Anticipation is building for the Rugby World Cup 2019 in Japan. While fans scramble to scoop up remaining tickets, the country prepares to accommodate the throngs of thirsty visitors.
Tokyo
See the city from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
This impressive building doubles as a popular tourist destination. Both the north and south towers of building 1 include free observation decks that offer unbroken views of Tokyo from a height of 202 meters. Visitors can expect to catch sight of Tokyo Skytree and Tokyo Tower, and on clear days, possibly even Mt. Fuji.
Witness a tuna auction at Toyosu Market
In 2018, Tokyo’s central wholesale market moved from its iconic location in Tsukiji to Toyosu. Access is limited, but it has been specifically designed for visitors hoping to see the early-morning tuna auctions. The upper levels house shops and restaurants, including sushi counters that were originally at Tsukiji. Arrive early to maximize your visit.
Enter another world at Teamlab’s Borderless
Digital-art collective teamLab has created 60 artworks for this museum inside the Mori Building Digital Art Museum in Odaiba. The artworks are interactive, responding to touch and movement, allowing guests to become part of the pieces. Don’t miss the magical Crystal World and Forest of Lamps. You will likely have to queue for the latter. Other offerings include the Athletics Forest, designed for children, where they can see their drawings come alive. Make sure to relax at the En Tea House, where digital flowers bloom inside your cup of tea.
Pull up a seat at The Golden Gai
Aside from the bustling crowds at Shibuya Crossing and the shows at the Robot Restaurant, few Tokyo night-time experiences are as iconic as The Golden Gai. A Shinjuku institution, this collection of tiny bars can only accommodate a handful of visitors at a time. Each bar offers its own unique identity, theme, and decoration. Some bars may only allow regular customers, while others welcome tourists. Look for bars with English signs outside. Note that many bars impose a cover charge between ¥500 to ¥1500.
Sapporo
Find peace at Hokkaidō-jingū
This shrine, dating back to 1869, is one of the oldest in Hokkaidō and is celebrated for its cherry and plum blossoms in spring. A popular “power spot,” it is beloved by many locals, thought to grant good luck in business and prosperity, being the resting place of the god of prosperity.
Get a taste of history at Sapporo Beer Museum
This attraction is located in the original Sapporo Beer Brewery, a historic ivy-covered brick building. Visitors can enjoy guided tours or explore independently with available English information. The museum includes a tasting salon where you can compare Sapporo’s signature Black Label with Sapporo Classic and Kaitakushi Pilsner. After your visit, head next door for more beer and jingisukan.
Stroll the gardens at Hokkaidō University’s Sapporo Campus
This picturesque university, established in 1876, features unique buildings and beautiful lawns and parks. The 14-hectare outdoor botanical garden boasts a collection of 200 plants and herbs and invokes the alpine scenery of Daisetsuzan National Park.
Kamaishi
Climb Kamaishi Daikannon
This towering 13-story high Buddha statue, built in 1954, includes a temple base and an observatory deck. From here, visitors can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the bay.
Learn about local industry at the Iron and Steel Museum
This museum celebrates the history of the iron industry in Kamaishi City. Visitors can watch educational videos and see a replica of Japan’s oldest western blast furnace. There are also exhibitions detailing the history of steel production, with an observation lounge for nice views of the Sanriku Coast.
Kumagaya
Escape to nature at Musashi-Kyuryo National Government Park
This expansive park includes lawns, ponds, athletic courses, and play areas. It’s a perfect natural getaway in the city where you can relax in beautiful herb gardens.
Float down the Nagatoro River
Approximately one hour from Kumagaya, Nagatoro is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The entire town is designated as a natural park, offering unforgettable river boating experiences.
Yokohama
Admire the greenery at Sankei-en Garden
This beautifully landscaped garden includes paths winding between ponds leading to historic buildings. Notable sights include the Yanohara Family Residence, a traditional Edo period house moved from Gifu Prefecture in the 1960s.
Design your own instant snack at the Cup Noodles Museum
This fascinating museum celebrates the invention of instant ramen in 1956. Visitors can design their own Cup Noodle to take home, experiencing creativity and fun.
Toyota
Visit the Toyota Municipal Museum of Art
Designed by Yoshio Taniguchi, this museum houses contemporary works of art and attracts visitors with its unique architecture. It’s a place that invites exploration and inspiration.
Catch a train to Nagoya
Just one hour away, Nagoya features museums rich in industrial history, including the Tokugawa Art Museum and Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry & Technology, perfect for car enthusiasts.
Shizuoka
Find serenity at Ryōtan-ji Temple
This ancient temple honors forty generations of the Ii family and is designated as a “Place of Scenic Beauty” in Japan. Visitors can experience the stunning and peaceful gardens.
View the land and sea from the Tenryu Hamanako Railroad
This scenic rail line offers a charming traveling experience along the north coast of Lake Hamana, showcasing the beauty of Japan’s landscape.
Kobe
Wander around Kitano-chō
This pleasant neighborhood is home to well-preserved homes of foreign traders and diplomats from the Meiji period. The fascinating architecture now houses cafes, restaurants, and shops. Be sure to try the world-famous Kobe beef.
Sample deliciousness at Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum
Here, visitors can explore traditional sake-making methods through self-guided tours, learn about the history, and sample some sake.
Higashi-Osaka
Climb Osaka Castle
This remarkable structure, originally built in the late 16th century, offers a collection of historical artifacts and boasts an observation deck with panoramic city views.
Soak in the neon of Dōtombori
Experience Osaka’s liveliest nightlife in this vibrant neighborhood, known for its neon lights and plentiful dining options.
Oita
Stimulate your mind at Oita Prefectural Art Museum
Opened in 2015 with a unique design, this museum showcases contemporary arts and crafts prominent in Oita.
Bathe in natural onsen in Yufuin
This scenic town, surrounded by mountains, is a renowned onsen resort with various options for soaking after exploring local crafts.
Fukuoka
Find enlightenment at Dazaifu Tenmangū
This shrine attracts millions of visitors yearly, featuring vibrant grounds filled with shops and snack bars, alongside beautiful walks.
Get a glimpse of history at Hakata Machiya Furusato-kan
Spread over three traditional townhouses, this folk museum recreates local culture and crafts, allowing visitors to engage with Hakata history.
