5 experiences to have in Japan

For a trip to Japan, let yourself be carried away by the incredible diversity of experiences in Japan the archipelago has to offer and immerse yourself in the heart of its centuries-old culture as well as its dazzling modernity. Here is a selection of five must-have experiences in Japan to enjoy during your stay while discovering different facets of Japanese culture!

Key takeaways

Experience	What it allows you to discover
Matsuri	Traditions, local festivals and community life
Ryokan and onsen	Japanese way of life and well-being
Nightlife	Izakaya, bars and lively neighbourhoods
Japanese cuisine	Regional specialities and Japanese food
Shinkansen	High-speed rail travel and discovering several regions

Matsuri (festivals)

Taking part in a matsuri offers direct access to Japanese culture in all its splendour, with vibrant Japanese traditions, colourful parades and local specialities. Festivals in Japan take place throughout the year and are a great opportunity to meet local people in a lively and popular atmosphere.

Among the most iconic Japanese festivals to discover:

To make the most of the experience, arrive early to secure a good spot for the parades and remember to book entrance tickets when possible. Don't hesitate to try the local specialities and respect local customs while enjoying the festivities. Each matsuri has its own atmosphere, so choose according to your preferences: a huge popular festival, a historic procession or an energetic dance festival!

Ryokan and onsen

Staying in a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn, offers a unique immersion into the Japanese way of life. You will discover authentic accommodation featuring tatami mats, futons, refined hospitality and, in many cases, the opportunity to enjoy an onsen (natural hot spring).

Tips for a successful experience:

• Book your ryokan in Japan in advance, especially during peak seasons such as cherry blossom season or autumn.
• Mention any dietary requirements when making your reservation if necessary.
• As soon as you enter, remove your shoes and wear the yukata provided to move around the inn.
• Before bathing in an onsen, take a thorough shower: hygiene is an essential part of the ritual! Baths are often shared, but some ryokans offer private onsen.
• Dinner, often served in the room, is an opportunity to enjoy a kaiseki, a refined form of Japanese cuisine.
• Keep noise to a minimum in communal areas and respect the tranquillity of the place. If you have tattoos, check the establishment's rules beforehand: some onsen may still restrict access, while others accept tattoos or offer private baths.

The personalised attention and sense of hospitality make a stay in a ryokan an exceptional experience, where Japanese tradition meets modern relaxation.

Japan's nightlife

Japanese nightlife comes alive with energy and creativity, particularly in Tokyo, a true hub for nightlife in Japan and trendy outings. Everyone can find their own atmosphere, from intimate cocktail bars to cutting-edge nightclubs, lively karaoke venues and bustling izakaya.

Top nightlife districts in Tokyo:

• Shibuya: For its vibrant youth culture, iconic clubs such as Womb, and streets that remain lively late into the night.
• Shinjuku: Perfect for exploring hidden bars, authentic izakaya and experiencing Tokyo's underground scene.
• Roppongi: Cosmopolitan atmosphere, a wide range of nightclubs, themed bars and famous cabarets.
• Harajuku: Cafés, trendy spots and a creative atmosphere, even in the evening.

Nightlife in Japan now offers a wide range of possibilities, from night festivals and sake or whisky bars to evenings combining modernity and tradition.

Japanese cuisine

Among the must-try dishes are sushi, tempura, sashimi, takoyaki (octopus balls), gyoza, okonomiyaki (savoury pancake), wagyu (Japanese beef) and tonkatsu. Healthy and fermented foods such as miso are also enjoying growing popularity this year.

For an authentic experience, explore the small streets and markets where each city reveals its own Japanese specialities and culinary surprises. Arrive early at popular restaurants to avoid long waits.

Places to try:

• Yatai in Fukuoka for udon, yakitori or ramen on the go.
• Themed restaurants in Tokyo or Osaka, offering unusual and creative experiences.
• Izakaya for sharing Japanese-style tapas over sake.

The iconic Shinkansen

It is impossible to talk about Japan without mentioning the Shinkansen, the high-speed train in Japan synonymous with efficiency and modernity. It is a unique and enjoyable way to travel around Japan, particularly on the Tokaido line connecting Tokyo and Osaka/Kyoto, with a magnificent view of Mount Fuji. Choose seats on the right-hand side of the train when travelling from Tokyo towards Kyoto or Osaka to maximise your chances of seeing it.

Thanks to the Shinkansen, every region becomes accessible in no time: set off to discover a matsuri, an onsen or a local culinary destination, for a Japanese journey that is both fast and stimulating!

Tips for a stress-free experience:

• Reserve your seats, especially during busy periods or when travelling with large pieces of luggage.
• Trains offer different classes and exceptional comfort: cleanliness, punctuality, quietness and spacious seats.
• Don't miss the chance to buy an ekiben, a regional bento sold at railway stations, perfect for enjoying the journey at more than 300 km/h while discovering the richness of Japanese cuisine.

Every moment spent in Japan offers its own surprises and delights. From centuries-old Japanese festivals and refined Japanese hospitality to vibrant nightlife, culinary pleasures and futuristic train journeys, Japan promises a complete and unforgettable Japanese travel experience.