What parts of Japan are great to see?

Hi everyone, I was planning on going to Japan after I graduate from 4 years of College, but I was wondering, where would be great place to visit if I was going for my first time?

I recommend to see Tokyo and Kyoto on your first visit:
http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2400.html
http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e623a.html

Thank you very much, Uji. I'll be sure to check these links out.

Tokyo and Kyoto/Osaka are always nice for a first trip to get a taste for the country. It also depends how many days you plan to stay and whether you are more interested in immersing yourself in the more modern aspects or older cultural aspects.

If you plan on staying in the Kansai area, Nara and Hikone are rather nice day trips from Kyoto. Hikone castle is one of the few original castles in Japan (as in not a concrete rebuild). I usually recommend it over Himeiji. The castle museum containing many of the Ii family's treasures is a must see. :)

Most trips seem to consist of Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, and Hiroshima but what parts are great to see depends on your interests and the length of your stay. The most popular cities are not necessarily the ''best''. You could spend all your time in Kyushu, Shikoku, Tohoku, or Chugoku areas and still have an amazing experience. Form your itinerary around your interests!

If I were to list the places that are a must see, I would list:
- Kyoto
- Miyajima
- Nara
- Kamakura
- Nikko
- Matsushima
and of course Tokyo
It very much depends on how much time you intend to spend there, your interests and of course on your budget

If you are only interested in seeing the main sites Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, etc. are good. But if you would like to get a different view of Japan I recommend the Kii Peninsula. There are lots of sacred sites with great atmosphere. At Koyasan you can even stay at a temple.

If you go to the south of the Peninsula there is the Kumano Sanzan Shrines and some ancient pilgrimage routes to walk. So if you want to be more of an active tour this is great.

There are also lots of onsen (hot springs) in the area. Visiting a onsen is also a must do for visitors looking to experience the culture of Japan. Here is a great website on the Kumano area. They have maps and bus timetables in English.

http://www.tb-kumano.jp/en/

Have fun!