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A special feature on first-time visitors to Japan.
Temples and shrines, castles, townscapes, night views. Let's start with some of Japan's classic must-see destinations.
JEPS / Special Feature / First-Time Tourist in Japan
TRAVEL THEME GUIDE
Choose the places you want to go based on the purpose of your trip.
This feature is for those traveling to Japan for the first time or those who want to visit classic tourist spots. We've compiled a list of places where you can easily experience quintessential Japanese scenery, such as historical temples and shrines, castles, World Heritage sites, townscapes, and night views.
FIND YOUR STYLE
Search based on your mood
Popular tourist spots tend to get crowded, so choosing morning hours or weekdays will make it easier to walk around. Avoid cramming too much into one day, and take your time exploring one area at a time; this will increase your satisfaction.
Search by the scenery you want to see.
Search by how you want to plan your trip.
PICK UP
First, the spots you'll want to see
We have prepared three entrances, each with a different feel, to match the theme.
Kiyomizu temple
A historical spot that you'll want to visit as one of Kyoto's most representative landmarks.
Himeji castle
This is one of Japan's most famous castles, with its impressive white keep.
Miyajima Island and Itsukushima Shrine
A famous spot in western Japan where you can enjoy a shrine built on the sea and island walks.
HOURLY RECOMMEND
Recommended spot
Multiple recommended spots will be displayed, and the sorting order will automatically change every hour.
Kiyomizu temple
Explore the quintessential Kyoto scenery and history.
Himeji castle
Visit some of Japan's most famous castles.
Miyajima Island and Itsukushima Shrine
Visiting landscapes of the sea and faith.
Shirakawa-go
Visit a village with traditional gassho-zukuri houses.
Nikko Toshogu Shrine
The magnificent architecture and sense of history are palpable.
Ise Shrine Naiku
To the sacred site that is the heart of the Ise pilgrimage.
Hakodate mountain night view
Enjoy the night view overlooking the city and the sea.
Kurashiki Bikan Area
Walking through the townscape with its white walls and along the river.
BEFORE YOU GO
Things to check before you go out
Checking the season, weather, traffic, and peak hours will make it easier to plan your trip.
The best time to visit and opening hours vary depending on the season.
Check for parking, public transportation, and shuttle service availability.
We'll also consider times that are easier to move around in, such as morning or evening.
Plan your trip to include meals, hot springs, and accommodation.
NEXT TRIP
From a place that interests you, on to your next journey.
From the details page, you can create your travel itinerary by combining it with nearby sightseeing and accommodation.
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Accommodations you might want to compare as well
For your first trip to Japan, comparing accommodations near train stations, close to historical sites, and places to stay where you can enjoy the scenery and food will make it easier to plan a classic itinerary without feeling rushed.
- Garden Hotel Kanazawa – Located just a 1-minute walk from Kanazawa Station East Exit, this hotel offers easy access to popular tourist attractions such as gardens and teahouse districts.
- Iwakuni International Tourist Hotel – This inn offers views of Kintaikyo Bridge and is ideal for combining sightseeing at Iwakuni Castle and other historical sites with relaxing hot springs.
- Miyagi Prefecture Matsushima Rikyu – This tourist facility offers a rooftop and garden overlooking Matsushima Bay, allowing visitors to enjoy both scenery and culture.
- Celebration Inn Juan – This is a hot spring inn in Nikko's Kawaji Onsen where you can enjoy 100% natural hot spring water and traditional Japanese cuisine.
FAQ
First-Time Traveler to Japan Special Feature | What kind of inbound tourists are suited to a classic tour visiting popular landmarks?
Our special feature for first-time travelers to Japan, "Classic Trips to Must-See Sights," is perfect for travelers who want to compare accommodations, sightseeing, experiences, and regional stays in Japan. Considering your travel purpose, companions, and travel time will help you narrow down your options.
Before viewing information related to our "First-Time Traveler to Japan" feature, which covers classic sightseeing spots, is there anything you should check?
Please check the opening days, access information, booking conditions, seasonal variations, weather impacts, and the latest official announcements. For pricing and service details, it is best to prioritize information from each facility or their official sources.
What else can be compared using JEPS?
JEPS allows you to compare accommodations, experience facilities, surrounding attractions, and regional travel information. Reference information: JEPS features a collection of classic spots that are easy to use even for first-time visitors to Japan, such as Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Himeji Castle, Miyajima/Itsukushima Shrine, Shirakawa-go, Nikko Toshogu Shrine, Ise Grand Shrine, Hakodateyama night view, and Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter.
Resources
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