Things To Do In...
JAPAN

Travelling through Japan with The Road to Timbuktu — from cherry blossom parks and ancient temples to Osaka Castle, Kyoto’s red torii gates, and Mount Fuji views, showcasing the best things to do in Japan for mature solo travellers.

Things to Do in Japan: Sushi, Samurai & Slight Confusion

Japan is where ancient temples meet vending machines that sell everything but common sense. One moment you’re marvelling at Kyoto’s tranquillity, the next you’re trapped in Shibuya Crossing wondering if you’ve joined a flash mob. From cherry blossoms and bullet trains to karaoke nights you’ll regret in the morning, Japan’s got it all — culture, chaos, and convenience that’ll make your own country look lazy. Whether you’re chasing neon lights or zen gardens, The Road to Timbuktu has rounded up the best things to do in Japan — minus the confusing toilets.

Some of the links on this page are affiliate links — meaning if you book something through them, I might earn a small commission (enough for a sushi roll, if I’m lucky). It doesn’t cost you a yen extra, but it does help keep The Road to Timbuktu running, caffeinated, and plotting the next questionable adventure. Cheers for supporting the chaos!

Top-Rated Things To Do In...

Things To Do In...
KYOTO

Things to do in Kyoto — traditional street lined with wooden houses and autumn leaves, featuring a woman in kimono walking toward a red torii gate. Featured by The Road to Timbuktu for travellers discovering Kyoto’s temples, culture, and timeless beauty.

Looking for things to do in Kyoto? Prepare to be overwhelmed by beauty — and tourists with tripods. Wander through ancient temples, pretend to understand Zen gardens, and take 400 photos of cherry blossoms that all look the same (but you’ll post them anyway). Between tea ceremonies, geisha sightings, and the endless sound of camera shutters, Kyoto’s where peace and chaos coexist beautifully — usually on the same street.

Things To Do In...
TOKYO

Things to do in Tokyo — evening skyline featuring Tokyo Tower illuminated at dusk with cherry blossoms and Mount Fuji in the distance. Featured by The Road to Timbuktu for travellers discovering Tokyo’s top attractions, culture, and city experiences

Searching for things to do in Tokyo? Where do you even start — sushi, skyscrapers, or sensory overload? One minute you’re praying at a 1,000-year-old shrine, the next you’re buying a Pikachu doughnut from a vending machine. From neon nights in Shinjuku to quiet moments that last five seconds, Tokyo is culture, chaos, and caffeine rolled into one dazzling blur. Bring comfy shoes and low expectations for peace and quiet.

Things To Do In...
HIROSHIMA

Things to do in Hiroshima — peaceful sunset over the Atomic Bomb Dome and Motoyasu River framed by cherry blossoms in full bloom. Featured by The Road to Timbuktu for travellers exploring Hiroshima’s history, beauty, and resilience.

Wondering about things to do in Hiroshima? It’s a city that balances history and hope with quiet grace — and surprisingly good okonomiyaki. Visit the Peace Memorial Park, take the world’s most reflective walk, then hop a ferry to Miyajima for that iconic floating torii gate photo you’ll totally frame later. Hiroshima’s not about ticking boxes; it’s about remembering, rebuilding, and finding beauty where you least expect it — usually with chopsticks in hand.

Things To Do In...
SAPPORO

Curious about things to do in Sapporo? Imagine Japan’s cool older cousin — the one who brews beer, builds snow sculptures, and actually enjoys winter. Sip Sapporo straight from the source, eat enough ramen to qualify for residency, and marvel at how the locals treat blizzards like mild inconveniences. Whether you’re skiing, soaking, or sipping, Sapporo proves cold weather can be downright brilliant — with the right amount of alcohol and thermal layers.

Things To Do In...
FUKUOKA

Evening view of Fukuoka’s cherry blossom-lined canal with boats passing and riverside food stalls glowing at sunset — capturing the relaxed charm of southern Japan for The Road to Timbuktu’s Things to Do in Fukuoka guide.

Wondering about things to do in Fukuoka? Think ramen, shopping, and vibes smoother than a jazz playlist. Slurp noodles at a yatai stall, stroll along the river pretending you’re in a music video, then shop till your suitcase files for divorce. It’s laid-back, friendly, and just chaotic enough to remind you you’re still in Japan. Perfect for anyone who wants city life — but with fewer crowds and better broth.

Things To Do In...
NAGASAKI

Scenic view over Nagasaki at sunset, framed by cherry blossoms, historic churches, and the harbour — highlighting the city’s beauty and history for The Road to Timbuktu’s Things to Do in Nagasaki page

Looking for things to do in Nagasaki? It’s a city that wears its history with quiet strength and unexpected charm. Stroll through Peace Park, take the cable car for views so good they almost feel illegal, and wander the old Dutch quarter pretending you know architectural terms. Between solemn reflection and seaside beauty, Nagasaki somehow makes “melancholy but magical” look effortless — and the food’s not bad either.

Things To Do In...
OSAKA

Vibrant dusk scene along Osaka’s Dotonbori Canal with neon lights, sightseeing boats, and Osaka Castle in the distance — showcasing the city’s energy for The Road to Timbuktu’s Things to Do in Osaka feature.

Curious about things to do in Osaka? Bring your appetite — this city eats first and asks questions never. From takoyaki stands to neon chaos in Dotonbori, Osaka’s all about loud flavours and louder energy. Visit Osaka Castle, shout your way through markets, and try not to get lost in the underground shopping maze (you will). It’s Japan’s answer to “fun but slightly unhinged” — and that’s exactly why you’ll love it.

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🌐 Helpful Travel Advisory & Visa Links

Whether you’re deciphering Japan’s visa requirements, panicking over paperwork, or wondering if that passport photo meets exactly the right pixel ratio (it probably doesn’t), this section’s here to help. Below are official Japanese government links for travel advisories and visa applications — no sketchy third-party “express” sites, promise. Ideal for solo travellers over 50 who prefer their adventures stress-free and their immigration officers smiling.

(Because nothing ruins a trip to Tokyo faster than discovering you filled in the wrong form — twice.)

Travel Advice for Most English-Speaking Countries Including EU

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Visa Information for Asian Countries