Best Things to Do in Japan When You’re Travelling with Your Barkada

Japan remains one of the most exciting travel destinations for Filipinos, especially when exploring with your barkada (group of friends). From quirky cafés in Tokyo to mouthwatering street food in Osaka, and the timeless cultural beauty of Kyoto, there’s something for every type of traveller in your barkada.

Here’s a complete guide on the best things to do in Japan with your friends, plus where to stay comfortably in each city.

Tokyo: Go café-hopping, explore pop culture shops, and visit theme parks

Tokyo never fails to entertain, with anime, kawaii finds, and quirky cafés, its pop culture scene will keep your barkada buzzing.

Pokémon Café (Nihonbashi)

Pokemon Cafe | Official Website

Step into kawaii nostalgia at the Pokémon Café in Nihonbashi, a must-visit for fans. Enjoy themed dishes like Pikachu curry and Eevee lattes in a bright, friendly setting that is perfect for catching up with your barkada.

TripzillaPH Tip: Book online in advance, as it fills up fast!

Animate (Ikebukuro)

Animate | Official Facebook Account

Anime fans in your barkada will love Animate in Ikebukuro, Japan’s biggest anime store packed with merch, manga, and collectables. It’s the perfect spot to bond and geek out together, so make sure to set aside plenty of time!

Donguri Republic (Multiple branches)

Donguri Republic | Kanpai Japan Official Website

Studio Ghibli fans will love Donguri Republic, where you’ll find plushies, collectables, and cute kitchenware from Totoro, Spirited Away, and more. Its whimsical vibe makes it a fun barkada stop and a great place for unique pasalubong!

Sanrio Puroland (Tama City)

Sanrio Puroland | Official Website

Sanrio Puroland in Tama City is an indoor theme park featuring your favourite Sanrio characters like Hello Kitty and Gudetama. With rides, shows, parades, and interactive exhibits, it’s a fun, nostalgic spot for fans of all ages and groups who love kawaii culture.

The park’s Sanrio Rainbow World Restaurant offers colourful, character-themed meals and playful decor. It’s the perfect place to relax, enjoy cute dishes, and snap fun photos while soaking up the Sanrio vibe.

Where to stay: MIMARU Tokyo Ikebukuro

Located near major train lines, MIMARU Tokyo Ikebukuro and MIMARU Tokyo Kinshicho are a great base for exploring Tokyo’s quirky and colourful side, with easy access to Nihombashi’s Pokémon Centre, Animate Ikebukuro, and Akihabara for anime and character fans. The spacious, apartment-style rooms are perfect for barkada groups wanting comfort and togetherness. For fans, the Pokémon-themed rooms, complete with a giant Snorlax and Poké Ball décor, add a fun, immersive twist to your Tokyo adventure.

MIMARU suits Filipino barkadas who love pop culture and playful spaces. Its group-friendly rooms and proximity to trendy cafés and shops make it easy to relax and recharge after a fun day out.

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Osaka: Go on a food trip with must-try eats and visit street food spots

Osaka, “Japan’s Kitchen,” is perfect for food-loving barkadas. From Dotonbori to Shinsekai, every corner serves delicious local treats to share and enjoy together.

Takoyaki

Takoyaki | Siraphol via Canva Pro

No visit to Osaka is complete without takoyaki, crispy outside, gooey inside octopus balls topped with savoury sauce and bonito flakes. Try them at Takoyaki Juhachiban in Dotonbori, where you can enjoy this classic snack with your barkada amid the vibrant street scene.

Okonomiyaki

Okonomiyaki | Sintaro via Canva Pro

Okonomiyaki is a savoury pancake packed with cabbage, meat, and seafood, topped with mayo and sweet sauce. It is best shared hot off the grill at Chibo or Kiji in Dotonbori, where you can cook it yourself or watch it being made. This dish is perfect for a casual dinner with your barkada after sightseeing.

Kushikatsu

Kushikatsu | Hoshino Resorts Official Website

The next dish you must try is Kushikatsu! These deep-fried skewers of meat, seafood, and veggies are dipped once in a shared sauce bowl. Find this crispy comfort food at Kushikatsu Daruma in Shinsekai, a nostalgic spot perfect for hearty eats and good vibes.

Negiyaki

Negiyaki | Osaka Official Website

If you want a lighter, greener twist on okonomiyaki, try negiyaki, packed with scallions and a savoury soy-based sauce. Head to Yamamoto in Umeda, a popular spot for this tasty dish. It’s perfect for lunch before exploring nearby malls and arcades.

Horumon Yaki (Grilled Offal)

Horumon Yaki | くろふね via Wikimedia Commons

For a bold, authentic taste of Osaka, try horumon yaki, grilled beef or pork offal seasoned and cooked over an open grill. This local favourite is best enjoyed at izakayas in Tenma or Namba, where the lively atmosphere and cold drinks make it perfect for sharing with your barkada.

Where to stay: MIMARU Osaka Namba North

Centrally located in Namba, MIMARU Osaka Namba North is just a short walk from Dotonbori, Kuromon Ichiba Market, and Shinsekai. Its large, well-designed rooms are perfect for groups, ensuring everyone stays comfortably together. With kitchenettes and dining areas, you can even whip up some local dishes together.

For Filipino barkadas who bond over food, MIMARU Osaka Namba North is the ultimate food trip base; cosy, convenient, and made for sharing Japan’s culinary delights.

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Discover Kyoto’s cultural and historical charms and must-visit souvenir shopping districts

Kyoto’s charm lies in its rich tradition and history. It’s the ideal destination for travellers seeking to experience Japan’s cultural heart and timeless beauty.

Gion District

Hanamikoji Street, Gion District | 663highland via Wikimedia Commons

Discover the enchanting Gion District by wandering through its historic streets lined with traditional wooden machiya houses, quaint tea shops, and charming cafes. Enjoy the serene ambience as you explore art galleries, boutique stores, and cosy eateries perfect for a relaxing day out with your barkada. Don’t forget to sample some local sweets or matcha treats along the way!

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Red Torii Tunnel, Fushimi Inari Taisha | Japan Photos via Canva Pro

Famous for its thousands of red torii gates, this shrine offers a scenic hike up Mount Inari. It’s perfect for barkadas who love the outdoors and photo ops. Along the way, spot shrines and fox statues.

TripzillaPH Tip: Start early to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and avoid crowds.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest | Official Website

Walk through towering bamboo stalks at Arashiyama, a peaceful and photogenic escape from the city. You can also explore the nearby Tenryu-ji Temple, take a riverboat ride, or sample local street food. It’s a perfect day trip full of culture and stunning scenery.

Teramachi & Shinkyogoku Shopping Arcades

Teramachi Kyogoku Shopping District | Zenkyoen Official Website

Teramachi and Shinkyogoku Arcades blend tradition and trend, offering handcrafted souvenirs, fashion, and quirky finds. Perfect for last-minute shopping or unique Kyoto treasures, these lively arcades are full of charm and energy.

Shinkyogoku Shopping Arcades | Japan Travel Official Website

Your barkada can split up to explore at your own pace, then regroup to share street snacks like soy milk doughnuts and matcha treats. With so much to see and taste, these arcades promise a fun day filled with laughter and plenty of pasalubong.

Nishiki Market

Nishiki Market | Japan Guide Official Website

Nishiki Market is Kyoto’s lively food street, perfect for sampling local snacks and buying unique, edible souvenirs. From matcha treats to handcrafted chopsticks, it offers a taste of traditional Japan in every stall.

Where to stay: MIMARU Kyoto Kawaramachi Gojo

Located near top spots like Gion and Nishiki Market, MIMARU Kyoto Kawaramachi Gojo makes exploring culture easy and fun. Its spacious, modern apartment-style rooms are perfect for groups of friends. With kitchenettes, laundry and easy access to Osaka in just an hour, it’s perfect for long stays, day trips, and chill nights with your barkada.

MIMARU SUITES Kyoto suits trips focused on tradition and local finds. Filipino groups will love its peaceful vibe, central location, and roomy spaces for sharing stories and snacks.

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Make your Japan trip with your barkada unforgettable

Whether you're hopping between quirky cafés in Tokyo, feasting on Osaka's unbeatable street food, or soaking up Kyoto's timeless culture, travelling Japan with your barkada guarantees unforgettable memories. Each city brings its unique flavour, and with the comfort of group-friendly MIMARU hotels, you’ll have a cosy home base to rest and recharge.

So pack your bags, bring your friends, and get ready to explore the best of Japan!

Brought to you by APARTMENT HOTEL MIMARU