Japan offers a diverse travel experience, from the neon-lit metropolis of Tokyo to the ancient temples of Kyoto. However, if you want to discover a different side of Japan, away from the crowds and clichés, consider exploring some lesser-known destinations that this charming country has to offer.
In this article, we will direct you to a portion of the less popular pearls in Japan, drawing from the individual encounters of three explorers who have shared their accounts on the web. Whether you’re in quest for normal wonder, social legacy, or extraordinary objections, you’ll find adequate motivation for your next excursion to Japan.
Portable Wife: Exploring Japan’s Countryside and Coastline
Katie is a blogger for Portable Wife. She and her husband spent two weeks traveling around Japan, visiting some of the most beautiful rural areas in Japan. She said her goal is to “appreciate Japan’s natural beauty and cultural diversity as much as possible, while avoiding tourist traps and big cities.”.
One of the features of her excursion was the Shimokita Promontory situated at the northern finish of Honshu Island in Japan. This remote and rough region is home to wild ponies, volcanic lakes, and shocking bluffs. Katie and her significant other leased a vehicle and cruised all over the promontory, halting at different attractions, for example, the hallowed sanctuary of Osorezan, which is viewed as the doorway to the following life, and a progression of tremendous stone developments looking like Buddha sculptures, like the Hortoki Gora Rock.
Another unique destination recommended by Katie is Shikoku Island, the smallest and least populated of Japan’s four main islands. The island is renowned for its rich history and culture, particularly the 1200-kilometer pilgrimage route connecting 88 Buddhist temples. Katie and her husband visited several temples and other attractions, such as the Iya Valley, a secluded scenic area with vine bridges, hot springs, and waterfalls, as well as the Naruto Whirlpools, a natural phenomenon where tides create massive whirlpools in the water.
Katie said that taking the ordinary road in Japan was an amazing experience that allowed her to “see a side of Japan that most tourists will never see.”. She also said that with car rental and GPS, it’s easy to get around, and the locals are very friendly and helpful.
Reddit users: Hiking and camping in Japanese national parks
A Reddit user named u/thorowawayjapanhike shared his or her hiking and camping experiences in some national parks in Japan, which cover about 10% of Japan’s land area. The user stated that he or she wants to “see nature and escape city life for a period of time.”.
One of the national parks visited by travelers is Nikko National Park, located in Tochigi Prefecture, about a two-hour drive north of Tokyo. Nikko is famous for its historical and cultural sites, such as the mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate, and the Tokugawa Shrine. However, it also boasts numerous natural attractions, such as Kegon Falls, one of Japan’s tallest and most beautiful waterfalls, and the picturesque Lake Chuzenji surrounded by mountains. The traveler mentioned hiking by the lake and camping at nearby campsites, enjoying the beauty and tranquility.
Another national park explored by users is the Otase Mountain National Park located at the northernmost and largest of Japan’s major islands, Hokkaido Prefecture. Daiseto Station is the largest national park in Japan, covering over 2000 square kilometers of mountainous terrain. It is also one of the most primitive and primitive regions in Japan, with a variety of wild animals, flora and fauna. The user stated that he or she hiked to Asahi Island, the highest peak in Hokkaido, and camped in a small cabin near the mountaintop, witnessing the sunrise and sunset on the mountain.
The traveler expressed that hiking and camping in Japanese national parks was a rewarding and challenging experience, providing a sense of adventure and accomplishment. They also mentioned that it is easy to find information and maps online, and the trails and campsites are well-maintained and clearly marked.
Invisible tourists: visiting castles and gardens in Japan
The blogger Alyse and her accomplice of Undetectable Sightseers endured three weeks going around Japan, visiting a portion of Japan’s most noteworthy and most established palaces and nurseries. She said she wants to “gain a superior comprehension of Japan’s set of experiences and culture, while staying away from groups and scams.”.
One of the castles visited by Alyse is Himeji Castle, located in Hyogo Prefecture, about an hour west of Osaka. Himeji Castle is the largest and best-preserved castle in Japan, dating back to the 14th century. It is also known as the ‘White Heron Castle’ due to its elegant white appearance resembling a flying bird. Alyse was amazed by the architecture and craftsmanship of the castle and enjoyed exploring this complex consisting of over 80 buildings and structures.
Another place recommended by Alyse is Matsumoto Castle, located in Nagano Prefecture, about two and a half hours northwest of Tokyo. Matsumoto is one of the oldest and most original castles in Japan, dating back to the 16th century. It is also known as the ‘Crow Castle’ because its black exterior contrasts with the surrounding mountains. Alyse said that the design and history of the castle left a deep impression on her, and she appreciated it being less crowded and more authentic than other castles.
Alyse likewise visited a portion of Japan’s most lovely and quiet gardens, for example, Kenrokuen Nursery situated in Ishikawa Prefecture, around over two hours north of Kyoto. Kenrokuen is one of the “Three Extraordinary Nurseries of Japan” and is viewed as a magnum opus of scene plan. It highlights different components like lakes, scaffolds, lights, and trees, making an amicable and beautiful scene. Alyse said she prefers the serenity and tastefulness of nurseries, and she feels like she’s in a fantasy.
Another garden that Alyse likes is the Ritsurin Garden located in Kagawa Prefecture on Shikoku Island. Ritsurin is one of the largest and most exquisite gardens in Japan, covering an area of over 75 hectares. It took 200 years to build and showcases the beauty and diversity of Japan’s nature. It has different parts, such as South Pool, North Pool, and Engejin Bridge, providing different scenery and atmosphere. Alyse said she was captivated by the diversity and details of the garden, and felt like she was in a painting.
Alyse said that visiting Japanese castles and gardens was a delightful experience, allowing her to ‘discover hidden gems and cultural treasures of Japan.’ She also mentioned that it is easy to use public transportation and a Japan Rail Pass, and the locals are polite and helpful.
Related posts:
Japan Off the Beaten Path: 16 Amazing Japan Hidden Gems
Stunning Places to Discover in Japan Off the Beaten Path
17 Off the Beaten Path Destinations in Japan – Emily Luxton Travels
