Best places to visit in Japan for first timers to have the best experience traveling to the land of the rising sun!
Are you eager to explore the captivating beauty and rich culture of Japan but don’t know where to start? Look no further!
I traveled to the land of the rising sun in December during Autumn season and these are the best places to visit for first timers that you should not miss!
Discover the curated list of the best places to visit in Japan for first-time visitors. From historic shrines and tranquil gardens to vibrant cities and mouthwatering cuisine, this list shows the perfect destinations for your unforgettable trip to Japan!
So what are you waiting for? Learn where you should go on your first trip to Japan!
This post is all about Best Places To Visit In Japan For First Timers
Best Places To Visit In Japan For First Timers
1. Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kyoto
- Address: 68 Fukakusa Yabunouchicho, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto, 612-0882, Japan
- Why Visit: Visiting the iconic Torri Gates offers a cultural and religious atmosphere that visitors will appreciate and enjoy photographing. Walking through the Torii Gates is a visually unique experience to see the vibrant colors of the Torii Gates and feel the tranquil forest paths with scenic views, where you can also gain insights into traditional Japanese beliefs and practices.
- Tip: To avoid the crowd and take pictures without people, we came here early in the morning at 7:00am.
- Must Know: You can hike through these gates along a scenic trail to get to the top of the mountain. The trail is 2.5 miles long and can take approximately 2-3 hours round trip. However, if you are short on time, you can walk partway up the trail and then turn back.
- Book your experience below: Don’t want to plan or navigate? Here’s a list of Kyoto’s top-rated private and group tours:
2. Hokan-ji Temple – Yasaka Pagoda, Higashima, Kyoto
- Address: Japan, 〒605-0862 Kyoto, Higashiyama Ward, 清水八坂上町388
- Why visit: Seeing traditional architecture offers endless opportunities to immerse yourself in Japanese culture and take stunning photographs. The surrounding area is also a perfect place to feel the cultural and historical atmosphere while in Japan. We saw many people walking around wearing kimono, a traditional Japanese dress. Honestly, this is my favorite location in Kyoto because we spend quite a lot of time here exploring the traditional wooden houses, Japanese shops/stores, and eateries!
- Must Know: Please be mindful of local rules, customs, etiquette, and traditions to show respect and courtesy as a tourist.
- Tip: Some free and delicious samples of Japanese snacks and goodies are being offered as we walk around the surrounding area! Try some! Your Japan trip is incomplete without tasting some green tea matcha-flavored goodies they sell here. Enjoy the flavor! You may want to bring some back home!
Photography Etiquette
- Ask for Permission: I honestly cannot tell if they were real geisha or maiko or if they were dress-up for a day as we walked near Hōkan-ji Temple. However, we saw a few people already taking pictures of them. And since they were near and walking towards where we were taking photos, we politely asked for their permission before taking a picture together. They were kind as they agree for a photo. Please always be respectful and ask for consent.
- Tip: If you want a unique experience while exploring Kyoto in a (kimono) traditional Japanese dress, you can book to rent a kimono. I saw many ladies dressed up in kimono walking around the area. We were going to try it out, but it’s too cold for us. We were also short on time, unfortunately. However, if I were to come back again, I’d do it for a unique experience as this is ONLY in Japan. Make sure you book your experience in advance.
- Book your UNIQUE experience:
- Women-only experience – transform into a geisha with a traditional makeover and photo shoot in Kyoto
- Click for details → Kyoto: Maiko Makeover and Photo Shoot Experience(Women only)
- Kimono Rental Only with dressing and hair styling in Kyoto
- Women-only experience – transform into a geisha with a traditional makeover and photo shoot in Kyoto
3. Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Kyoto
- Address: 1 Chome-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0862, Japan
- Why visit: It’s one of Kyoto’s oldest and most historically and culturally significant temples. It’s a must visit to explore Kyoto’s preserved architecture and traditions. The stunning architecture is a place of worship offering a blend a spiritual experience, historical insight, and natural beauty. Discover Kyoto’s rich cultural and historical heritage while enjoying many photo opportunities when you visit!
- Tip: There are plenty of photo opportunities here! Make sure you walk around the area. This is the perfect place to see both the historical and modern Kyoto. Visit to see and photograph Koyasu Pagodaa, Kiyomizu Stage, Otowa Waterfall, Jishu Shrine and street lanterns. Enjoy the magical experience of seeing illuminated colorful lights when you visit during one of the night-time illumination events.
- Book your experiences:
- Kimono: Want an ultimate cultural experience when visiting famous landmarks in Kyoto? Elevate your Japan travel photos by wearing a kimono for a day!
- Private Tour: 6-hours in Kyoto with Government-Licensed Guide
- Group Tour: Kyoto 1 Day – Enjoy a jam-packed itinerary without worrying about planning
4. Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Kyoto
- Address: Sagaogurayama Tabuchiyamacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8394, Japan
- Why visit: In Japanese culture, Bamboo symbolizes flexibility, tranquility, and strength. Whether you are a nature lover or just curious to see how majestic the bamboo groves are, the Arashiyama bamboo forest is worth visiting! Explore its scenic pathways and be mesmerized by seeing towering bamboo stalks and hear the sound as they sway gently in the wind. The sound creates a soothing and tranquil experience when you visit early mornings or late afternoons.
- Tip: To avoid the crowds and enjoy the peaceful ambiance, visit early mornings or late afternoons. If you have more time, consider walking to explore nearby places such as Tenryu-ji Temple, Okochi-Sanso Villa, and the Togetsukyo Bridge.
- Book your experience: Don’t want to plan or navigate? Choose the top-rated guided private or small group tour below:
5. Osaka Castle
- Address: 1-1 Osakajo, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 540-0002, Japan
- Why visit: Discover the history and architecture while enjoying the picturesque view when you visit! Learn more about its historical and architectural significance and be surprised to discover that the outside of the castle appears five stories tall, but inside, it’s eight stories. You can also visit inside the castle to explore the historical exhibits and get panoramic views of Osaka from the observation deck.
- Tips: The weekdays’ early mornings should usually be the best time to visit to avoid crowds. However, please note when we visited on a weekday before it opened, many incoming students were getting off their field trip buses and arriving early.
- Book your experience: Don’t want to plan or navigate? Choose the top-rated guided private or small group tour below:
6. Osaka Universal Studios Japan
- Address: 2 Chome-1-33 Sakurajima, Konohana Ward, Osaka, 554-0031, Japan
- Why visit: USJ gives exciting adventure and magically happy memories for all ages! The entertainment and services provided at USJ are top-notch, based on my experience. I have been to the Universals in Los Angeles, but I enjoyed Japan more. If you are traveling to Osaka and looking for various attractions, theme parks, and adventure rides all in one place, USJ is a must-visit destination for your first-time visit to Japan.
- Must-Know: Don’t miss the Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride. It’s a fun and thrilling adventure through the world of Harry Potter. It’s one of the best rides worth experiencing!
- Tips:
- Butterbeer: Don’t forget to experience the charm of the wizarding world when visiting the snow-covered rooftops village of Hogsmeade and enjoy a Butterbeer at the Three Broomsticks.
- Maximize your time: Arrive before the park opens and consider purchasing an Express Pass to skip the lines for popular attractions.
- Book your ticket early: Plan your Japan Travel in advance and check/be aware of the showtimes of live performances and parades you want to see.
- Book your experience:
7. Dotonbori in Osaka
- Address: 1 Chome Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0071, Japan
- Why visit: Whether you want to explore the lively and bustling atmosphere or taste various local food, Dotonbori is worth visiting, especially at night when it’s most vibrant with neon lights and illuminated signs. It’s one of the best places to experience while in Osaka by trying local street food, sightseeing neon lights and billboards, cruising along the canal, watching traditional Japanese performances, and shopping for souvenirs and quality Japanese snacks!
- Timing Tip: If you want to see the surrounding area at its brightest, visit at night during weekdays to avoid navigating in crowds.
- Shopping Tip: Don’t forget to bring your passport to get a tax refund! We went shopping here, and it’s tax-free shopping for tourists.
- Visiting Tip: Try as much variety of flavors of local street food here! Everything is good, but my personal favorite is Takoyaki. It’s a hot and fresh round ball of dough filled with pieces of octopus (tako) inside. It’s so delicious!
- Book your experiences:
8. Shinsekai and Tsutenkaku Tower
- Address: 1 Chome-18-6 Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0002, Japan
- Why visit: Enjoy the lively and colorful ambiance around Tsutenkaku, the Eiffel Tower of Osaka. At night, the tower gets beautifully illuminated with changing colors! It’s best to experience and photograph it in the evening. This street is an ideal place to experience the local Osaka culture! Don’t miss trying various kinds of street food and exploring small shops/stores! We enjoyed dinner while tasting delicious delights in the vibrant atmosphere! A must-experience in Japan!
- Must-Know: You can visit the Tsutentaku Tower. It’s best to visit at sunset to catch the view of the city transitioning from day to night.Book your ticket in advance HERE and arrive early.
- Tip: For an unforgettable experience, visit in the evening and taste their famous ‘kushikatsu‘, which is deep-fried meat, vegetables, and seafood on skewers and dipped in a savory sauce! It’s delicious! The local eateries here are affordable with colorful surroundings! We had a sit-down dinner right across from where this picture was taken, with a great view of the tower.
- Food Tip: Next time I visit, I’d consider going on a food tour in Shinsekai because I feel there are places and must-try food I would never have known about how to find and how to order.
- Book your experience: Here’s a top rated food tour in Shinsekai
9. Osaka Castle Park Colorful Trees
- Address: 1-1 Osakajo, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 540-0002, Japan
- Why visit: If you happen to travel to Japan in the Autumn or Spring season, you cannot miss this park! See the colorful autumn trees near Osaka Castle! If you want to see and photograph the vibrant red, orange, and yellow leaves, it’s a must-visit to appreciate Japan’s seasonal beauty! The park offers picturesque surroundings and photo opportunities! Playing with the fallen leaves while taking pictures was a fun way to highlight the beautiful colors and season of Autumn in Japan.
- Tip: Visit during the early morning on weekdays to avoid the crowd. For scenic views of the trees, visit during the peak of the Spring and Autumn seasons.
- Must-Know: There are walking distance places to see colorful trees, a shrine, and a temple by the Osaka Castle. It’s only few minutes walk. We discovered it by accident as were walking around the area and noticed colorful trees. If you visit Japan in the Fall or Spring, I recommend seeing these beautiful seasonal colors of Japanese fall trees and cherry blossoms near Osaka Castle.
- Book your experience: Don’t want to plan or navigate? Choose the top-rated guided private or small group tour below:
10. Midosuji Avenue
- Address: Located in the heart of Osaka ; Chuo-Ku, Shinsaibashisuji Kita-ku to Chuo-ku, Chuo, Osaka 542-0081 Osaka Prefecture
- Why visit: Midosuji Street is most famous for its ginkgo trees-lined sidewalks that turn bright yellow in autumn. The trees are charmingly illuminated in the evening. If you are traveling to Japan in December, don’t miss seeing these vibrant illuminated trees that make the ambiance so magical that it feels like being in the movies! It’s the perfect place to feel the holiday spirit!
- Must Know: There are numerous dining and shopping options along the avenue, where you can also find various landmarks, including the Osaka City Hall, Yodoyabashi Bridge, and the Bank of Japan Osaka Branch
- Tip: We got here by Subway (Osaka Metro Midosuji Line). You can easily access and explore the street through public transportation.
11. Nakanoshima Bridge, Arashiyama, Kyoto, Japan
- Address: Japan, 〒616-0001 Kyoto, Nishikyo Ward, Arashiyama Kamikawaracho, 1 京都嵐山
- Why visit: I think it’s one of the hidden gems in Kyoto that few people know about. Seeing the Nakanoshima Bridge was a surprise! The beautiful scenery while walking on the bridge feels like being in some anime movie or series! I heard and read that the scenery looks even more beautiful during the peak of fall and cherry blossom seasons because of the changing colors of trees along the Katsura River.
- Tip: I found the view at night to be amazing! I don’t know if it’s because there were some festivals and night markets with eateries in the surrounding area when we visited that made our experience memorable. However, walking by the bridge with this scenic view and lively yet peaceful atmosphere made me feel like seeing some anime scene in person! So, I highly recommend visiting this hidden gem if you have time!
12. Kinkakuji Temple
- Address: 1 Kinkakujicho, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8361, Japan
- Why visit: The golden exterior of Kinkaku-ji temple is visually stunning! Its scenic view is a must-see! The temple is most famous for being covered in pure gold leaf. Explore its spiritual and cultural significance as a zen temple and part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don’t miss photographing the Golden Pavilion with the large pond (Kyoko-chi) or Mirror Pond. The reflection creates a glaring and pleasant appearance.
- Tip: Visit early mornings or late afternoons to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Enjoy the unique landscape and explore surrounding shrines, gardens, and teahouses.
- Book your experience: Don’t want to navigate? Choose the top-rated guided private or small group tour below:
13. Yasaka Kōshin-dō Temple
- Address: 390 Kinencho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0828, Japan
- Why visit: See the colorful and bright scenery of Kukurizaru, which are various colors of round cloth balls hanging around the temple. It’s interesting to discover that visitors write their wishes on kukurizaru and hang them in the temple. So, hundreds of these create stunning visuals when you visit the temple! Whether you would like to see and photograph the colorful and intimate ambiance or are just curious about the spiritual practices in Japan, it’s still worth visiting!
- Tip: This temple is easy to visit as it’s only a walking distance from Kiyomizu-dera and Yasaka Shrine. Consider a quick visit while you’re around the area.
14. Kyoto Tower
- Address: Japan, 〒600-8216 Kyoto, Shimogyo Ward, Higashishiokojicho, 721-1
- Why visit: See a 360-degree panoramic view of Kyoto and its surroundings. It’s easily accessible as it’s located near Kyoto Station. Add this to your first-time visit to Japan itinerary if you want to see Kyoto from above. Visit before sunset and watch the city lights up at night for an amazing view. Don’t miss the illuminated temples and shrines view from the top! The observation deck has telescopes and displays to see closer and learn more about Kyoto famous sights.
- Must know: There is a hotel (Kyoto Tower Hotel) within the Kyoto Tower building. If you prefer easy and close access to the station and tower, you can consider staying HERE. Book your stay in advance since it gets fully booked fast!
- Book your experience: Kyoto Tower Admission Ticket
15. Tokyo DisneySea
- Address: 1-13 Maihama, Urayasu, Chiba 279-8511, Japan
- Why visit: It’s the only DisneySea in the world! Experience adventure with beautiful scenery! You won’t be able to find and experience DisneySea in other countries! So, for your first time in Japan, it’s one of the best places to consider visiting! It offers various quality attractions, entertainment, shows/events, and dining experiences for adults and children. It’s a must-visit as it’s considered one of the best theme parks in the world with a unique theme of exploration and adventure by the sea catering to a wide range of visitors of all ages!
- Tips: To help with a smoother and more enjoyable experience at the park
- Be prepared for lots of walking: wear comfortable shoes + clothes and bring a reusable water bottle.
- Check the weather: Bring a sunscreen stick, jacket, umbrella, or a poncho (in case it rains)
- Buy Tickets in advance: Purchase online before your visit to save time and avoid lines at the entrance.
- Consider arriving early at the park before it opens, and as soon as it opens, head directly to the famous attractions! Don’t forget to review and plan to catch the shows!
- Book your experience:
Japan Travel Summary / Key Take-Aways
Here are my top photogenic and beautiful places you should visit on your first time to the rising sun that I recommend you should NOT miss for your first trip to Japan
Top Attractions To Visit in Japan
- Fushimi Inari Taisha
- Hōkanji Temple
- Kiyomizu-dera Temple
- Arashiyama (Bamboo Forest)
- Osaka Castle
- Osaka Universal Studios Japan
- Dotonbori
- Shinsekai and Tsutenkaku Tower
- Osaka Castle Park
- Midosuji Avenue
- Nakanoshima Bridge, Arashiyama, Kyoto
- Kinkakuji Temple
- Yasaka Kōshin-dō Temple
- Kyoto Tower
- Tokyo DisneySea
Bonus:
If you have more time in Japan, consider visiting and/or booking the following experiences:
- Mt. Fuji
- Shibuya Scramble Crossing
- TeamLab
- Senso-ji
- Tokyo Skytree
- Meiji Jingu
- Tokyo Tower
- Ueno Park for Cherry Blossoms
- One Day Tokyo Bus Tour
Summary
Japan is undoubtedly a popular travel destination. It’s definitely for travelers who travel for food and photography. It’s also for those who admire minimalism and are curious about its landmarks, nature, culture, and history. I never met anyone who didn’t have Japan on their travel bucket list because Japan is famous for what people appreciate and wish to experience.
Besides what Japan is well-known for — sushi, ramen, matcha green tea, quality snacks, innovative vending machines, anime, manga, shrines, nature, minimalism, Mt. Fuji, hot springs, and cherry blossoms, the country has unique and distinctive historical sites and cultural landmarks as well as fun attractions for all ages that travelers should consider exploring and adding to their itinerary.
I hope you’ll have fun on your first visit to Japan!
If you have any questions, please feel free to ask. I’d be happy to help in any way I can.
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