1. Stay at a Ryokan
A ‘Ryokan’ is a Japanese style inn which can be found throughout the country, usually paired with hot springs and traditional bathhouses. Staying at a ‘ryokan’ during your trip to Japan is a great way to experience and indulge in the traditional Japanese lifestyle. The minimalistic setting; tatami floors, futon beds, Japanese style baths are popular among both the Japanese and foreign tourists alike.
Naraya, Kusatsu Onsen
However, there are many different types of ‘ryokan’s, varying by location, size, cost and style. Many of the ‘ryokan’s are small, family-run businesses with a few rooms, while others are larger, offering hotel-like facilities and services. The average cost of a ryokan stay is between 15,000 yen (RM600) and 25,000 yen (RM990) per person, per night. We recommend you to spend at least one night in a ryokan, as a good experience during your visit to Japan. The stay usually includes an elaborate traditional dinner in the evening, followed by breakfast the next morning.2. Have a relaxing traditional cup of tea

Mount Fuji and tea fields in Shizuoka
If you haven’t noticed, tea is a fundamental part of life for the Japanese. You can find them anywhere, from convenient stores, restaurants to tea houses. To make you experience a little bit more special, try immersing yourself in a tea ceremony at a local tea house. A tea house is typically small and simple place, but that doesn’t limit its fun. You may have tea in front of the most spectacular views of the country such as the tea fields in Shizouka or at Tottori’s Kannonin Temple. However, remember that a tea ceremony comes with proper Japanese etiquette such as sitting in a certain position and holding it in the proper way. Sign up for a tea ceremony session near you and they will guide you through this unique process. At certain temples and gardens, tea (usually ryokucha or matcha) and sweets are available to tourists, served in a relaxing tatami room with views of natural scenery. While the tea is sometimes included in the temple's or garden's admission fee, it often requires a small fee of a few hundred yen.
Last but not least, if you missed the tea ceremony experience, do not worry, for tea is sold in bottles and cans at stores and vending machines across the whole country. Interestingly, they are available both hot or cold, although the sale of hot tea is rare during the summer months.
3. Watching a sumo match
Book your seats in advance! Because Sumo grand tournaments are the ultimate experience available only in Japan. These big matches take place in four main places: Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya and Fukuoka.

4. Chill out in a rock garden
To escape the hustle and bustle of the city, relax by having a ‘time out’ in a tranquil Japanese ‘zen’ garden. One of the largest gardens in Japan, ‘Kyoto Ryoan-Ji’ which consists of 15 rocks organised on gravel in a courtyard offers a refreshing meditation experience you wouldn't want to miss!
5. Shop for local goods
The capital city of Japan has arguably the best selection of stores selling everything from traditional goods, branded items, fashion and Anime merchandise. While having a sheer variety of souvenirs to choose from, head to local shopping areas for goods you cannot get anywhere else such as kimonos, scrolls, ceramics, crafts etc.
Take home traditional souvenirs from Japan by shopping at Aki-Oka: Akihabara, Bingoya: Wakamatsu Kawada, Kuroeya: Nihonbashi and many more!
6. Ride a Bullet train


You can also experience some of the world’s greatest culinary experiences when it comes to Train food. Apart from having in-car dining and snacks (fresh sushi, soba and cup noddles), the train station bento boxes (known as Ekiben) are to die for.
Presented in beautiful decorative boxes featuring beautiful artwork and typography, the Ekiben can be bought from train station platforms and retailers located nearby. There are hundreds of Ekiben varieties to choose from, therefore, you will definitely find something that suits your palate. Some even come in self-heating boxes that magically heat up your meal when opened.7. Watch a traditional festival
Last but not least, what can be more local than joining a traditional Japanese festival? Japan’s traditional festivals are always an exciting and fun experience to watch and participate. Among many others, the most famous one is the ‘Aomori Nebuta Matsuri’ where enormous artworks are paraded through the town. With 3 million people gathered each year, this event is a large spectacle to witness. Check out the dates of these festivals below to plan your trip around!Takayama Matsuri, Gifu

Location | Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture |
Date | Spring (14th-15th April) and Autumn (9th-10th October) |
Gion Matsuri, Kyoto

Location | Shijo Karasumae |
Date | Entire month of July |
The Tenjin Matsuri, Osaka
Location | Osaka Tenmangu Shrine |
Date | 24th - 25th of July |
Aomori Nebuta Matsuri, Aomori

Location | Aomori City, Aomori Prefecture |
Date | 2nd - 7th August |
Karatsu Kunchi, Saga

Location | Kyushu |
Date | 2nd - 4th November |
Chichibu Night Festival (Chichibu Yomatsuri), Saitama

Location | Chichibu Shrine, Saitama Prefecture |
Date | 2nd - 3rd December |
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