Japan Travel Guide: Tokyo, Osaka & Mount Fuji

28 Sep 2026

Japan offers an unforgettable mix of ancient traditions, modern cities, scenic landscapes and exceptional food. This Japan travel guide covers Tokyo, Osaka and Mount Fuji, helping you plan a balanced itinerary for your first visit.

Best time to visit Japan

Spring is popular for cherry blossoms, while autumn brings colourful foliage and comfortable temperatures. Summer is lively but can be hot and humid. Winter is excellent for snowy scenery, seasonal food and fewer crowds in many destinations.

Tokyo travel guide

Tokyo is a vast capital where futuristic neighbourhoods sit alongside historic temples and quiet gardens. Spend time exploring Asakusa and Senso-ji, the Shibuya crossing area, Meiji Shrine, Harajuku and the shopping districts of Ginza or Shinjuku.

Top things to do in Tokyo

• Visit Senso-ji Temple and explore traditional Asakusa.
• See the city from a Tokyo observation deck.
• Walk through Meiji Shrine and nearby Harajuku.
• Enjoy sushi, ramen, izakaya dishes and local sweets.
• Take a day trip to a nearby destination such as Nikko or Kamakura.

Osaka travel guide

Osaka is known for its friendly atmosphere, lively food culture and energetic nightlife. Explore Dotonbori, visit Osaka Castle and discover the markets and small restaurants around Kuromon Ichiba. The city is also a convenient base for visiting Kyoto and Nara.

Top things to do in Osaka

• Try takoyaki and okonomiyaki in Dotonbori.
• Visit Osaka Castle and its surrounding park.
• Explore the neon streets beside the Dotonbori canal.
• Spend a day at Universal Studios Japan if it suits your plans.
• Take short trips to Kyoto, Nara or Himeji.

Mount Fuji travel guide

Mount Fuji is Japan's iconic volcanic landmark and a highlight of many itineraries. Popular viewing areas include the Fuji Five Lakes region, Hakone and viewpoints around the Shinkansen route. Clear mornings often provide the best chance of seeing the mountain.

Ways to experience Mount Fuji

• Stay near Lake Kawaguchi for classic lake and mountain views.
• Relax in a traditional hot spring in Hakone.
• Visit a Fuji viewpoint or pagoda for memorable photographs.
• Plan a climb only during the official climbing season and check current safety guidance.

Suggested Japan itinerary

1. Spend three to four days exploring Tokyo.
2. Travel to the Mount Fuji area for one or two nights.
3. Continue to Osaka for two to three days.
4. Add Kyoto or Nara as a day trip or extend the journey if possible.

Getting around Japan

Japan's trains are efficient and connect the main tourist destinations. Reserve seats on busy routes when possible, allow time for transfers and keep your luggage manageable. An IC travel card is useful for local transport, while the value of a nationwide rail pass depends on your exact route and travel dates.

Japan travel tips

• Carry some cash because smaller businesses may not accept every card.
• Learn basic etiquette, including quiet behaviour on trains and proper temple manners.
• Check luggage forwarding services if travelling between several cities.
• Reserve popular restaurants, attractions and hotels during peak seasons.
• Keep your itinerary flexible for weather, especially around Mount Fuji.
• Try regional specialities instead of eating only familiar dishes.

Final thoughts

Tokyo, Osaka and Mount Fuji each offer a different view of Japan. Combine Tokyo's urban energy, Osaka's food and entertainment, and the natural beauty around Mount Fuji for a memorable first trip.