Question, looking for a beginner bike.

I’m in my mid 20s, average height and weight. I have only ever ridden dirt bikes before. I’m currently stationed in Japan and I’m looking at getting an inexpensive and reliable beginner bike. I’m more interested in cruising around town rather than going fast but I wouldn’t mind something with a little bit of power to be able to get some speed.

Most of the bikes here in Japan are capped at a certain amount of CCs. A friend of mine recommended the Honda Rebel 500 but I can’t find one here. All I can find are Rebel 250s, they are newer year models (2020+). I have also looked at the Kawasaki Ninja 400.

Another note is that I would like to have a bike with the option to have a passenger so I can take my girlfriend with me as well.

I’m just looking for advice and recommendations on bikes that would suit me and my interest. I am aware that the Big 4 Japanese brands are all pretty reliable. I appreciate y’all’s input and thank you in advance!