Throughout my study abroad experience in Japan, I learned that study abroad isn’t always the highlight reel we imagine before we leave home. Some days are filled with excitement and energy, while others are exhausting, confusing, or even a little lonely. What made my time in Japan so special was that no matter how I felt, there was always an experience that offered me exactly what I needed in the moment. That being said, here are seven experiences to try in Japan, depending on your mood.

To start off, if you need a break from the busy streets of Tokyo and you’re feeling like you need a peaceful moment, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is the perfect place to slow down. Walking through the garden in spring, when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, is incredibly calming. The soft pink flowers, quiet paths, and wide open spaces make it easy to take a deep breath and just be present. You can take a walk through the garden, stop for a little picnic, or just sit with a book and enjoy the cherry blossoms. It’s one of Japan’s biggest gardens, so there’s plenty of space to wander, recharge, and spend some quiet time outdoors.

If you’re craving some nature but are feeling a little more active, hiking Mount Takao in Hachiōji is a perfect way to spend a few hours. There are several different trails to choose from, varying from around 2 to 7 miles. Each trail is beautiful, surrounded by trees and fresh air. At the base of the mountain, there are many shops to enjoy soba noodles and relax in an onsen after the hike.

Feeling hungry? If you’re in the mood for something lively and delicious, you have to check out the Tsukiji Fish Market. The market is chaotic, colorful, and full of life, with hundreds of vendors selling tasty food. Exploring the market is such a memorable way to experience Japanese culture and feel the energy of Tokyo.

The Hakone Open Air Museum is the perfect place if you’re feeling creative. Walking among sculptures set within the beautiful gardens is both inspiring and calming. Large-scale outdoor art like this can only truly be experienced in person. The museum also has a permanent Pablo Picasso collection and a 60-foot-tall tower made entirely of stained glass. Whether you’re wandering the outdoor sculptures or exploring the indoor exhibits, it’s a great place to spark inspiration and creativity.

If you’re looking for a little excitement, a boat ride on Odaiba Bay is the perfect activity. You get to enjoy beautiful views and see the city from a completely different perspective. Most rides include a live performance of traditional Japanese music, and seeing Tokyo lit up at night from the water is unforgettable. This experience was refreshing, exciting, and a stunning way to see the city in a new light.

Fuji-Q Highland has to be my top recommendation if you’re seeking a thrill. If you want some adventure and an adrenaline rush, this amusement park is the perfect place. It’s home to some of the world’s tallest and steepest roller coasters, and it also offers incredible views of Mount Fuji. The combination of thrilling rides and stunning scenery makes a trip to Fuji-Q completely worth it. It’s the perfect way to step out of your comfort zone and create unforgettable memories.

If you’re feeling mindful or looking for a slower experience, a traditional tea ceremony in Shibuya is a great option. You’ll learn about the careful movements, the attention to detail, and the history behind the practice, and get to experience tea-making firsthand. Attending a tea ceremony is a wonderful way to connect with Japanese culture and take a moment to slow down.

Overall, no matter how you’re feeling, Japan has an experience to match. While abroad, you go through a ton of different emotions, and it can be easy to feel pressured to always be on the go, doing the most high-energy thing possible. But part of the fun is finding something that feels right in the moment. Whether you’re looking for calm, adventure, or just some good food, there’s always something waiting for you. The most important thing I learned while abroad is to embrace your experience for what it is and be present in it. It’s easy to compare your experience to others or get caught up in ideas of what being abroad “should” be. Trust and challenge yourself, try new things, and be fully present in your experience.

 

 

Cameryn Krauss

Major: Studio Art

Minor: Law and Liberal Arts

Spring 2024

Tokyo, Japan