Destinations & Itineraries
Where to go on a first trip, how long to give each place, and when to travel. Every city guide is written for someone who has never been.
City guides
05 guides
Photo: ShutterstockTokyo for first-timers
How to split up the world's biggest city: which neighbourhoods to base in and what to see in 3–4 days.
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Photo: ShutterstockKyoto for first-timers
Temples, gardens and geisha districts — and how to see them without the crowds.
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Photo: ShutterstockOsaka for first-timers
Japan's kitchen: street food, nightlife, and the perfect base for Kyoto, Nara and Kobe.
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Photo: ShutterstockHokkaido for first-timers
Powder snow in winter, lavender fields in summer, and the best seafood in Japan.
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Photo: ShutterstockOkinawa for first-timers
Subtropical islands with their own culture, food and some of Asia's best snorkelling.
Read the guide →Itineraries
03 guides
Photo: ShutterstockThe 7-day first-timer route: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka
Three cities, one Shinkansen spine — paced for a first visit.
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Photo: ShutterstockThe 10-day Golden Route
The 7-day loop plus Hakone and Mount Fuji, Nara and a night in a ryokan.
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Photo: ShutterstockOff-the-beaten-path add-ons
One- to three-day side trips that bolt onto a classic route.
Read the guide →Seasons
03 guides
Photo: ShutterstockCherry blossom season (sakura)
When and where the blossoms peak, and how to plan around the crowds.
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Photo: ShutterstockAutumn leaves (koyo)
The underrated season: cool weather, clear skies and red maples.
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Photo: ShutterstockSnow season: skiing, festivals and onsen
December to March — powder, snow monkeys and hot springs.
Read the guide →Hotels & Stay