Must See Places and Best Things to Do in Japan

From the neon-drenched streets of its futuristic cities to the tranquil moss gardens of ancient temples, Japan is a land of beautiful contrasts. It’s a place where centuries of tradition coexist with cutting-edge technology, creating a travel experience unlike any other. Whether you're a foodie hunting for the perfect bowl of ramen, a history buff exploring samurai castles, or simply someone looking to soak in a different culture, our 2026 guide to Japan has you covered.

Tokyo: The Dazzling Metropolis

Welcome to Tokyo, a city that moves at lightning speed yet never loses its unique character. This sprawling metropolis is the vibrant heart of modern Japan, a place where you can find world-class dining, quirky subcultures, and serene parks all within a few train stops of each other. It’s an electrifying introduction to the country that will leave you in awe.

Best foodie finds

Tokyo is a culinary paradise. For the freshest sushi breakfast of your life, head to the outer markets of Toyosu. Dive into a laneway noodle bar in Shinjuku for a life-changing bowl of ramen, or explore the sophisticated department store food halls (depachika) for an incredible array of gourmet treats. Don't forget to try the fluffy pancakes in Harajuku or grab some yakitori (grilled skewers) from a traditional izakaya.

Getting around

Tokyo’s public transport system is a marvel of efficiency. The interconnected web of JR trains and metro lines can get you almost anywhere. Grab a Suica or Pasmo card from any station, top it up, and simply tap on and off. Google Maps is your best friend here, providing real-time train schedules and platform numbers to make navigating a breeze.

Kyoto: A Journey into Old Japan

A short Shinkansen (bullet train) ride from Tokyo's hustle and bustle lies Kyoto, the former imperial capital. Here, the pace of life slows down. It’s a city of stunning temples, perfectly manicured gardens, graceful geishas, and traditional wooden machiya houses. Walking through Kyoto feels like stepping back in time, offering a peaceful and profound look into Japan’s rich cultural heritage.

Culture & landmarks

You can’t visit Kyoto without exploring its incredible landmarks. Wander through the thousands of vermilion gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine, find your zen at the rock garden of Ryōan-ji, and gaze at the glittering Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji). For a truly magical experience, take a stroll through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove or try to spot a geiko (Kyoto's term for geisha) in the historic Gion district at dusk.

What to eat

Kyoto's cuisine is as elegant as its scenery. Indulge in a multi-course kaiseki dinner, a traditional art form that balances taste, texture, and appearance. The city is also famous for its high-quality matcha, so be sure to try everything from green tea lattes to matcha-flavoured ice cream. Nishiki Market, known as "Kyoto's Kitchen," is a must-visit for sampling local delicacies like yuba (tofu skin) and tsukemono (pickles).

Osaka: The Nation's Kitchen

If Tokyo is Japan's head and Kyoto is its heart, then Osaka is most definitely its stomach. This vibrant, friendly city is famous for its laid-back attitude and, most importantly, its incredible food scene. The local motto is kuidaore, which roughly translates to "eat until you drop," and it’s a philosophy the city lives by.

Street food + must-do experiences

Head straight to the Dotonbori district, a dazzling canal-side street lit by enormous neon signs. This is the epicentre of Osaka's street food. You must try takoyaki (octopus-filled dough balls), okonomiyaki (a savoury pancake filled with cabbage and your choice of protein), and kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers). Beyond the food, don’t miss a visit to the magnificent Osaka Castle, which offers a fascinating glimpse into Japan's feudal history and panoramic views of the city.

Cultural Etiquette and Smart Travel Tips

A little politeness goes a long way in Japan. Bowing is a sign of respect, and a simple nod of the head will be appreciated. It's considered rude to eat or drink while walking down the street. When paying for items, place your money or card in the small tray provided instead of handing it directly to the cashier. Lastly, be mindful of noise levels on public transport, where quiet is the norm.

What to Pack

Comfortable walking shoes are non-negotiable—you'll be doing a lot of exploring on foot! Pack layers of clothing, as the weather can change throughout the day. A portable power bank is a lifesaver for keeping your devices charged, and a small reusable bag is handy for shopping. While Japan is very safe, travel insurance is always a smart idea.

Staying Connected

Navigating train systems, translating menus, and posting incredible photos of your trip all rely on having data. Instead of racking up expensive global roaming charges, a smarter option is to get a travel eSIM. With an E.Tel Travel eSIM for Japan, you can activate your plan the moment you land and enjoy fast, reliable data at a fraction of the cost. It’s the easiest way to stay connected, find hidden gems, and make your mates back home jealous without the bill shock. You can get yours sorted before you even leave Australia at https://apply.etel.com.au/travelesim/japan.

Final Thoughts

Japan is a destination that will capture your imagination and stay with you long after you’ve returned home. With its blend of thrilling modernity and profound tradition, there’s truly something for every kind of traveller. So start planning, pack your bags, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.