Top Nature Spots in Japan

If you're planning to buy souvenirs, consider getting them at the end of your visit. I spent more than I planned at the start and had to cut back later!

I suggest arriving around 9 AM sharp. We got there exactly then and it was a game changer. We hit a few popular rides before the crowds rolled in.

Make sure to bring a portable charger for your phone. I wasn't thinking and my battery died while trying to take pics. It’s a total bummer when you can’t capture the fun!

Don't miss the night parade! It was magical, but I think people start lining up at least an hour beforehand for a good spot.

I suggest bringing your own snacks and drinks. The in-house cafes are pricey, and I found it hard to justify the costs when I could just picnic outside!

Timing is everything! I recommend going early around 9 AM when the aquarium opens. It was way less crowded, and I got to enjoy the exhibits without bumping shoulders with other visitors.

If you're a photography buff go for the big tank around 4 PM. The lighting gets amazing then and the colors pop like crazy. I wished I had known that beforehand!

My advice is to check out the Kuroshio Sea tank first! It's the biggest and by far the coolest - save the smaller exhibits for later when you're winding down. It was a great starting point.

I suggest checking the weather beforehand. It can change fast at Fuji, and a clear day makes a huge difference for views and pictures.

Wear good hiking shoes! I learned the hard way that flip-flops are a big no if you want to enjoy the trails without blisters

Start your hike early, like around 6 AM, to avoid the crowds and catch the beautiful sunrise from the trails. Trust me, it's breathtaking!

If you're planning to take photos, go for the early morning light. I messed up and went in the midday sun; it totally washed out my pics. Early birds get the best shots!

I recommend checking the seasonal highlights before you go. When I visited in spring, I missed the cherry blossoms by a week—bummed me out! Timing is everything!

My advice is to bring a packed lunch! The food in the area can be pricey, but having a little picnic on the grass is super nice, especially with the Sakura blossoms if you're lucky!

Don't buy souvenirs at the first shop you see near the castle. They are usually way overpriced. I found better stuff at stores further away from the castle entrance.

Be sure to wear comfy shoes! The park is bigger than it looks, and you'll be doing a lot of walking. I regretted wearing flip-flops as my feet hurt by the end.

If you can, visit in the early morning around 8 AM. The park is much quieter then, and you can take great photos without tons of people in the background. I loved it!

I recommend downloading an offline map before you go. Cell service got a bit spotty at times and I didn’t want to get lost while exploring the park

If you have time, check out the walk between the hot springs at night... It's quiet and beautiful, but I regret not bringing a light jacket – it got chilly

My advice is to bring your own towels and toiletries. The rentals can be a bit pricey at some ryokans, and you might feel more comfortable with your own stuff.