most unique places to visit in japan

• Things to Do
• Tourist Spots & Attractions

16 Unique Places in Japan That Are Not Widely Known But Are Absolutely Mesmerizing

Japan is replete with enthralling nature and culture, so it is no wonder that its iconic landmarks and attractions draw visitors from all over. However, if crowds are not your thing or you are looking to experience a more unexplored side of Japan, fret not. There are many fabulous spots that are lesser-known and also offer a rewarding time with their spellbinding beauty and historic value. Read on to learn more about 16 off-the-beaten-path places that offer all different kinds of sights!

This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

1. Noboribetsu Onsen (Hokkaido)

Soaking in an onsen (hot spring) is one of the best ways to experience Japan, as it is a centuries-old custom with deep roots all throughout the country. The northernmost prefecture of Hokkaido is no exception, and to experience piping hot waters that yield a once-in-a-lifetime experience, head over to Noboribetsu Onsen, which is derived from the Ainu word “Nupurupetsu” (dark, cloudy river). Stand transfixed at Noboribetsu Onsen as it furiously spews 10,000 tons of muddy water daily from the nearby Jigokudani Valley, an old crater created by a volcanic eruption around 10,000 years ago. You can thus rest assured that these hot spring waters are freshly delivered to you from Mother Nature!

You can immerse yourself in these muddy waters joyfully, as they are comprised of nine types of water, including salt/saline springs, sulphuric springs, and radium springs! Here, you can treat your skin to rejuvenating detoxification and emerge from the onsen waters, feeling totally cleansed. To complete your trip, you may want to sign up for a night cruise and witness Jigokudani be illuminated and transformed into an eye-catching dreamscape at night.

2. Risshakuji Temple (Yamagata)

Yearning for a place that will offer you an eclectic mix of spiritual solace along with physical activity? Situated in the sky-piercing mountains northeast of Yamagata City, Risshakuji Temple encourages you to have a good workout since you need to climb up 1,015 stone steps from the mountain entrance in order to reach it. You can feel the immense awe building inside of you as you make your way up to the secluded temple, and when you reach your destination you can savor a bird’s eye view of the surrounding majestic mountains. Take in a deep breath, pray to the gods at the temple, and feel a sense of bliss that can only come from being so close to the heavens above.

Aside from its novel location, Risshakuji Temple's claim to fame is a poem crafted by Japan's most famous haiku poet, Basho upon visiting this temple. Apparently, Basho stopped over at Risshakuji temple in the late 1600s and composed the haiku, struck by the poignant silence of the area. If Risshakuji struck even Basho’s fancy and ignited his imagination, there is no arguing that it must possess ethereal vibes. Be sure to visit there to recharge yourself both mentally and spiritually!

3. Frost-Covered Trees of Zao (Yamagata)

Winter enthusiasts will feel right at home in the region of Zao, which is a volcanic mountain range that borders Miyagi and Yamagata. When you visit Zao from mid-January to late February, you will be able to observe an extraordinary phenomenon that feels like a setting in a fantasy novel – fir trees heavily covered with snow for as far as your eyes can see! The snow on these trees is naturally curated by the northwest Siberian wind, thus acting as a stunning cloak.

To obtain a panoramic view of this awesome visual feast, it would be best to take the Zao Ropeway which will transport you to Zao-Sancho Station. Once there, savor the sight of these snow-covered trees standing tall and proud for miles and miles. This spectacle looks so unreal that they are known as the "Zao Snow Monsters." After you get your fill of these monsters, you can engage in winter sports like snowboarding and skiing. Skiing in and out of these monsters will certainly make you feel like a character in an adventure film.

4. Ashikaga Flower Park (Tochigi)

Although offering stunning sights of seasonal flowers all throughout the year, Ashikaga Flower Park in Tochigi Prefecture is famous for its hanging wisteria, creating a mystical sight as you walk among the delicately hanging blossoms while breathing in the sweet scent wafting through the air. Its appeal is not difficult to grasp – in fact, CNN thinks that this flower park is worthy of acclaim and nominated it as one of the world’s top ten dream destinations in 2014.

Come April or May, be sure to pay the park a visit and let your spirits soar as you take in the majestic sight of 350 wisteria trees in bloom. A spectacular riot of differently colored wisteria awaits you, including blue, pink, white, violet, and yellow. Also not to be missed is a hundred-year-old wisteria tree that is so huge that its thick branches have to be supported to create a breathtaking umbrella of blue wisteria flowers. 

5. Mount Kano (Chiba)

For travelers who wish to make Tokyo the focal point of their trip but spend some quality time with nature as well, Mount Kano will be the answer to your prayers. Mount Kano is Chiba Prefecture’s second-highest mountain at 379 meters high and provides breathtaking views of rural Chiba. Although located in close proximity to Tokyo, it allows visitors to envelop themselves in bountiful nature, offering a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

One memorable place you should include in your itinerary is the Kanozan Kujukutani Outlook Park. Overlooking the nearby Kujukutani Valley, this deck offers you first row seats to admire the “unkai'' (sea of clouds) that usually appears in the mornings from late autumn to early spring. You will surely be arrested by the thick, mesmerizing clouds of mist that float over Kujukutani Valley and give rise to this ethereal sight.

6. Sado Island (Niigata)

If you’re a hiking enthusiast, you may gravitate towards the idea of trekking at Sado Island, an island that is chock full of natural attractions. Situated 45 kilometers off the coast of Niigata, it allows you to immerse yourself in verdant forests and crystal-blue seas. Be sure to check out Ishina Natural Cedar Forest, as it gives you the chance to observe various unique birds and flowers. This walkway is also home to gigantic, ancient cedar trees, some of which are hundreds of years old and have been twisted and bent by the elements, lending an otherworldly and mystical touch to the surroundings.

Sado Island offers a microcosm of Japanese history, which will amaze history and culture buffs. For example, the "tarai bune" are a type of boat made from repurposed wash bins and has become a symbol of Sado Island. Visitors can even enjoy rides in these tiny boats, weaving through the waves of the Sea of Japan. Sado Island was also employed as a gold and silver mining location, and you can explore the remnants of these mines and visualize what life must have been like for these determined miners during the Edo (1603 - 1867) period.

7. Hiyo Koke no Sato Moss Garden (Ishikawa)

Hiyo Koke no Sato Moss Garden consists of a huge, vibrant moss garden that will transport you to a transcendental setting that would not be out of place in a Studio Ghibli movie. These heart-stopping stretches of green moss have been lovingly tended by the village residents for generations, thus ensuring its vitality. In fact, they curate the land such that 48 kinds of moss not only coexist seamlessly, but also juxtapose nicely against each other to create a harmonious scene.

In fact, Hiyo Koke no Sato Moss Garden received so much acclaim that the former Japanese emperor personally planted cedar trees during the 66th National Planted Tree Festival. These towering cedar trees only add to the splendid greenery, so why not visit this place that was visited by the emperor himself and be enveloped by the warm embrace of Mother Nature?

8. Karasawa Cirque (Nagano)

Autumn foliage is a beloved seasonal sight in Japan, with popular spots filling up with crowds during the peak season. However, if you prefer to have a picturesque place away from the crowded tourist spots, Karasawa Cirque in Nagano would be an ideal destination from late September to early October. Avid and athletic trekkers may particularly enjoy the challenge of trekking the 30 kilometers that are required to reach Karasawa Cirque. Located 2,300 meters above sea level, the maple leaves will dazzle your eyes with vivid hues of red, yellow, orange, and green against the rocky backdrop of the Japan Alps.

One thing to note: the trek typically takes about six hours, so many visitors choose to pitch their tents or stay overnight at Karasawa Hyutte or Karasawa Goya, both of which are mountain huts. This allows you more time to soak in the tranquility of Karasawa Cirque, breathing in the fresh mountain air.

9. Hamamatsu Flower Park (Shizuoka)

Hamamatsu Flower Park is a botanical garden that hosts over 3,000 different species of plants, offering sights of splendid colors and beautiful collaborations of flowers. One notable pairing is the cherry blossom trees creating a stunning backdrop for the tulip fields, carpeting the ground with a whimsy of colors.

Spring is not the only time one should visit the park, as its seasonal flowers dye the precincts every shade of the rainbow throughout the year. For those who are looking for a leisurely way to enjoy the sights, you can hop on the Flower Train and listen to the explanations provided by the guides, offering an enjoyable and educational experience.

10. Maruyama Senmaida Rice Terraces (Mie)

The Maruyama Senmaida rice terraces are an agricultural wonderland that demonstrates the ingenuity and hard work of the local farmers as they leverage the local climatic and environmental conditions to grow their rice. These terraces rise 100 meters up the sides of the hills, with about 1,340 rice paddies of all shapes and sides carved into the formidable hills.

The terraces offer different sights throughout the year, filling up with water and reflecting the sky during the spring, turning green with fresh rice crops dancing in the wind during the summer, the gold rice crops seemingly glittering during the autumn, and being covered with snow during the winter.

11. Adachi Museum of Art (Shimane)

The Adachi Museum of Art combines the best of art and nature, two rejuvenating and introspective fields, under one roof. Art aficionados and nature lovers should feel right at home, as this museum enables you to develop a profound appreciation of Japanese-style aesthetics with its collection of artworks, including those by Taikan Yokoyama, one of the great masters of Japanese painting.

Its Japanese garden is also in a league of its own, as it has been selected as the best Japanese garden in Japan for many consecutive years by the Journal of Japanese Gardens. Visitors will certainly understand why, as looking out of the windows from the museum will make you feel that the garden is like a pretty painting that portrays the marvels of nature. Stop by the Adachi Museum of Art to experience how art seamlessly intertwines with nature, bringing about a sense of peace and serenity!

12. Kojima Town (Okayama)

If you are keen on fashion, try visiting Kojima Town in Okayama, which has made a name for itself as the go-to place if you wish to buy jeans that are imbued with a unique sense of Japanese-style aesthetics. In fact, your journey will begin right when you arrive at JR Kojima Station, as you will be welcomed by many pictures of denim jeans imprinted on coin lockers and vending machines.

Hopping on a “Kojima Jeans Bus” and alighting at Kojima Jeans Street will allow you to spend a leisurely afternoon strolling down the streets and marveling at the sights, such as a diverse range of jeans flapping in the wind on the electrical lines above you. There are also galleries that display avant-garde products related to denim jeans, creating an image of the history of denim jeans-making in Kojima.

13. Akiyoshi Cave (Yamaguchi)

Stretching for 10 kilometers about 100 meters under Akiyoshi Plateau in Yamaguchi Prefecture, Akiyoshi Cave enables visitors to take a respite from the stresses of modern life. It is known as one of the largest underground limestone caves in Japan, and will steal your breath away with its impressive stalactites and stalagmites.

And that’s not all – Akiyoshi Cave displays some exclusive formations that are difficult to find elsewhere. A highlight is a rock formation called “Hyakumaizara” (hundred saucers), which will surely stop you in your tracks as you gape in awe at how these “saucers” are stacked so spectacularly on top of each other. This cave is a perfect way to be reminded of the fact that great things take time, as after all, these natural masterpieces were painstakingly sculptured by Mother Nature for a few hundred thousand years!

14. Onomichi City (Hiroshima)

Cat lovers, rejoice! Onomichi City in Hiroshima boasts a huge cat population. In fact, the cat population is such an integral part of the city that the tourism authorities once launched a novel project that enabled visitors to use Google Street View and explore its streets through the lens of a cat. It goes without saying that you will have a whale of a time strolling down the streets and taking in the adorable kittens and cats.

As if in homage to its cat inhabitants, Onomichi City also has a “maneki-neko” (beckoning cat) museum that showcases about 3,000 maneki-neko objects, some of which are valuable imported items and period artifacts. The maneki-neko is an indispensable figurine in Japanese culture, as its raised paws are said to symbolize good luck and prosperity for businesses. Hence, a visit to this museum is not to be missed, as you can gather authentic insights into the prized maneki-neko.

15. Tsujunkyo Bridge (Kumamoto)

Kumamoto is home to not just Kumamoto Castle - one of Japan’s top 3 castles - but also Tsujunkyo Bridge, situated in Yamato City. Tsujunkyo Bridge is comprised of towering stone aqueducts and is truly a sight to behold as water is discharged at high velocity from the central section. Many people head over to Tsujunkyo Bridge from May to November to behold this magnificent “waterfall” in action.

Originally constructed in 1854 to provide water to stimulate the growth of crops, Tsujunkyo Bridge is still able to transport 15,000 cubic meters of water daily. Although these gallons of water are not needed for irrigation nowadays, they are still useful in flushing silt out from the aqueducts so that Tsujunkyo Bridge can be maintained in tip-top condition.

16. Gunkanjima (Nagasaki)

If you wish to explore an abandoned island up close and personal, look no further than Gunkanjima, otherwise known as “Battleship Island.” Located a mere boat ride from Nagasaki Port, Gunkanjima used to house a prosperous mining town. It attracted aspiring miners far and wide, who built so many reinforced-concrete apartments and industrial buildings that Gunkanjima came to resemble the warship “Tosa.”

Unfortunately, all this hive of activity came to a stop when the mine was abandoned in 1974, thus causing the buildings to deteriorate under the natural elements. These buildings eventually became dilapidated, which ironically attracted interest for the eerie and otherworldly vibes they evoked. Films like “Skyfall” have already leveraged Gunkanjima for shooting, so there’s no reason why you shouldn’t visit Gunkanjima to experience the air of mystique for yourself!

Find Your Own Captivating and Unknown Corner of Japan

From onsens to islands to quaint towns and flower parks, Japan has something for everyone, ranging from the intrepid adventurer to the nature lover and the art aficionados. This is exactly the sort of idyll that entrances visitors worldwide, and hopefully you found at least one attraction in this list that makes you want to visit. Do incorporate these lesser-known but equally mesmerizing attractions into your itinerary so that you can develop a nuanced perspective of Japan that most travelers are not privy to!

Title image: BoonritP / Shutterstock.com

If you want to give feedback on any of our articles, you have an idea that you'd really like to see come to life, or you just have a question on Japan, hit us up on our  Facebook ,  Twitter , or  Instagram !

The information in this article is accurate at the time of publication.

tsunagu Japan Newsletter

Subscribe to our free newsletter and we'll show you the best Japan has to offer!

About the author

Related Articles

Related interests.

• Otaru canal
• Umeda sky building
• Rainbow bridge
• Tokyo skytree
• Tokyo tower
• Imperial Palace
• World heritage sites

Restaurant Search

Tsunagu japan sns.

Subscribe to the tsunagu Japan Newsletter

Sign up to our free newsletter to discover the best Japan has to offer.

Connect with Japan through tsunagu Japan

Let us introduce you to the best of Japan through our free newsletter: sightseeing spots, delicious food, deep culture, best places to stay, and more!

20 Unique Things To Do In Japan

A trip to Japan is full of unique experiences. From the food to the temples to the megacity of Tokyo and unusual animal encounters, the most difficult thing is deciding what to do in Japan!

We have traveled to the country a number of times and find different things to do in Japan every time we visit. Yet there are still so many Japan attractions we haven’t seen. So I asked some expert travellers to share their most unique places to go in Japan.

Whether you are looking for unique Japan experiences, cool things to do in Tokyo, or things you can only do in Japan, you are sure to find something to add to your itinerary from our list of unique things to do in Japan.

• 1 Unique Things to Do In Japan
• 2 Unique Food Experiences In Japan
• 3 Unusual Animal Encounters in Japan
• 4 Unique Places To Go In Japan
• 5 Unique Japanese Temples To Visit
• 6 Read More On Japan

Japan Vacation Essentials >> Save money and pre-purchase a 4G Portable WIFI and/or SIM card for pick up on arrival in Japan. Click here for details. Alternatively, take a look at the Skyroam portable wifi if you just need data. Click here for more information. >> Book private airport transfers for when you arrive or depart Japan here. >> Purchase your Japan Rail Pass before you go and save! Click here to check the latest prices. >> Save money on attractions, restaurants and tours with Klook. Click here to find the latest deals.

Unique Things to Do In Japan

Watch the sumo wrestling.

Recommended by Matilda from The Travel Sisters

Watching sumo wrestling is one of the most unique experiences in Japan.

Sumo is considered Japan’s national sport and has a very long history dating to ancient times. Sumo matches include many traditions and rituals (in fact the actual wrestling part of a match is very short) including singing, salt-tossing and foot stomping.

One of the most exciting ways to see Sumo is to attend a professional Sumo wrestling tournament where the crowd is very passionate about the matches.

There are six grand tournaments (each lasting fifteen days) held each year in Japan in four different cities, including three tournaments in Tokyo and one in Osaka.

Each Sumo tournament day is long, starting with the lower ranked wrestlers in the morning. Most spectators show up in the afternoon in time to watch the top ranked wrestlers compete.

Tickets for sumo tournaments go on sale over a month in advance and you can buy them online from abroad. It is best to purchase tickets as soon as they are available because the best seats get booked early.

Click here to check availability and prices for Sumo Tournaments

Expert Tip: If you are not in Japan during a grand sumo tournament but still want to watch sumo wrestling, some sumo stables (houses where the sumo wrestlers live and train together) allow visitors to come and view their early morning practice sessions.

The Sumo Stables are also a great option if you are looking for cheap things to do in Tokyo as you can visit some stables independently.

If you want to guarantee a spot, book tickets as part of a tour. Click here for details.

Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel.

World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more.

Bathe at Yunessun Onsen

Recommended by Ben from Horizon Unknown

Full of interesting and quirky culture, there are plenty of unique things to do in Japan. Onsens are a long time tradition in Japan’s history and culture, but Yunessun Onsen in Hakone puts a modern spin on these hot baths.

While there is a regular onsen at Yunessun, there are other pools which you won’t find anywhere else.

It is these pools that make this one of the most unique places in Japan! Bathe in red wine, sake, coffee and syrup, it really is a one of kind Japanese onsen experience.

There is no specific order and you can spend as long or as little time in these heated pools as you would like to.

There is one important thing to note. Tattoos are heavily restricted. You will be outright refused to enter the traditional, non-clothing section of Yunessun, but for the unique pools, there is another option.

Waterproof bandages are placed over any inked skin before you’re allowed to enter.

Yunessun Onsen is a very unique place to visit and swim in Japan. The warm water is soothing but the themes of each pool is what makes it a memorable travel experience in Japan and one of the most fun day trips from Tokyo.

Click here to check the price to visit Hakone Yunessun Hot Springs

Dine with Robots

Recommended by Alex Waltner from Swedish Nomad

Visiting the Robot Restaurant in Tokyo is one of the most fun things to do in Japan and will give you a memorable experience for a lifetime. It is located in Shinjuku, and while it certainly is a tourist trap, it is the most enjoyable tourist trap ever.

Imagine dancing robots, role playing actors, neon lights, glowsticks, robot fights and dancers everywhere while electro J-Pop is being blasted from the surround system.

It’s a surreal experience, and for the first 10 minutes you will have no clue on what to look at. But you will definitely have a smile on your face and it will be fascinating. It is certainly of the more unique things to do in Tokyo.

The Robot Restaurant Show is not something you can explain properly with words, you need to experience it yourself. Come here with an open mind and just be blown away of the crazy things you will see during the show. It has to be one of the most fun places in Japan!

We recommend you book your tickets in advance as it is a popular show.

Avoid the queues. Click here to purchase priority lane Robot Restaurant tickets.

Stay in A Ryokan

Recommended by Sarah Carter from ASocialNomad

Japan is known for its tradition and culture and there’s no better way to experience it than to immerse yourself in the culture of a ryokan stay, certainly one of the most unique things about Japan.

A Ryokan is a traditional Japanese Inn, developed to support Japanese travellers during the Edo period (1603-1838). At the end of a long day of travel, visitors would enjoy the solace of their private room and a shared bathing experience in a traditional onsen bath.

Staying in a ryokan today in Japan enables you to wear a traditional yukata, experience Japanese Haute cuisines while dining traditionally in your room, enjoying the onsen bathing experience and sleeping on a traditional futon.

21st-century facilities such as private bathrooms, TVs and wifi are also available at some ryokans too.

You can choose to have a full cultural immersion in your ryokan stay, but Japanese hosts will explain ryokan etiquette even if you don’t speak Japanese, and are the most genial of hosts.

A stay in a ryokan is one of the best things to do in Japan and is a most unique and Japanese experience to complement your visit to the country.

Click here to search unique ryokan stays in Kyoto

Night Walk in Gion, Kyoto

Recommended by Sylvia Van Overvelt from Wapiti Travel

Gion is one of Kyoto’s most popular districts for a reason. As you walk through the authentic streets it feels like you have been flashed back into time.

With some imagination we could have been back in ancient Japan and it is one of the best places to see in Japan.

The well-preserved and beautiful wooden facades often hide up-scale teahouses and expensive restaurants. These establishments attract a high-heeled clientele, exactly the clientele that can afford the services of a Geisha.

The existence of these posh establishments explains why the Gion district today is also one of the last remaining real geisha districts. Those Geisha’s are another reason why tourists flock to this place in the evening.

Geishas have a remarkable appearance. Their richly decorated kimonos and perfect white faces with fierce red lips ensure a stunning appearance.

To see a Geisha you could book one of the shows that are especially organized for tourists, at least if your budget allows it. Alternatively, and this something many tourists do, you could just take a walk around the Gion district at night.

The latter is at least as much fun as the first. We loved wandering through the charming old streets of Gion, hoping to spot a Geisha with every corner we took.

As you explore the district you come along many amazing places including some magnificent temples. Still the icing on the cake are the Geishas.

So when you are in Kyoto, take a night walk in Gion. It’s one of the best things to do in Kyoto at night .

>> Find the perfect Kyoto guided tour for you here.

Explore Kyoto in A Kimono

Recommended by Paul Fournier from JourneyCompass

A kimono is a traditional style of Japanese clothing, similar to how ryokans are a traditional style of Japanese accommodation. They both uphold past traditions.

It’s a great thing to do because while you’re in Kyoto, the heart of traditional Japan, you get to immerse yourself even further into its traditional culture.

Some kimono rental shops go a bit overboard on the kimono styles though. When choosing a shop I recommend having a good look at their designs first.

I can recommend Kyoto Rental 41 as their designs are elegant and not overly flashy, though their English is sparse.

I’m not much into selfies and the like, but my girl-friend in Kyoto was, and kimonos give a great opportunity for that, obviously. But don’t fret, even for guys there are good looking kimono designs. They’re more subdued, and less flower power.

While strolling around in your kimono you can then visit attractions in Kyoto such as Kiyomizudera, Fushimi Inari Shrine , Arashiyama, etc.

The cost of renting a kimono is very dependent on the outfit + accessories, if you include hair styling, and of course length of rental. We paid about 1000 yen for the both of us.

Click here to check the price for one day kimono rental in Kyoto

Attend a Bon-Odori Festival

Recommended by Sander from Arscurrendi

Bon (also known as Obon) is a Japanese Buddhist custom to honour the spirit of one’s ancestors. With this family-based custom often comes a dance, known throughout Japan as Bon-Odori.

Bon is usually celebrated on the 15th day of the seventh lunar month, which turns out to be 15th August in 2019.

Let me to tell you what it’s like to attend this festival. Since Bon-Odori is always in summer — the seventh lunar month is usually July or August — people who attend go dressed in traditional Japanese summer clothing: a yukata or a light kimono.

The festival revolves around one central stage made of wood and metal, where musicians and singers take the lead on the celebration.

Around the stage, various concentric circles are formed by people dancing along to the folk songs, which are different in every region in Japan.

The carnival around the stage is filled with food stalls, rides, summer games and other food or fun-related activities.

Whereas we were invited to a company-organised Bon-Odori, they’re usually an initiative of local governments or municipalities.

If you ever get the chance to attend one of these festivals, I would highly recommend you to do so as it is one of the more different things to do in Japan.

Transfer money internationally with ease with Wise .

Wise is an online money transfer service which lets you quickly and easily transfer money much more cheaply than a bank. We use and love Wise!

Click here to find out more

Unique Food Experiences In Japan

Make your own cup of noodles in osaka.

Recommended by Thais from World Trip Diaries

Did you know you can make your own personalized cup noodle in Japan? The Cup Noodle Museum gives you the opportunity! There are two locations: Yokohama and  Osaka . 

There, you’ll see the museum, with the evolution of the cup noodle through time, and the whole process of making it.  You can then go ahead and make your own cup noodle.  If you are looking for fun things to do in Osaka with kids, this is a great option.

First, you grab yourself a cup and personalize it. You can draw, write, do whatever you want (on the outside of the container, of course).

Then you put your dry noodle inside. There’s no touching, though, it’s all mechanic and fun and choose your flavors, toppings, and you seal it up.

With your cup ready to be consumed, you CAN make yourself a nice bag that makes your cup noodle looks like it’s floating and take it home.

But if you’re hungry, you can eat right there, at the tables provided! Wash it out and it becomes a unique souvenir from Japan.

The museum is free to enter but to make your cup noodle, you’ll pay around $3 per cup.  Both locations are easily accessible by public transport.

It’s fun and easy to understand, even if you don’t speak Japanese. And even if you don’t like cup noodles, it’s one unique and very Japanese experience! 

Travel across Japan is simple with the Japan Rail Pass? Click here to compare the JR Pass ticket options.

Explore Tsukiji Outer Market in Tokyo

Recommended By Markus Kampl from The Roaming Fork

If you are looking for unique Tokyo experiences, one of the must-do activities when visiting Japan is to explore the Tsukiji Outer Market in Tokyo.

A haven for fresh seafood, there are stalls, restaurants, and shops dedicated to providing visitors with a large variety of delicious eating options , as well as cooking utensils and a host of quality knives.

And although the main fish market, which included the famous tuna auctions, moved location in 2018, this part of the market remains open and continues to thrive.

The best way to explore the market is to wander the well laid-out laneways, moving from stall to stall, trying as many of the smaller dishes and snacks that your stomach, and wallet, allows.

A few must-try seafood recommendations include the exquisite otoro bowl (fresh high-end salmon belly that literally melts in the mouth), Japanese spider crab legs that have been grilled to perfection over charcoal, dried octopus that goes particularly well with local beer, huge freshly shucked oysters, and my favourite, the delicacy that is the murasaki sea urchin.

If your legs need a break from the roaming, step inside one of the small, air conditioned sushi restaurants, where you can enjoy mouth-watering plates of the freshest seafood prepared by chefs right in front of you.

Throughout the market there are a few non-seafood snacks to look out for. Especially an egg dish called tomago, a sweet and fluffy omelette that is a unique specialty of the market.

And for the those with a sweet tooth, there are a few luscious treats on-hand including warabimochi, the decadent ichigo daifuku, and a range of super fresh and not-so-cheap seasonal fruits.

The Tsukiji Outer Market is one of Japan’s great culinary experiences.

The Tsukiji Outer Market is serviced by Tsukiji Train Station, on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line. Note the market is closed on Sundays and some Wednesdays.

>> Click here to find out more about a Tokyo cooking class

Take a Cooking Class in Osaka

Recommended by Amber Hoffman from With Husband In Tow

Osaka, Japan is considered the culinary heart of Japan. While Tokyo does have its own incredible culinary scene, Osaka and its residents are food crazy.

The city is filled with so many great places to eat. In the city’s Dontonbori district, you can’t walk 10 feet without coming across another restaurant or street vendor cooking up local Osaka food specialities .

From okonomiyaki, the Japanese style pancake made famous in Osaka to takoyaki, fried octopus balls, you won’t go hungry.

In between delicious bites, learning how to make some of these traditional dishes from Osaka is one of the more unique things to do in Osaka. Cooking classes are a fun and hands-on way to learn about a country’s cuisine.

Whether set in a fancy cooking studio or in the private home of a local resident, taking a cooking class is the perfect activity for singles, couples, and families who love to cook.

Beyond simply learning how to cook dishes from a foreign cuisine, cooking classes, especially in Japan, highlight traditions and customs surrounding the cuisine.

In Osaka, you can take a cooking classes that begins with a Japanese matcha tea ceremony and includes learning about how to properly taste sake.

Most Osaka cooking classes include how to cook the local Osakan dishes as well as how to cook Japanese food in general.

Taking a cooking class, especially in a food-focused city like Osaka provides more than another meal. It provides insight into the customs and traditions of a culture.

Traveling to Japan soon? Click here to order 4G WIFI and SIM for your trip

Eat a Black Egg in Hakone

Recommended by Melissa from Parenthood and Passports

The Owakudani volcano valley just outside of the charming town of Hakone Japan is a unique place to visit.

The ropeway takes you over the volcano valley, which locals have coined ‘The Valley of Hell’. From the ropeway you can see plumes of steam and smell the strong sulfuric gases coming up from the large crater in the ground.

The ropeway stops at a Visitor Center where you can go inside and purchase a souvenir or step outside to look over the volcano valley.

But what makes this one of the more unusual things to do in Hakone is you can eat a black egg.

The egg starts out white, but it is boiled in natural spring water from the area which contains sulfur and iron. The boiling process turns the egg’s shell black, although don’t worry, the actual egg itself tastes like a normal hard boiled egg.

The Japanese believe that eating one of these black eggs adds 7 years to your life. To make your egg-eating experience even more memorable, you can hike a short distance from the Visitor Center to the boiling natural spring and watch the process as the eggs are prepared.

You can get there by purchasing a ticket on the Hakone ropeway or by purchasing the Hakone Freepass .

Try Kobe Beef

Recommended by Chris W. from CTB Global

Kobe is heaven for meat lovers! Kobe beef is such an amazing kind of beef it’s difficult to describe with words. It’s meat from the Tajima strain of Japanese Black cattle and raised in Hyogo Prefecture.

Kobe beef is only Kobe beef if the cattle is raised as per the rules of the Kobe Beef Marketing and Distribution Promotion Association.

Kobe beef can be prepared in several ways, but it’s recommended to have sashimi Kobe beef or teppanyaki Kobe beef. This will make sure you taste the tenderness and the fatty marbled texture. It simply melts in your mouth.

There are many places serving Kobe beef in Kobe of course but Ishida Kobe Beef Steak is highly recommended. They serve the highest-grade Kobe beef. The chefs are fun to watch while they prepare the beef in front of you.

It doesn’t come cheap with the best quality in a restaurant well over 100 USD a person. It’s worth it though – once you have had Kobe beef once, you’ll sure want to have it again.

One insider tip: choose to eat simple ramen for 3 days and the 4th day choose Kobe beef. You can do this repeatedly without getting into budget troubles.

You can get Kobe beef throughout Japan but it’s highly recommended to add Kobe to your Japan itinerary and try it at the source.

Kobe can be reached in just 45 minutes from Osaka by high speed train with your JR Rail Pass . It’s a great day trip but if you have time you can also add a night in Kobe.

Kobe has an old European style neighborhood, a botanical garden, temples, and several museums worth exploring. The next day you could visit Himeiji castle just 30 minutes away before heading further or back to Osaka.

Click to find the best hotel options in Kobe

Unusual Animal Encounters in Japan

See the snow monkeys.

Recommended by Katy Clarke from Untold Morsels

One of the enduring images of nature in Japan is of the famous ‘snow monkeys’ bathing in their warm onsen.

Japanese macaque monkeys are known as snow monkeys thanks to pictures of them lounging in steaming warm natural baths surrounded by snow.

The Jigokudani Monkey Park is a popular place to see the monkeys in their natural habitat. It’s a half day excursion that includes a hike through the Yokoyu River valley forest near Shiga Kogen, a large ski area , to reach the monkeys’ playground.

Up to 200 monkeys live in the forest here and they come to the onsen to warm up and clean themselves. They look so relaxed hanging out by the steaming pools, popping in and out for food and to play with each other.

It is one of the best things to do in Japan in winter. When we visited in early autumn, whilst there was no snow, there were lots of new babies riding on the backs of their mothers.

From Nagano you take the local train to Yudanaka Station (45 minutes). Then a taxi or local bus takes you to the Jigokudani Monkey Park car park – a 5km or 15 minute drive.

The walk to the monkey is around half an hour from the ticket office. Some parts of the trail are steep and slippery so make sure to take appropriate footwear and in winter, warm clothing.

It can be as cold as -10C in that region which is no doubt why the monkeys love their warm bath.

Read Next: Skiing at Myoko Kogen

Explore Bunny Island

Recommended by Helen Foster from Destination>Differentville

About 15 minutes ferry ride from the port of Tadanoumi on the south coast of Japan’s Honshu Island, there’s a magical world and one of the most unusual places in Japan.

It has blue skies, white sandy beaches and silent green forests – but no-one is here for that.

They’re here because this island is Okunoshima – or Rabbit Island – and it’s home to over 1,000 bunnies. Bunnies who love people! It is one of the most unique things to see in Japan.

The second you get off the ferry, you’re swarmed by them – little pink noses twitching in case you have a bag of rabbit food you might want to give them treats from.

While you can’t technically pick them up, sit down and they’ll happily scamper round your feet or jump on your lap if you’ll let them.

Why they’re here no-one knows. In the war, Okunoshima was used to test chemical weapons but it’s not thought that they were related to that.

But with no natural predators, they’ve made the island their own – and it’s definitely one of the most unique things to do in Japan.

There’s a couple of ways of reaching Bunny Island, the most frequent is the hourly ferry from Tadanoumi which you reach by a local train from Mihara shinkansen station.

This is within fairly easy reach of Hiroshima and Okayama and can also be visited as a long day trip from Osaka or Kyoto.

The other benefit of going from Tadanoumi is that the ferry stop sells bunny food which you can’t buy on the island. Please don’t take them veggies – there’s no vet care so if they do get sick for any reason there’s no way to get them treatment.

Here’s more details on getting to Bunny Island , staying on Bunny island and the answer to what happens if you lie down covered in bunny food on Bunny Island.

If you are looking for unusual things to do in Japan, a visit to Bunny Island Japan should be on your list.

Read Next: Cheap things to do in Tokyo with kids

Feed the Deer at Nara

Recommended by Talek Nantes from Travels With Talek

For everybody that grew up with Bambi, the cute, friendly deer, the tame deer of Nara Park in central Japan can be a rude awakening.

These guys are not timid or skittish creatures. They are bold and will insist on you feeding them if they see you have food.

Nara is an ideal day trip from Kyoto or Osaka. It has a little bit of everything for everyone. Since it was a one-time capital of Japan, it has all the cultural history corresponding to such a lofty pedigree.

Nara Park itself, where the deer are, is one of the oldest in Japan having been laid out in the 1300s.

It has beautiful temples and one of the world’s largest Buddhas. These are surrounded by acres of landscaped gardens and ponds filled with large multi-colored fish.

Throughout this environment you see hundreds of deer just ambling about, sniffing for food and serving as great subjects for beautiful photographs.

One of the most interesting and unusual things I found in Nara was the ice creams in bizarre flavors; peanut, sake, seaweed and much more. I tried the sake ice cream and was surprised to see it really did taste like sake!

Just like most Japan attractions, Nara Deer Park is easy to get to. It is just a short 10-minute walk from the Nara Train Station.

The station has a tourist information center where you can get a free map and orient yourself. They also have free wi-fi. The activities in Nara are certainly worth a full day.

Discover other great activities in Nara to do here

Explore Fox Village

Recommended by Henry Wu from This Life of Travel

If you’re in Tokyo and looking for an awesome day trip, a visit to the Miyagi Fox Village is totally worth it! It’s located in Shiroishi (Miyagi Prefecture) and is an easy train ride away.

There are literally hundreds of super cute, fluffy semi-wild foxes running free in this forest sanctuary.

It’s a bit more off the beaten track compared to other places like Bunny Island, the deers in Nara, and the animal cafes in Tokyo and one of the more unusual places to visit in Japan.

To get there you’ll take a Shinkansen from Tokyo to Shiroishizao. Once there, you can grab a taxi for around 4000-5000 yen.

The entrance fee is 1,000 yen. They’ll quickly educate you about how to properly interact with the foxes before you go in.

If you go when it’s cold (we went in March) the foxes will be super fluffy. You can buy fox food for 200 yen, which you use to feed them on the special platforms.

They are so cute when they’re looking straight up at you – they even look like they’re smiling!

The foxes looked very well taken care of, happy, and content. They have a ton of room to run around and play – with lots of places of burrow as well.

Try to find some other tourists going back to the train station so you can split the taxi fare and make quick friends!

Unique Places To Go In Japan

Hiking in japan.

Recommended by Lisa from Rebellious Tourist

The Japanese Alps were the highlight of our 10-day Japan itinerary , and hiking in Kamikochi is an essential activity.

The mountain views here are stunning, the hiking trails are easily accessible, and the snow monkeys along the way are endlessly entertaining.

From Kamikochi bus terminal it’s a short walk to the iconic Kappa-bashi (Kappa bridge), but a top tip is to get off the bus before that.

Ask the driver to drop you at Taisho Pond, and walk along the Azusa River for just over an hour to reach Kappa-bashi. From there it’s another hour or so to the smaller Myojin Pond.

These are easy trails with lots of photo opportunities, but for more serious hikers, there are many more challenging routes up into the mountains. A visit to the Japanese Alps is one of the more adventurous things to do in Japan.

At the end of the day, soak your aching muscles in an onsen (hot spring). This region is famous for them. We stayed in Hirayu, the biggest of the five onsen towns, and it was a uniquely Japanese experience.

Or extend your time in Kamikochi and spend the night in the National Park – it’s the best way to soak up the scenery without crowds of day trippers.

There are several spa hotels, a few more high-end options, and a couple of campsites (the official Kamikochi website has detailed info).

Kamikochi closes every year from November 16 to mid- or late April. We loved seeing cherry blossoms and snowy peaks when it reopened in April, but the most popular month is October, when the autumn foliage is said to be spectacular.

There are frequent buses from nearby Hirayu (check Nohi Bus for schedules and prices), and less frequently from Matsumoto, Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto.

Visit the Scarecrow Village of Nagoro

Recommended by Vicki Franz from Vicki Viaja

One of the most extraordinary things we experienced in Japan was a visit to Nagoro . Nagoro is a deserted little village in the Iya Valley, located in the Tokushima Prefecture on Shikoku.

Once, many workers lived here but eventually left the village to find work in the city. One woman that stayed in the village though decided to replace all villagers that had left with scarecrows.

So it happens that you can find scarecrows everywhere in the village. You can even enter some of the buildings, which are also inhabited by these scarecrows. Even at the bus stop, you will find some dolls and it seems like they are waiting for the bus.

For many, visiting Nagoro is one of the most weird things to do in Japan. For us, it was more of a fun experience to discover the dolls that you can find everywhere around the village.

However, I have to admit that I would probably not particularly be happy coming here after dark.

The village is located in the middle of the forest and is difficult to reach. Especially since the bus usually only drives here on weekends.

We decided to hitchhike there and found – after more than an hour of waiting – a super sweet Japanese couple, who were actually on the way to an onsen and decided to accompany us to Nagoro instead.

Do you want to explore Japan off the beaten path independently? Click here for a rental car quote today

Discover the Japan Art Islands

Hidden away in the Seto Inland Sea are the Japan Art Islands . They are filled with beautiful art installations, museums, and architectural masterpieces. It is simply one of the best things to see in Japan if you love art and nature.

They have a triennial (every 3 years) where they refresh all the art and 2019 was one of those years! Some of the art you’ll see from previous years include Monet, Yayoi Kusama, James Turrell, Tadao Ando, and more.

It all started on the main island of Naoshima by the Benesse Foundation – who has one of the best museums on the island. They also have the Benesse House Hotel, which is housed as part of the museum.

If you stay here, you’ll be able to roam the museum at all hours.. even at 3 am.. all by yourself! The Oval Rooms are especially incredible because you’ll get access to the beautiful Oval Area.

If you like James Turrell – he has two pieces on the art islands. One involves light deprivation and the other is a standard skylight pieces.

Tadao Ando – one of the most famous Japanese architects, has many lovely structures throughout the islands.

There is also an amazing bathhouse called I Love Bath – its simply adorable and full of wonky art inside.

Teshima Museum is probably the highlight of the whole thing for me personally. It’s hard to explain but you’ll feel like you’re in another world when inside this water droplet shaped structure.

Visit Miyajima Island

Recommended by Mikkel from Sometimes Home

I grew up going to Epcot at Walt Disney World long before I ever envisioned myself traveling to Japan. The red gate in the water at Epcot in front of the Japan pavilion always amazed me.

Years later, when a visit to Japan turned into a beautiful exploration of the country, I wanted to visit the inspiration for this gate.

Thus, I discovered Miyajima Island. This glorious, unique place is on the south side of Japan in Hiroshima Bay. It’s easily accessible with a 30 minute ferry ride from Hiroshima if you’re touring the area.

You see the red gate, or torii, in the water, just like in Epcot as the ferry approaches Miyajima Island. But that’s just the start of exploring this great gem in Japan.

There is a range of things to do on Miyajima Island, including the impressive Itsukushima-jinja shrine, and delicious street food too. Our top tip is try a roasted oyster from any street vendor you pass cooking them up over coals on an open fire.

Be sure to stay all day to see the rise and fall of the tide and how it affects the viewpoints on Miyajima Island. But check the return ferry schedule too so you can get back to the mainland!

Go Kayaking on Ishigaki Island

Recommended by Clemens Sehi from Travellers Archive

Ishigaki Island is an island that belongs to Yaeyama Islands in Okinawa, Japan.

It is actually located about 400 kilometers off the main island of Okinawa and, what’s even more interesting, just 270 kilometers away from Taiwan.

If you are wondering where to go in Japan off the beaten path, this is a great option.

Surrounded by hundreds of coral reefs, this island has beautiful beaches and scenic marine spots, but also beautiful rivers that are a delight to explore.

One of the best things to do on the island of Ishigaki is to go kayaking in the lush green nature on Miyara river.

Most kayaking tours are half day tours and include lunch at the river with wonderful views of the island.

Many tours start in Ishigaki town where you will be picked up at your hotel in the morning and brought to the starting point of your kayaking tour.

It’s either one or two persons in one kayak and the groups are normally pretty small so that you can get the most fun out of it.

The tours are perfect for kayaking beginners as well. Don’t forget sunscreen as it can get pretty hot in the Okinawa archipelago.

Click here to check the price for a Ishigaki Kayaking tour

Unique Japanese Temples To Visit

Explore saiho-ji temple.

Recommended by James Ian from Travel Collecting

Visiting Saiho-ji Temple (or Koko-dera/ Moss Temple as it is commonly called) in Kyoto is a unique Japanese experience for several reasons. 

A visit to the temple starts with a mandatory ritual.  This could be chanting a sutra or copying the ‘heart sutra’. 

Even if you don’t understand the Japanese kanji characters, it is still a fun introduction to Japanese calligraphy. 

After you are suitably prepared by the ritual, you are able to enter the moss garden.  More than 200 varieties of moss grow amongst trees and around a heart-shaped pond. 

It is not the western concept of a heart shape, however.  The golden pond is shaped like the kanji (Japanese written character) for the word ‘heart’. 

There are several tiny islands that help make the shape, and some tea houses scattered throughout the garden.  This is a magical place and one of the more unique things to do in Kyoto. 

The best time of year to visit is during Spring in the rainy season when the moss is at its most lush, but any time of year is OK.  It is a distinctly Japanese experienced that is well worth the effort to visit.

Note that the Moss Temple is somewhat complicated to visit.  The garden is only open by reservation.  There are set times and you need to book at least a month in advance. 

To book, you must send in a special return-addressed postcard, but this only works for addresses in Japan. If you don’t live in Japan, the easiest way to do this is to ask your hotel to arrange it for you. 

When you arrive at the appointed time, you show your postcard as proof of reservation and pay the 3,000 yen admission fee. 

Wander through Fushimi Inari

Recommended by Leona Wandermust from Wandermust Family

If there is one unique place to visit in Kyoto it is the iconic red Tori gates of the Fushimi Inari Shrine. It is one of the most impressive shrines in Kyoto and one of the best places to visit in Japan.

Fushimi Inari is the head shrine of the Inari. It sits at the base of Mount Inari and thousands of torii gates can be followed up to the summit of the mountain. The higher you get, the more you will get the shrine to yourself as the tourists fall away!

One of my favourite things about visiting the shrine was seeing the locals make their ascent to the top of the shrine dressed in their best kimonos. A truly beautiful sight and one of the top things to do in Kyoto.

The shrine is very easy to get to from Kyoto as there are train and metro stations nearby. The shrine is located just outside JR Inari Station.

Top Tip: If you are visiting in summer be sure to go early and pack plenty of water as the climb is long and the Kyoto summer gets very hot!

So that wraps up our summary of unique and cool things to do in Japan. Don’t forget to book your accommodation in advance for popular destinations.

Where is the most unusual place you have visited in Japan? Let us know in the comments below!

Find all our Japan articles here or for more destinations in Asia click here .

Read More On Japan

• 10 Cheap Things To Do In Tokyo With Kids
• 5 Fun Things To Do In Kyoto With Kids
• Best Family Ski Resorts In Japan
• 5 Foods To Try In Japan

Pin and Share To Pinterest

Rachel Rodda

Related Posts

Best Family Skiing in Japan (2024)

Ski trip with kids to Myoko Kogen, Japan

Tokyo with kids: 10 cheap things to do

2 thoughts on “20 unique things to do in japan”.

Rachel, this is a fantastic post. So much to do in Japan. It was my dream to go to Japan since I have moved to China. You can even hike there…I didn’t know that. Views are stunning!

We can’t wait to return to do some hiking and even cycling – such a great country to visit!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

We are Rachel and Matt and we're here to help you adventure more as a family. Read more about us.

Looking For Something?

Popular Posts

40+ Best Road Trip Gifts For Travel Lovers [2024]

The Best Anti Theft Backpacks For Travel [2024]

Family Gap Year: Our Around the World Itinerary

The Perfect Itinerary for a 2 week Northern Territory Road Trip

We use cookies on this site to enhance your user experience. If you continue to browse you accept the use of cookies on our site. See our Cookie Policy for more information.

• Media & PR
• Meetings & Events
• School Groups
• Travel Trade
• Select Language 简体中文 繁體中文（香港） 繁體中文（臺灣） India (English) Bahasa Indonesia 한국어 ภาษาไทย Tiếng Việt Singapore (English) Philippines (English) Malaysia (English) Australia/New Zealand (English) Français Deutsch Italiano Español United Kingdom (English) Nordic countries（English） Canada (English) Canada (Français) United States (English) Mexico (español) Português العربية Japan(日本語) Global (English)
• India (English)
• Bahasa Indonesia
• Singapore (English)
• Philippines (English)
• Malaysia (English)
• Australia/New Zealand (English)
• United Kingdom (English)
• Nordic countries（English）
• Canada (English)
• Canada (Français)
• United States (English)
• Mexico (español)
• Global (English)
• Fujiyoshida
• Shimonoseki
• Ishigaki Island
• Miyako Island
• Kerama Island
• Tokyo Island
• Koka & Shigaraki
• Hida Takayama
• Ginza, Nihonbashi
• Beppu & Yufuin (Onsen)
• Ginzan Onsen
• Nagasaki Islands

• Kumano Kodo
• Shikoku Karst
• Amami Oshima
• Hachimantai
• Omihachiman
• Aizuwakamatsu

• Diving in Japan
• Skiing in Japan
• Seasonal Flowers in Japan
• Sustainable Outdoors
• Off the Beaten Track in Japan
• Scenic Spots
• World Heritage
• Home Stays & Farm Stays

• Japanese Gardens
• Japanese Crafts
• Temple Stays
• Heritage Stays
• Festivals and Events
• Theater in Japan
• Japanese Tea Ceremony
• Cultural Experiences in Japan
• Culture in Japan

• Local Cuisine Eastern Japan
• Local Cuisine Western Japan
• Local Street Food
• Japan's Local Ekiben
• Japanese Whisky
• Vegetarian and Vegan Guide
• Sushi in Japan Guide
• Japanese Sake Breweries

• Art Museums
• Architecture
• Performing Arts
• Art Festivals
• Japanese Anime and Comics
• Japanese Ceramics
• Local Crafts

• Scenic Night Views
• Natural Wonders
• Theme Parks
• Samurai & Ninja
• Iconic Architecture

• Wellness Travel in Japan
• Japanese Ryokan Guide
• A Guide to Stargazing in Japan
• Relaxation in Japan
• Forest Bathing (Shinrin-yoku)

• Experiences in Japan
• Enjoy my Japan
• National Parks
• Japan's Local Treasures
• Japan Heritage
• Snow Like No Other
• Wonder Around Japan

• Visa Information
• Getting to Japan
• Airport Access
• COVID-19 Practical Information
• Anime Tourism
• Countryside Stays
• Sustainable Travel
• Accommodation
• Sample Itineraries
• Travel Agents
• Deals and Tours

• Traveling by Rail
• How to Travel by Train and Bus
• JR Rail Passes
• Train Passes and Discounted Tickets
• Scenic Railways
• Renting a Car
• Yokohama Cruise Port Access
• Travel Brochures
• Useful Apps
• Accommodation Types
• Online Reservation Sites
• Eco-friendly Accommodation
• Luxury Accommodations
• Traveling With a Disability
• Hands-free Travel
• How to Book a Certified Tour Guide
• Volunteer Guides
• Tourist Information Center

• Japanese Manners
• Sustainable Travel in Japan
• Spring in Japan
• Summer in Japan
• Autumn in Japan
• Winter in Japan
• Seasonal Attractions
• Monthly Events Calendar
• Cherry Blossom Forecast
• Autumn Leaves Forecast

• Japan Visitor Hotline
• Travel Insurance in Japan
• Japan Safe Travel Information
• Accessibility in Japan
• Vegetarian Guide
• Muslim Travelers
• Safety Tips

• All News & Blog
• Travellers Blog
• Guides to Japan
• Stories of Japan
• The Other Side of Japan
• Media Releases
• JAPAN Monthly Web Magazine

My Favorites

${v.desc | trunc(25)}

Planning a Trip to Japan?

Share your travel photos with us by hashtagging your images with #visitjapanjp

21 Unique Must-Do Japan Experiences Every Traveller Needs to Try Once

Glamping at Mt Fuji’s Fujino Kirameki . Photo by Fujita Kanko

A heady mix of the cutting edge and deeply traditional, Japan remains a major drawcard for travellers from all over the globe and is a country that leaves its mark on all who visit.

Whether you're hunting down top eats or basking in the country’s stunning landscapes, it's impossible to take it all in during one visit to Japan. But you'll certainly have a fun time trying. We've built the ultimate cheat sheet of all the top (and most unique) Japan experiences to help you plan your next visit.

The Great Outdoors

Though Japan might be most famous for its dazzlingly modern cities, you'll want to spend at least a few days exploring its stunning natural offerings. With its bubbling hot springs, towering volcanoes and snow-capped mountains, Japan's varied topography is the perfect setting for an adventure in the great outdoors.

1. Unique outdoor accommodation

Only in Japan can you bunk in a Buddhist temple one night and rent your own city-based sleeping pod the next. High-tech Japan lovingly reveres its cultural traditions, making for the best kind of culture shock.

For those seeking a unique outdoors escape, glamping sites have also popped up around Japan in recent years. Our pick is Fujino Kirameki, which sits on a gently sloping site with stunning views of Japan’s most famous mountain. https://www.fu-ji-no.jp/kirameki/en

2. Winter sport adventures

If you’re a winter sports aficionado, you’ve probably heard of Niseko. The rural Hokkaido retreat offers skiing, sleigh rides, snowshoeing and more. But you may not have heard of smelt ice fishing in Mt. Akagi. As you admire the sweeping, snow-kissed mountains, you'll cut a hole in the ice to dangle your fishing rod. And it’ll be worth the effort – your catch goes straight to a nearby restaurant to be turned into delicious golden tempura. https://nisekotourism.com ; https://www.visit-gunma.jp/en/spots/akagi-onuma-wakasagi-ice-fishing/

3. Surprising summertime festivals

After the cherry blossoms fall, many unique and exciting outdoor activities take place during the summer in Japan. Summer is also one of the main seasons for festivals in Japan. Akin to Mexico’s ‘Day Of The Dead’, Obon (also known as The Bon Festival) is one of the largest and sees Japanese people pay tribute to lost ancestors.

In Nagasaki, the Shoro-Nagashi ‘Spirit Boat Procession’ is held where boats are painstakingly decorated by the grieving family members of the people of Nagasaki who died that year. https://www.discover-nagasaki.com/en/sightseeing/51798

Traditional Pasttimes

Japan excels at striking the right balance between tradition and modernity, leading the way in technological advances while also embracing its history, whether it's architecture, art, fashion, food or sports. Here are a few experiences that will give you a taste of Japan's traditional side.

4. Stay in a ryokan

Ryokan - Japanese inns - provide a taste of the authentic with rice paper shoji doors, tatami flooring, futon beds and natural hot spring baths. Catering to all budgets, they can be found throughout Japan but most commonly in the countryside outside of urban centres.

Wakayama prefecture’s Ryokan Musashi is consistently rated as one of the top onsen ryokans in all of Japan. Some rooms even boast a private hot spring tub with ocean views. http://www.yado-musashi.co.jp/en

Ryokan Musashi. Image credit Ryokan Musashi

5. Relax and recharge at a traditional tea ceremony

Running deep within Japan’s rich culture, the tea ceremony tradition has remained a cherished ritual for centuries, serving to bring people together in an environment of tranquillity to enjoy freshly whisked matcha tea.

Shizuoka is home to some of Japan's best tea growing and you can experience them right from the source. Set in beautiful surroundings just below Kakegawa Castle, Ninomaru Teahouse is the best place to experience this meticulous tradition. https://exploreshizuoka.com/

6. Explore ancient temples, shrines and castles

At ancient shrines and in the heart of historic cities, Japan’s rich cultural heritage lives on as something not just to be admired from afar, but actively appreciated. What’s more, some unique accommodation in Japan offers experiences too.

Home to the Soto school of Zen Buddhism, Hakujukan is a ryokan-cum-temple lodge in Fukui prefecture where guests get a taste of traditional Japanese hospitality and can join monks at the monastery for a Zen meditation session. https://www.hakujukan-eiheiji.jp/en

Can’t Miss Culinary Creations

Those who love food know that there’s no culinary destination like Japan, and your experience will probably always start with enjoying the freshest sushi in its native home. From delicate multi-course meals to hearty dishes served at an outdoor food cart, explore the many flavours found in diverse regional cuisines.

7. Devour world-class sushi

Sushi is probably the most recognisable Japanese food and has exploded in popularity around the world. For under 600 yen ($7 AUD), you can walk into any supermarket in Japan and pick up fresh sushi. You can also spend upwards of 60,000 yen for a three Michelin star omakase (chosen by the chef) course.

An unassuming lantern on the street outside is all that marks the entrance to Ginza SUSHI AOKI, an internationally acclaimed sushi bar in Tokyo's ritzy Ginza district. Score a seat at the counter and you’ll soon realize that there’s nothing modest about the food on offer. More info: https://www.sushiaoki.jp/en

Ginza SUSHI AOKI. Image credit Ginza SUSHI AOKI

8. Slurp oodles of noodles

Noodles are a staple of Japanese cuisine. Whether its ramen, udon or soba, noodles have been served for hundreds of years in a variety of different ways. Longing for ramen? Why not head to the Shin Yokohama Ramen Museum and savour a wide selection of this favourite soul-food dish. If Soba is more your thing, the ultimate farm-to-table foray into soba noodles can be found in Chino, Nagano prefecture, where you can join a master noodle maker as he shares deep insight into the fundamentals of making delicious soba. https://www.raumen.co.jp/english/ ; https://chinotabi.jp/en

9. Izakaya hopping and sake bar crawling

No trip to Japan is complete without trying beloved Japanese sake and experiencing local nightlife in an izakaya (Japanese pub). Izakaya are typically crowded, but that’s all part of the fun. The dishes served each afternoon will vary, but you can expect a selection of food ranging from niche regional specialties to all-time Japanese classics.

In Sendai (90 minutes from Tokyo), narrow streets are lined with alluring red lanterns, enticing you into the cosiest of watering holes. Tohoku Local Secret Tours offer English-speaking tours of this city that will take you to places normally only locals know. https://www.tohoku-local-secret-tours.jp/

Must-See Cities

Japan’s cities are crossroads of culture in continuous transformation. Here, age-old traditions coexist harmoniously alongside state-of-the-art technology. Japan may look small on a map, but it’s home to countless world-class cities. Here’s a rundown of the top Japanese cities you need to see.

Is there a city that conjures up visions of fast-paced Japan more than Tokyo? Tokyo's vast, bustling cityscape is home to some of the Japan's most iconic landmarks including Tokyo Skytree, the Imperial Palace and Tokyo Tower.

Japan’s “underground tunnel” is a must-visit for a truly unique experience and for those urban architecture fans. This subterranean attraction (known rather factually as the Metropolitan Area Outer Floodway) is the world’s largest underground flood diversion facility. The tunnel system runs 50 metres deep and 6.5 kilometres long and prevents disasters in low-lying Tokyo which is vulnerable to flooding during the rainy and typhoon seasons. https://gaikaku.jp/

This ancient capital of Japan is home to three World Heritage sites and filled with natural beauty, charming townscapes, and national treasures, all less than an hour by train from Kyoto and Osaka, and easily accessible from Tokyo.

Nara is also home almost 1400 ‘celebrity’ deer that roam free among the park’s famous heritage temples and shrines. The deer are considered sacred and have coexisted with the people of Nara for more than 1000 years. Pick up “shika senbei” (deer crackers) to feed them, which the deer will happily take from human hands. https://www.visitnara.jp/

12. Sapporo

Set amidst beautiful nature, Sapporo is the capital of Hokkaido, northern Japan. Sapporo is well known for its magnificent seasonal beauty. Long winters bring perfect snowfall for winter sports, and summers are comfortable, with lower humidity and cooler temperatures compared to its southern neighbours.

In summer, waterfalls, mountains, and dramatic valleys all form a part of the nearby untouched wilderness, of which many tourists are unaware. Sapporo also has a lesser-known but growing ‘cool’ factor including a bourgeoning art, culture and foodie scene that shows off Hokkaido’s unique regional differences. https://visitsapporo.jp/

Sapporo. Image credit Visit Sapporo

Arty Adventures

Japan's art and design scene offers everything from the ancient to the avant-garde thanks to its rich traditional culture, and swathe of cutting-edge contemporary local artists and architecture.

13. Gallery and museum mania

Museums and galleries in Japan can be dedicated to just about anything you can think of, from the weird and wonderful to the film and animation of Studio Ghibli and gorgeous, traditional art.

After a three-year renovation by architects Jun Aoki and Tezzo Nishizawa - who also designed the flagdhip Louis Vuitton store in Tokyo’s Ginza district - Kyoto City Kyocera Museum of Art reopened in March 2020. Blending Japanese, Western, contemporary and modern architecture, this photogenic museum is a must-visit spot for permanent exhibits and modern art exhibitions. https://kyotocity-kyocera.museum/en/

14. Visit eccentric art islands

The scattering of small islands of the Seto Inland Sea, or Setouchi for short, is littered with incredible modern art and sculptures, and form one of Japan’s most artistic regions. Japan’s art island of Naoshima is on the bucket list of just about every art lover inside and outside Japan.

The Setouchi Modern Art Triennale is returning in 2022. The artistic, architectural, and cultural festival taking place every three years and takes the art world by storm. https://benesse-artsite.jp/en/; https://setouchi-artfest.jp/en/

View of Shodoshima. Kagawa, Japan. Photo by Yu on Unsplash

15. Experience Japan’s love for all things Manga and Anime

Anime and Manga are big parts of modern Japanese culture today. From Pokemon to Studio Ghibli, the distinct look of Japanese comics, animations and games attract fans from all around the world. Even if you’re not a lover of this unique art, manga and anime are a powerful vehicle of influence in subculture and is worth experiencing.

Kyoto International Manga Museum has a collection of some 300,000 comics and manga-related exhibits. Visitors can read any piece of manga they fancy from the towering wooden bookcases that line every wall and hallway https://www.kyotomm.jp/en/

Back To Nature

Japan’s backdrop changes from the delicate pinks of cherry blossom season in spring, lush greens of summer, golden hues of autumn and mountains covered in powder snow in winter. A country made up of mountains, forests, and stretches of coastline, Japan offers you plenty of opportunity to spend time among nature.

16. Hike the Japanese Alps

Kamikochi in the Northern Japanese Alps offers some of Japan’s most spectacular mountain scenery. A fifteen-kilometre-long plateau in the Azusa River Valley and about 1500 metres above sea level, Kamikochi is encompassed by soaring mountains as well as the active volcano ‘Yakedake’.

An outstanding hiking experience, trails lead through the valley and towards the summits of the neighbouring mountains. Hike along the river, a mostly flat terrain requiring only a few hours and is easy for inexperienced trekkers. https://www.kamikochi.org/

17. Beach hop the country’s vast coastlines

Japan is a country made of islands, and that means there are plenty of beaches with golden sands and crystal-blue seas for you to explore. Okinawa is arguably home to Japan's best beaches, like those in Ishigaki and Kerama, with sugar-white sand fringed with palms and turquoise waters. This semi-tropical archipelago forms an arch between Kyūshū and Taiwan and the differences are apparent in everything down to the architecture and food.

Amami-Okinawa, a chain of islands that stretch across Kagoshima to Okinawa prefectures, were even recently added to the UNESCO World Natural Heritage List. https://www.visitokinawa.jp/ ; https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1574

Okinawa. Image by Sho K on Unsplash

18. Be wowed by the changing colours of autumn in Japan

As the summer heat wanes and a winter chill begins to set in, Japan's dense forests begin turning hues of vivid orange, yellow, and red. Gardens and parks attract crowds of visitors eager to see the changing leaves and the temperate weather make for an ideal time to experience traditional festivals and events.

Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri autumn festival takes place every September in Kishiwada City, Osaka. It features danjiri – large intricately-carved wooden festival floats – that speed through the streets pulled by up to 500 eager locals. https://osaka-info.jp/en/discover-kansai/kishiwada-danjiri-festival/

Unique Relaxation

Japan is about disconnecting as much as it is high stimulation exploring. Be sure to schedule in some me-time during your trip to Japan - whether it is heading into the mountains of central Japan for hiking, relaxing in rocky hot spring baths overlooking the ocean or meditating in a luxury mountain retreat.

19. Flock to the forest for relaxation

Forest bathing or ‘Shinrin-yoku’ is a centuries-old tradition that involves immersing yourself in nature. It took off in the 1980s when busy, over-stressed city workers needed help to wind down and re-calibrate. The purpose was twofold: to offer an eco-antidote to tech-boom burnout and to inspire residents to reconnect with and protect the country’s forests. No hiking, running, or mountain-climbing is necessary.

Japan has stunning national parks that make perfect Shinrin-yoku locations. And if you want to combine a spiritual pilgrimage, the Kii Peninsula south of Osaka is home to the sacred forests of the Yoshino-Kumano National Park. https://www.japan.travel/national-parks/parks/yoshino-kumano/

20. Hop on a scenic train ride

Japan has an enviable network of trains. From efficient high-speed Shinkansen to traditional steam trains, you can be transported to a dream destination in whichever style suits you.

For the luxury traveller, the brand-new Shiki-shima, JR East’s most luxurious train offering, travels across Eastern Japan and stops off at some seriously hidden gems and local hotspots, with guests enjoying the sheer beauty of the landscapes on board in-between excursions. https://www.jreast.co.jp/e/ ; https://www.jreast.co.jp/shiki-shima/en/

Shirakawa Go village. Image by Fabian Mardi on Unsplash

21. Stay in a local village

Steeped in history and culture and often set amongst breathtaking natural scenery, Japan's villages are a haven for those desiring a break from city life. In between the mountains and deep woodlands in central Japan lies UNESCO World Heritage Site, Shirakawa-go village, a sprawl of gassho-zukuri houses — unique Japanese-style homes with steep-pitched, thatch-gabled roofs.

Owners have worked to preserve the integrity of the local traditions and landscape by limiting visitors to those who respect the town’s heritage and embrace the spirit of mutual assistance that drives the local culture. http://ml.shirakawa-go.org/en/

For more information, please contact: James Cooley |  [email protected]  | +61 401 316 701

• Previous Article
• Back to Overview
• Next Article
• JNTO Sydney

Please Choose Your Language

Browse the JNTO site in one of multiple languages

Unusual places in Japan to visit at least once in life

• Post author: Traveler Magazine
• Post published: May 27, 2019
• Post category: Asia

Japan is an extraordinary country especially as it is a mix of culture, traditions and unusual places to visit. Besides being able to lose yourself among singular architectures, temples, gardens, there are characteristic places, out of the ordinary .

Japan is full of countless places that inspire and enchate visitors. From historic castles to amazing floral exhibits to the unusual landscapes that seem to be taken from a completely different country, here are some of the most beautiful and not so famous places in Japan that you have to see to believe .

Here are the best unusual places to visit in Japan:

Kiso Valley

Castle of matsumoto, the blue pond, aoshima, the isle of cats, nagoro, the village of dolls, the tree of life, island of shikoku, nachi falls, sand dunes of tottori.

If you want to visit Japan but do not want to follow the usual itinerary, Traveler Magazine has gathered for you all unusual places in Japan that not everyone knows, but that is worth seeing at least once in life .

Unusual places in Japan – Mount Koya

Mount Koya is the spiritual abode of Shingon Buddhism, a sect founded more than 1,200 years ago by one of Japan’s most important religious figures, Kobo Daishi. The main temple of the sect, Kongobu-Ji, is located on the top covered by the forest of Mount Koya. More than 100 other temples have been established around Mount Koya, many of which offer visitors an overnight stay.

Noto Peninsula

Comprising the northern section of Ishikawa Prefecture, the Noto Peninsula is home to some of Japan’s most stunning and unusual coastal landscapes and pristine countryside landscapes. In addition to admiring the natural scenery, the peninsula offers a number of points for fishing, swimming and camping.

Read also: Best Things To Do In Sintra

Its main tourist centre, the town of Wajima is one of the unusual places in Japan and a home to less than 30,000 people and is a wonderful place to experience the life of the small Japanese city.

Shikoku is the fourth largest island and one of the most unusual places in Japan, located to the southwest of the main island of Honshu, to which it is connected by two systems of bridges. The island is also linked to the influential monk Kobo Daishi as the seat of the 88 itinerary of the temple, one of the country’s most important pilgrimages. In addition to attracting those who seek spiritual attainment, the island offers some spectacular coastline, mountain ranges and tumbling rivers.

Read also: Stairs in the woods

The Kiso Valley, one of the unusual places in Japan, is home to the Nakasendo Trail, one of only five Edo-period highways linking Edo (Tokyo) and Kyoto. Travelers during this period have made this long journey on foot and, as a result, the Kiso Valley is strewn with historic towns where travelers rested, ate and slept along the way. You can walk a part of this old highway, between mountains and dense forests, as well as visit some of the well-preserved cities.

Unusual places in Japan – Shodoshima

Shodoshima has a mild climate and a Mediterranean atmosphere, home to beaches, spectacular coastlines, resorts and even olive plantations. The second largest island of the Seto Inland Sea, Shodoshima is one of the guests of the Contemporary art Festival of the Setouchi Triennial, and the outdoor installations of the previous festivals are visible throughout the island.

Read also: Best places to live in Japan

Kenrokuen Garden Park

Named one of the three “most beautiful landscaped and most unusual places in Japan”, the Kenrokuen Garden is full of fascinating bridges, trails, teahouses, trees and flowers. Once the outer garden of Kanazawa Castle, Kenrokuen was opened to the public in the late NINETEENTH century. Each season reveals a different side of the beauty of the garden, from plum and cherry blossoms in spring to the colourful leaves of maple in the fall.

Matsumoto Castle is one of the few original castles left in Japan. Initially built in 1504, this unusual place was expanded to its present form between the late SIXTEENTH and early SEVENTEENTH century. Nicknamed Karasu-jō (Crow’s Castle), it is known for its beautiful three-tower black and white keep.

The waterfalls of Nachi are the highest waterfall (with a single drop) in the country, falling down 133 meters (436 feet) in a rushing river below. The waterfall is dominated by the beautiful Shinto shrine Nachi Taisha, which is said to have more than 1,400 years. Built in honor of the Kami of the waterfall (God of spirits) of the waterfall, the sanctuary is one of the most beautiful and uncommon Buddhist and Shinto religious places in Japan that lie around the waterfall.

Are you ready for the summer? You love Spain? Check our “ Popular beaches in Spain ” guide!

Tateyama Kurobe route

The Alpine Route Tateyama Kurobe connects the city of Toyama in Toyama Prefecture with the city of Omachi in Nagano Prefecture. The route can be approached with various types of transport, including the cable car, cable car and trolleybus, offering spectacular views of the surrounding Tateyama mountain range. The most impressive part of the route is the road between Bijodaira and Murodo, which is surrounded by snow walls 20 meters high from April to May each year.

The Blue Pond in Hokkaido Prefecture, also called Aoiike, is known for its ethereal blue color. Tree stumps that protrude from the surface of the water add to its otherworldly appearance.

Read also: Places to visit in Brazil

This artificial pond was created as part of an erosion control system, designed to protect the area from the mud flows that can occur from the nearby mountain. Maybe one of the most unusual places in Japan – Tokachi volcano. The disturbing blue color of the pond is caused by natural minerals dissolved in the water.

Hitachi Seaside Park

Hitachi Seaside Park is famous for its bluette flower fields, called Nemophilas, which bloom through the park in the spring. The park comprises 190 hectares (470 acres) and more than 4.5 million of flowers cover its fields every April. During the autumn, the rounded shrubs of the park called Kochia (Bassia in English) assume a brilliant crimson color, creating an almost equally fascinating view.

Gokayama Park

Gokayama is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site that also includes the nearby village of Shirakawa-gō. Both unusual places in Japan are known for their traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses. These secular houses have distinct thatched roofs, designed to withstand heavy snowfalls. Gokayama is less accessible than the popular Shirakawa-gō and, as a result, its villages are quieter and more secluded.

The first place for most unusual places in Japan is for the sand dunes of Tottori. They are part of the Sanin Kaigan National Park in the Tottori prefecture. Stretching for 16 kilometers along the coast of the Sea of Japan, the dunes are the largest in the country. The tidal movement and the wind make the dune shapes change steadily, but they can be up to two kilometers wide and 50 meters high. The camels are widely available, making the area have a beautiful and desert atmosphere.

An army of wild cats reigns supreme on the remote island of Aoshima in southern Japan, where the fishing village is literally overrun by felines, outnumbering the men six to one.

Kyoto, the bamboo forest

Walking along the path you will only hear the sound of the wind blowing through the bamboo and all around you, it will be so extraordinary that it will almost seem a surreal landscape, one of those in which there is always doubt whether they are true or not. The bamboo forest of Sagano in Arashiyama, a neighborhood on the western outskirts of Kyoto resembles an earthly paradise.

Nostalgia, memories, desolation. Here are the first impressions that emerge when you look at the images of Valley of the Dolls, as it was nicknamed a village in Japan abandoned for years and then repopulated thanks to the dolls.

The pond of Monet’s water lilies

A pond that closely resembles Monet’s paintings, with particular reference to the cycle of water lilies, which consists of over 200 works. The wonderful pond is located in Japan near the town of Seki.

The magic of Momijigari

Autumn is one of the best seasons to visit the unusual places in Japan because here there is a centuries-old tradition called Momijigari, which is hunting maple or reddish leaves. At this time of year, the forest turns into a palette of colours.

The Suicide Forest

At the foot of Mount Fuji in Japan lies a disturbing forest, the Aokigahara better known as the Suicide Forest because this is a cursed place where people decide to die. So maybe this is only to be watched from a distance!

The Temple with female breasts

In the small town of Kudoyama in Japan there is a very unusual building, the Jison-in. Seen from the outside it is the same as any Buddhist temple, but inside the walls are covered with gadgets that reproduce female breasts.

The Japanese Tree of Life is 144 years old, a clear indicator of longevity. It is located throughout Ashikaga Flower Park. It was from this Japanese tree that the director of Avatar, James Cameron, was inspired to make his film.

Unusual places in Japan – Gifu

Of Gifu Prefecture many people know Shirakawa-go and Takayma, two unusual places in Japan that we also recommend in some of our travel blog posts. When you visit them if you want to stay a few more days to know all the other aspects of this part of Japan, little visited by tourists.

Read also: What to see in Barcelona

Take a thermal bath in Gero Onsen where the water leaves your skin silky smooth, walk in the village of Magome on the ancient Nakasendo road, admire the cormorant fishing on the Nagara river in the city of Gifu and much more. One of the typical dishes of Gifu is hoba miso, a dish in which various ingredients are cooked on magnolia leaves together with a sweet miso. It is a very tasty dish, unknown even to Japanese people living elsewhere.

Beppu is considered one of the best places in Japan for onsen and is very well known among the Japanese. In the center of the city there are the hells of Beppu and you can see the hot springs and the force of nature, you can stay in fabulous ryokan, get buried in the healthy and warm volcanic sand and much more.

Read also: Best place to visit in Liverpool

Relatively few foreign tourists come here because it is one of the most unusual places in Japan, but many are afraid of the distance that is with Tokyo. Consider however, from Hiroshima to Beppu the shinkansen train takes only 3 hours, although we recommend you to take a comfortable and cheap domestic flight from Haneda airport, where there is never a queue and the check-in is done in no time.

Unusual places in Japan – Tohoku

Tohoku is a very large region north of Tokyo and includes 6 prefectures. You certainly can’t see it all and I recommend it to those who have already seen other parts of Japan and are looking for something rural. In Tohoku the two best places for onsen and ryokan are Ginzan Onsen and Nyuto Onsen. The village of Ouchujuku is very characteristic even if it is a bit difficult to reach. The park of Hirosaki Castle, near Aomori, is considered one of the best spots in all of Japan for cherry blossoms, which here have their maximum flowering around the first week of May.

You Might Also Like

Important Factors That You Should Know Before Teaching English Abroad

25 places to visit in Singapore in 2023

When is the best time to visit Thailand?

Thank you for visiting travelermagazine.net, privacy overview.

Bucket List Seekers

Extraordinary Travel for Ordinary Couples

Japan , Travel Inspiration · March 2, 2022

Japan Hidden Gems: 30+ Best Places to get Off the Beaten Path in Japan

Are you looking to get off the beaten path in Japan? There are so many totally underrated Japan hidden gems to add to your itinerary. Read on to discover our top 30 underrated places in Japan!

It’s safe to say that we absolutely adore Japan. We fell in love with the country from the first moment we landed. From the fascinating culture to the delicious food, and the lovely Japanese people.

Japan is one of those countries we could totally go back to again and again. And it’s a really hot destination to visit in 2024 , largely due to their borders being closed for so long.

When most travellers  visit Japan for the first time , they usually plan either a 7-day or 14-day itinerary around Japan, visiting the typical tourist hotspots – a quick tour around Tokyo, followed by a  few days in Kyoto , then maybe spend a day in Osaka or Hiroshima to  tick off the bucket list .

This offers a pretty good taster for first-time travellers, but there is so much more to Japan than these well-known tourist hotspots!

While we totally recommend that first time visitors to Japan focus on these 5 destinations , if you want to discover some of Japan’s off-the-beaten-path hidden gems during your visit, then perhaps you could pick a few of these (mostly) undiscovered places to add to your itinerary!

Whether you’re planning a trip to  Japan in Autumn , Spring, Summer, or winter. There’s a hidden gem on this list for every season!

These stunning hidden gems will inspire you to get off the beaten path in Japan!

Related Japan articles you might enjoy:

• The Ultimate Guide to Planning a trip to Japan
• The Ultimate Japan Bucket List
• 5 Best Places to Visit in Japan for First Timers
• A Complete Guide to Visiting Hakone, Japan
• 20 Things You Should Know Before Visiting Japan for the First Time

No time to read this now? Pin it for later!

Did You Know?  We use ads to help pay the bills so we can continue to publish free travel advice. We also have affiliate partnerships, so when you click through and make a purchase or book your stay from one of our blog posts, we may receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you). Thank you for supporting Bucket List Seekers! Read our  Disclosure Policy  for more details.

In This Post:

Off the Beaten Path in Japan – At A Glance

• Kumano Kodo
• Izu Peninsula
• Naoshima Island

Top 15 Japan Off the Beaten Path Spots

#1 | Okinawa

The birthplace of karate is considered one of the most beautiful parts of Japan. But Okinawa is one of those hidden gems in Japan that won’t remain a secret for long. It’s quickly gaining a reputation amongst western tourists.

The tropical paradise is often called the “Hawaii of Japan”. With its incredible beaches and wild jungle, it is the perfect combination of untouched yet developed enough. 

Okinawa  would be the ideal destination for nature and water lovers who admire the natural beauty and laid-back island life. But beautiful surroundings are not the only thing the island is famed for. Expect to see the cherry blossoms (in spring, of course) and taste some divine cuisine. 

How to Get There:  A flight from Tokyo to Okinawa takes about 3 hours.

Where to Stay: Ishigaki Guesthouse HIVE (Budget) | ANA InterContinental Manza Beach Resort (Splurge)

Read More:   20 Things You Should Know Before Visiting Japan for the First Time

#2 | Kumano Kodo

If you are in search of one of Japan’s true hidden gems, look no more!  Kumano Kodo  – an ancient pilgrimage trail that heads in the mountains of Wakayama – is not commonly visited but should be on every  adventure traveller’s bucket list . 

Well-known amongst hiking addicts, there are several trails in the Kumano Kodo, some take days (or even weeks) to hike the entire length. Most parts are reachable by bus so you can start and end your hike wherever you like. 

To have the most authentic experience, remember to pack light and stay at the local guesthouses (Ryokans) along the way. 

Although it is possible to hike the Kumano Kodo year-round, be prepared that winter can bring some snow. 

During your journey, you will spot the Nachi Falls, which are registered as part of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sacred Sites. While you are there, stop by the Seiganto-Ji Temple to see its vermilion 3-story pagoda. 

How to Get There:  Catch the Kuroshio limited express from Osaka (Shin-Osaka Station) to Kii-Tanabe Station.

Where to Stay: Kosenkaku Yoshinoya (Ryokan)

Read More:   The Best Places to See Autumn Colours in Japan

#3 | Hakone

Although Hakone is located just a bit more than a 1-hour train ride away from the south of Tokyo, it is often overlooked by western tourists. That is a pity because the beautiful region has plenty to offer.

From quaint mountain towns to  traditional Ryokans with onsen , stunning mountain views, active volcanos, and beautiful lakes. It’s also one of the  best places to see autumn foliage  or cherry blossoms in spring.

While you are there, make sure to make a day trip to the  Hakone Air Museum , where you will find one of the most extensive Picasso exhibits in the world. 

Use our detailed  guide to Hakone  to help plan your trip!

How to Get There:  Catch the Odakyu Limited Express Romancecar from Shinjuku Station to Hakone-Yumoto Station. If you plan to use a Japan Rail Pass, you’ll need to depart from Tokyo Station or Shinagawa Station instead.

Where to Stay: Onsen Guest House Tsutaya (Budget) | Hakone Gora Byakudan (Splurge)

Read More:   A Complete Guide to Visiting Hakone, Japan

#4 | Lake Biwa

Lake Biwa  might be Japan’s largest freshwater lake, located in the Shiga Prefecture, but it’s also one of the most underrated places in Japan to visit! 

There are plenty of things to do around the lake. From island hopping by boat, swimming, windsurfing, exploring majestic castles, traditional villages, and discover the regions amazing cuisine (having some sweetfish and carp is a must!). The best part – the lake can be accessed in 10 minutes from  Kyoto . 

Don’t miss the Shirahige Shrine, with the “floating” torii gate in the water.

How to Get There:  Take a JR Tokaido train line from Kyoto Station to Otsu Station.

Where to Stay: Inase Otsu Machiya (Budget) | Lake Biwa Marriott Hotel (Splurge)

Read More:   The Perfect Kyoto 2 Day Itinerary

#5 | Takayama

Located in the mountainous Hida region of Gifu Prefecture,  Takayama  is one of the most unique places to visit in Japan, offering a more traditional experience than other parts of the country. 

Another great spot to  see autumn foliage  and cherry blossoms in spring, Takayama is known for its heritage-listed old township and superb local food – including ramen, sake, wasakana, and sansei. It’s the perfect Japan hidden gem for the curious gourmand!

How to Get There:  Take a train from Nagoya (about 4.5 hours), Toyana (5 hours) or Matsumoto.

Where to Stay: Miyamaso (Budget) | Takayama Ouan (Splurge)

#5 | Funaya

Are you a fan of Venice? Turns out – you can have a feel of Italy while being in Japan. In fact, “Funaya” translates into “the Boathouses of Ine” and is often called the “Venice of Japan”. 

Located in the northern part of  Kyoto  Prefecture, it is a truly fascinating destination and one of the most unique places to visit in Kyoto . A seaside village with wooden boathouses built right on the water. Due to its unique appearance, it’s a very popular spot for filming movies and TV shows. 

It’s possible to visit Funaya on a day trip from Kyoto city centre. Be sure to take a boat cruise to see the boathouses from the water or join a cycle tour to learn about the town’s history.

How to Get There:  Take the train from Kyoto (Amanohashidate Station on the Kyoto Tango Miyatoya Railway Line), then the Tankai Bus to Ine (1 hour).

Where to Stay: Hanayuzuki (Ryokan)

Read Next: Top 25 Things to do in Kyoto

#6 | Asahikawa

If you are not afraid of the snow, Asahikawa should be on your  travel bucket list  because it is one of the best secret places in Japan. 

Located on Japan’s Hokkaido Island and surrounded by the Taisetsuzan mountains, the area offers epic snow dumps in winter, so it is a much-loved destination for skiers and snowboarders. 

When exploring the city, visiting its famous zoo to see polar bears, penguins and orangutans is a must. The city is also known for its winter festival where you will see incredible ice sculptures. Don’t forget to try the famous Asahikawa Ramen while you’re there.

Keep in mind, though – Asahikawa is the coldest city in the country, so bring your jacket!

How to Get There:  Limited express trains connect Sapporo with Asahikawa (approx. 80 minutes).

Where to Stay: 9 C Hotel Asahikawa (Budget) | OMO7 Asahikawa by Hoshino Resorts (Splurge)

#7 | Izu Peninsula

Nestled around 100km southwest of Tokyo, the mountainous Izu Peninsula is one of Japan’s stunning natural hidden gems. 

Expect to see impressive rock formations, stunning beaches and lush greeneries. Also, make sure to visit Mount Omuro – one of the largest volcanoes in the Izu region.

Being so close to Tokyo, it is the perfect day trip destination for anyone looking to escape the city. But being a resort area, it’s perfect for a weekend getaway with beautiful hotels and hot springs – so you might want to stay a little longer.

How to Get There:  The train from Tokyo to the peninsula takes about 50 minutes.

Where to Stay: Hostel Knot (Budget) | AWA Nishi-Izu (Splurge)

#8 | Niigata

Niigata is the capital city of the Niigata Prefecture located on the west coast of Japan. Set along the coast of the Sea of Japan, Niigata is famed for its rice (make sure to discover all the majestic rice fields) and incredible sake. 

In whichever season you decide to travel to Niigata, know it will be a pleasant surprise. In summer – enjoy the spectacular fireworks, while in winter – put on your snow boots and hop on the slopes. 

How to Get There:  The city is easily accessed by train from almost any part of the country, but the most common route is from Tokyo.

Where to Stay: Niigata Book Inn (Budget) | Hotel Oohashi Yakata-no-Yu (Splurge)

#9 | Kyushu

If you really want to experience hidden Japan, Kyushu is the right place to be. Active volcanoes, natural hot springs, mouth-watering food, and a bustling metropolis – it is hard to describe the colourful island in just one sentence. 

The southernmost of Japan’s main islands, Kyushu’s sub-tropical climate is popular amongst surfers who enjoy catching waves between Hyuga and Cape Toi. 

The island also offers active volcanos, beautiful beaches, pumping waves, and natural hot springs. When hunger kicks in, satisfy your inner foodie by tasting Kyushu’s famous porky Hakata ramen. 

How to Get There:  From Tokyo Station, a train ride to Kyushu takes about 5 hours.

Where to Stay: Shinshiyo (Budget) | Ryokan Shinsen (Splurge)

#10 | Naoshima Island

Admirers of modern art will surely enjoy a visit to Naoshima Island and, more specifically – the  Benesse Art Museum . A trip to the beautiful destination wouldn’t be the same without seeing the Giant Pumpkin – a famous sculpture by Yayoi Kusama.

But even if art isn’t your thing, the island will be a pleasant surprise. Simply rent a bike and explore Naoshima and its breathtaking surroundings. 

How to Get There:  Hop on a train from Osaka to Okayama

Where to Stay: Hotel Art Rock (Budget) | Naoshima Juju Art House (Splurge)

#11 | Tottori

Located on the western coast along the Sea of Japan, Tottori is far different from many of these other Japan hidden spots. While most places in Japan offer volcanos and hot springs, Tottori offers massive sand dunes and ancient ruins.

Yep, in fact Tottori is well known for its glorious sand dunes, which are the largest in Japan – they cover more than 30 square kilometres. The ruins of the former feudal castle are also a must-see.

When getting off the beaten path in Japan, don’t forget to discover the Uradome Coast which features impressive rocky islands, breathtaking sandy beaches, and beautiful pine trees. 

How to Get There:  Take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Shin-Osaka Station. Then make a change to Super Hakuto. Plan about 6 hours for the whole journey.

Where to Stay: Drop Inn Tottori (Budget) | Super Hotel Tottori Ekimae (Splurge)

#13 | Kanazawa

At first glance, Kanazawa might seem like your typical urban destination. But as you look deeper, you will find that it has plenty of traditions and even thought-provoking crafts. It’s also the place to go if you want to see the famed snow monkeys!

Up until recently, the capital city of Ishikawa Prefecture was tourist-free. Now, it has become a must-hit stop for amazing food, culture and art. So, when you’re tired of wandering around Tokyo, hop on a bullet train and just in three hours, you will arrive in the beautiful city.

How to Get There:  Catch the JR Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo

Where to Stay: Hotel Pacific Kanazawa (Budget) | Hyatt Centric Kanazawa (Splurge)

#14 | Nikko

Japan is famed for its pulsing energy and vibrant way of life, but that can be a bit tiring for some. If you’re looking for a spot to calm your mind, plan a trip to  Nikko National Park  – a great place to learn more about the country’s traditions and World Heritage Sites. 

Located just a two-hour train ride away from Tokyo, the city will surprise you with its mountain wilderness and stunning temples. Although Nikko is mostly regarded as a day trip destination, you won’t regret staying a few nights there.

How to Get There:  Catch the JR Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Utsunomiya Station and transfer to the JR Nikko Line.

Where to Stay: Minshuku Fukufuji (Budget) | The Ritz-Carlton Nikko (Splurge)

#15 | Matsumoto

Last, but not least, on this list of places to go off the beaten track in Japan is the city where you will see one of Japan’s most stunning castles – Matusmoto, the second largest city in Nagano Prefecture.

Matusmoto is surrounded by the Japanese Alps, its beauty is truly mesmerising. It’s a great place to base yourself for access to mountain resorts, skiing and winter activities. 

Wander around the streets of Matsumoto and enjoy its delightful cafes, or in winter check out the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, a unique road through the alps cut through the snow forming a majestic “snow corridor”, where the snow walls on either side can tower as high as 20 metres.

How to Get There:  The train journey between Tokyo’s Shinjuku Station and Matsumoto takes just a bit more than 2.5 hours.

Where to Stay: cafe&stay CASTANA (Budget) | Shoho (Splurge)

Looking for More Japan Hidden Gems?

If you’re looking to discover more Japan off the beaten path places, then here are 15 additional spots that didn’t make the cut for this article but are still worth considering:

• Yukushima Island
• Sado Island
• Mount Koyasan
• Historic villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama
• Takachiho Gorge
• Geibikei Gorge
• Shizuoka City

Have we missed any noteworthy Japan hidden gems?  Can you recommend other off the beaten path places in Japan for other visitors to check out? Let our readers know about them in the comments below!

Map of Hidden Gems in Japan

Ready to Book Your Trip to Japan?

Not only does Japan offer some amazing hidden gems, but the country as a whole is also a true gem in the world, waiting to be discovered!

We hope this article has helped you to find some off the beaten path places to visit on your next trip to the land of the rising sun! To make the most of your trip, be sure to check out the latest travel information and restrictions by visiting the  official Japan tourism website . 

Also, don’t forget to check out our other  Japan  travel blog articles:

Read More About Japan:

• The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Trip to Japan for First Timers
• 30+ Places to Get Off the Beaten Path in Japan
• The Ultimate Japan Bucket List: 230+ Experiences
• 20 Things You Should Know before Visiting Japan for the First Time

Looking for Somewhere to Stay in Japan?

Use the search box below to take advantage of the  Booking.com  Best Price Guarantee and get the best rates on accommodation in Japan!

Feeling inspired?  Here are  10 amazing destinations you must add to your Travel Bucket List !

About the Author:

Amanda Twine is the founder and creator of Bucket List Seekers – a luxury travel blog sharing informative travel guides, food guides, hotel reviews, itineraries, and tips about how to make luxury travel more affordable.

Connect with us on Facebook  | Instagram | X | Pinterest . If you found this article helpful, please share it with your friends!

Share This Post:

Get Access to our FREE Travel Resources Library!

Subscribe and get exclusive access to loads of printable planning checklists, maps, itineraries, destination bucket lists, and more!

You’ll Also Love

Top 10 Things to Do in Jordan

• Destinations
• Travel Guides
• Travel Itineraries
• Travel Tips
• Accommodation

Join Our Newsletter

And get exclusive access to our FREE Travel Planning Resources!

• Work With Us
• Disclosure Policy
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy

Copyright © 2024 Bucket List Seekers

Privacy Overview

The Strong Traveller

Experience The Finest Travel, Food and Lifestyle Stories Around The World

10 Most Unique Places You Must Visit In Japan

Written By Aranya Agarwal .

A place where modern outlook and traditional beliefs walk hand in hand, Japan, is definitely one of the top destinations on every travellers’ bucket list. A country that possesses magnificent scenic views, historical castles, and beautiful floral displays. The unusual sights of this island country look exactly like something out of a fairytale. 

With great food and unusual sites at its centre, Japan has been winning the hearts of travellers for ages.

It wouldn’t be wrong to say that Japan is a hub for great food, vivid culture, and spectacular places. Basically, a traveller’s paradise on earth.

Owing to the great history of the country, Japan has some gems embedded in it, which are not yet discovered. These hidden gems of Japan provide a true picture of the great civilization that lies on the foundation of the country. 

We all know Japan as one of the most powerful and prosperous island countries in East Asia. What we don’t know is that Japan was inhabited for the first time during the upper-palaeolithic period, and since then Japan has been a part of many significant cultural, political, and economical changes in the world. 

The fourth most populous country in the world, Japan definitely has some of the most amazing ‘unique’ places that would surely gratify a traveller’s curiosity.

Thus, below are some of the most unique places in Japan, that will make you want to visit it and learn more about it.

1. Mount Koya

A place denoting peace, and tolerance, Mount Koya is complex, made up of shrines, pagodas, and temples. The place dates back to the year 816 AD and is said to be one of the ancient religious places in Japan. Moreover, the complex also became the emergence of Shingon Buddhism, which was founded by Kobo Daishi, thousands of years ago. 

Mount Koya is a perfect representation of religious peace in Japan, as it holds the essence of Japanese traditions, Buddhism, and Shintoism. One of the largest places of Buddhist worship, it is embellished with natural views that envelop the complex, making it a UNESCO world heritage site.

2. Sagano Bamboo Forest

If you are looking for an eye-catching landscape, then the Sagano Bamboo Forest is just the right place for you. Unique to Japan’s culture, this forest is located in Arashiyama, Kyoto. Sagano Bamboo Forest mainly comprises ‘Moso bamboos’ that are native to Japan. The interesting fact about the forest is that the ministry of the environment of Japan considers the forest as a soundscape of Japan. 

A serene nature spot, the forest provides the visitors with a picturesque view, and a calming voice of the rattling of bamboos. This voice is so meditative and peaceful that it fills the human soul with a feeling of tranquillity. 

A contrasting representation of Japan’s highly urbanized life, Sagano Bamboo Forest is really unusual in every sense.

3. Nishinomaru Garden

A garden that could only be found in Japan, the Nishinomaru garden is home to the most beautiful flowers that couldn’t be seen in any other part of the world. The garden beholds in its womb the native flowers of Japan which also includes the infamous cherry blossom. A fascinating place, Nishinomaru garden is situated in Osaka and is not very far away from the main city. 

The most dazzling aspect of the garden is the Osaka castle that is situated near it.

One of the heritage sites of Japan, both the Nishinomaru garden and the Osaka castle holds historical and cultural significance in Japan.

4. Aokigahara Suicide Forest

If you have watched ‘the dark tourist’ on Netflix, then you must have been aware of this particular place in Japan. A thrilling destination for all the travellers, this place holds a lot of social dilemma and significance. Aokigahara forest, also known as the sea of trees, is a popular forest situated on Mount Fuji.

The forest is notorious as a suicide spot in Japan, and one can easily trace personal artefacts belonging to people while strolling through the forest. The forest is said to have a spooky vibe to it, with rumours of several paranormal activities. 

If you are someone looking for some thrill and dark adventure, well! This place might be just right for you.

5. Jigokudani Monkey Park

A unique place situated in the Nagano Prefecture, this place is a part of the Joshinetsu Kogen National park. The interesting part of the Jigokudani monkey park is the steam that erupts out of the boiling water that could be found in small cleavages of the frozen lake. The park is surrounded by cold and misty forests, thus giving it a landscape view. 

Jigokudani park is mostly uncrowded given its high elevation and heavy rainfall, despite its popularity. 

Moreover, several wild Japanese Macaques could be found in this park. 

A great place to visit to get a moment away from the hustle-bustle of the city.

Also Read: Top 11 Remote Hostels Around The World .

6. Japanese Cat Cafes

One of the most unique places in the world. Japan takes delight and honour in presenting its unique cat cafes. A country where cats rule humans, the cat cafes in Japan are a must-visit. Several cat cafes could be found strolling through the capital city of Japan, Tokyo. 

The idea behind the cat cafes is to provide people a way to pet animals, especially cats, and get some time away from their busy schedules, and spend time with these wise and fun creatures.

Tell them your tales, pet them, or maybe feed them food, cat cafes make you feel cherished and relaxed at the same time. 

The infrastructure and the ambience in the cat cafes are astonishingly unique as well.

7. Nagoro Island

This island holds a history that is both ‘creepy’ but also ‘interesting’. Nagaro is a village that has been shrinking with time. The residents of the village left it in search of employment. After several years, Tsukimi Ayano visited the village and made the dolls in remembrance of every member of the village. 

Today, the Nagaro island is infamous as the doll island, as it is home to more than three hundred life-size dolls that look exactly like humans. 

Strolling through the Nagaro island, the visitors could find eye-catching monuments, and wonderful lakes as well.

8. Okinoshima Island

A traditional place in Japan, Okinoshima island holds religious importance in the hearts of the natives. The ‘unique’ aspect of the island is that women are completely banned from entering the place, and men must strip their torsos naked before entering. 

Moreover, only two hundred men are allowed to visit the temple on the island, once a year. Okinoshima island is a place of great cultural importance in Japan and hence is also authorized and recognized as a UNESCO world heritage site. 

9. Pokemon Centre

Do you still miss Pokemon, or the sound of Pikachu – pika pika!! Well, if you do, then this place is going to fill your heart and soul with happiness. It is unreal for this place to exist on earth, but it does. 

For all the pokemon fans, there is a pokemon centre situated in Japan. In fact, there are several stores in different cities of the country. You can find great pokemon goodies, hampers, stuff toys, games, and lots more. So the next time you head to Japan doesn’t forget to visit this fun-filled place. 

10. Miyajima Island

If you are looking for a place to view the mesmerizing sunrise or the sunset, then Miyajima island is where you should head to. Not far away from Hiroshima, this island offers the most serene and beautiful views in the whole of Japan. 

Moreover, it is the most unexplored island in Japan as it is covered by mostly forests and tiny villages, thus, it doesn’t hold any chaos or hustle-bustle as compared to the other islands of the country. 

An ideal place for soul-searchers, who want to get away from the noisy voice of the outer world, and listen to the sounds of within.

A place where deers and humans walk side by side along the shores of the sea, it is great for spending an evening alone or with loved ones. 

Roman Coppola, an American filmmaker once said, “Japan is the most intoxicating place for me. The Japanese culture fascinates me: the food, the dress, the manners and the traditions. It’s the travel experience that has moved me the most.”

And, I believe that we all couldn’t agree with it more.  

All the places in japan have an essence of their culture and traditions embedded in them. Whether it be the Nagaro island or the modern Japanese cat cafes. Every destination in Japan holds close significance to the lives of people and the art that they signify.  

Nature, unlike in other countries, holds the most importance in the architecture and the destinations of Japan. 

Japan is still one of the only countries that still cherishes its natural landscape more than its urban. Every place in Japan is raw and untouched making it a country with several ‘unusual’ and ‘unique’ destinations. 

A place where nature meets the man-made city, Japan is an ideal destination for every backpacker who is searching for some unreal and mesmerizing destinations. 

is a contributor at The Strong Traveller. She is a graduate student in Sociology and has an ardent interest in writing about different cultures and travelling experiences. She is a keen promoter of minimalism and tries to be sustainable in her lifestyle as much as possible. With an academic background in Sociology, understanding cultures and different needs of the society is amongst her strong pursuits. She has worked with several non-profit organizations and believes in the idea of ‘living every moment to the fullest’. A vivacious person at heart, you can catch her strolling around the streets with dogs by her side.

Share this:

8 thoughts on “ 10 most unique places you must visit in japan ”.

Great post about the places to visit in Japan

Thanks for reading! 🙂

Fantastic photos! We haven’t been to Japan yet but those shots may just make us add it to our list

It’s really great to know you liked our post… thank you ! 🙂

Yeah, I regret never heading to mount Koya! I lived in Kansai for 5 years but just never found the time to head out there. Someday I’ll make another trip back to the Osaka area and head down there for a king of unofficial pilgrimage of sorts. I recently moved to Tokyo, but which area of Japan are you living in?

Hey, first of all, we are really glad and excited that you could relate so much to our post… We are not based out of Japan. We are a small group of people working towards creating a platform for fellow travelers to create and share their stories so that it would be a great help for everyone who is willing to know more and travel around our beautiful planet Earth…

Do follow us as we regularly publish many such beautiful contents, you might fall in love with.. 🙂

Great post – thanks for sharing!

Thank you for reading! 🙂

Comments are closed.

Discover more from The Strong Traveller

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

The 15 BEST Places to Visit in Japan (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: January 27, 2024

From seeing a geisha show or walking the famous Fushimi Inari shrine in Kyoto to exploring the bustling metropolis of Tokyo or staring out at Mount Fuji, here’s our list of the best places to visit in Japan.

Japan is a close-knit island nation that is known for its beautiful cities, unique food, amusement parks, temples, shrines, hot springs, and more.

Hidden gems and beautiful palaces are scattered around the country, from tiny villages right up to the commercial areas in Japan, such as Hiroshima, Osaka or Tokyo.

Travellers flock to Japan to see the beauty of cherry blossom season, or to hike Mount Fuji, ski in the Japan Alps, eat delectable sushi, and more.

But there are lots of unexpected things to do in Japan as well.

Character or animal cafés, vending machines offering a vast array of items, and aquariums showcasing rare and unique marine life are just a few of the best and most interesting things you can view while in Japan.

Don’t travel to Japan without reading our ultimate travel guide!

Table of Contents

4) Yokohama

9) hiroshima, 12) fukuoka, 13) kanazawa, 15) okinawa, anything to add to this list of great places in japan, the best places to visit in japan.

Overall, there are so many must-see and must-experience places to visit in Japan due to the nation’s rich history, location, and culture.

If you’re planning a trip, make sure you use this list to make the most out of your travel to Japan.

Tokyo, the capitol of Japan, is obviously one of the best places to go in central Japan. While Kyoto is viewed as the spiritual center of Japan, Tokyo is seen as the most popular, busiest, and most significant city in the country, and there is no question why.

If you are wondering just what to do in Japan, it’s common knowledge that starting in Tokyo would have you covered as a perfect introduction to the country.

Of course, the city is largely commercialised and there are endless activities to do, especially if you are looking for UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

On a clear winter day it is even possible to have views of Mount Fuji in the distance!

It is important, however, to not forget the little things you can visit and explore – from simple and quiet parks to humble and interesting cafés or the occasional shrine or temple.

One unique place to visit in Tokyo would be Neko JaLaLa, a cat-themed cafe that offers more than your usual coffee destination in Tokyo.

There should be no question as to why Tokyo is famous and beloved for its several towers and overall interesting architecture. Buildings like the Tokyo Tower and the Tokyo Skytree should definitely be places on your travel list.

Both structures are known as Japan tourist spots and two of the best places to visit in Japan.

A trip to the Tokyo Tower offers a beautiful and breathtaking view.

The tower lights up beautifully and elegantly throughout the night, which is also a nice touch and a perfect photo scene.

The Tokyo Skytree offers several experiences throughout its tiers, aside from observation and obtaining a beautiful view.

If you are looking for a less-commercialised and more cultural Japan attraction that is located in Tokyo, the Kaneji Buddhist temple is one of the best things you can do.

Complete with intricately designed gardens, hallways, and statues, this temple is ideal for anyone looking for some relaxation time while in Tokyo.

Also consider taking a day trip to see Mount Fuji, the iconic symbol of Japan.

It doesn’t matter if your stay in Japan is for 48 hours or two weeks, visiting Tokyo is a Japan must-see.

READ MORE: Check out our complete guide to the best things to do in Tokyo .

Check out our Japan Vlog on going to a crazy robot restaurant in Tokyo in Japan.

Osaka is a port-based city that is full of interesting museums, attractions, and a fascinating variety of activities for any visitor to Japan.

No tour of the best places to visit in Japan would be complete without a trip to Osaka.

One thing to enjoy about this city is its versatile points of interest, and great opportunities for the Cherry Blossom season.

Whether it be the classic Osaka Castle or a fun amusement park such as Universal Studios Japan, Osaka really seems to have it all.

Dotonbori should ultimately be your first stop due to the influx of street food vendors, arcades, and shops.

After visiting the many wonderful fantasy worlds of Universal Studios Japan, you go go-karting around the streets.

Other popular attractions in Osaka are the beautiful and grand Tempozan Ferris Wheel, the peaceful Expo Commemoration Park, and the educational and intriguing Osaka Museum of History.

You haven’t completed Japan sightseeing until you’ve made your way to Osaka. And from here it is just a short train ride to the famous city of Kyoto.

READ MORE: Check out our detailed guide on the best things to do in Osaka .

If you are looking for elegant cherry blossoms, peaceful Buddhist temples or the occasional Shinto shrine, then Nara is the ideal travel location for you.

Just a short distance from either Kyoto or Osaka, Nara City is the capital of the Nara prefecture and is one of the most captivating and interesting places to visit in Japan.

Shrines surrounded by peaceful, well-kept canals and ponds are a popular sight. As are long the beautiful and friendly deer that roam freely throughout the prefecture – which are one of the most unique things to see in Japan.

It is apparent that Nara might truly be one of the most peaceful, down-to-earth cities in the world.

Nara Park is a central park located within the city that is full of deer that peacefully roam the park. They are a beautiful and adorable sight to visitors.

One staple of Nara would have to be the several palaces, temples, and Buddhist shrines. Todai-ji is a perfect example and is located right in the city of Nara.

This temple is one of the largest in the area, and plays a great role in its history.

Deer are frequently seen in surrounding areas around the temple, which is a nice touch.

By far, the greatest feature with Todai-ji, however, is the addition of the largest known bronze statue modelled after Buddha.

READ MORE: Here’s our ultimate list of things to do in Nara, Japan .

Yokohama is one of the more authentic places to visit in Japan if you would like a taste of Japanese culture, some history, and a tad bit of everything else.

One example of how Yokohama stands out against other popular cities and tourist spots in Japan would be the inclusion of Yokohama Chinatown.

Similar to Dotonbori, the Yokohama Chinatown area is ideal for those who love to experience street food as it is popularly offered and sold throughout the area.

If you are looking to take a quiet and enchanting walk, a stop at the Sankeien Garden in Yokohama couldn’t hurt as well.

A trip through this park can help relax you after a long day of exploring and visiting different streets and locations throughout the city.

The design of the garden is very traditional and reminiscent of older gardens and contains a beautiful pond surrounded by lush trees and shrubs.

One might enjoy viewing the Tempozan Ferris wheel light up at night. And Yokohama offers beautiful fireworks shows available during specific seasons.

Due to Yokohama being a port city for trading, these shows easily take place in Yokohama at the Yamashita Park, and are enjoyed greatly by both tourists and locals alike.

READ MORE: Here’s our brand new article featuring the best things to do in Yokohama .

As Okinawa is known for its glorious beaches, the small town of Hakone is known for the natural beauty of its mountainous terrain, waterways, and hot springs.

By far the most prominent and well-known attraction is Lake Ashi that makes Hakone one of the most fun places to visit in Japan.

The lake paired with other attractions makes Hakone one of the most beautiful and captivating cities to spend some time during your next vacation.

The picture-perfect and relaxing scenery also helps it make the list as one of Japan’s tourist spots. With views of Mount Fuji, Hakone is one of the best places to see and do it all.

Lake Ashi is surrounded by beautiful mountains, which help to compliment the glistening blue water.

The Hakone Open-Air Museum is also another great reason to visit Hakone, as it compliments the feel and aesthetic of the place due to the large collection of creative artwork.

READ MORE: Here’s our guide to the best things to do in Hakone !

The capital city of Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, is an absolute gem and one of the best cities on our list of Japanese tourist spots.

Whether it’s your first or fifth time to this fascinating country, make sure you spend some time in Sapporo, a metropolis that is buzzing with excitement and culture.

Whether you want to check out Japan’s biggest zoo or visit the marvelous winter snow festival, you’ll find no shortage of attractions here.

It’s also a great jumping-off point for exploring more of Hokkaido, so definitely use it as a base to plan your next moves.

READ MORE: Here’s our travel guide to the top things to do in Sapporo .

With destinations like the Nagoya TV Tower and the Nagoya Castle, this area can easily be compared to Osaka and Tokyo based on the famous and must-see landmarks.

There is even a museum dedicated to science: Nagoya City Science Museum.

This museum may sound a bit general. But its complex and interactive activities help engage and educate visitors and is home to what is known as the  world’s biggest planetarium  – making it a famous gem of Japan.

Perhaps the highlight of Nagoya and one of the best things to do is to tour the Nagoya TV Tower.

This tower consists of five floors and is a beautiful sight with its glowing appearance during the night.

The sky deck, which is at the topmost floor of the tower, offers a grand view of the city and famous mountains in the area.

The Nagoya Castle is the heart of Japan and another great symbol within the nation of Japan. You wouldn’t be able to miss this elegant structure in Nagoya.

This specific castle stems all the way from the Edo period and is lined with alluring Japanese artwork that is lit and brightened up greatly by the strategically placed windows and shading.

Be careful to not forget the entertainment halls and theatres, so you can enjoy a great concert or show while in Nagoya.

And if you’re looking for views of Mount Fuji then you can add this place to your list. Nagoya offers gorgeous views of the famous Mount Fuji!

READ MORE: Here’s our list of the best things to do in Nagoya .

While there is much to do on the island of Honshu, Kyoto is almost always at the top of the list of places to see in Japan.

Based on the prominent pagodas, the influx of cherry blossoms, and the rich history included, it is no wonder why Kyoto was once the capital of the great nation of Japan.

Due to the extravagant history Kyoto has throughout wars and harsh time periods, castles and unique Japanese structures have come to cover the region.

By  exploring Kyoto , you have the choice to learn about Japan, its people and its culture in a very motivating, intriguing, and interesting way.

Geishas are also a prominent entertainment force in Kyoto, making it one of the best places in Japan to view a show.

The Sento Imperial Palace is a peaceful palace that offers a tour that is free and is a fantastic way to discover and learn about Japanese palaces and history while exploring the area.

If you are looking to buy some authentic and quality Japanese goods, Kyoto should also be in mind. Many tourists buy keepsakes or tokens from their trip here, as shopping is fantastic.

The Kitano Tenman-Gu flea market is the perfect shop for this as it offers a wide range of products such as intricately designed fans, umbrellas, and yukatas.

Of course, no trip to Kyoto is complete without visiting Fushimi Inari, an important Shinto shrine known for its temple and the thousands of brightly coloured torii gate.

READ MORE: Don’t miss our complete guide to the best things to do in Kyoto !

Recent history hasn’t been kind to Hiroshima, a city that is most famous for having the atomic bomb dropped on it during World War II, completely decimating the city.

But for such a tragic event, Hiroshima has fully rebuilt itself, and today is one of the top selections for where to go in Japan. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is one of the top Japan tourist attractions.

The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, the main feature of Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, is one of the best known places in Japan. Memorializing a terrible event near the end of World War II, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the more sacred places to visit in the city.

Nearby Miyajima Island is a fantastic place to spend a day and definitely worth a visit. The Hiroshima Castle is sure to wow you as well.

In terms of unique sights and tourist attractions, the Itsukushima Shrine really stands out, literally, by rising out of the water.

Don’t let the idea of a crumpled city stop you from visiting – Hiroshima is truly an incredible spot to explore.

READ MORE: Check out our complete guide to the best things to do in Hiroshima.

When visiting Kobe, on the island of Honshu, trying their world-famous beef is a must. You can even have it along with Ramen or other traditional dishes.

Kobe could perhaps be the food destination highlight of your trip finding the best places to visit in Japan, aside from Dotonbori.

Another street to visit in Kobe would be their version of Chinatown, which offers another great opportunity to try street food.

The Kobe City Museum is also a great way to explore the great city of Kobe and its history.

Kobe’s most popular harbour known as the Kobe Harborland is the best outdoor hub for entertainment and shopping alike.

The harbour even boasts a beautiful Ferris wheel that adds a nice touch. If you are searching for a more scenic addition in Kobe, you must visit Mount Rokko. Although it pales in comparison to Mount Fuji, there are great trails and scenery to enjoy.

This landmark is favoured both by tourists and locals, and is unique in its structure when compared to various other mountains scattered throughout the great nation of Japan.

Kobe is also located near Himeji Castle, which in and of itself is a top location in Japan. Take a day trip from Kobe to the famous grounds of Himeji Castle!

READ MORE: Here’s our guide to all the top things to do in Kobe !

Otaru doesn’t always make the list of places to visit in Japan. But its canal scenery is so romantic it could even rival that of Italy.

Different vendors and stores offering a vast array of Japanese goods paired with various restaurants help to make the canal a must-stop destination.

Aside from the canal, be sure to enjoy a wonderful experience and performance at the Otaru Music Box.

The Otaru Aquarium can help finish off your trip with some educational facts and a great view of various marine life.

READ MORE: Check out our complete guide to the best things to do in Otar u

Fukuoka is a fantastic city on the Kyushu island of Japan, and well worth a visit on your next trip to Japan.

With great surfing opportunities, a fascinating samurai history and plenty of sumo wrestling matches to check out, you’ll be amazed at all the great  things to do in Fukuoka.

READ MORE: Here’s our guide to the top things to do in Japan

Kanazawa is located on Honshu Island and bordered by the Sea of Japan. Deriving its name from “marsh of gold” after legend claims a potato farmer dug up gold instead of potatoes in his field one year.

Kanazawa Castle is the city’s most notable feature and one of the best places to visit in the city. It stands tall among various other buildings that were surprisingly spared during bombings in WWII.

The original castle was destroyed in a fire in 1888. But the existing castle still stands after being rebuilt.

Kanazawa is also known for its Edo-period architecture, temples, geishas and cuisine. You can’t go wrong to add Kanazawa to your list of places to visit in Japan.

READ MORE: Check out our complete guide to the best things to do in Kanazawa.

Tohoku is located northeast of Tokyo on the island of Honshu. Very much off the beaten track for most travellers, Tohoku makes the list of best places to visit in Japan for its simplicity and relationship with nature.

Those who travel here know Tohoku for its spectacular coastlines, inviting natural hot springs and intricate cave systems. It is also a great place to see some of the best cherry blossoms in Japan – without all of the crowds you will find elsewhere.

And if you are into studying where modern history meets science, Tohoku is the jumping-off point for exploring the impact of the 2011 tsunami, most notable for it’s destruction of the Fukushima nuclear reactor.

No doubt if you are looking for a place where fewer travellers visit, particularly in spring, then you absolutely must add Tohoku to your list of places to visit in Japan!

Okinawa is Japan’s most tropical island and definitely one of the more unique places to visit in Japan. Surrounded by beautiful beaches and crystal blue ocean water, Okinawa City is a paradise for people of all ages.

A variety of restaurants are scattered all throughout the city, which is perfect if you plan to have dinner and see a show.

Koza Music Town is perfect for those looking for supreme entertainment and shows.

Besides Koza, Okinawa is simply just a paradise for music lovers due to the many different venues and shows that are offered, especially with the famous bars and clubs scattered about.

The Shurijo Castle is a must-see if you are visiting Okinawa. This palace was dedicated to the Ryukyu Kingdom, and boasts a bright red colour and an intricately paved red walkway leading up to the grand entrance of the castle.

If you’re looking for adventure on your next travels to Japan as well, then Okinawa is the place for you. This island is definitely where to go for surfing, scuba diving, kiteboarding and swimming with whale sharks!

READ MORE: Check out our complete guide to the best things to do in Okinawa .

In conclusion, Japan is a vast island nation that is known for its mountain scenery, unique architecture, cherry blossoms, and booming cities.

While travelling there are so many places to visit in Japan and experience on each island and in each city. But it is important to not overlook the small hidden gems in the rural Japan.

Sites and areas like small traditional villages and temples can really add to your overall experience. Whether you visit castles, Buddhist temples or Shinto shrines, enjoy a hot spring or two or come to see the natural beauty of cherry blossom season you understand why the island of Japan and its people are so special.

Aside from trying food in Dotonbori and shopping in the popular streets and stores in Tokyo, be sure to mark the small villages, historic sites, and grand areas for.

Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial, stroll beneath the torii gate of Fushimi Inari in Kyoto and find your favorite shrine or temple in any number of smaller villages and towns.

Do you have anywhere else you’d add to this list? Leave a comment below and let us know your favourite places to visit in Japan!

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Gabby Boucher

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

Love Travel?

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter for the best travel tips, ideas and deals!

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.

READ MORE...

19 BEST Things to Do in Osaka, Japan [2024 Edition]

The Perfect 3 Days in Tokyo Itinerary

The Best Day Trips from Every City in Japan [2024]

Related Posts

25 awesome things to do in tokyo, japan, the ultimate travel guide to oita, japan (2024 edition), ryokan ochiairo review – is this japan’s best ryokan, 8 reasons why you should visit tohoku, japan on your next trip, 22 thoughts on “the 15 best places to visit in japan (2024 guide)”.

Yes I have read this article and very informative article.

Glad you liked the article 🙂

My Granddaughter dream is to go to Japan since she was 11 years old, May 2022 she will be 18 and graduating High School. I want to take her there as a gift to her, because her dream has not wavered, Problem is, I am limited on income and terrified to go to another country, where I know nothing of culture or the language, I understand it is very expensive. Could you give me advice on what we could do to make this memorable for her..without it draining my bank account and where a lot of people speak English. We are country people dont know to much of the outside world, so this will be a culture shock for us. I want to respect their values as well. Any advice will be much appreciated. Food, Places to stay, Sightseeing, cherry blossom, I am leaning on traveling April 4th 2022.

Hi Connie, What an amazing gift. An experience of a lifetime. I am originally from country WA and know exactly what you mean. Japan can be expensive but it also can be reasonable on the budget side. We have an article that has a lot of information that may help you out but I will add a few more tips in. Travel Guide – https://www.nomadasaurus.com/travel-guides/travel-to-japan/ (at the bottom of this article is lots of other Japan posts) Budget – https://www.nomadasaurus.com/budget-travel-in-japan/

There are a lot of people that speck English in the major cities. But menus will be in Japanese sometimes you will find English but the prices may be more expensive. We recommend downloading Japan to English google translate. This will help you out so much. If you are connected to the internet you can hover your camera over a menu and it will translate the writing to English. You can pick up an internet dongle from the airport and have wifi where ever you go for your stay. They can be expensive. Another option is buying an international SIM card. Just check your plan and that there is no extra costs. Your phones plans may charge you international roaming and this will be very expensive. Happened to me in Ireland when I first travelled, costs nearly $1000. I had no idea. Lucky they cut it down but it was a wake up. Transport – I would look into the JR pass. This is a great way to get around the country and you can use it on local transport within the cities too. The train system is incredible and so comfortable. Stops are in English so you can read where you need to get off and at what stop. https://www.jrailpass.com/maps Getting around cities – I would recommend hopping on a city tour or do a free walking tour to get your bearings and ask advice from the guides. The guides would be able to tell you get (and cheap) local restaurants to try. We try to do this in a lot of cities when we first arrive. Getting the public trains are easy enough to get around the cities. Put some maps on your phone or print out a map before you arrive. Food – There are so many amazing stalls. These are the best local food options. They look a little questionable but if it is busy with locals then go there. We ate at a lot of machine meals. This is when you enter the restaurant and choose a meal off a machine, collect your receipt, sit down and a person will collect your receipt and then deliver your meal. These places were great. Do not miss Kyoto and Nara. We really enjoyed these places. The temples, gardens, traditional houses and the culture. When we got off the plane in Japan we went straight to Kyoto and we were so happy we did. Explore Tokyo at the end of your trip. Hope this helps. If you have anymore questions please don’t hesitate to message us. Japan is an amazing country. The people there are so welcoming and helpful.

These are great places for tourism. I must say, your post is like my tour guide now. Thank you for sharing this post with us. Thanks.

Hi Franca, glad you liked the post. Japan has so many wonderful destinations. Have a wonderful trip when you go. Take care. 🙂

Japan has been on our travel bucket list for years now but already planning to visit next year so this gave me a good idea where to go apart from Tokyo and Osaka.

You need to go Julia. I think you would love it. There is so many amazing places to see. We didn’t spend much time in Tokyo and Osaka as we are not city people. We loved Kyoto for the culture. I know it is a city but it did not feel like it. Stay in Gion District if you go. Was amazing. We would get up early and wonder around. Felt like we were the only people there sometimes. Happy planning.

I’m planning a trip to Japan and your blog has been very helpful so far! The first time I was there I mostly went from big city to city, so this time I would like to try smaller towns and your description of Shirakawa makes it sound so lovely. The problem is that Google Maps is showing me two Shirakawa towns! Did you visit the one in Fukushima or in Gifu? Thanks!

Hi Jennifer, sorry about the late reply. This is in the Gifu Prefecture. Thank you for this. I will note it in the paragraph. 🙂

We are heading to Tokyo for the Olympics in July of next year and have a little more than three weeks in Japan with 9 days at the Summer Olympics. We have been to Tokyo and Kyoto before and did most all of the sites that one would, so the timing of this article was perfect as we were looking for more to explore outside of Tokyo and Kyoto next summer after the hustle and bustle during the Olympics. Thanks for giving us a great starting point with the overview of these prefectures. Much Aloha and Kokua for the insight

Hi Dan, so sorry your comment was missed. I know your plans are obviously are cancelled as the Olympics are postponed til next year. I hope you have rescheduled and are still going. If you have time do check out Nakatsugawa. It has a traditional trail. It is beautiful and not far from Tokyo. Check out Sado Island. The coastline and hiking is so beautiful. You can catch a flight down to Oita Island and explore this off the beaten path area. Lots of onsens and great hiking. You do need to rent a car to get around as transport is very limited. Have a great time when you go to Japan.

Truly your shared all these fabulous places are the best for travelling and tourists can enjoy some time with buddies. I also enjoyed myself while I was visiting this kind of places.

So glad you enjoyed your time in Japan. Thanks for reading. 🙂

Thanks for sharing such a beautiful article. It packed of all the information required for the first time visitors and information mentioned above in the article are more than enough gain knowledge about Japan. The article has surely helped me a lot. It would be great if the images of the all places mentioned above were there. Thumbs up for the effort.

Glad we could help. All the best

Thanks for sharing this information regarding travel and tour. I really found this very interesting. And your blog is very useful for us.

Thank you so much. Glad you found the article helpful. Happy travels

I have visiting a few cities in Japan on my bucket list. I shared the blog. The pics are awesome and I enjoyed reading the brief overview of the different cities. I get excited about everything from historical areas, to scenic, and most of all the food. Thanks for the recommendations of Dotonbori and Yokohama chinatown for popular street food.

Thank you so much David. Natalia wrote a great article and made us very jealous. Japan looks like a wonderful place. We are heading there later this year. We can not wait. 🙂

I really like to share your all these adorable images which views very fabulous and cool. I also spent a really good time at ONOMICHI during my last journey and came back with great memories.

Thank you so much. Glad the article brought back good memories for you. 🙂

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

16 Amazing Places To Visit In Japan In 2024

November in Japan? Brace yourself for a double whammy! Witness fiery autumn foliage blazing across ancient temples, then step into a wonderland of twinkling winter illuminations.

Hike Mount Fuji under crisp skies, savor steaming ramen as snowflakes swirl, and soak in onsen hot springs under starry nights.

From Kyoto's crimson gardens to Osaka's neon extravaganza, November paints Japan in unforgettable hues. Let's explore 13 superb things to do in this magical month!

Amazing Places to Visit in Japan

Noboribetsu onsen (hokkaido).

One of the greatest ways to experience Japan is to soak in an onsen (hot spring), which is a centuries-old tradition with strong roots all across the nation. 

The northernmost prefecture of Hokkaido is no exception, so visit Noboribetsu Onsen, which takes its name from the Ainu term "Nupurupetsu," to enjoy steaming hot waters that provide a once-in-a-lifetime experience (dark, cloudy river). 

Noboribetsu Onsen; which is located close to the Jigokudani Valley, an old crater made by a volcanic eruption about 10,000 years ago, aggressively spew 10,000 tonnes of muddy water every day while you stand in awe. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by 節約　次郎 (@setsuyaku_jiro)

These onsen waters contain nine different types of water, including salt/saline springs, sulphuric springs, and radium springs, so you can happily immerse yourself in them! 

The onsen waters will detoxify your skin, and when you leave the onsen, you'll feel completely cleansed.

You can even take a night boat to round off your trip so you can see Jigokudani lit up. 

Website: http://www.noboribetsu-spa.jp/  

Address : Noboribetsuonsencho, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido 059-0551, Japan 

Sado Island (Niigata)

If you enjoy hiking, you might be drawn to the notion of going trekking on Sado Island, an island that is bursting to the seams with natural wonders.

It is located 45 kilometers off the coast of Niigata and offers access to lush forests and azure waters. 

Ishina Natural Cedar Forest is definitely worth seeing because you may see a variety of unusual birds and flora there. 

There are also huge, old cedar trees along this walkway, some of which are hundreds of years old and have been twisted by the weather, giving the area a mysterious feel.

Mount Koya is one of the ancient religious places in Japan, a place that denotes peace and tolerance.

With a number of shrines, temples, and pagodas, this complex was the spiritual abode of Shingon Buddhism.

Shingon Buddhism was a group founded more than a thousand years ago by Kobo Daishi, one of Japan's most important religious figures.

The main temple of this group was Kongobu-Ji, which is located on the top, covered by the forest of Mount Koya.

Besides this, there are also more than 100 other temples around this complex.

Generally, when you visit this kind of place, you have to worry about where to stay at night.

However, this sacred place will rescue you from such worries, as many of those temples offer visitors an overnight stay.

Being one of the significant spots of Buddhist worship, this place represents Japanese traditions, Buddhism, and Shintoism.

So, you can say it is a perfect representation of religious peace in Japan.

Location: Koyasan, 高野山, Koya, Ito District, Wakayama 648-0211, Japan

Nishinomaru Garden & Osaka Castle

One of the beautiful sights in Japan is the Nishinomaru garden.

A garden that you can only find in Japan. Some of the world's most beautiful flowers are dominating here with their magnificent charm, making it a fascinating place for tourists.

You can also enjoy the beauty of some native flowers, including cherry blossoms.

This garden is situated in Osaka and not very far away from the main city.

And not to mention Osaka castle situated near it, which is the most dazzling aspect of this garden.

Both the Osaka castle and the Nishinomaru garden hold historical and cultural significance together.

Therefore, put this place on the bucket list if you want a mixed flavor.

Miyajima Island

Viewing sunrise or sunset on an island is one of the mesmerizing feelings you can ever experience.

And if you are looking for such a place, then Miyajima island is the place where you should head to.

It is the most unexplored and untouched island in Japan, which is covered by mostly forests and tiny villages.

So, there is no chaos or hustle-bustle compared to the other islands of this country.

This Miyajima island is an ideal place for peace-lovers who want to get away from the noisy outer world and listen only to the sounds of nature.

It is a place where deers and humans walk closely side by side along the shores of the sea!

Location: Miyajimacho, Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima 739-0588, Japan

Sagano Bamboo Forest

Just imagine. You are walking along the path with an eye-catching landscape and hearing the sound of the wind blowing through the bamboo!

And to turn this dreamlike feeling into a reality, you can visit Sagano Bamboo Forest in Japan.

This forest is located in Arashiyama, a neighborhood on the western outskirts of Kyoto.

The ministry of the environment in Japan considers this bamboo forest as a soundscape of Japan.

With a peaceful nature spot, the forest provides the visitors with a scenic view and a calming sound of the rattling of bamboos.

This sound is so meditative and calm that it fills every human soul with a feeling of serenity.

An opposite representation of Japan's highly urbanized life, Sagano Bamboo Forest resembles an earthly paradise.

No doubt, you won’t regret visiting this one of the most beautiful natural places in Japan.

Noto Peninsula

You will get to enjoy the most astonishing and uncommon coastal landscapes and pristine countryside panorama in the Noto Peninsula.

It holds some of the beautiful sights in Japan, which is in the northern section of Ishikawa Prefecture.

This place has a number of fishing points, swimming and camping areas.

So, you can enjoy all of these in addition to admiring the breathtaking natural scenery.

The town of Wajima, one of the unusual places in Japan, is its main tourist center.

If you want an amazing place to experience the life of a small Japanese city, this place is a must-see for you.

Location: Soryomachi, Wajima, Ishikawa 928-0006, Japan

Nagoro: The Village Of Dolls

The residents of this Nagoro village left it in search of employment. This village was abandoned for years.

After a few years, Tsukimi Ayano visited the village and made all the dolls in remembrance of every villager.

Today, this place is home to more than three hundred life-size dolls that look exactly like humans.

While strolling through this island, you will also find eye-catching monuments and beautiful lakes as well.

Location: 629番地5 Higashiiyasugeoi, Miyoshi, Tokushima 778-0201, Japan

Kawaguchiko

Lake Kawaguchiko has some of the best views of Kawaguchiko. Its appearance looks gorgeous, especially in cherry blossom or autumn leaf seasons.

You can enjoy the panoramic views by walking or cycling around the lake.

Otherwise, taking a trip on a boat or cable car won't be bad too.

Also, there are many museums and tea houses around this lake to satisfy your thirsty travel mind.

Location: Fujikawaguchiko, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi, Japan

Secret Places in Japan: 15 Hidden Gems

The Blue Pond Or Aoiike

A water body with a heavenly blue color!

Then, the Blue Pond or Aoiike in Hokkaido Prefecture will be worth visiting for you.

Though it's an artificial pond, you will go speechless with its mesmerizing beauty.

The tree stumps that pop out from the surface of the water has added some extra flavor to increase its unworldly appearance.

Want to know why it was created and what's the reason behind its blue color?

As part of an erosion control system, this pond was designed to protect the area from the mudflow that can occur from the nearby mountain.

The distinctive blue color is due to the natural minerals dissolved in the water.

However, if you prefer desert-like feelings instead of water, then consider visiting the next place.

Location: Shirogane, Biei, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido 071-0235, Japan

Sand Dunes Of Tottori

I think the most unique and unusual place in Japan is the sand dunes of Tottori.

These sand dunes are part of the Sanin Kaigan National Park in the Tottori prefecture.

Stretching for 16 km along the coast of the Japan Sea, it is the largest dune in the country.

You might think why I said earlier that it would give you a desert-like feel!

Well, surprisingly, camels are widely available in this area.

So, the combination of sands and camels gives this place a beautiful desert-like atmosphere.

Don't love deserts?

Then, let's pay a visit to the flower kingdom.

Location: 2164-661 Fukubecho Yuyama, Tottori, 689-0105, Japan

Hitachi Seaside Park

If you don't mind losing yourself in the stunning beauty of flowers, Hitachi Seaside Park is the place where you should go.

The diversity of flowers is amazing here with baby blue eyes, cosmos, sunflowers, and Kochia bush.

This park is mainly famous for its blue flower fields, called Nemophilas, which bloom throughout the park in the spring.

Who once sees its marvelous splendor face to face cannot forget that for a lifetime.

After they blossom, they start to fade out, so it is better to go during the golden time from April 29th to May 5th to see millions of nemophila blue.

The rounded shrubs of the park, Kochia, also don’t fall behind to show its ethereal beauty.

It assumes a brilliant crimson color during autumn, creating a fascinating view.

Besides the annual Nemophila Harmony, this seaside park also features 170 varieties of tulips, a million daffodils, and many other flowers with a total of 4.5 million.

Location: Japan, 〒312-0012 Ibaraki, Hitachinaka, Mawatari, 字大沼605-4

We all know that Japan is famous for its vast number of onsens throughout the country.

And this Beppu is known as one of the best places in Japan for onsen. It is very popular among the Japanese.

The hot spring Hells of Beppu is located in the onsen town of Beppu, Oita, Japan.

You can enjoy the hot springs and the force of nature, stay in a fabulous ryokan (Japanese style inns), get buried in the warm and healthy volcanic sand, and much more.

Beppu is waiting for you to provide refreshment and peace after a day-long hectic journey.

Who knows, it might become one of your favorite places in Japan.

Aokigahara Suicide Forest

If you are someone looking for a dark adventure or some thrill, this place might be just right for you.

This exciting forest Aokigahara lies at the foot of Mount Fuji in Japan, which is better known as the Suicide Forest .

A thrilling destination for all travelers, this place holds lots of social dilemmas and significance.

The forest is ill-famed as a suicide spot in Japan, and you can easily trace personal artifacts belonging to people while strolling through the forest.

The forest is said to have a creepy vibe, with rumors of various paranormal activities.

There are a few movies about this forest. If you watched any of them, you already know a lot, I think.

However, the thing you don’t know is this Aokigahara forest is also known as the sea of trees.

Oh! What a relief!

Thanks to the trees that I finally found something good in so many negativities!

Location: Narusawa, Fujikawaguchiko, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi 401-0300, Japan

Okayama & Himeji Castle

If you are interested in walking off-the-beaten-track, I can introduce you to a great place in Japan.

And it is Okayama , one of the nice places to visit in Japan.

You can enjoy the overwhelming beauty of some of the colorful gardens in this modern city.

This city wears a stunning look, especially in Sakura season with the heavenly cherry blossoms.

Therefore, anyone who wants to find peace in the splendid beauty of these flowers without the crowd of Tokyo or Kyoto, this place is worth visiting for him.

Another convenient thing about this place is it is on a bullet train line.

So, it offers an affordable base to explore the whole area.

Other places of interest around this city are the historic Kurashiki, Hiroshima, Naoshima Island, and Himeji Castle.

And not to mention Himeji castle, which is the best-preserved castle in all of the country.

It's a must-visit place, especially in cherry blossom season.

This castle serves as a classic example of Japanese castle architecture.

Another name of this fortress is Shirasagijo which means White Heron Castle, due to its white outer walls.

Location: 68 Honmachi, Himeji, Hyogo 670-0012, Japan

Kiso Valley

Another unique place to visit in Japan is the Kiso Valley.

It is home to the Nakasendo Trail, one of only five Edo-period highways that links Edo (Tokyo) and Kyoto.

Travelers of that period made the long journey on foot. As a result, this valley is bestrewn with historic towns where travelers ate, rested, and slept along the way.

You can observe some of the well-preserved cities while walking through this old highway, between mountains and dense forests.

Wow! Just the thinking of it is giving me a dramatic vibe!

Leaving aside the natural environment and historical construction work, now let’s know about some of the city-centric recreation centers.

Location: Tono, Okuwa, Kiso District, Nagano 399-5501, Japan

Japanese Cat Cafes

Many of the unique places in the world are Japanese cat cafes.

Japan takes honor and delight in presenting its exceptional and unique cat cafes.

You will find a few cat cafes while strolling through the capital city, Tokyo. The infrastructure and atmosphere in the cat cafes are exceptionally well and unique.

Want to know the reason behind introducing these cat cafes?

It is to provide people a way to pet animals, especially cats. It encourages people to get some time out of their busy schedules and spend time with these cute and fun creatures.

You can tell them your stories, pet them, or sometimes feed them.

Therefore, you will feel cherished and relaxed at the same time.

Pokemon Centre

Pika pika!!

Still miss Pokemon or this sound of Pikachu?

Well, if you do, then this place will fill your heart and soul with happiness. Though it is unreal for this place to exist on earth, still, it does.

There is a pokemon center situated in Japan for all the pokemon fans.

In fact, you will find several stores in different cities throughout the country.

Great pokemon goodies, stuff toys, hampers, games, and lots more can be found here.

So the next time when you head to Japan, don't forget to visit this fun-filled place.

This recommendation is especially for the kids and grownups who are crazy fans of Pokemon.

 Jigokudani Monkey Park

Located in the Nagano Prefecture, you'll find the Jigokudani Monkey Park in Joshinetsu Kogen National park. Misty, cold forests surround the park with an breathtaking view.

Since Jigokudani park is at a higher altitude and witnesses heavy rainfall because of which tourists usually don't add it to their itinerary. Regardless, the highlight of this park is the Japanese Macaques that you'll enjoy watching!

Jigokudani monkey park is away from the city making it a great escape from the hustle butle of Japan.

Location: 6845 Hirao, Yamanochi, Shimotakai District, Nagano 381-0401, Japan

Well, all this time, you have had a vast idea about some unique places to visit in Japan.

Each place has a different essence of its culture and traditions.

Whether it is the bamboo forest or the modern Pokemon Center, ea

More articles

Japan truly.

The Online Japanese Store. Feels like shopping in Japan!

Product Review

Contact information.

[email protected]

Quick links

123 John Doe Street Your Town, YT 12345

Store Hours Sun: Closed Mon-Fri: 9:00 - 17:00 Sat: 10:00 - 13:00

What to expect at pickup

Closing at 5pm

Closing at 1pm

The 10 most wonderful places to visit in Japan

Mar 28, 2024 • 6 min read

From buzzing cities to serene forest walks, these are our favorite places to visit in Japan © Taiyou Nomachi / Getty Images

Japan offers up a real feast for travelers, with mountainside onsen (hot spring) villages, beach-lined islands and buzzing megacities all on the menu.

You could arguably spend a lifetime sampling the country’s delights, but some towns and sights are staples – core ingredients to any great Japan trip. Here’s our pick of the 10 best places to visit in Japan .

Best for contemporary culture

Tokyo is a city forever reaching into the future, pushing the boundaries of what's possible on densely populated, earthquake-prone land, and building ever taller, sleeker structures.

It's Japan's top spot for contemporary art and architecture, pop culture, shopping, drinking and entertainment (and a tie with Kyoto for dining). But more than any other sight, it's the city itself that enchants visitors.

It's a sprawling, organic thing, stretching as far as the eye can see. Constantly changing with a diverse collection of neighborhoods , no two experiences of Tokyo are ever the same.

Planning tip: Tickets for sumo, kabuki and Giants baseball games usually go on sale one to two months in advance. The Imperial Palace and Ghibli Museum are other popular attractions that require prior planning.

Best for traditional experiences

Kyoto , Japan's imperial capital for a thousand years, is home to more than a thousand temples. Among them are the monumental, like Kinkaku-ji (an exquisite pavilion sheathed entirely in gold leaf), and the meditative, like Ryōan-ji , with its stark Zen rock garden.

And temples are only the beginning. There's the culture of tea, which you can appreciate at one of the city's many elegant teahouses; the art of the geisha, those iconic performers of traditional music and dance; and also a rich food culture, including kaiseki (Japanese haute cuisine).

3. Naoshima

Best for architecture

Naoshima is one of Japan's great success stories: once a rural island on the verge of becoming a ghost town, it's now a world-class center for contemporary art.

Many of Japan's most lauded architects have contributed structures, including museums, a boutique hotel and even a bathhouse – all designed to enhance the island's natural beauty and complement its existing settlements.

The resulting blend of avant-garde and rural Japan is captivating. It has also inspired some Japanese to pursue a slower life outside the big cities, relocating to Naoshima to open cafes and inns.

Planning tip: Try to plan your visit during one of the three exhibitions of the  Setouchi Triennale festival, which happens during the spring, summer and fall every three years – the most recent was in 2022. Naoshima hosts various art, drama, music and dance events that make this festival really special.

Best for views and pilgrimages

Even from a distance,  Mt Fuji will take your breath away. Close up, the perfectly symmetrical cone of Japan's highest peak is nothing short of incredible. Dawn from the summit? Pure magic.

Fuji-san is among Japan's most revered and timeless attractions. Hundreds of thousands of people climb it every year, continuing a centuries-old tradition of pilgrimages up the sacred volcano.

Those who'd rather search for picture-perfect views from the less-daunting peaks nearby will be following in the steps of Japan's most famous painters and poets.

Planning tip: The best time to climb Mt Fuji is during its official season, from July 1 through mid-September, which avoids the rainy season and snowfall. Always check for typhoon warnings before hiking in Japan.

5. Hiroshima

Best for introspection

Hiroshima today is a forward-thinking city with attractive, leafy boulevards. It's not until you visit the Peace Memorial Museum that the true extent of human tragedy wreaked by the atomic bomb becomes vividly clear.

A visit here is a heartbreaking, important history lesson. The  park around the museum , much of which was designed by Japan's great modernist architect Tange Kenzō, offers many opportunities for reflection.

But the city's spirit of determination – as well as its food – will ensure that you'll have good memories to take with you when you leave.

6. Yakushima

Best for forest bathing

Yakushima, a small island off the coast of southern Kyūshū , is often described as magical and enchanting – otherworldly even. It's a place where words fail and clichés step in.

Home to some of Japan's last primeval forests, you'll find the yakusugi , an ancient cedar native to the island whose giant roots seem to form alien tentacles.

Hiking trails underneath them cover craggy terrain, often fuzzy with moss. The landscape here is believed to have inspired the iconic Studio Ghibli animated film,  Princess Mononoke .

Detour: When you're not hiking, stop by the  Yakusugi Museum to learn more about the importance of yakusugi  to the islanders of Yakushima. An English audio guide is available.

7. Koya-san

Best for exploring temples

Riding the funicular up to the sacred Buddhist monastic complex of Kōya-san feels, appropriately, like ascending to another world.

There are over a hundred temples here, the highlight of which is Oku-no-in , where paths weave their way among towering cryptomeria trees and time-worn stone stupas covered in moss and lichen.

Other temples offer a different experience: the chance to spend the night, dine on traditional vegetarian Buddhist cuisine and wake up early for morning meditation with the resident monks.

Planning tip: Though Japanese temples and shrines do not have established dress codes, visitors are expected to stay relatively quiet in these sacred spaces.

8. Okinawa and the Southwest Islands

Best for beaches

Okinawa and the Southwest Islands offer a totally different experience from the rest of Japan. This semi-tropical archipelago forms an arch between Kyūshū and Taiwan .

Until the islands were annexed by Japan in the 19th century, they formed their own kingdom – the Ryūkyū Empire – and the cultural differences are apparent in everything from the architecture to the food.

This is where you'll find Japan's best beaches, like those on the Yaeyama Islands  and the Kerama Islands, with sugar-white sand fringed with palms and turquoise waters. Bask in the sun, or snorkel and scuba dive.

Best for street food and nightlife

Tokyo doesn't nab all the superlatives when it comes to urban experiences. Osaka , Japan's third-largest city, is tops for street food: don't miss its signature dish, takoyaki (grilled octopus dumplings).

It also has the most dramatic of nightscapes: a dazzling display of LED lights, animated signage and flashing video screens along the canalside strip Dōtombori .

The city, Japan's oldest merchant center, has a pace, spirit and zest for life all of its own; its unofficial slogan is kuidaore (eat until you drop).

Planning tip: In addition to nightly accommodation fees, Osaka hotels will typically charge an accommodation tax that varies depending on the standard nightly rate.

10. Kamikōchi

Best for mountain hikes

One of Japan's most stunning natural vistas, Kamikōchi is a highland river valley enveloped by the soaring peaks of the Northern Japan Alps .

Easy day hikes are possible along the Azusa-gawa, following the pristine river through tranquil forests of willow, larch and elm.

The birthplace of Japanese alpinism, Kamikōchi is also the gateway for more challenging treks up some of the country's tallest mountains, such as Yari-ga-take (3180m/10,433ft). Private cars are banned from Kamikōchi, which lessens the impact of the crowds.

This article was first published Apr 29, 2021 and updated Mar 28, 2024.

Explore related stories

Destination Practicalities

Jun 12, 2024 • 8 min read

Get to know Osaka, Japan's friendliest city, with this first-timer's guide.

May 23, 2024 • 12 min read

May 3, 2024 • 14 min read

May 1, 2024 • 9 min read

Apr 14, 2024 • 6 min read

Apr 3, 2024 • 17 min read

Mar 31, 2024 • 7 min read

Mar 28, 2024 • 7 min read

Mar 26, 2024 • 8 min read

The Ultimate Japan Bucket List: 100 Things to do in Japan

Every country has its own list of things that make it unique and Japan is no exception. In my opinion, it is one of the most distinctive and fascinating countries in the world, though I may be a little biased! Whether you agree or not, there’s no denying that Japan is as alluring as it is special. A quick skim of this list alone displays such a rich variety of activities and experiences that it is sure to excite and inspire you to book your next trip to Japan!

Whether you are a first-time visitor or a frequent visitor, I hope this post inspires you to discover all the wonderful treasures Japan has to offer. I’ve left a little map of Japan next to all the experiences I have done myself, so if you’d like more info about it, make sure to let me know in the comments below!

So let’s get into this jumbo Japan bucket list and find out what 100 activities I think you should do while in Japan!

• Visit the happiest place on earth at Tokyo Disneyland 🇯🇵
• Visit the iconic Tokyo Tower 🇯🇵
• Be delighted with kawaii goods and delicious sweets at Harajuku 🇯🇵
• Stock up on anime figurines, vintage video games and licensed merchandise at Akihabara 🇯🇵
• Be treated like a master/mistress at a Maid Café such as Maidreamin 🇯🇵
• Dine at the spectacular Robot Restaurant at Kabukicho
• See pedestrians cross one of the busiest intersections in the world at Shibuya crossing 🇯🇵
• Escape the city and step into stunning green forests at Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park 🇯🇵
• Beat the crowds and grab a ticket to the famous Studio Ghibli Museum 🇯🇵
• Explore the streets of Kabukicho, Tokyo’s Red Light District 🇯🇵

Check out my blog post for more things to do in Tokyo .

• Visit the most iconic shrine in Japan, Fushimi Inari Taisha 🇯🇵
• Walk down the famous bamboo-lined path at Arashiyama Bamboo Grove 🇯🇵
• Stand in the presence of a completely golden temple at Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion) 🇯🇵
• Step into the past, meet a geisha and engage with traditional Japan in Gion 🇯🇵

Check out my blog post for more things to do in Kyoto .

• Eat the best street food in Japan at Dotonbori 🇯🇵
• Visit the most iconic castle in Japan, Osaka Castle 🇯🇵
• Step into the world of Harry Potter, Despicable Me and more at Universal Studios Japan 🇯🇵

Check out my blog post for more things to do in Osaka .

• Learn of the destruction of the world’s first atomic bomb at Hiroshima Peace Memorial museum
• Witness the destruction of WWII at the Atomic Bomb Dome and pray for peace at the Peace Memorial Park
• View the famous torii gate in the ocean at Itsukushima Shrine
• Island hop and beach hop in Japan’s sub-tropical prefecture, Okinawa 🇯🇵
• See stunning coral, sea turtles, beautiful fish and more while snorkelling and scuba diving in Okinawa 🇯🇵
• Take a ride from a water buffalo on Ishigaki Island
• See Darth Vader, Pikachu, Totoro and more carved in snow and ice at the Sapporo Snow Festival 🇯🇵
• Eat fresh crab from the icy stalls at Nijo Market 🇯🇵

Check out my blog post for more things to do in Hokkaido .

Other Destinations

• See Himeji Castle, one of the most beautiful castles in Japan 🇯🇵
• Climb Mount Fuji, the tallest mountain in Japan
• Run around with the Japanese macaques at Jigokudani Monkey Park 🇯🇵
• Stay the night at a temple alongside Buddhist Monks in Koyasan 🇯🇵
• Visit the oldest, largest and most sacred cemetery in Japan, Okunoin Cemetary 🇯🇵
• Witness the stunning illuminated floats of the Aomori Nebuta Festival
• Ride a pirate ship around Lake Ashi in Hakone 🇯🇵
• Feed the many deer at Nara Park 🇯🇵
• Visit the big buddha at Todai-ji Temple 🇯🇵
• Contemplate modern art at Naoshima art island 🇯🇵
• Trek the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route and visit the Three Grand Shrines of Kumano; Kumano Hongū Taisha, Kumano Nachi Taisha and Kumano Hayatama Taisha
• Take a trip to Aoshima island, where cats outnumber humans six to one
• Take a stroll through the vibrant flower fields in Furano
• Explore one of the most authentic castles left in Japan, Matsumoto Castle 🇯🇵
• Soak in the healing waters of Kusatsu Onsen, one of the best onsens in Japan
• Walk along the scenic streets of Ginzan onsen, marveling at the many gorgeous ryokan that line the river
• Visit the upcoming Studio Ghibli theme park (2022) at the Expo 2005 Aichi Commemorative Park 🇯🇵
• Spend the day enjoying thrilling rollercoasters, peaceful baths and an outdoor shopping centre at Nagashima Spaland 🇯🇵
• Ride your bike along the Shimanami kaido, a route along the six islands connecting Chugoku to Shikoku 🇯🇵
• Visit the seven Hells of Beppu, hot springs so hot they are for viewing only
• Attend a hanami festival to see Japan’s iconic cherry blossoms in full bloom 🇯🇵
• View the stunning red, orange and yellow autumn leaves called koyo
• Walk amongst the incredible winter illuminations displayed all over Japan in December 🇯🇵
• Snowboard in some of the best powder snow in the world 🇯🇵

Food and Drink

• Dine in one of Japan’s teeny izakaya’s
• Compare Osaka style and Hiroshima style okonomiyaki 🇯🇵
• Try fugu, or blowfish, one of the most dangerous foods in the world
• Attend a sake tasting event to savour Japan’s signature alcoholic beverage
• Grab a quick, cheap dinner from the closest conbini (convenience store) 🇯🇵
• Dine at an Italian restaurant and experience one of the best Italian meals you will ever try 🇯🇵
• Try every different kind of ramen, including shio (salt), shoyu (soy sauce), miso and tonkotsu (pork) 🇯🇵
• Eat authentic sushi and try as many kinds of Japanese fish as you can 🇯🇵
• Attend a traditional Japanese cooking class to learn how to cook one of their signature dishes
• Try matcha, Japan’s traditional green tea 🇯🇵
• Feast on a traditional kaiseki meal
• Make your own cup noodles at the Cup Noodles Museum
• Try as many Michelin starred restaurants as you can (there are many!)
• Treat yourself with Japan’s famous fluffy cheesecake 🇯🇵
• Pick a crepe from the many options available at Japan’s crepe stores 🇯🇵
• Warm up with Japan’s delicious winter cuisine, oden 🇯🇵
• Try as many kinds of donburi as you can 🇯🇵
• Snack on yummy rice balls called onigiri 🇯🇵
• Eat a new soft serve flavour at every destination 🇯🇵
• Go fruit picking in Japan’s many fruit farms across the country 🇯🇵
• Visit Fukuoka’s ramen stadium, a ramen theme park located on the top floor of a department store 🇯🇵
• Try Hokkaido’s winter specialty, soup curry 🇯🇵

Historical/Cultural

• Attend a traditional tea ceremony 🇯🇵
• Witness a stunning geisha dance 🇯🇵
• Laugh until your sides hurt at a kabuki performance
• View a dramatic performance of Noh theatre
• See a traditional Japanese puppet performance at a bunraku theatre
• Watch a thrilling sumo match
• Fight like a ninja with an authentic ninja experience
• Learn of the power of the samurai with an authentic samurai experience
• Dress like a geisha and walk the streets of Japan 🇯🇵

Modern Experiences

• Let loose and sing your heart out at Karaoke 🇯🇵
• Pet all the kitties at a cat café 🇯🇵
• Snuggle up to a super cute shiba puppy at a Shiba cafe 🇯🇵
• Take a ride on Japan’s famous shinkansen (bullet trains) 🇯🇵
• Try pachinko, the only way to “legally” gamble in Japan
• Take a kawaii selfie at a purikura booth 🇯🇵
• Experience the thrilling atmosphere at a Japanese baseball game
• Grab a drink from one of Japan’s many vending machines 🇯🇵

• Shop till you drop at a shotengai (Japanese shopping street) 🇯🇵
• Purchase all the omiyage (food souvenirs) your loved ones could eve wish for 🇯🇵
• Explore one of Japan’s ginormous shopping malls such as Aeon Mall, Shibuya 109, HepFive, Ario, Canal City Hakata and Youme Town 🇯🇵
• Buy cheap souvenirs and a whole lot of other stuff at Don Quijote 🇯🇵
• Grab souvenirs at a great bargain at a ¥100 store such as Daiso 🇯🇵

Accommodation

• Relax at a traditional ryokan 🇯🇵
• Experience a Japanese capsule hotel 🇯🇵
• Stay a few hours at a love hotel
• Squeeze into teeny rooms at a business hotel 🇯🇵
• Visit one of Japan’s many Pokémon Centres 🇯🇵
• Dine at a themed café 🇯🇵
• Win prizes, dance like crazy and enjoy an insane amount of video games at an arcade 🇯🇵

What is on your Japan bucket list? Have you done any of the things I’ve mentioned? Make sure you let me know in the comments below!

Pin post for later:.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

HOME       BLOG        ADVENTURES       ABOUT ME

© Copyright Lovely Japan 2020. All Rights Reserved

Privacy Policy | Cookie Policy | Data Protection Policy Terms and Conditions

Start typing and press Enter to search

Essential Japanese Phrases While Travelling in Japan

Privacy Overview

Travelling is ultimately a tool for growth. If you want to venture further, click this banner and take the leap 😉

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Asia » Japan » 15 Beautiful Places in Japan (MUST-SEE in 2024)

15 Beautiful Places in Japan (MUST-SEE in 2024)

Japan is one of the most unique countries in the world. Its distinctiveness and variety encapsulate all types of beauty.

With majestic temples, natural beauty and historic castles, Japan’s diverse scenery is far from mediocre. From pretty pink cherry blossoms and iconic volcanoes all the way to Tokyo’s epic and futuristic aesthetic, you won’t find it challenging to find beautiful places in Japan.

Although Japan is well-known for its busy cities and futuristic technology, many natural destinations located here remain unaffected by modern society. Plus, the respectful atmosphere of Japan with its clean streets and welcoming locals is a genuine breath of fresh air. 

Japan is not the cheapest place to travel. But I promise the beauty of this place more than makes up for it. To avoid overspending, making sure you know where you want to visit in Japan is important.

That’s why I’ve put together this list of my top 15 beautiful locations in Japan so you can just get on with it! This list includes a balance of all things Japan, ensuring there is something EVERYONE will find beautiful. After all, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, right? 😉

Ok enough chat. Here are the most magical locations to include in your Japan itinerary.

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

1. Shirogane Blue Pond

2. mount fuji, 3. kinkakuji temple, 4. shirakawa-go, 5. himeji castle, hyogo prefecture, 6. zao snow monsters, 7. beaches of ishigaki, 8. oirase gorge, 9. digital art forest, kyushu, 10. shiretoko national park, 11. kabira bay, 12. kamikochi, 13. nachi falls, 14. unkai terrace, 15. shibuya crossing, how to see beautiful places in japan, faqs about beautiful places in japan, final thoughts on beautiful places in japan.

Located in Biei town in Hokkaido is the scenic Shirogane Blue Pond. You should know that this pond was made by accident. The construction of an artificial dam and the chemical composition (colloidal aluminium oxide to be exact for the nerds) that flows from the water in the Shirogane hot spring produced a pond with an incredible teal blue colour.

This is a stunning sight and everyone backpacking in Japan NEEDS to see this. It is to be noted though, that this is only a seeing activity… DO NOT attempt to swim in this blue hole as tempting as it may look, the waters are toxic!

Now, despite diverse weather conditions, the pond remains the same colour throughout the entire year and tourists often find this location truly unbelievable. It is the type of destination that you have to see in person to really appreciate it.

Although this area is great at any time of the year, it is particularly beautiful in the autumn as the orange foliage creates a gorgeous backdrop that contrasts against the blue pond.

Do You Want to Travel FOREVER??

Pop your email in below to get a FREE copy of ‘How to Travel the World on $10 a Day!’.

Considered to be Japan’s most recognisable symbol, Mount Fuji is simply a must-visit. A stratovolcano situated 3667 metres above sea level and 100km southwest of Tokyo, Mount Fuji is not just one of the most beautiful places in Japan, it’s arguably one of the best sights in the world!

For the hardcore lot, you can hike the mountain. However, to get to the top it would take multiple days. Some travellers chose to do this and stay in Mount Fuji overnight at the hotels that are embedded within the mountainside. 

Regardless of your hiking abilities, Mount Fuji is for everyone. The views here are truly incredible. Mount Fuji can be seen in various areas of Japan but taking the trail towards the mountains is such an incredible experience.

Most people just admire the sight from afar – it makes for some truly stunning photos too. If you can afford it, a full Mount Fuji day trip is an unforgettable experience that will take you to some awesome viewing points.

The mountain is surrounded by five lakes, with Lake Kawaguchiko standing out as a beloved and easily accessible gem. You’ll have the best time biking around the lake while enjoying the views and exploring the old traditional towns near the lake. Don’t miss this Lake Kawaguchiko day trip itinerary for an epic experience!

Known as the “Golden Temple”, the Kinkakuji Temple is a zen Buddhist temple in the heart of Kyoto. This temple is easily one of the most beautiful places in Japan as the top two floors of the building are covered in glittering gold leaf. 

It’s a great activity for people trying to stick to a budget in Japan . The entry fee for adults is pretty cheap at 400 Yuen or nearly $3 (300 Yen for kids).

After viewing the temple, travellers spend time in the stunning temple gardens. In the gardens, you can discover the Ammintaku Pond and statues where it is thought that if you throw coins at them, you will be granted good luck. There is also a souvenir shop and a tea garden that serves matcha, tea and sweets. 

This temple is a popular attraction amongst tourists and you’ll see many visitors taking photos here. To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon. 

Residing in Gifu prefecture is Shirakawa-go, a traditional Japanese village left completely untouched by modern architecture. Shirakawa-go is known as the Japanese village time forgot.

Because of this, the three villages in this area were granted UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 1995. As you can imagine, there are some spectacular Japanese Airbnbs to stay in.

In the village, discover gassho-zukuri-style farmhouses that have classic triangular thatched roofs that are unlike any other village you have seen. Whilst many of the buildings have been converted into restaurants that serve traditional Japanese-style cuisine, this scenic village is still 100% worth the visit.  

The atmosphere here is extremely peaceful and the locals are welcoming. Just remember that people still live in this area; try not to take photos or enter their homes without permission to do so. Also, if you’re visiting in the winter, keep in mind that this area is prone to heavy snowfall. 

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Himeji Castle has withstood many wars and natural disasters and is arguably the most famous castle in Japan. This castle was built in the 17th century and continues to attract tourists to this day. 

To get the most out of the castle, you can book an English-speaking tour. One key safety tip for visiting is to use non-slip socks as you have to enter the castle without shoes and it can be slippery. It takes between 1.5-4 hours to properly get a look around the place so it makes a great half-day or day trip for any type of traveller.

After exploring the castle, there are wonderful gardens to unwind in. Due to its popularity, there is an admission fee to enter the castle and you should expect queues. Around 1.5 million guests visit each year, so get there early to avoid the crowds (and get the best photos with no tourists in).

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

This is arguably one of the most unique places to visit in Japan. Step right into a fairytale and be amazed by the unusual phenomenon of the Zao Snow Monsters in Zao. 

Ideal for a winter vacation, Zao is filled with some of Japan’s best ski resorts and endless amounts of scenic beauty. The monsters can be found near the top of the mountains, so you will need to hike or ski there to get the best views.

The Zao Snow Monsters are essentially trees covered in snow that have been warped by the wind. This formation creates trees that look like monsters and various characters, which makes for the perfect viral photo opportunity.

If you’re in Japan during January and are into Japanese festivals (because who isn’t), you can even participate in the Zao Snow Monsters festival! It’s a wonderful sight as fireworks are set off into the clear sky. 

Whether you’re the type who wants to unwind or the type looking for unique experiences, the beaches of Ishigaki should undoubtedly be included in your trip planning.

Most people don’t think of bringing their beach gear when packing for a holiday in Japan . But trust me on this one, these beaches are stunning! Here you will find white sandy beaches and some of the clearest blue water I’ve ever seen. The water is actually so clear that you can easily see the fish swimming out in the ocean from the shore! (Well, at least I did). 

There are many beaches here but my personal favourite was Sukuji Beach. Other well know beaches worth a visit include (but are not limited to) Kabira Bay, Yonehara Beach and Akashi Beach.

Choose to soak up the sun on these gorgeous beaches or book a glass-bottom boat tour to discover the abundance of awesome sea creatures here.

If you’re looking for a hiking trail, there isn’t another quite like the Oirase Gorge. Here you will be grounded within nature whilst getting a healthy dose of feel-good endorphins from walking the trail.

The Oirase Stream is surrounded by vibrant red and orange trees and moss-covered rocks. There is also a selection of waterfalls littered throughout this area which only makes this location even better.

I would recommend this activity to absolutely everyone visiting Japan and I will be extremely angry at you if you don’t go (I’m joking). But seriously, this hike is unforgettable and will be good for your body and mind.

It will also be extremely good for your camera roll: it’s a great place to bring a good travel camera . This has been often described as one of the most picturesque places in Japan.

Whilst the scenery gets better the further you go, the entire hike averages around three to four hours. However, if you can’t complete the entire 14km long trail, there are bus stops along the way with buses that will take you to different hotspots along the trail. 

Here at The Broke Backpacker , we love freedom! And there’s no freedom as sweet (and CHEAP) as camping around the world.

We’ve been camping on our adventures for over 10 years, so take it from us: the MSR HUBBA HUBBA is the best damn tent for adventuring…

The digital art forest in Fukuoka, Kyushu by teamLAB is an unreplicated experience. If you find yourself in town, you should definitely add this to your Fukuoka Itinerary.

During the day, you can discover historical landmarks such as the cave of 500 stone arhats. But, during the evening is when this area really thrives. As soon as nightfall hits, the forest is lit up with lights and all the trees and rocks transform into pieces of digital artwork. It is truly a sight to behold.

Some of the featured favourites include the Azalea Valley, where the colours of the bushes change as you approach them and the “Ever Blossoming Life Rock” exhibit where a simple boulder becomes a canvas for unbelievable artwork. 

This is a unique form of evening entertainment that is definitely worth stopping by.

When searching for the most beautiful place in Japan , Shiretoko National Park should seriously be considered. Located on the eastmost part of mainland Hokkaido, this national park is in one of the most remote areas of Japan. To access the park, you will have to walk or take a boat as no cars are allowed leading up to this area. 

If you’re anything like me (a national park fanatic who likes to be out in the sticks and away from people) or even if you just love the outdoors and all its natural beauty, you HAVE to go to Shiretoko National Park.

Whilst in the park, you’ll find a completely unspoiled piece of nature. You’ll also get the opportunity to spot wildlife such as brown bears, foxes and deer. 

Due to being in such a remote location, it is advised that you visit the park with a friend as it is unlikely you will get phone service whilst you are here. 

Kabira Bay is located on Ishigaki Island and is home to a spectacular green ocean and an immaculate sandy beach. 

Visitors can relax and soak in the views of the small green islands. This area is popular amongst tourists, so visit early in the morning to avoid large crowds.

Kamikochi is a mountain resort in northern Japan and is an idyllic escape from the busy city centre. 

During the summer and spring, a cool breeze flows through this area. During the colder months, the mountains and forestry get covered in snow which creates a tranquil winter wonderland.

Get 15% OFF when you book through our link — and support the site you love so dearly 😉

Booking.com is quickly becoming our go-to for accommodation. From cheap hostels to stylish homestays and nice hotels, they’ve got it all!

Sitting right by the stunning Pagoda of Seigantoji Temple is Nachi Falls. It’s the longest waterfall in Japan and one of the world’s most striking waterfalls .

Take a scenic hike to the 133-metre-long waterfall and embed yourself in nature. The ambience here is incredibly blissful and allows you to reconnect with the earth and Japan’s extensive history.

Unkai Terrace is in Hokkaido. To give you some context of this location, the word “Unkai” translates to the “sea of clouds”.

Here, you’ll find a terrace located at 1088 metres above sea level creating an ethereal view of looking down on the clouds. Be warned it’s only open May-October.

Shibuya Crossing is in my top 10 places to visit in Japan . Anyone backpacking through Tokyo has to see this.

Shibuya Crossing is one of the busiest crossings in the world. Approximately 1,000 people cross the street with every blue light. There’s SO much photography/videography potential here guys.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Japan’s transportation is very efficient. Public transport is rarely late and the process is an organised system. 

The train is the most popular form of transport for all areas. There are also bullet trains that will take you through the countryside as well as the cities.

Remember to access the trains, you will likely need to apply for a Japan Rail Pass before your trip. These passes cost approximately £192/$238 for seven days.

It is essential that you keep this on you at all times. It’s almost impossible to replace whilst in Japan.

Buses and taxis are also available and just as efficient. The taxi services are extremely friendly with most cars having doors that automatically open as the driver arrives. The prices for these forms of transport are determined by the distance you would like to travel. 

I highly recommend checking out some Japan travel tips so that you get the most out of your experience while keeping your budget in check.

Below are some FAQs about Japan’s beautiful places.

What is the most beautiful place in Japan for nature?

Mount Fuji is my favourite natural feature of Japan. But if you are looking to escape the crowds and immerse yourself, Oirase Gorge or Shirotoko National Park are good options.

Where’s the most beautiful place in Japan to see cherry blossoms?

For me, it’s Himeji Castle. There are actually a ton of places you can see some seriously beautiful cherry blossoms, even in the cities, so don’t stress. One of the most popular places in Tokyo is Ueno Park.

What is the most beautiful countryside in Japan?

Kamikochi gets my vote. This place is the ideal location to zen out and get a break from city life. Other great places to relax in the ‘Inaka’ include remote villages, just like Shirakawa-go.

Get Insured Whilst in Japan

Let’s face it. ALL travel is unpredictable. Japan is a wondrous (and wild) place, so make sure you have a good travel insurance against the weird and wonderful thing that is…. the unknown.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

When people talk about Japan, it sounds kinda mystical. Images of pink trees, kind people, and highly organised cities spring to mind.

As well as that all being true, nature and society are so gorgeously structured, it makes it one of the most extraordinary places in the world to visit. This list of the most beautiful places in Japan is STUFFED with things that you should seriously consider adding to your itinerary.

Whilst visiting a Japanese temple is an essential part of enjoying Japan, the Shirogane Blue Pond is also an unbelievable must-see attraction. Not forgetting the Digital Art Forest and Shibuya Crossing for a modern take on beauty.

But for me, no Japan trip is complete without marvelling at Mount Fuji. It’s simply so beautiful and iconic, Japan wouldn’t be the same without it.

Try not to rush yourself in Japan: taking a few extra moments to appreciate what’s around you will go far. These stunning sights mark your memories. It’s really something money can’t buy.

• Check out the best hostels in Tokyo to kickstart your adventure.
• Know where to stay in Kyoto  BEFORE you get there… trust me on this one.
• With the best sim card for Japan  you can stay connected, always.
• Experience the very best of Japan at one of Japan’s best festivals .
• Explore some of the best national parks in Japan to reconnect with nature.
• Let’s get you ready for your next adventure with our backpacking South Korea guide .

Share or save this post

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Shopping & Style
• Coca-Cola Foodmarks
• Restaurants & Cafes
• Music & Nightlife
• Neighborhoods
• Los Angeles

24 of the most beautiful places you should visit in Japan

Aside from culture and tradition, Japan also offers some of the world's most spectacular landscapes. Here's your Japan bucket list

It’s no secret that Japan has a stunning amount of beauty. From the lavender fields of Furano in Hokkaido down to the crystal clear beaches of Okinawa , this small country is filled with gorgeous nature , contemporary museums , mountainside temples and of course, those pretty springtime  cherry blossoms  and colourful autumn leaves .

With so much to see, it's impossible to do Japan justice with just one visit. This explains why people miss Japan  more than any other country in the world. So this extraordinary island archipelago definitely calls for repeats visits – how else are you going to see all these 24 beautiful sight in Japan?

Recommended: The most beautiful festivals in Japan  

Kiyotsu Gorge and the Tunnel of Light, Niigata prefecture

Niigata prefecture’s Kiyotsu Gorge is a massive natural marvel with volcanic columns, called columnar jointing, overlooking a dramatic river view. After the walking trails were deemed unsafe and closed to the public in 1988, Ma Yansong and the MAD Architects team built the Tunnel of Light , a 750m-long tunnel leading out to the gorge, so visitors can safely view its panoramic beauty. 

Kamikochi, Nagano

A lush green plateau on the Nagano prefecture side of the Northern Japanese Alps, Kamikochi offers some of Japan’s most spectacular mountain scenery with minimal hiking effort. Most visitors just hover around Kappabashi (Kappa Bridge) and for good reason. For one, the bus stop is just nearby. But more importantly, here you get to take in the grand view: a wooded riverbank surrounded by a fortress of mountains, which in autumn blushes in shades of yellow, orange and red.

Beat the crowd by starting at the quiet Taisho Pond, whose pristine surface in the early morning mirrors its gorgeous surroundings. From here, it’s an easy hour-long hike through marshlands to Kappabashi, where you can break for a meal at one of several cafés and restaurants. For day trippers, you can then go further into the forest; another 90 minutes’ walk will take you to the atmospheric Myojin Pond.

Oirase Gorge, Aomori

This picturesque gorge in the mountains of Aomori is one of Japan’s top autumn destinations. The 9km-long trail from Ishigeo to Nenokuchi at the mouth of Lake Towada is breathtaking – not that it’s a strenuous hike but because of the gorgeous scenery all along the way. The gushing Oirase Stream snakes through a blazing red and orange forest studded with moss-covered boulders, with multiple waterfalls feeding into the running water. It’s Japanese autumn at its best.

Set aside three hours for a one-way trek, and you can hop on a sightseeing ferry at the end of the trail at Nenokuchi for more autumn foliage along Lake Towada. Though you’d need some good stamina, don’t worry if you can’t do the entire nine kilometres. There are bus stops on the road running alongside the stream, where you can catch a ride to any point on the trail. 

Kinkakuji Temple, Kyoto

Otherwise known as the Golden Temple, Kinkakuji is a Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold, a miraculous and shiny site in the middle of traditional Kyoto. In fact, the temple is so beautiful that a young monk attempted to burn it down in 1950, inspiring Yukio Mishima’s famous novel ‘The Temple of the Golden Pavilion’. First, you walk along a path to see the temple and its reflection before you eventually see it close up, so be prepared for multiple photo ops. Head there in the early morning or late afternoon for smaller crowds and less glinting from the gold leaf.

Mt Fuji, Yamanashi

Japan’s crown jewel and arguably the most beautiful place in the country, Mt Fuji is a must for any visitor. There are plenty of places to see the grand mountain, but the views from Arakurayama Sengen Park, which boasts the majestic Chureito Pagoda, and from Lake Kawaguchi best capture its beauty.

Lake Kawaguchi, one of the Fuji Five Lakes, has glorious views of Mt Fuji, especially in winter when the sky is mostly clear and you can see the volcano’s reflection in the water. Having said that, the near-perfect symmetry of Mt Fuji is a spectacular sight year-round, regardless of where you see it from.

Shirakawa-go, Gifu prefecture

Deep in Gifu prefecture lies Shirakawa-go, a perfectly preserved Japanese village and Unesco World Heritage Site, filled with traditional gassho-zukuri style farmhouses known for their thatched, triangular roofs that resemble praying hands. Now, most of the farmhouses have been converted into museums, restaurants and even hotels, but visitors can still explore the inside of the houses to admire the idiosyncratic architecture, held together by wooden beams. The houses are especially picturesque in winter – all covered in snow, they look like gingerbread houses. 

Motonosumi Shrine, Yamaguchi

Tunnels of vermilion torii gates are a common sight in Japan. There’s Fushimi Inari in Kyoto and Nezu Shrine in Tokyo, but Motonosumi Shrine in the seaside town of Nagato is the most picturesque. A relatively new shrine, built in 1955, it consists of 123 torii gates that lead down dramatic cliffs, with spectacular ocean views to boot. Unlike most shrines where you just toss a coin into an offering box, here you’ll have to shoot your donation into a box at the top of the final torii gate, which stands six metres tall. If you make it, your wish might just come true.

Narai, Nagano

Along the historic Nakasendo, the mountainous route which connected old Edo (present-day Tokyo) with Kyoto, is Narai, a post town in the picturesque Kiso Valley. This is one of the best places to catch a glimpse of Edo-period (1603-1868) life, as most of this then-prosperous town is so well-preserved that its wooden buildings stretch for a 1km block. Many of the heritage houses have been adapted into restaurants, minshuku (Japanese bed and breakfast) and stores while two former residences – Nakamura Residence and Kamidonya Shiryokan – are preserved as they were back in the day. Narai is incredibly photogenic in autumn, when bright foliage lights up the surrounding Kiso mountain range.

Kumano Kodo, Wakayama prefecture

Unesco-designated pilgrimage trails make up the Kumano Kodo on the Kii Peninsula in Wakayama prefecture. The 70km route leads through dense, lush forest and stops by plenty of ancient shrines and temples. One of the most famous destinations is the Kumano Nachi Taisha, which boasts a three-storey vermillion pagoda and Nachi no Taki, which, at 133m, is the tallest waterfall in Japan. 

Takachiho Gorge, Miyazaki

The breathtaking Takachiho Gorge in Miyazaki is best seen from the water – you can rent a small rowing boat and take a romantic cruise down the calm Gokase River. This is no paddle in the park, though: the gorge is filled with natural wonder and you’ll be surrounded by lush maple trees and the dramatic 17m-tall Minai-no-taki waterfall. Prefer to stay on dry land? The gorge is still beautiful from above – hikers can walk along the 1km Takachiho Promenade for a landscape view, best enjoyed during the summer illumination or the vermillion autumn foliage.

Himeji Castle, Hyogo prefecture

Himeji is perhaps Japan’s most famous castle. It even served as the basis for this emoji: 🏯. Also known as the White Heron, Himeji Castle is a giant, stark white structure that has miraculously survived wars and natural disasters. The castle dates back to the 17th century but was restored in 2015, allowing visitors inside to admire the refurbished architecture. If you’re planning on visiting, bookmark the official website for live queuing times. 

The beaches of Ishigaki, Okinawa

Imagine a white sand beach with water so crystal clear you don’t even need snorkelling gear to see the fish. There’s no need to use your imagination in the tropical paradise of Okinawa, a string of islands between Japan and Taiwan. Of the 49 inhabited islands, Ishigaki is easily one of the most scenic, with a mix of mountains, jungles and sandy beaches to satisfy both the active and adventurous, and those who prefer lounging on the beach. Spend the day tanning and swimming at Yonehara Beach or have a look at sea critters in azure waters on Kabira Bay, where you can take a glass-bottom boat tour.

A Forest Where Gods Live at Mifuneyama Rakuen Park, Saga

The sprawling Mifuneyama Rakuen Park in Saga prefecture was created more than a century ago in 1845, but teamLab has taken it into the future with edgy, immersive digital art that changes the way we interact with nature.

As a whole, the grounds now look like an enchanted forest after dark, with different exhibits scattered across the property. There’s a surreal projection of a silent waterfall in a secluded part of a jungle. A rolling garden of azalea shrubs pulses with lights as if the plants were breathing. In the darkness of the night, trees take on an otherworldly glow, holographic carp swim across a lake, digital flowers bloom on rocks while strokes of calligraphy appear like a painting in formation across a sacred boulder. It’s magic and there’s nothing quite like it anywhere in the world.

Hill of the Buddha at Makomanai Takino Cemetery, Hokkaido

Leave it to starchitect Tadao Ando to create beauty out of loss and grieving. Ando designed Sapporo’s circular Makomanai Takino Cemetery around a giant 13.5m-tall statue of the Buddha, letting his head peak out from the top of an artificial hill. The industrial concrete, Ando’s signature material, contrasts with lavender surrounding the cemetery, and covers the Buddha’s body. The only way to see the full sculpture is by entering the hollow 40 metre ‘hill’ through a dark tunnel. When you reach the (natural) light at the end of the tunnel, you’ll see the ever graceful Buddha sitting before you. Jaw, dropped.

Yakushima, Kagoshima

Off the coast of Kagoshima prefecture is Yakushima, a nature lover’s paradise. The best way to see the small island, which inspired the setting of the Ghibli film ‘Princess Mononoke’, is through multi-day treks: you’ll forget about the absurdities of modern life as you hike the moss-covered dirt tracks and admire yakusugi, the oldest surviving trees in Japan, more than 1,000 years old. There are multiple trails catering to different experience levels, from an easy-peasy one-hour hike to an exhilarating 20-hour overnight journey. Highlights include the overnight trek to see the ancient Jomonsugi cedar tree, estimated to be between 2,000 and 7,200 years old.

Naoshima, Kagawa

Off the coast of Kanagawa prefecture, in between Okayama and Shikoku Island, the Seto Inland Sea is home to a row of small islands dedicated to contemporary art. The six ‘art islands’ are Teshima, Naoshima, Inujima, Megijima, Ogijima and Shodoshima – but if you’re short of time, Naoshima is the pick of the bunch.

A trio of Tadao Ando-designed museums on Naoshima – Chichu Art Museum, Benesse House Museum and Lee Ufan Museum – were built in an industrial style, making them surreal sights in the midst of nature. Meanwhile, the Art House Project, which showcases Japanese and international artworks in refurbished traditional homes, preserves the charmingly rural and old-school vibe of the island.

No trip to Naoshima is complete without a photo in front of Yayoi Kusama’s ‘Pumpkin’, which sits against the backdrop of a clear blue sky and sea. This beautifully framed sight has become an endearing image of the ‘art islands’.

Zao Snow Monsters, Yamagata

Zao is not only one of the best ski resorts for those hitting the slopes, it’s also home to picturesque scenery straight out of a winter fairy tale – or a horror film. The slopes are lined with trees covered in snow and warped from the wind, so they look like gigantic, mutated snowmen. The monsters are even celebrated with their own festival in January, complete with illuminations and fireworks.  

Ogasawara Islands, Tokyo

Just a hop, skip and 24-hour ferry ride away from Tokyo, you’ll find the Ogasawara Islands, a group of islands sporting some of the best snorkelling, hiking and sandy beaches in Japan. Chichijima, one of the main islands, is a popular spot for dolphin and whale watching. The islands are truly remote, so you’ll get to relax, disconnect and enjoy the subtropical climate far from the bustling city. Minamijima, off the coast of Chichijima, is only accessible by tour guide, but the eccentric rock formations and white sand beach are definitely worth the extra effort.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Kyoto

Sure, Arashiyama can be touristy, but there’s nothing more soothing than the sound of bamboo slowly swaying in the wind. Head to the bamboo grove early in the morning (it’s open 24 hours) to avoid the crowds. Don’t miss out on Tenryuji Temple, a Zen temple with a relaxing landscape garden, and Nonomiya Shrine, which appeared in ‘The Tale of Genji’ – both are inside the grove. 

Kurokawa Onsen, Kumamoto

There are many hot spring towns in Kyushu but only Kurokawa Onsen makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. You won’t find large hotels or tacky advertising hoardings here; the town has retained its original atmosphere with wooden ryokan in the valley around Mt Aso.

Unlike flashy onsen towns filled with tour buses and visitor attractions, the focus at Kurokawa Onsen is simply the baths. You can enjoy nature while soaking in the steaming water at the outdoor baths, called rotenburo . Or hop through three different public and private onsen with the wooden ‘Rotemburo Meguri’ pass for ¥1,300. The town is best explored in a yukata after sunset, once all the day bathers have left, especially during the winter bamboo illumination from December to April.

Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island, Hiroshima

This small island off the coast of Hiroshima is known for its deer, bright autumn leaves and Itsukushima Shrine, a large Shinto structure with a grand vermillion torii gate standing in the ocean. Spend the whole day on the island to see the torii gate in both high and low tides: at high tide, the entire shrine seems to magically float in the blue water, while at low tide, you can walk all the way up to the gate.

Long established as a place of Buddhist and Shinto worship, Itsukushima Shrine was founded in the year 593, and it is believed Miyajima is where the gods live. The island feels like a slice of paradise; you can spend the day frolicking with deer, hiking through maple leaves in the mountains or just sitting on the shore and watching the sun set behind the torii gate.

Yamadera Temple, Yamagata prefecture

A 30-minute, 1000-step uphill hike will lead you into the Yamadera Temple complex, a small collection of Buddhist halls on the side of a mountain. Climb a few storeys higher and you’ll find Godaido Hall, a small vantage point that looks out into the countryside of Yamagata. Especially picturesque in summer and autumn, you’ll see fog rolling through the hills as you gaze at one of the best hiking views in Tohoku. 

Hitachi Seaside Park, Ibaraki

All flower lovers should add Ibaraki’s Hitachi Seaside Park to their bucket list. Best known for its blue sea of approximately 5.3 million nemophila in spring, and bright red kochia or summer cypress in autumn (pictured), Hitachi Seaside Park also grows California poppies, roses, daffodils and even sports a Holland-inspired tulip garden. The fun doesn’t stop with the flowers, there’s also an amusement park, a children’s adventure zone and 11km of cycling paths in the 350-hectare park.

Korakuen, Okayama

Korakuen in Okayama, along with Kenrokuen in Kanazawa and Kairakuen in Mito, is one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan, a traditional honour it has held since the 19th century. The rolling landscape, covering approximately 144,000 square metres, is a fine example of traditional Edo-period (1603-1868) beauty. While the garden was damaged by war and natural distasters in the past, it has consistently been restored based on historcal illustrated maps. As one of the larger landscape gardens in Japan, Korakuen is sprawling enough to boast large lawns, ponds, plum and cherry trees and Japanese cranes. The garden is incredibly picturesque in all four seasons, thanks to a well-curated selection of plants to make sure there are always flowers year-round. And that grand view of Okayama Castle in the background is the icing on the cake.

More about Japan

Best foodie destinations in Japan

Japanese cuisine may have conquered the world, but you should experience it at its homeland in these food cities in Japan

6 best road trips in Japan

Looking for a relaxed yet socially distanced way to travel? Hop in a car and take these scenic road trips through Japan

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

• Terms of use
• Work for Time Out
• Time Out Group
• Advertising
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies

Time Out Tokyo

• Magazine subscription
• Digital edition
• Buy the guide to Tokyo

Time Out products

• Time Out Worldwide

Boutique Japan

Japan’s Best Off-The-Beaten-Path Places

If you’re the type of traveler who seeks out unique, non-touristy places, this short list of our favorite off-the-beaten-path Japan destinations is for you.

Most people who visit Japan focus on more well-known places, like Tokyo and Kyoto — and with good reason. You’ll find the modern and ancient capitals in our sample trips , along with other renowned destinations, because they’re truly worthwhile.

But to complement your travels to what might be considered “essential” destinations, it’s also worth getting off the beaten track to spend time in areas of Japan that fewer travelers visit.

It’s also a good way to minimize exposure to crowds. Particularly during peak seasons , it’s normal for iconic places to attract lots of visitors. Yet even at popular times of year, you can almost feel like you have the beauty of Japan to yourself by venturing to more remote parts of the country.

So to help you plan the most unique trip possible, we’re pleased to present a selection of the best off-the-beaten-path places in Japan. (If you’re looking for even more inspiration, see our comprehensive guide to Japan’s best destinations ).

Originally written in 2014, this post was updated and republished on August 28, 2020.

Notes About Travel in Rural Japan

Traveling through the Japanese countryside is ultimately easier than many travelers imagine. Here are a few key things you should know, which are generally applicable to the destinations featured below (and rural Japan on the whole).

• Expect to stay in ryokans (Japanese-style inns) at least some of the time. Even in less-visited regions most cities have hotels, but in very remote areas there may only be Japanese-style options.
• Trains in Japan are wonderful and the country has a comprehensive rail network, but in off-the-beaten-track areas it’s often easiest to explore by car (some travelers enjoy driving, while others prefer to have a private driver).
• It’s safe to say you’re likely to encounter fewer English speakers in more rural parts of Japan. Read more on what you should know about the Japanese language .

Without further ado, we present our favorite off-the-beaten-path areas of Japan (not listed in order of preference – we love them all!):

Located in the southwest of Japan, Kyushu is a perennial favorite among Japanese people and Japan enthusiasts for its food, natural scenery, and onsen (hot springs). It’s also the birthplace of shochu , Japan’s most popular distilled liquor.

For most visitors, the gateway to Kyushu is the city of Fukuoka. From Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, it’s a straight shot by shinkansen (bullet train) to Hakata Station.

For some travelers, the easy domestic flight to Fukuoka Airport may make the most sense – and Fukuoka Airport also serves many international flights from throughout Asia.

Below are some of our favorite places and experiences in Kyushu.

Highlights of Kyushu, Japan

• Kyushu’s largest city, Fukuoka , is perhaps Japan’s most “livable” large city, with friendly people, pleasant weather, a dynamic arts scene, and amazing cuisine. The food in Fukuoka (also known as Hakata) is a major draw for culinary travelers: the city is known for its yatai street stalls, tonkotsu ramen, and much more.
• Beppu is Kyushu’s most famous onsen destination, but for a less “gaudy” experience try the more laid-back town of Yufuin , or the hot springs village of Kurokawa Onsen .
• The city of Nagasaki is worth visiting for its history (both during the Edo Period, and WWII), its charm, and its eclectic cuisine.
• For travelers interested in traditional and modern craft, Saga Prefecture is a must, with highlights including Arita , Imari , and Karatsu .
• Mount Aso is one of Japan’s most impressive volcanoes, and don’t miss the chance to enjoy a picturesque boat ride through the majestic Takachiho Gorge .
• The best place to experience Kyushu’s natural wonders is on the remote island of Yakushima , a few hours’ ferry ride (or short flight) from Kagoshima , Kyushu’s southernmost city. Yakushima is a dream for nature lovers, with ancient forests, hikes to waterfalls, and more.

Located in northern Japan (just south of Hokkaido), the Tohoku region is by far one of our favorite of Japan’s lesser-visited areas. Thanks to its relatively out-of-the-way location, most travelers end up missing it. This is unfortunate for them, but good news for you if you’re looking for an authentic off-the-beaten-track experience.

Tohoku is a large region including various distinct prefectures (Akita, Aomori, Fukushima, Iwate, Miyagi, and Yamagata), and there is no single “best” way to explore it all.

A common route for people visiting Tohoku is to travel from Tokyo to the city of Sendai by shinkansen , and from here continue to explore the region by train and/or car (if you skipped ahead, see above for Notes About Travel in Rural Japan ).

Below are some of our favorite places and experiences in Tohoku.

Highlights of Tohoku, Japan

• Tohoku’s largest city, Sendai , is a convenient gateway to many of the region’s rural highlights, and is worth a stop in its own right – especially if you love Japanese food . Sendai has a vibrant culinary and nightlife scene, with great izakayas and local sake .
• Long famed in Japan as one of the country’s most scenic destinations, Matsushima Bay is a lovely place to hike or just enjoy the views. The nearby port town of Shiogama is an excellent place to enjoy fresh sushi.
• Like Kyushu, the Tohoku region has too many wonderful onsen to name. Visit the quintessential hot springs town of Ginzan Onsen (said to have inspired Ghibli ), or venture to the remote Nyuto Onsen for an unforgettable rustic onsen experience.
• The Sanriku Coast is remarkable not only for its scenery and traditional towns, but also for its resilience following the tragic tsunami of 2011.
• For history lovers, the cities of Kakunodate (most famous for its samurai district) and Hirosaki (most famous for its castle) are highly worth visiting.
• One of Japan’s most spiritual areas, Dewa Sanzan (the Three Mountains of Dewa) is a traditional pilgrimage destination, with beautiful scenery, historic shrines, and great hiking options. (While not in Tohoku, read about Mount Koya , another spiritual destination in Japan.)
• The entire Hachimantai region is a nature-lover’s dream, with Lake Tazawa (Tazawako), mountain hikes galore, and a wealth of natural hot springs (including Nyuto Onsen mentioned above).

Tohoku is too large and its regions too varied to succinctly summarize, but hopefully this piques your interest in this often overlooked part of Japan.

Even among this collection of Japan’s hidden gems, Shikoku stands out for its beauty and remote feel. If you’re looking for an isolated yet stunning slice of the Japanese countryside, Shikoku is a fantastic destination to consider.

Why visit Shikoku? Beautiful nature, peaceful villages, art islands, wonderful local food (including Japan’s best udon), hot springs, and a rich traditional culture including matsuri such as the lively Awa Odori.

Most travelers enter Shikoku via the cities of Takamatsu or Tokushima, and the ideal entry point will depend on your first destination.

It is possible to explore some of Shikoku by rail, but — echoing the Notes above — a rental car or private driver is likely your best option, as transport links within the island are relatively limited. (If your main destination is the art island of Naoshima, a car is not as essential.)

Below are some of our favorite places and experiences in Shikoku.

Highlights of Shikoku, Japan

• Actually just off the coast of Shikoku, Japan’s famous “art island” of Naoshima is a major draw for travelers interested in art and architecture (see our introduction to Naoshima ). A short ferry trip away is the lesser-visited island of Teshima , home to the awe-inspiring Teshima Art Museum .
• Perhaps Shikoku’s most important gateway, the city of Takamatsu is worth exploring. You could spend hours at Ritsurin Koen, a spacious and elegant garden, and make sure to sample the local udon at one of the city’s many specialty shops.
• Kotohira is a small, charming town featuring the island’s best-known shrine, Konpira-san (also known as Kotohira-gu), as well as a magnificent old kabuki theater, Kanamaru-za.
• The lively city of Matsuyama is full of history and flavor, and home to one of Japan’s oldest hot springs destinations, Dogo Onsen , along with the original preserved Matsuyama Castle (Matsuyama-jo).
• To get away from it all, venture to the Iya Valley deep in Shikoku’s hard-to-reach interior, where you’ll find striking landscapes, delightful old-fashioned accommodations, hiking and rafting, as well as hot springs and waterfalls.
• The Shikoku Pilgrimage (Shikoku Henro ) is one of Japan’s most important pilgrimages (another, though not on Shikoku, is the Kumano Kodo ), and includes 88 Buddhist temples located throughout the island. Most visitors choose to pay a visit to a small selection of the temples.
• Located just east of Teshima (see above), the island of Shodoshima is known for its traditional soy sauce production as well as its Mediterranean climate and bountiful olive groves.
• The charming town of Uchiko is an attractive detour for travelers who enjoy picturesque old streets and little old-fashioned shops.
• The laid-back city of Kochi , on Shikoku’s southern coast, feels about as far from the mainland as possible. Like Matsuyama (mentioned above), the city boasts an original castle, along with temples, famed local cuisine, and beaches nearby.

4. Hokkaido

Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, is no “secret,” and in fact is quite well-known especially thanks to its incredible skiing and snowboarding. But beyond its famous winter highlights most travelers don’t realize how much Hokkaido has to offer — and what an appealing summer destination it is.

When most of Japan is dealing with the intense heat and humidity of summer, Hokkaido is irresistibly pleasant, making it an ideal time to explore the island. It also has a beautiful if brief autumn before the long, snow-filled winter begins.

Unlike most of Japan, Hokkaido is renowned for its wide-open spaces, and it’s a great destination for travelers interested in the outdoors, adventure sports, and wildlife.

Perhaps even more importantly — at least for many of our travelers — Hokkaido is an extraordinary culinary destination, worth visiting for its seafood (and some of Japan’s best sushi and sashimi), produce, dairy (including outrageously good cheese), and even bread and pastries (the island is home to some amazing bakeries).

For most travelers, the easiest way to get to Hokkaido is by domestic flight. There are plenty of daily flights from throughout Japan to the Sapporo area’s New Chitose Airport (which also serves a number of international destinations).

Another option for travelers with a bit more time is the Hokkaido Shinkansen. You can get from Tokyo to the southern Hokkaido city of Hakodate in just a few hours.

(In line with the Notes above, once in Hokkaido a car may be your best bet for exploring the island, depending on your itinerary.)

Below are some of our favorite places and experiences in Hokkaido.

Highlights of Hokkaido, Japan

• If you’re visiting for the nature, you may be tempted to skip Sapporo , the island’s largest city. But if you’re here for the food, you’ll want to spend some time eating your way around this lively city. Along with its cuisine, Sapporo also has a smattering of interesting art and architecture, and in winter plays host to the famous Snow Festival (Yuki Matsuri).
• Home to what some skiers and snowboarders believe to be the world’s best powder, Niseko is Japan’s most famous ski resort (and also home to a dynamic culinary scene). Among too many to list, other winter resorts in Hokkaido include Rusutsu , Furano , Kiroro , Tomamu , and Asahikawa .
• Noboribetsu Onsen is one of the best places to enjoy an exquisite ryokan stay, with beautiful natural surroundings and splendid meals featuring local and seasonal ingredients.
• The UNESCO World Heritage Shiretoko National Park stands out even on this list as one of Japan’s most remote areas, home to some of the country’s most pristine wilderness and wonderful wildlife viewing opportunities.
• Biratori is a small town rich in indigenous Ainu culture and home to the Biratori Nibutani Ainu Culture Museum.
• If you take the shinkansen from Tokyo, you’ll end up in Hakodate , renowned for its seafood and morning market, and its small historical districts.
• Along with skiing in winter, Furano is a popular destination for its lavender fields in summer, and the idyllic Biei nearby is also home to vibrant flower fields.
• Another top winter destination, Asahikawa , is also one of Hokkaido’s best hiking areas in summer, with easy access to the impressive Daisetsuzan National Park .
• Yoichi , where you’ll find the Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery, is an important destination for whisky lovers. On the way or as a detour, the port town of Otaru has a small historical district (and excellent seafood).
• On Hokkaido’s eastern coast, Abashiri is home to the Museum of Northern Peoples, and the Moyoro Shell Mound Museum.
• Wildlife enthusiasts also flock to Kushiro Shitsugen National Park for a chance to witness endangered Japanese cranes.
• Last but certainly not least, Hokkaido is home to a wealth of pristine lakes, from Shiretoko (mentioned above) to Lake Akan , Lake Toya , Lake Kussharo , Lake Shikotsu , Lake Onuma , and Lake Mashu .

Most people have heard of Okinawa (like Hokkaido, its existence is no secret), but few travelers realize just how beautiful it is. Because of this, we consider Okinawa to be one of Japan’s most underrated destinations.

Imagine a more laid-back, subtropical version of Japan, and you can begin to picture what makes Okinawa so appealing. With lovely beaches and jungles, the scenery is spectacular; you’ll find world-class scuba diving and marine life; and the weather is fantastic year-round (though note that it does get cool at times of year).

Okinawa’s islands are full of picture-perfect beaches, but we typically recommend Okinawa most for travelers who are interested in a combination of stunning landscapes, activity, and local culture. The rich and fascinating Ryukyu culture lives on in many aspects of life throughout the islands, including in Okinawa’s food , lively music, and distinctive architecture.

One reason many travelers skip Okinawa is its distance from mainland Japan, though this shouldn’t stop you. There are convenient flights from major Japanese cities to Okinawa (there are also some international flights).

Most travelers fly into Naha Airport on Okinawa’s main island, or New Ishigaki Airport on the island of Ishigaki in Okinawa’s far-flung Yaeyama Islands. Flights to the larger Naha are more frequent, but you may want to skip Naha and the main island if you’re opting for an off-the-beaten-path adventure in the Yaeyama Islands.

Once in Okinawa, expect to travel by ferry for shorter island-hopping excursions, and inter-island flight for longer trips (for example, from Ishigaki to Naha).

Below are some of our favorite places and experiences in Okinawa.

Highlights of Okinawa, Japan

• We love Okinawa on the whole, but if you only visit one area consider the secluded paradise of the Yaeyama Islands , which are actually located closer to Taiwan than mainland Japan. The Yaeyama Islands include Ishigaki, Iriomote, and Taketomi (more on these below), as well as Yonaguni (particularly famous for its scuba diving), Kohama, and Hateruma.
• Begin your Yaeyama Islands adventure in the small city of Ishigaki . Some travelers choose to stay on Ishigaki and use it as a convenient base for island-hopping around the local islands. Ishigaki itself is famous for the scenic Kabira Bay, and is also full of places to enjoy Okinawan food and music (the sound of the sanshin is intoxicating). You can also hike, bike, snorkel, and dive.
• From Ishigaki, the nearest island is tiny Taketomi , which has pretty beaches, and a quaint and beautifully-preserved historical town center.
• Another wonderful island within easy reach of Ishigaki is the lush, jungly island of Iriomote , which offers great hiking, waterfalls, canoeing and kayaking, SUP, and more.
• Located between the Yaeyama Islands and Okinawa’s main island is Miyako Island (Miyako-jima), another off-the-beaten-path gem, known for its great beaches and marine activities.
• Okinawa (the main island, Okinawa Honto) is a major draw for tourists thanks to its convenience and plethora of resorts. While we still tend to recommend more out-of-the-way islands, it can be a good option for families. Its main city of Naha offers plenty to do, including the colorful Makishi Market and the unique Shuri Castle. Most of the resorts are further north, where the Churaumi Aquarium is also located.
• Near the main island you’ll also find the Kerama Islands National Park , with a quieter atmosphere and — you guessed it — great beaches!

Looking for more inspiration?

We hope our guide to Japan’s best off-the-beaten-path destinations helps you as you plan your Japan trip! For more inspiration, see our 25 Japan experiences to add to your bucket list .

More Great Posts

Is Japan Expensive?

One of the most common myths about Japan is that it’s incredibly pricey — but how expensive is Japan really?…

Japan’s Best Boutique and Luxury Hotels & Ryokans

The best hotels and ryokans in Japan range from charming traditional inns in the countryside, to stylish design hotels and…

Traveler’s Guide to the JR Pass (Is It Worth It?)

The Japan Rail Pass (or JR Pass, for short) can be a good way to get around Japan, but many…

Plan Your Japan Trip

Learn more and contact us to discuss your unique trip.

Get Started

• The Process
• Testimonials

Protect Your Trip »

Best places to visit in japan.

Known as the Land of the Rising Sun, Japan's civilization dates as far back as 30,000 years. Today, the archipelago seamlessly blends its rich history with its ultra-modern present. And while its capital, Tokyo, is a must-visit for first timers, Japan has so much more to offer travelers of all types, from cherry blossoms to white sand beaches to soothing onsen (hot spring spas). U.S. News took into account cultural attractions, culinary options and accessibility (among other factors) to bring you the best places to visit in Japan. Have a favorite? Vote below to help decide next year's ranking.

Izu Peninsula

This metropolis is a feast for the senses. Neighborhoods like Ginza and Akihabara buzz with flashing lights and larger-than-life shopping, while Meiji Shrine and the Tokyo Imperial Palace give you a look into Japan's storied past. There are also a number of green spaces like Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, which acts as a place to escape from the chaotic, concrete jungle. What's more, Tokyo is regularly regarded as a top foodie city thanks in part to its abundant Michelin-starred restaurants (the most you'll find in any city in the world), so come hungry.

Travelers most interested in Japan's history and traditions should head to Kyoto. Centrally located on the archipelago, Kyoto has long been considered the cultural capital of Japan. Here, you'll find more than 1,000 Buddhist temples and 400-plus Shinto shrines (you can't miss the Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Fushimi Inari Taisha), including a whopping 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites. You can also stroll through geisha districts like Gion and Miyagawacho, admire classic wooden architecture and visit traditional teahouses before checking out more modern attractions, such as the Kyoto Aquarium.

Nikko is the place to go to see lavish architecture surrounded by nature. Head to Nikko National Park, one of Japan's oldest national parks, to enjoy an up-close look at traditional structures situated alongside mountains, lakes, waterfalls and hot springs. The park is especially beautiful in fall when its trees display vivid shades of yellow, red and orange. The 103 Edo-era (1603–1868) temples and shrines in Nikko include world-renowned sites like Toshogu Shrine and Rinnoji Temple.

Situated about 35 miles southwest of Kyoto, this port city is worth a visit for its food alone. One of the city's most famous dishes, the tasty pancake-like okonomiyaki (which means "grilled as you like it" in Japanese), is made with batter, cabbage and your choice of meat and other toppings. After you've gotten your fill of the delectable local cuisine, explore the flashy Dotonbori neighborhood, check out the reconstructed 16th-century Osaka Castle or head to contemporary sights like Universal Studios Japan and the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan.

As Japan's second most populous city, Yokohama is often touted as a more approachable and more affordable alternative to Tokyo (located 22 miles northeast). As one of the country's first ports to open to international trade, Yokohama features unique culture fusions, including a sizable expat population, Western-style buildings in the Yamate area and the largest Chinatown in Japan (it has more businesses than residents). While here, visitors can explore Minato Mirai 21, the city's modern central district teeming with skyscrapers and shopping malls, and visit museums ranging from the Cup Noodles Museum to the Mitsubishi Minatomirai Industrial Museum.

More than 160 islands comprise Okinawa, a top destination for snorkeling and diving. The Japanese prefecture boasts proximity to multiple coral reefs teeming with fish, manta rays and hammerhead sharks that you can access from beautiful beaches like those found on Okinawa's Kerama Islands. These 20-plus islands are also ideal places to see migrating whales between January and March. Back on the main island, visitors will find one of the world's largest aquariums, several castle ruins and a museum that focuses on Okinawa's unique history and culture. And on the less developed Iriomote Island, adventurous travelers can hike to awe-inspiring waterfalls.

Spared from World War II air raids and the major natural disasters that have affected other Japanese cities, Kanazawa on the western coast is home to some of the country's best-preserved architecture from the Edo period. Sites like Kanazawa Castle, Seisonkaku Villa and Myoryuji temple are popular among visitors, as are the Higashi Chaya geisha district and Nagamachi Samurai District. Plus, no trip to Kanazawa would be complete without a visit to the resplendent Kenrokuen Garden. With its water features, bridges and a variety of flowering trees that add beauty to any season, Kenrokuen is often described as the perfect garden.

Nestled in the mountains of the Gifu prefecture, Takayama is ideal for visitors looking for a rural retreat with a dose of history. Start your visit with a rickshaw ride through the well-preserved old town, which features sake breweries, traditional residences and shops that date back to the feudal ages. Then, head to the Hida Folk Village, a former farming village with 30 gassho-style houses. When you've worked up an appetite, indulge in must-try local specialties including Hida beef and Takayama ramen. To further immerse yourself in Takayama culture, visit during the Takayama Festival, held for two days every spring and fall.

The country's tallest mountain and one of its most iconic landmarks is a popular destination for outdoor recreation. For centuries, Japanese artists and poets have been inspired by Mount Fuji's almost perfectly round form. The Fuji Five Lakes region at the foot of this UNESCO World Heritage Site makes a great base for the thousands of climbers who visit each year. Enjoy the area's museums and amusement park during the warmer months. Or, arrive in winter to soak in the onsen and ski Mount Fuji's slopes.

Located on Kyushu (Japan's third-largest island), Fukuoka offers travelers a mix of urban sprawl, sandy coastlines and ancient temples and shrines. Can't-miss sights include Tochoji Temple – home of the largest sitting wooden Buddha in Japan – and Nokonoshima Island, which features colorful flower fields and beautiful views of the surrounding bay. Fukuoka is also known for its incredible Hakata ramen, so be sure to try this tasty dish at one of the city's many food stalls. Plan your visit around one of Fukuoka's lively festivals, such as the Hakata Gion Yamakasa, which takes place throughout the first half of July.

Head to the smallest of Japan's four main islands if you're looking to get off the beaten path. Shikoku is best known for its 88 Temple Pilgrimage – a nearly 750-mile loop that covers sacred sites around the island. Whether you're trekking this path or creating your own, you'll encounter Shikoku's natural beauty (think: forest-covered mountains and an unspoiled coastline). Meanwhile, the city of Kochi features cheap eats and a well-preserved castle. If you're visiting in mid-August, add Shikoku's cultural pinnacle, Awa Odori, to your itinerary. One of the most famous festivals in Japan, this dance celebration in the city of Takushima is a must-do.

Mountainous Hakone is one of Japan's most popular hot spring destinations. Nestled within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, the town features 17 different hot springs, plus a hot spring theme park with unique baths like one with coffee and another with mulled wine. After you've dried off, visit one of Hakone's art museums, such as the Hakone Open-Air Museum, the Okada Museum of Art or the Hakone Museum of Art. No Hakone vacation would be complete without enjoying spectacular views of Mount Fuji from Lake Ashinoko and the Komagatake Ropeway.

After an earthquake caused significant damage to the city in 1995, Kobe rebuilt itself into a thriving cosmopolitan city. You'll want to remember to bring your appetite when you visit. Kobe is famous for its namesake beef, as well as its sake. It's also considered one of Japan's most attractive cities, with sleek architecture and beautiful green spaces like Sorakuen Garden. For some of the city's best views – especially at sunset – go to the top of Mount Rokko or ride the Kobe Nunobiki Ropeway. End your evening exploring Nankinmachi (Kobe's compact Chinatown) or dining at one of Kobe Harborland's waterfront restaurants.

For many, Hiroshima brings up memories of war, as the city is where the world's first atomic bomb attack occurred in 1945. But today, Hiroshima is a city of peace, with the vast Peace Memorial Park as the center for monuments and memorials like the  the Children's Peace Monument and the UNESCO-certified Hiroshima Peace Memorial (Atomic Bomb Dome). It is also a city of great beauty. Travelers can take a scenic stroll through Shukkeien Garden, peruse the exhibits at the Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art or visit Sandankyo Gorge to hike or boat past its beautiful waterfalls, caves and coves.

Tourists flock to the island of Miyajima (formally named Itsukushima) for its prime attraction: Itsukushima Shrine and its postcard-worthy torii gate. To see the shrine at its most picturesque, try to visit during high tide, when the gate appears to float on the water. Since the island is just a 30-minute ferry ride from Hiroshima, it makes for a great day trip. However, visitors may want to stay the night at a charming ryokan (Japanese-style inn) to experience Miyajima at its most serene and walk by the illuminated shrine at night.

An outdoor-lover's delight, Matsumoto is just 22 miles east of Kamikochi, an awe-inspiring valley in the Hotaka mountain range. But though it serves as a gateway to the Japanese Alps, this city in central Japan should not be skipped over. As the birthplace of contemporary artist Yayoi Kusama, known for polka dots and pumpkins, Matsumoto pays her tribute at the Matsumoto City Museum of Art. Meanwhile, those who prefer more ancient masterpieces can visit Matsumoto Castle, one of the oldest and grandest castles in the country.  

Japan's first permanent capital is famous for housing the Great Buddha, a nearly 50-foot-tall bronze statue of Buddha. You'll find this jaw-dropping national treasure in Nara's Todaiji temple, which is the one of the largest wooden buildings in the world. While on the temple grounds, explore the deer-filled Nara Park and the ornate Kasuga Taisha shrine. Also save time for visiting Yakushiji Temple, one of Japan's oldest temples that dates back to A.D. 730.

This peninsula situated 62 miles southwest of Tokyo makes a great getaway from the busy city. It is popular among locals and tourists alike thanks to its relaxing hot springs and stunning beaches. These, along with various museums and ryokans, can be found in cities like Atami and Shimoda on the Izu Peninsula's eastern coast. During spring visits, travelers will also want to check out Kawazu's vibrant pink blooms at the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival. Meanwhile, on the southern and western coasts, vacationers will find more rugged yet equally scenic coastlines, such as Cape Irozaki and Dogashima.

12 Day Tour of Japan

Japan by Train: The Grand Tour

Osaka to Tokyo, via historic cities and natural wonders, on Japan’s high-tech train network.

Starts at: Osaka

Ends at: Tokyo

Duration: 12 days

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Chubu Sangaku National Park

Shirakawa-go and Gokayama

You may be interested in.

Best Places to Visit in Asia

Best Places to Visit in Thailand

World's Best Places to Visit for 2023-2024

Africa & The Middle East

Best Places to Visit in Africa in 2023

Best Places to Visit in October 2024

Australia & The Pacific

Best Places to Visit in Australia and The Pacific in 2023

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 28 Best Water Parks in the U.S. for 2024

Holly Johnson|Timothy J. Forster May 8, 2024

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

The Journal

Travel Inspiration

8 Wonderful, Unique Places to Visit in Japan

The Modern Travel Agency

Fora Travel

https://www.foratravel.com/the-journal/unique-places-to-visit-in-japan

From hot springs filled with snow monkeys to a town filled only with life-size dolls, the most unique places to visit in Japan capture the country’s natural beauty, most sacred sights and fun, eccentric spirit.

Ready to go? Connect with Fora and we'll help you get off Japan’s beaten path with expert travel recommendations. Better yet, book your accommodations with us and gain access to amazing hotel perks and upgrades for the same price you’d pay when booking alone.

The 8 most unique places to visit in Japan

First time in Japan ? Read on for eight of the unique places to visit in Japan.

1. Jigokudani Yaen Koen (Snow Monkey Park): scenic trails, hot springs & snow monkeys that know how to relax

Jigokudani Yaen Koen is not only one of the most unique places to visit in Japan, it’s also famous on the world stage. 

Since 1964, Jigokudani Yaen Koen has welcomed visitors to its gorgeous trails and hot springs, which are filled with wild — but largely friendly — snow monkeys. It’s the only known place where monkeys of any kind are seen bathing in geothermal pools. 

The park is about three to four hours from Tokyo by car (around six hours by train). And don’t forget, if you’re deciding where to stay in Tokyo , we can help.

2. Hokkaido: Japan’s second largest island is also an adventurer’s dream

Hokkaido isn’t just one of the most unique places to visit in Japan, the island is also arguably the best place to stay in Japan if you’re looking for outdoorsy adventures. 

Sapporo, best known for its world-renowned breweries, is the only major city on the island. Otherwise, Hokkaido is filled with opportunities for hiking, skiing and other snowsports (check out our Niseko skiing guide or Niseko mountain getaway itineraries for examples).

The Noboribetsu hot springs and accompanying spas are also among the best in the country (sadly, no snow monkeys included).

Not interested in traveling out of the US for skiing? Check out the most unique places to stay in Colorado or the most unique places to stay in Utah , two of North America’s greatest places for snow sports.

3. Miyajima (the “Shrine Island”), Itsukushima: a unique place to visit in Japan dedicated to Shintoism

Miyajima , which translates into “Shrine Island,” is the unofficial name of the island of Itsukushima in the Seto Inland Sea. The island is best known for a series of sacred Shinto holy sites, including Itsukushima Shrine , a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Itsukushima is also one of the most unique places to visit in Japan to connect with nature, especially in spring (check out the best months to visit Japan ). The local wildlife is used to tourists, so it’s not uncommon to see deer and other animals near the shrines and village.

Itsukushima can be found just off the coast of southern Hiroshima. 

Ready to travel? Connect with Fora  to plan and book your Japan trip today.

4. Mount Kōya, Wakayama Prefecture: a unique place to go in Japan to find peace away from the major cities

Around two hours south of Osaka by car or train you’ll find the Mount Kōya settlement, the center of Shingon Buddhism. Dozens of Buddhist temples dot the mountain, most of which allow (respectful) visitors. The architecture of the city alone merits a visit, and the mountain is incredibly scenic — and peaceful. 

If you’re traveling to Osaka , Mount Kōya is worth the two-hour detour (by car or train). It’s a great place to find your center away from the bustle of Japan’s major cities. Connect with Fora and we can help you plan a day trip from Osaka (and help you decide where to stay in Osaka , as well). 

Check out our Osaka travel guide and the coolest things to do in Osaka .

5. Ōkunoshima, (aka Rabbit Island): rabbits, rabbits and more rabbits

Ōkunoshima is a small island off the coast of Hiroshima with a runaway-rabbit-population-turned-tourist-attraction. Here the rabbits are overtly friendly, and most allow visitors to feed and pet them. The gorgeous island also provides a picturesque setting for camping and hiking.

Ōkunoshima was also the site of a chemical weapons factory that was heavily used during World War II. Though long abandoned now, the ruins still stand — and an accompanying museum serves as a reminder of the atrocities of war.

6. Pokemon Center Shibuya (& other anime attractions in Tokyo): where to explore Japan’s unique pop culture

Anime and manga are huge aspects of modern Japanese culture, and both have made equally large inroads into global pop culture. 

There is perhaps no greater example of this than Pokémon, which has transcended the realm of entertainment to become a physical museum-slash-rare-collectible shop in one of Tokyo’s most electric wards. Pokémon Center Shibuya is a can’t-miss destination for even casual fans of the series, and one of the most unique places to go in Japan. 

Anime fans can also enjoy the Ghibli Museum , which honors one of anime’s greatest and most successful studios. Plus, the Akihabara Ward in Tokyo is filled with gaming centers, collectible shops and other dedications to Japan’s most popular entertainment export. 

If you’re traveling to Tokyo , check out our Tokyo cultural itinerary for more details. And remember: when you book with Fora , we'll hook you up with a room or suite at the coolest hotels in Tokyo .

7. Nagoro Doll Village, Shikoku Island: a strange exhibit dedicated to the former residents of a mostly abandoned town

Of all the most unique places to visit in Japan, Nagoro Doll Village (aka Nagoro Scarecrow Village) may be the strangest. A remote town on Japan’s Shikoku Island, Nagoro has always had a minuscule population. But since the early 2000s, what was once a population of around 300 has dwindled to about three dozen. 

Perhaps to bring “life” back to the now mostly abandoned town, artist Tsukimi Ayano — once a resident herself — has crafted over 400 life-size dolls in the likeness of former residents and fictional characters. The dolls inhabit the local school, a utility project, bus stations and more.

By car, Nagoro is about three hours from Shikoku’s capital of Matsuyama and closer to four hours away from Osaka, otherwise known as “Japan’s kitchen” (featured in our Japan foodies’ guide ).

8. Aoshima (aka “Cat Island”): Japan’s most unique place to visit for travelers obsessed with cats

Like Ōkunoshima, Aoshima – or Ao Island — near the southern tip of Honshu, is overrun by (mostly) friendly critters — this time, cats. If you’re spending more than a week in Japan , this unique place to visit boasts a cat-to-human ratio somewhere around 36-to-1, according to the last count.

It’s not exactly clear how the feline population got so out of hand on “Cat Heaven Island.” And despite relatively recent efforts to stabilize the population, there are still well over 100 cats on the tiny island.

Get off the beaten track in Japan with the help of Fora

Our list of the most unique places to visit in Japan could go on indefinitely, but why not connect with Fora? We'll help you plan a trip to Japan — weird and exciting destinations included.

We can also score you great perks at the coolest hotels in Japan — at no extra cost — and they can help you build awesome itineraries and more. Get off the beaten path in Japan with a Fora Advisor and experience the trip of a lifetime.

Book with Fora

Tell us more about yourself to get matched with a Fora Advisor and start planning your dream trip today.

10 Unique Things To See/Do In Japan for an Unforgettable Trip

Whether you’re interested in culture , history, food , shopping or sports, Japan has it all. Japan is a country with many unique attractions worth seeing. Here are 10 unique things to see and do in Japan.

Table of Contents

Watch a Sumo match

Watching Sumo wrestling is one of the most unique things to do in Japan. It is Japan’s national sport that dates back over a thousand years and one of the most iconic sports in the world. Many of the traditions and rituals such as salt tossing, foot-stomping and singing are still followed today.

Credits: Hiroaki Maeda

The rules in sumo are very simple. The wrestler who exits the ring first or touches the ground or touches the ground with any part of his body other than his feet loses. Matches take place on an elevated ring called dohyo, made from clay and sand. Most matches usually only last a few seconds but on rare occasions can last up to a minute.

One of the best ways to watch a sumo match is during a sumo tournament (basho), where the crowd is very passionate. There are 6 tournaments held each year, with each lasting 15 days in 4 different cities (Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya and Fukuoka). For an authentic Japanese style experience, floor seats are recommended. These seats are also closer to the action with a great view. Tickets go on sale a month in advance, as they are very popular events, it is best to purchase as soon as they are available.

Visit a Matsuri

Festivals or ‘matsuri’ as they are known in Japanese, are an important part of Japanese culture and tradition and a favourite for tourists. There are many festivals in Japan, with many of these taking place in the summer months and are held annually, celebrating a cultural or historic event or a shrine’s deity. It is a great way to immerse yourself in Japanese culture. With over 200,000 of these festivals taking place all over Japan you’ll never be too far away.

Credits: Yoshizaku Takada

Processions are a main part of the experience, where the shrine’s kami (god) is carried through the streets in mikoshi. It is the only time in the year the kami leaves the shrine. Decorated floats are an important part of festivals, and are accompanied by drums and music.

Many festivals have their own style and characteristics, some are very energetic and loud, while others are more calm and relaxed. Among the most popular festivals throughout the year are the Sapporo Snow matsuri, the Gion Matsuri in Kyoto and the Tenjin Matsuri in Osaka .

Experience traditional theatre

Kabuki is the traditional form of Japanese theatre dating back to the Edo period . It is an art form in showmanship, the performance includes drama, dance and music. The all-male performers wear elaborately designed costumes and eye-catching makeup, along with exaggerated actions performed by the actors. Plots are usually based on historical events, dramas, conflicts, love stories, conspiracy or other well-known stories.

Kabuki performance can be found in major cities (including Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Fukuoka) but the best place to see it is at the Kabukiza theatre in Ginza , Tokyo. The theatre was recently reconstructed and reopened in 2013. It is the most accessible for foreign tourists as they offer rental monitors that provide English explanations and subtitles.

Visit the Ghibli Museum

If you are a fan of Studio Ghibli, then the Ghibli Museum is definitely a museum worth visiting. The museum is a must-see for fans of one of Japan’s most famous animation studios. The charming museum is designed in the same style of the studio’s films, made up of a series of themed rooms giving visitors the idea they are inside an artist’s storyboard. Each room has a unique theme. You can learn all about the history and techniques of animation as well as watch movies that are exclusive to the museum. There are also special exhibitions as well as a rooftop garden, cafe and gift shop.

Tickets are not sold at the museum and must be purchased in advance. They can be purchased from Lawson convenience stores. Currently, the museum is only open to residents of Mitaka city, where the museum is located but is expected to reopen to the general public from September.

Studio Ghibli Amusement Park is coming in 2022

Stay in a capsule hotel

Staying in a capsule hotel is one of the most unique types of hotels to stay in. They are usually found around major train stations in major cities and are a great way for an individual on a budget to stay a night. Capsule hotels offer a unique experience, with many foreigners interested in the uniqueness of the hotel.

The rooms you stay are tiny, about the size of a casket, giving a very cosy feel,   but if you’re claustrophobic or tall you probably won’t enjoy staying here. Each room is fitted with a bed, a light and an alarm clock. While most are catered to male guests, some also accept female guest and segregated floors.

Ride the Shinkansen

Travelling around Japan is simple and efficient and there is no better way than by Shinkansen. At speeds of over 320km/hr, the Shinkansen or bullet train is Japan’s high-speed train known for its comfort and cleanliness. You can travel between Tokyo and Osaka in no time at all. Along the way, you can enjoy some spectacular views of Japan’s countryside, including Mount Fuji. If you like Hello Kitty, you can even ride on a special Hello Kitty Shinkansen for a limited time.

Before you travel it is recommended to buy an ‘ekiben’ which translates as station lunchbox, which you can enjoy on your journey. Many regions have their own speciality bento which you can purchase in convenience stores at stations.

Visit Cat Island

If you’re a cat lover, there’s no better place to visit than Tashirojima, a small rural island in Miyagi Prefecture. Informally known as ‘Cat Island’ Tashirojima is home to several hundred cats, which are cared for and looked after by island’s residents. The cats were originally brought to the island to help with pest control. Since then their numbers have increased so much they outnumber the human population by almost four to one.

The island attracts visitors all year round. There is even a cat shrine honouring the cats for their work and service. Most of the cats are found on the southeastern side of the island around Nitoda Port, where they roam around freely. The cats enjoy the attention they get from the tourists who like to play and photograph them.

Visit Scarecrow Village

One of the strangest places to visit lies in Tokushima’s Iya Valley, Shikoku. Here lies a deserted village where almost all of its inhabitants are scarecrows, with around 350, each with their own facial expression.

Once many workers lived here but most left to work in the city. One woman stayed behind and decided to replace all the villagers with scarecrows. The scarecrows are located all around the village, you can see them in the fields, at the bus stop, on the street and even in the buildings.

For many, this is one of the weirdest things to do. The fact that there are so few people around the village makes it even creepier. As it is a very remote place to get to it can deter many visitors but it is definitely a unique place to visit.

Explore Art Island

For art lovers, there is probably no better place to explore than the Japan Art Islands. The islands are located on a secluded and hidden part of the Seto Inland Sea in Shikoku, amongst 3000 uninhabited islands, they are filled with many interesting and beautiful museums, exhibitions, installations and eye-catching modern architecture. A lot of the buildings are designed by well known Japanese architect Tadao Ando including the Chichu Museum and Benesse House, a combination of an art museum and a hotel.

The most well known of these islands is Naoshima, which includes several modern museums and many fascinating art pieces, including the famous pumpkins by Yayoi Kusama. There is also the Setouchi triennial art festival held here, the last one was in 2019. Some of the art from previous years include Yayoi Kusama, Monet, James Turrell, Tadao Ando and Many more.

Jigokudani Monkey Park

The Jigokudani Monkey Park, allows visitors to witness the unique experience of wild macaque monkeys bathing in the onsen. The park is a popular place to see the monkeys in their natural habitat, where up to 200 live in the nearby forest. The monkeys come down to the onsen to warm up and clean themselves. There is one large man-made pool where the monkeys like to gather, located near the entrance.

So there you have it, 10 unique things to see and do in Japan which will sure to leave with you a great experience.

Be sure to follow us on  Facebook , Instagram , Twitter , and Pinterest for more fun stuff!  See you again next time!

Alex is a graduate of photography from London. He has a strong interest in visual arts and culture. Alex is half Japanese and has a great knowledge of Japan, having spent several years living there, visiting many parts of the country.

Related Posts

• 12 Must Visit Places In...

Must-Visit Places in Japan, as Recommended by Locals

Japan is one of the top destinations in the world, with cultural marvels including Unesco World Heritage sites in Kyoto and beyond, to world-class shopping in Tokyo. But if you really want the inside scoop on where to visit, take a look at our round-up of the best places to see, as recommended by locals.

Want to get the inside track on where to visit in Japan? You can’t go wrong with a local guide at your side on our epic 12-day tour of the country – packed with thrilling day trips and culture-embracing activities .

The lavender fields of Furano, Hokkaido prefecture

When many people think of Hokkaido, they think of the Sapporo Snow Festival and the meters of deep powdery snow that falls on this northernmost prefecture of Japan every winter. But summertime can be a fantastic time to visit Hokkaido and escape the stifling humidity that pervades the rest of the country. The endless lavender fields of Furano make for a peaceful nature walk that will have you never wanting to go home.

Otaru Canal, Hokkaido prefecture

About 30 minutes by train from the prefectural capital Sapporo is the town of Otaru, home to the Otaru Canal. A water route that was used to support shipping in decades past, the canal is no longer in use but has been preserved as an historic site. The charming waterway lined with brick warehouses is just one of several attractions in Otaru, which include a German-style brewery and a music box museum.

The preserved samurai district Kakunodate, Akita prefecture

This former castle town in Akita may no longer have a castle, but Kakunodate does have one of the best-preserved samurai districts in all of Japan. Rent a traditional kimono for an unforgettable step into the past, particularly during spring when the town is awash in the pink petals of cherry blossom trees.

21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa

While the city of Kanazawa offers many attractions, the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art is easily the most highly underrated among foreign travellers to Japan. The museum building alone is an architectural masterpiece, a round glass structure that invites visitors in from all sides to roam, play and explore. The museum houses a mixture of free and paid exhibits, including Argentinian artist Leandro Erlich’s revered installation Swimming Pool .

Shirakawa village, Gifu prefecture

This quiet, secluded village at the foot of Mount Haku in the Gifu prefecture is famous for traditional cottages with pointed thatch roofs. The area experiences some of the heaviest snowfall in Japan, which creates an arresting scene in the winter.

Become a Culture Tripper!

Sign up to our newsletter to save up to $1,656 on our unique trips..

See privacy policy .

Kusatsu Onsen, Gunma prefecture

Among locals, Kusatsu Onsen is one of the top three most famous hot spring resorts in Japan. This town in the Gunma prefecture has streets lined with quaint shops and restaurants, traditional bathhouses, and ryokan inns. At the centre of town is the yubatake, the hot spring field from which the town’s restorative waters gush forth.

Koyasan spiritual retreat, Wakayama prefecture

Unplug from the modern world at this spiritual retreat atop Mount Koya in Wakayama prefecture. Koyasan is the home of Shingon Buddhism in Japan, and around 50 of the 100 or so temples on Mount Koya offer temple stays, known as shokubo, where you can stay overnight, observe morning services and daily prayers, and practise Ajikan meditation and the hand-copying of Buddhist sutras. Many of the temples offer wifi and Western-style toilets.

Naoshima island, Kagawa prefecture

The remote island of Naoshima in the Seto Inland Sea is home to an incredible array of contemporary art. Just a few thousand people live on the island, but many more visitors come every year to see the collection housed on Naoshima, which includes works from both international and Japanese artists, as well as traditional buildings converted into art installations.

Dogo Onsen, Ehime prefecture

The oldest bath house in Japan, Dogo Onsen is located in the Ehime prefecture on the island of Shikoku . Most Japanese people know it from the 1906 novel Botchan – required reading for primary school – which takes place in the town around Dogo Onsen. The historic bath house was also the inspiration for the public bath featured in the Studio Ghibli animated feature Spirited Away.

Nakasu food stalls, Fukuoka prefecture

Fukuoka is home to some of the best street food in Japan , centred around the Nakasu waterfront district. Enjoy skewers of grilled chicken, steaming hot pot, and bowls of hakata pork bone ramen while rubbing elbows with the friendly locals.

Yakushima rainforest, Kagoshima prefecture

The Yakushima rainforest, on a small island off the Kagoshima coast, is a place of unspoilt natural beauty. With moss-covered rocks, 1ooo-year-old cedar trees, and an abundance of rivers, gorges and waterfalls, Yakushima is a must for lovers of the outdoors. However, it is one of the wettest places in the world, so don’t forget your rainproof gear.

Ishigaki, Okinawa prefecture

Ishigaki is where the locals go when they want a taste of paradise. You can expect to find white sand beaches, clear water for snorkelling, and a taste of ancient Ryukyu culture, rulers over the Okinawa archipelago for centuries before it became a part of Japan. However, be sure to book your tickets early, as flights to Ishigaki often sell out due to popular local demand.

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips , led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.

Guides & Tips

How to experience off-the-beaten-track japan by bullet train.

How modern art revitalised the city of Towada, Japan

Film & TV

The best japanese movies to watch on the bullet train.

The Ultimate Guide to Getting around Japan

Top Tips for Travelling in Japan

Rediscover Japan with its Borders Fully Open

How Much Does a Trip to Japan Cost?

The Best Rail Trips to Book this Year

See & Do

The best places to visit with culture trip this autumn.

The Best Solo Trips to Take in Your 30s

Tomamu: a secret skiing spot in the heart of Hokkaido

Introducing Culture Trip's Rail Trips

Culture trip spring sale, save up to $1,656 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..

• Post ID: 1670699
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

• Internet ›

Social Media & User-Generated Content

• Most popular global mobile messaging apps 2024

As of April 2024, two billion users were accessing the WhatsApp messenger on a monthly basis. The app’s reach in usage penetration is particularly strong in markets outside the United States , and it is one of the most popular mobile social apps worldwide. WeChat amassed over 1.3 billion users, and Facebook Messenger amassed around 1,010 million users worldwide.  Instant messaging is a type of online chat which offers real-time text transmission via internet. Since the appearance of the smartphone and the subsequent explosion of mobile apps, low-cost or free chat and social messaging apps have proven themselves as a cheap alternative to operator-based text messaging via SMS. Many messenger apps offer features such as group chats, the exchange of graphics, video and even audio messages as well as stickers or emoticons.

Most popular global mobile messenger apps as of April 2024, based on number of monthly active users (in millions)

Additional Information

Show sources information Show publisher information Use Ask Statista Research Service

DataReportal

*Have not published updated users numbers in the past 12 months.

**Some Facebook Messenger ad platforms are unavailable in Australia, France, Canada, and the United States, so the figure shown here may under-represent the platform's overall audience.

Other statistics on the topic Mobile messenger and communication apps

Daily active users of Snapchat 2014-2024

• Number of active WeChat messenger accounts Q4 2013-Q4 2023

Countries with the most Snapchat users 2024

Communications

• WhatsApp: monthly usage in selected markets Q3 2023

• Immediate access to statistics, forecasts & reports
• Usage and publication rights
• Download in various formats

You only have access to basic statistics.

• Instant access  to 1m statistics
• Download  in XLS, PDF & PNG format
• Detailed  references

Business Solutions including all features.

Statistics on " Mobile messenger and communication apps "

• Mobile internet penetration rate in selected markets 2023
• Media usage in an online minute 2023
• Global main reasons for using the internet Q4 2023
• Most popular smartphone activities for global users 2022-2023
• Most used contact and communication methods worldwide 2023
• Most used contact and communication methods worldwide 2023, by age
• Most popular messenger apps worldwide 2024, by downloads
• Most popular messenger apps worldwide 2024, by IAP revenue
• Global number of mobile messaging app users 2022-2030
• Most used messenger by brand in the U.S. 2024
• Reach of most popular U.S. smartphone apps 2024
• Mobile video calls usage reach worldwide 2023, by region
• Mobile video call usage reach 2023, by age and gender
• Monthly global unique WhatsApp users 2020-2024
• WhatsApp user engagement in selected markets 2020-2023
• Global WhatsApp iOS downloads Q1 2024, by region
• Global WhatsApp Google Play downloads Q1 2024, by region
• Annual global app downloads of Facebook Messenger 2015-2023
• Global IAP revenue of Facebook Messenger 2017-2023
• U.S. Facebook Messenger users 2024, by age group
• Telegram global downloads 2023, by region
• Most popular Telegram channel categories 2023
• Telegram user distribution 2023, by age group
• Telegram Premium subscribers worldwide 2022-2024
• Signal global downloads 2020-2023, by region
• Telegram global IAP revenue monthly 2022-2024, by OS
• Most used smartphone apps by type in China 2023
• Monthly active users of leading messaging apps in China 2024
• Monthly app downloads of LINE in Japan 2023
• Most used mobile messaging apps South Korea 2023
• Zoom mobile app global downloads as of Q3 2023, by region
• Microsoft Teams mobile app global downloads as of Q4 2023, by region
• WhatsApp Business global downloads 2018-2023
• Global WhatsApp Business revenues 2023, by region
• WhatsApp Business: average revenue per user 2023, by region
• Global consumers and companies using WhatsApp Business 2023, by region
• WhatsApp Business MAU 2020-2023
• Countries with highest lifetime WhatsApp Business app revenue 2023

Other statistics that may interest you Mobile messenger and communication apps

• Premium Statistic Mobile internet penetration rate in selected markets 2023
• Basic Statistic Media usage in an online minute 2023
• Basic Statistic Global main reasons for using the internet Q4 2023
• Premium Statistic Most popular smartphone activities for global users 2022-2023
• Premium Statistic Most used contact and communication methods worldwide 2023
• Premium Statistic Most used contact and communication methods worldwide 2023, by age
• Basic Statistic Most popular global mobile messaging apps 2024
• Basic Statistic Most popular messenger apps worldwide 2024, by downloads
• Basic Statistic Most popular messenger apps worldwide 2024, by IAP revenue

Usage and reach

• Premium Statistic Global number of mobile messaging app users 2022-2030
• Premium Statistic Most used messenger by brand in the U.S. 2024
• Basic Statistic Reach of most popular U.S. smartphone apps 2024
• Premium Statistic Mobile video calls usage reach worldwide 2023, by region
• Basic Statistic Mobile video call usage reach 2023, by age and gender

Mainstream messengers

• Premium Statistic Monthly global unique WhatsApp users 2020-2024
• Premium Statistic WhatsApp user engagement in selected markets 2020-2023
• Premium Statistic WhatsApp: monthly usage in selected markets Q3 2023
• Basic Statistic Global WhatsApp iOS downloads Q1 2024, by region
• Basic Statistic Global WhatsApp Google Play downloads Q1 2024, by region
• Basic Statistic Annual global app downloads of Facebook Messenger 2015-2023
• Premium Statistic Global IAP revenue of Facebook Messenger 2017-2023
• Premium Statistic U.S. Facebook Messenger users 2024, by age group

Privacy focus

• Basic Statistic Telegram global downloads 2023, by region
• Basic Statistic Most popular Telegram channel categories 2023
• Premium Statistic Telegram user distribution 2023, by age group
• Premium Statistic Telegram Premium subscribers worldwide 2022-2024
• Basic Statistic Signal global downloads 2020-2023, by region
• Premium Statistic Telegram global IAP revenue monthly 2022-2024, by OS

Regional spotlight: Messaging apps in China and East Asia

• Premium Statistic Most used smartphone apps by type in China 2023
• Premium Statistic Monthly active users of leading messaging apps in China 2024
• Premium Statistic Number of active WeChat messenger accounts Q4 2013-Q4 2023
• Premium Statistic Monthly app downloads of LINE in Japan 2023
• Premium Statistic Most used mobile messaging apps South Korea 2023

Spotlight: Messenger apps for work

• Basic Statistic Zoom mobile app global downloads as of Q3 2023, by region
• Basic Statistic Microsoft Teams mobile app global downloads as of Q4 2023, by region
• Basic Statistic WhatsApp Business global downloads 2018-2023
• Premium Statistic Global WhatsApp Business revenues 2023, by region
• Premium Statistic WhatsApp Business: average revenue per user 2023, by region
• Premium Statistic Global consumers and companies using WhatsApp Business 2023, by region
• Basic Statistic WhatsApp Business MAU 2020-2023
• Basic Statistic Countries with highest lifetime WhatsApp Business app revenue 2023

Further related statistics

• Premium Statistic Brazil: usage of WhatsApp voice call function 2016-2020
• Premium Statistic Brazil: frequency of Facebook Messenger usage 2023
• Premium Statistic Brazil: main activities on Facebook Messenger 2023
• Premium Statistic Brazil: frequency of Telegram usage 2019-2023
• Premium Statistic Australia: smartphone activities 2015
• Premium Statistic Czech Republic: smartphone activities 2015
• Premium Statistic Hungary: smartphone activities 2015
• Premium Statistic Share of shoppers who purchased via smartphone apps in Denmark 2018, by age group
• Premium Statistic Austria: smartphone activities 2015
• Premium Statistic Smartphone activities in Denmark 2015
• Premium Statistic Most installed smartphone apps in Japan 2021, by category
• Premium Statistic Mexico: smartphone activities 2015
• Premium Statistic Serbia: smartphone activities 2015
• Premium Statistic Taiwan: smartphone activities 2015
• Premium Statistic Flea market app penetration rate Japan 2019, by age group
• Premium Statistic Concerns of app usage among the middle-aged and elderly in China 2021
• Premium Statistic Brazil: smartphone activities 2015
• Premium Statistic Top rated apps among the middle-aged and elderly in China 2021

Further Content: You might find this interesting as well

• Brazil: usage of WhatsApp voice call function 2016-2020
• Brazil: frequency of Facebook Messenger usage 2023
• Brazil: main activities on Facebook Messenger 2023
• Brazil: frequency of Telegram usage 2019-2023
• Australia: smartphone activities 2015
• Czech Republic: smartphone activities 2015
• Hungary: smartphone activities 2015
• Share of shoppers who purchased via smartphone apps in Denmark 2018, by age group
• Austria: smartphone activities 2015
• Smartphone activities in Denmark 2015
• Most installed smartphone apps in Japan 2021, by category
• Mexico: smartphone activities 2015
• Serbia: smartphone activities 2015
• Taiwan: smartphone activities 2015
• Flea market app penetration rate Japan 2019, by age group
• Concerns of app usage among the middle-aged and elderly in China 2021
• Brazil: smartphone activities 2015
• Top rated apps among the middle-aged and elderly in China 2021