Top Places to Visit in Japan for First-Time Travelers

Japan is truly an awesome place in the world. It is the land where old temples are next to each other with modern cities, where you can see serene nature and active urban life. Should you be planning to visit Japan, the quest to visit Japan as first time visitor must be questioning you about where to go first. Don't worry! In this blog we shall give you the top travel destinations in Japan as a first time traveler. What ever you love be it nature, food, history or fun Japan has something special.  
 

1. Tokyo - The City of Lights and Wonders Tokyo is the capital of Japan and one of the most crowded cities in the world. It's a city of skyscrapers, bright neon lights, and things that are simply entertaining. 

 Yet even in the heart of the city, there will be parks and ancient temples that provide peace. Walking through places like Shibuya Crossing, you will see hundreds of people crossing the street at the same time, from every direction! You'll want to stop to visit Senso-ji, one of the oldest and beautiful temples in Tokyo, located in Asakusa.  

If you love anime or video games, you may never want to leave Akihabara. Tokyo is a great place to begin your trip to Japan. It has the right blend of tradition and technology, and you will never run out of things to see and food to eat. 

2. Kyoto- The City of Japanese Tradition Kyoto is called the cultural capital of Japan. It is an area where you get a sense of calm and more traditional side of the country. Kyoto is quiet and historical unlike the bolting Tokyo.  

The Fushimi Inari Shrine is one of the most visited tourists sites in Kyoto because thousands of insect-like gates painted in shiny red are located along a mountain road. The Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is another magic spot. It is like being in a different world, when you walk through it.  

The Golden Pavilion is a shiny temple which you cannot afford to miss out, simply because it shines and beautifully reflects in the water. You may even see a geisha as she treads the ancient wooden streets of the Gion area. Kyoto is a City of beauty, culture and charm, not to be missed by anyone, who wants to see the real Japan. 

3. Osaka – The City of Food and Fun-Osaka is famous all over Japan for its food and friendly people. If you love trying local dishes and snacks, Osaka should be high on your list. The people here love to eat, and you will too! 

In Dotonbori, you’ll see giant signs, flashing lights, and rows of food stalls. This is where you can try takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyaki (a kind of savory pancake), and more. The energy here is amazing — fun, loud, and lively. 

Osaka Castle is also worth visiting. It’s a beautiful place to learn a little history while enjoying pretty views. And if you’re traveling with family, Universal Studios Japan is right in the city and packed with exciting rides and shows. 

4. Mount Fuji – The Icon of Japan-No trip to Japan is complete without seeing Mount Fuji. This tall and snowy mountain is Japan’s most famous natural landmark. It’s so beautiful that you might recognize it from paintings or postcards. 

You can see Mount Fuji from many places, but one of the best is Lake Kawaguchi. On a clear day, you’ll get a perfect view of the mountain reflecting in the water. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even hike up Mount Fuji during the summer months. 

Mount Fuji is a peaceful and powerful sight, and it reminds you of the natural beauty Japan has to offer. 

5. Hiroshima – A City of Peace and Hope-Hiroshima has a very important place in world history. In 1945, it was hit by an atomic bomb, but today it stands as a symbol of peace and strength. Visiting Hiroshima can be an emotional experience, but it’s also inspiring. 

The Peace Memorial Park is a quiet place where you can learn about what happened and how the city was rebuilt. The Atomic Bomb Dome is one of the few buildings that survived the blast and still stands as a memory of the past. 

Nearby, you can visit Miyajima Island, which is famous for its floating torii gate. It’s a beautiful place full of nature and traditional beauty. Hiroshima shows us the importance of peace and the power of moving forward. 

6. Nara – The Town Where Deer Roam Freely-Just a short train ride from Kyoto, Nara is a small and peaceful city known for its friendly deer. At Nara Park, you can walk among hundreds of deer that bow to you in exchange for special deer crackers. It’s a fun and unforgettable experience! 

Nara is also home to Todai-ji Temple, which has one of the biggest bronze Buddha statues in the world. The temple is huge and made almost completely of wood. 

Nara is great for a day trip, and it’s especially fun for families and animal lovers. 

7. Hakone-Hot Spring Town-When you wish to take a break and relax being busy in the city, the best place to be is Hakone. It is two hours drive from Tokyo and it is renowned with natural hot springs that has been referred to as onsen. 

 You may have a boat ride in Lake Ashi in Hakone or have a cable care ride across the mountains. Assuming clear weather, you will even have a glimpse view of Mount Fuji.  

Several individuals also spend their days in a ryokan (a classic Japanese inn) and soak into hot bath with mountains in the views. Hakone is quiet, beautiful, and suitable to relax and get some nature.  

8. Nikko – A Hidden Gem in the Mountains-Nikko is a small town in the mountains north of Tokyo. It’s full of forests, waterfalls, and old shrines. It feels like a secret magical world! 

The most famous spot in Nikko is Toshogu Shrine. It’s decorated with colorful carvings and golden details. The area is also home to Kegon Falls, one of Japan’s tallest and most beautiful waterfalls. 

Nikko is not as crowded as other tourist spots, so it’s perfect if you want to enjoy the quiet side of Japan. 

5 Tips to Assist the First-Time Travelers 

 • Best Time to Visit: Spring (March to May) is awesome due to cherry blossoms. Best places to see    colored leaves are in autumn (October to November).  

• Travel: Use the Japan Rail Pass in case you are going to visit several cities. It helps to save both money and time. 

 • Language: The majority of signs in major metropolis are written in English, although knowing a couple of Japanese words will be beneficial.  

• Food: Don’t get concerned when you have not been exposed to the Japanese food, as there is something to fit in all tastes including burgers and fries!  

• Money: Japan is cash oriented. People accept credit cards within most places, however, not all places. 

Japan is a nation that is brimming with surprises, beauty, and warmth. Whether you're standing under the neon lights of Tokyo, feeding the deer in Nara, or relaxing in a hot spring in Hakone, each part of your trip will be memorable. This is only a small selection of the best places to see in Japan as a first-time traveller, as each city and each town has its own story. So prepare your bags, prepare your mind, and prepare for a once-in-a-lifetime experience!