9 Incredible Places to Visit in Japan for First Timers

Last updated on November 14, 2023 by Krysti

There are so many amazing destinations to discover in Japan, especially for those planning a first-time Japan itinerary.

From the snowy mountains of Hokkaido to the bright lights of Tokyo and the pristine sandy shores of Okinawa, Japan truly has a lot to offer. So much so that deciding where to go and what to do can be a challenging task.

I mean, I live in Japan, and I’ve struggled with the countless options that surround me – I want to visit it all, but I can’t do it all at once! Thankfully, I think I’ve got a handle on it now, and I want to help you do the same.

To assist you with your Japan travels, I’ve compiled below a list of the best places to visit in Japan for first timers. Whether you’re looking for an urban adventure, a cultural experience, a tropical getaway, or an excursion off the beaten path, this list is the perfect starting point if you’re planning a trip to Japan for the first time.

Important Tips for Your First Visit to Japan

Before we jump in and discuss where to go in Japan, I have a few important tips to share first.

Traveling to Japan

Most visitors to Japan, especially those traveling to Japan for the first time, end up flying into Tokyo. This is where two of the country’s largest airports reside: Haneda Airport and Narita International Airport. While this is, undoubtedly, a great way to begin your Japan itinerary (and one I recommend), it’s important to note that it’s not your only option.

If you’re interested in exploring different parts of Japan, there are several other airports that you can utilize as well. For example, Kansai International Airport and Chubu Centrair International Airport provide easier access to Kyoto and Osaka. Meanwhile, Fukuoka Airport is the best option for those interested in exploring Kyushu Island. Similarly, New Chitose Airport is the go-to airport for Hokkaido, and Naha Airport is the central hub for Okinawa.

In short, there are several major airports throughout Japan that you can fly into. So don’t feel like you have to confine yourself to the airports in Tokyo, if you’re interested in exploring beyond the country’s capital.

Getting Around Japan

Once you arrive in Japan, you’ll discover that it’s quite easy to get around. The public transportation system in Japan is not only widely available, it’s also very reliable.

The country is home to an extensive network of trains that span across the country. Therefore, travel between cities, even as a first-time visitor to Japan, is pretty straightforward and simple. In addition to this, nearly every city offers some combination of buses, subways, and/or trains, allowing for local travel within city limits. 

You can purchase one-way tickets or day passes for local transportation, depending upon the length of your stay. Meanwhile, intercity travel via train and the Shinkansen (bullet train) can be purchased individually or with the Japan Rail pass.

The JR pass, while a bit pricey up front, is a great option for those who plan to travel to multiple cities within a short period of time. The pass also includes the use of some local transportation in certain cities. 

If you prefer to drive yourself, it is also possible to rent a car in Japan. In order to do this, however, you will need to obtain an International Driver’s Permit. If you go this route, keep in mind that parking in many major cities can be quite expensive and hard to find at times, so it’s best to plan ahead and weigh your options accordingly.

Map of Japan

There are a lot of places to visit in Japan for first timers, so I thought it would be helpful to include a map for your use. I’ve pinned all the major destinations mentioned in this article.

If you’d like to view an interactive version of this map, click here!

Best Places to Visit in Japan for First Timers

Without further ado and in no specific order, here are my top recommendations for your first-time visit to Japan.

Tokyo

Sensō-ji Temple in Tokyo is one of the most exciting places to visit for first timers to Japan.

As the country’s capital, Tokyo is a major destination for those visiting Japan for the first time. Hailed by many as the best city in Japan to visit, Tokyo is exciting, it’s vibrant, it’s lively, and it’s expansive. Encompassing 23 wards and countless districts, the city offers a little bit of everything. From historical shrines to colorful temples, modern skyscrapers, lush parks, extensive shopping centers, and thriving nightclubs, there truly is something for everyone here.

While you could easily spend weeks exploring the city, I recommend staying at least 3-5 days in Tokyo. This will give you enough time to visit a few of the city’s big-ticket items.

Best Places to Visit in Tokyo, Japan for First Timers

• The Imperial Palace – Serving as the official residence of Japan’s royal family, the Imperial Palace has opened its outer grounds and gardens to visitors.
• Tokyo Tower – The second tallest tower in the city and the official symbol of Tokyo, Tokyo Tower offers fantastic views of the surrounding metropolis.
• Tokyo Skytree – As the tallest structure in Tokyo, Skytree offers incredible views of the city (including Tokyo Tower).
• Sensō-ji Temple – Located in the historic Asakusa district, Sensō-ji is the oldest Buddhist temple in Tokyo and one of the most colorful.
• Meiji Jingu Shrine – Home to an expansive wooded park, Meiji is a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
• Shibuya Scramble Crossing – Located amid Tokyo’s bustling Shibuya district, Shibuya Crossing is the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing – and quite a sight to behold.
• Tokyo Disney Resort – Popular among families, Tokyo Disney is home to two theme parks, Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea. As a side note, Tokyo DisneySea is the only theme park of its kind in the world.

In addition to this, Tokyo is known for its incredible culinary scene, which features a variety of restaurants, eateries, and food stalls. From ramen to sushi, curry, tempura, yakitori, udon, and soba, Tokyo has it all – and it’s all delicious! 

If you’d like to sample a little bit of everything, be sure to visit The Tsukiji Outer Market. Located in central Tokyo, this market is home to more than 400 vendors selling a variety of authentic Japanese fare.

Kyoto

Kinkaku-ji Temple (also known as the Golden Pavilion) in Kyoto is a must-visit for first time tourists to Japan.

If it’s your first time in Japan, then I highly recommend adding Kyoto to your itinerary. It’s touristy and, at times, crowded, yes, but in my opinion, it’s still one of the best places to visit in Japan for first timers. I say this because Kyoto is brimming with cultural experiences and historical encounters. As the former capital of Japan, a role it held for over a thousand years, the city is home to 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, collectively known as the Monuments of Ancient Kyoto.

While history-buffs may need a bit more time to explore, I recommend staying at least 3-4 days in Kyoto. That should be more than enough time for the average visitor to get their fill of historical Japan.

Best Things To Do in Kyoto, Japan for First Timers

• Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine – Known for its torii gates, which number in the thousands, Fushimi Inari is arguably one of the most famous Shinto shrines in Japan.
• Kinkaku-ji Temple – Commonly referred to as the Golden Pavilion, Kinkaku-ji is a beautiful Zen temple known for the gold leaf that covers its upper floor.
• Kiyomizu-dera Temple – Overlooking Kyoto and the surrounding area, Kiyomizu-dera is a Buddhist temple that offers incredible views of the city. 
• Arashiyama District – A popular tourist destination, Arashiyama is home to several temples and historical sites, including the famed Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
• Gion District – Known informally as Kyoto’s geisha district, Gion is the perfect place to go if you wish to catch a glimpse of locals in traditional Japanese attire. 
• Nishiki Market – Dating back over 400 years, Nishiki Market is not only a historical site to see, it’s also one of the best places in Kyoto to grab some souvenirs and sample local Japanese cuisine.

Kyoto also happens to be a great place to try on a Japanese kimono if you’d like to snap some photos of yourself in traditional attire. There are several kimono rental shops throughout the city that offer various packages, some of which include professional hair and make-up.

Even though walk-ins are accepted at most kimono rental shops, you will want to make a reservation if you plan to visit Japan during the high season.

Osaka

Dontonbori district is one of the best places to visit for first timers to Osaka, Japan.

Known for its vibrant nightlife and delectable street food, Osaka is a popular destination for first-time Japan visitors. Here you can expect to find a lively city filled with bright neon lights, pulsating nightclubs, ancient and historic structures, fun-filled theme parks, and some of the best food in Japan. In fact, many visitors travel to Osaka just to sample its varied street food – so even if you’re not a fan of big cities, you may still want to add Osaka to your itinerary, especially if you’re a foodie.

Given the size of the city and the amount of food to sample, I’d recommend staying 2-3 days in Osaka. This should provide you with ample time to experience all that the city has to offer.

Best Places to Visit in Osaka, Japan for First Timers

• Dotonbori Street – As Osaka’s premier entertainment center, Dotonbori is the place to go if you wish to experience the city’s restaurants, bars, nightclubs, street performances, and food stall vendors.
• Osaka Castle – Considered by many to be one of Japan’s most famous castles, Osaka Castle is not only beautiful but also historically significant for the role it played in unifying Japan during the samurai era.
• Shitennoji Temple – Founded in 593, Shitennoji is the oldest official Buddhist temple in Japan to be funded and built by the government.
• Universal Studios Japan – Japan’s only Universal theme park, this popular destination features a variety of exciting worlds, including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Jurassic Park, and Super Nintendo World.
• Nara – Known for its historical sites and free-roaming deer, Nara is located only 40 minutes away from Osaka by train, making it a perfect day trip.

If you only have time to sample one dish in Osaka, make sure it’s Takoyaki. Believed to have been invented by a street vendor in Osaka, Takoyaki consists of small deep-fried balls that are filled with Octopus and topped with a sweet Japanese sauce.

You can find variations of Takoyaki among street vendors throughout the city. Many of them even cook right out in the open, so you can see firsthand how Takoyaki is made!

Mount Fuji

The view of Mount Fuji from Arakurayama Sengen Park is a must-see for new and returning visitors. Photo by David Edelstein via Unsplash.

Widely regarded as Japan’s most iconic natural landmark, Mount Fuji is an incredible sight to behold. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the tallest peak in Japan, this mountain has long been the subject of many Japanese artists and poets, who have highly regarded it for its natural beauty. Today, it remains a major tourist attraction, drawing in visitors from across Japan and the world, who flock to the mountain in hopes of catching a glimpse of its snow-capped peak.

If you’d like to do the same, I’d recommend staying 1-2 days near Mount Fuji. Ideally, if you have the time, it’s best to stay overnight as this will increase your chances of catching a clear, cloud-free view of the mountain.

Best Places to See Mt Fuji for First Timers

• Hakone – Known for its hot spring resorts, Hakone is a mountainous town that offers unforgettable views of Mount Fuji and the surrounding landscape.
• Fuji Five Lakes – Located at the northern base of Mount Fuji, the Five Lakes consist of Lake Kawaguchi, Lake Saiko, Lake Yamanaka, Lake Shōji, and Lake Motosu– each of which offers unspoiled views of the mountain.
• Arakurayama Sengen Park – Situated along Mount Arakurayama, Sengen Park is home to one of the most famous views of Mount Fuji – that of a red five-storied pagoda set in front of the snow-capped mountain.
• Oshino Hakkai – Located amongst the Fuji Five Lakes, Oshino Hakkai is a quaint traditional village where you’ll find a series of ponds created by the snow melt from Mount Fuji.
• Fuji-Q Highland – Known for its record-breaking roller coasters, Fuji-Q Highland is an amusement park that also offers incredible views of Mount Fuji – views that can be enjoyed right from the seat of a roller coaster.

Of course, if you’re an avid hiker, you can also hike up to the peak of Mount Fuji. Hiking trails here are open from July to mid-September and take anywhere from 6-16 hours to navigate roundtrip, depending upon your skill level and the path you take.

Many people who hike Mount Fuji opt to spread the trip out over two days, spending the night camped out in one of the local mountain huts. Doing so allows for a slower-paced hike and sunrise views from the summit – if you plan accordingly.

Hiroshima

The Atomic Bomb Dome in Hiroshima is a sobering yet important landmark to behold.

The target of the world’s first atomic bomb, Hiroshima has transformed itself into a beautiful and vibrant city despite its tragic past. Today, it’s home to a number of modern skyscrapers, reconstructed historical sites, expansive shopping centers, delectable restaurants, and profoundly moving museums. While a visit here may be sobering at times, Hiroshima should still top your list of places to go in Japan, as it’s an incredible destination with an important message to share.

Although it’s a small city, I still recommend spending 2 days in Hiroshima. This should give you more than enough time to see everything that you’d like to see.

Best Things to Do in Hiroshima, Japan for First Timers

• Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum – Dedicated to the bombing of the city, the Peace Memorial Museum shares the story of Hiroshima’s tragic past.
• Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park – Created in memory of the bombing’s victims, the Peace Memorial Park is home to several monuments, including the Atomic Bomb Dome, the only building left standing after the bomb exploded.
• Hiroshima Castle – Rebuilt after the atomic bombing, Hiroshima Castle now houses several relics and artifacts from the Edo period.
• Shukkeien Garden – Dating back to 1620, Shukkeien is the perfect example of a traditional Japanese garden, complete with scenic ponds and quaint tea houses.

While you’re in Hiroshima, make sure to try their local version of Okonomiyaki. This savory pancake features layers of batter, cabbage, yakisoba noodles, bean sprouts, pork belly, and fried egg – all topped with Okonomiyaki sauce and Japanese mayo.

If you like, you can even take a cooking class and learn how to make Okonomiyaki yourself. There are several courses throughout the city that you can sign up for – just be sure to make your reservations early, as spots are known to fill up quickly.

Miyajima Island

The floating torii gate near Miyajima Island is a popular attraction for first time visitors to Japan.

Nestled amongst the islands of Hiroshima Bay, Miyajima Island is a beautiful and historic destination. Home to several ancient temples, wooden forests, scenic views, and free-roaming deer, this small but mountainous island is well worth a visit. Located only an hour away from Hiroshima, it’s a great day trip for those who may be short on time.

If you plan to visit, I recommend spending at least 1 full day on Miyajima Island. However, if you have the time, staying overnight on the island can be quite an experience, as it becomes significantly less crowded and even more magical.

Best Things to Do in Miyajima, Japan for First Timers

• Itsukushima Shrine – A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Itsukushima is famous for its floating torii gate, which can only be reached by boat during high tide.
• Five-Story Pagoda – Overlooking Miyajima, this historic bright red Zen Buddhist temple dates back to the 15th century.
• Daisho-in Temple – Located at the foot of Mount Misen, Daisho-in is a historical temple that houses more than 500 Buddhist statues.
• Mount Misen Observatory – Accessible via ropeway or hiking trail, Mount Misen Observatory offers incredible views of Miyajima Island and the surrounding bay.

As you’re exploring the island, you’re likely to encounter its local population of small free-roaming deer. While you’re welcome to pet and take photos with the deer, be careful around them and don’t feed them! They are still wild animals and have been known to get a bit aggressive around food.

I’ve personally seen them grab snacks right out of people’s hands and they’ve even been known to steal items from open bags and purses. So definitely be aware – they may seem cute and sweet, but that isn’t always the case.

Matsumoto

Matsumoto-jō Castle in Matsumoto isn’t a common addition to many Japan itineraries, but should be!

Not many people add Matsumoto to their Japan itinerary. And in my opinion, that’s a shame. Located only 2.5 hours west of Tokyo by train, in the midst of the Japanese Alps, this small city offers a variety of authentic experiences. From historical encounters to exciting outdoor adventures, incredible natural views, and glimpses of Japanese life (without the crowds), Matsumoto is an incredible off-the-beaten-path destination.

While avid hikers will probably want to dedicate more time to exploring the mountains, 1-2 days in Matsumoto should be enough for the average visitor – especially if you’re only interested in seeing the city’s major sites.

Top Things to Do in Matsumoto, Japan for First Timers

• Matsumoto-jō Castle – Designated a National Treasure of Japan, Matsumoto-jō is home to the country’s oldest surviving five-tiered, six-story castle tower.
• Nawate-dori Street – Commonly referred to as Frog Street for its numerous frog statues and memorabilia, Nawate-dori is a historic pedestrian street where you’ll find a number of local shops, restaurants, and cafes. 
• Yohashira-jinja Shrine – Dedicated to four Shinto deities, Yohashira-jinja is a historic shine that is especially beautiful during the fall months when the surrounding leaves change color. 
• Japan Alps – Located in the heart of the Japanese Alps, Matsumoto offers easy access to many hiking destinations, including Kamikochi, Mt. Yakedake, and the Norikura Kogen Highlands.

Those who love craft beer will be excited to hear that Matsumoto is also home to its very own brewery. Using a variety of local ingredients, Matsumoto Brewery offers everything from IPAs to pale ales, bitters, stouts, and Scotch ale. 

With two tap rooms located right in the city, you should have no problem sampling the hoppy flavors of the Japanese Alps.

Fukuoka

The Reclining Buddha at Nanzoin Temple is one of the best places to visit for first timers to Fukuoka, Japan.

Situated along the north-western coast of Kyushu Island, Fukuoka is a bustling city known for its beautiful beaches, lively nightlife, delectable local cuisine, and historic temples. As the largest city and main port on the island, it’s a popular destination for local Japanese travelers. However, given its distance from Japan’s main tourist hub, not many foreigners make their way down to the city – which is a shame because Fukuoka is a truly wonderful place to visit!

To experience the city in full, I recommend staying 3-4 days in Fukuoka. There is just so much to do and see here. And when you factor in day trips, your itinerary can fill up really quickly.

Best Things to Do in Fukuoka, Japan for First Timers

• Nanzoin Temple – Located just outside the city, Nanzoin is a famous temple known for its giant reclining bronze Budhha statue, which is one of the largest in the world.
• Canal City Hakata – Known for its water fountain shows, Canal City is home to several shops and restaurants, including the famed Ramen Stadium – a food court solely dedicated to ramen.
• Tochoji Temple – Situated in the heart of Fukuoka City, Tochoji is a Buddhist temple that houses a five-story pagoda as well as a giant wooden Buddha statue. 
• Kushida-jinja Shrine – Dating back to the 8th century, Kushida-jinja is a historic Shinto shrine known for its various elaborate festivals and celebrations.
• Ohori Park – Popular for its scenic views and serene pond (which once served as a moat for Fukuoka Castle), Ohori Park is a popular spot to walk around and escape the hustle and bustle of the city. It’s also located right next to the Fukuoka Castle Ruins, so you can visit both at the same time.
• Itoshima – Known for its stunning beaches and incredible natural scenery, Itoshima is the perfect place for a day trip.

If you’re a foodie, then you’ll also want to visit Fukuoka’s Yatai Food Stalls. Located throughout the city, these food stalls feature cozy open-air seating where chefs prepare food right in front of you.

It’s not just the food, however, that makes these food stalls so popular, it’s also the atmosphere they provide. Given their close-knit quarters, these food stalls offer the incredible opportunity to interact with locals and tourists alike, all while sampling some of Fukuoka’s most famous dishes.

Okinawa Prefecture

Ikei Beach is a great beach destination located on the main island in Okinawa.

If you’d like to experience Japan but are also looking for a tropical paradise getaway, Okinawa is, without a doubt, the place to go! Home to more than 160 islands, both inhabited and uninhabited, Okinawa is Japan’s most southern and warmest prefecture. Here you can expect to find a thriving tropical climate, complete with pristine sandy beaches, lush jungles, flourishing coral reefs, crystal clear waters, and endless adventure. 

While tropical lovers (like myself!) could spend weeks exploring the islands, I’d recommend staying at least 3-4 days in Okinawa. This should give you enough time to explore the main island (also named Okinawa) and maybe even take a day trip or two to some of the smaller islands nearby.

Best Places to Visit in Okinawa, Japan for First Timers

• Okinawa Beaches – If there’s one thing Okinawa is known for, it’s the many beautiful beaches that line its shores. Some of the most popular on the main island include Manza Beach, Okuma Beach, Zanpa Beach, and Sunset Beach.
• Yambaru National Park – Encompassing more than 33,000 acres of jungle and shoreline, Yambaru is a popular spot for hiking and canoeing.
• Shuri Castle – A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Shuri Castle dates back to the Ryukyu Kingdom in the 15th century when Okinawa was still its own independent country.
• American Village – Located along the western shore of the main island, American Village is a bright and colorful outdoor shopping complex filled with a variety of shops, cafes, restaurants, hotels, and bars.
• Ocean Expo Park – A popular state-run park, Ocean Expo is home to a variety of attractions, including the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, the Oceanic Culture Museum Planetarium, the Omoro Botanical Garden, a replica Native Okinawan Village, and Emerald Beach.
• Gyokusendo Cave – Located inside Okinawa World, Gyokusendo is Okinawa’s biggest limestone cave dating back an estimated 300,000 years.

If you’d like to venture off the main island, some popular nearby day trips include Tokashiki Island (known for its vibrant blue waters), Zamami Island (famous for its beaches), and Kudaka Island (the “Island of the Gods” and one of the holiest places in Okinawa).

For those interested in exploring further and spending a few nights in the outer islands, some possible destinations include Ishigaki Island (famous for its crystal clear waters), Iriomote Island (known for its large swaths of untouched land), and Miyako Island (home to some of Japan’s top-rated beaches).

An Ideal Japan Itinerary for First Timers

At the very minimum, I recommend spending 10 days in Japan, but 2 weeks is better! If you can swing it, 2 weeks will give you ample time to see a decent amount of the country without feeling too rushed. 

Below are my suggestions for a 2-week Japan itinerary for first-time visitors. I’ve thrown in a few options that you can choose from depending on your preferences and interests.

• Day 1-5: Tokyo – During this time, you can opt to spend all five days exploring the city of Tokyo or add in a few day trips to Matsumoto and/or Mount Fuji. 
• Day 6 – 9: Kyoto – As I shared above, Kyoto is a must, so definitely set aside some time to really explore all that this historical city has to offer! 
• Day 10 – 11: Osaka or Hiroshima – Osaka and Hiroshima are great cities, but I don’t think it’s necessary to visit both. Choose whichever one interests you the most and go with it!
  • Another option to consider if you’re really set on visiting both Hiroshima and Osaka: you could travel to Osaka as a day trip from Kyoto and then head to Hiroshima for days 10-11.
• Day 12 – 14: Okinawa or Fukuoka – I really think it’s worth it to travel beyond Japan’s main island and experience another region of the country. Whether you opt to visit Okinawa or Fukuoka, you’re sure to have an incredible time!

While this itinerary doesn’t provide you with the opportunity to visit every single location I’ve mentioned in this article, I think it still offers a good sampling of the best places to visit in Japan for first timers.

Additional Advice for Your First Visit to Japan

Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine in Kyoto is one of the best places to visit in Japan for first timers.

Once you’ve finalized your itinerary, you’ll want to begin ironing out the finer details and logistics of your vacation. To help with this, I’ve included below a few travel tips to assist you in navigating your first trip to Japan!

Download Google Translate

While people in more touristy areas of Japan may speak a little English, you’re bound to come across somebody who doesn’t speak any at all. This is especially true if you plan to travel to any off-the-beaten-path destinations.

To help you navigate this, I recommend downloading one of my favorite travel apps for Japan, Google Translate. This app provides quick real-time translations between English and Japanese and can be a lifesaver in situations where a language barrier may be present.

To ensure you have access to it at all times, be sure to also download Japanese for offline translation.

Purchase a SIM Card or Rent a Pocket Wi-Fi

Unless you have an international cell phone plan, you’ll want to invest in a SIM Card or Pocket Wi-Fi. While you can usually find Wi-Fi hotspots in touristy areas, it’s not always a guarantee. Generally speaking, it’s easier and much faster to just have access to your own cell service or pocket Wi-Fi – especially if it’s your first time to Japan.

You’ll need to use your phone to navigate, translate, and stay connected with home, so you’ll certainly benefit from the 24/7 access. 

Both SIM cards and pocket Wi-Fi rentals are available at most major airports and can be obtained upon arrival. However, if you plan to rent a pocket Wi-Fi, it’s usually better to reserve it ahead of time, as they do occasionally sell out. If your phone has the capabilities, eSIM cards are another option you can consider as well.

It’s important to note that you’ll only be able to use a SIM card if your cell phone is unlocked. You can check with your service provider to determine the status of your phone.

Have Cash (Yen!) on Hand

While many establishments in Japan accept credit cards, you’ll still probably come across some that are cash only. Generally speaking, street vendors and smaller restaurants don’t accept cards. And the same can be said of many merchants that are located more off the beaten path. Given this, it’s important to have yen on hand while traveling throughout Japan.

You can exchange money before you come or do so upon your arrival. ATMs are located in convenience stores all across Japan, so you should have no problem obtaining cash while you’re here.

Book Your Reservations Ahead of Time

If it’s your first time visiting Japan and there are specific attractions that you’d like to check out, then I highly recommend booking them ahead of time. Popular destinations are known to book up quickly, especially during peak travel season. Given this, it’s best to plan ahead and make those reservations as early as possible.

This applies not only to popular tourist attractions but also to things like restaurants, lodging, rentals, and train tickets. Pretty much anything that can be booked ahead of time should be! 

Learn to Use Chopsticks

If there’s one way to make yourself stand out as a tourist in Japan, it’s using a fork, especially at traditional Japanese restaurants. In fact, many small, authentic restaurants (which, trust me, are the ones you want to eat at) don’t even have forks and knives available.

So do yourself a favor and start practicing with chopsticks now. Once you get the hang of it, it’s not too hard!

Don’t Overdo Your Itinerary

While there are a number of amazing places to visit in Japan for first timers, chances are you won’t be able to see them all – and that’s okay.

If there’s one piece of advice that I can impart upon you, it’s don’t overpack your itinerary. If you’re constantly moving from place to place, you’ll never get the chance to fully experience the destinations you visit. And they deserve to be experienced.

Instead, choose a few places that really interest you, and focus on them. Spend enough time there that you really get to know each location on an individual basis. Not only will this reduce the stress of constantly being on the go, but you’re also more likely to have a richer and more fuller experience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Japan for the First Time

The view from the top of Mount Misen on Miyajima Island is absolutely incredible!

Here are my thoughts on some commonly asked questions about traveling to Japan for the first time.

Is Japan Worth Visiting? 

Yes, Japan is definitely worth visiting! From its vibrant culture to its rich history, delectable cuisine, lively cities, beautiful countryside, and lush islands, Japan has so much to offer. Whether it’s your first time or your tenth time visiting the country, there’s always something new to experience in Japan.

How Many Days Should I Spend in Japan? 

At minimum, I’d recommend spending at least 10 days in Japan – although 2 weeks would be better! While the country is small, there is still a lot to do, especially if you plan to visit multiple islands. By spending 2 weeks in Japan, you’ll have the opportunity to really explore a few different destinations in depth without feeling too rushed.

When is the Best Time to Visit Japan?

While Japan is incredible year-round, most people consider spring (March to May) to be the best time to visit. The weather during this time of the year tends to be more pleasant, with mild temperatures and little rain. However, it’s also peak travel season as spring brings with it cherry blossoms and several Japanese holidays. Unfortunately, this means you can expect to encounter more crowds and higher prices. If you wish to avoid this and aren’t set on seeing the cherry blossoms, you can try and come at the very beginning or tail end of the season. 

How Long Does It Take to Get to Japan? 

Flight times to Japan vary depending upon several factors. These include the airport you fly out of, how many layovers you have, and how long those layovers are. Generally speaking, however, when flying from the United States, flights from the east coast take an average of 14 hours. Meanwhile, flights from the west coast take about 10 hours.

Do I Need to Know Japanese to Visit Japan? 

No, it is not necessary to know Japanese if you wish to visit Japan. However, it’s helpful to know a little bit. While English is spoken in many touristy areas, it won’t be widely known everywhere you go. Chances are you’ll encounter someone who doesn’t speak English during your trip, especially if you venture off the beaten path. Given this, it’s beneficial to know at least a few words and/or to have Google Translate available on your cell phone. Locals also seem to appreciate it when visitors attempt to speak their language – so don’t be afraid to give it a go!

Final Thoughts: Best Places to Visit in Japan for First Timers

While this list is by no means 100% complete (there are plenty of other amazing places that you can visit as well), I hope it at least provides you with a good starting point from which you can plan your first trip to Japan.

I’m probably a bit biased because I live here, but in my opinion, Japan is a phenomenal destination, one that has so much to offer. From authentic cultural experiences to unique historical sites, incredibly delicious cuisine, friendly and polite people, and, of course, unforgettable adventure, Japan truly has it all!

And as a first time visitor to Japan, I have no doubt that you will have an absolutely amazing time regardless of where you choose to go!

So what do you think? Where would you like to go during your first trip to Japan? Let me know in the comments below!

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