Best Places To Visit in Japan for First-Time Travellers

Dreaming of sushi, cherry blossoms and neon arcades? Then, you’re in for an unforgettable adventure 🗾🍣⛩️ From buzzing cities to peaceful shrines, Japan is packed with bucket list moments, especially for first-timers. It really offers everything a traveller could dream of and more! So you’re wondering, where are the best places to visit in Japan? Well, keep on reading because you’re about to find out…

Tokyo

Konichiwa Tokyo! It’s an absolute must-visit for any first-time traveller in Japan. Start your adventure here and expect to fall in love with everything Japanese. Think neon-lit streets, traditional orange shrines and steamy bowls of ramen. Tokyo is the perfect introduction to Japanese culture for travellers. And this is just the start of your adventure… it only gets better and better.

Tokyo Highlights:

Sensoji Temple 🎎

Step back in time as you wander through this ancient Buddhist temple. Why is it so unmissable? Well, it’s the oldest temple in Tokyo! Legend has it that a long time ago, two fishermen (who were also brothers) discovered a golden statue of the goddess Kannon in Tokyo’s Sumida River. After placing it back in the river multiple times, the statue always found a way back to them, so the Sensoji temple was built to enshrine it. See for yourself, it really is one of the most incredible temples of Japan.

Akigabara 🕹️

Step into this paradise for gamers! Yes, that includes you, Pokémon and Super Mario fans. Down every glowing street are quirky shops, arcades, and cafés dedicated to anime characters and video games - you'd better be ready to hit the dance mats! Oh, and don’t miss out on its endless anime and manga comic book stores.

Cuisine 🍱

There are a million foods to try in Tokyo! As one of the Best Countries in the World for Amazing Food, Japanese cuisine really is a feast for the senses, with poke bowls, bento boxes and sushi rolls on the menu. And who could forget the ramen, miso soup and shabu-shabu (Japanese hot pot)? It’s a foodie heaven for first-timers in Japan! Take a trip down Omoide Yokocho lane for unbelievable street food and Tsukiji Fish Market for the freshest sushi you can imagine!

On day 3 of our Journey Through Japan tour, you’ll join a sushi masterclass with the pros. Learn to roll seaweed into uramaki and slice fish for delicious nigiri. Yum!

Shibuya Crossing 🚦

The famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing is one of the busiest intersections in the world and a must-see on your first trip to Tokyo. So make sure to join the sea of 3,000 people crossing at one time! Then once you’ve crossed it, turn around and cross it again! You’ve got to make the most of this iconic spot, right?

Harajuku 🍭

When in Tokyo, follow the scent of sweet bubble gum and you’ll stumble across the area of Harajuku (near Shibuya train station). It’s the home of Japanese pop culture. Everything here is so kawaii (cute). Don’t forget to indulge your taste buds in sweet crepes, doughnuts and bubble tea! Plus, the Japanese love a Kit Kat, so look out for them in endless flavours, even matcha!

Yoyogi Park 🌸

Looking for somewhere to escape the hustle and bustle? Yoyogi Park is surrounded by beautiful nature. And when cherry blossom season comes around, it’s even better! With the trees covered in delicate pink petals, Yoyogi doesn’t get much better than this. Head there with a delicious bento box for the perfect Japanese-style picnic.  

Meiji Jingu 🏮

Right next door to Yoyogi Park is Tokyo’s largest shrine, Meiji Jingu! You can’t miss its enormous torii gates welcoming you to its sacred ground. Make sure to bow when you pass through them to show respect to the shrine that was dedicated to Emperor and Empress Meiji. 

Hakone

It’s time to swap the city for some nature. Think stunning mountain views, serene lakes and natural hot springs. And, who could forget the one-and-only Mount Fuji? There’s no better place to visit in Japan to soak up Japan’s nature.

Hakone Highlights:

Mount Fuji 🗻

Spot the largest active volcano in Japan, measuring 3,776 metres tall. Believe us, your jaw will drop when you see it for the first time. You might even get lucky and spot it from the train! If it's not the sheer height that will impress you the most, it’s the natural beauty that will. No wonder it’s featured in Japan’s most iconic piece of artwork, The Great Wave. Remember to fill up your camera roll with the beautiful views!

Hakone Ropeway 🚠

Enjoy 24 minutes of breathtaking scenery! Hop aboard Japan’s Hakone Ropeway, the second-longest cable car in the world and soar above panoramic views of Mount Fuji and Lake Ashi. It’s the ultimate way for travellers to explore Hakone.

Nagano

Next stop, Nagano. Make your way to the highest city in all of Japan. Nagano is located in the Japanese Alps. In the winter months, you can expect a sprinkle of snow, transforming its already beautiful scenery into a winter wonderland. In summer, it makes a great destination for first-timers in Japan seeking an authentic look into Japanese life. It’s rated as one of the most livable places in Japan.

Nagano Highlights: 

Snow Monkeys 🐒

High in the mountains, you can spot adorable snow monkeys bathing in Nagano’s famous hot springs - yep, you read that right! Just like us, these cheeky mammals love a pamper sesh. When they’re not taking a soak, you might spot them hunting in the trees or teaching their young how to play in the snow.

Shiga Kogen National Park ⛰️

Calling all skiers and snowboarders, this 2000m snow resort is one of the largest in Japan. You won’t be bored with the runs here. In the summer, it also makes a great place to visit in Japan for first-time travellers to go hiking.

Origami 🪭

Your first time visiting Nagano is all about embracing Japanese culture, so make sure not to miss out on some origami making. This Japanese form of art involves folding paper into creative sculptures like flowers, birds and other animals. Plus, it makes an authentic souvenir. 

Explore Nagano, spot snow monkeys and learn about the ancient art of origami on day 4 of of Ultimate Japan group tour.

Kyoto

Without a doubt, Kyoto is one of the best places to visit in Japan for first-timers. It’s the perfect mix of rich tradition and modern charm. And of course, it’s home to the iconic Fushimi-Inari, which, by the way, you absolutely have to visit!

Kyoto Highlights:

Fushimi-Inari ⛩️

Ah, the iconic Fushimi-Inari! No trip to Kyoto is complete without visiting here. This world-famous shrine is an absolute must-visit. The shrine is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice and prosperity. Snap a pic passing through its vibrant orange torii gates. 

Gion District 🎎

Immerse yourself in Kyoto’s traditional streets, filled with wooden machiya houses and rich cultural heritage. It's home to the geisha, who are highly trained performing artists. These women dedicate years to mastering skills such as dance, music, and tea ceremonies. They are usually dressed in silk kimonos.

Samurai lesson 🗡️

It’s time to channel your inner warrior in a Samurai class. Learn this iconic martial art from a Samurai master who will teach you how to wield your sword and slice through rolled bamboo! Do you think you’ve got what it takes? Top tip: Cut at a slight angle to slice through the bamboo shoot without any splints!

Meet the Samurai master and have a go yourself on day 12 of our Japan Intro group trip. 

Golden Pavilion 🤩

Looking for Zen? You’ve just found it. The Golden Pavilion is one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks, made from gold leaf! No wonder it shimmers so perfectly off the pond and gardens that surround it. It’s the ideal spot to visit in Japan for first-timers to soak up the serenity of Kyoto.

Nara 🦌

Wanna see the cutest deer on the planet? 🥹 Then, make sure to add a day trip to Nara to your itinerary! Spend the day exploring ancient temples and meeting the local friendly deer, famous for their polite bowing. As you wander through the park, bow to them and they’ll likely bow back, especially if you feed them a cracker from the shop at the park.

Stop by Nara Park and meet the deer on a Japan group tour.

Arashiyama

Arashiyama is magical. Just think of Bamboo forests and friendly monkeys, which pretty much sums up the best of Arashiyama. Its natural beauty is so alluring to travellers in Japan.

Arashoyama Highlights:

Bamboo Forest 🎍

Simply enchanting. This bamboo forest is known for its towering bamboo shoots. The emerald landscapes make it one of the best places to visit in Japan for first-timers. Just picture a winding path guiding you step by step through incredible nature. You don’t want to miss its pure magic.

Monkey Park Iwatayama 🐒

Aka Monkey Mountain. Say konichiwa to the cheeky residents and hold on to your snacks, there’s about 120 Japanese macaques roaming around! As well as Nagano, it’s one of the best places to spot these furry creatures.

Osaka

It’s fun, it’s energetic, and it’s one of the best cities in Japan! This is Osaka. Known for its bright neon lights, it’s the kind of city that instantly makes first-time travellers feel welcome.

Osaka Highlights:

Osaka Castle 🏯

Looking for somewhere fascinating yet magical at the same time? You’ve just found it! This beautiful castle (aka the one and only Osaka Castle) was built in the 1580s and is one of the largest castles in all of Japan. Discover its history through holograms and 3D pictures at its unique museum.

Shopping & Entertaiment 🛍️

You can easily spend a couple of days shopping here. Head to Shinsaibashi-suji shopping street for 600m of retail therapy (Japanese style, of course). Think authentic shops, restaurants and food stalls that’ll make you lose track of time. By evening, head to the Dotonbori district for neon-lit bars and clubs. And don’t forget to snap a pic by the iconic billboard of the Glico Man! 

Hiroshima

Lastly, your final place to visit as a first-time traveller in Japan is Hiroshima. It's a city with so much history and shouldn't be missed off your Japan itinerary. Despite its devastating past, Hiroshima has rebuilt itself as a symbol of peace and resilience.

Hiroshima Highlights:

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park 🏙️

Learn the history of the location where the first atomic bomb was used during World War II. During your visit, you'll walk through the ruins caused by this act, and stop off at memorials and the Flame of Peace, which has been burning since August 1964. It will continue to burn until nuclear weapons no longer exist.

Miyajima Island ⛩️ 

Visit Miyajima Island and spot the Itsukushima Shrine floating in the water, you can’t miss its bright orange gates standing tall. You can even board a traditional Rokai Bune (Roaring Boat) to get close up and pass through the gates. Spend a day here enjoying temple visits and hiking trails.

Our Japan travel tips:

Learn a few Japanese phrases: A simple ‘Konnichiwa’ (ko-n-nichi-wa/hello) and ‘Arigatō’ (ah-ree-gah-toh/thank you) will go a long way. 

Be extra polite: If there’s one country known for its politeness, it’s Japan! Make sure to queue in lines, keep your voice down on public transport and avoid eating whilst walking.

Slurp your noodles: This isn’t just a travel tip; this is a must-do to show your appreciation for the delicious food. And believe us, it really is delicious!

Learn when to bow: Bowing to someone in Japan is a sign of respect. It’s a common way to express appreciation, respect, or gratitude.

Always carry some cash: Cash is king! Although most places will take card, some smaller authentic restaurants may only accept cash. 

Make use of public transport: Japan has some of the most efficient train networks in the world! From the bullet train to the romance car to the subway, getting around Japan is easy. You can use Google Maps or Japan Travel by NAVITIME to help you find the right journey for your trip.

Don’t overpack: Japan has loads of souvenir shops! Save space in your backpack to take home something special, like customised chopsticks with your name in Japanese. Cool right?

Prebook: Things get booked up quickly! Make sure you pre-book all the must-dos for first-timers in Japan, including the TikTok viral pancake restaurant ‘A Happy Pancake’. 

Ask your group leader for advice: On our Japan tours, you’ll have an expert group leader to advise you of cultural customs, fun facts and more.

Check for the latest travel updates: Always check the FCDO for travel advice before your trip.

Enjoy: You’re about to have the adventure of your dreams, so enjoy every second of making lifelong friends and unforgettable memories in Japan.

Feeling Inspired?

Japan is truly a destination like no other! If you’re asking, “Is Japan good for first-time travellers?” the answer is absolutely yes! From its bustling cities to its peaceful temples, Japan has something for everyone. Check out our 2 Weeks in Japan Itineraries or take a look at our Japan group trips 👈🤩