Japan is a country that seems to have it all - bustling cities, serene landscapes, a rich history, and a vibrant culture. But sometimes, the most memorable experiences can be found off the beaten path, in the quieter corners that are waiting to be discovered.
Tram-surfing in Hiroshima
Hiroshima is a city that is steeped in history, but it's also a place where you can find unique and quirky experiences. One of these is tram-surfing, a popular pastime among locals and visitors alike. For just ¥160 (£1.10), you can hop on a tram and ride it to the end of the line and back, taking in the sights and sounds of the city as you go. The trams in Hiroshima are a relic of a bygone era, and they offer a glimpse into the city's past, as well as a chance to mingle with the locals.
Practical details:
- Price: ¥160 (£1.10) for a one-way ticket
- Trams run from 6am to 11pm
- The main tram stop is in the city centre, near the Peace Memorial Park
- The journey to the end of the line and back takes approximately 1 hour
The secret ramen shop in Sapporo
Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, is known for its delicious ramen, but there's one shop that's a well-kept secret among locals. It's called "Sumire", and it's located in a nondescript building in the Susukino district. The shop is small and unassuming, but the ramen is anything but. Sumire's signature dish is the "Miso Ramen", a hearty bowl of noodles in a rich, savoury broth that will warm you up on even the coldest of Hokkaido nights. The shop is only open until 8pm, so make sure you get there early to secure a spot at the counter.
Practical details:
- Price: ¥850 (£6) for a bowl of Miso Ramen
- Sumire is open from 11am to 8pm, Monday to Saturday
- It's located in the Susukino district, a short walk from the Susukino Subway Station
- The shop only has a few seats, so be prepared to wait during peak hours
The abandoned theme park in Yokohama
Yokohama, just a short train ride from Tokyo, is a city of contrasts. It's home to the largest Chinatown in Japan, as well as the Cosmoworld, a bustling theme park that overlooks the harbour. But just a few miles away, there's another theme park that has been left to decay. It's called "Spa Resort Hawaiians", and it was once a thriving water park and hotel complex. Today, it's a hauntingly beautiful place, where nature has reclaimed the once-vibrant buildings and pools. It's not for the faint-hearted, but it's a unique and fascinating glimpse into Japan's past.
Practical details:
- Spa Resort Hawaiians is located in the Miura Peninsula, about an hour's train ride from Yokohama
- The site is open to the public, but there are no facilities or services available
- Visitors are advised to exercise caution when exploring the site, as there may be hazards such as broken glass or unstable structures
What flights LON to TYO actually cost
Prices below are live fares from Aviasales. We may earn a commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Cheapest dates to fly
| Departure | Price | Airline | Stops | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 Sept 2026 | €595 | CZ | 1 stop | Check |
| 10 May 2027 | €602 | CA | 1 stop | Check |
| 16 Feb 2027 | €607 | CZ | 1 stop | Check |
| 27 Nov 2026 | €614 | CA | 1 stop | Check |
| 1 Sept 2026 | €636 | CZ | 1 stop | Check |
Live fares, checked 16 Aug 2026. Prices change daily.
Booking in Tokyo: where to look
We may earn a commission from the links below, at no extra cost to you. We only list services we would use ourselves.
- Tiqets — Instant mobile tickets for museums and landmarks
- Klook — Attraction tickets and passes, strong in Asia
- KKday — Local experiences and day tours
- Welcome Pickups — Fixed-price airport transfer, driver waits for you
The hidden tea house in Kyoto
Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan, is a city that is steeped in tradition. And nowhere is this more evident than in its tea houses. But there's one tea house that's a little harder to find than the others. It's called "Ichiriki Chaya", and it's located in a quiet corner of the Gion district. The tea house has been in operation for over 300 years, and it's a place where you can experience the true essence of Japanese tea ceremony. The tea master will guide you through every step of the process, from the careful preparation of the tea to the precise way it's served and drunk. It's a slow, meditative experience that will leave you feeling calm and centered.
Practical details:
- Price: ¥3,000 (£21) per person for a tea ceremony experience
- Ichiriki Chaya is open from 2pm to 10pm, Tuesday to Sunday
- It's located in the Gion district, a short walk from the Gion-Shijo Station
- Reservations are recommended, as the tea house has limited seating
Japan is a country that is full of surprises, and these quieter corners are just a few of the many treasures that await you. Whether you're a seasoned traveller or a first-time visitor, there's always something new to discover in this fascinating country.
