Where to Go in Japan for First Timers: Best 12 Places

Lively Tokyo with its vibrant nightlife, ancient Kyoto with a variety of ways to sample the elegance of Japan, and cozy Osaka for your total relaxation and fun - if you are also wondering about Japan's best travel places for first-timers, the 3 cities above are usually the most popular choices. For more inspiration on how to make the most of your first trip to Japan, below are the top travel places selected based on our guests and their preferences.

Golden Triangle for First-Timers

Tokyo: Metropolis Bustling With Modern & Tradition

Epitomizing Japan's blend of modern and traditional styles, as one of your landing cities, Tokyo is not only a top choice for your first visit but also an ideal gateway to the country.

Stroll through bustling commercial districts like Shinjuku, perfect for vibrant nightlife illuminated by dazzling neon lights, or shop in Ginza, home to a wide array of luxury brands. Savor delicious sushi at a local restaurant or enjoy a unique traditional Japanese drama at the Kabuki theatre.

Joining the locals in visiting the sacred Senso-ji Temple to seek good fortune is also a must for first-timers, or basking in the beauty of spring at the Imperial Palace's east gardens, surrounded by enchanting cherry blossoms.

Kyoto: Capture Authentic Japan From Nature to Buildings

Steeped in profound traditions, from iconic pagodas to cultural arts, Kyoto is an ideal destination for first-timers to experience the classic side of Japan.

Numerous shrines and temples showcase Japan's rich history, beautifully harmonizing nature, and ancient architecture. Visit Kinkaku-ji, where the golden pavilion reflects perfectly on the lake, framed by vibrant fall foliage against a clear sky. Explore the vermilion torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine, which form a stunning tunnel through the lush green forest.

Joining a Tea Ceremony With Geisha & Maiko is also a must-do when visiting Kyoto, with more ancient tea houses you can find along Gion's stone path. Just imagine your leisure afternoon tea in Japanese style - freshly made matcha served by a geisha lady, accompanied by traditional music and dance against the tranquil rock garden. If you prefer, the kimono dressing experience or the maiko makeup is also available for your immersive soak.

Kinkaku-ji Temple, Kyoto

Osaka: Relaxing Bay With Entertainment & Food

If you choose Tokyo as your first stop, Osaka is an ideal final destination for your journey to Japan. Representing the western region of Japan, this charming city is known for its laid-back atmosphere, mouth-watering local delicacies, and a perfect setting for unwinding.

Picture yourself enjoying a leisurely city tour, savoring street food like takoyaki (octopus balls) while browsing for souvenirs, or taking a peaceful evening stroll along the neon-lit Dotonbori Canal, a picturesque way to bid farewell to your first-time journey.

With Osaka's excellent transportation links, you can also make it your starting point. Dive into the city's lively vibe, have a blast at Universal Studios Japan, or visit the iconic Osaka Castle to capture memorable photos of your adventure.

Neighbors for Your Tokyo & Osaka Drop-By

Mt. Fuji: Sacred Mountain & Icon of Japan

A perfect day trip during your Tokyo sightseeing is Mt. Fuji, just a 1.5-hour drive from the city. This serene Lake Kawaguchi beautifully reflects the snow-capped Fuji Mountain in its calm waters, making it an ideal spot to capture the iconic upside-down Fuji. You can also capture the sacred mountain from afar, such as at Arakurayama Sengen Park, a good photo spot to frame Mt. Fuji as well as the Chureito Pagoda.

A leisurely boat ride is a highly recommended way to admire the majestic mountain up close. If your schedule allows, camping by the lake is also a great option, especially during the fall foliage season. The golden sunlight and crisp, leaf-covered shores frame Mt. Fuji in a breathtakingly vibrant hue, creating an unforgettable scene for your first-time journey.

For an up-close experience, consider visiting during summer to hike Mount Fuji yourself. Reaching the summit to witness the sunrise above a sea of clouds is an unforgettable reward for your efforts.

Hakone: Onsen Bath With Natural Hot Springs

Adding Hakone to your first-time Japan itinerary is a fantastic choice. Just a 1.5-hour drive from Tokyo, it offers the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in natural hot springs and stunning scenery.

Enjoy a boat trip across the lush, green surroundings of Lake Ashi, where the southeast bank provides a breathtaking view of Mt. Fuji. Alternatively, take a cable car ride to Owakudani to witness the steam rising from its volcanic vents and try the famous black eggs boiled in the hot springs.

Finish your day with a rejuvenating soak in Hakone onsen town, known for its variety of mineral-rich waters and their soothing, healing properties to melt away any fatigue.

Nara: Forest City With Deer & Hidden Temples

If you're seeking a peaceful and charming experience on your first trip to Japan, Nara is the perfect place to linger. Located just an hour from Osaka, this tranquil city offers a serene escape into nature and history.

In April, Nara transforms into a stunning paradise of cherry blossoms. Mt. Yoshino bursts into bloom, with delicate pink flowers covering the mountain from its base to the summit. Nara Park, adorned with cherry trees, creates a picturesque setting with its solemn temples and shrines, while friendly deer roam freely, eagerly awaiting special deer crackers from visitors, making an idyllic retreat perfect for families.

Nara Park

Kobe: Gourmet Spot From Beef to Rice Wine

With an unexpectedly quick 20-minute Shinkansen ride from Osaka, Kobe makes an ideal stop on your first trip to Japan, whether you're seeking an after-dinner excursion or a meal featuring authentic, fresh Kobe beef.

From classic steaks prepared by skilled chefs to shabu-shabu hot pot served with raw egg, you can savor this tender and richly flavored beef in your preferred style.

Pair your meal with a cup of sake or indulge in a pudding topped with fresh cream and local fruits. Take a moment to slow down, enjoy the culinary delights, and take in the beautiful night view, immersing yourself in Kobe's relaxing atmosphere.

First-Time Travel Places to the North

Sendai: Matsuri Celebrations & Samurai History

For further exploration of northern Japan, Sendai is a top choice for your first journey. Located in the heart of the Tohoku Region, it's just a 1.5-hour Shinkansen ride from Tokyo, making it perfect for experiencing the Tanabata Festival in August.

Known as the "City of Trees" for its lush, tree-lined streets, Sendai also boasts well-preserved historical sites that tell the story of the samurai who founded the city, including the famous Date Masamune. His iconic black armor is said to have inspired the design of characters in the Star Wars series.

Sapporo: Summer Escape & Endless Winter Fun

Famous for its grand celebrations during the Sapporo Snow Festival, Sapporo in northern Hokkaido is undoubtedly a winter paradise, with its stunning powder snow for skiing adventures, as well as dramatic snow statues and intricate ice sculptures, offering an unforgettable experience during your first visit.

Beyond its winter wonderland, Sapporo is also a fantastic summer destination. From the late-blooming cherry blossoms that last until early May to the lively summer night festivals filled with beer, barbecue, and jingisukan (grilled mutton), Sapporo offers a wealth of attractions to keep you entertained year-round.

First-Time Travel Places to the South

Hiroshima: Find the Floating Shrine & History Behind

Head south from Osaka for about 1.5 hours to Hiroshima, a city reborn with a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for history enthusiasts looking to extend their first visit to Japan.

Explore the reconstructed Hiroshima Castle and its peaceful Shukkeien Garden, or visit the Peace Memorial Park, home to the iconic A-Bomb Dome, a poignant reminder of World War II. Don't miss a drop-by to the nearby Itsukushima Shrine, renowned for its stunning "floating" torii gate - especially captivating during high tide.

Fukuoka: Street Food Hunting at Yatai Stalls

Located about 2.5 hours by Shinkansen from Osaka, Fukuoka is perfect for an afternoon visit, especially as the evening sets in and the vibrant night streets come alive with yatai (street food stalls).

Highly regarded for its food culture, Fukuoka is another gourmet place where you can sample various street foods at Yatai, hopping from stall to stall to satisfy your hunger or join the locals to share food and stories at the open-air seats.

Yatai Food Stall in Fukuoka

Okinawa: Beach Holiday With Sunshine & Whale

Okinawa, often referred to as the "Hawaii of Japan," is a perfect destination for a first-time beach experience. With its warm climate and breathtaking natural beauty, it offers a relaxing holiday filled with colorful coral reefs, subtropical jungles, and a rich cultural heritage.

You can explore the grand palaces and reconstructed castles of the ancient kingdom, swim in crystal-clear waters, or simply unwind on the white sand beaches while enjoying the stunning coastline.

What's more, there is no need to worry about the long journey to the southernmost island - there are plenty of direct flights from Tokyo or Osaka, making it easy to reach Okinawa.

Add Special Experiences to Your First Japan Tour

Consider adding a few special highlights to your first Japan tour to make it even more memorable. Below are some experiences our travelers have loved most. If anything catches your eye, or if you have other ideas in mind, feel free to contact us and customize an itinerary around you.

Enjoy the Spring Cherry Blossoms

For your spring journey, hanami (cherry blossom viewing) is one of the top things to do in Japan, as the whole country is transformed into a pink wonderland. The peak flowering season, typically from late March to early April, is perfect for lively hanami celebrations. Or enjoy the serene beauty of early blossoms in the south or late blooms in the north for a more tranquil experience.

Top hanami spots include Ueno Park and Shinjuku Gyoen in Tokyo or Mt. Yoshino in Nara. Relish a leisurely sakura picnic or take a scenic cruise along cherry-lined riverbanks. For a unique touch, don't miss a night stroll under illuminated cherry blossoms, with falling petals adding to the enchantment.

Capture the Grand Fireworks Display

The fireworks show is an icon of summer in Japan, usually accompanied by local events, stalls for street food, decorations, and games, as well as locals strolling in yukata. Join the grand fireworks festival, bustling with the high tension of summer, and enjoy the "night flowers" that light up the sky.

Put on a yukata with your favorite pattern, and wander through the bustling streets before the main fireworks display. Pick up a handcrafted fox mask or decorative hairpin, join in traditional games like goldfish scooping or shooting air balloons, and savor classic festival foods.

Stroll With Stunning Fall Foliage

Autumn foliage is one of Japan's most popular seasonal attractions. Northern Japan usually changes color earlier, with many mountain areas displaying vivid autumn colors from September to October. Tokyo and Kyoto typically reach peak foliage from late November to early December, when you can admire red maple leaves and golden ginkgo trees around temples, traditional gardens, and tree-lined streets. For a closer connection with nature, head to Lake Kawaguchi for views of Mount Fuji framed by autumn colors, explore the mountain trails around Nikko, or enjoy a gentle hike in Kyoto's Arashiyama.

Seeing Japan at its autumn best requires choosing the right destinations for your travel dates. Check our Japan Fall Foliage Map or contact Odynovo directly to have our travel specialists customize an autumn itinerary around your schedule and fall foliage interests.

Hike Through the Wooden Hill

With its mountainous landscapes and lush forests, Japan offers an abundance of excellent parks and hiking trails, making a leisurely hike one of the best ways to experience the country's natural beauty.

Explore the historic Nakasendo Trail, lined with traditional wooden buildings and cozy tea houses perfect for a short break, or venture into the mystical Kumano Kodo, winding through dense forests and sacred shrines, culminating in a breathtaking waterfall as the reward for your pilgrimage journey.

For the best experience, plan your hike during sunny days in spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). These seasons offer milder temperatures ideal for outdoor activities, along with stunning seasonal scenery to enhance your hiking adventure.

Soak in Nature Hot Springs (Onsen)

Hot spring bathing is a must-try activity in Japan and also a highlight of Japanese culture. For breathtaking views, consider an onsen hotel around Lake Kawaguchi, where you can relax in warm waters while admiring the majestic Mt. Fuji in the distance.

Alternatively, explore renowned hot spring towns like Hakone, Nozawa, or Ginzan, each offering a variety of mineral-rich waters to try, ranging from orange-hued baths to creamy white "milky soup", all designed to soothe and revitalize your body.

A yukata stroll around the town is another enjoyable part of the experience. Discover local delicacies and snacks to savor before dinner, or use the outing as a refreshing interlude before your next soak.

Unwind Winter Fun With Ice & Powder Snow

Skiing is a must-try experience in winter Japan, renowned for its exceptional powder snow that is dry and light, making it ideal for a perfect ski adventure with excellent trails and relaxing hot springs.

Hokkaido is home to some of the most popular ski resorts, including the world-famous Niseko United. Here, you can enjoy "Japow" and seamless ski-in and ski-out experiences. If you visit in February, don't miss the Sapporo Snow Festival for some surprising ice and snow sculptures.

For another winter wonderland, head to Nagano near Tokyo, where Hakuba Valley awaits. This ski destination offers more challenging tree trails for adventurous skiers, where you can also stop by Snow Monkey Park to see the adorable red-faced snow monkeys relaxing in steaming hot springs.

Night Sightseeing With Neo & Music

Japan's vibrant nightlife is also a must-experience. Start your night with a visit to Tokyo Tower just before sunset, an ideal spot to watch the city transform as it lights up with dazzling neon signs.

Afterward, drop by a cozy izakaya for some sweet sake under warm amber lights, or indulge in a high-end restaurant with sweeping views of the glittering cityscape and bustling traffic below.

If you're up for more adventure, dive into Japan's energetic nightlife hubs like Shibuya or Shinjuku. Go bar hopping under the glittering city lights, sing your heart out at karaoke, or immerse yourself in the lively entertainment of Kabukicho.

For families and anime enthusiasts, there are also exciting samurai and ninja experiences with the true katana (Japanese sword), or diving into the cozy atmosphere in Akihabara, where you can take a glimpse of the otaku culture with maids, anime characters, underground lives, manga, and video games.

Enjoy the Sumo Competition

For some traditional but also exciting experiences in Japan, add sumo wrestling to your to-do list. Apart from witnessing their thrilling muscle-to-muscle competition, a friendly match with a retired wrestler is not impossible - warm up your body and step into the sand ring! Also, enjoy the traditional sumo meal, Chankonabe (sumo hot pot), after the competition.

Do as Samurai & Ninja Do

Samurai and ninja, one of the most mysterious and charming sides of Japan. For a basic try, you can pick 1 or 2 samurai and ninja museums to learn some stories behind the history, and join the lessons to wave a samurai sword or throw a ninja shuriken. Some traditional kendo gyms also offer further fighting techniques with swords, and do not miss the Ninja Restaurant for a special themed dinner.

What to Know before Your First Trip to Japan

How Many Days to Stay in Japan

A 10-day trip is usually long enough to experience many of Japan's highlights at a relaxed pace, taking in the best and classic scenery through the golden triangle of Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.

However, with its varied landscapes and culture, Japan is a charming country where you could easily spend more time. You can extend your adventure by 1 or 2 days to explore a new city, or try a week-long journey to see more of Tokyo and take a day trip to the surrounding area.

Average Cost for a Japan Trip

Travel costs in Japan can be relatively expensive by Asian standards, but compared to Europe and Australia, it is still a moderate destination. Labor costs still account for the largest proportion, but prices for food and rooms are affordable, and there are various options to make your journey a budget or luxury trip.

Private Japan tour: about 350 to 500$ per day per person (15% for a 4-star room, 10% for attraction and activity tickets, 40% for private car & 30% for private guide)

Note: prices may double or triple during the peak travel season (cherry blossom season from late March to early April, Golden Week from late April to early May, Obon festival in mid-August)

How to Get to & Get Around Japan

Landing in Tokyo

For visitors from the US, Haneda (HND) is now a more popular choice due to the increasing flight service of US airlines, while Narita (NRT) remains the best option for most international travelers.

Airport	Narita International Airport (NRT)	Haneda Airport (HND)
Distance to central Tokyo	47 miles (about a 1-hour drive)	13 miles (about a 30-minute car or train ride)
Flights	more international routes	domestic & long-haul to and from the US
Best for	more lounge selections, budget flights	quick sightseeing, business travel
Places to go	Asakusa, Ueno, Tohoku	Shibuya, Shinjuku, Yokohama

Landing in Osaka

Kansai International Airport (KIX) in Osaka is also recommended if you want to explore the western part of the country first, including Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, Hiroshima, and the Kyushu and Shikoku regions. It takes between 50 and 60 minutes by car or train to reach downtown Osaka.

How to Get Around Japan

To travel around Japan, you can take advantage of the railway system most of the time. But for short-distance journeys, like day trips from Tokyo to Mt. Fuji or Nikko, a private car drive can be more convenient.

• Shinkansen: for quick city-to-city transit (Tokyo to Osaka, Osaka to Hiroshima)
• Limited express & rapid trains: attraction-to-attraction city sightseeing (or leave it to your private driver)

Other Tips You Should Know

• It is a visa-free country for most citizens in Europe & America (yet still check the visa policy before planning).
• Widespread Wi-Fi is available, but an eSIM card (for unlocked phones) and a pocket Wi-Fi rental (for locked phones) are recommended for mobile data.
• Credit cards are widely accepted, yet cash (Japanese Yen) is still appreciated in most local stores and izakaya restaurants.
• Tipping is not customary in Japan; A service charge is typically added to the final bill.
• Hotel rooms in Japan are usually smaller, no more than 30 ㎡ (323 ft²) in a 4-star hotel.
• Commonly used are two flat parallel prong plugs (Type A plug), so prepare a Type A plug adapter for your Type B plug.
• Tap water is safe to drink in Japan.
• Access for wheelchairs is available at around 95 percent of Japan's train stations, but challenges persist with taxis and public transport.
• Rubbish bins are scarce in most cities, so it's a good idea to bring a plastic bag to dispose of rubbish if necessary.
• A reservation is necessary:
  • For those popular and high-end restaurants (Michelin, Omakase, Kaiseki Cuisine) - about 3-6 months in advance
  • For the cherry blossom or fall foliage season - about 6 to 9 months in advance
  • For ski resorts in Hokkaido or Hakuba - about 9 to 12 months in advance

Fulfill Your First Journey in Japan With Odynovo

A first-time journey to Japan that includes Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka is always a great choice. With convenient transportation to continue your journey and nearby highlights to explore, it offers a perfect balance of history and charm. Whether you're traveling with family, friends, or a partner, if you have any questions about planning your trip, feel free to reach out to us anytime!