners weren’t allowed to step foot on the island due to its holy status, so the gate and temple were constructed in the water to allow visitors to approach by boat.
The entire Itsukushima complex, which in its present form dates back to the twelfth century, comprises several buildings connected by boardwalks, including a prayer hall and a performance stage.
Practical Info
For the best views of the shrine and its torii, plan to visit Miyajima Island during high tide when they’re both surrounded by water instead of mud.
Address: 1-1 Miyajimacho Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima, Japan
From $ 41
Horino Memorial Museum
The Horino Memorial Museum is about more than tasting sake. This traditional sake-brewing house in Kyoto honors the legacy of Machiya culture, a style of wooden townhouse best exemplified in Kyoto. The house formerly belonged to the Horino family, founders of the craft beer company Kinshi Masamune, but has since been converted into a museum that is open to visitors interested in learning about the history of Japanese architecture and sake brewing.
Visiting the Horino Memorial Museum provides a unique look into the art of brewing sake. The museum has an exhibit on sake brewing tools, and travelers are invited to taste three different kinds of Japanese sake, all made with water from a well on the premises. The well-water is still used today to make beer. and visitors get the chance to make their own label for a bottle of sake to take as a souvenir.
Practical Info
The Horino Memorial Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets cost 300 yen ($3 USD). The museum is within a 10-minute walk from the Karasuma Nijo stop by bus or a 10-minute walk from Marutamachi Station on Karasuma Line.
Address: 172 Kameyacho, Sakaimachidori Nijo-agaru, Kyoto, Japan
Hours: Tues-Sun 11am-5pm
Admission: 300 yen
From $ 55
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
Few will forget the fateful events of Aug. 6, 1945, when the United States dropped an atomic bomb on the city, effectively ending World War II and costing the lives of some 80,000 residents, and Hiroshima will forever be tied to its tragic past. Despite its losses, the overwhelming sentiment in Hiroshima is of peace and wandering around the poignant memorials and tributes is an emotional experience, made all the more powerful by the moving exhibitions at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum.
Both a fascinating insight into the pre-war city and a harrowing glimpse into the horrors of the bomb’s aftermath, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum is surely one of Japan’s most important museums and it’s compelling, if uncomfortable, viewing. Exhibitions chronicle the lives of Hiroshima residents during World War II and after the bombing, and depict the graphic reality of the bomb’s destruction, while simultaneously retaining a sense of hope for the future through the rebuilding of the city and the consequent efforts for international peace.
Practical Info
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum is located next to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and is open daily from 8:30am-5pm in winter or 7pm in summer. Adult admission is 50 Yen.
Address: 1-2 Nakajimacho, Naka-ku, Hiroshima, Japan
Admission: 50 yen
From $ 91
Ishigaki Island
Travelers looking to escape the energy and excitement of Okinawa can find a relaxing respite on the shores of Ishigaki Island. Although this popular destination ranks among the Yaeyama Islands’ most populated centers—the silver shores of Ishigaki are a globetrotter’s delight. Visitors can float across the emerald waters of Kabira Bay aboard glass-bottom boats and wander around Kabira Park promenade where epic views are prove to be more than photoworthy.
Well-kept dressing rooms complete with showers and toilets, shaded areas and shallow waters make Sukuji Beach ideal for families looking to wade through the coast’s crystal clear waters. And travelers without small children will love the uninterrupted views of Uganzaki lighthouse in the far distance. Yonehara’s coral reefs attract both novice and experienced snorkelers who say the close-to-shore aquatic life is some of the best on the island.
Practical Info
Although inexpensive boat trips can be purchased last minute from luxury liners that have not reached capacity, there is no official ferry service to the island. Most travelers arrive and depart via Ishigaki Airport, and while taxis, bicycles and buses are available on the island, visitors agree the city is easy to explore on foot.
Address: Ishigaki Island, Japan
From $ 34
Japanese Sword Museum
This well-curated museum showcases the ancient art of sword making and is home to more than 150 artifacts. Swords, mountings, armor and metal work are beautifully displayed in this tiny Tokyo destination known as Token hakubutsukan by locals.
The four-story structure houses a gallery and bookstore, where items are available for purchase in a variety of languages. Displays offer visitors English translations with details on the design and use of swords, including some that date back more than 900 years.
Practical Info
Travelers agree this museum can be difficult to find, so whenever possible, it’s best to rely on GPS for directions. It is accessible via the Shibuya Station metro and small signs help point lost visitors in the right direction.
Address: 4-25-10 Yoyogi, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 151-0053, Japan
Admission: 600JPY
From $ 115
Kagurazaka
Kagurazaka is a neighborhood of Tokyo that offers modern shopping and but also a traditional style. It has an older feel than much of Tokyo, with cobblestone streets and original Edo-era (1603–1868) and Meiji-era (1868–1912) buildings still standing. It’s a trendy area, and a good place to shop or just sit quietly and people-watch.
The Basics
Kagurazaka was once a center of geisha culture in Tokyo. Some geisha houses still exist, and the area in general retains a lot of historic charm. Kagurazaka is known as Tokyo’s French Quarter; there’s a higher than average number of French people living and working here because it’s close to two French schools. Where the French go, stylish French cafes follow, and so it’s easy to find a good croissant and cheese to nibble on between browsing the fashionable boutiques.
Visitors tend to come to Kagurazaka on guided or self-guided walking tours. Guided walks included the district on Edo-era tours because of its history. Fun craft classes can also be done at Kagurazaka.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Don’t miss the Akagi Jinja, a modern shrine made of wood and glass.
- The best way to visit Kagurazaka is on foot, on a simple self-guided walking tour from Iidabashi Station to Kagurazaka-Shita and Kagurazaka-Ue.
- In addition to its French flavors, Kagurazaka is highly regarded as a centre of Japanese Kanto cuisine. Foodies should seek out a traditional ryotei restaurant serving high-class (and high-price) kaiseki cuisine.
How to Get There
Like most places in central Tokyo, it’s best to reach Kagurazaka via train or subway, either using the JR Chuo line to Iidabashi Station, the Oedo Subway Line to Ushigome-Kagurazaka Station, or the Tozai Subway Line to Kagurazaka Station. Driving or taking a taxi isn’t recommended, as cars are prohibited on main roads during busy times.
When to Get There
The main street of Kagurazaka is pedestrianized on weekends and on holidays, making it more pleasant to walk around at these times. Kagurazaka hosts the annual Kagurazaka Awa Odori Festival in late July, famous for traditional dance and music, so this is an especially good time to visit as well.
Visit the Imperial Palace
Kagurazaka is very near Tokyo’s Imperial Palace, where the Emperor of Japan and his family still live. It’s worth combining a trip to these two sights in a single day. Although visitors can only enter the inner grounds of the palace on select days of the year, you can walk around the outer grounds anytime. The huge scale of the walls and the moat is impressive.
Address: Kagurazaka, Shinjuku, Tokyo 162-0825, Japan
From $ 34
Hozenji Yokocho
Traveling to Osaka often feels like visiting the future with all its colorful neon lights and pulsing sounds, but strolling down Hozenji Yokocho — a narrow alley just south of bustling Dotombori, feels like stepping into the past. Excellent restaurants, izakayas and boutiques line this stone-paved street, lit at night in the soft glow of paper lanterns.
The alley’s most famous attraction is a small temple where devotees come to splash water over moss-covered statue of the Buddha. The temple was built in the seventeenth century in honor of Fudo Myoo, one of the Five Wisdom Buddhas.
Practical Info
Come hungry, as the restaurants located along Hozenji Yokocho enjoy an excellent reputation in Osaka.
Address: 1-2-16 Nanba, Osaka, Japan
From $ 32
Jojakko-ji Temple
Jojakko-ji Temple is not an ordinary temple; it was built on the side of a mountain in the thick of a famous bamboo grove. Finding it feels like an adventure, and climbing to the top feels like a workout. The view of Kyoto from the top of Jojakko-ji Temple rewards the effort mightily.
Located in the idyllic Arashiyama district of Kyoto, Jojakko-ji Temple was built in the 1500s, and the journey to it is all uphill from its gate. Its steep staircase leads to multiple buildings, including a main hall and a pagoda that houses a Buddha. The sites along the way offer respites from the climb, and one of the most popular of these resting points is a mossy area with the bamboos directly overhead. The top of the pagoda offers an incredible view over the city, and this hidden gem of a temple is undoubtedly worth the train ride out to Arashiyama.
Practical Info
Admission to Jojakko-ji Temple is 400 yen ($4 USD). The temple can be reached by a 15-minute walk from the JR Kyoto Station on the JR Sagano Line. The best time to visit is in the autumn, when the foliage around the temple is at its peak color.
Address: 3 Saga Ogurayamaoguracho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan
Admission: 400 yen ($4 USD)
From $ 81
Kasai Rinkai Park
Kasai Rinkai Park, Tokyo’s largest park, opened in 1989 on Tokyo Bay, a beautiful area that overlooks the water and the city beyond. Built on reclaimed land, the park was developed with conservation and preservation in mind.
The Diamond and Flowers Ferris Wheel is by far the park’s most famous site, an iconic behemoth that sits 383 feet (117 meters) tall. Any trip to the park is incomplete without the 17-minute ride on the famous structure, as the views from the top encompass all of Tokyo and the surrounding areas, including Mt Fuji on a clear day.
Also on site is the Tokyo Sealife Aquarium, which features an all-glass dome that transports visitors straight into the sea with fish and other aquatic life swimming above, around and below them. There is also the Sea Bird Sanctuary, an outdoor preserve that takes up nearly one-third of the park. Bird and nature lovers, as well as photographers, flock to the sanctuary to see local birds, and visitors are free to walk around and explore the whole area other than the protected marshes.
Practical Info
The closest subway stop to Kasai Rinkai Park is Kasai Rinkai Koen Station on the JR Keiyo line. The trip takes about 10 to 15 minutes from Tokyo Station. The ferris wheel is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekdays and until 9 p.m. on weekends and holidays. Admission costs 700 yen ($7 USD). The aquarium is open from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The admission fee is also 700 yen with discounts for seniors and students.
Address: 6 Rinkaicho, Edogawa, Tokyo 134-0086, Japan
Hours: Ferris Wheel: 10am-8pm weekdays, 10am-9pm weekends; Aquarium: 9:30am-5pm
Admission: Adults 700 Yen
From $ 81
Imperial Palace
Home to Japan’s Emperor, Tokyo’s Imperial Palace occupies the site of the original Edo Castle (Edo-jō), the Tokugawa shogunate's castle, which was once the largest fortress in the world. Located in the center of Tokyo, the palace is surrounded by moats and serene gardens.
The Basics
Given that it is a royal residence, the palace interior and some of the grounds are closed to the public. You can stroll the meticulously manicured Imperial Palace East Garden, set at the foot of the hill where Edo Castle's foundation remains, and the Imperial Palace Outer Garden. From here you can view two famous bridges, the iron Nijubashi and the stone Meganebashi.
Free tours in English, organized by the Imperial Household Agency, allow you to see a small part of the inner compound. Or combine a visit to the Imperial Palace with other Tokyo attractions, such as the Asakusa and Ginza districts, on a sightseeing tour by bus or chartered taxi or a walking tour. Some tours allow travelers to stop for photos at the palace and also experience a Sumida River cruise, participate in a traditional tea ceremony, or take in the view from the top of Tokyo Tower.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Imperial Palace is a must-visit for those with an interest in Japanese history.
- This has been the Imperial residence since 1868 when Emperor Meiji moved here from the former capital of Kyoto.
- To avoid disappointment, it is best to book tour tickets in advance, but walk-in tickets are also available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- It is free to stop at the palace for photos, but various museums on the grounds may require admission fees.
- The grounds may be closed when Imperial Court functions are scheduled.
How to Get There
The Tokyo Imperial Palace is located in a large park area in the Chiyoda ward of central Tokyo. It is a 15-minute walk to Otemon Gate, the main entrance point, from Otemachi metro station, which is served by the Chiyoda, Tozai, Hanzomon, Mita, and Marunouchi lines. Free tours depart from the Kikyomon Gate, a 10-minute walk from the Otemachi and Nijubashi metro stations.
When to Get There
The gardens are open Tuesday through Thursday and on Saturday and Sunday. Tours are offered morning and afternoon, every day except Sundays and Mondays, national holidays, and December 28 through January 4. Only morning tours are available between July 21 and August 31.
Cherry Blossoms
During sakura, the spring cherry blossom season, more of the palace grounds with old cherry trees are open to the public. It's definitely worth a visit during this time for great opportunities to photograph blooming cherry trees framing the palace, but be prepared for bigger crowds and a more thorough security process.
Address: 1-1 Chiyoda, Tokyo 100-8111, Japan
Admission: Free
From $ 45
Kamogawa River
Strolling along the Kamo River (also referred to as Kamogawa River) at night is a quintessential Kyoto experience. The fourth longest river in Kyoto spans from the northeastern most parts of the city southwest to the Katsuragawa River. The most popular section of the river runs through the famous geisha district of Gion. In warmer months, the river becomes a popular spot for picnics, walks, and people watching.
A walking path along the river’s edge gives way to stretches of parkland, perfect for enjoying an afternoon or evening. Restaurants situated above the river light up at night, illuminating the river below. There are five bridges that span the Kamo River. More adventurous travelers may enjoy finding each of them. Along with the Seine in Paris or the Tiber River in Italy, the Kamo River is a favorite spot among locals.
Practical Info
The most frequented spot on the Kamogawa River is in the Gion district of Tokyo. Shimbashi neighborhood is on the east bank, and Pontocho neighborhood is on the west bank. The most popular time to visit is at sunset.
Address: Kyoto, Japan
From $ 63
Huis Ten Bosch
Named after one of the residences of the Dutch royal family, Huis Ten Bosch is a theme park in Sasebo, Nagasaki Prefecture. Opened in 1992, this unique attraction is a recreation of a 17th-century Dutch village, complete with authentic architecture, canals, windmills, and historic monuments.
Huis Ten Bosch’s Dutchstyle buildings house hotels, theaters, museums, shops, and restaurants. Along with the iconic Dutch architecture and scenic canals, a number of gardens featuring seasonal flowers add to the park’s pleasant surroundings. Various events take place at different times of the year, including a tulip festival during the spring and a fireworks event in the summer.
The park is divided into two main zones. The Theme Park Zone features various amusements, including a haunted house, mirror maze, Ferris Wheel and a replica of the Domtoren (Dom Tower) of Utrecht. The Harbor Zone's main attractions include a theater and a replica of the Palace Huis Ten Bosch, which houses an art museum.
Practical Info
Huis Ten Bosch Station and Nagasaki Station are connected by the JR Seaside Liner, and the trip is covered by the Japan Rail Pass and Kyushu Rail Pass. From Nagasaki Airport, there’s a highspeed boat service directly to the resort, with the journey taking 50 minutes.Several hotels with a European theme are located around the park, and there are countless restaurants and other eateries offering international cuisine.
Address: 11 Huis Ten Bosch Machi, Sasebo, Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan 859-3292, Japan
Hours: 9am-10pm
Admission: Day passes: Senior: 6,000 yen; Adult: 6,500 yen; Junior: 5,500 yen; Child (Under 4): 4,100 yen
From $ 41