Translation guide
Expressing that you are doing something for the first time in Japanese involves specific grammar patterns and adverbs. The most common way is using the phrase 初めて (hajimete) with a verb, but there are also other expressions like 初 (hatsu) + noun or the pattern 〜のは初めてです (〜no wa hajimete desu).
Expressing that an action is being done for the first time, without specifying what it is.
This is the most common way to say 'doing something for the first time'. 初めて (hajimete) is an adverb meaning 'for the first time', placed before the verb.
I ate sushi for the first time.
I'm going to Japan for the first time.
This pattern nominalizes the verb with の and states that it is the first time. It emphasizes the experience itself.
This is my first time eating sushi.
Used with certain nouns to mean 'first ~'. Common in set phrases like 初体験 (first experience), 初来日 (first visit to Japan). More formal or written.
Literally 'for the first time since being born', used for dramatic emphasis on a truly unprecedented experience.
I saw Mt. Fuji for the first time in my life.
Specifying the activity that is being done for the first time.
States that a particular thing or activity is a first-time experience. The noun can be an activity like 寿司 (sushi) or 旅行 (travel).
This is my first time having sushi.
This is my first overseas trip.
Used to describe a noun as being one's first. Often used in phrases like 初めての経験 (first experience) or 初めての海外旅行 (first overseas trip).
It's my first overseas trip.
Inquiring whether someone is doing something for the first time.
A simple and common way to ask 'Is this your first time?'.
Is this your first time in Japan?
Is this your first time eating sushi?
A more explanatory or curious way to ask, often used when you suspect it's their first time.
Is this your first time here?
Do not directly translate 'for the first time' as 最初の時 (saisho no toki) or 第一回 (dai ikkai). These are not natural for expressing personal first-time experiences. Use 初めて (hajimete) instead.
初めて (hajimete) is an adverb meaning 'for the first time' and is used with actions. 最初 (saisho) means 'first' in a sequence or 'at first', and is not used to say 'I did X for the first time'. For example, 最初に寿司を食べた means 'I ate sushi first (before other things)', not 'I ate sushi for the first time'.
I ate sushi first (before other dishes).
I ate sushi for the first time.
I tried natto for the first time yesterday.
Is this your first time driving in Japan?
日本に行くのは初めてです。
This is my first time going to Japan.
It was a first experience.
It was a first experience.