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Locals as well as regular visitors are aware of this fact Japan—a remarkably varied country—doesn’t reveal itself all at once. The nation unfolds like a narrative, full of contradictions and hidden wonders. You’ve probably heard of the cherry blossomsAll the best things to do in TokyoIt’s not just the bullet train that has magic, it is also the simple things in life. The affordable snacks at convenience stores, the soothing hum in a rural hot spring, or the pure pleasure of losing yourself in a neon-lit arcade are all examples of the magic of Japan. These are the top things to do in Japan, whether it’s your very first visit or your fifth.
1. Visit a neon arcade to get lost in nostalgia
Step into an arcade filled with neon lights, eight-bit music, and the buzz of competition. Battle your friends in Mario Kart, then hunt down the perfect purikura (photo booth)—Japan’s arcades offer a riot of fun and an unforgettable sensory overload. Bonus points for getting stuck in the UFO catcher game (crane machine) longer than you would like to admit.
2. Grab a bite at the Konbini
Japan’s convenience stores (kon) are not your average store. The variety of snacks available is endless. From onigiri, a rice ball neatly packaged in a paper bag, to seaweed-flavored potato chips. What’s my go-to snack? The “famichiki”, boneless fried chicken, from FamilyMart and 7-Eleven. Also, the healthier options at Natural Lawson. You can see why the kombini appeals to all. Japanese locals.
