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Japan is one of the most appealing travel destinations in the world. From the historic streets of Kyoto to the dazzling districts of futuristic Tokyo, to natural wonders like Mt Fuji and the Seto Inland Sea to manmade icons like Himeji Castle and the floating Itsukushima Shrine, the best places to visit in Japan offer a world of awe and wonder within the island nation.

Whether you’re exploring Japanese cuisine through Osaka’s Kuromon Market or a high end kaiseki meal in Kyoto, experiencing the glorious autumnal foliage or the spring cherry blossoms, watching the world-famous tuna auctions at Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo or catching a sumo wrestling match during the season, Japan is a feast for the senses.

The icing on the cake is that Japan is one of the easiest countries to travel in the world, with efficient public transport, incredibly clean streets and public spaces, low crime and seamless technological innovations making it easier than ever to travel Japan as a foreigner.

After visiting Japan twice, I’ve shared in this guide to some of the best places to visit in Japan, based on my own personal experience. It’s one of my favourite countries to travel to, and I return home from every trip with a list of new places to visit on my next trip!

1. Kyoto

Kyoto was the Imperial capital of Japan for more than 1000 years, creating a legacy of incredible art, architecture, culture & cuisine. Kyoto was spared from the WWII bombing which flattened many other Japanese cities, including Tokyo and Osaka, which makes it one of the few Japanese cities with well-preserved historic buildings and streetscapes. 

Kyoto is home to some of the most impressive temples and temple gardens in Japan, including Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion), the Higashiyama historic districts, the Arashiyama bamboo grove and the famous red gates of the Fushimi Inari Shrine.

We spent 3 full days in Kyoto, which was a wonderful introduction to the city. 

Kyoto Travel Guide For First Time Visitors

2. Tokyo

Tokyo is the largest city in the world, with a population of 37 million – with 50% more people than all of Australia! Tokyo is a true metropolis, with a dizzying array of things to see, do & eat, from futuristic Shibuya to historic Yanaka, to trendy Harajuku and luxurious Ginza.

Some of the best things to do in Tokyo include visiting the Tsukiji Fish Market, visiting the Meiji Shrine and Senso-Ji Temple, and diving into Japanese cuisine across the city.

We spent a week in Tokyo on our first visit, which gave us plenty of time to explore different neighbourhoods in this mega-city, but I’ve also written a guide for 3 days in Tokyo to help you get the most out of a shorter trip.

Itinerary: 3 Days in Tokyo for First Time Visitors

3. Osaka

Osaka’s reputation for food & fun precedes it, and it completely lives up to the hype. Osaka is only a 15-minute bullet train from Kyoto, but it has a totally different energy. Osaka is known for being very down to earth, a little bit rowdy, and totally food obsessed – and after spending 2 days in Osaka, I can see why!

I have never seen so many restaurants in my life, as in Osaka, and a delicious dish seemed to be waiting around every corner – just begging to be eaten!

Some of the best things to do in Osaka include seeing the Dotonbori Canal precinct lit up at night, eating your way around the Kuromon Market, visiting the Osaka Aquarium and seeing Osaka Castle.

Itinerary: 2 Days in Osaka for First Time Visitors

4. Miyajima

For a totally different experience to visiting Japan’s major cities, look no further than the sacred island of Miyajima. Located just off the coast of Hiroshima, Miyajima is home to the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, which appears to float in water at high tide and is a symbol of Japan. 

You can visit Miyajima on a day trip from Hiroshima, but we stayed overnight.

It was incredibly beautiful to see Miyajima in the evening, after the crowds had departed with the last ferry, and it gave us time to climb Mt Misen in the morning. The view from Mt Misen is beautiful, overlooking the bay of Hiroshima and the Seto Inland Sea.

5. Hiroshima

Hiroshima is a household name for its tragic history, as one of the two Japanese cities which was decimated by the atomic bomb during WWII. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum attracts more than 1.7 million visitors per year to Hiroshima, but there is so much more to discover beyond the Peace Park and the A-Bomb Dome.

Some of my favourite things to do in Hiroshima included Okonomi-mura, the Shukkien Garden, and Hiroshima Castle.

Hiroshima Travel Guide for First Time Visitors

6. Himeji Castle 

Himeji Castle is the largest and most beautiful castle in Japan, and one of the best-preserved. Located in the town of Himeji, Himeji Castle is an easy day trip from Kyoto, Osaka and Hiroshima, if you take the Shinkansen (bullet train).

Himeji Castle is a national treasure, and one of the most iconic places to visit in Japan. When visiting Himeji Castle, you can climb the seven stories of the Main Keep (main castle building), as well as tour other buildings on the grounds.

After visiting the castle, visit Koko-en garden next to Himeji Castle, which is one of the most beautiful gardens in Japan.

7. Mt Fuji

Mt Fuji is a national icon, making it one of the best places to visit in Japan. You can visit Mt Fuji on a day trip from Tokyo, which is easiest when you book a guided tour.

Most tours will take you to the Fifth Station, which is the highest point on Mt Fuji that is accessible by motor vehicle. At the Fifth Station, there is a cafe and facilities, and some walking trails through wooded areas. If you’re looking to take an iconic photograph of Mt Fuji, make sure a photo stop is included on your tour. 

Further Reading

• 10 Days in Japan: Kyoto, Osaka, Miyajima & Hiroshima
• 15 Best Japanese Foods & Drinks to Try in Japan
• Itinerary: 1 Week in Tokyo + Mt Fuij Day Trip
• 2 Days in Osaka + Himeji Castle Day Trip
• Kyoto Travel Guide
• Itinerary: 3 Days in Kyoto
• Hiroshima Travel Guide

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