Japan needs no introduction when it comes to being an excellent travel destination. The amount of tourism is increasing year upon year and so many people are either going or want to go to Japan at some point or another.
If you’re planning your first trip to Japan, you might be wondering where to even begin. With ancient temples, buzzing cities, scenic mountains, and hidden gems scattered across the country, narrowing down your itinerary can be overwhelming — but don’t worry. This guide is here to help!
Here are 10 of the best places to visit in Japan, covering a mix of traditional culture, modern wonders, nature, and unique experiences. Whether you’re into anime, street food, or peaceful shrines, there’s something here for you.
🏙 1. Tokyo – Japan’s Futuristic Capital
Tokyo is a city that never sleeps, bursting with energy, culture, and contrast. It’s the perfect starting point for your Japan adventure.
You can hop between ultra-modern districts like Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Akihabara — packed with towering LED screens, capsule hotels, robot restaurants, and the latest in anime and gaming culture — and then step back into peaceful tradition in areas like Asakusa and Ueno.
Whether you’re wandering through high-end shops in Ginza or grabbing street snacks in Takeshita Street, there’s never a dull moment!
Tokyo is also incredibly well-connected, making it easy to take day trips to Mount Takao, Yokohama, or even Nikko.
Visit historical landmarks like the Meiji Shrine, explore creative spaces like teamLab Planets, or unwind at Odaiba’s beach area.
Despite its size and crowds, Tokyo is safe, clean, and surprisingly easy to navigate. It’s a place where ancient shrines sit beneath skyscrapers and where sushi trains whizz by under glowing neon.
For first-timers, Tokyo offers an exciting taste of everything Japan has to offer — modern, traditional, quirky, and unforgettable.
Tokyo is where modern Japan comes alive — skyscrapers, neon lights, themed cafés, and non-stop energy. From shopping in Shibuya and Harajuku to exploring historical areas like Asakusa, this city is a must-see.
Top Highlights:
- Shibuya Crossing & Hachiko Statue
- Senso-ji Temple
- TeamLab Planets & Ghibli Museum
- Day trips to Mount Takao or Nikko
⛩ 2. Kyoto – Japan’s Cultural Heart
Once the capital of Japan, Kyoto remains the country’s cultural soul. Home to over 1,000 temples and shrines, Kyoto is steeped in history and elegance.
From the glowing torii gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha to the tranquil Zen gardens of Ryoan-ji, this city feels like stepping back into a time of samurai, monks, and geisha. You can stroll through the narrow alleys of the Gion district and catch glimpses of geiko (Kyoto’s word for geisha) on their way to evening appointments.
Kyoto is also a seasonal masterpiece — pink cherry blossoms in spring, fiery maple leaves in autumn, snow-dusted temples in winter, and lush greenery in summer.
The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is another must-see, along with the golden Kinkaku-ji temple reflecting in a peaceful pond.
Unlike Tokyo’s fast pace, Kyoto is quiet and thoughtful, encouraging you to slow down and soak in its beauty. It’s a place of mindfulness and deep tradition, making it ideal for travelers who want to truly connect with Japan’s heritage.
With over 1,000 temples, geisha districts, peaceful gardens, and beautiful seasonal changes, it’s a photographer’s dream.
Top Highlights:
- Fushimi Inari Shrine (the red torii gates)
- Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
- Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
- Gion District (geisha culture)
🍜 3. Osaka – Foodie Paradise
Known as Japan’s kitchen, Osaka is the place to go if you want to eat your heart out. Locals here are warm, outgoing, and always ready for a laugh!
The city is famous for its street food — you absolutely have to try takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), and kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers).
Head to the neon-lit streets of Dotonbori, where food stalls, restaurants, and bright signs compete for your attention. You’ll also find the iconic Glico Running Man sign here — a must for selfies.
Beyond food, Osaka has a lot of fun to offer: visit Osaka Castle, spend a day at Universal Studios Japan (with its Super Nintendo World), or explore quirky districts like Shinsekai. The vibe in Osaka is more relaxed and cheeky than in Tokyo — and that’s part of the charm. It’s also a great base for day trips to Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe.
If Tokyo feels a little too polished, Osaka brings the flavor — both literally and in terms of personality.
If you love takoyaki, okonomiyaki, or just great vibes — this is your spot.
Top Highlights:
- Dotonbori (neon lights + food stalls)
- Osaka Castle
- Kuromon Market
- Universal Studios Japan
🦌 4. Nara – Ancient Temples & Friendly Deer
Nara is small, peaceful, and full of history — but don’t let its size fool you. It was Japan’s first permanent capital and is home to some of the country’s oldest and most important temples.
The main highlight is Todai-ji Temple, which houses a massive 15-meter-tall bronze Buddha — one of the largest in the world. The surrounding park is full of free-roaming deer, considered sacred messengers of the gods. You can buy deer crackers (shika senbei) to feed them, and many will bow in exchange for a snack — though some get cheeky!
Other highlights include Kasuga-taisha Shrine with its hundreds of stone lanterns and Kofuku-ji’s five-story pagoda.
Nara can be explored in a day and is easily reachable from Kyoto or Osaka by train. It’s quieter than both, offering a slower pace and tranquil vibes.
If you’re into history, nature, or just want to hang out with some adorable deer, Nara is a gentle but fascinating stop on your Japanese journey.
Top Highlights:
- Todai-ji Temple
- Nara Deer Park
- Kasuga-taisha Shrine
🌊 5. Hiroshima – Peace, Resilience & Island Views
Hiroshima is a city of deep reflection and inspiring recovery. It’s impossible to visit without acknowledging its tragic history — the Atomic Bomb Dome and Peace Memorial Museum offer powerful reminders of what happened here in 1945.
Yet today, Hiroshima is a vibrant, welcoming city filled with hope and resilience. The beautifully landscaped Peace Memorial Park is both moving and peaceful, and many visitors leave deeply touched by their experience here.
A short ferry ride away is Miyajima Island, famous for its floating torii gate at Itsukushima Shrine — one of Japan’s most iconic images. The island also has hiking trails, friendly deer, and delicious local food like oysters and momiji manju (maple leaf-shaped sweets).
Hiroshima itself is known for okonomiyaki (try it layered Hiroshima-style!), friendly locals, and a laid-back vibe. It’s a must-visit for anyone who wants to understand Japan’s modern identity and the spirit of its people.
Top Highlights:
- Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
- Atomic Bomb Dome
- Miyajima’s floating torii gate
🚠 6. Hakone – Hot Springs & Fuji Views
If you’re craving nature, fresh air, and a relaxing soak in a hot spring, Hakone is the place. Just a couple of hours from Tokyo, this mountainous area is famous for its onsen (hot springs), scenic views, and the possibility of catching a glimpse of Mount Fuji across Lake Ashi.
You can take a pirate-themed cruise across the lake, ride the Hakone Ropeway over steaming volcanic valleys, and visit open-air museums with giant sculptures and outdoor art.
Hakone is especially popular with couples and solo travelers looking to escape the city. Traditional ryokan inns often offer private onsen baths and incredible multi-course meals known as kaiseki.
It’s a great destination year-round, whether you’re enjoying cherry blossoms in spring or fiery autumn leaves. The blend of relaxation, nature, and culture makes Hakone one of the best short trips from Tokyo — especially for travelers who want a break from big-city intensity.
Top Highlights:
- Lake Ashi pirate cruise
- Open-Air Museum
- Owakudani volcanic valley
🏖 7. Fukuoka – Laid-Back City Life + Beaches
Fukuoka is the largest city in Kyushu, and it’s a hidden gem that more travelers should know about. It has all the convenience of a major Japanese city — shopping malls, modern architecture, cool cafés — but with a chill, coastal vibe that makes it super relaxing.
You can explore Fukuoka’s yatai stalls (small open-air food stands) at night, especially along the riverside in Nakasu. This is where you’ll find some of Japan’s best ramen — Hakata tonkotsu style, rich and flavorful.
During the day, you can visit Ohori Park for a peaceful walk, relax at Momochi Seaside Park, or take a ferry to nearby Nokonoshima Island for nature and flowers.
Fukuoka also has a growing arts and music scene and is often ranked as one of Japan’s most livable cities!
If you want a balance between city life and nature — without the crowds — Fukuoka is the ideal stop, especially for repeat travelers who’ve already done the Tokyo/Kyoto route.
Top Highlights:
- Canal City shopping complex
- Yatai food stalls (open-air ramen stands!)
- Ohori Park
- Momochi Seaside Park
❄️ 8. Sapporo – Snow, Beer & Hokkaido Nature
Located in Japan’s northernmost island, Hokkaido, Sapporo is a winter wonderland with some of the country’s best skiing, snowboarding, and snow festivals.
Every February, the Sapporo Snow Festival draws millions with its giant ice sculptures, snow mazes, and nighttime illuminations!
Even outside of winter, Sapporo is worth a visit — especially for its fresh seafood, open spaces, and crisp, cool weather.
You can visit the Sapporo Beer Museum, check out historical sites like the Clock Tower, or take a cable car up Mount Moiwa for panoramic views of the city. It’s also the gateway to Hokkaido’s nature — from flower fields in Furano to lakes, hot springs, and volcanoes in national parks.
Sapporo’s vibe is relaxed but adventurous, and the city feels completely different from anything on Honshu. If you’re into winter sports, open landscapes, or want to escape the humidity of Japan’s summers, head north!
Top Highlights:
- Sapporo Snow Festival (Feb)
- Sapporo Beer Museum
- Mount Moiwa night view
- Day trips to Otaru or Niseko
🧘♀️ 9. Kamakura – Chill Coastal Town with Giant Buddha
Just an hour from Tokyo, Kamakura is the perfect escape when you want something more peaceful but still rich in culture.
This former samurai capital is best known for its Great Buddha — a giant bronze statue sitting peacefully in the open air.
But there’s so much more: explore temples hidden in the hills, walk nature trails, visit caves, and even relax on the beach.
Kamakura feels like a blend of Kyoto’s tradition and a beach town’s chill energy. It’s great for slow travel, solo wanderers, or couples looking for a romantic day trip.
The streets are full of cozy cafés, matcha shops, and little boutiques. Don’t miss Hase-dera Temple for its views over the sea (not to be confused with Nara’s stunning Hase-dera Temple of the same name), or Komachi Street for souvenirs and snacks.
If you want a spiritual vibe without the crowds, Kamakura is a calm but enriching stop.
Top Highlights:
- Great Buddha (Daibutsu)
- Hase-dera Temple
- Komachi-dori shopping street
🍁 10. Nikko – Shrines, Waterfalls & Autumn Colors
Nikko is often called “where Japan’s gods reside” — and it truly feels sacred. Nestled in the mountains north of Tokyo, Nikko is a haven of elaborate shrines, misty forests, and dramatic natural beauty.
The star attraction is Toshogu Shrine, one of the most ornate in Japan, built to honor Tokugawa Ieyasu, the shogun who unified the country. The shrine complex is surrounded by towering cedar trees and intricate carvings.
In the surrounding area, you’ll find stunning nature spots like Lake Chuzenji, Kegon Falls, and scenic hiking trails through Nikko National Park.
The best time to visit? Autumn, when the leaves turn gold and red and the whole region feels like something from a storybook…
Nikko can be visited as a day trip from Tokyo, but staying overnight lets you explore it more deeply — and catch it in its quieter, more magical moments!
Top Highlights:
- Toshogu Shrine
- Kegon Falls
- Lake Chuzenji
- Shinkyo Bridge
✈️ Tips for Planning Your First Trip
- Use a JR Pass if you plan to travel between regions
- Book hotels early, especially during cherry blossom or autumn season
- Learn a few basic Japanese phrases (locals appreciate it!)
- Carry cash — not everywhere accepts cards
- Respect etiquette: quiet on trains, remove shoes indoors, don’t tip
🗺 Final Thoughts
Japan is a country that offers an incredible variety of experiences — all within a single trip. Whether you’re drawn to the futuristic vibe of Tokyo, the spiritual calm of Kyoto’s temples, or the natural beauty of Hokkaido and Hakone, each destination brings something unique to the table.
The 10 places we’ve covered in this guide are perfect for first-time visitors because they give you a strong taste of both modern and traditional Japan. You don’t have to visit them all on your first trip — even just two or three will leave you with unforgettable memories. What’s more important is choosing the places that match your interests and travel style, whether that means food adventures in Osaka, peaceful walks through Nara’s temples, or chasing cherry blossoms in Kyoto.
Japan is also incredibly safe, clean, and easy to explore, even if it’s your first time traveling internationally. Trains are efficient, people are kind and helpful, and the culture is deeply respectful — making it one of the best travel destinations in the world.
So whether you’re planning a short getaway or a long-term stay, start with this list and build your dream itinerary. Wherever you go, Japan is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Happy travels — and enjoy the journey! 🇯🇵✈️✨
🔗 Related:
- 🧳 Japan Travel Hub
- 🏙 Best Places to Visit in Japan
- 🧭 More Destination Guides – Coming Soon!