Ryokans are the best place to recharge, so they make a great stopover in the middle of your trip to help re-energize your body and soul. We opted to stay in a Ryokan in Kyoto. It was the perfect place to reset from the busy atmosphere of Tokyo. The days we spent in the Ryokan were some of the most peaceful of our entire trip. We even opted to spend almost an entire day in our room as it was just that comfy. We read our books, drank tea and sat in the zen garden, watching the locals walk by on their way to and from the center of the city. Although there are a few Ryokans in Tokyo, for the most part, Ryokans are found in the countryside, where the ambiance seems to suit the location.

Table Of Contents

1. What is a Ryokan
2. History of the Ryokan
3. How Much Does it Cost?
4. Yukatas
5. Onsen
6. Kaiseki-ryori
7. Breakfast

What is a Ryokan

A Ryokan is a traditional Japanese guesthouse. They are found inside typically historic wooden buildings, usually low to the ground with one a few storeys. Walking inside, they are decorated with straw tatami mats, paper sliding doors and screens, an onsite onsen, and a beautiful garden. Each of these items combines to form the mould of the Ryokan experience.

History of the Ryokan

The first Ryokans were free boarding houses to give people a place of refuge from the elements. Back then, there were no highways or set routes for people to travel, so often, pilgrims would find themselves sleeping outside under the stars. Buddist monks set up these rooming houses to help the less fortunate.

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The Samurai Influence

Years later, in the Edo period, Ryokans were places of sanctuary for travelling samurai. This is where the ideas of ceremonial meals and tea services came into popularity. Samurai were honoured warriors and hosting them in your home was considered a great privilege. As a host, you wanted to do everything you could to keep them happy and entertained. The samurai would dine and drink sake late into the night, knowing inside the Ryokan they were safe from attack. One of the reasons for Ryokans’ architectural designs with low ceilings and narrow staircases was to ensure it was difficult to swing a sword. This was done to ensure the samurai respected the sanctuary and no fighting ensued inside.

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Modern Day

When the economy began to boom in Japan and roads were built, more and more people began travelling. One of the most popular destinations were various hot springs (onsens) around the country. To service these travellers, Ryokans started opening their doors to everyone, and the modern idea of guesthouses was established. But the Ryokans continued to serve food and drink to their guests, just as they had to samurais long before them. And the Buddist ideals of peace inside the walls of the Ryokan also cemented itself into the history of Ryokans forever.

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How Much Does it Cost?

While Ryokans are on the pricier side of accommodations, there are a variety of types of Ryokans to choose from. You can find historic Ryokans, luxury Ryokans and even economy family-run establishments. Each different type comes at a different price level. The economy Ryokans don’t offer elaborate meal service, so the price is significantly reduced. These still have all the amenities and stunning interiors. They are great options if you want to experience a Ryokan without breaking the bank. The luxury Ryokans on the other hand are a once in a lifetime experience. Sometimes with a private, in-room onsen to enjoy outside with stunning views of the countryside around you.

Shoe Etiquette

The most important rule to keep in mind when checking into your Ryokan is to remove your shoes. When you walk into the Ryokan, there will be a large cabinet by the door where you can store your outdoor shoes. You will be presented with a pair of indoor slippers to wear inside. But even these slippers must be removed when you enter your tatami floored room. Ryokans are made of precious and delicate materials so doing your part to preserve them is very important. If your Ryokan has an outdoor area or outdoor onsen, you will find they might offer outdoor wooden sandals to wear as well.

Style of Rooms

Walking into your room, you will immediately be blown away by how different it looks from any other hotel room you’ve ever stayed inside. Staying at a Ryokan is unlike any other hotel experience. Guests typically stay in tatami mat rooms with futons for sleeping, and traditional sliding doors called shoji. The rooms are designed to be simple and uncluttered, creating a peaceful atmosphere.

Living/Dining Room

Laid out on the floor of the living/dining room is a low table and set of chairs called “zaisu.” Since the tatami mats are delicate, sharp furniture legs could not be placed on top. So the legless chair called the zaisu was invented. In the winter, some rooms will come with a kotatsu table. These tables have a large blanket that sits on top with a heat source underneath. Perfect for keeping you warm as you sit at the table. Since Ryokans are a popular escape, these really make your stay more comfortable even in the winter.

To complete your dining room, you’ll always find a tea set for your convenience. This means you can have a warm cup of tea any time of the day in the comfort of your room.

The Bedroom Transformation

When you first enter your room, you might be wondering, “where is the bed?“. You’ll look all over, but you won’t find one. Instead of a separate bedroom and living room, Ryokans combine the two into one transformative space. When you are out in the evening, the staff will come into your room and set up your bed for you. I always try to hit upon the onsen in the evening to allow the staff some time to make this change.

Hidden away either in the closet or nearby storage area is a Japanese futon laid out on the floor, and the table and chairs are moved away for the evening. This change will happen like magic as if performed by elves or other enchanting creatures. Unlike most hotel rooms which only have a bedroom, it’s really nice to be able to have both a living room, dining room and bedroom all to yourself. Ryokans give you this but without requiring an enormous amount of space.

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Japanese Futons

One of the most significant differences in the accommodation inside Ryokans compared to a normal hotel is the bedding. Instead of a traditional bed frame and box spring, Ryokans feature sleeping futons. But these are not the western-style futons you might imagine (those fold-down couches we all had from Ikea in college). These futons are fold-up mattresses covered in a thick duvet. The tatami mats on the floor provide a slightly softer base for the futon. So it doesn’t feel like sleeping on a hard floor. I was pleasantly surprised by how comfortable they were! The reason for the futons is that they are so pliable and can be stored during the day to increase your living space. This is not just something which is done in a Ryokan but all over Japan, where homes are very small.

Yukatas

Inside your room or picked up when you enter the hotel, you will find your yukata. Yukatas are called “summer kimonos” or “casual kimonos” as they are made of a lighter fabric than traditional ceremonial kimonos. Yukatas were initially designed in indigo and white fabrics to distinguish them from kimonos. Wearing your yukata around the Ryokan is another way of shifting your mindset into a more relaxed state of being.

If you don’t know how to put on your yukata, look around the room as there is usually a little handout that will instruct how to put it on. Otherwise, you can always ask the staff to help out. One of the most important things to remember is to make sure you belt the yukata left side over right. This is important as the reverse symbolizes death in Buddhism. We loved wearing our Yukatas around and I even ended up buying my own to wear when I got back to Canada!

Onsen

The onsite onsen is one of the best parts of your stay in a Ryokan. At least it was for me! An ‘Onsen‘ is the Japanese word for hot spring. Since Japan is a volcanically active country, there are thousands of natural onsens all over the place. Many Ryokans have taken advantage of this and created bathing pools around the natural springs. It is thought that the minerals in the volcanic waters provide many different health benefits from muscle relaxation to help with insomnia and stress. But for me, the best part is a foot soak after a long day of walking around a new city.

Onsen Etiquette

Depending on the type of Ryokan you’re staying at, there may be shared/public onsens. Or you might be lucky enough to have an onsen right in your room! But there are also Ryokans with onsite onsens that allow you to book a time to experience a private bathing session. If you have never been to an onsen before, there are a few essential things to keep in mind.

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Public Onsens have a Male and Female Area

When you arrive at a public Ryokan onsen, you will take off your shoes and enter one of two different change rooms. These change rooms lead into the male and females areas of the onsen. They are generally marked in Japanese, so you can always ask your hotel attendant for help if they are not marked in English.

You MUST be Naked

Once you enter the change room, grab yourself a locker. Usually, your hotel will provide you with a towel to dry yourself after you’re finished. Put your drying towel, yukata and all the rest of your belonging and clothes inside. And yes, I mean all of your clothes! No bathing suits allowed. You enter the onsen wearing nothing but your birthday suit. The one item you are allowed to bring into the onsen area is a small “modest towel”.

Although going into a public bath naked might seem pretty intimidating, it’s just one of those things you’ll get used to. Everyone else is naked too. It’s not only you. Public bathing is so common in Japan, so the locals aren’t phased. Don’t worry about feeling like people are looking awkwardly at you – they aren’t.

Modesty Towel

The one item you have with you to help with those initial nerves is your modesty towel. This small hand towel is meant to hold over your private parts for an extra little bit of coverage if you’re shy. This is never to be dipped right into the water, and you must place it on your head to keep it out of the water once you get into the water.

Take a Shower First

Before getting into the onsen, you must take a shower. But these are not western-style stand-up showers. Instead, you’ll usually find a long bar of low shower heads with little stool beside them. You will sit on the chair and wash with the shampoo and body wash provided. No need to bring anything in yourself, it will all be there ready for you.

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No Phones in Public Onsens

This might not need to be said, but since public onsens are, well, public, there are no phones allowed inside. This is to ensure no one is taking photos. Take this time without your devices to unwind and disconnect. Private onsens on the other hand are fair game since you are there in private. But I would still advise you to take a few photos only and spend the majority of your time in peace and quiet.

Tattoos

About 50% of public onsens do not allow you to come into the baths if you have tattoos. While this is an antiquated rule, for many traditional onsens, it still comes into effect. If you opt for a private onsen, you won’t need to worry about this rule. I always advise you ask your hotel operator before booking to ensure you won’t be disappointed when you arrive.

Other rules

• Never put your head under the water as this will contaminate the water
• Don’t wash your body inside the onsen; that is what the shower area is for
• If you have long hair, put it up in a high pony-tail to keep it out of the water
• The onsen isn’t for swimming and definitely no diving!
• Keep your voice to a low volume as an onsen’s experience is supposed to be a relaxing one

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Kaiseki-ryori

In most Ryokans, dinner service will be included in your stay. Get dressed in your yukata and prepare yourself for a lovely meal. The meal will either be served in your room or in the communal dining area depending on the type of Ryokan. Public dining rooms are obviously less expensive than in-room service meals. When you check-in, the host will ask you what time you would like to eat. There are usually two or three meal times ranging from 6 pm to 8 pm. 

Kaiseki-ryori is the name of the meal served at the Ryokan. Kaiseki-ryori is considered to be the height of Japanese cuisine and fine dining. It is a multi-course meal, served on elegant lacquered and ceramic dishes. Each plate is laid out like a painting. The design of the platting is meant to enhance the taste of the food. The food on offer will be seasonal and local to the area. It is intended to connect your experience in the Ryokan to the natural environment around you. Common elements of the Kaiseki-ryori include miso soup, hot pot, fresh fish and, of course, tea and sake.

Breakfast

Many Ryokans also offer a traditional Japanese breakfast. If you have the option of adding this to your stay, I would implore you to opt for it. If you’ve never had a traditional breakfast before, this is your chance. A traditional Japanese breakfast includes seasoned rice, miso soup, grilled fish, tofu and eggs.

While Ryokans are a splurge, without a doubt, it’s important to remember all the different things included in your stay, as laid out in this post. Ryokans really are more than the sum of their parts. They are places that put your body and spirit into a different mindset, like a hard reset to the stress and exhaustion that travelling can bring. It was one of my favourite parts of my first trip to Japan, and I hope you find it is the same for you as well. Let me know in the comments where you are hoping to stay in a Ryokan and what you are most looking forward to doing!

Happy Travels, Adventurers!

The post Everything you Need to Know about Ryokans in Japan, A Guide to Your First Stay first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

Table Of Contents

1. #1. Spend a Night in a Space Age Capsule Hotels
2. #2. Explore a Dream World in TeamLab Planet Tokyo
3. #3. Get Spooked By Godzilla
4. #4. Explore the Strange World of Love Hotels
5. #5. Act like a Kid Again at Tokyo DisneySea
6. #6. Explore the Walled City inside Kawasaki Warehouse
7. #7. Get Grossed out at the Parasite Museum
8. #8. Try Cream Puffs too Cute to Eat!
9. #9. Experience Cuteness Overload at a Maid Cafe
10. #10. Dine at Ramen Restaurant from around Japan in Yokohama
11. #11. Dine on Sushi around a Conveyor Belt
12. #12. Cheer, Scream and Sing-a-long at a Baseball Game
13. #13. See a Professional Sumo Match
14. #14. Catch some Kabuki
15. #15. Fish for your Dinner
16. #16. Soak in the Healing Waters at Onsen

#1. Spend a Night in a Space Age Capsule Hotels

Capsule Hotels are one of the most unique forms of accommodation and are only available in Japan (although it’s slowly starting to catch on elsewhere). Capsule hotels are not just a super cool thing to experience but also a great way to save money! They’re a great place to stay the first night you arrive since you’re bound to crash hard, and there’s no point shelling out for a luxury hotel you won’t even notice until you’ve had a good night’s sleep.

Capsule hotels are found all over the city and are great since they’re most often in fantastic locations outside train stations. Capsule hotels are divided into male and female floors where you’ll get a single capsule to sleep inside. While the capsule is little more than a person-shaped rectangular cube, most are more spacious than you’d imagine and come with your own personal light, tv, bedding, place to plug in all your devices and even air conditioning. It feels like sleeping in a spaceship in your own little pod. Outside your capsule, you can use all the amenities in the hotel. They are complete with spotless showers, places to sit and eat (always filled with lots of vending machines), and some even have massage chair floors where you can relax and read.

#2. Explore a Dream World in TeamLab Planet Tokyo

The TeamLab Planets exhibition in Tokyo is a truly unique and immersive experience that you won’t find anywhere else. This digital art museum features a wide range of interactive installations that use cutting-edge technology to create mesmerizing displays of light, sound, and movement.

One of the standout exhibits is the Forest of Lamps, which is a room filled with thousands of glowing lanterns that respond to your movements. As you walk through the room, the lanterns change color and shape, creating an ethereal and dreamlike atmosphere. Another must-see exhibit is the Crystal World, a cavern-like space filled with crystal-like structures that seem to grow and change as you move through the space. The installation uses light and sound to create an immersive and sensory experience that is truly unlike anything else.

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#3. Get Spooked By Godzilla

In amongst the neon jungle, which is Shinjuku, keep your eyes peeled for a monster poking his head out. Don’t think it’s the jet lag that is indeed Godzilla himself towering above you. Hotel Gracery plays host to the beast, and if you want to see what it’s like to be in Godzilla’s head, you can visit the Bonjour cafe on the 8th floor. This cafe has a small menu but does offer a great view from outside Godzilla’s head across Shinjuku. Godzilla is such an iconic part of Japanese entertainment, so seeing him in the “flesh” here in Shinjuku makes you feel like you’re in Japan!

#4. Explore the Strange World of Love Hotels

If capsule hotels seem a little claustrophobic, you can check out a “Love Hotel.” These Love Hotels aren’t for the faint of heart, but you will get a once-in-a-lifetime experience. All over Tokyo and other parts of Japan, you’ll see these types of hotels on various corners of the city. The rooms are rented by the hour and per night, so you can imagine what kind of clientele they are geared towards…But does that mean you can’t go as a tourist to fulfil your curiosity? Absolutely not! These hotels aren’t as seedy as you might imagine. They’re actually pretty incredible or at least incredibly weird.

Each room is themed for a different interest; some have rotating beds, others are covered floor to ceiling in Hello Kitty paraphernalia, and others even have heart-shaped jacuzzis! These hotel rooms are so cutesy because around 90% of love hotels in Japan are designed by women. Being developed by women means that they are more likely to come inside than be weirded out by a sketchy-looking hotel. Also, for this reason, the hotels are always super clean and extremely private. Some check-in desks are entirely run by touch screens, so you don’t even need to interact with a real human on your way in! Definitely a unique experience.

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#5. Act like a Kid Again at Tokyo DisneySea

One of my favourite parts of Tokyo is DisneySea, and while visiting what might on paper feel like an American theme park seems odd on a list of uniquely JAPANESE adventures, DisneySea is unlike any of its North American counterparts. The influence of Japan’s creative culture made this park so wondrous. It is famously known as the best theme park in the world. Unlike Disneyland, which has been replicated almost brick for brick worldwide (even in Japan), DisneySea is one of a kind. Here you’ll be able to ride the most immersive and original rides in all of Disney and visit the seven ports inspired by fictional and historical seaside locations. You can visit Ariel’s Kingdom or Aladdin’s Castle. DisneySea is also home to Duffy the Bear, a character you’ll only find here in Tokyo!

#6. Explore the Walled City inside Kawasaki Warehouse

I am a HUGE fan of the arcades in Japan! I have sunk way more money than I’m proud of trying to win a stuffed Pokemon character. All arcades in Japan are worth checking out for a great night out, but none are as weird as Kawasaki Warehouse. The warehouse arcade is located about 30 minutes outside the city but is well worth the trip. Inside what looks like an old, rusted-over building, you’ll find the almost picture-perfect recreation of the gritty streets of Kowloon.

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Kowloon is the famous crime-filled, walled city of China that has been the inspiration for apocalyptic environments for years. Spread out over multiple floors, this place, made to look like a crumbling city, is actually an arcade. Set amongst the rotting walls, dirty clothing lines, and shady retail signage are real arcade games you can play in this haunting setting. Don’t worry; nothing is dirty; it’s all for the show! Every inch of this place is themed and decorated to ensure an eerier atmosphere permeates the entire place; even the men’s bathroom is made to look covered in filth (although the women’s washroom was spared this treatment).

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#7. Get Grossed out at the Parasite Museum

Located in the suburb of Meguro, you’ll find one of the weirdest museums in the world. In this museum, you’ll be introduced to the world of parasites. And trust me, after visiting, you’ll wonder how many of them might be living inside you right now! The museum is the only one of its kind, and a few minutes into the exhibits, you might be able to imagine why. The museum has collected over 45,000 parasites, now displayed in jars along the walls. They even have an 8.8-meter-long tapeworm which proves the resiliency of these parasites. While this might not be for everyone, the uniqueness of the subject matter is something to be amazed at. And for those of you with a strong stomach, you might be pretty surprised by these creatures. I found it interesting and enjoyed the curator’s dedication to the subjects.

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#8. Try Cream Puffs too Cute to Eat!

If you’re looking for something a little more fun and carefree, go to this dreamy little cafe which serves up some of the most delicious and, perhaps, too-good-to-eat pastries. If you’re a fan of anime, specifically Studio Ghibli, visiting Shirohige’s Cream Puff Factory is almost a requirement for your trip to Japan.

This cafe is run by a Ghibli family member, and her creations are therefore deemed “official” Ghibli products. Walking up to the shop is like stepping into a Ghibli film; the street looks almost picture-perfect, just like the animes. Each cream puff is made to look like the popular character “Totoro” and is filled with either custard, chocolate or caramel banana. You can make reservations here, but if you feel like the reservations system online is too complicated without being able to speak or read Japanese, you can also show up when they open and get in line to nab one of these delicious treats.

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#9. Experience Cuteness Overload at a Maid Cafe

As soon as you get into Tokyo and start walking around the streets at night, you’ll immediately see dozens of maids on the road handing out flyers. If you’ve never heard of a ‘Maid Cafe‘ before, this sight might be a little strange and shocking. But the reality of these Maid Cafes is a lot less lurid than you might expect. In Japan, Maid Cafes are popular restaurants where the waitresses dress up in cute maid costumes and act as “servants” to their customers or “masters.”

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Although these cafes were originally introduced for the amusement of the men in Japan, these days, they have become more of a tourist attraction. And, therefore, a little less salacious. Inside you’ll be doted on by a given maid. You’ll also eat food in adorable shapes and designs, learn cutesy songs and even take a kawaii (cute) picture with your maid as a commemorative souvenir. It’s weird, it’s cute, and it’s worth checking out for a unique experience.

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#10. Dine at Ramen Restaurant from around Japan in Yokohama

Although it’s dubbed a “museum”, the experience you’ll have at the Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum is more in line with a trip to Epcot. The museum is almost like visiting a food-themed amusement park which sends you back in time in tastes and visuals. The Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum was first opened in 1994 as a one-stop shop for people to sample all different varieties of Ramen. The interior of the museum is designed to replicate the streets of Japan in 1958. There are nine different restaurants open throughout the two lower floors serving up all sorts of different variations of ramen. Each one specializes in a regional flavour profile. Like travelling all across the country in one day!

#11. Dine on Sushi around a Conveyor Belt

While conveyor belt sushi restaurants have started popping up in other locations around the world, they got their start here in Japan, and if you’ve never visited one before, then this is the best place to start! Conveyor belt sushi restaurants are all over Tokyo, and you can’t go wrong with them. If there is a lineup outside the door, that is always a good sign that it’s going to be delicious! Lines move quickly since diners usually don’t spend an enormous amount of time here, so don’t be afraid of waiting.

Once you get inside, you’ll be seated around an actual moving conveyor belt. On the belt are dozens of plates with pieces of sushi on top. Each of the plates is a different colour and/or pattern. Those colours or patterns denote the cost of the sushi. Just grab what you want and keep the empty plates. The plates are used to calculate your bill at the end of the meal. The sushi is cheap and delicious, and you’ll often be more enticed into trying something new. It’s hard not to be curious when you see it right there in front of you.

#12. Cheer, Scream and Sing-a-long at a Baseball Game

Are you thinking of baseball? C’mon, now we have that in North America too! That’s not something we want to do when we’re halfway across the world. Well, trust me, this isn’t baseball as you know it. I mean, sure, yes, the rules are the same. And in essence, the game itself is pretty similar, but the experience surrounding the game is worth your time! Baseball games in Japan are like a huge party. Everyone sings a different anthem when each player comes to the plate. There are designated cheering sections where the entire group will stand, dance and cheer.

Not only are there special themed foods you can buy in the stadium, but you’re also allowed to bring any food or drink you want. That’s right, you can even bring your own alcohol! Before you arrive at the stadium, dozens of street vendors sell freshly cooked yakisoba, sushi and more to take inside with you! It’s so much fun, and you don’t need to be able to speak Japanese to be able to follow the action!

#13. See a Professional Sumo Match

Sumo wrestling is Japan’s national sport. And if you’re visiting Tokyo during the season these matches take place, it’s your duty as a traveller to make your way to see a game. Sumo is one of those things that seem not to exist outside Japan. Its traditional roots and cultural importance are so strong that it never took off anywhere else. The matches are surprisingly exciting. And the crowd is so passionate that you’ll cheer with them even if you’ve never seen a game before or understand the rules. Tickets sometimes sell out during busy times of the year, so it’s worth buying tickets in advance.

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#14. Catch some Kabuki

Another very traditional thing to do in Japan is to see a Kabuki performance. Kabuki is a classical Japanese dance-drama known for its stylized performance and elaborate make-up. Despite the show being in Japanese, much like Opera, you can get a program where there will usually be a translation in English. That way you can understand a bit of the plot. But the expressions and performances are so strong and evocative that you’ll be able to follow along without it.

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#15. Fish for your Dinner

Walking into Zauo restaurant, you’ll think you’ve stepped onto a fishing boat. A giant wooden ship is installed over the top of dozens of tanks of water. Guests stand excitedly with a fishing rod on the boat’s edge, ready to nab their dinner. That’s right, here at Zauo, you eat what you catch! Be warned that if you catch something, you must eat it; there’s no throwing it back. But that’s half the fun! Just don’t come in with a specific meal in mind, be open to trying something new. Once you catch your fish, you get to choose how it’s cooked and seasoned. Then it will be served at your table. The cost is probably a little inflated compared to a typical seafood restaurant, but the novelty value is real. And it’s definitely a memorable meal.

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#16. Soak in the Healing Waters at Onsen

Odaiba Oedo Onsen combines a traditional Japanese onsen spa and a journey back in time. Designed to look like the Edo period, this onsen is the perfect place to unwind. Especially after your long flight! An ‘onsen’ is a Japanese hot spring and bathing facility. Here, men and women are divided into two separate areas, where they can soak in a giant, naturally heated hot spring completely in the nude. No bathing suits allowed (hence the gender separation.) You can use these small towels provided to cover your private parts. But the atmosphere is so relaxed, and no one is looking, so it feels totally normal, and you’d be surprised how freeing it feels!

The Odaiba Oedo Onsen also has a zen-like garden where you’ll find a long foot bath. To use the outdoor foot bath and gardens, you’ll put on your traditional Yukata. This part of the spa is clothed, so both men and women can use it together. Onsens are such a special part of Japanese culture. And while it seems intimidating, it’s immensely calming and a must-do for anyone visiting Japan.

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*A Note about Animal Cafes

While I will readily admit that animal cafes look UBER adorable and are found on many lists of “things to do in Japan,” I see them as wildly conflicting. On my first trip to Japan, I visited an owl cafe in Asakusa, which was well-reviewed as to how they treated their animals, but after visiting, I felt awful. I had gone for a weird experience, and while it was that, I just felt so sad for the animals.

Even though I did see how loved they were by the carers, owls are nocturnal, and to have them out during the day and trapped inside felt so cruel. Various other types of animal cafes suffer from the same kind of thing, and while I know, they feel like something you NEED to do while in Japan, I would ask you to heavily consider the welfare of the animals before you think about spending time there. You can get so many weird experiences in Japan that shouldn’t be your primary destination.

Whether you’re a fan of art, culture, or technology, there is something for everyone in this vibrant and eclectic city. From visiting the ancient temples and shrines to experiencing the latest advancements in technology, these 16 unique and amazing experiences are a must-see for anyone visiting Tokyo. So why not start planning your trip today and experience all that this incredible city has to offer?

The post 16 Unique and Amazing Experiences You Can’t-Miss in Tokyo first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.