Planning your first trip to Japan can feel exciting and overwhelming at the same time.
There are so many incredible places to visit, delicious foods to try, and unforgettable cultural experiences waiting for you.
After my first trip to Japan, and a few places I discovered on my second visit, these are the spots I would wholeheartedly recommend for first-time visitors.
From peaceful temples and iconic landmarks to lively food markets and colorful city districts, here is what not to miss on your first Japan itinerary:

Sensō-ji is Tokyo’s oldest and most important temple, and it’s a must-visit on any first trip to Japan.
It was the first temple I visited in Japan, and it immediately set the mood for the rest of my journey.
The atmosphere around Sensō-ji is beautiful, especially as you walk through the traditional shopping street leading up to the temple.
Travel tip: Visit Sensō-ji at night. The crowds are smaller, the temple is beautifully illuminated, and the entire area feels almost magical.

Sumida Park is a lovely place for a walk, especially if you want views of Tokyo Skytree.
It is a relaxed area to explore and works well together with a visit to Asakusa.
Tip: It’s also a good place to enjoy cherry blossoms, when you plan to travel around that season.

Meiji Jingu Shrine

Meiji Jingu Shrine is one of the most peaceful places in Tokyo.
Even though it is located in the heart of the city, the moment you enter the surrounding forest, everything feels calm and quiet.
It’s a wonderful place to slow down, enjoy nature, and take a break from Tokyo’s busy streets.
In addition, the colorful sake barrels near the entrance are also worth seeing and make a great photo spot.

If you love Japanese street food, Tsukiji Outer Market should definitely be on your Tokyo itinerary.
Here, you can try freshly prepared seafood, snacks, sweets, and other local specialties right in front of you.
It is a great place to visit in the morning, especially if you want to taste a little bit of everything.
Be warned: it tends to get crowded around lunchtime.

Tokyo Tower is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
For a relaxed visit, take a stroll through Shiba Park and enjoy the view of the tower from below.
Tip: Tokyo Tower is especially beautiful in the evening, when it lights up and creates one of the most classic nighttime views in Tokyo.

Gotokuji Temple is the perfect Tokyo hidden gem for cat lovers.
Famous for its many lucky cat statues, this peaceful temple is located a little outside central Tokyo, but it is absolutely worth the trip.
And who knows — maybe you will be lucky enough to meet a real-life kitty there too.

Higashi Honganji Temple is a beautiful historic temple in Kyoto with spacious and peaceful grounds.
It’s a lovely place for a quiet walk and also offers a great view of Kyoto Tower.
Because of its central location, it’s easy to add to your Kyoto itinerary, especially if you are staying near Kyoto Station.

Fushimi Inari Taisha is one of Kyoto’s most famous attractions and a true Japan travel classic.
The thousands of red torii gates are just as impressive in real life as they look in photos.
Although the lower sections can get very crowded, the further you hike up Mount Inari, the quieter it becomes.
Along the way, you can also take small detours into peaceful side paths, including a beautiful bamboo forest.

Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion and formally called Rokuon-ji, is one of the most spectacular temples in Kyoto.
Originally built as the retirement villa of shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, it was converted into a Zen temple after his death in 1408, following his wishes.
Covered in gold leaf, it looks especially stunning when the sunlight reflects off its surface.
The surrounding garden is also beautifully maintained and makes the visit feel calm and scenic, even when there are many other visitors.

Located in the heart of Kyoto, Yasaka Shrine is a wonderful place to visit during the day or evening.
I especially recommend going at night, when the lanterns are lit and the whole shrine feels warm and atmospheric.
It’s also easy to combine with a walk through Gion or nearby traditional streets.

Kiyomizu-dera is another must-see temple in Kyoto and one of the city’s most famous landmarks.
It became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994 and remains one of the most popular places to visit in Kyoto.
The area around Kiyomizu-dera is also full of small souvenir shops, traditional streets, and beautiful photo spots.
It can get crowded, but it is still absolutely worth visiting.
Tip: If you want to access the famous wooden terrace, you will need to pay a small entrance fee.

Osaka Castle was one of the first Japanese castles I saw on my first trip, and its architecture immediately impressed me.
The castle is surrounded by spacious grounds, making it a beautiful place for a walk and photos.
For a small entrance fee, you can also go inside the castle.
Travel tip: Buy your Osaka Castle tickets online in advance. It can get very crowded, and a pre-booked ticket may help you skip the line.

Dōtonbori is one of the most famous places in Osaka and a must-visit for first-time travelers.
The area is full of street food, restaurants, shops, and bright neon signs.
Make sure to take a photo with the iconic Glico Man sign.
Dōtonbori is especially impressive in the evening or at night, when all the signs along the river light up.

Namba Yasaka Shrine is one of Osaka’s most unique shrines.
As soon as you enter, you will see the enormous lion head stage, which makes this shrine truly unforgettable.
It’s believed that the lion’s giant mouth swallows evil spirits and brings good luck, especially for success in school or business.

Shinsekai, meaning “New World,” is another fascinating area to explore in Osaka.
The district was developed around 1912 and still has a nostalgic, slightly retro atmosphere.
You will find unusual and interesting restaurant storefronts, local food spots, and the famous Tsūtenkaku Tower.
It is a great area for a quick walk, photos, and a very different side of Osaka.

Katsuo-ji is a beautiful temple near Osaka, known for its many Daruma dolls and peaceful mountain setting.
It’s a great addition to your Osaka itinerary if you want to see something a little different from the busy city center.
You can also buy your own Daruma doll there and make a wish on it, which makes a lovely little memory of your visit.

Your first trip to Japan will be full of unforgettable moments, from peaceful temples and shrines to bright city lights, amazing food, and unique cultural experiences.
For a first Japan itinerary, Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka are a perfect combination.
Tokyo gives you the energy of a modern megacity, Kyoto offers tradition and history, and Osaka is ideal for food and nightlife.
No matter how much you plan, Japan will still surprise you in the best possible way.
Leave a little room in your itinerary for spontaneous discoveries — they often become the memories you remember most.