One of the questions we receive the most is, “Where should I stay for my first time in Japan?” There’s no easy answer here. A lot depends on your preferences, which, again, an advisor will take into account when designing your dream itinerary. 

Looking through our list of the best places to stay in Japan is a good start, though, and the below choices are ideal destinations for first timers, too.

Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka are the top places to visit in Japan for first timers if you only have 1 week

Most Japan first timers travel to Tokyo, Kyoto or Osaka. These three cities represent the best of Japan’s urban experience, with a unique blend of traditional and contemporary Japanese culture. 

Tokyo has the most to offer, especially if you want to sample as much as possible, or if you’re looking for Japan’s best nightlife. Kyoto leans toward traditional Japanese culture and architecture. Osaka is similar, but its central location and harbor have cultivated an incredible gastronomic scene.

Any of the three places is an ideal choice if you’re only able to spend one week in Japan

Is Japan a good destination for first-time travelers?

Japan, admittedly, can be a little overwhelming for first-time travelers; life here is very different from in the United States. But that doesn’t mean Japan is not an amazing destination. Careful planning can go a long way in ensuring you have an incredible experience.

Japan is renowned for its delicate cherry blossoms and mesmerizing bamboo forests, but that’s only the beginning of the country’s charms. From the snowy wilderness of Hokkaido to the tropical forests of Okinawa, Japan has enough natural wonders to keep you in awe. The biodiversity of Yakushima and the “snow monsters” of Mount Zaō are sure to impress even the most seasoned travelers. Come explore some of the most stunning places across the country’s 47 prefectures.

• Best tourist destination: Tottori Sand Dunes
• Underrated hidden gem: Iya Valley
• Best for families: Lake Kawaguchi
• Best for couples: Northern Alps
• Best for solo travelers: Yakushima

Tottori Sand Dunes, Tottori

The enormous sand dunes on the Tottori coast have an otherworldly quality. The surreal scenery is also the inspiration for Kōbō Abe’s 1962 novel (and later film) “The Woman in the Dunes.” Sandboarding and paragliding are popular at the Tottori Sand Dunes, and travelers can learn all about sand sculptures when visiting the Sand Museum.

Iya Valley, Tokushima, Shikoku

The remote and isolated Iya Valley was an escape for the retreating Heike samurai clan. The valley is characterized by plunging gorges, verdant mountains with terraced farms, centuries-old thatched-roof farmhouses, and suspended woven vine bridges swaying precariously over rushing rivers.

Lake Kawaguchi, Yamanashi

Part of the Fuji Five Lakes area, Lake Kawaguchi offers exceptional views of Japan’s most revered mountain, often perfectly reflected in the water’s glassy surface on a clear day. The lake is a destination for pleasure seekers who come here to walk, cycle, and boat. Campgrounds abound, as do numerous hot spring hotels offering thermal baths with open-air views of the mountain. In spring, you can find cherry blossoms blooming along the lakeside.

Northern Alps, Nagano

Multiday treks are possible along Japan’s Northern Alps, which stretch across four prefectures. The Panorama Ginza route is a three-day hike ending at an 8,769-foot summit. Along the way, you’ll enjoy dramatic views, starry skies, alpine flora, and you might even spot some endangered birds. End your day with a visit to one of the area’s many onsen, where you can soak in the natural hot springs and also spend the night.

Yakushima, Kagoshima, Kyushu

The green island of Yakushima, off the southern tip of Kyushu’s Kagoshima Prefecture, is known for its biodiversity and draws visitors looking for outdoor adventures. It is home to native deer and monkeys not found elsewhere, as well as ancient cedars and migrating turtles and dolphins. One-fifth of the island is a dedicated UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the heady mix of subtropical forest, hot springs, and dozens of peaks of more than 3,000 feet served as major inspiration for the Studio Ghibli animators of “Princess Mononoke.”

Japan has a reputation as an expensive places to travel, but it’s an image that doesn’t hold up on the ground.

With a little strategy, a visit can be very reasonable – budget-friendly, even. Many of the country’s major sights, for example, cost nothing, and free festivals take place year-round.

With these top tips on finding the best-value places to stay, the right transportation tickets and places to eat that suit all tastes and wallets, you can make your yen go further on a visit to Japan.

Conclusion

Japan offers a rich tapestry of destinations that blend traditional culture, modern innovation, and natural beauty. From the bustling streets of Tokyo and Osaka to the serene temples of Kyoto and Nara, there’s something for every type of traveler. Nature lovers can explore the breathtaking landscapes of Hokkaido’s mountains, the tranquil beauty of Okinawa’s beaches, or the stunning views of Mount Fuji. Whether you’re captivated by ancient traditions, eager to experience cutting-edge technology, or simply enjoy exploring vibrant cities, Japan’s diverse regions and attractions make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both adventure and cultural immersion.

Follow us on

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ABKAots.Thiruvanmiyur

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/abkomrjapaneselanguageschool

Linkedin https://in.linkedin.com/company/abk-aots-dosokai-omr-japanese-languageschool

YouTube https://youtube.com/@abkomrjapaneselanguageschool?si=MdM9sTED16WndXS0

check out the previous blogs in this series

https://abkaots-th.com/unique-importance-of-japanese-language-part-1/
https://abkaots-th.com/top-5-famous-japanese-words
https://abkaots-th.com/how-safety-is-japan-part-1/
https://abkaots-th.com/top-5-important-universities-for-ug-and-pg-courses/
https://abkaots-th.com/advantages-of-other-country-low-birth-rate-in-japan/
https://abkaots-th.com/famous-japanese-food-across-the-world-part-1/