Unusual Travel Destinations in Japan: Explore 17 Hidden Gems
Exploring Japan off the beaten path offers a wealth of unique experiences that go beyond the popular tourist destinations. Here’s a guide to alternative destinations, cities, nature and outdoors, beaches and islands, and valuable travel tips:
## Alternative Destinations and Cities
### Shikoku Island
- **88 Temple Pilgrimage**: This ancient pilgrimage route is perfect for those seeking a spiritual journey. It winds through mountains, forests, and serene villages, offering a deep connection with Japan's spiritual roots. - **Iya Valley**: Known for its vine bridges and breathtaking views, Iya Valley is a remote and captivating region. Crossing the Kazurabashi vine suspension bridge is both adventurous and awe-inspiring. - **Oboke Gorge**: A boat ride along this gorge reveals towering cliffs and crystal-clear waters, particularly stunning in autumn.
### Nara
Located near Kyoto, Nara offers a genuine Japanese countryside experience. It is famous for its pristine gardens and temples, as well as friendly deer roaming freely in Nara-Koen Park.
### Nagoya
Often overlooked by foreign visitors, Nagoya is a great place to avoid crowds. It offers a rich cultural experience in the heart of Japan.
## Nature and Outdoors
### Tottori Sand Dunes
Located in western Japan, these sand dunes are a unique natural wonder. They offer a desert-like experience amidst a lush landscape.
### Todoroki Valley (Tokyo)
This hidden gem in Tokyo provides a serene escape from the city. It features bamboo groves, a red bridge, and a secluded temple, offering a tranquil and traditional Japanese atmosphere.
### Japanese Alps
Part of the San'in Region, this area offers stunning mountain landscapes and hiking trails. It's less crowded than popular areas like the Japanese Alps around Nagano.
## Beaches and Islands
### Kyushu's Volcanic Islands
Kyushu is home to various volcanic islands, such as Sakurajima, which offer breathtaking volcanic landscapes and hot springs.
### Okinawa
Known for its crystal-clear waters and white-sand beaches, Okinawa is a paradise for beach lovers. It also offers a unique cultural experience distinct from the rest of Japan.
## Travel Tips
1. **Transportation**: Use Japan's efficient rail network, but consider purchasing a JR Pass for long-distance travel. 2. **Accommodation**: Mix city hotels with traditional ryokans for a varied experience. 3. **Food**: Try local specialties at each destination, such as Okinawan seafood or Nagoya's hitsumabushi. 4. **Language**: While many younger people speak English, learning basic Japanese phrases can enhance your experience. 5. **Cultural Etiquette**: Respect for tradition is key; dress modestly when visiting temples or shrines.
Some of the other destinations mentioned in the list include:
- Aizuwakamatsu, Fukushima is known for Tsuruga Castle, the Nisshinkan Samurai school, and sake breweries. - Hida Furukawa, Gifu is recommended for cycling, countryside, and traditional architecture. - Matsuyama, Shikoku Island is recommended for history, temples, and food. It is Shikoku's largest city and features Matsuyama Castle, Ishite-ji Temple, and Dogo Onsen. - Wakayama City, Wakayama is recommended for culture, unique cuisine, and beaches. It is an hour from Osaka by train and features Wakayama Castle, shrines, temples, fresh sushi and seafood, and beaches. - Mount Koya is the birthplace of Shingon Buddhism. - Kabira Bay is the most popular place to visit on Ishigaki Island. - Naha is the capital of Okinawa and a popular vacation destination. - The Yaeyama Islands are located in the southernmost inhabited archipelago of Japan. - Kinosaki is a hot springs town located along the willow tree-lined Otani-gawa River. - Okunoshima can be accessed by ferry from Tadanoumi and includes a Poison Gas Factory Museum. - Lake Biwa is the largest freshwater lake in Japan and is registered as a national park. - It is recommended to spend at least two nights in Mount Koya to fully explore. - It is busiest in winter with several resorts taking advantage of the powdery snow for skiing, snowboarding, and sledding.
Some destinations offer unique experiences such as:
- Visitors can stay overnight in ancient Buddhist temples and experience meals and prayer services with the monks. - Ishigaki is the main island and offers world-class scuba diving, fresh sushi, and adventure. - Nearby Taketomi-jima is known for its traditional Okinawan houses, stone walls, sandy streets, and a beautiful beach. - Okunoshima, also known as Rabbit or Bunny Island, is famous for its thousands of free-roaming rabbits. - Yakushima is an island south of Kyushu mainland and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Exploring Japan off the beaten path allows travelers to experience the country's diverse landscapes, cultures, and spiritual heritage in a more authentic and memorable way.
- Shikoku Island offers the 88 Temple Pilgrimage, a spiritual journey winding through mountains, forests, and serene villages, providing a deep connection with Japan's spiritual roots.
- Iya Valley, a remote and captivating region on Shikoku Island, is famous for its vine bridges and breathtaking views, making crossing the Kazurabashi vine suspension bridge both adventurous and awe-inspiring.
- Oboke Gorge, located on Shikoku Island, is a scenic boat ride offering towering cliffs and crystal-clear waters, particularly stunning in autumn.
- Nara, located near Kyoto, offers a genuine Japanese countryside experience with pristine gardens, temples, and friendly deer roaming freely in Nara-Koen Park.
- Nagoya, often overlooked by foreign visitors, offers a rich cultural experience in the heart of Japan without the crowds.
- Tottori Sand Dunes, located in western Japan, are a unique natural wonder, providing a desert-like experience amidst a lush landscape.
- Todoroki Valley, a hidden gem in Tokyo, offers a serene escape from the city with bamboo groves, a red bridge, and a secluded temple, providing a tranquil and traditional Japanese atmosphere.
