Where to wander

Japan's most beginner-friendly destinations.

From neon megacity to powder-snow north, hand-picked starting points for first-time Japan travelers.

MidBeginner-friendly

Mar–May, Oct–Nov

Tokyo

Neon-lit megacity of endless discovery

MidBeginner-friendly

Apr (cherry blossom), Nov (autumn)

Kyoto

Ancient capital of temples and tea

BudgetBeginner-friendly

Mar–May, Sep–Nov

Osaka

Japan's kitchen and comedy capital

BudgetBeginner-friendly

Mar–May, Oct–Nov

Nara

Ancient temples and friendly deer

Mid

Jul–Sep (climbing), Oct–Feb (clear views)

Mt. Fuji & Hakone

Sacred peak and hot-spring escape

Mid

Dec–Mar (ski), Jun–Aug (lavender)

Hokkaido

Powder snow, seafood, lavender fields

Mid

Apr–Jun, Sep–Oct

Okinawa

Tropical beaches and Ryukyu culture