1. Mediate at a Zen Garden
This is the best excursion to take if you are really trying to embrace the Japanese culture and dive in spiritually. The cost of this is free but while at the Temple, you will have the opportunity to donate coins. The monks will walk you through all the symbolisms of the natural elements and help guide you through your meditation. You can use this time to absorb the calmness around and connect with your spirit. While you meditate, you will be able to soak up all the elements surrounding you such as sand, water, and greenery. These meditations typically last about an hour but you are able to do it as much as you like. I strongly recommend this to anybody trying to step out of their comfort zone and try something new.
2. Get your fortune told at a temple
This is another free excursion you must try when you are visiting Japan. Once you enter the temple, you are directed to insert as many coins as you would like to the temple. This is called Omikuji and it involves wishing for a fortune while pulling a stick from a container. Once you have the number from the stick, you will then have the fortune teller tell you if it is a fortune or a curse and what does it mean. It can go from love life, work, education, and desires. This is an amazing to do in Japan if you are looking for excitement and want to dive in to the spirituality of Japan.
3. Rent a Karaoke Booth
This is a great activity to do if you are looking for something fun to do with your friends. Karaoke actually originated in Japan so why not try it in the place it was discovered? You are able to rent a booth or a public area where you can sing and drink with everybody. The prices range from .86 cent to 3.45 a person and depending on how long you want to rent the booth. You also have access to not only Japanese songs but they provide a wide variety of music from every culture. This is the best place to enjoy time with your friends and have fun.
4. Go to a Cherry Blossom Viewing
This experience is known as the Hanami and only occurs during the spring. This is another free excursion however does cost money to prepare and enjoy the festivities. The Cherry Blossom viewing has been a tradition in Japan for many years and it involves enjoying the beauty of the followers. People also use this time be with their friends and family and host picnics and drink. This is a must in Japan if you are deciding to travel during the spring. This viewing lasts from January to the end of February and will make your experience in Japan ten times better.
5. Visit the Hiroshima Museum
This is an amazing activity to do if you are wanting to learn about the history of Japan. This museum documents the bombing of Hiroshima and pays respect to the ones that are lost. You will be able to see belongings of the victims, photos, and other artifacts that show the effects of this tragedy. I recommend this for anyone who is interested and are wanting to learn more about this and aftermath that occurred. The price for adults begins at $1.73 and includes discounts for students and children. This will not only show you the history of Japan but will also give yourself time to pay your respects and learn about how the country was able to get through this.
6. Ride the Bullet Train
This is a great activity for anyone trying to get a quick look of Japan as a whole. This trains travels at about 320 k/h and will take you through the entire country. You will be able to see everything from cites, farm life, and urban life. The prices varies from 3-7 dollars depending on where you want to go and what part of the train you want to sit at. The bullet train offers many options for passengers including private and public suites. This is great for anybody that wants to sit back and relax and enjoy the scenery.
7. Ride the Don Quixote Ferris Wheel
This excursion is for my thrill seekers who are trying bring excitement on their Japan trip. This ride is about fifteen minutes and are able to overlook the entire canal. Once you get to the top, you will actually be able to see the tallest building in Japan, Tsutenkaku Tower. This activity will give you the opportunity to get a great look at Japan and their nightlife and also ride a funky ride. Underneath the ferris wheel you will find restaurants, souvenir shops, and a waiting room for any guests that need to rest. The cost starts at $5.18 a guest but that does not include all the cool souvenir you may get once you get off the ride. This is a must try if you are visiting Japan and want to try something new and exciting.
8. Watch a Sumo Wrestling Match
Everyone needs to see this once in their life, but does come with some difficulties to accomplish. Sumo Tournaments are only held six times a year and are distributed across the entire country. Once you decide this is something you want to do, you must find the closest tournament to you and ensure you get tickets as early as you can. Tickets sell out very quickly since this is such a popular sport in this country. Even with the slight difficulties, I still believe this is an amazing excursion to witness. Prices start at $32 a ticket but does not include food, drinks, or any souvenirs you may want to buy during or after the match.
9. Try the Mario Go-Cart
This is the best activity for anyone who enjoys thrill and wants to try something new with their friends. You are given costumes of any Mario character you want and get a choice of which course you want to try. The prices start at $60 for the short course and $73 for longer/popular course. This activity will allow you to race with your friends on the streets of Japan in Mario Go-carts and I don't know what sounds better than that. If you like adventure and have a great group of friends, take advantage of this experience.
10. Visit Disney Sea
This is not only a great spot for families but for anyone who enjoys sea life. While this is the most expensive activity, it is worth it to visit. This park is different from their neighboring ones because they allow this to be enjoyed for adults as well. They offer alcoholic beverages and many rides that are only catered to the older audiences. This park offers seven different themes throughout their park and wider variety of restaurant. This is a must if you are traveling Japan, because you will not find Disney Sea in any other country.
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