Travel Tips: Things to Do in Japan

If you have never had the opportunity to travel to Japan, but you’re thinking it’s next on your list – or even if it’s a dream destination – I can tell you first hand, it’s a stunningly beautiful country with so much to see. From the sparkling big city lights of Tokyo to the Bamboo Groves of the countryside, the beauty and grandeur of Japan will make you want to stay forever. Incredibly kind people and a culture so deeply rooted in history, makes visiting an epic and, for many, a life-changing experience. Our family has been lucky enough to spend some time in this lovely country, so here’s a few things to do in Japan, if you’d like to see.

Things to Do in Japan

Take in the big city Tokyo views

Just arrived #tokyo excited to be here. #Japan

A photo posted by Loren Ridinger (@lorenridinger) on Oct 14, 2015 at 2:55pm PDT

Visit the Golden Temple

Golden Temple in #kyoto so gorgeous. ???? A photo posted by Loren Ridinger (@lorenridinger) on Oct 22, 2015 at 2:37am PDT

Enjoy a Bamboo Grove

…So much to be said about this incredible place. From the people, to the history, and everything in between, Japan will forever be a special pitstop in my personal journey passport. I really grew to appreciate the change in environment and difference in customs. The removing of shoes when entering certain restaurants and clothing stores, FYI – Japanese fashion is next level. Learning the language and traditional prayer techniques at the shrines and temples – all welcoming to believers of different faith such as myself… It was all so spiritually gratifying. Let’s not forget the 50,000+ vending machines stocked with everything and anything you can think of. I bought a headphones/hot-soup/cold-drink/iPhone charger combo for $8 just by pressing D14… America we need this! …All in all, the trip was successful and I’m grateful for the opportunity and ability to share it. If you’ve been here before, you already know. If you haven’t, you need to. If you’ve never traveled before, travel here first. If you’re in a situation where you don’t think you’ll ever go somewhere this far, stop lying to yourself, pack a suitcase, put it in a corner with a promise attached and KEEP THAT PROMISE! Leaving this place more balanced and blessed, closer to my family and 100x less stressed. Thank you Japan! #Kyoto

A photo posted by Duane McLaughlin (@duanemclaughlin) on Oct 23, 2015 at 1:28pm PDT

Explore the Imperial Palace

Imperial Palace #tokyo A photo posted by Loren Ridinger (@lorenridinger) on Oct 16, 2015 at 3:46pm PDT

Experience Life as a Samurai

Try the Local Cuisine

O M A K A S E #CHEFSSPECIAL #RITZCARLTONKYOTO #KYOTO2015 #lunch

A photo posted by Mrs. McLaughlin <3 (@amberridinger) on Oct 22, 2015 at 4:07pm PDT

….and the Local Traditions

G E I K O – S A N & M A I K O – S O N #ONLYINKYOTO #KYOTO2015 #CULTURE #LOVE #liveinthemoment #fun #worldtour #seriouslymusthavehad7layerson A photo posted by Mrs. McLaughlin <3 (@amberridinger) on Oct 19, 2015 at 3:23pm PDT

To have a look at even more photos from our trip, visit JR’s blog. Have you ever traveled or dreamed of traveling to Japan? What sights are first on your list?