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Curator’s statement
An incredibly unique country known for iconic cherry blossoms, impeccable cuisine (400+ Michelin star restaurants), fantastic hiking for all levels, remarkable skiing, a shopping paradise and 23 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, there is something for every type of traveler! I took a solo trip to Japan in September and it is one of my absolute favorite destinations in the world. As a first timer, a trip to Japan can seem a bit intimidating, but I urge you to go. You will leave Japan eager to return again!
The Fora Difference
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Killer perks
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Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay in Japan
Grand Hyatt Tokyo
Sleek high-rise property in the heart of Tokyo with elegant rooms and suites.
Fora Perks
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$100 food / beverage credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
The Tokyo Station Hotel
Where timeless elegance meets modern luxury, nestled in the heart of the bustling city, inside an iconic landmark.
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Daily breakfast.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Hyatt Regency Kyoto
Discover contemporary luxury and Japanese heritage at Hyatt Regency Kyoto, where elegant accommodations, traditional design, and a serene location near temples and historic landmarks offer a truly memorable stay in the cultural heart of Kyoto, Japan.
Fora Perks
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Complimentary platform pick-up or send off service from Kyoto station.
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$100 food / beverage credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fauchon Hotel Kyoto
A luxurious and stylish hotel in the heart of Kyoto, offering a blend of French elegance and Japanese tradition, along with exceptional dining experiences.
Imperial Hotel Tokyo
A renowned luxury hotel located in Tokyo, Japan, known for its rich history, impeccable service, and iconic architecture.
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Things to do in Japan
Food tour
As a country known for its impeccable cuisine, I would highly encourage you to do at least one food tour. My personal recommendation would be to take a Best of Shibuya Food tour. This is a small group guided walking tour (3 hours) off-the-beaten path, stopping at some of the hidden gems that only the locals go to. This is also a great way for you to explore Shibuya on foot, known for the Shibuya crossing location.
Mt. Fuji
Take a full-day small group or private tour with a guide to Mt. Fuji and Hakone with a Japanese-style lunch included. I took this tour with a small group and had a wonderful experience meeting fellow travelers. A visit to Mt. Fuji is a must-do on your first trip to Japan.
Cooking class
Take a Private Traditional Japanese Cooking Class with a local. Cooking classes are a fun way to immerse yourself in the local culture while learning something new and eating delicious food. You will learn to make 3 to 5 authentic Japanese dishes from scratch (2 hours).
Shibuya Sky
Head up to Shibuya Sky (46th) floor for a 360-degree panoramic view of Tokyo. You can purchase tickets four weeks in advance for The Roof Shibuya Sky, which includes seats at the rooftop bar with your choice of drinks or champagne.
Private Guided Tour of Tokyo
As a first timer in Japan, who may be nervous navigating the public transportation, I would highly recommend a fully-customizable, private 4-hour or 8-hour Private Guided Tour of Tokyo. The options are endless — choosing between temples and shrines, Tsukiji fish market, shopping excursions, Imperial Palace with lunch at a local restaurant. This is a great way to increase your confidence navigating Tokyo as a first-timer.
Kyoto
As a first-timer in Japan, you absolutely want to spend a few days exploring Kyoto. I would recommend a Kyoto Private 6-hour tour with an English-speaking driver, no guide. Kyoto was a true highlight for me, with stops at the Kiyomizu temple and Arashiyama with its towering bamboo forest.
Hiroshima
For a historical experience, take a full-day group or a private tour to Hiroshima and Miyajima Island. You will visit sites like the Peace Park and A-Bomb Dome.
Ginza
For the shoppers, head to Ginza for the best luxury shopping in Tokyo.
Tokyo Tower
Head up the Tokyo Tower for a TopDeck Tour. I prefer the skyline views at night for some fabulous photos.
teamLab Planets
A final must-do in Tokyo is to get tickets to the teamLab Planets TOKYO: Digital Art Museum. This is not your traditional museum; it is an immersive experience with digital art installations designed to stimulate all five senses.
Day Trips
Recommended day trips for a first timer in Japan would include a visit to Mt. Fuji & Hakone, Nikko National Park and Hiroshima and Miyajima’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites.
Places to eat & drink in Japan
With 400+ Michelin-starred restaurants, dining in Japan is truly a foodie's dream. From my own personal experience, don't overdo it on the sushi on day one. Tokyo dinner options:
Ryuzu
Sushi Ishiyama
When in Japan, a unique experience is to try a conveyor belt sushi restaurant; for this one I would recommend Nemuro Hanamaru KITTE Marunouchi.
Tokyo bars:
The Peak Bar (inside the Park Hyatt)
Kyoto dinner options:
Teppanyaki Manryu.
The food scene in Japan is so incredibly amazing, you really can't go wrong!
Need to Know
Navigating Japan as a first-timer can seem intimidating, but it doesn't have to be. I am happy to arrange a private airport transfer for you to and from your selected hotels, in addition to the various tour options with hotel pick-ups offered. While in Japan, you absolutely must ride the bullet train at least once because that in itself is an unforgettable experience!
Looking for more Japan travel inspo? Check out Travel Advisor Cindy La's guide, Exploring Japan: Things to Do in Osaka, Tokyo & Kyoto.
Travel Advisor
Katie Anderson
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Japan.