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Best places to visit in Japan: 10 must-see locations
From historical sites to modern cities, learn about the 10 best places to visit in Japan, including Mount Fuji, Kyoto, Nikko, Osaka, and Nara.
The most memorable vacations are a perfect balance of fun and immersing yourself in the culture and history of the place. When visiting Japan, you’ll be pleasantly surprised at how many things the Land of the Rising Sun has to offer, along with its rich history. Here are the 10 best places to visit in Japan, especially as a first-timer!
While many tourists flock to Tokyo and Kyoto, which are undoubtedly some of the most famous places to visit in Japan, many off-the-beaten-path locations can help spice up your itinerary. Without further ado, here are the 10 best places to visit in Japan, especially as a first-timer!
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Mount Fuji
Predictably enough, Mount Fuji is at the top of our list of best places to visit in Japan. It is quite the ultimate tourist destination and attracts over 200,000 visitors annually. Centuries ago, the path to Mount Fuji’s summit used to be an ancient pilgrimage route, indicating its religious and cultural importance. As a first-timer, this should definitely be on your travel guide for Japan.
However, Mount Fuji is notoriously known for being elusive and often hidden by clouds. Check the weather forecast prior to visiting to ensure you get a good glimpse of Japan’s tallest and most symmetrical mountain. If the weather permits, trek as high as possible on one of Mount Fuji’s four scenic hiking trails: the Yoshida Trail, the Fujinomiya Trail, the Subashiri Trail, and the Gotemba Trail.
- Best for: Those who enjoy mountainous landscapes and beginner to challenging climbs
- Tourist favorite: Have a full view of Mount Fuji from the famous Chureito Pagoda.
- Top tip: Visit Mount Fuji in the summer for the best experience. The climbing season runs from early July until mid-September!
Tokyo
Tokyo, Japan, makes Times Square in New York feel underwhelming and small. The capital city of Japan is always bustling with activity, from noisy arcades to busy pedestrian crossings. The quirky and cool youth fashion makes even something as simple as people-watching a real treat.
You’ll find everything-themed cafes here, larger-than-life shopping malls, and even the Tokyo Imperial Palace. If you want to escape the concrete jungle, head to Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden or one of the many Michelin-starred restaurants scattered all over this top foodie city for a tasty bite.
- Best for: Those who enjoy a lively mix of modern and traditional culture
- Tourist favorite: Go for an exhilarating go-kart drive through the Shibuya crossing dressed as your favorite character.
- Top tip: Navigating Tokyo might be difficult for first-time visitors. To make the experience easier, download some travel apps for Japan before your trip.
Kyoto
Did you know that Tokyo and Kyoto make an anagram of each other? It’s ironic since that’s all they have in common. Kyoto is Tokyo’s ultra-traditional counterpart, with wooden teahouses, bamboo forests, and golden temples and shrines. Spot beautiful temples in Higashiyama and stroll through bamboo groves scattered with monkeys in Arashiyama.
Kyoto is also the heart of the geisha world in Japan, and they live in unique houses called okiya in Kyoto’s geisha districts. However, it’s essential to be aware of local Japanese customs, especially when it comes to geishas. Maintain a respectful distance, and do not attempt to touch or speak to them in public. Photographing maikos or geishas in public is also considered disrespectful.
- Best for: Those interested in experiencing authentic Japanese crafts, historic temples, and traditional Japanese culture
- Tourist favorite: Take the train to Kibune village and walk across the scenic valley to Kurama-dera temple.
- Top tip: If you’re visiting Japan in late March or early April, explore Kyoto’s magical sakura season and cherry blossom spots.
Takayama
Takayama is one of the less-visited places to go in Japan, but that doesn’t mean it’s not equally as beautiful as Tokyo or Kyoto. This small mountainous town sits on the edge of Japan and is densely packed with traditional wooden houses, intricate temples, and bright red bridges over the river.
If you’d like to experience rural Japan, Takayama is the perfect place. It was a significant town during the feudal ages as a source of high-quality timber and skilled carpenters. It is also home to the famous Takayama festival, which is held in spring and autumn, making this the best time to visit Japan. Watch the display of festival floats, marvel at the Karakuri dances, and enjoy the Mikoshi Procession.
- Best for: Those who love to visit underrated locations with well-preserved rustic architecture
- Tourist favorite: Go on a guided Satoyama cycling tour through the gorgeous farming villages.
- Top tip: Try the local specialty: Hida Beef. Many say it is the most succulent and tender beef they have ever tasted!
Nikko
A UNESCO World Heritage site and a mountainous temple town, Nikko is a few hours north of Tokyo and is definitely one of the places worth visiting in Japan, especially for first-time travelers. Famous for its vibrant, earthy autumn colors, Nikko is the perfect blend of traditional architecture and nature. You’ll experience intricately designed temples and shrines with moss-covered stone and vermillion gates.
Be sure to visit Nikko National Park, one of Japan’s oldest national parks, to enjoy ancient traditional structures alongside natural beauty like forest-covered mountains, lakes, and hot springs. End your trip to Nikko with a visit to world-famous sites like Toshogu Shrine, established in the 103 Edo period (1603-1868).
If you plan to stay overnight in Nikko, there are many budget-friendly options, such as the Nikko Park Lodge Tobu Station. However, for a more authentic experience, you can stay in a traditional ryokan with access to outdoor baths and hot springs.
- Best for: Those interested in witnessing small mountainous towns with beautiful, rustic architecture
- Tourist favorite: Hike up the mountain leading to the serene Takino shrine for a peaceful morning.
- Top tip: Nikko is the perfect place to enjoy Japan’s famous cherry blossom season — especially if you’re visiting mid-April.
Okinawa
Ever wanted to visit the Maldives? Pack your beachwear and head to Japan’s island paradise, Okinawa, instead for the ultimate beach escape. This island paradise has crystal-clear turquoise waters, stunning sunsets, and sandy beaches for the most relaxing day.
It’s one of the best places to visit in Japan and the ideal destination for activities such as snorkeling and diving, especially with such a vibrant coral reef teeming with all types of marine life. On the main island, you’ll find one of the world’s largest aquariums, several ancient castle ruins, and a museum where you can learn more about Okinawa’s rich history and culture.
- Best for: Those looking for a relaxing day at the beach
- Tourist favorite: Try Okinawa’s many delicacies, such as Okinawa soba, Taco Rice, and Myakojima.
- Top tip: If you travel to Japan between January and March, you can witness migrating whales.
Osaka
Osaka is one of Japan’s best major cities and worth a visit for its food alone. It’s only 35 miles southwest of Kyoto, making it the perfect destination for a day trip. You can try the infamous pancake-like okonomiyaki made with batter, cabbage, meat, and a choice of your preferred toppings.
The neon craziness of Dotonburi will remind you of New York’s Times Square, and don’t forget to visit the nostalgic Harry Potter World at Universal Studios Japan.
- Best for: Those who enjoy vibrant, lively, and bright cities like New York
- Tourist favorite: Explore the flashy Dotonbori neighborhood — the heart of Osaka’s nightlife.
- Top tip: If you’re planning to visit Japan for a limited time (a two-week trip or less), choose either Tokyo or Osaka, as both are sprawling cities with the same vibe.
Kanazawa
Kanazawa is a city that has braved World War II raids and major natural disasters, emerging unscathed. It’s also home to some of the best-preserved architecture from the Edo period out of all of the Japanese cities. Since it’s a less traveled location and fewer foreigners tend to visit, you’ll find Kanazawa a quieter alternative to busier cities like Kyoto or Tokyo.
But that doesn’t mean it’s any less charming; it remains one of the best places to visit in Japan. Visit the geisha districts, stunning rustic castles, art museums, and one of the most beautiful gardens in the country.
- Best for: Those who enjoy exploring off-the-beaten-path and underrated locations
- Tourist favorite: Visit the traditional wooden tea houses in the Geisha districts.
- Top tip: Arrive early to the garden shortly after sunrise for a magical, serene experience without the hustle and bustle of tourist crowds.
Tsumago
Take a step back in time to one of the top places to visit in Japan. Tsumango is another traditional mountain village in Japan’s Kiso Valley. The post town is one of the best-preserved in Japan, with its quiet streets and traditional Japanese inns. Cars are prohibited on the main roads during daytime, and phone lines are concealed, adding to the historic atmosphere.
Around 300 years ago, during the Edo period, Tsumago was a stop on the Nakasendo Way between Tokyo and Kyoto. You can now hike this trail from Tsumango to Magome village; take in the fresh, crisp air and admire the natural beauty and foliage — perfect for a solo excursion.
- Best for: Those who want to experience old Japan in complete authenticity
- Tourist favorite: Look out for the Tsumago castle remains on the Nakasendo hike.
- Top tip: Stay in traditional charming inns with friendly English-speaking owners for $130-200 per night.
Nara
Nara is rich with historic treasures and home to many UNESCO World Heritage sites. It’s one of Japan’s top attractions and definitely warrants a visit for first-timers. Visit the forest shrine complex temple Kasuga Taisha or the Daibutsu-den (Hall of the Great Budda). It’s one of the largest wooden buildings in the world, and inside, you’ll find a world-renowned relic — a massive 15-meter-tall bronze statue of the Great Buddha dating back to 751 AD.
Another must-see place to visit in Nara is Nara Park. This park covers 600 hectares and is best known for the free-roaming deer and world-famous temples.
- Best for: Those who want to feed and see the dear roam freely and explore famous temples
- Tourist favorite: Purchase the special crackers on sale all year round to feed the adorable deer.
- Top tip: Nara Park is super central, so all city center buses make stops in and around the park. It may be beneficial to consider purchasing a Japan tourist card to help save on public transportation costs.
Explore Japan’s top destinations and stay connected with Holafly
One of the main issues you might encounter when traveling to Japan is the language barrier. This could lead to misunderstandings or even unintentional disrespect, as it can make it difficult to get places, ask for food recommendations, and simply communicate with the locals.
In order to be able to use translation and navigation apps, you need a reliable internet connection. Some of the best eSIMs in Japan can help you with this; similarly, Holafly’s Japan eSIM offers:
- unlimited data
- 24/7 customer support
- cost-effective prices with no hidden fees or roaming charges
Opt for a Holafly eSIM, especially on your first trip to Japan, and make your experience the best.
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Born and raised in Queens, New York, I'm a Psychology graduate with a passion for writing that I've been nurturing since 2019. Over the years, I've enjoyed creating meaningful content across various niches, including sports, hospitality, and career development. At Holafly, I focus on crafting useful and inspiring pieces to make your adventures more effortless. One of the best perks of this role? Creating travel content always seems to inspire my next vacation destination!
