Best Places to Visit in Japan for First-Timers (Ultimate UK Travel Guide)

Japan is one of those rare countries that feels both wildly different and surprisingly easy to explore. From ancient temples and neon-lit cities to bullet trains and vending machines that sell almost everything, it’s a dream destination for first-time visitors.

If you’re planning your very first trip, this guide covers the best places to visit in Japan for first-timers, helping you see the highlights without feeling overwhelmed.

Why Japan is Perfect for First-Time Travellers

Japan is famously safe, clean, organised and efficient. English signage is common in major cities, public transport is world-class, and locals are incredibly helpful. Even if you don’t speak a word of Japanese, travelling here is surprisingly straightforward.

The key for beginners is to focus on destinations that combine culture, food, transport connections and iconic sights – and that’s exactly what this list delivers.

1. Tokyo – The Ultimate First Stop

No list of the best places to visit in Japan for first-timers can start anywhere else.

Tokyo is a city of contrasts. One moment you’re walking past ancient shrines, the next you’re surrounded by skyscrapers and giant video screens. It’s chaotic, futuristic, traditional and fascinating all at once.

Don’t miss:

  • Shibuya Crossing – the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing

  • Asakusa and Sensō-ji Temple

  • Meiji Shrine in Harajuku

  • Shinjuku’s neon nightlife

  • TeamLab Borderless or TeamLab Planets digital art museums

Tokyo is also the best place to try Japanese food for the first time, from ramen and sushi to street snacks and vending-machine meals.

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2. Kyoto – Traditional Japan at Its Best

If Tokyo is modern Japan, Kyoto is its soul.

Kyoto was Japan’s capital for over 1,000 years, and it remains packed with temples, shrines and historic streets. For first-time visitors wanting to experience traditional Japan, Kyoto is unmissable.

Top attractions:

  • Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of red torii gates

  • Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion)

  • Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

  • Gion district, home of geisha culture

  • Nishiki Market for local food

Kyoto is compact and walkable, making it ideal for travellers who prefer sightseeing on foot.

3. Osaka – Japan’s Food Capital

Osaka is friendly, fun and far less formal than Tokyo or Kyoto. It’s famous for its incredible street food, lively atmosphere and welcoming locals.

For first-timers, Osaka is a brilliant place to relax, eat well and enjoy Japanese nightlife.

Highlights include:

  • Dōtonbori street for neon signs and food stalls

  • Osaka Castle

  • Universal Studios Japan

  • Kuromon Market

Osaka is also the perfect base for day trips to Kyoto, Nara and Kobe.

4. Nara – Home of Bowing Deer and Giant Buddhas

Just a short train ride from Osaka or Kyoto, Nara is one of the easiest and most rewarding day trips in Japan.

Nara Park is famous for its free-roaming deer that bow for food, creating one of Japan’s most unique experiences.

Must-see sights:

  • Tōdai-ji Temple with its enormous Great Buddha

  • Nara Park

  • Kasuga Taisha Shrine

  • Traditional tea houses

It’s a calm, beautiful contrast to the big cities.

5. Mount Fuji – Japan’s Most Iconic View

No first trip to Japan feels complete without seeing Mount Fuji.

You don’t need to climb it to enjoy it. Many travellers stay around Lake Kawaguchi or Hakone to get incredible views.

Best ways to experience Fuji:

  • Lake Kawaguchi for classic postcard views

  • Hakone for hot springs and ropeway views

  • Fuji Five Lakes area

It’s especially stunning in spring and autumn.

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6. Hiroshima – History and Peace

Hiroshima is one of Japan’s most moving destinations and surprisingly uplifting. It’s modern, vibrant and full of excellent food, yet it also tells an important story.

Key attractions:

  • Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

  • Atomic Bomb Dome

  • Hiroshima Peace Museum

  • Okonomiyaki restaurants

Nearby Miyajima Island is also famous for its floating torii gate and is a popular half-day trip.

7. Miyajima – One of Japan’s Most Beautiful Islands

Located near Hiroshima, Miyajima is often called one of Japan’s three most scenic spots.

The island is famous for:

  • Its floating torii gate

  • Its shrine built over the water

  • Mountain views

  • Friendly deer

It’s a magical place that feels completely different from Japan’s cities.

8. Hakone – Hot Springs and Fuji Views

Hakone is one of the best places in Japan for first-time visitors to experience an onsen (hot spring) and enjoy beautiful scenery.

It’s an easy trip from Tokyo and offers:

  • Views of Mount Fuji

  • Lake Ashi boat cruises

  • Ropeways and cable cars

  • Traditional ryokan inns

Perfect for a relaxing break between busy cities.

9. Takayama – A Taste of Old Japan

Takayama is a small mountain town that gives first-timers a glimpse of rural Japan.

It’s famous for:

  • Well-preserved old town streets

  • Traditional wooden houses

  • Morning markets

  • Local beef dishes

Takayama is ideal if you want to slow down and see a different side of Japan.

10. Kanazawa – Kyoto Without the Crowds

Kanazawa is one of Japan’s most underrated cities and brilliant for first-time visitors who want culture without the crowds.

Top sights include:

  • Kenrokuen Garden (one of Japan’s best gardens)

  • Kanazawa Castle

  • Samurai and geisha districts

  • Excellent seafood markets

It feels authentic and relaxed.

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