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15 Beautiful Japanese Villages You Absolutely Have to Visit

• James Davies

While major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka are world-famous Japanese tourist destinations, if you're seeking a little more tranquility on your travels, you might be better suited journeying to one of Japan’s countryside villages. Steeped in history and culture and often set amongst breathtaking natural scenery, Japan's most beautiful villages are a haven for those desiring a break from city life. Selected by the Association of the Most Beautiful Villages in Japan for their overall scenic qualities along with history, tradition, and culture, here are 15 of Japan's most beautiful villages!

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1. Biei (Hokkaido)

Just over two hours from Sapporo by train, Biei and the surrounding countryside are amongst some of the most beautiful spots in Hokkaido . Biei is famous for its colorful rolling hills and fields of pretty flower parks, all visible from a number of different vantage points. The natural beauty of the region has regularly attracted advertisers and has been featured as the backdrop for a number of television shows in Japan, with many trees becoming local landmarks in the process.

Two of Biei's most scenic areas are Patchwork Road and Panorama Road. As its name suggests, Patchwork Road is a beautiful mishmash of colorful fields and flower gardens to the northeast of Biei. It covers an area rather than just a single road, which is particularly breathtaking during the vibrant seasons of summer and autumn. Here you'll find some of Biei's famous trees, such as the Ken and Mary poplar tree, which was the star of a car commercial in the 1970s. The enchanting trees on nearby Mild Seven Hill and the Seven Stars tree got their names after being similarly used in marketing campaigns for cigarettes. You can enjoy mesmerizing views of Patchwork Road from Hokusei Hill Observatory, a pyramid-like viewing tower near the Ken and Mary tree. Nearby is Zerubu Hill, one of Biei's many beautiful flower gardens.

South of Patchwork Road is Panorama Road, which again covers a region rather than a road. Here you'll find one of Biei's most iconic sights in Shikisai Hill, the largest and most stunning flower park in the area. Shikisai Hill's neat sweeping fields are filled with a kaleidoscopic range of colorful flowers that change with each season. Walking routes around the flower park offer incredible views of the gardens which sit beneath a dramatic range of volcanic mountains. Another smaller flower park, Kanno Farm, lies a little further south towards the town of Furano and is also famous for its beautiful lavender fields during the summer. Meanwhile, a half-hour drive from the center of Biei is the Shirogane Blue Pond, a man-made pond with a brilliant blue hue sitting beside the Biei River created by a rare type of mineral-rich local water.

2. Tsurui (Hokkaido)

The tiny town of Tsurui is located in eastern Hokkaido, around a 40 min drive from the city of Kushiro. Tsurui sits on the edge of Kushiro Shitsugen National Park, Japan's largest marshland that hosts a vibrant ecosystem most commonly associated with the red-crowned crane. Thanks to a concerted conservation effort, a population of around 1,000 red-crowned cranes now live in the area all year round.

One of the world's rarest species of crane, the red-crowned crane is traditionally a symbol of good luck and longevity and is a huge draw for nature lovers and wildlife photographers. There are several scenic spots in and around Tsurui where cranes can be seen, including the Tsurui Ito Tancho Crane Sanctuary close to the center of town. Hundreds of red-crowned cranes gather here during the snowy winter months, where they can be seen dancing and leaping in unison as part of their mating ritual.

Tsurui is also a spectacular place to visit outside of winter, with the village's array of cherry blossoms bursting into color during spring. In the summer, much of the Kushiro marshland and surrounding countryside becomes awash with thick vibrant green, and deer and foxes are commonly spotted in the national park. Agriculture and dairy farming are the main industries in Tsurui, and in spring and summer the town is surrounded by green fields of grazing cows. After summer, Tsurui’s landscape changes again, transforming from lush green into several shades of autumn orange and red.

3. Higashinaruse (Akita)

Home to less than 3,000 people, the historic town of Higashinaruse is located in the south-eastern corner of Akita Prefecture. The tranquil town boasts a gorgeous rural landscape and is filled with rice fields and surrounded by forest-covered mountains. Over ninety percent of Higashinaruse's total area is forested and laced with crystal-clean rivers, streams, and lakes, many of which are popular fishing spots with anglers looking to catch local trout and char fish.

The town sits beneath the Kurikoma mountain range, which stretches across Akita and the neighboring prefectures of Iwate and Miyagi. Many natural springs flow through the town, and there are a number of “onsen” (hot spring) spa resorts dotted in and around the area. Magnificent waterfalls can also be found along walking trails in Higashirasune's forests, with the Fudo Waterfall, just on the edge of the town, and the 20m-tall Tensho Waterfall in the Iwaikawa Aigawa National Forest being two of the most impressive.

Higashinaruse enjoys four very distinct seasons, making the town a great place to visit any time of year. In spring and summer, the forests burst into life. By mid-summer, the landscape is a dense patchwork of beautiful, lush greens, and come autumn, much of the forest around Higashinaruse turns a spectacular palette of orange and red. One of the best places to admire Higashinaruse's gorgeous autumn colors is amongst the beech forest that circles Lake Sukawa.

Higashinaruse also enjoys heavy snowfall during winter, with the region often layered in at least two meters of snowfall each year. This makes Higashinaruse a popular skiing destination, with the Jeunesse Kurikoma ski resort enjoying particularly beautiful fresh powdered snow. At night, look to the sky for a spectacular view of the stars - in 1999, Hirashinaruse was granted the title of having the most beautiful starry sky in Japan.

4. Kitashiobara (Fukushima)

Another remote rural village, Kitashiobara is similarly located in the north of Fukushima Prefecture amongst lush forests and dynamic mountain ranges. Kitashiobara is just over an hour's drive from Koriyama, which can be reached via shinkansen on the Tohoku-Hokkaido line. Kitashiobara was originally formed through the merging of three smaller villages located on the edge of the Bandai Asahi National Park. Today, Kitashiobara is a popular resort town, particularly with skiers who come to hit the slopes during the snowy winter season.

Sat in the shadow of Mt. Bandai, Kitashiobara is hugely popular with hikers who can enjoy countless spectacular views from any number of the region's walking trails. The view from the summit of Mt. Bandai offers a sensational panorama of the area's natural beauty, including breathtaking views of Lake Inawashiro, just one of several spectacular lakes around Kitashiobara. There are also plenty of scenic hiking trails around the three lakes to the north of the town, Lake Onogawa, Lake Akimoto, and Lake Hibara. Meanwhile, the Goshikinuma Nature Trail is one not to be missed, passing alongside the spectacular acidic waters of the Goshikinuma Ponds . The water of each pond flaunts a spectacular color, from emerald green to various shades of gorgeous blues, and even red.

Besides nature, Kitashiobara is also a great place for art lovers, particularly fans of Salvador Dali. The Morohashi Museum of Modern Art houses the world's third-largest collection of Dali's artworks. Set in a palatial building close to Lake Akimoto, the Morohashi Museum's collection of western art also includes paintings by legends like Vincent Van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, and Henri Matisse.

5. Kiso (Nagano)

Roughly an hour from Matsumoto by train, the town of Kiso sits between the mountains of the Central Alps, with Mt. Ontake dominating the skyline to the west. Kiso is another former post town, located deep in the beautiful forests of the Kiso Valley along the historic Nakasendo highway, a 500 km route that connected Kyoto and Tokyo during the Edo period (1603 – 1868). Kiso, then known as Yabuhara-juku, was the 35th of the 69 stations along the Nakasendo.

Today, much of the former Nakasendo route forms several hiking and walking trails. One former section of the Nakasendo route, the Nakasendo Toriitouge Pass, is now a popular trekking spot. The route passes through a dense forest of Japanese horse chestnut trees and connects Yabuhara-juku to Narai-juku. Here you'll find a beautifully preserved section of the Nakasendo trail, lined with gorgeous traditional old wooden houses and shops.

Elsewhere, two walking paths lead through the Mizukizawa Natural Forest, passing huge ancient cypress trees, many of which are hundreds of years old. The mountains around Kiso also make the town a popular skiing spot in the winter. The Yabuhara Kogen Ski Resort has a range of slopes catering to all levels, from complete beginners to experienced pros.

6. Nagiso (Nagano)

Less than an hour south of Kiso and just over an hour north of Nagoya by train is the town of Nagiso. Nagiso is another picturesque former post town with many exquisitely preserved traditional Japanese homes that can be seen along the old Nakasendo road. Just like Kiso, Nagiso is similarly framed by mountains and dense forests with a wide range of hiking trails. One of the most beautiful forest walks in the area leads to the Tadachi Falls, the collective name for seven impressive waterfalls in the Otaki River Valley.

Nagiso is most famous as being the starting point for Tsumago, a charming post town marking the beginning of the trail to Magome on the old Nakasendo road. If you plan to hike the old Nakasendo trail to Magome in neighboring the Gifu Prefecture, it's around a two-hour walk from Tsumago. Both Tsumago and Magome have been perfectly preserved to look as they did during the Edo period. Tsumago's streets are particularly beautiful and have even been declared a Nationally Designated Architectural Preservation Site. Tsumago's traditional old houses, shops, restaurants, and temples evoke images of a bygone age. A particular highlight is the Waki-honjin, a former inn where the Meiji Emperor once stayed, now a museum. At the Nagiso Town Museum just next door you can admire the interior of a traditional Japanese home while learning more about life in the area during the Edo period.

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7. Hayakawa (Yamanashi)

The village of Hayakawa in Yamanashi Prefecture has the distinction of being the least populated town in Japan with only 1,050 residents as of 2019. Nestled deep beneath Japan's Southern Alps, Hayakawa is a substantial leap off the beaten track! While it'll take a couple of trains and a bus to reach the tiny town from the nearest city of Shizuoka, those willing to make the trip will be rewarded with a beautiful traditional old town set amongst some of Japan's most spectacular countryside. The area is particularly beautiful during the autumn when the forest leaves glow orange and red.

Hayakawa is most famous for the district of Akasawa, an area of traditional houses and historic inns and temples. Perfectly preserved, it looks as though little has changed in centuries. Akasawa was a common stopping point for pilgrims along the 36-kilometer trek to Mt. Shichimen from nearby Mt. Minobu. The pilgrimage takes several days to complete, and Akasawa became a popular place to rest en route.

Many hikers and devotees still trek the ancient pilgrimage between the two mountains. Several ancient and impressive temples dot the forests along the way, and there are spectacular views of the tip of Mt. Fuji from the summit of both mountains. A few of Akasawa's traditional inns still remain, with those staying overnight being able to bask in a stunning night sky filled with stars. Hayakawa is also home to the world's oldest hotel, Nishiyama Onsen, which was recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as being over 1,300 years old, having first opened in 705.

8. Totsukawa (Nara)

Totsukawa in Nara Prefecture is another mountain town along a historic pilgrimage route. Though home to less than 4,000 people, the town covers a wide area of beautiful scenery and is Japan's largest village in terms of area. Located at the southern tip of Nara Prefecture, Totsukawa is set amongst a gorgeous landscape of hot springs, forests, mountains, rivers, and waterfalls. Like Hayakawa, Totsukawa is incredibly remote, and reaching the town without a car is fairly difficult. Public transport is limited to just a couple of bus routes from either Yamato Yagi Station or Shingu Station in neighboring Wakayama Prefecture.

Yet those that do make it to Totsukawa will be met with breathtaking and unspoiled scenery. Totsukawa is located on the ancient trails that form part of the historic Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, and pilgrims have passed by here for over 1,000 years. Totsukawa's Tamaki Shrine at the top of Mt. Tamaki is a sacred part of the route and has been granted UNESCO World Heritage status as one of the Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range. Alongside spectacular views, the atmospheric Tamaki Shrine is also surrounded by a number of stunning cedar trees, some of which are over 3,000 years old.

Amongst Totsukawa's famous sights is the Tanize Suspension Bridge, which stretches over 270 m across and 16 m above the Totsukawa River. From the swaying bridge, there are incredible views of the river and the valleys. You'll also find spectacular scenes of the valley and the bridge from the Moriyama Observation Deck, which can be reached via a steep hike behind the Takeharahachiman Shrine on the north side of the river. Elsewhere, the 32 m Sasanotaki Waterfall is recognized as one of Japan's 100 Best Waterfalls, which is set amongst a bamboo forest just off the Taki River. Totsukawa's waters are also famous for their hot springs and Tosenji Onsen, recognized as one of the 100 Best Hot Springs in Japan.

9. Yoshino (Nara)

In the heart of Nara Prefecture is the scenic historical town of Yoshino. By far the biggest draw here are the cherry blossom trees of Mt. Yoshino. Covered with over 30,000 cherry blossom trees, Mt. Yoshino is one of the most famous and popular cherry blossom viewing locations in Japan. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2004, around 8 km of roads and paths leading to the top of Mt. Yoshino are surrounded by thousands of cherry trees that bloom each April. However, Mt. Yoshino is not only a springtime destination – autumn turns much of the forest into a spectacular shade of orange and red while summer sees hydrangeas in full bloom.

There are several parks and observation points to witness breathtaking views of Mt. Yoshino's cherry trees and other scenery. Also en route are shops selling souvenirs and local snacks, restaurants, hotels, and ancient temples and shrines. Mt. Yoshino has been part of the pilgrimage route to Mt. Omine for several centuries and the historic Yoshimizu Shrine is an important landmark. Dating back from the 8th century, the temple briefly became the seat of the Japanese Emperor in the 14th century. Now housing a collection of important historical artifacts, Yoshimizu Shrine is now beloved for its sensational views of the mountain's cherry trees.

10. Ine (Kyoto)

Located on the coast in far north Kyoto Prefecture, the town of Ine is a fishing port with a long, fascinating history. About an hour from Amanohashidate by bus, Ine is set on a beautiful bay overlooking the Sea of Japan and is most famous for its traditional distinctive boat houses. Called "funaya," Ine boat houses line the water's edge all around Ine Bay. Mostly made from wood, these traditional fishermen's houses are raised over the water to allow boats to be moored underneath. The living quarters of the house are on the upper floor above the water. There are over 200 traditional funaya houses still standing in Ine, the best views of which are from the water on a boat tour from Ine Bay or from Amanohashidate.

Though the funaya are fascinating to see, Ine is still a working port and fishing remains the town's main industry. Other highlights include the Mukai Sake Brewery, which is close to the center of town and has been brewing sake since 1754. The brewery is known for its unique red sake, Ine Mankai, which is made from red rice and was served to world leaders during the G20 Summit in Osaka in 2019.

11. Kamikatsu (Tokushima)

Kamikatsu is another picturesque mountain town located on the island of Shikoku across the Seto Inland Sea. Though called a town, Kamikatsu is effectively the name given to a community of around fifty neighboring settlements spread across the region. These settlements are dotted all over the mountains at various altitudes between 100 - 700 m. The mountains are just a part of Kamikatsu's idyllic scenery.

The town is most famous for its countless picturesque terraced rice fields that stretch out in front of a backdrop of mountain peaks. A long and winding mountain road leads up to the Kashihara Rice Terraces which offers one of the best views over Kamikatsu's paddy fields, which have been declared one of the 100 Best Terraced Fields in Japan. The mountains of Kamikatsu are also blessed with a number of superb waterfalls, most notably the Kanjoga and Onbuchi waterfalls in the far northeast of town.

Perhaps the last thing you'd expect to find in the tiny town of Kamikatsu is an American brewery, yet this is where the craft beer brewery Rise and Win is based. A variety of beers are brewed here, including an IPA, a stout, and a white beer made from local yuko fruits, a citrus fruit similar to an orange that is native to Japan. All of the beers brewed here supply the Rise and Win’s own taproom in Tokyo and can be sampled in Kamikatsu in the brewery's onsite bar.

12. Kamijima (Ehime)

The village of Kamijima is spread across 25 islands in the Seto Inland Sea in Ehime Prefecture. The islands of Kamijima lie within the Setonaikai National Park, Japan's largest national park that encompasses over 9,000 km² of land and water around the Seto Inland Sea. Only seven of the islands are inhabited and only a handful of those are currently connected. The main islands of Yuge, Sashima, and Ikina are linked by bridge with the other four inhabited islands reachable by ferry. There are sublime views of the islands and sea to be found all around the coastlines of Kamijima. Cycling and hiking are popular activities, with the views from the Kushiyama Observation Deck well worth biking or trekking for.

The islands are noted for their cherry blossom trees that bloom in the spring, particularly around Mt. Sekizen on Iwagi island. The main island of Yuge is also a popular summer destination thanks to the beautiful golden sands of Matsubara Beach on its east coast. Ikina Island has a good selection of places to eat and local shops and is the easiest of Kamijima's islands to reach. A new bridge connecting Ikina Island to Iwagi Island is due to open in 2022. 

Kamijima's smaller and more remote islands have plenty to see too. Uoshima is around a 50-minute ferry ride from Yuge and is famous for octopus fishing. Takaikami Island, home to a population of only 15 people, has become famous for the big and bold manga murals that cover the buildings in the island's harbor. The uninhabited Teshima Island features an unusual art installation by the German Gerhard Richter called “14 Panes of Glass for Toyoshima."

13. Minamioguni (Kumamoto)

Minamioguni is located in the north of Kumamoto Prefecture at the foot of Mt. Aso. The historic heart of the village is centered around the Tanoharu River, just one of several rivers that wind through the town. Here, Minamioguni's old streets are lined with traditional Japanese shops and restaurants. On all sides of the Marurin Bridge are several onsen, taking advantage of the natural waters that flow from the surrounding mountains.

Minamioguni's rivers also feature a number of beautiful waterfalls that can be found throughout the town's forests. Amongst the most picturesque are the two falls that flow side by side where two rivers meet. Called “Meotodaki,” or “husband and wife falls,” the two waterfalls are where the Tanoharu and Oda rivers meet and become the Tsuetate River.

Around the Manganji River are several more sights to see. Amongst them is Konpira-sugi, a 1,000-year-old cedar tree that is over 12m in circumference. The monolithic tree has twice been struck by lightning and the burn marks from the last strike are still visible. Declared a Nationally Designated Natural Monument, Minamioguni's Konpira-sugi tree is still going strong despite its advancing years. Nearby, the beautiful Manganji Temple that dates from the 13th century and the neighboring garden is also well worth exploring. Further along the Manganji River, the public Kawayu Onsen might be a little too public for some. Recently voted Japan's most embarrassing public bath, the onsen is in the heart of the river right next to the passing road, meaning bathers have to run the risk of baring all to anyone who passes by.

Surrounding the old town are several plateaus with observation decks from where you can admire Minamioguni's beautiful landscape and the many surrounding mountain ranges. A hike to see the incredible panoramic views from the Hiranodai Kogen Observatory is well worth making the effort for. Similarly, beautiful views can be enjoyed at Oshido Stone hill in the south of the village, famous for the collection of ancient and mysterious megaliths that were believed to have been placed here around 4,000 years ago.

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14. Shiiba (Miyazaki)

Shiiba is another beautiful town surrounded by some of the most breathtaking and unspoiled natural scenery in Japan. Nestled at the foot of the Kyushu Mountains, the town is located far off the beaten track and is a popular place to hike. Shiiba is also rich in cultural heritage and there are several buildings and landmarks that have been recognized for their historical significance. Amongst them are the ancient farming houses found in the tiny mountainside hamlet of Tonegawa. Built with a unique architectural style that works in harmony with the mountainous terrain, the houses of Tonegawa have been protected as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings.

A large part of Shiiba's cultural history revolves around battles fought between two samurai clans in the 12th century. In 1191, samurai from the Heike Clan retreated to Shiiba after they were defeated by the Genji Clan. A warrior from the Genji Clan, Nasu Daihachiro, was sent to Shiiba to destroy what remained of the Heike Clan. Instead, he fell in love with Tsurutomi, a Heike princess, in a story of doomed love reminiscent of Romeo and Juliet. The couple stayed together for several years and had a daughter together before they were eventually forced to separate by the Shogun.

In the center of Shiiba stands Tsurutomiyashiki, which was once Nasu Daihachiro and Tsurutomi's home. The current building is a model based on the original and was reconstructed around 300 years ago. Built in an architectural style unique to Shiiba, Tsurutomiyashiki was designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan in 1956. Nearby is Shiiba Itsukushima Shrine, which is believed to have been built by Daihachiro Nasu in honor of the defeated Heike Clan and still stands over the town today. An enormous cedar tree, the second tallest in Japan, said to have been planted by Nasu Daihachiro at the Tonegawa Shrine was designated as a National Natural Monument in 1935.

The tale of Daihachiro Nasu and Tsurutomi is celebrated in the town every year during the 3-day Heike Festival, where the town's men and boys wear traditional samurai outfits and the women and girls dress as princesses. Shiiba is well-known as a town of performance art, with traditional "kagura" folk songs and dances also taking place each year. You can learn more about Shiiba's folk art traditions and the legacy of Dihachiro Nasu and Tsurutomi at the Shiiba Folk Art Museum, which explores the town's rituals, culture, and customs in depth.

15. Kikai (Kagoshima)

Kikai is located on the small island of Kikaijima in Kagoshima Prefecture. Part of the Amami Islands and closer to Okinawa than mainland Kagoshima, Kikaijima has a circumference of fewer than 50 km. Kikai is relatively flat with no mountains or particularly steep hills, which makes it a great place to explore on foot or by bike. Kikai's subtropical climate is most famous for the production of sugar cane grown in fields throughout the island. Huge banyan trees and a variety of citrus fruits are also found on the island, as are a diverse range of colorful tropical butterflies. Kikaijima is a coral island, which are common in tropical seas, and is thought to be rising at a speed of around 2mm a year.

There are excellent views of the sea and the nearby fields from Hyakunodai Park, the highest point on the island, at just over 200 m above sea level. All around the coast are a plethora of places to see Kikaijima's uplifted coral. Cape Tonbi and the Araki Nakazato Promenade are two of the best spots to witness Kakaijima's geologic origins up close.

The village of Aden is home to one of Kikai's most famous sights, the old lanes and streets lined with thick, high walls traditionally made from coral fossils. The walls were built to protect the area's houses, and especially their thatched roofs, from the harsh winds and storms that hit the island during typhoon season. If you're keen to see the beautiful coral reefs that live under the sea, you can either scuba dive or snorkel in the gorgeous clear tropical waters off the island, with Hawaii Beach on Cape Tonbi a particular highlight. Meanwhile, from December to April you can spot migrating whales in the sea off the coast near the Araki-Nakazato Promenade.

There’s So Much to See and Explore in Japan’s Most Beautiful Villages

As you can see, Japan is blessed with an almost endless array of beautiful villages that can be found right across the country. If you're looking for idyllic rural towns off the beaten path, isolated and snowy winter escapes, or somewhere to relax by the sea away from it all, why not plan a trip to one of the gorgeous towns and villages on our list! If you’d like to explore the full list of Japan’s most beautiful villages, you can find them all on the Association of the Most Beautiful Villages of Japan’s website .

Title image credit:  gandhi / PIXTA

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Thumbnail: Sakarin Sawasdinaka / Shutterstock.com

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

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Japan’s Countryside Wonders: 10 Must-Visit Rural Spots in Japan

Japan, a harmonious blend of old and new, traditional and modern, is renowned for its bustling metropolises like Tokyo and Osaka. These cities , with their iconic skyscrapers and neon lights, encapsulate the rapid technological advancements and the relentless pace of daily life. However, venturing beyond these urban jungles reveals a completely different facet of Japan: its enchanting rural landscapes. Steeped in tradition, history, and natural beauty , the Japanese countryside is a serene escape that offers travelers a profound connection to the land and its people.

It’s a timeless realm where ancient rituals, centuries-old architecture, and the rhythm of the seasons dominate the landscape. The importance of exploring beyond Japan’s urban centers cannot be emphasized enough for it’s in these less-trodden paths that the very soul of Japan resides.

The Allure of Japan’s Rural Beauty

Beyond the hustle and bustle of Japan’s metropolises lie expansive rice fields, dotted with tiny villages that seem to exist in their own time capsule. The air is fresher, the pace slower, and the landscapes more organic. Misty mountains, serene lakes, and babbling brooks paint a picture of tranquility. The rural charm is amplified by the old wooden houses, Shinto shrines, and farmers tending to their crops, a testament to the symbiotic relationship the Japanese have with nature.

The Japanese countryside is not just a visual treat; it offers a multisensory experience. The sound of a distant temple bell, the fragrance of fresh green tea leaves, the taste of seasonal fruits plucked straight from the tree, and the touch of handmade artisanal crafts weave together to create an unforgettable tapestry of experiences.

Venturing Beyond the Urban Sprawl

Visiting the rural areas of Japan is akin to flipping through the pages of a rich history book. Each village, each temple, and even each rice field tells a story of the generations that have lived and thrived there. These tales speak of resilience, harmony, and the unique Japanese philosophy of ‘wabi-sabi’ – finding beauty in imperfection and transience. By venturing beyond the urban centers, one immerses oneself in the authentic Japan, shedding light on the cultural practices, beliefs, and traditions that are often overshadowed by the neon glow of the cities.

Furthermore, the importance of these rural expeditions lies in their potential to foster sustainable tourism. Japan’s countryside is vulnerable. The younger generation is increasingly migrating to urban areas, leaving behind an aging population and, at times, deserted villages. Tourism can play a crucial role in revitalizing these areas, bringing in much-needed economic support, and ensuring that the rich cultural heritage of these hamlets is preserved for future generations.

In essence, exploring the hidden gems of Japan’s countryside is not merely a detour from the urban attractions; it’s an enriching journey into the heart and soul of a nation that has seamlessly interwoven the fabric of its rich past with the threads of modernity. So, as we unveil the 10 must-visit rural spots in Japan, prepare yourself for an odyssey that promises soulful encounters, picturesque vistas, and timeless memories.

The Allure of Rural Japan

Historical significance.

A deep dive into the Japanese countryside is akin to traveling back in time. The historical significance of these regions is palpable, with every structure, every path, and every tree echoing tales from the past.

• Samurai and Feudal Villages: Rural areas like the town of Hagi in Yamaguchi Prefecture or the little village of Tsuwano in Shimane are reminiscent of old samurai towns. With well-preserved samurai residences, old streets lined with white-walled buildings, and traditional establishments, these regions offer a peek into Japan’s feudal era. The very stones of the streets seem to whisper the valorous tales of samurai who once walked on them.
• Ancient Pilgrimage Routes: The Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route in the Kii Mountain range, a UNESCO World Heritage site, traces its origins back to over a thousand years. Wandering along these sacred trails, pilgrims are reminded of the spiritual journeys of emperors and aristocrats who once sought enlightenment here.
• Historical Preservation: Towns like Shirakawa-go and Gokayama are famous for their traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, some of which are more than 250 years old. Recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites, these villages encapsulate the essence of rural Japanese life from centuries ago.

Natural Beauty and Serenity

The countryside of Japan is a testament to the country’s incredible geographical diversity and its profound respect for nature.

• Diverse Landscapes: From the snow-capped mountains of Hokkaido to the lush forests of Kyushu, the natural beauty of rural Japan is both varied and mesmerizing. Places like the Japanese Alps offer breathtaking vistas, while the terraced rice fields in areas like Kyushu change with every season, reflecting nature’s ever-evolving palette.
• Seasonal Splendors: Japan is globally renowned for its cherry blossoms, but rural areas magnify this beauty manifold. Regions like Tohoku offer unparalleled views during the sakura season, while places like Nagano become a colorful tapestry during autumn.
• Quiet Retreats: The Iya Valley, often termed Japan’s “Tibet”, is one of the most remote and tranquil areas of the country. With its deep gorges, pristine rivers, and ancient vine bridges, it’s a haven for those seeking peace and tranquility.

Authentic Cultural Experiences

Rural Japan is where the heart of Japanese culture beats strongest, unobstructed by the cacophony of modern life.

• Traditional Crafts: Areas like Kanazawa are rich in traditional crafts, from gold leaf artistry to intricate silk dyeing techniques. Engaging with local artisans offers a deep appreciation for Japan’s enduring craftsmanship.
• Time-Honored Festivals: Rural festivals, like the Nebuta Festival in Aomori or the Gion Matsuri in Kyoto’s outskirts, offer a vibrant display of Japan’s cultural heritage. Rooted in ancient customs, these festivals provide a profound connection to Japan’s spiritual and artistic essence.
• Culinary Delights: The Japanese countryside is a treasure trove of gastronomic experiences. Be it the fresh seafood of coastal villages or the seasonal delicacies of mountainous regions, rural Japan offers a culinary journey that tantalizes the palate while revealing age-old recipes and cooking techniques.

The allure of rural Japan lies in its deep-seated history, unmatched natural beauty, and authentic cultural immersion. It beckons travelers to step off the beaten path and discover a Japan that’s profound, timeless, and endlessly enchanting.

Ten Must-Visit Rural Spots In Japan For Visitors

Here is a list of the top 10 rural destinations worthy of visiting in Japan:

Shirakawa-go (Gifu)

Nestled in a remote valley surrounded by the rugged high mountain peaks of the Northern Japanese Alps, Shirakawa-go is a picturesque village that seems to have sprung straight from the pages of a fairy tale. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1995, it is celebrated for its distinctive gassho-zukuri farmhouses. This style of architecture, with its steep thatched roofs, is reminiscent of two hands brought together in prayer, which is the very essence of the word ‘gassho’.

These homes, with their steeply sloping roofs designed to withstand heavy snowfalls, are an architectural marvel and a testament to Japan’s ingenious traditional design. Their rustic charm is amplified by the intricate wooden beams, which are constructed without the use of nails. Each farmhouse stands as a symbol of the harmonious relationship the villagers of Shirakawa-go have nurtured with nature, adapting to and thriving in the harsh conditions of this secluded region.

The village’s landscape transforms with every season. The pristine white snow during winter turns these homes into magical snow domes, while spring brings forth a burst of cherry blossoms, painting the village in soft pinks. The lush greenery of summer gives way to a splendid display of autumn colors, making Shirakawa-go a year-round destination of mesmerizing beauty.

Activities:

• Seasonal Festivals: Shirakawa-go is renowned for its festivals that celebrate the unique culture and traditions of the region. One of the most iconic festivals is the Doburoku Festival , held at Shirakawa Hachiman Shrine. This festival celebrates the autumn harvest with performances, dances, and the serving of doburoku (a type of sake). Another not-to-be-missed spectacle is the Winter Light-Up event. During this time, the gassho-zukuri houses are illuminated, casting a warm, ethereal glow against the snowy backdrop, creating a dreamy, almost magical atmosphere.
• Traditional Guesthouses (Minshuku): Staying in a traditional gassho-zukuri house is an experience that transports visitors back in time. Many of these homes have been converted into minshuku, or traditional guesthouses. Here, guests can experience authentic Japanese hospitality, sleep on futons laid out on tatami mats, and savor home-cooked local dishes. Waking up in such an ambiance, especially when the village is veiled in morning mist or blanketed in snow, is truly surreal.
• Open Air Museums: The Gassho-zukuri Minkaen open-air museum offers a deep dive into the heritage of Shirakawa-go. Here, visitors can explore various relocated and preserved farmhouses, watch demonstrations of traditional crafts, and learn about the daily lives of the villagers in times gone by.
• Observation Decks: For those who wish to capture the panoramic beauty of Shirakawa-go, the Shiroyama Viewpoint is the place to be. This observation deck offers a bird’s eye view of the village, with its cluster of thatched roofs and the Shogawa River flowing gracefully in the backdrop.

In essence, Shirakawa-go is more than just a destination; it’s a journey into Japan’s rich architectural legacy, cultural traditions, and its people’s indomitable spirit. It stands as a reminder of the beauty that emerges when humans live in harmony with nature. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or a traveler in search of serenity, Shirakawa-go promises memories that will be cherished for a lifetime.

Noto Peninsula (Ishikawa)

Jutting out into the Sea of Japan, the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture is an untouched jewel, a place where the rhythm of the waves meets the echoes of history. Characterized by its rugged coastline, serene beaches, dense forests, and picturesque rice terraces, Noto offers a landscape that is both wild and invitingly serene.

As one of the most remote and rural regions in Japan, the peninsula has managed to preserve its age-old traditions, customs, and way of life. Its isolation, both geographical and cultural, is its strength. While the majestic cliffs and roaring waves represent the wild beauty of nature , the warm-hearted locals symbolize the undying spirit of a community that has weathered storms and celebrated sunrises for generations.

What’s captivating about the Noto Peninsula is the palpable sense of history. From the ancient salt-making techniques still practiced on its shores to the rustic, thatched-roof houses dotting its landscape, Noto stands as a testament to Japan’s enduring connection to its roots.

• Wajima Morning Market: As dawn breaks over the Noto Peninsula, the Wajima morning market, locally known as Wajima Asaichi , comes to life. This market has been a hub of activity for over a thousand years. Wander through its vibrant lanes, and you’ll be enveloped in a sensory experience: the fresh aroma of seafood caught just hours before, the vivid hues of locally-grown vegetables, and the inviting scent of freshly-prepared local delicacies. But beyond the produce, it’s the handcrafted lacquerware, known as Wajima-nuri , that steals the show. Meticulously crafted using age-old techniques, these pieces are a fusion of functionality and artistry, making them coveted souvenirs.
• Notojima Aquarium: Situated on Notojima Island, the Notojima Aquarium is a window into the marine world of the Sea of Japan. Home to over 40,000 marine creatures spanning 500 different species, it offers visitors a chance to marvel at the diverse aquatic life. From playful dolphins and graceful sea lions to the mesmerizing jellyfish displays, the aquarium is a celebration of marine biodiversity. Interactive programs, like the dolphin and sea lion shows, not only entertain but also educate visitors about the importance of marine conservation.
• Coastal Exploration: The rugged coastline of the Noto Peninsula is perfect for exploration. Sites like the Ganmon Rock, with its naturally carved sea cave, are a testament to the relentless power of nature. Additionally, the terraced rice fields of Shiroyone Senmaida, illuminated at night, offer a surreal landscape that juxtaposes man’s agricultural prowess with nature’s grandeur.
• Traditional Experiences: Delving into the age-old traditions of the Noto Peninsula can be a transformative experience. Witnessing the ancient salt-making methods at Agehama-style salt farms or participating in local festivals, such as the dynamic Kiriko festivals with their massive lantern floats, provide a deep connection to the region’s cultural tapestry.

In its essence, the Noto Peninsula is a sanctuary where time slows down, and the cacophony of the modern world fades away. It invites visitors to immerse themselves in its timeless beauty, indulge in its authentic experiences, and forge a bond with a land where traditions aren’t just remembered; they’re lived. Whether you’re standing on its cliffs with the sea breeze ruffling your hair or chatting with a local artisan in Wajima market, Noto ensures that its melodies linger in your heart long after you’ve left its shores.

Yakushima (Kagoshima)

Majestically rising from the azure waters of the East China Sea, south of Kyushu, lies Yakushima. A UNESCO World Heritage site since 1993, this verdant island is often referred to as the “Alps of the Ocean” due to its mountainous terrain. But beyond its topography, Yakushima’s true allure lies in its primordial cedar forests, some of which have stood tall and proud for thousands of years.

The island is cloaked in a rich tapestry of biodiversity, with the forests housing trees that have witnessed millennia, often referred to as “Yakusugi.” The most famous among them is the Jomon Sugi , a cedar tree believed to be over 7,000 years old. This ancient tree, with its gnarled bark and sprawling canopy, stands as a silent testament to the passage of time.

The island’s unique ecosystem is a result of its varied altitude, ranging from warm coastal areas to cooler mountainous regions. This gradient has endowed Yakushima with a fascinating array of flora and fauna, with subtropical and subalpine zones. As the mists roll in, they weave a gossamer blanket around the island, further enhancing its ethereal beauty and nurturing the moss-covered forests that seem straight out of a fantasy realm.

• Trekking: Yakushima is a trekker’s paradise. The trails here range from gentle walks amidst the cedar forests to challenging hikes up the island’s peaks. The path leading to the venerable Jomon Sugi is particularly popular, taking hikers through verdant landscapes and offering glimpses of the island’s ancient trees. Every step on these trails brings with it the aroma of the dense forest, the chirping of endemic birds, and the timeless aura of the ancient cedars.
• Visiting Waterfalls: The island’s abundant rainfall gives life to several stunning waterfalls. The Oko no Taki waterfall, one of the tallest and most majestic on the island, cascades gracefully, creating a misty spectacle. Another gem, the Senpiro no Taki , is framed by a vast granite backdrop, showcasing nature’s artistry at its finest. These waterfalls, with their pristine pools and surrounding greenery, offer tranquil spots for reflection and relaxation.
• Exploring the Coastline: While the forests are Yakushima’s crowning glory, its coastline is equally captivating. The coastal areas, with their unique rock formations and tide pools, provide an opportunity to witness marine life and appreciate the island’s geology. The ethereal Hirauchi Kaichu Onsen is a seaside hot spring that’s accessible only during low tide, offering bathers a therapeutic experience with panoramic ocean views.
• Wildlife Watching: The dense forests of Yakushima are home to the Yaku deer and Yaku macaque, both endemic to the island. Observing these creatures in their natural habitat, undisturbed by the urban sprawl, is a magical experience. The island’s biodiversity extends to its skies and streams, with varied bird species and creatures like the loggerhead turtle frequenting its shores.

Yakushima is where nature’s grandeur unfolds in every nook and cranny. It beckons travelers to disconnect from the outside world and form a deep connection with the earth and its ancient tales. From the whispers of the age-old cedars to the rhythmic cadence of its waterfalls, Yakushima offers a symphony of experiences that resonate with the soul and leave an indelible mark on the heart.

Nikko (Tochigi)

Situated in the mountainous heart of Tochigi Prefecture lies Nikko, an enchanting blend of rich history and breathtaking nature. For centuries, it has been a spiritual and cultural center, drawing pilgrims and travelers alike with its grandiose temples, serene landscapes, and the resonant mantra, “Never say ‘kekkou’ until you’ve seen Nikko,” meaning one should not use the word ‘beautiful’ until witnessing the beauty of this place.

Nikko’s historical significance is intertwined with its spiritual heritage. The mausoleums of the Tokugawa shoguns, surrounded by a complex of shrines, bear testimony to Japan’s feudal history, while the vast, pristine wilderness that envelopes these structures stands as a testament to nature’s eternal splendor. The juxtaposition of meticulously crafted wooden structures, adorned with intricate carvings and gold leaf, against the backdrop of towering cedar trees and the distant murmur of waterfalls encapsulates the harmonious coexistence of man and nature.

• Visiting Toshogu Shrine: At the heart of Nikko’s historical district stands the Toshogu Shrine, the final resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate that ruled Japan for over 250 years. The shrine complex is a masterpiece of Japanese craftsmanship and architectural prowess. With its lavishly decorated gates, like the renowned Yomeimon Gate, and intricate wood carvings, including the famous “See no evil, speak no evil, hear no evil” monkeys, Toshogu offers a journey into Japan’s rich past. Each detail, from the vibrant colors to the ornate sculptures, tells tales of power, devotion, and artistic innovation.
• Hiking around Lake Chuzenji: A short drive from the historic heart of Nikko takes you to the tranquil shores of Lake Chuzenji. Situated at the foot of Mount Nantai, this lake is a result of the mountain’s volcanic activity. Its calm, reflective waters provide a mirror to the changing seasons — cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, vibrant autumnal hues, and a serene snow-clad landscape in winter. Hiking trails around the lake offer varying levels of difficulty, catering to both casual walkers and avid trekkers. Along the way, landmarks like the Kegon Falls, one of Japan’s highest waterfalls, add to the scenic beauty, providing picturesque spots to pause and soak in the view.
• Exploring Nikko National Park: Beyond the lake lies the expansive Nikko National Park, a haven for nature enthusiasts . Dense forests, mountainous terrains, hot springs, and an array of flora and fauna await discovery. The park’s trails lead to hidden gems, from secluded shrines to panoramic viewpoints. For those seeking tranquility, the park’s serene landscapes, punctuated by the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves, provide a meditative escape.
• Experiencing Onsen Culture: After a day of exploration, there’s no better way to relax than by indulging in Nikko’s onsen (hot spring) culture. The therapeutic waters, rich in minerals and sourced from the region’s volcanic activity, promise rejuvenation for both body and soul.

Nikko is a symphony of history and nature. It invites travelers to traverse the corridors of time, to stand where shoguns once stood, and to witness the timeless beauty of nature that has inspired poets and artists for generations. Whether it’s the solemnity of a centuries-old ritual at Toshogu or the first light of dawn reflecting on Lake Chuzenji, Nikko offers moments of profound beauty and reflection.

Iya Valley (Tokushima)

Hidden deep within the mountainous folds of Tokushima Prefecture on Shikoku Island, the Iya Valley is a verdant oasis of tranquility, often referred to as one of Japan’s “Three Hidden Valleys.” Its isolation has preserved not just its pristine natural beauty, but also a way of life and traditions that have remained largely untouched by the rapid modernization witnessed elsewhere.

The valley, with its steep rocky cliffs and the emerald-hued Iya River flowing below, paints a picturesque landscape. But among the many natural wonders of Iya, the most iconic are its vine bridges. These bridges, originally constructed as a means to traverse the valley, are made using woven vines and are periodically rebuilt to ensure their strength. With wooden planks spaced intermittently, they sway gently when crossed, offering both an exhilarating experience and unparalleled views of the river below.

The legend goes that these bridges were built by the Heike clan, who fled to the valley after a defeat in the 12th century. Their choice of such a secluded refuge and the creation of these bridges, which could be easily cut down in the face of an invasion, speaks volumes of the valley’s strategic significance in ancient times.

• Hot Springs: The seclusion of Iya Valley is reflected in its onsen (hot spring) culture. Tucked away amidst nature, these springs offer a therapeutic experience. The mineral-rich waters, heated by the earth’s geothermal activity, are believed to have healing properties. Bathing in these springs, with the mountainous horizon in the backdrop and the sounds of nature all around, rejuvenates both the body and spirit. The Iya Onsen , accessed via a cable car that descends down a steep mountain slope, is particularly notable for its riverside location and breathtaking views.
• Oboke Gorge Boat Rides: Further enhancing the valley’s allure is the Oboke Gorge, carved by the Iya River over millennia. The sheer rock faces, interspersed with verdant vegetation, create a mesmerizing landscape. Navigating this beauty, traditional boat rides offer a unique perspective of the gorge. As the skilled boatmen steer through the gentle rapids, they share tales and legends of the region, making the ride both scenic and informative.
• Exploring Traditional Villages: Scattered throughout the valley are quaint villages that have retained their traditional charm. A visit to these hamlets offers insights into the valley’s history and the lifestyle of its inhabitants. The Iya Kazurabashi , the most famous of the vine bridges, is located near one such village, and crossing it is akin to stepping back in time.
• Hiking and Sightseeing: For those keen on exploring the valley’s terrains, numerous hiking trails crisscross the region. These paths, ranging from gentle walks to more challenging treks, lead to vantage points offering panoramic views of the valley. The Manikin Peeing Boy statue, perched on a cliff overlooking a deep gorge, is one of the valley’s quirky attractions, symbolizing the depth and sheer drop of the valley below.

The Iya Valley is a reminder of the timeless beauty and serenity that still exists in pockets of the world. It’s a place where the mists of the past seamlessly blend with the present, where every vine bridge crossed and every mountain trail traversed tells tales of legends, of battles lost and won, and of the indomitable spirit of nature and humanity. Whether it’s the warmth of the hot springs or the gentle sway of a boat ride in the Oboke Gorge, the valley offers a retreat for the soul, a place to disconnect and find one’s bearings amidst nature’s grandeur.

Kiso Valley (Nagano)

Located in the heart of the towering Japanese Alps, Kiso Valley in Nagano Prefecture is a portal to Japan’s illustrious past. Characterized by its lush landscapes, meandering rivers, and rich history, the valley stands as a testament to an era when foot travel was the primary means of long-distance transportation. But, perhaps most emblematic of this bygone epoch are the valley’s meticulously preserved post towns, especially Tsumago and Magome, which once served travelers on the historic Nakasendo trail.

The Nakasendo, translating to “The Road Through the Mountains,” was one of the five routes connecting Tokyo and Kyoto during the Edo period. Of its 69 post towns, Tsumago and Magome are the most atmospheric and well-preserved, seemingly frozen in time. As you walk through these towns, the wooden facades, lantern-lit pathways, and stone-paved streets transport you back to a time when samurai, merchants, and travelers roamed these paths. With the prohibition of modern-day intrusions like power lines and private cars, the authenticity of the Edo-period ambiance remains undisturbed.

• Hiking the Nakasendo Trail: Among the most rewarding experiences in Kiso Valley is hiking the scenic stretch of the Nakasendo between Tsumago and Magome. Spanning approximately 8 kilometers, this segment of the trail offers a meditative journey through centuries-old cypress and cedar forests, cascading waterfalls, and picturesque rice terraces. Marked by centuries-old way markers and punctuated with teahouses offering respite to modern-day travelers, the trail provides both a physical journey through nature and a temporal journey through history.
• Sampling Local Cuisine: The culinary delights of Kiso Valley are as rooted in its history as the post towns themselves. As you traverse the region, indulge in traditional dishes like Gohei-mochi – skewered and grilled rice cakes glazed with a sweet and savory walnut or miso sauce. Another must-try is Kiso soba , buckwheat noodles unique to the region, often served cold with a dipping sauce or hot in a broth, a testament to the valley’s agricultural heritage.
• Visiting Historical Attractions: Beyond the main post towns, the valley is dotted with historical sites and museums. The Waki-honjin in Tsumago offers insights into the accommodations provided to high-ranking officials during their travels. With its original structure preserved, a visit here offers a glimpse into the architectural and cultural nuances of the period.
• Engaging with Traditional Crafts: Kiso Valley is renowned for its woodworking tradition, especially the crafting of lacquerware. The deep-hued, meticulously crafted pieces, often inlaid with gold or silver, are a reflection of the region’s artisanal heritage. Engaging with local craftsmen, witnessing their intricate processes, and even procuring a piece as a keepsake, makes for a memorable experience.
• Experiencing Stay in a Ryokan: To fully immerse oneself in the ethos of Kiso Valley, a stay in a traditional ryokan (inn) is imperative. With tatami-matted rooms, communal onsen baths, and traditional meals served in-room, it offers a holistic experience of Japanese hospitality and a sense of tranquility that aligns seamlessly with the valley’s ambiance.

Kiso Valley, with its preserved post towns and historical trails, offers a rare juxtaposition of nature and history. It beckons travelers not just to witness but to experience a way of life that thrived centuries ago. Each step on the Nakasendo, each bite of the region’s delicacies, and every interaction with its age-old traditions serve as a bridge between the past and the present, making a visit to this valley a poetic journey through time.

Naoshima (Kagawa)

Tucked away amidst the azure waters of the Seto Inland Sea, Naoshima is a beguiling blend of nature’s majesty and human creativity. Often dubbed the “Art Island,” Naoshima stands as a vibrant testament to the transformative power of art. What was once a tranquil fishing island with a declining population has metamorphosed into an unparalleled global art hub, thanks to the vision of a few art aficionados and the collaboration between artists, architects, and the local community.

The island’s unique identity is shaped by its intriguing juxtaposition of contemporary art installations and traditional Japanese life. As you amble through its settlements, it’s not unusual to stumble upon avant-garde sculptures seamlessly integrating with the island’s natural topography or traditional houses transformed into art spaces. This organic fusion of art, architecture, and landscape not only redefined Naoshima’s narrative but also posed a profound meditation on the relationship between nature, art, and humanity.

• Exploring the Chichu Art Museum: Perhaps the most iconic of Naoshima’s art destinations, the Chichu Art Museum, designed by the renowned architect Tadao Ando, is a masterclass in architectural innovation. Entirely subterranean, the museum utilizes natural light to illuminate its exhibits, ensuring that the viewing experience changes with the shifting position of the sun. The museum houses works by eminent artists such as Claude Monet, James Turrell, and Walter De Maria. Beyond the artworks, the museum itself is an artistic marvel, with its geometric forms and play of light and shadow offering a transformative experience.
• Beach Hopping: Naoshima’s beaches are a confluence of sandy shores and artistic flair. The most famous, Benesse House Beach , is punctuated with artworks that invite interaction. From the whimsical yellow pumpkin by Yayoi Kusama to the playful sculptures that pepper the landscape, each installation enhances the beach’s allure. These beaches provide both relaxation and contemplation, as the waves and art converse in silent harmony.
• Visiting the Benesse House Museum: An integration of a museum and a hotel, the Benesse House Museum showcases a diverse collection of contemporary art from both Japanese and international artists. Each piece is thoughtfully placed, ensuring that the art, architecture, and surrounding environment resonate with each other. Staying at the Benesse House allows visitors to immerse themselves fully in the art experience, with artworks extending from the museum into the rooms and surrounding areas.
• Exploring Art Houses and Installations: The Art House Project transformed abandoned houses and workshops into art installations. Scattered across the island, these spaces blur the boundaries between everyday life and art. Each house offers a unique encounter, be it the serene ambiance of Minamidera, which houses a James Turrell light installation, or the reflective waters of the Go’o Shrine.
• Riding the Art Buses: Naoshima’s local buses, adorned with colorful polka dots, reflect the island’s artistic ethos. Beyond their functional role of transporting visitors between key destinations, they add a touch of whimsy to the island’s landscape.
• Sampling Local Delicacies: While art is the soul of Naoshima, its culinary offerings provide a flavorful counterpart. The local cafes and eateries, some housed in artfully designed spaces, offer delicacies like fresh seafood from the Seto Inland Sea, ensuring that the island’s artistic journey also satiates the palate.

Naoshima challenges the traditional paradigms of where and how art should be displayed. It invites visitors to not just observe art but to live it — to feel the sun as it plays on a Monet, to hear the waves as they serenade a sculpture, and to contemplate art’s space in our lives and landscapes. It’s an island where every sunset paints a canvas and where the line between man-made and natural beauty is delightfully blurred.

Aso (Kumamoto)

Located in the heart of Kyushu, Aso in Kumamoto Prefecture is a testament to nature’s raw and magnificent power. Dominating the landscape is Mount Aso, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, which has shaped the region’s geography, history, and culture over countless millennia. The vast caldera, spanning approximately 120 kilometers in circumference, is one of the largest in the world, and within its expansive embrace lie thriving towns, fertile plains, and the resplendent Aso-san, the central volcanic complex.

Aso’s landscape is a testament to both the destructive and nurturing powers of volcanism. While eruptions have carved its rugged terrains and left ash-laden layers, they have also blessed the region with mineral-rich soils, making it an agricultural haven. The juxtaposition of verdant pastures, undulating hills, and the ever-smoldering crater offers a dramatic landscape that captivates both the eye and the soul.

• Hiking: Aso offers myriad hiking opportunities that cater to both novice walkers and seasoned trekkers. The trails around the outer rim of the caldera offer panoramic views of the expansive interior, while those venturing closer to the central crater are rewarded with views of fuming vents and the cerulean-blue Komezuka, a beautifully symmetrical volcanic cone. Each path provides unique vantage points of Aso’s multifaceted beauty, from its lush grasslands to its smoky summits.
• Visiting Aso Volcano Museum: Delving deep into the geology, history, and cultural significance of Mount Aso, the Aso Volcano Museum offers a comprehensive understanding of the region’s volcanic activity. Interactive exhibits detail the formation of the caldera, the different types of eruptions, and the flora and fauna nurtured by this unique ecosystem. A visit here not only educates but also offers context to the landscape visitors witness, making it an essential stop for those keen on understanding the intricacies of this geothermal marvel.
• Exploring the Aso Shrine: A symbol of the region’s spiritual heritage, the Aso Shrine is believed to be over 2,500 years old and pays homage to the deity of Aso-san. Though the original structures were damaged in earthquakes, the restored shrine continues to be a beacon of the region’s cultural and spiritual identity. Festivals, rituals, and ceremonies here often intertwine with the volcanic landscape, reflecting the deep reverence and respect the locals have for the mountain’s power.
• Horse Riding: The grassy plains of the caldera, known locally as Kusasenri, offer a unique equestrian experience. Riding amidst this vast green expanse, with the looming presence of the volcanic peaks in the backdrop, is both tranquil and invigorating. The gentle trot of the horses complements the serene ambiance, making it a favorite activity for those looking to experience Aso’s beauty at a leisurely pace.
• Sampling Local Cuisine: The mineral-rich soils of Aso, nurtured by centuries of volcanic activity, yield crops of exceptional quality. Delight in local specialties like Akaushi (Aso beef), celebrated for its tenderness and flavor, or savor the freshness of locally grown vegetables in a traditional hot pot. The region’s culinary offerings are a reflection of its fertile landscapes, ensuring that every meal is a flavorful journey through its terrains.

Aso is a celebration of nature in its most primal form. It’s a place where the earth rumbles, where steam hisses from crevices, and where life thrives in the shadow of a smoldering giant. It’s a reminder of our planet’s dynamic core, of the forces that shape our world, and of the delicate balance between destruction and creation. Whether you’re gazing into the depths of a crater or savoring the bounty of the land, Aso offers an encounter with nature that’s both humbling and exhilarating.

Kamakura (Kanagawa)

Nestled between the sparkling waters of Sagami Bay and the verdant hills of Kanagawa, Kamakura is a delightful blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty. Once the de facto capital of Japan during the Kamakura Shogunate, this coastal city has retained its historical charm and continues to beckon visitors with its array of venerable temples, storied shrines, and serene landscapes. The city’s timeline, spanning centuries, is palpably felt in its cobbled streets, ancient structures, and the tales whispered by the towering trees that have stood sentinel through ages.

A significant chapter of Japan’s feudal history was written here, and its legacy manifests in the myriad architectural wonders and cultural landmarks. But beyond its illustrious past, Kamakura is also a tale of timeless beauty – of cherry blossoms painting landscapes, of the majestic Buddha casting his benevolent gaze, and of the waves serenading its sandy shores.

• Visiting the Kotoku-in Temple: Home to the iconic Great Buddha (Daibutsu), the Kotoku-in Temple is a must-visit pilgrimage for any traveler in Kamakura. This colossal bronze statue, standing over 11 meters tall, is not only a marvel of ancient craftsmanship but also an embodiment of serenity and introspection. Cast in the 13th century, the Daibutsu braved earthquakes and tsunamis, its tranquil expression unaltered by the tests of time. Visitors can even venture inside the statue, witnessing the intricate interior framework that supports this massive icon.
• Beach Strolls: Kamakura’s coastline is a delightful tapestry of sandy beaches and azure waters. Yuigahama and Zaimokuza Beaches are popular retreats, especially in the summer months. Strolling along the shoreline, with the rhythmic cadence of waves accompanying one’s thoughts, is a therapeutic experience. As the sun sets, these beaches morph into vibrant hubs, with cafes, food stalls, and surfers savoring the ocean’s embrace.
• Hiking in Kamakura’s Hills: The city’s hills, carpeted in dense forests and crisscrossed by ancient trails, are a hiker’s paradise. One of the most popular trails is the Daibutsu Hiking Course, connecting the Kotoku-in Temple to the Kuzuharaoka Shrine. Along the way, travelers are treated to panoramic views, secluded temples, and the serene ambiance of nature. The trail, echoing with birdsong and the whispers of ancient trees, is a journey through both nature and history.
• Exploring Other Temples and Shrines: Kamakura boasts a plethora of spiritual sanctuaries. The Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, with its vibrant torii gates and serene lotus ponds, stands as a testament to the city’s Shinto heritage. Engaku-ji and Kencho-ji, Zen Buddhist temples, invite contemplation with their pristine gardens, koi-filled ponds, and age-old structures.
• Savoring Local Delicacies: Kamakura’s culinary landscape is as diverse as its history. From traditional Japanese sweets like Hato Sable (dove-shaped cookies) to fresh seafood caught from Sagami Bay, the city offers a gastronomic journey that tantalizes the palate. Street food stalls, especially around Komachi Street, serve everything from squid ink ice cream to savory rice crackers.
• Bamboo Grove at Hokokuji Temple: A lesser-known gem, the Hokokuji Temple, is often referred to as the ‘Bamboo Temple’. Beyond its main hall lies a mesmerizing bamboo grove, where slender bamboo stalks soar towards the sky, creating a canopy of green. A walk here, with the sun filtering through the bamboo and the soft rustling of leaves, is a meditative experience, further enhanced by a cup of traditional matcha tea served within the temple premises.

Kamakura, with its juxtaposition of the ancient and the timeless, offers a respite from the frenetic pace of urban life. It’s a place where the past dialogues with the present, where nature intertwines with history, and where every corner, be it a temple alcove or a beachside cafe, narrates tales of bygone eras and eternal beauty.

Takayama (Gifu)

Takayama, often referred to as “Little Kyoto” due to its beautifully preserved historical streets, is a delightful town situated in the mountainous Hida region of Gifu Prefecture. Its charm is encapsulated in its old town, where narrow lanes, lined with Edo-period (1603-1868) wooden merchants’ houses, craft shops, and sake breweries, transport visitors back to a bygone era. The town’s location, ensconced amid the Japanese Alps, provides a picturesque backdrop, further accentuating its historical allure. The fusion of natural beauty with cultural richness makes Takayama an embodiment of the quintessential Japanese experience, seamlessly blending the past’s rustic elegance with nature’s serenity.

The air here carries the gentle scent of cedar, while the soundscape is a serene melody of rustling leaves, distant temple bells, and the soft murmurings of the Miyagawa River that flows gently through the town. Takayama, with its slower pace and rich tapestry of traditions, offers an escape from modern urbanity, reminding visitors of the nuanced beauty of simplicity and heritage.

• Exploring Sanmachi Street: The heart of Takayama’s historic district, Sanmachi Street, is a living museum of the Edo period. This well-preserved area consists of three narrow lanes filled with wooden buildings, sake breweries, boutiques, and cafes. Each structure, with its lattice-fronted facades and carved wooden accents, narrates tales of the town’s merchant history. As visitors meander through the lanes, they can sample local specialties, from Hida beef skewers to sake tastings offered by age-old breweries. Each step taken on the stone-paved paths is a step back in time, making Sanmachi Street an immersive historical journey.
• Visiting Morning Markets: Takayama’s morning markets, particularly the Jinya-mae and Miyagawa markets, are a vibrant testament to the region’s agricultural bounty. Local farmers and artisans gather every morning, offering a myriad of fresh produce, homemade pickles, crafts, and delightful snacks. The markets, with their lively ambiance and colorful displays, offer a delightful sensory experience, allowing visitors to engage with the local community and savor the region’s flavors.
• Hida Folk Village: A short distance from the town center lies the Hida Folk Village (Hida no Sato), an open-air museum showcasing traditional mountain farming life. Over 30 authentic gassho-zukuri (thatched-roof) farmhouses, salvaged and relocated from remote areas, dot the landscape. Each structure, with its steeply pitched roofs designed to withstand heavy snowfalls, offers insights into regional architecture and rural life. Demonstrations of traditional crafts, such as weaving and lacquer work, further enrich the experience, allowing visitors to engage with Japan’s age-old artistry.
• Savoring Hida Beef: Takayama is renowned for its Hida beef, a marbled delicacy that rivals Kobe beef in flavor and tenderness. Many local restaurants offer dishes showcasing this regional specialty, from succulent steaks to melt-in-the-mouth sushi. Dining in Takayama often becomes a culinary journey, where each bite resonates with the rich flavors of the Hida region.
• Exploring Temples and Shrines: Beyond its historic streets, Takayama is home to numerous temples and shrines, each radiating spiritual tranquillity. The Takayama Jinya, once a government house, now stands as a museum detailing the town’s administrative history. The nearby Shiroyama Park, apart from offering panoramic views of the town, is dotted with several temples and shrines, providing a tranquil setting for contemplation.
• Attending Takayama Festivals: If timed right, visitors can witness Takayama’s renowned festivals, held in spring and autumn. These festivals, with their ornate floats, puppet performances, and processions, are a vibrant display of the town’s cultural heritage, drawing visitors from across the globe.

Takayama, with its juxtaposition of the historical and the natural, is more than just a destination—it’s an experience. Whether one is strolling along Sanmachi, sipping sake beneath wooden eaves, or marveling at the architectural splendor of gassho-zukuri houses, the town weaves a spell, encapsulating the soul of Japan in its cobbled paths and timbered facades.

Tips for Traveling in Rural Japan

Public transportation considerations:.

• Schedules and Timing: While Japan is renowned for its punctual and efficient public transport system, rural areas may have less frequent services than metropolitan cities. It’s imperative to check schedules in advance, especially the last train or bus timings, to avoid being stranded.
• Japan Rail Pass: For those planning to travel extensively by train, consider investing in a Japan Rail Pass. It offers unlimited travel on JR trains over consecutive days, making it economical and convenient for tourists. Note that this must be purchased before arriving in Japan.
• Local Passes and Cards: Some regions offer their own travel passes for unlimited or discounted travel within a specific area. Researching these options can lead to savings. Additionally, IC cards like Suica and Pasmo, which are used in urban areas for seamless transactions, might be accepted in some rural transportation networks.
• Language Barrier: While urban transport often has announcements in English, rural areas might not. Having a translation app or a phrasebook can be beneficial. Additionally, taking screenshots of your destinations in Japanese can help in asking for directions.

Etiquette and Respect for Local Traditions:

• Behavior at Shrines and Temples: Before entering sacred places, observe and follow local customs. This might include cleansing at a purification fountain, bowing, or refraining from loud conversations. Some areas might also require removing shoes before entering.
• Photography: Always ask for permission before taking photos, especially in rural areas where residents might not be accustomed to tourists. Some religious sites and private properties may also have restrictions on photography.
• Dress Appropriately: Especially when visiting religious sites, dressing modestly is appreciated. This can mean covering shoulders and wearing longer skirts or trousers.
• Avoid Littering: Japan is known for its cleanliness, and trash bins might be rare. Always carry a small bag to keep your trash and dispose of it at your accommodation or when you find an appropriate disposal area.
• Local Norms: Each region might have its own set of customs. For instance, in onsen (hot spring) towns, it’s common to see people walking around in yukatas (casual summer kimono). Embracing these traditions can enhance your experience.

Best Seasons to Visit Each Destination:

• Shirakawa-go (Gifu): Best visited during winter when the gassho-style houses are blanketed in snow, creating a picturesque winter wonderland. Alternatively, autumn offers a palette of colors with the changing foliage.
• Noto Peninsula (Ishikawa): Spring and autumn are ideal for enjoying the coastal beauty without the summer crowds or winter chills.
• Yakushima (Kagoshima): Late spring, when the island’s rhododendrons are in bloom, or autumn, for cooler trekking conditions.
• Nikko (Tochigi): Autumn is renowned for its brilliant fall colors, making it a popular season. However, spring offers cherry blossoms juxtaposed against historic structures.
• Iya Valley (Tokushima) & Kiso Valley (Nagano): Both valleys are particularly stunning in autumn with their vibrant foliage. Spring is also a lovely time with fresh greenery and blooming flowers.
• Naoshima (Kagawa): Spring and autumn are pleasant for outdoor art exploration, avoiding the summer heat and the winter chill.
• Aso (Kumamoto): Spring, when the Aso caldera’s vast grasslands are lush and green, or autumn, when hues of brown and gold dominate the landscape.
• Kamakura (Kanagawa) & Takayama (Gifu): Both destinations are attractive year-round. However, spring offers cherry blossoms, and autumn brings vibrant fall colors. Takayama also has its famous festivals in these seasons.

Traveling in rural Japan offers a deeper dive into the nation’s heart and soul. While it requires a bit more planning and sensitivity towards local norms, the rewards in terms of experiences and memories are unparalleled. Embrace the journey with an open heart, respect for traditions, and a genuine desire to connect, and rural Japan will unfold its wonders in myriad, unforgettable ways.

Conclusion: Rural Destinations In Japan

In an age of modern marvels and fast-paced urban life, there exists a call to the heart, a beckoning towards the simpler, quieter, and often overlooked corners of the world. Japan, known for its neon-lit streets of Tokyo and the bustling life of Osaka, also cradles within its embrace regions of pristine beauty, resonating tales of old, and landscapes that soothe the soul. These places, nestled away from the public eye and the rush of urbanity, await the discerning traveler, promising experiences unlike any other.

To journey through the Japanese countryside is to walk through the annals of time, to touch and be touched by a culture that has been centuries in the making. It’s a chance to not just see, but to feel – the subtle gust of wind through ancient cedar forests, the warmth of sunlight dappled through autumn leaves, the silent stories whispered by wooden edifices of old towns. Such travels go beyond the mere act of ‘visiting’ – they transform into profound narratives of personal discovery, of moments captured and cherished.

Japanese Countryside: Final Thoughts

In every hidden valley, along every winding trail, beside each murmuring stream, lies an invitation. An invitation to detach from the digital screens that dominate our daily lives, to look beyond the veneer of modernity, and to connect deeply with a world that offers unadulterated authenticity. It’s here, amidst the untouched beauty of Japan’s countryside, that you find not just picturesque vistas but also pieces of yourself, rekindling a love for simplicity and nature.

But it’s not just the scenic beauty that defines the allure of rural Japan. It’s the people, the guardians of tradition, who with their heartwarming smiles and age-old customs make every interaction memorable. It’s the local festivals, where every dance step and float narrates tales of bygone eras. It’s the food, prepared with ingredients that bear the essence of the very land you tread upon, offering flavors as genuine as the hospitality with which they’re served.

And so, as the final chapter of this guide draws to its conclusion, a heartfelt entreaty remains – to venture forth into the verdant stretches of Japan’s countryside, to immerse oneself fully and without reservation. For in doing so, you unlock a treasure trove of experiences, memories that will be etched into the heart, long after the journey ends. Each footstep taken on this path not only unveils the magic of rural Japan but also reaffirms a universal truth: that sometimes, the most enchanting stories and experiences lie waiting in the most unexpected places.

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Towns in Japan Countryside: 7 Best Unique Villages to Visit

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Without a doubt, Japan is one of the most beautiful countries to visit. It’s a country that flourishes with culture, is rich in history, and boasts gorgeous scenery everywhere – including the countryside!

In this blog post, we will explore the towns and villages in the Japanese countryside, each with its own unique characteristics. These are the sights you wouldn’t want to miss when you visit Japan.

For each town discussed, you will learn about their unique features and the activities you can engage in. To help you navigate and visit these locations easily, I’ve added links to Google Maps and their official websites.

This post contains affiliate links. I may receive a tiny commission at no additional cost to you.

Use the table of contents to skip to topics.

Check out my other articles about Japan.

Planning a trip to the beautiful countryside of Japan? Here’s where you can find the best hotel deals .

1. Ine – The town also known as the Venice of Japan

For a unique experience in Japan, consider visiting the countryside town of Ine. This charming village is located in the northernmost part of Kyoto Prefecture, touching the Sea of Japan.

Ine offers a glimpse of boathouses lining the bay, creating a picturesque scene. Known for its fantastic accommodation and unique historical perspective, Ine welcomes every visitor with its distinctive charm.

What sets the town of Ine apart? The answer lies in the unique boathouses known as Funaya. These wooden structures, appearing as if they’re floating on the sea, have seawater lapping at their doorsteps.

Funaya serve a dual purpose for the villagers and fishermen residing in Ine. The first floor of each Funaya acts as a dock for their boats, while the second floor provides their living quarters.

The beauty of these houses is amplified by their reflections on the water, especially when illuminated by sunlight. The sight of Funayas lining the shore creates a scene unlike any other. This distinctive landscape is the reason why Ine has been designated as an Important Preservation District of Historic Buildings in Japan.

Wondering what to do in the town of Ine? Here are some suggestions:

• Start by treating yourself to a delicious seafood meal at Funaya Shokudo or the Boathouse Cafe. As you dine, you’ll enjoy excellent views of the surroundings.
• Next, consider hiring an Ine Bay Marine Taxi or taking a boat tour. This will give you an up-close look at the Funaya, the unique boathouses that define the town.
• Finally, make your way to Funaya no Sato Park. This park features an observation deck that offers a panoramic view of the town and the nearby waters.

Check out  Ine’s location on Google Maps | Official website of Ine

2. Yoshino – The town best to see cherry blossoms

Yoshino, nestled in the northern part of Yoshino District in Nara prefecture, is a town surrounded by mountains. Thousands of cherry blossoms can be found here, with Mount Yoshino, located nearby, being particularly abundant.

The journey from Yoshino town to Yoshino Mountain is a brief bus ride from the town center. However, some visitors choose to hike the mountain. The climb is easy, with beautiful cherry blossoms lining the trail.

If time permits, why not opt for a hike? It’s a healthy activity that allows you to enjoy the cherry blossoms, especially in spring when they are in full bloom.

Yoshino is a haven of flowers, a must-visit place in Japan during the spring. The town serves as the entrance to Mount Yoshino, which, as per data, houses 30,000 trees with 200 varieties of sakura that bloom spectacularly each year.

An eight-kilometer trail begins from the town center and stretches along the northern face of Mount Yoshino, divided into four sections. Each section historically had 1000 trees, but the numbers may have increased now!

The four sections of Yoshino are:

• Shimo Senbon – The lower section
• Naka Senbon – The middle section
• Kami Senbon – The upper section
• Oku Senbon – The innermost section at the mountain’s peak

As the cherry trees are at varying altitudes, they bloom at different times during the spring season. This staggered blooming provides ample opportunity to view the cherry blossoms without the usual crowds.

• Spend time under the pink and white cherry and sakura blossoms at the Hanayagura Observatory in the Kami Senbon area. Pack some blankets and enjoy a picnic amidst the stunning pink landscape.
• Take a leisurely stroll to the cafes in the lower area of Shimo Senbon, just a 30-minute walk from Yoshino station. Here, you can witness valleys blanketed with cherry blossoms and sakura.
• Explore the scenic shrines adorned with cherry blossoms. There are numerous mountain temples to visit, including Yoshimizu Shrine, Kinpusen-Ji Temple, and the ancient Nyoirin-Ji Temple.

See the location of  Yoshino Town on Google Maps | Official website of Nara

3. Tsurui – The Soundscape town of Hokkaido Japan

Recognized as one of Japan’s 100 soundscapes, Tsurui offers a respite from noise pollution, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the sounds of nature.

This town in the eastern part of Hokkaido in the Kushiro subprefecture is a breeding ground for red-crowned cranes, their presence adding to the tranquil ambiance of Tsurui.

But the red-crowned cranes are not the only attraction. Tsurui also features panoramic, walkable wetlands. Come summer, the hills near the town transform into a vibrant green landscape. This is when visitors get a glimpse of Japan’s authentic countryside, complete with dairy farms dotting the fields.

Tsurui stands out from other towns in Japan because of its the animals.

This town is known for its population of the red-crowned crane, considered the world’s rarest crane species. These cranes, also referred to as Tancho or Manchurian Cranes, hold significant symbolic value for the Japanese.

In Japanese culture, red-crowned cranes represent happiness, marital fidelity, love, and longevity. This symbolism is so profound that the crane is featured in the logo of Japan Airlines.

• Start your journey at the Nature Center. Here, you can find an information desk, watch informative presentations about the cranes, view an art exhibit, and enjoy a hot cup of coffee. This is your first step in learning about the Tancho Cranes.
• Next, head to the observation area. Binoculars are available for you to borrow, allowing you to observe the birds from a distance yet feel as if they’re within reach.
• During the summer, immerse yourself in Tsurui’s agricultural scene at the ranch-style restaurant and hotel, Heart’n Tree. Stay in a cottage surrounded by verdant fields, savor local cuisine, and participate in cheesemaking and other culinary classes.
• Also, in the summer, visit Japan’s expansive marshland starting from the Onnenai Visitor Center. Take a stroll along a wooden platform that cuts through fields brimming with fen plants, Japanese alder trees, and cotton grass. This area is also home to the red-crowned crane, Ezo red fox, Siberian salamander, and Yezo deer, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts.

See  Tsurui’s location from Google Maps | Official website of Tsurui (Japanese)

4. Biei – The Town with Rainbow Fields

Biei, another charming town in Hokkaido, is located in the Kamikawa subprefecture. Known for its picturesque landscapes, it has been featured on national television multiple times.

The town is divided into two areas. Patchwork Road, the northwestern part of Biei, offers visitors a chance to experience scenic rural landscapes throughout the year.

On the other hand, Panorama Road lives up to its name by providing visitors with sweeping views of the hills and farms. It’s a sight that leaves a lasting impression on anyone who visits.

Biei is a town that boasts hectares of fields teeming with a variety of blooming flowers. French Marigolds, Poppies, Sunflowers, Lupins, and Iris Germanica are just some of the plants that blanket Biei’s gently rolling hills in a vibrant spectrum of colors.

For those who appreciate the beauty of flowers, Biei is an ideal destination. It’s also a great place to capture that impressive Instagram shot that’s sure to captivate your followers.

• The must-see is the Hokusei Hill Observatory. Housed within a pyramid-shaped structure, it offers stunning views of the Zeburu Hills and Biei’s fields. It also doubles as a flower park, which you can explore on foot or by electric cart.
• Consider renting a bike or car to traverse Biei. There’s nothing quite like admiring the flower fields at your own pace.
• Step into Takushinkan, a gallery showcasing photos of Biei and other picturesque landscapes in Japan.
• At Shikisai Hill, rent and ride a golf cart or hop on a tractor-pulled wagon for a fun and enjoyable tour of the flower and lavender farms.
• Visit Farm Tomita and marvel at the sight of hills blanketed in purple. Enjoy the scent of lavender, especially during the full bloom that lasts for ten days starting in mid-July.
• Experience tranquility at Aoiike – Shirogane Blue Pond. A visit to this blueish-white pond, surrounded by a withered birch forest, offers a unique and captivating experience beyond exploring the fields.

Check out  Biei’s location on Google Maps | Official website of Biei

5. Magome – A mountain town with old traditional houses

In days gone by, a route known as Nakasendo served as a vital link between Kyoto and Tokyo. Given the length and difficulty of the journey, post towns began to emerge along this route, providing weary travelers with much-needed rest and accommodation.

One such place where these post towns were established is the Kiso Valley, which Nakasendo traverses. Among these towns was Magome. However, over time, many of these towns have disappeared, unable to withstand the passage of time. Today, only a handful remain, with Magome being one of the fortunate few that have endured.

In today’s political landscape of Japan, Magome is part of the Nakatsugawa district in Gifu prefecture. Its role has changed significantly, as it no longer serves travelers in the way it once did, with highways and trains now being the preferred modes of transport between cities.

Despite these changes, Magome continues to draw in thousands of visitors. The town’s captivating scenery, characterized by traditional wooden houses, cobblestone paths, and picturesque mountains, offers a glimpse into the past. This nostalgic charm and the opportunity to satisfy their wanderlust continue to attract visitors to this day.

Magome’s high elevation, cobblestone paths, and wooden houses evoke a sense of awe and nostalgia for visitors, transporting them back to a different era in Japan.

While other locations, such as Kyoto, feature similar architectural styles and cobblestone walkways, it’s the mountain views that set Magome apart. The sight of these majestic peaks adds a unique element to the town’s charm.

• Embark on a hike along the ancient Nakasendo trail from Magome to Tsumago. This journey offers panoramic views of mountains, waterfalls, waterwheels, and shrines.
• Explore Shimizuya Shiryokan, where a gallery displays the personal belongings of Magome’s citizens. Discover a variety of items, including scrolls, clothing, and pottery.
• Pay a visit to the Toson Memorial Museum and Tsuchimaya Shiryokan. These museums house the works of Shimazaki Toson, a celebrated writer who was born in Magome.
• Immerse yourself in the history of Magome at the Wakihonjin Museum. This small museum features a gallery that provides insight into life in the old Nakasendo post town.

See  Magome’s location in Google Maps | Official Website of Japan Tourism

6. Hakuba – The town with the best view of the Japanese Alps

Hakuba, nestled in the Northern Alps of Nagano prefecture, is renowned for its numerous ski resorts. As per 2019 statistics, the town had a modest population of just 9000 permanent residents. However, during peak seasons, the influx of transient visitors surpasses the number of permanent inhabitants.

The town’s appeal lies in its mountain slopes, which cater to skiers of all skill levels. It’s an ideal destination for anyone, particularly those keen on trying skiing for the first time.

For some, like myself, skiing is just one of the attractions of Hakuba. The real draw is the opportunity to sightsee in the Japanese Alps. It’s the kind of place where one could spend an entire day simply gazing at the mountains, coffee in hand. The Northern Alps are home to some of Japan’s highest peaks, reaching elevations of 3000 meters.

Hakuba’s close proximity to the Northern Japanese Alps sets it apart from other small towns in Japan. Its numerous ski resorts are a major draw, but the breathtaking mountain views from the town itself are equally compelling, underscoring Hakuba’s unique charm.

The quality of snow in Hakuba is another distinguishing feature. Often described as “powder snow,” it’s considered some of the finest in Japan. This exceptional snow quality was one of the reasons Hakuba was selected as a host site for a previous Winter Olympics.

• Skiing is a popular choice during winter and early spring, with the slopes of the Japanese Northern Alps providing an ideal setting.
• For a bird’s eye view of the mountains, consider taking a hot air balloon ride. This activity offers a unique perspective of the stunning landscape.
• If you’re seeking a more thrilling aerial experience, paragliding is also an option.
• Hakuba’s nearby river presents an opportunity for river rafting, a fun way to test your skills against the current.
• If you have some extra time, why not try fishing in the fresh waters of the rivers that originate from the mountains?
• For the adventurous, canyoneering offers a chance to jump into vibrant blue waters from a cliff and test your scrambling skills.
• If you prefer a more relaxing water sport, canoeing could be just what you’re looking for.

See  Hakuba’s location in Google Maps | Official website of Hakuba

7. Shirakawa – The fairytale town of Japan

Shirakawa, often referred to as a “hidden” village due to its secluded location, is a gem in the heart of Japan. This cultural treasure was recognized as a World Cultural Heritage Site in 1995.

Located in the Ono district of Gifu Prefecture in western Japan, Shirakawa is nestled within the Ryohaku Mountains. It’s known for experiencing the heaviest snowfall in Japan each year, a characteristic that has shaped its charm and appeal.

The harsh winter conditions led the residents of Shirakawa to construct robust houses capable of withstanding the heavy snowfall. While these houses were initially built out of necessity, their unique architectural style has turned them into a tourist attraction.

The combination of these picturesque houses and the natural beauty of Shirakawa creates a scene reminiscent of a movie or fairy tale. It’s a sight that is sure to captivate the heart of any true wanderer.

The distinctive “Gabled Gassho Style” houses contribute to Shirakawa’s uniqueness. These houses, with their triangular shapes reminiscent of an open book resting on its covers, are a defining feature of the village. This design enables the houses to withstand the heavy snowfall that Shirakawa experiences, preventing snow from accumulating on the roofs.

The serene natural surroundings enhance the village’s cozy atmosphere. The beauty of the town is even more striking when viewed from a nearby vantage point. In my opinion, Shirakawa surpasses even the hobbit village in New Zealand in terms of its charm and character.

• Visit the Wada house, the largest gassho-style house in Shirakawa. This house features a garden, fields, and waterways. On the second floor, you can explore artifacts and items that belonged to the Wada Family.
• Explore a Monk’s residence at Myonzenji Temple, known for its yew tree and bell tower gate.
• Discover more about Shirakawa Village at the Gasshozukuri Minkaen Outdoor Museum.
• Take in a panoramic view of the town from two vantage points: the Tenshukaku Castle Keep Observatory and the Ogimachi Castle Ruin Observation Area.
• Immerse yourself in the local culture at Tajima House. Here, you can learn about how the people of Shirakawa thrived with silk culture as their primary industry.

See  Shirakawa’s location in Google Maps | Official website of Shirakawa

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SEE THE BEST OF RURAL JAPAN IN THESE BREATHTAKINGLY GORGEOUS PLACES ACROSS THE LAND OF THE RISING SUN!

We might be a little biased, but we believe the most beautiful places in the world are in Japan! In the land of the rising sun's countryside, you can experience the passing of the seasons as they paint the lands with spring flowers, autumn leaves, snowy winter scenery, and emerald summers. If you're a nature lover, you can't miss these cities and sightseeing destinations in rural Japan on your next vacation.

1. MOUNT FUJI AND HAKONE - A DAY TRIP FROM TOKYO TO JAPAN’S COUNTRYSIDE

If you don’t have a lot of time, but need an escape from Tokyo , take a day trip to Hakone . One of the best things to do in this little town is to ride the Hakone Ropeway up to Owakudani Valley. On the way up, you’ll get a breathtaking view of Mount Fuji . The climbing season for Mount Fuji is from July to September when the snow melts. Those who brave the summit usually start at Mount Fuji’s 5th Station at night so that they can greet the sun at the peak. If hiking in the dark doesn’t sound appealing, you can rest in a mountain hut.

2. HELLS OF BEPPU HOT SPRINGS - A DESIGNATED NATIONAL SITE OF SCENIC BEAUTY IN OITA, JAPAN

The “Hells” of Beppu are seven gorgeous natural hot springs, which are for viewing and not bathing . You might not feel at one with nature here as the Hells attract visitors from all over the world, but the trails are accessible for any age and ability. One of the prettiest Hells is Umi Jigoku, which is a pond of boiling blue water surrounded by spacious gardens , orange hot springs, and lotus flowers .

3. ITSUKUSHIMA SHRINE ON MIYAJIMA ISLAND - THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PLACE TO VISIT IN HIROSHIMA PREFECTURE

Established by Taira no Kiyomori in 1168, Itsukushima Shrine is best known for its iconic “floating” torii gate and cherry blossoms . After visiting the shrine , take the time to explore the abundant nature and untouched forests of Miyajima Island . You can also climb Mount Misen on one of three hiking trails and take in the view of Hiroshima Bay.

4. SHIRAKAWAGO - A UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE WHERE YOU CAN STAY THE NIGHT

One-hundred-eighty farmhouses make up Shirakawago Village . What separates these from other ancient homes in Japan are their distinctive thatched roofs, which come together like hands in prayer. This so-called gassho-zukuri architecture made it possible for farmers to live through the region’s harsh winters centuries ago. Now, you too can experience staying in this type of house as about a dozen are open for travelers to book.

5. TAKACHIHO GORGE IN MIYAZAKI JAPAN - A NATURAL WONDER OF THE WORLD

Sheer cliffs on the Gokase River make the narrow chasm of the Takachiho Gorge —the treasure of Miyazaki Prefecture. If you rent a rowboat, you’ll come across the cascading Minainotaki Waterfall. You can also see it from above on a paved path. Spotlights illuminate the area from sunset to 10:00 pm on warm summer nights.

6. MOTONOSUMI INARI SHRINE - 123 TORII GATES ON THE SEA OF JAPAN

The secluded Motonosumi Inari Shrine sits on the picturesque cliffs of Yamaguchi’s coast. The red torii gates lead you down a footpath that stretches over 100 meters. The end of the trail takes you to a viewing area over the shoreline. Weathered grooves and holes riddle the cliff face, and water bursts up through them like geysers when the waves hit.

7. THE BLUE POND IN BIEI JAPAN - SEE BEAUTIFUL SCENERY YEAR-ROUND

After the eruption of Mount Tokachidake, Biei City built the Blue Pond to control the erosion. Without meaning to, they created one of the most scenic places in Japan . A mixture of natural minerals in the pond’s water creates an iridescent blue that shines through even when it freezes in winter. Surrounded by autumn leaves in fall and lush greens in summer , the Blue Pond is well worth the trip any time of year .

8. OIRASE NATIONAL PARK’S MOUNTAIN STREAM - HIKING IN JAPAN’S BEAUTIFUL LANDSCAPE

The Oirase Mountain Stream in Aomori Prefecture is the only outlet from Lake Towada . Over a dozen waterfalls pour into a gorge, which creates the stream. It’s particularly striking when the autumn leaves reach their peak colors from late October to early November. An easy day hike leads you through the upper passage, which takes most people around two and a half hours to complete.

9. MATSUSHIMA - ONE OF THE MOST SCENIC PLACES IN JAPAN

For centuries, Japanese people have considered Matsushima Bay as one of the top three most beautiful places in the country. Over two-hundred small islands dot the crystal water, and thousands of pine trees color the land. The best way to see the bay is by boarding one of the many sightseeing cruises . It takes around five to ten minutes to walk from Matsushima Kaigan Station to the pier, and you can choose short or long routes to remote regions.

10. KINOSAKI ONSEN - ONE OF THE BEST HOT SPRINGS IN JAPAN

Kinosaki has been the premier place to relax and recharge in the Kansai region since the 8th century. The healing waters that pump into the town's traditional ryokans are one reason to visit, but the atmosphere separates Kinosaki from other onsen areas. Nearly everyone walking along the willow-lined river wears a cotton yukata kimono as they scurry from bathhouse to bathhouse.

11. TAKEDA CASTLE - THE RUINS OF THE SKY PALACE

Although there aren’t any buildings left of Takeda Castle , you can explore the foundations of the central fortress and three wings. The best time to go here is in October and November at sunrise. On these days, clouds form around the ruins, and Takeda Castle seems to float on top of them. The most attractive viewing points take about thirty or forty minutes to reach on foot.

12. TOTTORI SAND DUNES - THE DESERT OF JAPAN

While the rest of the country boasts mountains, forests, and rivers, dunes span the coast in Tottori . Some measure at two kilometers wide and fifty meters high, but the tides and coastal winds continuously change the landscape. You can ride a camel, board a horse-drawn cart, or try paragliding and “sandboarding.” Near here, you can also find the Sand Museum, where Japanese and international artists create statues from the sand.

13. SHIMANAMI KAIDO - WHERE TO TAKE A BIKE RIDE IN JAPAN

The Shimanami Kaido bridge connects Honshu and Shikoku, and you can cross it either on foot or by bicycle. The 60-kilometer route passes through six small islands that have small towns and a few attractions. Travelers can rent bikes at one of many terminals. Most people prefer to cycle here in early November when the weather is warm and mild.

14. AMANOHASHIDATE - THE BRIDGE IN HEAVEN

In the northern region of Kyoto Prefecture , 8,000 pines grow on a sandbar that rises out of Miyazu Bay. The treeline stretches over the ocean from one coast to another. If you bend over and stick your head between your legs, they look like a bridge in the sky. Along with Matsushima Bay and Miyajima Island, Amanohashidate is one of the top three most scenic views in Japan.

15. SHIRETOKO PENINSULA CRUISE - A TOUR OF JAPAN’S WILDLIFE

The rugged Shiretoko Peninsula is part of an unspoiled national park in Hokkaido. From April to November, you can take sightseeing cruises along the coastline to cliffs and waterfalls that are otherwise inaccessible. The highlight of the journey is the wildlife on the rocky beaches and in the ocean. Depending on the season, you might spot dolphins, whales, brown bears, and more.

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The Ultimate Guide to Traveling in the Japanese Countryside

Exploring and traveling in the Japanese countryside is one of the most harmonic down-to-earth things you can experience in life. This is because Japan has a more than 2000-year old history, rich with temples, shrines, and other historic places to visit. Japan is also a country with beautiful and varying nature. Not only does Japan offer jungles in southern Okinawa. It also offers snow and a Scandinavian climate in northern Hokkaido. Nature also varies greatly with altitude, and Japan is 73% mountainous! This also means that 73% of Japan lies in the countryside!

So, how to best start traveling in the Japanese countryside? What can you do there? That’s what we’ll talk about in this article. Read on if you want to learn more!

Things to do when traveling in the Japanese countryside

Before exploring different options for traveling in the Japanese countryside, let’s explore why you would even bother going there in the first place. Here are some tips for enjoyable things to do in the Japanese countryside:

Hiking and nature walks

The first and most obvious thing you can do is to just go hiking. There are so many different options for you that it’s hard to cover all of them here.

As for the time of year, we especially recommend hiking during spring and autumn to experience the cherry blossom season or autumn foliage season . Don’t forget to bring good shoes and lots of water and rations.

Hot springs (onsen)

There are more different types of Onsen (温泉) in Japan than you can imagine. Onsen come in all kinds of colors and variations and the best onsen are always found within the countryside. Some onsen come with a fantastic view, some have tea leaves in them, some are so acidic that you can’t put your face in the water.

Local food tasting

You’d be surprised how much local variation there is to cuisine in Japan. Most cities and prefectures have their own set of renowned cuisine ( meibutsu , 名物). For example, Aomori is known for apples, Hiroshima for okonomiyaki, Saga is known for dried seaweed persimmons, and so on. Wherever you go, make sure to try out the local cuisine while traveling in the Japanese countryside!

The countryside has less light pollution, and you can see the starry skies much more clearly, providing an excellent opportunity for stargazing. Bring a blanket and flashlight, lie back, and enjoy the night sky.

Different regions in Japan and what makes them special

As earlier mentioned, Japan offers great variation in nature, landscape, and cultural activities depending on which area you visit. To highlight this, let us give a brief overview of the different areas in Japan and what you can do in each area!

Okinawa – A tropical haven

Let’s start in the South! If you want to experience clear, turquoise waters and white sandy beaches, try out snorkeling in the coral reeves, or visit the last jungles of Japan, Okinawa might be for you!

The prefecture of Okinawa consists of 160 islands and many of the smaller islands around the main island have the best beaches and water activities such as snorkeling. Some ferries go back and forth from the Okinawan capital of Naha on a regular basis.

One good thing to be aware of is that Okinawa gets really hot during summer, as such, it may be wise to avoid the peak of summer and the rainy season.

Kyūshū – An enchanting tapestry of nature

If you want to explore the Japanese countryside, one of the best places to start with is the southern island of Japan, Kyūshū. In the southwestern part of the island, you will find Kagoshima, a popular destination most famous for the island of Sakurajima, an active stratovolcano that sits in Kagoshima Bay. 

Further north on the western coast lies Nagasaki. Nagasaki was the only port connecting Japan and the rest of the world during the Edo period when Japan isolated itself to not become influenced by Western powers.

In the middle of Kyūshū, you will find Saga Prefecture. If you are interested in learning about the origins of Japan, you can travel to the Yoshinogari Historical Park and learn more about the Yayoi period and Queen Himiko. Finally, Kyūshū also has one of the best onsen resorts in Japan, namely Beppu in the Oita prefecture .

Shikoku – A breathtaking pilgrimage

Shikoku is the least populated island of Japan’s four main islands. Therefore, it is also one of the best places to visit if your goal is to experience traveling in the Japanese countryside. One reason Shikoku is beautiful is because there are bridges that connect the many tiny islands dotting the region. Another local curiosity is the Shikoku Junrei (四国巡礼), a 1200 km pilgrimage that takes you past 88 Buddhist temples on foot and takes 1 to 2 months to complete by foot.

Chūgoku – History, nature, and culinary delights

The Chūgoku region is the westernmost region of Honshū and where popular destinations such as Hiroshima lie. In the region, you can enjoy delicious Okonomiyaki, stop by the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum learn about the tragic nuclear bomb strike, and remember its victims.

If you want to explore outside the large cities we recommend visiting the Kintai Bridge (錦帯橋). An absolutely magical place during the Sakura season. You can catch a ferry and visit the island of Miyajima (宮島) which offers delicious food, temples, and hiking possibilities. 

Another peculiar place in the area is Ōkunoshima (大久野島). Or “Rabbit Island” – an island which houses thousands upon thousands of free-roaming friendly rabbits.

Kansai – The cultural center of Japan

The Kansai region is the cultural mecca of Japan and an excellent place to experience Japanese traditional culture. Here you will find the old capital of Kyoto . and the second largest city in Japan, Osaka . Kyoto is one of the only larger cities that wasn’t bombed during WWII, and as such, the density of historical temples is unmatched. By the way, if you happen to be traveling in the Kyoto area, one recommendation is to climb Mt. Daimonji at sunset and see Kyoto from above as the darkness settles. The slow transition from the sunset to how the city lights up is simply amazing.

If Kyoto is a bit too crowded for you, you can also visit the nearby lake Biwa – The largest lake in Japan. Here you can do tons of outdoor activities such as cycling, swimming, camping, and more.

In the area near Osaka, you also have the port town of Kobe , a more peaceful harbor town with an international vibe and lots of hiking options. Finally, we also highly recommend visiting the city of Nara – Japan’s oldest capital, a city filled with ancient temples and beautiful parks with free-roaming deer that, through the ages, have learned to bow for food!

Chūbu – A gateway for travel, camping, and sightseeing

Next, we have the central region of Japan called Chūbu. Here lies the famous Mount Fuji . Around Fuji you also have the Fuji Five Lakes (富士五湖). This area is one of the best places to visit exploring the Japanese countryside. We recommend renting a bike, staying at a hotel (or camping), and traveling around the five lakes surrounding Mount Fuji. You will also find the city of Nagoya in Chūbu – a famous city connecting Tokyo and Kyoto. Nagoya offers great variation in local food such as miso-katsu (味噌カツ) or kishimen (きし麵). Nagoya is the ideal spot to have as a base, as it is right in between Kyoto and Tokyo, as well as near remote must-visit locations such as the Shirakawago (白川郷) and the Shima Peninsula (志摩半島).

Kantō – Japan’s big apple

The Kantō region is where you will find the big apple of Japan, namely Tokyo . Although Tokyo indeed is the world’s largest metropolitan area, the beautiful thing is that it’s very easy to access more rural and harmonic places with public transport. The Kantō region has some of the very best options when it comes to traveling in the Japanese countryside. First of all, we have Hakone at a stone’s throw distance southwest of Tokyo. Hakone is ideal for bathing in onsen, and hiking. We also have Kamakura close by, a historically important port town with lots of beaches, historical buildings, and the famous peninsula of Enoshima (江ノ島). If you travel North instead you can visit Nikko. Nikko lies in the mountains and is a great place to visit during the winter. Our recommendation if you want to see more of the countryside is to take a bus from Nikko station to Lake Chuzenji (中禅寺湖). Here you will find waterfalls, a crystal blue lake with the towering Mt Nantai that really makes the snowy landscape a spectacle to behold. You can also rent snowshoes and walk around the marchlands of Senjō-ga-hara (戦場ヶ原)! Going northwest you can either visit the Nagano prefecture. When it comes to traveling in the countryside, your best option in the area is the town of Yudanaka (湯田中). A small town north of Nagano that is famous for bathing snow monkeys and onsen. In the same direction, you also have the Gunma prefecture which too has a famous onsen resort, especially during summer. Other than that, we have the astonishing port town of Yokohama and the adjacent Minato Mirai, Saitama, and the Edo-style town of Kawagoe, Chiba with its many parks and rural areas, there are so many great locations to visit that we can’t possibly list them all here.

Tōhoku – A snowy paradise

Proceeding up north we have the region of Tōhoku. If you live in Japan or plan to travel there, our recommendation is to travel north towards Tōhoku and Hokkaido during the winter season! The reason is that Tōhoku has many great locations for winter activities. Using Sendai as the base, you can, for example, visit Yamadera (山寺), a beautiful temple in the middle of nowhere on the mountainside with an amazing view. You can also keep going to find the rural town of Zaō (蔵王), a lesser-known but very recommended place for skiing and onsen.

You can also travel north and visit places such as the town of Kessennuma (気仙沼市) an area that was badly struck by the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and following tsunami.

Hokkaido – Skiing, hiking and hot springs

Finally, we have the northernmost island of Hokkaido. Using the capital of Sapporo as your base, you can enjoy skiing and hiking, as well as learn about the indigenous Ainu people.

If you want to experience traveling in the Japanese countryside, we recommend using the railway connection that connects the southern towns of Hakodate and Sapporo. Although the train ride takes several hours, there are many stops along the way where you can visit rural villages that very seldom get visitors.

Transportation for traveling in the Japanese countryside

Getting from point A to B is not as straightforward if you are in the rural areas of Japan. You’re likely to encounter hourly bus traffic, signs written only in Japanese, and a population that most likely doesn’t speak English. Therefore, the first and maybe most important tip is to learn some basic Japanese – enough to ask for directions and read signs. Luckily, reaching this level of proficiency only takes a couple of months, if you study at one of our partner schools in Japan, or take an online course !

With that said, let us present your different transportation options for traveling to, and within the Japanese countryside!

Travel by train

Your first choice of travel will probably be by train. Japan has a huge train network that connects all of Japan. We recommend getting an IC card for easier payment. If you are planning on traveling far and want to visit rural areas, it is also recommended to get a Seishun 18 Kippu (青春１８切符), a stampcard where one stamp (about 3013 yen) allows free travel with JR local trains for one full day.

Travel by bus

Japan also offers large bus networks connecting commuters far into the countryside from the nearest train station. However, most buses in rural areas don’t have any support for the English language. Therefore, it is highly recommended to directly ask the bus driver if the bus goes to your location before entering the bus. It’s also good to know that you need to press the “stop button” at your station, otherwise the bus driver will just pass by.

Travel by taxi

If there is no public transport available to your location, your best bet is to simply take a taxi. It may be a bit more expensive, but its convenience makes up for it. If you want to learn more about using a taxi while traveling in the Japanese countryside, check out our guide on the matter here .

*Note that Uber and other ride-sharing apps aren’t commonly used in Japan, and may be unavailable in rural areas.

Travel by bicycle

Depending on how far you need to go while traveling in the Japanese countryside, another great option is to rent a bicycle! Enjoying nature from the back of a bicycle is much more enjoyable than from a car window! But if you are going into the mountains on a bicycle, the roads can both be narrow and dangerous. Therefore it’s important to know your route before departing.

Also, remember to follow Japanese law when cycling, or you may be subject to a fine. It is not allowed to listen to music while cycling. On pedestrian sidewalks, you must have a headlamp installed on the bicycle, and in cities, you may only park the bicycle at designated parking lots.

Communicating with the locals

One thing that makes your rural experience even more memorable is having a chat with the locals. Most often you don’t even need to make the first move. Foreigners traveling in the Japanese countryside are rare, and more often than not, locals will take an interest in you initiating a conversation before you have the chance to. Of course, to be able to communicate, you must first learn how to speak conversational Japanese. To get the most out of your Japanese travel experience, we therefore recommend that you spend some time learning Japanese! If you are interested in making a study trip to Japan, contact us for more information! If you want to learn more about Japanese culture and life in Japan, make sure to follow our blog !

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The Best 8 Japanese Countryside Destinations You Must Visit

Japan’s major cities are a sight to behold. There are always interesting activities to do and places to visit. It’s no wonder why this country had 31.8 million international visitors in 2019 alone. But if you’re keeping your doors open for metro cities only, you are seriously missing out on a lot. 

Aside from its leading cities, the Japanese countryside is also a gem to visit. If you are looking for a relaxing stay in Japan, away from the bustle and hustle of the economic centers, and be in awe of the nation’s history and diversity, here are the 10 best Japanese countryside destinations to visit. 

If you are looking for a quick countryside getaway, Hakone is one of your best bets. Only 50 miles away from the capital Tokyo, it is a good location for a weekend trip. It’s a popular destination for its numerous onsen, the beautiful Lake Ashinoko, and the impressive view of Mt. Fuji. 

If you are also looking for a wide collection of abstract sculptures, Hakone is also the home to the Hakone Open Air Museum , where you get to see unique sculptures made by local and international artists. The museum also dedicated a whole hall to the works of Pablo Picasso. 

If you are a fan of Studio Ghibli then this place is a dream destination. Often named as the inspiration behind the anime Princess Mononoke, Yakushima in Kagoshima Prefecture is a tourist-favorite spot (locals too!). It’s a great place for shinrin-yoku (森林浴), or forest bathing. 

One of the most interesting activities to do in the location is to take a trek to Mt. Miyanoura via the Arakawa trail. It’s a good hike with the waterfalls as your scenic view. By taking this trail, you will be able to see the Jomon Sugi, an ancient tree that is roughly 7,200 years old. 

The Shiretoko Peninsula, located at the easternmost part of Hokkaido Island, is one of the most thoroughly maintained national parks and the most untouched of all Japan’s countryside. The reason? Shiretoko has the most number of bears in the world. Definitely not the location where you’ll be able to confidently relax. 

However, you’ll still be able to appreciate the grandness of the place by visiting the Five Lakes Visitor Center . If you are an animal lover and would love to know more about the wild, this place a is must-visit.

If you are visiting during the winter, travel to the Sea of Okhotsk’s coastline where you’ll be able to see naturally drifting ice from Russia. 

Kabira Bay, Ishigaki

Japan is famous for its stunning and alluring metro cities but some often forget that Japan is an archipelago of 6,852 islands. Imagine the number of beaches and coastlines this nation has! 

If you go as far as South, about 1,200 miles away from Tokyo, is the dazzling island of Ishigaki where the pearl-growing cove of Kabira Bay resides. Clear blue waters and sparkling white sand, it’s a beautiful beach to stay in. 

Though you won’t be able to take a swim in Kabira Bay, the whole island has numerous beaches, most are empty and untouched, are potential swimming and snorkeling areas. 

Mount Daisen, Tottori

Tottori Prefecture is the least-populated in the entirety of Japan. However, this fact doesn’t take away the charm the rural destination offers. The most distinguishing feature of Tottori is Mount Daisen, a large, volcanic mountain with a striking scenic view. 

If you are interested in the spiritual history and culture, you can visit the 1,300-year-old Daisen-ji Temple , one of the oldest and most sacred shrines in Japan. For some exceptional art, take a look at Mabuya, a multi-purpose gallery, and cafe run by community members. 

Shimoda, Shizuoka

Another one on the list for a quick weekend country getaway is Shimoda, a coastal two on the southern edge of Izu Penninsula. It’s only a three-hour drive from Tokyo but is home to a fascinating local history. While you are there, you have to head over to Perry Road which tells the story of American Commodore Matthew Perry’s arrival in Japan during the mid-1800s. 

If you travel by car, you can stop over at Izu’s other coastal towns and take a detour. 

Famous for being a winter destination but is also a must-visit during the summer as well. Hokkaido sure has it all. If you are looking for a memorable Japan experience, you have to visit Lake Akan, a crater lake surrounded by stunning a picturesque view of Akan Mashu National Park. 

The location is famous for producing marimo , a breed of algae that grows in a perfect spherical shape. The Akan Adventure Tourism also created an immersive multimedia experience called the KAMUY LUMINA, an Enchanted Night Walk at Lake Akan , which will show you the beauty of Hokkaido and the culture of its indigenous people, the Ainu. 

Shonai Yamagata 

If you are looking for a destination where you can genuinely feel peace and some alone time, head over to Shonai, located in the northwestern corner of Yamagata Prefecture. It’s not a common tourist spot so the prices for accommodations and meals are cheap. However, it is only easily accessible by plane. Once you’ve arrived in the area, a car would be best for getting around. 

You can visit the Zenpoji Temple and watch a prayer ceremony by Buddhist monks or stop by the award-winning sake brewer Takenotsuyu , the maker of the area’s premium rice crops. If you are bringing a child with you, the destination also has Kamo Aquarium, a place dedicated to jellyfish. 

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10 Countryside Destinations in Japan

Stretching north to south, Japan's islands are dotted with charming farm villages, mountain hamlets, and port towns. It is at these delightful settlements you can experience traditional lifestyles, decadent cuisine, and activities from the past. Fortunately, more and more accommodations are popping up in these countryside havens.

Relive a bygone era in traditional buildings, interact with locals through agricultural activities, and try your hand at sports that make the most of the local terrain and climate. To choose one of these places is to set the city aside and embark on a journey of unique experiences only the countryside can offer. Read on to learn more about 10 carefully selected regions and accommodations that are gaining attention.

View the article

• 1. [Hokkaido] Experience Sustainable Living, Exquisite Cuisine, and Incredible Natural Scenery in Northern Japan  
• 2. [Iwate] Take in the Fantastical Beauty of Far-Flung Tohoku and Explore a National Park!  
• 3. [Tochigi] Stay in a Historical Landmark to Experience Farming Culture and Local Crafts  
• 4. [Saitama] Miyamoto-ke Wrestles Up Rural Charm and Farm-to-Table Fare  
• 5. [Fukui] Experience Japan’s Sublime Seafood, Superb Design, and Excellent Coastal Views Along the Country’s Historical Saba Kaido  
• 6. [Gifu] A River Runs through Mino’s Paper Culture at Nipponia Mino Shokamachi  
• 7. [Kyoto] Experience How the Locals Lived One Hundred Years Ago  
• 8. [Hyogo] Exploring a Historical Sake Brewery Hotel and the Castle in the Sky  
• 9. [Shimane] Travel Back in Time and Witness Enduring Traditions  
• 10. [Tokushima] Experience Breathtaking Scenery, Stunning Tradi-tional Architecture, and Ancient Farming Practices in the Iya Valley  
• Watch and discover the charms of Japan's countryside  

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1 [hokkaido] experience sustainable living, exquisite cuisine, and incredible natural scenery in northern japan.

A world away from the noise and neon of Tokyo, Hokkaido’s tranquil Tsurui Village in the eastern reaches of Japan’s northern island offers a traditional way of life—with an emphasis on existing in harmony with the natural world. Here, visitors can experience authentic farm stays, exquisite local cuisine with high-quality venison and dairy, and incredible canoe journeys through unspoiled nature. For those wanting to escape the stresses of modern life, this remote haven in northern Japan may well be the ideal place to go.

2 [Iwate] Take in the Fantastical Beauty of Far-Flung Tohoku and Explore a National Park!

Iwate Prefecture is located in the Tohoku region of Japan and is known for its beautiful coastline, scenic nature, and lush mountains. Iwate has the lowest population density out of any of the prefectures on Japan’s main island, which contributes to its relaxed, slow-paced atmosphere. Hachimantai City, nestled in the mountains of Iwate Prefecture, is the perfect place to enjoy Iwate’s natural beauty and tranquility. From walking tours to forest explorations, there are a range of activities for nature lovers, and delicious local food is always available for recharging between activities. View the article  

3 [Tochigi] Stay in a Historical Landmark to Experience Farming Culture and Local Crafts

Located about an hour by car from Utsunomiya City, Tochigi’s Nakagawa Town and the adjacent Otawara City are havens of rustic tranquility and natural beauty. With the historic main street and the lovingly restored Iizuka-tei residence as well as the curious Gozeniwa Bussan Center, remnants of the past live on in Nakagawa Town. In Otawara City, visit a local farm to pick fresh vegetables and learn from the locals how to enjoy the slower-paced, rewarding moments of countryside life.  

4 [Saitama] Miyamoto-ke Wrestles Up Rural Charm and Farm-to-Table Fare

Streets bathed in neon and skyscrapers brightening up the night sky like giant urban lighthouses—these are part of the appeal of traveling in a big Japanese city. But there comes a time when you miss the stars above your head and long for a little peace and quiet. Thankfully, you can easily find these at Miyamoto-ke, a centuries-old farmhouse renovated and converted into an inn and run by a former sumo wrestler in Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture, Tokyo’s neighbor to the north. What’s more is that you can be in Chichibu City in just over an hour from central Tokyo.

View the article  

5 [Fukui] Experience Japan’s Sublime Seafood, Superb Design, and Excellent Coastal Views Along the Country’s Historical Saba Kaido

Japan is recognized internationally for its exceptional seafood, and perhaps no area more so than the ancient Saba Kaido, or Mackerel Highway. Once having supplied food to Japan's imperial court, this area still produces first-rate seafood. We will take you on a journey to Obama City, the starting point of the Saba Kaido, where you can taste the bounty of the Japan Sea, experience the maritime activities and traditions of the region, and marvel at outstanding ocean views.

6 [Gifu] A River Runs through Mino’s Paper Culture at Nipponia Mino Shokamachi

Historic Mino City in Gifu Prefecture was built under the influence of both water and fire. The city itself is nourished by the Itadori and Nagara Rivers, and its traditional houses in the picturesque Udatsu Preservation District are equipped with udatsu, walls to prevent the spread of fire. The udatsu firewalls were a symbol of great wealth in pre-modern Japan as they were very expensive to build, and only the wealthiest merchants could afford them. This enormous wealth came from Mino’s paper industry, and it goes to show how important the paper industry was, and continues to be, in Mino. The Itadori and Nagara Rivers supply not only the fish used in Mino’s outstanding cuisine but also the water that has long been indispensable in the production of local washi (Japanese paper, recognized as a World Intangible Cultural Heritage) that Mino is synonymous with.synonymous with. Come learn about it all firsthand at Nipponia Mino Shokamachi.

7 [Kyoto] Experience How the Locals Lived One Hundred Years Ago

Kyoto is one of Japan’s most historically significant cities and is well loved by visitors from all over the world. Beyond Kyoto’s beautiful geisha and famous temples, however, is a lesser-known part of Kyoto’s history. Nantan City tells the story of Japanese farmers and hunters who settled in the mountains and lived as one with the nature around them. Here, the visitor can become completely immersed in the history of this place by lending a hand to the villagers and staying at an authentic kayabuki minka (thatched-roof house) surrounded by a tranquil landscape.

8 [Hyogo] Exploring a Historical Sake Brewery Hotel and the Castle in the Sky

Asago City, located in Hyogo Prefecture, is within easy reach of Kyoto Station. This area as a whole might not be familiar to most people, but sight of the “castle in the sky” of Takeda Castle rising out of the clouds almost certainly is. The castle itself is a popular destination for one-day visits, but it is only by staying the night that you will get to see everything the area has to offer. Not only do you get the sight of Takeda Castle ethereal in the early morning or late at night, but the area is a real gourmet hub. The sake wine brewed in the castle town is lauded globally, and local Tajima Wagyu beef is recognized as a World Agricultural Heritage Site, and that is only scratching the surface!

9 [Shimane] Travel Back in Time and Witness Enduring Traditions

Oda City, located in Shimane Prefecture on the Sea of Japan, is home to Yunotsu Onsen, a famous hot spring town whose waters are said to have special therapeutic properties due to their high sulfur content and heat. A monk supposedly discovered its healing properties when he witnessed an injured raccoon bathing its wounds in the onsen. The city upholds many sacred traditions, such as the meticulously handcrafted Yunotsu pottery and the Iwami Kagura, a ritual performance that has been handed down through generations—unlike in many other parts of Japan where the kagura has been lost to time.

10 [Tokushima] Experience Breathtaking Scenery, Stunning Tradi-tional Architecture, and Ancient Farming Practices in the Iya Valley

Within the endless forests and deep gorges of Tokushima Prefecture’s Iya Valley is a part of Japan’s cultural heritage that remains largely unknown to the overseas visitors who flock to Japan each year. It’s here that they can experience some of the country’s most exquisite food, enduring agricultural traditions, and otherworldly scenery. We invite you to take a step back in time to Miyoshi City, home of the Iya Valley, and experience one of the nation’s most incredible hidden gems.

Watch and discover the charms of Japan's countryside

This video introduces Japan's farm villages, mountain hamlets, and port towns. Delight in the unique scenery, food, and experiences that can only be found here.

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Experience Rural Japan! 5 Must-Visit, Nature-Filled Places

Japan's countryside is worth visiting at least once to savor a slower pace of life. The rural parts of Japan are everywhere: the fairytale-like Yakushima, a beach in Shikoku with reflective sands, and quiet mountain in Tokyo will soothe your worries and inspire you to appreciate the simple things.

Kyoto, Japan

Where and How to See Rural Japan - 5 Recommended Destinations

With its cosmopolitan, modern cities, advanced transportation and technology, and small geographical size, it can be challenging to find greenery, nature, and places with few people in Japan––especially for those visiting Tokyo. However, the countryside in Japan is accessible when using the JR Pass . This article introduces five idyllic rural spots in Japan worth visiting at least once. Some are accessible from Tokyo via train, and some require long journeys. All are amazing and will provide a one-of-a-kind experience.

Continue reading below to learn about these special spots, from areas with idyllic sunsets to a nature resort above a sea of clouds, to remote islands accessible only via boat. These destinations will give you inspiration, whether or not you are planning a trip for next year, or still dreaming about Japan.

1. Yakushima Island, Kagoshima Prefecture

Photo by Pixta Yakushima is a nature paradise, famous for its resemblance to "Princess Mononoke" by popular anime film director, Hayao Miyazaki. Home to Yakusugi , some of the largest cedar trees in the world, these ancient forests are heavily protected and well-preserved. Travelers can enjoy trekking through the dreamlike scenery. Camping is also possible.

Advanced preparation is required to go to Yakushima due to its remote location. This island is off the coast of Kagoshima in southern Japan: getting here requires a 2-3 hour ferry ride from the harbor in Kagoshima Prefecture. Those coming from other parts of Kyushu can use JR trains (using the JR Kyushu Rail Pass is convenient), and those coming from Tokyo are encouraged to fly to Kagoshima Airport.

2. Mt. Mitake, Western Tokyo

Picture from The Rock Garden On Mt. Mitake - Listen To A Mountain Stream In Tokyo Mt. Mitake may surprise many as it is technically located in Tokyo, but it is around a 2-hour train ride from the city center. Receiving much fewer visitors than the popular Mt. Takao , this quiet, 929-meter elevation (3,048 feet) peak and its trails is perfect for unwinding and being at one with nature for the day, or during a short side trip.

On Mt. Mitake, look for the rock garden trail, which will lead you through a moss-filled, rocky path that will take your breath away with its beauty. There are several other hiking trails to enjoy. Visitors can stay the night and do takigyo , or waterfall meditation, as well. Guided tours are available and ideal for those wanting to learn in-depth about the mountain.

3. Tomamu Resort, Hokkaido Prefecture

Get a stunning view from above the clouds at Tomamu Resort in Hokkaido. This famous resort is owned by a few different resort inns, including the Tomamu Towers and hotels part of the Hoshino Resort group. Visitors can take a ropeway up to an observation deck with a picture-perfect view of a sea of clouds ("unkai" in Japanese) that appear under the appropriate weather conditions.

Photo by Pixta The resort area contains farms with petting zoos, restaurants, and accommodations, but the surrounding area is very rural. Driving is the easiest way to get around this rural part of Hokkaido.

4. Oki Islands, Shimane Prefecture

Photo by Pixta The Oki Islands are a remote set of islands off the coast of Shimane Prefecture. With the majority of the islands uninhabited and a UNESCO Global Geopark designation, visitors can take in the rugged coastlines, grassy highlands, and calderas (crater-like spaces left after a volcanic eruption). These charming islands offer the ideal refuge from city life, as there is nothing but nature here. Travelers can escape with hiking, water sports, fishing, and local seafood in this paradise of nature.

5. Chichibugama, Kagawa Prefecture

Photo by Pixta For those looking for a sunset unlike anything you've ever seen: Chichibugahama in Miyoto, Kagawa Prefecture, is the place to go. Located in Shikoku, an island just south of Okayama and Hyogo prefectures, this small town is famous throughout Japan for its colorful sunsets and reflective sands .

Visitors can enjoy a stroll down this gorgeous beach at dusk while taking in views of the Seto Inland Sea and its islands, such as art-filled Naoshima and Teshima . Be sure to bring a camera to capture the magic.

Another thing to try in Mitoyo is udon ! A thicker variety known as Sanuki udon noodles are made here, so visitors can slurp down these fresh, delicious wheat noodles like the locals at one of the many restaurants in and around the city.

Those with a Japan Rail Pass can navigate via train here, but we also suggest renting a car or using taxis for comfort.

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An awkward Southern California native living in Osaka. Originally came to Japan on the JET Program in Hyogo Prefecture (Kansai) after studying economics in college, and decided to try to stay.

IUC 10-month program graduate. Vegan and interested in all things Japan-related. Left-handed. Very fond of Kansai.

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Beyond Tokyo: The NYLON Guide To Japan’s Countryside

Go off the beaten path

Japan is a bucket list destination for many people—it certainly was for me. Over 21 million people have visited the archipelago nation so far this year, with most flocking to its magical capital city, Tokyo. It’s great and overflowing with things to do, but the nation extends beyond the busy Shibuya crossing. There's tons of nature to be found! Like, did you know 68 percent of Japan is covered in forests? And all you need to do is pay a visit to Japan's countryside to find it.

A note: I'm not saying you shouldn't visit Tokyo and Kyoto, because as long as you’re flying over 14 hours (like I did), you might as well do it up. Hopefully, you’re staying for longer than a week, because you can’t fully enjoy any part of Asia without being there for at least 10 days (hell, you won’t get over your jet lag until four days in). But once you’re done pushing and shoving and excuse me-ing your way through the more popular attractions, hop onto the futuristic bullet train that runs through the country, and settle into more serene places like Shizuoka and Shiga prefectures. It’s impossible to have a bad time in Japan, a place where even the convenience store will provide you with wonder, but visiting the parts not usually seen will make you appreciate its beauty tenfold. 

Shizuoka  Prefecture

The Shizuoka Prefecture is one of those off-the-beaten-path areas you wouldn’t necessarily know to seek out unless someone told you about it. So, here we are, telling you about it. It’s located about an hour or so outside of Tokyo and contains over 2,300 hot springs. 

The scenery is unparalleled. You'll find Mt. Fuji, the country's largest mountain, following you throughout your trip no matter the distance or the direction. And you’ll soon learn that there’s no such thing as a bad picture of the sometimes-elusive volcano. 

Where to Stay

Izu Marriott Hotel Shuzenji :  Located at the top of a winding hill, this newly renovated Marriott is the perfect balance between a modern and traditional Japanese experience. Most rooms come with your own private onsen hot spring located on the balcony. (There’s a communal one on the grounds, too.) If you’re lucky, you’ll get a room facing Mt. Fuji. Even if you don’t, you’ll still be presented with endless greenery. Pro tip: Come in the autumn when the leaves start to turn. You’ve never seen proper fall foliage until you’ve seen Japan’s. 

A traditional Ryokan:  If you’re looking to really immerse yourself in the Japanese culture, Ryokans—or traditional guest houses—are always an option. Most seem pricey at first, but food is factored in, which is seasonal and served fresh. You can sort through the Shuzenji options here . 

Walk across the  Mishima Skywalk :  Japan’s longest pedestrian bridge also boasts some of its most picturesque views. It can feel a little unsteady when you’re walking along it—and is probably more wobbly on a windy day—but allow Mt. Fuji to act as your North Star. Once you get to the other side, enjoy some rice balls and stunning sights. It’s touristy, sure, but you are  a tourist, dammit, so embrace the touristy things, especially when the reward is Insta-worthy snaps every couple of steps. 

Visit  Shuzenji Temple :  You should want to see everything you can during a visit to Japan, but on your "need-to-do" list should absolutely be a temple of some kind. Founded by priest, scholar, and artist Kobo Daishi, the 1,200-year-old Shuzenji Temple is a quaint and idyllic place. There’s also a garden located on the grounds, which has ponds filled with koi fish and a serene waterfall. Get ready to find Zen. 

Then, head to the bamboo forest:  When you’re done paying your respects and prancing through the garden, walk around the surrounding area and check out the mini bamboo forest. It’s not as famous as the Kyoto Sagano forest, nor is it as big, but you also won’t have to arrive here at 7am in order to get a picture without other people in it. 

Next, make your way over the red bridge, and you’ll find hidden shops filled with vintage and handmaid ceramics, cat-adorned tote bags, scarves with beautiful floral prints, and delicate jewelry. Each store has a different personality, so make sure to test out each one. On your way back, you can dip your feet in the local (and free) onsen foot bath located a couple feet away from the temple.

Go to the Numazu Fish Market :  Tsukiji fish market, located in Tokyo, is home to the world’s largest fish market, but Numazu is one of the more untapped ones. Make a reservation, and you can witness fishermen pay upward of 300,000 yen for a big hunk of tuna. It’s cooler than it sounds, and events of this kind top Japan’s must-see list for a reason. You have to get there around 5am, but that should be fairly easy for the jet-lagged set. 

Where to Eat and Drink

Uogashi Maruten :  Once you’re done circling the fish market, head over to Uogashi Maruten down the street to inhale the freshest sashimi you’ve ever had. If you’re not a fan of fish—specifically the raw kind with eyes and all—then maybe don’t venture here (and, TBH, maybe don’t venture to Japan, the mecca of seafood, at all). If you are a fan, congratulations! But also, sorry, because no other sashimi will be able to top this. 

Daikan Yashiki :  It’s really, really hard to go hungry in Japan. Meaning, there’s no shortage of really, really delicious food. Daikan Yashiki offers up flavorful unagi (eel), soba noodles, miso soup, and a great matcha jello/pudding dessert—basically, all the workings of a great, well-rounded Japanese meal. 

Shiga Prefecture

Here is where you’ll find Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest freshwater lake, along with other very local and cultural happenings. Shiga Prefecture is located just east of Kyoto, so visitors of the city can travel here for a day trip or stay longer to get a better feel for the bucolic area. 

Grand Park Hotel Okubiwako Makino :  Located on the shores of Lake Biwa, here you’ll have plenty of access to the beach. Summer is preferable if you want to take a dip, but the off-season is great, too, for leisurely strolls. 

Lake Biwa Marriott Hotel :  If you tire of the sprawling view of Lake Biwa, hit some balls at the tennis court or pop in for a show at the hotel’s on-site planetarium. Or just grab a drink at the bar. Options are never a bad thing. 

Explore the  Omihachiman area :  When you picture the Japanese countryside, images of Omihachiman probably come to mind. It’s a charming, quiet neighborhood lined with merchant houses and tranquil canals. Hire a travel guide to take you around and provide historical context for the area; if it’s nice enough, hop on a boat and float down the waterways. 

Visit  Hikone Castle :  This national treasure (an honor held by only four other castles in Japan), completed in 1622, survived the post-feudal era without destruction or reconstruction. Meaning, it’s pretty cool for the history nerds among us. A bonus is that it’s also very lovely. It houses cherry blossoms in the spring and a teahouse year-round, where you can enjoy Hikone’s famous confections as well as matcha green tea. Come at the right time, and you’ll be able to catch the mascot, Hikonyan (a cat with a Trojan helmet on). 

Go on a sake tour:  Even if sake isn’t your thing (full disclosure: it’s not my thing), learning about how it’s made and fermented and cared for is fascinating. Like, did you know you can store it for 100 years if it’s completely sealed? And that one drop can contain 300 different ingredients, including amino acids and vitamins? You’ll pick up all of these fun (of limited utility?) facts if you sign up for a tour. I highly recommend Fujiii Honke , which has been around since 1831 and is run by a delightful brother and sister pair (see above!). Just make sure to check the available dates ahead of time. 

Where to Eat

Sennaritei Kyara :  Have you ever had beef that melts in your mouth? Because that’s what you’ll find at Sennaritei Kyara. They have some of the finest Omi beef that you can eat tataki-style (hot pot), boiled, or even raw. It was, hands down, one of the best meals I’ve had in Japan. My only complaint is that the portions should be much, much larger. 

Kyo-Ryori Wa Sora :  Japanese cuisine is a work of art. Everything is delicately put together, each ingredient meticulously chosen, and Kyo-ryori-style is the da Vinci of the bunch. Here, you’ll be presented with a dozen or so small, yet significant, dishes presented on a low dining table. The offerings will range from fish to meat and tofu, each plating more ornate than the last. The price is steep, but the experience is worth every yen(ny). 

• Things to Do

10 Most Beautiful Villages to Visit in Japan

List of the Best Scenic Japanese Villages

Every year, tourists flock to Japan’s cities to try the trendiest restaurants and shop for the latest fashions and gadgets. However, why not leave behind the crowds and take some time to breathe some fresh air and explore hidden gems in the Japanese countryside? From north to south, east to west, you will be awed by historical wonders and the majestic natural beauty that Japan has to offer. This is my guide to the 10 Most Beautiful Villages to Visit in Japan.

1. Shirakawago (Gifu)

▽More details about Shirakawa-go▽

2. Biei (Hokkaido)

Here are some related articles if you’re interested in this area of Hokkaido.

▶Biei Driving Guide: Patchwork Road and Panorama Road

▶Central Hokkaido: Furano, Biei and Asahidake

3. Kiso (Nagano)

The Kiso Valley (木曽路) in southwestern Nagano Prefecture is an area of enchanting nature and history. Surrounded by steep mountain peaks, the rugged valley boasts breathtaking views. One of the best-known scenic sites is the magnificent Kakizore Gorge, where you can enjoy a view of Ushigataki Falls cascading into the emerald waters of the Kakizore River. Kiso is also home to the best-preserved section of the old Nakasendo merchant trail, which was the main thoroughfare between Kyoto and Edo (present-day Tokyo) during the Edo period. Many of the old post towns along the trail are well-preserved, and strolling through these old magical streets feels like traveling back in time. Fuel your journey by sampling the region’s culinary specialties, including soba. Or even better, try making your own. Kiso Fukushima’s Furusato Taikenkan offers soba-making workshops in addition to other traditional foods and crafts.

Here is a related article if you’re interested in this village.

▶Nakasendo Trail: from Magome to Tsumago

4. Hoshino (Fukuoka)

From the northern plains of Hokkaido, we now come to Kyushu, the southernmost of Japan’s main islands. Hoshino Village is one of the most beautiful places – and possibly one of the most overlooked – in Japan. Hoshino (星野村) is located in the southeastern part of Fukuoka Prefecture , a remote location that has allowed it to preserve both its beautiful nature and rich cultural heritage. Ranging from altitudes of 200 to 1,000 meters above sea level, the village is an ideal place for rice cultivation and tea planting, as characterized by the lovely terraced fields stretching across the landscape. Hoshino Furusato Park is a nature park that also includes museums, such as the Hoshi-no-bunkakan (星の文化館), a planetarium equipped with Kyushu’s largest astronomical telescope for star gazing. Don’t forget to stop by the Cha-no-bunkakan (茶の文化館), a tea museum where you can sample the region’s specialty teas, including “Shizuku,” Hoshino’s own premium brand of tea.

5. Ine (Kyoto)

Ine (伊根町) is a seaside town that stretches along the Ine Bay, about 130 kilometers north of Kyoto City. Ine village has long been established as a fishing village. Today, it is regarded as one of the most beautiful in Japan and described by many as “the Venice of Japan.” The most unique feature of the village is its traditional boathouses, called Funaya in Japanese. These waterfront buildings have garages for boats on the first floor and living space on the upper floors. Over 200 Funaya remain along the bay, and some operate as guest houses where visitors can stay. The best way to view and admire the Funaya is by sea taxi operated by local fishermen. Unlike larger boats, these smaller sea taxis offer a more personalized experience. Reservations for these tours are required and can be made at the Funaya no Sato Park tourism office.

▶Ine no Funaya : Kyoto’s Hidden “The Venice of Japan”

6. Yoshino (Nara)

You may have already heard of Yoshino as Japan’s most famous cherry blossom viewing site . Indeed, there are over 30,000 cherry trees of 200 species lining the gentle slopes that lead up to Mount Yoshino (吉野山). So exquisite is this area that it features in numerous traditional Japanese literature and music. It is unsurprising then that Yoshino is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, not only for its singular nature but also because, as the base of the sacred pilgrimage trail to Mount Omine, it is rich with history. Although Yoshino national park is located in Nara prefecture , the easiest way to get here is from Kyoto Station. From Kyoto Station, take the Kintetsu line for an hour and 45 minutes to Yoshino Station. From Osaka, you can take the Kintetsu Minami Osaka line from Abenohashi Station to Yoshino Station in an hour and 25 minutes.

7. Tsurui (Hokkaido)

The village of Tsurui (鶴居村) is located in northeastern Hokkaido , about a 40-minute drive from Kushiro Airport. It has a long history of dairy farming, extensive marshlands, and well-preserved natural habitats. This is the perfect place if you are looking to experience Hokkaido’s bucolic charms and cultural heritage. There are village cottages where visitors can stay while enjoying the variety of cheese-making workshops and locally sourced foods offered. Nearby Kushiro Marsh is home to a variety of native flora and wildlife, particularly the endangered red-crowned crane, called tanchozuru (丹頂) in Japanese. On the verge of extinction by the mid-20th century, this elegant bird is beloved in Japan. It might look familiar, as it is featured not only in traditional Japanese art but is also the logo of Japan Airlines (JAL). It also became a symbol of peace after Sadako Sasaki, a twelve-year-old girl who later died as a result of the Hiroshima atomic bomb, folded 1000 origami cranes believing that it would grant the folder a wish. Today, only about 1,000 red-crowned cranes live around the Kushiro Marsh. Don’t miss the opportunity to see and feed these majestic birds at the Tsurui-Ito Tancho Sanctuary from October to March.

8. Gokayama (Toyama)

Gokayama (五箇山) in Toyama Prefecture is located 10 km north of Shirakawa-go and is considered its less touristy sibling. Gokayama, like Shirakawa-go, is a mountain village surrounded by mountain peaks with lush rice fields and old Japanese-style homes. Gokayama serves up a timeless image of the picturesque Japanese countryside. The area is known for producing gunpowder. Perhaps more relevantly, Gokayama is also famous for its soba noodles and tofu. Stop by the 350-year-old, gassho-style Murakami house for a tour of historical tools and documents. Designated as an Important Cultural Property by the Japanese government, Murakami house provides a glimpse into the history and culture of Gokayama. Then, enjoy traditional soba and tofu at Jippensha, located in front of Murakami House. Together with Shirakawa-Go, Gokayama is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

9. Hayakawa (Yamanashi)

Hayakawa (早川町) has the honor of being Japan’s lowest populated municipality while having the second largest land area. This makes for wide open spaces, no lines, and unobstructed mountain views. This area includes the historical town of Akasawa-Shuku, a post town dating back to the 13th century Kamakura Period. Today, you can still see many of these ancient structures amidst the small shops and restaurants. One of these restaurants is Musashiya, which sells handmade meal sets of soba and tempura. Take a nature tour of the mountain village of Mogura, often known as the “Macchu Picchu of Japan”. Don’t miss the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to try waterfall meditation (“takigyo” in Japanese) at Bentendo, a 23 meter waterfall that is open for meditation in all seasons except winter. The road to Bentendo Waterfall winds through a deep valley surrounded by the lush mountain forests and emerald waters; don’t forget to stop and take in the gorgeous scenery.

10. Matsuzaki (Shizuoka)

Matsuzaki (松崎町) is a quiet coastal town on the Izu peninsula in Shizuoka prefecture . The only way to access this town is by bus: it is a 2-hour ride from Mishima station or an hour and 45 minutes by bus from Shuzenji station. Its remote location has allowed this port town to retain its historical heritage with relatively minimum influence from industrial development and heavy tourism. This is the town to visit in Izu if you want a relaxed and original environment. During the Edo period, Matsuzaki port flourished from the shipment of rocks produced in Izu to build Edo Castle. Matsuzaki’s small size makes it perfect for walking around at your own pace. Tour old merchant buildings, take a walk along the lovely Naka River, lined with cherry blossoms in the spring, or go just outside town to visit the verdant rice terraces of Ishibu.

These are our picks for the 10 most beautiful villages in Japan. Each has something special to offer, so whether you are planning a trip immersed in nature or taking a country detour from a city visit, there is something for you. For more detailed information and tips about traveling here and around Japan, check out these articles below!

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Exploring the Japanese Countryside

If you have a car and a map, Japan is your oyster!

I am lucky enough to be working as an ALT (Assistant Language Teacher) for the JET Programme. What this entails, aside of course from the actual job itself, is being placed in a town most people you know have never heard of and expected to start a life there.

The reason I am telling you this is because when I first heard of my placement, Asagiri - a small town in the South of Kumamoto, in the heart of the countryside - I couldn't even begin to imagine what it would be like. It's so small, of course there are no 'must-see sights', no 'things to do' and nothing really an internet search could tell me. It was clearly not considered a tourist attraction.

But what I discovered from living here is that what the internet knows about a place doesn't necessarily correlate to what the place has to offer. Because honestly, I have seen more beauty in this area in one year that I have in my whole life (and I've done my fair share of travelling!). I am definitely biased; I know that. And also, having been here for a long time has meant I've witnessed the beautiful sunsets, the rice harvesting days, the stormy skies and the cherry blossoms of spring that you might not see if you just visited for a day. But whilst living here, I've traveled to lots of other middle-of-nowhere towns and been equally amazed. Japan's countryside really is stunning. The mountains, the rice fields, the rivers, the little shops that can't possibly have customers, the combini in every village, the quirky things you spot on the side of the road, like an egg-vending-machine and then the actual vending machines. 

It's very easy to do as well. Japan puts all their road signs in English; even in the towns you'd think no tourist would ever visit. That includes place names as well as any 'points of interest'; like statues, waterfalls, shrines, temples etc. Also, when I travel around the countryside, I try to avoid the highways. Not only does that mean you don't have to pay tolls, but from experience the 'back roads' are kept in excellent condition and generally reward you with a lot more to see. Instead of cutting through the mountains with tunnels like the highway, you get to wind between the mountains and over them.

The countryside might not possess 'must see sights' and there might not be 'things to do', but if you have a car, or can rent a car, I really encourage you to choose a town on a map; one you've never heard of, and just drive there. And enjoy the drive, because that's part of the adventure. And when you get there, there might be nothing to do, but go into the local supermarket, try the local onsen, eat at a local restaurant, drive around the rice field roads, and look at the road signs because often you'll see 'attractions' like statues, caves, waterfalls etc. that the internet didn't even know existed. It might be a disaster, but it will definitely be an adventure. And you'll get to experience a side of Japan that tourists never do!

[All the photos I've included are of places I just found; no prior planning, just my car and my camera!]

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By Olivia Lee

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“Uncovering the Hidden Gems: Japan’s Enchanting Rural Countryside”

🌾🏞️ Welcome to our blog post on exploring Japan’s enchanting rural countryside! 🌸🍃 Get ready to leave the bustling cityscape behind and immerse yourself in Japan’s hidden gems’ serenity and natural beauty.

While Japan is known for its vibrant cities and cutting-edge technology, its rural areas offer a captivating contrast and a chance to connect with nature on a deeper level.

🌳🌼 From the majestic mountains of Hokkaido to the picturesque rice terraces of Kyushu, rural Japan is a treasure trove of breathtaking landscapes, traditional culture, and warm hospitality.

Join me as I share some of rural Japan’s best-kept secrets and must-visit destinations.

🌿 Discover the tranquility of the Japanese countryside as you stroll through ancient forests, where sunlight filters through the canopy, casting a magical glow on moss-covered paths.

Hear the gentle rustle of bamboo leaves as you wander through bamboo groves, creating an ethereal atmosphere that transports you to another world. 🎍✨

Venture into quaint villages tucked away in the mountains, where time seems to stand still.

Experience the simple pleasures of rural life as you interact with friendly locals, indulge in regional delicacies made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and witness time-honored traditions that have been passed down through generations. 🏞️🍜🌾

For nature enthusiasts, the rural landscapes of Japan offer a paradise of outdoor adventures.

Hike along scenic trails that lead to mesmerizing waterfalls, where the cascading waters create a soothing soundtrack that echoes through the valleys.

Marvel at the awe-inspiring beauty of blooming cherry blossoms in spring or vibrant autumn foliage that paints the countryside in red, orange, and gold hues. 🌸🍁🏞️

Be Amazed By These Hidden Gems Secrets Of Rural Japan

In this blog post, we will unveil hidden treasures such as the charming village of Shirakawa-go, renowned for its traditional thatched-roof houses that transport you back in time.

Explore the idyllic landscapes of the Seto Inland Sea, dotted with picturesque islands and fishing villages that offer a glimpse into Japan’s maritime heritage. 🏯⛵🌊

Whether you seek solitude in the serene countryside or an immersive cultural experience, Japan’s rural areas have something to offer every traveler.

Uncover the secrets of rural Japan, immerse yourself in the warmth of its local communities, and create memories that will last a lifetime. 🌾🗺️✨

So pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and embark on a journey to the heart of Japan’s rural charm.

Let the tranquility of the countryside rejuvenate your soul and leave you with a profound appreciation for the beauty of Japan beyond its vibrant cities. 🚶‍♀️🌅🌳

Shirakawa-go Is One Of Gifu Hidden Gems

Located in the Gifu Prefecture, Shirakawa-go is a picturesque village famous for its traditional thatched-roof houses. The town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it’s easy to see why.

The houses are beautifully preserved and look like something straight out of a fairy tale. It’s a great place to stroll and soak in the charming atmosphere.

I visited Shirakawa-go during the winter; it was a truly magical experience.

The snow-covered thatched-roof houses looked like something out of a postcard.

I also had the opportunity to try some of the local cuisine, including the famous Hida beef. It was one of the most memorable meals of my trip.

Also located in the Gifu Prefecture, Takayama is another charming town worth visiting. It’s known for its well-preserved old town, lined with traditional Japanese buildings.

There are also several museums in the area, which offer a glimpse into the town’s rich history and culture. You should attend the Takayama Festival twice yearly in the spring and fall.

The festival celebrates the town’s history and culture, featuring elaborate floats and traditional performances. It is a truly unique experience, and it’s something that you will never forget.

Located in the Tochigi Prefecture, Nikko is a beautiful town famous for its stunning temples and shrines. Mountains and forests surround the area, which makes it an excellent place for hiking and exploring.

If you visit Nikko during the fall, you can enjoy the stunning foliage.

The temples and shrines are also beautiful, and the intricate details of the buildings will amaze you.

Trying local delicacies, including yuba (tofu skin) and Manju (sweet buns), is also a must, and it is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Located in the Tokushima Prefecture, the Iya Valley is a remote and rugged area known for its stunning natural scenery.

The valley is surrounded by cliffs and deep valleys, which make it a great place for hiking and exploring.

You should stay at a traditional Japanese inn or Ryokan if you go there.

The inn is usually in a secluded area, and you will feel miles and miles away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

A guided hike through the valley is a great way to experience the area’s natural beauty.

Oboke Gorge

Also located in the Tokushima Prefecture, the Oboke Gorge is a scenic area known for its cliffs and clear emerald waters. The Yoshino River, which runs through the gorge, is famous for rafting and kayaking.

The site also has hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Oboke Gorge sights blow away people’s minds with the area’s natural beauty.

The emerald waters of the Yoshino River are crystal clear, and the cliffs that line the gorge makes for a dramatic backdrop. If you go kayaking, you will love every minute of it.

The rapids are exhilarating, and you will be able to see the valley uniquely.

Kurokawa Onsen

Kurokawa Onsen is a hot spring town in the Kumamoto Prefecture.

The town is known for its rustic, traditional atmosphere and is a great place to relax and unwind.

The area has many hot spring baths, and visitors can also enjoy a stroll through the town’s narrow streets, lined with traditional shops and restaurants.

If you visit Kurokawa Onsen, enjoy its water because it is the perfect place to unwind and recharge.

The hot springs are incredibly relaxing, and the town has a traditional feel.

It would help if you even tried some local snacks, like Mochi and Dango, which are delicious.

The End Of Our Japan Countryside Hidden Gems Journey

In conclusion, exploring Japan’s enchanting rural countryside is an experience that will leave you in awe of the country’s natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality.

🌾🗺️✨ From tranquil forests to idyllic villages, each destination offers a unique glimpse into the heart and soul of rural Japan.

🚶‍♀️🌅🌳 Whether you seek peaceful solitude, outdoor adventures, or an immersive cultural experience, the countryside has something to offer every traveler.

Let the tranquility and charm of rural Japan rejuvenate your soul and leave you with lasting memories.

🌸🍃 So pack your bags, embark on a journey to the countryside, and discover the true essence of Japan beyond its vibrant cities. 🌳🌸🏞️

• The Best Waterfalls in Kyushu: Enjoying the Island’s Natural Beauty

The Best Parks in Tokyo That Will Amaze You

• “Top of the World: Mystical Summit Experience Of Mount Fuji”
• “Kumamoto Serenity: Unmasking The Secrets Of Its Natural Wonders”

The Best Beach Resorts in Shikoku

Shirakawa-go | Travel Japan (Japan National Tourism Organization)

Hida Takayama | Gifu | Tokai | Destinations | Travel Japan (Japan National Tourism Organization)

Nikko | Tochigi | Kanto | Destinations | Travel Japan (Japan National Tourism Organization)

Iya Valley | Tokushima | Shikoku | Destinations | Travel Japan (Japan National Tourism Organization)

Oboke & Koboke | Travel Japan (Japan National Tourism Organization)

Kurokawa Onsen | Travel Japan (Japan National Tourism Organization)

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Japan Countryside Wonders: Unveiling the Charms of Rural Beauty

The Japan countryside, a serene tapestry of natural beauty and ancient traditions, beckons travellers to its tranquil and untouched landscapes. Imagine walking through verdant rice fields, breathing in the fresh, crisp air, and witnessing the slow-paced, harmonious life that unfolds in the rural heartlands. Time seems to stand still here, and every moment invites you to connect with the profound spirituality and rustic charm that define the Japanese rural experience. As you venture beyond the urban sprawl, you’re greeted by picturesque villages, sacred shrines nestled in lush forests, and warm, welcoming locals who embody the spirit of ‘omotenashi’ or Japanese hospitality. The countryside of Japan is not just a destination; it’s a journey back in time, a chance to partake in age-old festivals, savour farm-fresh delicacies, and immerse yourself in the art of simplicity. For the traveller seeking solace and inspiration, the Japan countryside offers a mosaic of unforgettable experiences that resonate with the soul’s longing for beauty and tranquillity. Are you Ready to discover the rural beauty of Japan? Let’s dive in with Designer Journeys !

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Why should you visit rural Japan | Japan’s Countryside?

1. kamikochi, nagano, 2. hakone, kanagawa, 3. mount aso, kumamoto, 4. yakushima, kagoshima, 5. shiretoko, hokkaido, 6. kabira bay, ishigaki, 7. iya valley, tokushima, 8. nikko, tochigi​​, 9. mount daisen, tottori, 10. shimoda, shizuoka, 11. zao, yamagata, 12. chino, nagano, 13. lake akan, hokkaido, 14. yanbaru national park, okinawa, 15. shonai, yamagata, 16. shimanto, kochi​, 17. shirakawa-go, gifu, 18. kamakura, kanagawa, 19. kiso valley, nagano, 20. naoshima, kagawa, japanese countryside: final thoughts.

Japan’s countryside offers an escape from the fast-paced.

Japan’s countryside offers an escape from the fast-paced, high-tech urban centres, revealing a side of Japan that is tranquil, natural, and deeply connected to historical and cultural roots. Here are several compelling reasons why the rural beauty of Japan should be on every traveller’s itinerary:

• Unparalleled Scenic Beauty : Japan’s countryside is dotted with picturesque landscapes that change dramatically with the seasons. From the pink hues of cherry blossoms in spring to the fiery reds and oranges of autumn leaves, each season paints the rural landscape with its own palette of colours. The snow-covered villages in winter and the lush green terraces in summer are sights to behold, offering photographers and nature lovers endless opportunities for exploration and admiration.
• Cultural Immersion : The rural areas of Japan are the keepers of tradition, offering a glimpse into the country’s rich history and cultural heritage. Visiting these areas allows you to experience age-old customs, attend local festivals, and see traditional crafts in action. It’s a chance to see a side of Japan that persists in its authentic form, from tea ceremonies and kimono weaving to samurai homes and ancient temples.
• Tranquillity and Mindfulness : In our fast-paced world, the tranquillity of Japan’s rural areas offers a much-needed respite. The serene environment, often accompanied by the sounds of flowing rivers or rustling leaves, invites visitors to slow down and practice mindfulness. It’s an opportunity to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature and oneself.
• Unique Culinary Experiences : Rural Japan offers a bounty of gastronomic delights, many of which are unique to specific regions. From farm-to-table dining experiences to local sake breweries, visitors can indulge in fresh, seasonal, and regional specialities. Each locality has its own unique flavours and culinary techniques, providing a feast for the senses and a deep dive into Japan’s diverse culinary landscape.
• Outdoor Adventures : Japan’s countryside offers many activities for those who love the great outdoors. Hike through ancient forests, cycle scenic coastal paths, or kayak down clear rivers. The varied terrain of rural Japan, including its mountains, forests, and coastlines, is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream.
• Spiritual Journeys : Many of Japan’s rural areas are steeped in spiritual significance, home to sacred shrines and temples that have been pilgrimage sites for centuries. These places offer a peaceful and contemplative environment where visitors can learn about Japan’s religious traditions or even partake in spiritual practices such as meditation or prayer.
• Warm Hospitality : The countryside is where you’ll experience ‘Omotenashi,’ the Japanese spirit of hospitality. The locals in rural areas often embody this welcoming spirit, offering warmth and hospitality that makes visitors feel like part of the community. It’s not uncommon to leave with new friends and heartfelt memories.

By visiting Japan’s rural areas, travellers embark on a journey that’s not just about seeing new places but about experiencing a different pace of life, connecting with history, nature, and local traditions, and discovering Japan’s deep-rooted spirit and beauty. It’s an enriching experience that stays with you long after you’ve returned home.

Best Places to Enjoy the Japanese Countryside | Rural Japanese Life

The Japanese countryside is dotted with rural destinations that offer a retreat into nature and tradition. Each location is a unique tapestry of scenic beauty, natural light, and cultural depth, promising experiences that resonate with peace, adventure, and discovery. Here are some of the best places to immerse yourself in the rural charm of Japan:

Kamikochi, a highland valley nestled in the Northern Japan Alps of Nagano Prefecture, is a scenic jewel that offers an unparalleled experience of Japan’s natural beauty. Sitting at an altitude of about 1,500 meters, this remote paradise is a gateway to soaring peaks, pristine forests, and a river so clear it mirrors the sky. The Azusa River flows through the valley, its crystal-clear waters a testament to the untouched nature surrounding it.

Kamikochi is one of the best places to enjoy Japan countryside.

As you enter Kamikochi, you are greeted by the iconic Kappa Bridge, a wooden suspension bridge offering spectacular views of the Hotaka Mountain Range and the bubbling Azusa River below. This spot is a favourite for photographers aiming to capture the essence of Kamikochi’s scenic beauty. The area is a haven for nature lovers and hikers, with well-maintained trails leading through lush forests, alongside tranquil ponds, and into the heart of the Japanese Alps.

One of the most enchanting aspects of Kamikochi is its changing scenery with the seasons. In spring, the valley is adorned with the delicate pink of cherry blossoms and the fresh green of new leaves. Summer brings a verdant landscape with wildflowers and an opportunity to spot wildlife, including monkeys and birds. Autumn is perhaps the most spectacular time to visit, as the valley is set ablaze with fiery autumn colours, creating a breathtaking contrast against the evergreen pines and the rugged mountains. Even in winter, when the area is closed to the public, Kamikochi is a pristine wilderness that rests under a blanket of snow, preserving its tranquil beauty until it reawakens in spring.

For those seeking a moment of peace, the Taisho Pond offers reflective views of the surrounding mountains and countryside, creating a picture-perfect scene of natural harmony. The stillness of the water, broken only by the occasional ripple of a fish or the gentle breeze, invites visitors to pause and immerse themselves in the tranquil atmosphere.

Kamikochi is not just a destination; it’s an experience that embodies the serene and enduring beauty of Japan’s countryside. It’s a place where the hustle of modern life fades into the background, replaced by the timeless rhythm of nature and the deep cultural reverence for the surrounding landscape. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a photographer, or simply someone seeking a retreat into nature, Kamikochi offers a journey into the heart of Japan’s alpine wonderland.

Hakone, nestled in the mountainous part of Kanagawa Prefecture, is a quiet, picturesque resort town known for its onsen, natural beauty, and breathtaking view of the nearby Mt. Fuji. It’s a place where tradition and nature blend seamlessly, offering a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.

One of the most iconic experiences in Hakone is soaking in an Onsen.

One of the most iconic experiences in Hakone is soaking in an Onsen ( hot spring ). The town is scattered with many such springs, each offering a unique bathing and relaxing experience, with views of mountains, lakes, or lush forests. Many travellers come to Hakone specifically to unwind in these therapeutic waters, which are believed to have healing properties. The Hakone Open-Air Museum further complements this experience by combining art with nature, featuring sculptures and artworks set against the backdrop of the town’s natural beauty.

The Lake Ashi area is another must-visit spot in Hakone. It’s a scenic crater lake that offers stunning views of Mt. Fuji on clear days. You can take a leisurely cruise on the lake or ride the Hakone Ropeway, which provides panoramic views of the surrounding area, including the Owakudani Valley, known for its active volcanic zone and sulphur vents. The sight of steam rising from the valley adds a mystical quality to the already dramatic landscape.

Hakone’s rich history is evident in its many temples and shrines, with the Hakone Shrine being a particularly notable site. Tucked away in the dense forest and along the shores of Lake Ashi, the shrine’s torii gate over the water creates a striking image, especially when shrouded in mist.

Hakone Shrine in Japan countryside.

The Hakone Yosegi Zaiku, an intricate wooden mosaic work, is a local speciality for those interested in Japanese art and craftsmanship. Visitors can appreciate this art form in various shops and even try their hand at making their own.

The beauty of Hakone lies in its variety — whether you’re seeking relaxation, cultural immersion, or natural wonders, it offers a little bit of everything. Its accessibility from Tokyo makes it a popular destination, yet its vastness allows for moments of solitude and discovery. Hakone invites you to slow down, breathe in the mountain air, and immerse yourself in the soothing and rejuvenating spirit of the Japanese countryside.

Mount Aso, located in the heart of Kyushu, is one of Japan’s most unique and striking natural landmarks. It is the largest active volcano in Japan and among the largest in the world, with a caldera spanning about 25 kilometres. The vast caldera encloses towns, farmland, and the active volcanic peaks at its centre, creating a landscape that is both awe-inspiring and slightly daunting.

The area around Mount Aso, known as Onsen.

The central feature of Aso Mount is the Nakadake crater, which is active and often emits smoke and ash. When conditions allow, visitors can approach the crater’s rim to witness the boiling blue waters and plumes of volcanic gases — a testament to the Earth’s raw power. Its rugged beauty characterizes the surrounding landscape, with vast grasslands known as Kusasenri. These grasslands offer picturesque horseback riding and walking opportunities, allowing visitors to appreciate the expansive views and the ever-changing nature of the volcano.

The area around Mount Aso, known as Onsen, is also renowned for its hot springs. After a day of exploring the volcanic landscapes, visitors can come to the countryside of Kumamoto, Japan, to relax and rejuvenate in these healing waters, enjoying the scenic views and the region’s tranquillity. The Aso region’s Onsen vary from rustic outdoor baths in traditional houses to more modern spa facilities, providing a range of experiences to suit every preference.

Despite its active nature, Mount Aso is deeply ingrained in the local culture and is considered a spiritual place. The Aso Shrine, an important Shinto shrine, is located nearby and is thought to protect the region from volcanic eruptions. The shrine is a serene contrast to the dynamic volcano, offering a place to reflect and appreciate the natural world.

Visiting Mount Aso is an unforgettable experience that combines adventure, natural beauty, and a deep sense of awe. It’s a place where you can witness the Earth’s creative and destructive forces at play and where the landscapes tell a story of resilience and adaptation. Whether you’re standing at the edge of the crater, soaking in an Onsen, or exploring the grasslands, Mount Aso offers a profound connection to the natural world and a perspective that is both humbling and exhilarating.

Yakushima is an island off the southern coast of Kyushu in Kagoshima Prefecture, celebrated for its ancient cedar forests, some of which are thousands of years old. The island’s lush, subtropical environment, nourished by heavy rainfall, creates a landscape that feels almost otherworldly, inviting visitors into a verdant realm of moss, waterfalls, and towering trees.

The heart of Yakushima’s allure lies in its ancient cedar trees, known as Yakusugi. The most famous among them is Jomon Sugi, believed to be between 2,000 to 7,200 years old. This majestic tree has become a symbol of the island’s enduring natural beauty and is accessible through a rewarding hike through the island’s dense, mist-covered forests. The journey to Jomon Sugi is not just a hike; it’s a pilgrimage through time, as each step takes you deeper into a living history book of the natural world.

The heart of Yakushima’s allure lies in its ancient cedar trees, know as Yakusugi.

Beyond the ancient cedars, Yakushima offers diverse ecosystems, from coastal mangroves to alpine regions. The island’s numerous waterfalls, such as Oko no Taki and Senpiro no Taki, add to the dramatic scenery, cascading into cool pools. Trekking through the island’s trails, visitors might encounter Yakushima’s diverse wildlife, including the Yakushima macaque and Yaku deer, which are unique to the island’s northern region.

Yakushima’s natural beauty extends beyond its forests to its surrounding seas. The island’s coral reefs are teeming with marine life, making it a popular spot for snorkelling and diving. The clear waters and rich biodiversity provide an underwater spectacle that complements the island’s terrestrial wonders.

In recognition of its exceptional natural value, Yakushima was designated as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site in 1993. The island embodies the profound connection between humans and nature, inspiring a deep respect and a sense of environmental stewardship. Visiting Yakushima is a transformative experience, offering a retreat into one of the planet’s most enchanting and pristine natural landscapes. It’s a place where the ancient and the eternal meet, leaving visitors with a lasting sense of wonder and a deep appreciation for the natural world.

Shiretoko, situated on the north-eastern tip of Hokkaido, is one of Japan’s most beautiful and remote natural areas. This peninsula is known for its rugged beauty, diverse wildlife, and dramatic landscapes, which include mountains, forests, and the sea. The name “Shiretoko” is derived from the Ainu language, meaning “end of the Earth,” a testament to its untouched and wild nature.

One of the most distinctive features of Shiretoko is its rich biodiversity and abundant nature. The peninsula is home to various wildlife, including brown bears, foxes, deer, and numerous bird species. The surrounding waters are just as lively, with seals, whales, and other marine life. The Shiretoko Five Lakes offer a serene setting for observing the wildlife and the stunning backdrop of the peninsula’s mountains.

Shiretoko is also renowned for its dramatic waterfalls, such as the Kamuiwakka Hot Falls, a unique hot waterfall where visitors can bathe in the warm waters surrounded by nature. The Oshinkoshin Waterfall is another spectacular site called the “Twin Beauties Waterfall,” cascading down into the Sea of Okhotsk.

In winter, the peninsula becomes a wonderland of ice and snow. One of the most magical phenomena is ice drift from the Amur River in Russia, covering the sea with a floating layer of ice. This natural event creates a surreal landscape and provides a unique ecosystem for wildlife.

In winter, Shiretoko becomes a wonderland of ice and snow.

Shiretoko’s unparalleled beauty and ecological importance have earned it a UNESCO World Heritage site designation. The area is a testament to the coexistence of humans and nature, with sustainable fishing and tourism practices that ensure the preservation of its natural environment.

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Kabira Bay on Ishigaki Island is famed for its clear turquoise waters and white sandy beaches, often considered one of the most beautiful spots in Japan. The bay is also known for its cultured pearls, and while swimming is prohibited due to strong currents, glass-bottom boat tours are popular for viewing the vibrant coral reefs and marine life.

Kabira Bay is famed for its clear turquoise waters and white sandy beaches.

The subtropical climate of Ishigaki makes it a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is from April to November when the weather is warm and sunny. Kabira Bay is a perfect example of the tropical side of Japan, offering a different but equally enchanting landscape.

Iya Valley is a remote, mountainous valley in the heart of Shikoku, known for its dramatic scenery, deep gorges, and traditional vine bridges. The area is steeped in legend and history, often associated with the Heike warriors who took refuge here. The valley’s lush mountains and clear rivers offer a peaceful retreat and various outdoor activities such as hiking, rafting, and onsen.

Autumn is the best time to visit Iya Valley.

The best time to visit is in autumn, when the changing leaves create a stunning tapestry of colour. Iya Valley is a testament to Japan’s rural landscapes’ enduring beauty and mystery.

Nikko, a small city in Tochigi Prefecture, is most famous for its lavishly decorated shrines and beautiful natural scenery. The World Heritage Site, Toshogu Shrine, has intricate wood carvings and gold leaf decorations. Beyond the temples and shrines, Nikko offers the scenic beauty of Lake Chuzenji and the Kegon Falls, especially stunning in autumn when the foliage turns red and gold.

Toshogu Shrine has intricate wood carvings and gold leaf decorations.

The area is also known for its onsen, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploration. The best time to visit Nikko is in autumn for the leaves or spring for the cherry blossoms, each offering a unique and breathtaking backdrop to the historical sites.

Mount Daisen is a majestic volcanic mountain in Tottori Prefecture, often called the “Mt. Fuji of Western Japan” due to its conical shape. The mountain and its surrounding area are part of Daisen-Oki National Park, offering a variety of outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and flower viewing. The mountain trails lead through ancient beech forests and open up to panoramic views of the Japan Sea and the surrounding countryside.

Mount Daisen often called the “Mt. Fuji of Western Japan”.

The best time to visit is late spring, when the alpine flowers bloom, or autumn, for the spectacular fall colours. Mount Daisen’s imposing presence and natural beauty make it a symbol of the serene and powerful landscape of Japan’s countryside.

Shimoda, located on the Izu Peninsula in Shizuoka Prefecture, is a historic port town known for its beautiful beaches and a pivotal place where Japan opened its doors to the world during the late Edo period.

Shimoda known for its beautiful beaches.

It’s a popular seaside resort with clear, blue waters and white sandy beaches today. Lush hills surround the old town and offer onsen, stunning coastal walks, and a chance to learn about Japan’s history of maritime interaction. The best time to visit is in summer for beach activities or spring for the Shimoda Black Ship Festival, commemorating the arrival of Commodore Perry. Shimoda is a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, representing the diverse charm of Japan’s coastal countryside.

Zao is a mountain range and hot spring resort area straddling Yamagata and Miyagi Prefectures. It’s famous for its ‘snow monsters’ or ‘juhyo’, trees covered in heavy snow and ice, creating otherworldly figures.

Zao offers excellent skiing and snowboarding in winter.

The area offers excellent skiing and snowboarding in winter and beautiful hiking trails in summer. The town of Zao Onsen provides a perfect retreat with its sulfuric onsen, which is known for its healing properties. The best time to visit is in winter for the snow monsters and skiing or in summer for comfortable weather and green landscapes. Zao’s unique natural phenomena and relaxing hot springs make it a distinctive destination in the Japanese countryside.

Chino is a city in Nagano Prefecture that offers a gateway to the breathtaking highlands of the Tateshina Plateau and the Yatsugatake Mountains. The area is known for its beautiful highland scenery, onsen, and agricultural produce, including high-quality soba noodles.

Chino has beautiful highland scenery.

Visitors coming to Chino, one of the Japanese countryside towns, can enjoy hiking, visiting art museums, and soaking in an ocean with views of the surrounding mountains. The best time to visit Chino is in summer for its comfortable temperatures and lush greenery or in autumn for its spectacular fall foliage. Chino’s blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and culinary delights make it a captivating destination in the Japanese countryside.

Lake Akan, located in Akan Mashu National Park in Hokkaido, is famous for its clear blue water and the unique marimo algae balls that grow there. The area is also known for its onsen and the Ainu Kotan, a small village where visitors can learn about the indigenous Ainu culture and crafts. The surrounding forests and mountains offer excellent opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and winter sports.

Lake Akan is famous for its clear blue water.

The best time to visit is in summer for the mild weather and outdoor activities or in winter for the snow-covered landscape and ice fishing on the frozen lake. Lake Akan’s natural beauty and cultural significance make it a must-visit destination for those seeking a deeper understanding of Japan’s natural and cultural heritage.

Yanbaru National Park, located in the northern part of Okinawa Island , is known for its subtropical rainforests and rare wildlife, including the Okinawa rail, a bird found nowhere else in the world. The area’s dense forests, rivers, and waterfalls starkly contrast with the typical beach image of Okinawa, providing a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Yanbaru National Park known for its subtropical rainforests and rare wildlife.

Visitors can enjoy trekking, kayaking, and bird watching in this lush and unspoiled environment. The best time to visit is in spring when the weather is mild, and the forest is vibrant with new growth, or in autumn for comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. Yanbaru National Park is a unique destination that showcases the rich biodiversity and natural beauty of Okinawa’s countryside.

Shonai, located on the Sea of Japan coast in Yamagata Prefecture, is an area rich in history and natural beauty. It’s known for its scenic rice terraces, traditional samurai residences, and the sacred mountains of Dewa Sanzan, representing the birth, death, and rebirth in the Shugendo tradition.

Shonai, one of the Japanese countryside located in Yamagata Prefecture.

Visitors can explore historic towns, enjoy fresh produce and seafood, and hike to the three sacred mountains for spiritual rejuvenation. The best time to visit Shonai is in summer for the lush green rice fields and local festivals or in autumn for the harvest season and colourful foliage. Shonai’s blend of natural, cultural heritage and spiritual significance makes it a compelling destination for those seeking a deeper connection with Japan’s rural landscape.

Shimanto is known as the “last clear stream” of Japan, located in Kochi Prefecture on Shikoku Island. The Shimanto River is the main attraction here, famous for its pristine waters and the unique, low-water bridges called “chinkabashi” that are submerged during floods.

Shimanto is known as the last clear stream of Japan, located on Shikoku Island.

Visitors can enjoy canoeing or rafting down the river, cycling along its banks, or simply soaking in the tranquil atmosphere of the surrounding countryside. The area is also known for its rich agricultural produce, including yuzu and bonito. The best time to visit Shimanto is in spring for the mild weather and lush greenery or in autumn for the harvest season and beautiful fall colours. Shimanto offers a peaceful retreat from the city and an opportunity to connect with the unspoiled nature of rural Japan.

Shirakawa-go is a historic village nestled in the mountains of Gifu Prefecture, famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, some of which are over 250 years old. The architectural style, characterized by steep thatched roofs, was designed to withstand heavy snowfall.

Shirakawa-go famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses.

The village is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, providing a glimpse into Japan’s rural past. In winter, the snow-covered landscape transforms the village into a fairy-tale scene, while spring and summer offer lush greenery and wildflowers. Visitors can stay in one of the farmhouses, experience traditional rural life, and explore the surrounding nature. Shirakawa-go is a testament to Japan’s countryside’s enduring beauty and cultural significance.

Kamakura is a coastal town in Kanagawa Prefecture, known for its historical significance as the former capital of Japan and its numerous temples, shrines, and monuments. The town offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty, with its sandy beaches, forested hills, and the iconic Great Buddha statue.

Kamakura offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty of Japanese countryside.

Visitors can explore the historic sites, enjoy hiking in the surrounding hills, or relax on the beach. Kamakura’s relaxed atmosphere and rich history make it a popular destination for those looking to experience the cultural and natural beauty of the Japanese countryside.

Kiso Valley, part of the Nakasendo trail, is famous for its well-preserved post towns, including Tsumago and Magome, which transport visitors back to the Edo period. The valley offers a picturesque hike through forests and mountains, connecting the historic towns.

Hiking through the Kiso Valley trails of the Nagano.

Travelers can enjoy the serene natural scenery, traditional inns, and local cuisine along the way. The rural area is also known for its woodworking and lacquerware crafts. The best time to visit Kiso Valley is in autumn for the spectacular fall foliage or in spring for the cherry blossoms and mild weather. Kiso Valley is a journey through stunning landscapes and a walk through history, offering a deeper understanding of Japan’s rural heritage.

Naoshima is an island in the Seto Inland Sea known as a hub for contemporary art and architecture, with several museums and installations scattered across its landscape. The island’s art projects, including the famous Chichu Art Museum and Benesse House, blend seamlessly with the natural scenery, offering a unique cultural experience.

Enjoy the Japanese countryside vibes in Naoshima.

Visitors can also enjoy the island’s beaches and relaxed atmosphere. The best time to visit is in spring or autumn when the weather is pleasant and the natural beauty complements the art installations. Naoshima provides a unique blend of modern art and rural tranquillity, making it a must-visit destination for international artists and those seeking a different perspective on Japan’s countryside.

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As our journey through the Japanese countryside comes to a close, it’s clear that these rural landscapes offer more than just a scenic backdrop. They testify to Japan’s deep respect for nature and tradition, providing a window into the country’s soul. The countryside of Japan is not just a place to visit but also to connect, reflect, and be inspired. Each destination we’ve explored offers its own unique charm and story, inviting travellers to immerse themselves in the beauty and tranquillity of rural Japan.

The countryside of Japan is not just a place to visit but also to connect, reflect, and be inspired.

In the end, the Japanese countryside is a reminder of the simple pleasures in life. It’s about savouring the moment, whether watching the sunrise over a mountain peak, soaking in a hot spring under the stars, or enjoying a meal made with locally sourced ingredients. It’s about connecting with the land and its people, understanding the delicate balance between humans and nature. The countryside offers a slower pace of life than the city does, allowing us to appreciate the world around us and find joy in the everyday.

As you plan your journey to Japan’s rural beauty, remember that it’s not just about the destinations you visit but the experiences you have along the way. Take the time to wander off the beaten path, engage with locals, and embrace the unexpected. The Japanese countryside is waiting to reveal its wonders, offering a journey that will touch your heart and leave you with memories that last a lifetime.

Quang Nguyen

Hi!! I'm Quang, a travel enthusiast, photographer and creator from Quang Binh. Here, I share captivating stories and stunning visuals from my journeys across Vietnam and beyond. Find me on Instagram for more travel inspiration!

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Secret Kyoto: A Guide to the Area’s Countryside and Lesser Known Attractions

November 30, 2018 Updated On December 26, 2022

T ravelers flock to Kyoto for the temples,   shrines, and geisha – all certainly must-see cultural points – but few tourists realize that there ’s a whole prefecture beyond the city itself.   Getting out of the city and exploring the broader landscape of Kyoto opens up a wealth of possibilities for exciting adventure, unique food and drink, and some wonderful surprises along the way. 

Southward into Greenery

Some of Japan’s most renowned tea farms are located just to the south of Kyoto city, and the Wazuka-cho tea fields are a great place to begin exploring the world of Japanese green tea. The scenery here is top notch, and some local growers have opened their fields to visitors. They can show you how to pick tea straight from the neatly trimmed hedgerows crawling over the hillsides. In no time at all, your hands will be flittering over the dark green tea bushes, expertly seeking out the finest leaves.

After working the fields, it’s only natural to want to sample the local flavors properly. D:Matcha Cafe is a perfect spot to try an attractive sampling course of a variety of teas for your tasting enjoyment; Yabukita, subtle and smooth; Okumidori, with a sharp kick; Gokou, an expanding spiral of tastes when served at varying temperatures. For tea fans with a sweet tooth, an assorted sampling platter of ice cream infused with five different local teas is the perfect snack.

Matcha tea has exploded in popularity overseas recently, and Kyoto’s undisputed hotspot for matcha has to be Uji. This charming riverside town just south of Kyoto city is bursting with tea culture, and visitors can experience the famous tea ceremony for themselves at Taihoan teahouse next to the Uji Tourist Info Center. Guests can enjoy a fresh wagashi sweet and watch a professional tea expert perform the ceremony in an elegant, authentic atmosphere. After the demonstration, you can try mixing a bowl yourself, using traditional utensils and high quality – and great tasting – matcha tea.

Surprising Suburb Secrets

Hidden in the western suburbs of Kyoto city are some secret spots that the tourists still haven’t discovered, and it’s well worth taking some time to explore the area.

The Take-no-michi bamboo trail is only a short taxi ride from Higashi-Muko Station, and serves as a wonderful alternative for the tourist-filled Arashiyama bamboo forest. For those hoping to snap some shots without all the crowds, the empty pathways and peaceful groves at the bamboo trail are beyond perfect.

Adventurous eaters who like their food spicy should check out the Gekikara Shotengai neighborhood near Mukomachi Station. Dozens of restaurants offer incredibly hot food here, and Minmin is the fieriest of them all. When preparing his infamous Grim Reaper Fried Rice, the chef wears an air filter mask to protect his lungs.

Rakusai Chikurin Bamboo Park

On the Keihan rail line between Kyoto and Osaka, hop off at Yawatashi Station for some excellent scenery. Shokado Garden offers a Japanese landscape with several rustic teahouses expertly situated in the layout. With more than 40 kinds of bamboo planted here, the garden is filled with creative landscape compositions and some truly spectacular scenery.

One of Kyoto’s best secret temples lies in these urban outskirts. There’s a good chance you’ll be the only visitor at Yanagidani Temple , but it’s not for want of excellent surroundings. There’s plenty to explore here, from richly decorated altars to vibrantly painted Buddhist statues. The main complex holds a fantastic garden that is quite possibly Kyoto’s best example of embracing verticality in landscape design. The gods tumbling down from heaven on clouds to greet you is immediately apparent in this inspired layout.

Another fun destination lies to the west in Kameoka. This region is accessible via train from Kyoto Station, or by taking the Sagano Romantic Train directly from Arashiyama. In early autumn, Kameoka’s famous cosmos flowers are in bloom and make for some attractive photos. But Kameoka’s best-kept secret is a traditional one. Yuya Nakanishi is Kyoto’s only remaining blacksmith making traditional swords, and only one of only about 80 remaining swordsmiths in all of Japan.

In his workshop in a traditional farmhouse surrounded by forest, guests can watch him heat the iron in a hand operated forge and fold it over onto itself to create beautiful blades. If you want to take home a blade of your own, Nakanishi will host you for a private lesson, carefully instructing you as you learn to craft your own short sword or knife. This hands-on activity is a great way to get a feel for a traditional form of craftsmanship that is rarely practiced nowadays.

Yuya Nakanishi

Northern Hinterland Charm

When you’re ready for the full countryside experience, hop on the Kinosaki Limited Express train bound northward out of Kyoto Station. The rural scenery in this corner of Kyoto is deeply impressive. Thickly forested hillsides and open swaths of rice paddies are dotted with wooden farmhouses, some still sporting traditional thatched roofs.

Upon arrival in the sleepy coastal town of Kumihama, hail a taxi and head straight for Kinoshita sake brewery . Known for its sake named Tamagawa, the brewery is a treasure that deserves the attention of anyone who has an interest in Japanese spirits. The master brewer here is an Englishman, truly a rare twist in a scene that is usually fiercely traditional. Philip Harper revitalized this centuries-old local institution, and now produces a variety of sake so unique that it needs to be tasted to be understood.

Tamagawa Sake

Philip Harper

Harper says not to let the fact that it was brewed by a foreigner distract you. His eagerness to experiment is what makes Tamagawa special. Most sake brewers sell their product as soon as it’s ready, but Harper’s key to unlocking the true potential of the spirit is to age it. The vast difference in taste between a one-year and three-year sake is noteworthy, and adds a fun layer to sampling the variety at Kinoshita. For a real eye-opening experience, try the Time Machine Vintage brew. Created following a recipe from 1712, this one will shake up the way you think about sake.

The northern coast isn’t without its special cuisine to match the fine alcohol produced here. Barazushi is a local treat that was once served only for special occasions, but can now be eaten any time. Think of a layer cake, but instead of sugar and frosting, the layers are vinegared rice and simmered mackerel fish. Topped with a generous helping of shredded egg, delicate vegetables, and slivers of pickled ginger, this dish will satisfy your appetite for local flavor. Barazushi is best tried at Katagiya, a family-owned restaurant where the recipe has been passed down for generations.

For a taste of country living in ages past, check out the Chirimen Kaido district, only a short bus ride west of Amanohashidate. The town of Yosano was once a bustling center for the production of chirimen, a delicate silk crepe fabric.

The Bitou Residence remains as a testament to the town’s handicraft heritage and former glory days. Now a museum, the Bitou family home grew into a large estate of multiple buildings housing residence areas, workhalls, and storehouses. Much of the house is preserved as it existed in 1863, yet there are a few rooms added in 1928 with a distinctively Western flair and a muted hint of Art Deco.

The freedom that visitors are given to walk through the compound and explore is unprecedented for a historical site like this. Seeing daily-use objects from the 19th century up close and in their original setting is a great way to get in touch with how prosperous locals once lived here.

Kyoto by the Sea

One of the finest lesser-known treasures in northern Kyoto is the fishing village of Ine , set among natural harbors of stunningly clear water and tiny rocky islands. The unique houses here have a first floor that opens up directly to the water, creating a tight row of charming boat garages for local fishing skiffs.

Free rental cycles are offered at several points throughout Ine, making getting around town is easy. Take a ride on the local sightseeing ferry to get a waterside view of the boat houses, and be sure to try the town’s famous red sake. The local tourism office offers maps and helpful ideas for planning your day. This destination is one of the best rural seaside destinations left undiscovered by travelers to Kyoto, and is well worth the time it takes to get there by bus along the beautiful coastline.

Amanohashinodate

Northern Kyoto is also home to scenery worthy of the Shinto gods. Amanohashidate is a long pinetree-covered sandbar stretching across the bay in Miyazu. Said to be the fallen ladder that the gods used to climb down to their favorite beach, this natural landmark has been known as one of the three best scenic views in Japan since 1643.

There’s no better spot to take in the heavenly landscape than from Amanohashidate Viewland. This small amusement park atop the hills on the southern end of the sandbar offers a classic view captured in art for centuries, but there’s a unique twist here. When seen upside down by bending over and peering through your legs, the sandbar is said to resemble a dragon flying into the sky.

Try it for yourself and see if the gods were right to choose this slice of earthly heaven for their private beachside playground.

Photographs by Robert Kirsch

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Boutique Japan

Tokyo and the Japanese Countryside (6 Days)

A 6-day Japan itinerary featuring incredible food, charming backstreets, and a sublime selection of modern and traditional experiences.

This immersive private trip is designed especially for travelers who crave off-the-beaten-path experiences, amazing cuisine, and boutique accommodations.

Experience Tokyo from a local’s perspective, with insightful explorations, unforgettable outings, and mouthwatering meals. Then retreat to the countryside for an ultra-relaxing stay at a gorgeous traditional property where your worries will melt away.

Itinerary Highlights

• An immersive private itinerary, crafted with love by  Boutique Japan
• Tokyo, one of the world’s most exciting — and surprisingly charming — cities
• A rejuvenating stay in the Japanese countryside
• Beautiful accommodations
• Unique private tours and experiences with fun and knowledgeable local experts
• Amazing food
• Seamless logistics and in-country transport
• Extensive pre-departure information to help you prepare for your trip
• Access to our in-depth Japan expertise, relationships, and firsthand experience
• A Japan specialist to answer your questions, and thoughtful customer service

Effortless Planning

Unlike our usual  custom trips , this is a set itinerary.

After all, some travelers relish  the process  of planning a custom trip, but many others love the simplicity of  booking  an amazing itinerary with the click of a button. All you need to do is decide when you’d like to visit (the trip is planned around your preferred travel dates).

Tessa Scher, Cape Town

We have just returned from an outstanding 19-day holiday in Japan thanks to Boutique Japan. I cannot recommend this travel company highly enough. From the beginning to the end their service, attention to detail, advice and support were incredible. We have traveled extensively but Boutique Japan is by far the best travel agency that we… Read More

Kellie T., Wisconsin

I just want to thank everyone at Boutique Japan, because this was truly a trip of a lifetime! I could not have done it without all your help. I just can’t believe how meticulously coordinated everything was and the incredible thoughtfulness and kindness from all of you, my guides, hotel/ryokan staff, and everyone I met… Read More

Casey & TJ, New York City

Boutique Japan designed the perfect luxury honeymoon. Organizing a trip can be a challenging task, so we were thrilled to find someone as knowledgeable and easy to work with. We were consistently impressed with the attention to detail in each element of the journey. Boutique Japan exceeded our expectations. From booking truly impressive accommodations to… Read More

Keri and Marvin, Los Angeles

We really had a terrific trip! Can't thank you enough for the thoughtful planning and recommendations along the way. From Naoshima for the guys (a huge highlight), to the magical Kyoto of temples, bamboo forests and geishas, to sumo in Osaka, through the restful ryokan and walking around Shuzenji Onsen on a rainy day, and… Read More

Itinerary Overview

Fly into either of Tokyo’s airports, Narita (NRT) or Haneda (HND).

You can depart from either of Tokyo’s airports, or you may decide to spend additional time following the trip exploring Japan independently.

Day 1 : Arrive in Tokyo, Japan Day 2 : Markets and Cuisine, Neighborhood Strolls, and  Izakaya  Outing Day 3 : Old-Fashioned Tokyo Backstreets, Ramen Lunch, and High-End Sushi Reservations Day 4 : Off-the-Beaten-Path Cycling Tour, and Final Evening in Tokyo Day 5 : Tradition and Luxury in the Japanese Countryside* Day 6 : Relaxing Morning at Leisure, and Departure

*For your time in the countryside, choose between two lovely areas: the lush Izu Peninsula (pictured at top of page) or the coastal town of Kamakura (see  Day 5  for details).

Itinerary Details

Day 1: arrive in tokyo, japan.

Welcome to Japan!

On arrival in Tokyo, you’ll be met and escorted to your private vehicle for the comfortable transfer from the airport to your stylish accommodations. Settle in, adjust to your exciting new surroundings, and get ready for your adventure ahead!

Depending on your flight’s scheduled arrival time we typically recommend keeping your first evening free, both in case of unexpected flight delays, and also to account for possible fatigue from the long journey.

Some people stay in after the flight to wake up re-energized the following morning, but in case you’d like to venture out we will include a short list of great suggestions, and the helpful staff at your hotel will also have insightful recommendations!

YOUR HOTEL IN TOKYO

Choose one of these small, stylish, and convenient hotel options for your stay in Tokyo:

• TRUNK Hotel Tokyo  (Standard + Balcony Room)
• K5 Tokyo  (Studio Loft Floor Room)

Day 2: Markets and Cuisine, Neighborhood Strolls, and  Izakaya  Outing

Ohayou gozaimasu  (good morning)!

Today is your first full day to begin taking in the Tokyo metropolis. After a delicious breakfast at your hotel, you’ll meet up with your fun and knowledgeable private guide to begin your explorations.

What better place to start than Tokyo’s legendary  Tsukiji Market , a must-visit for food and market lovers. While the wholesale section of the fish market moved to Toyosu in 2018, Tsukiji’s lively outer market — home to historic lanes and alleys packed with a colorful array of shops and small restaurants, not to mention atmosphere and charm to spare — remains an incredible place to immerse yourself in Japanese cuisine.

From Tsukiji, walk to the nearby Ginza district to pay a visit to a beautiful  depachika  (literally, “department store basement”), a dazzling food hall renowned for its gorgeous displays and breathtaking variety, including bento boxes filled with seasonal specialties, treats from Japan’s best patisseries,  wagashi  (Japanese sweets), and much more.

Following your morning explorations, your guide will take you to enjoy lunch at a casual yet charming restaurant offering fresh and delicious Japanese  teishoku  (lunch sets). After a healthy and filling lunch, your guide will direct you back to your hotel for some downtime.

You’ll have some time this afternoon to relax at your hotel and recover from any remaining jet lag you may have, or continue exploring independently. If you’d like to keep exploring without a break, you’ll also be able to take advantage of the pre-departure materials we provide you.

In the late afternoon, your guide will meet you once more and you’ll venture out on a great neighborhood stroll before dinner. Well beyond the urban clichés (think crowds and neon), Tokyo is full of quiet,  stylish neighborhoods  where you’ll find countless hidden gems in the form of attractive backstreets and wonderful little shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Begin your walk in Naka-Meguro, a neighborhood best known for its pleasant canal district. From here walk up to the adjacent Daikanyama area, a fashionable little district full of unique shops, including the stunning Daikanyama T-Site.

End by strolling into the nearby Ebisu neighborhood, legendary in Tokyo for its lively small bars and restaurants. Here you’ll drink and dine with your guide at a casual and authentic  izakaya , where you can enjoy a quintessential Japanese-style atmosphere, and sample a delicious and eclectic variety of  Japanese food  and drink.

Catherine and Paul, Australia

We had a truly wonderful time in Japan. Lots of people have asked what was the highlight and it really is hard to pick one, or even a few. We really enjoyed the Tsukiji market, the visit to Yanaka, the Kiyosumi Garden, all the gardens in Kyoto, the evening in Osaka, the lunch with the… Read More

Gary & Shiona, Australia

We are just settling back after a truly wonderful trip during which every aspect was quite special. The itinerary was full of highlights, superbly structured and finely organized – even down to the ‘comfortable’ 4-minute train change in Nagoya. Boutique Japan brought the team's deep knowledge of Japan to bear to develop a range of… Read More

Emily Choate, Atlanta

We worked with Boutique Japan for a 12-day whirlwind trip to Japan in November for my husband and myself. I am actually someone who loves to research and plan trips, but knew I didn't have the time to do it as thoroughly as this once-in-a-lifetime warranted. They helped us create an incredible trip that revolved… Read More

Bobby Wollman, Los Angeles

Our trip was so perfect from initially working with Roni and then Piper and the rest of the team. The travel arrangements were awesome and communicated so very clearly. The Axus app was terrific. Every time I thought about what to do somewhere (when there was time) the answer came (as if you knew that's… Read More

Day 3: Old-Fashioned Tokyo Backstreets, Ramen Lunch, and High-End Sushi Reservations

After breakfast at your hotel, your guide will meet you and you’ll head to the historic Asakusa district, best known as home to Tokyo’s oldest temple, Senso-ji. After paying a visit to the impressive temple, leave the crowds to explore the area’s vibrant backstreets, filled with old-school  kissaten  (coffee shops) and retro Tokyo charm.

Continue to Yanaka. Largely spared during World War II, Yanaka is a beautiful and well-preserved old neighborhood. Today it is home to quaint streets, small temples and shrines, traditional mom-and-pop shops selling Japanese sweets and rice crackers, and up-and-coming galleries and cafes run by young creatives.

Finally, walk into nearby Ueno, a bustling yet old-fashioned district best known for Ueno Park and its various museums. End your stroll at Ameyoko-cho, a boisterous open-air marketplace where you can find everything from fresh fruit and seafood, to clothing shops and yakitori stalls.

From here you’ll head with your guide to a spectacular little ramen shop for lunch. Afterwards, your guide will direct you back to your hotel for some downtime, or elsewhere in the city if you’d prefer to keep exploring. After an afternoon at leisure — with ideas on how to spend your time from our pre-departure materials and your guide — this evening prepare for a splendid sushi dinner.

A quintessential Tokyo experience, for tonight we’ll be making special reservations for you at a fantastic  sushi-ya  (sushi shop), where you can enjoy spectacular cuisine in unpretentious (and non-touristy) surroundings, dining at the intimate counter of an unsung sushi master. For this sublime experience, you will simply need to pay on the day (we will select a sushi shop that matches your preferred budget range for this evening).

Following dinner, make your way back to your hotel, or head out on your own to enjoy more of Tokyo’s legendary nightlife!

Day 4: Off-the-Beaten-Path Cycling Tour, and Final Evening in Tokyo

With your final full day in Tokyo, you’ll have the chance to explore yet another fascinating side of this rich and layered city.

In the late morning, you’ll meet your private cycling guide (urban cycling experience not required!). After being fitted for your bicycle and helmet, you’ll embark on a leisurely cycling tour, winding your way slowly through the quiet backstreets of delightful, off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods where tourists are rarely seen.

Prefer not to cycle? This cycling experience can be swapped out instead for a private walking tour taking in an irresistible mix of backstreets featuring marvelous  vintage or antiques shops.

End at a local favorite lunch spot specializing in  tonkatsu . Afterwards, you’ll have the remainder of your final day in Tokyo at leisure.

You may choose to visit any remaining neighborhoods, places, or museums of interest; sample any other culinary specialties on your personal must-eat list; or while away a few memorable hours checking out only-in-Tokyo shops and boutiques (don’t forget to leave some space in your luggage!).

Day 5: Tradition and Luxury in the Japanese Countryside

After a few thrilling days exploring the many charms of Tokyo, today you’ll get away from it all with a luxurious stay in rural Japan. But first, enjoy one last lovely breakfast at your hotel.

In the late morning, your private driver will meet you to take you to the station. At the massive station your private escort will lead the way, dropping you off right at your impeccably clean train, where you’ll take your comfortable seats for the journey.

(As you know if you’ve been to Japan, riding the  trains  is an experience in and of itself. The cleanliness, the speed and efficiency, the  etiquette  — and the pleasure of watching the landscape speed by.)

Before you know it, you’ve arrived. Right as you step off the train, you’ll be greeted by your driver and escorted to your private vehicle. Shortly thereafter you’ll arrive at your destination: a stunning traditional property with gorgeous Japanese aesthetics.

Step inside, where you’ll exchange your shoes for slippers and be led into your beautiful Japanese room. After making sure you’re comfortable and serving you tea, staff will leave you to settle into your serene surroundings.

Shed your street clothes and put on your traditional  yukata . Savor a healing soak in the aromatic wooden bath, kick back with a book, or head for a leisurely stroll around the property and surrounding area.

Following an afternoon of pure relaxation, prepare for a magnificent multi-course dinner, another essential ingredient of the countryside experience.

After dinner, enjoy a drink, or simply unwind and breathe in your rejuvenating surroundings before a restful evening.

YOUR LOVELY TRADITIONAL ACCOMMODATIONS

For your rural stay, choose one of these traditional yet forward-thinking Japanese-style properties within easy reach of Tokyo, where you can savor tranquil surroundings and quintessential Japanese hospitality:

• Asaba  (Japanese-Style Room with Hot Springs), located in the lush Izu Peninsula (~2 hours from Tokyo)
• Kishi-ke  (Luxury Private Villa), located in the coastal town of Kamakura (~1 hour from Tokyo). Please note that this property specializes in elegant plant-based cuisine.

Day 6: Relaxing Morning at Leisure, and Departure

Today marks the conclusion of your travels with us. You’ll be free until departure to luxuriate in your idyllic surroundings and enjoy a beautiful breakfast.

When it’s time to depart, you’ll be transferred back to the station for your journey by rail back to Tokyo. Back in Tokyo you’ll be met on arrival for your private transfer to your departure airport.

Please Note: If you plan to spend additional time exploring Japan independently, we will adjust today’s transport accordingly.

Becky & Jay, New York City

Boutique Japan planned our honeymoon in February 2016. Our overall experience with them was absolutely exceptional, I could not recommend them more. My husband and I love to travel but had never used a travel agent before (truth is we’ve always been skeptical). We found an article written by Boutique Japan on the best sushi… Read More

Paula Alsher, Marietta, Georgia

Boutique Japan did a fantastic job of planning an itinerary that completely matched our vision. Our group of 4 came away feeling that for 2 weeks, we had the opportunity to become immersed in the daily life of the Japanese. The guides, the hotels, and the experiences were all expertly planned. The app they provided… Read More

Eric K., Washington, DC

We had a terrific trip and are thankful to you and the team for a fantastic job. We loved your approach to everything, the attention to details, the responsiveness to our requests and the excellent trip that resulted from all of that. We’ll be very happy to refer friends to you, as we have several… Read More

Aron & Cynthia Rosenthal, Charleston

Boutique Japan = Perfect Trip. We could not have been happier with the itinerary and service provided by Andres and his staff at Boutique Japan. From the very first interaction, it was clear that their goal was to craft a personalized experience that we would never forget. Expectations were high as my lifelong dream trip… Read More

More Details and How to Book

Price per person is based on double occupancy. If you have a different party size, just let us know when inquiring.

This is a private trip, planned around your preferred travel dates. Because we work with small boutique properties, and top private guides, availability is limited.

Simply complete the form, letting us know your dates, and we will proceed to confirm availability. If your dates are flexible (or not yet set), just indicate approximate dates and we can take it from there.

After we’ve confirmed availability for your dates, a deposit of US $1,000 per person will be due to confirm your services.

Please note: This itinerary is for informational purposes only and not currently available. For our main offerings, please refer to our sample itineraries .

What’s Included

• Immersive, one-of-a-kind itinerary crafted with love by Boutique Japan, designed through our in-depth Japan expertise, relationships, and firsthand experience
• Accommodations as indicated
• Daily breakfast at accommodations
• Lunch on days 2, 3, and 4
• Dinner on days 2 and 5
• Private tour of Tsukiji and Ginza as indicated (including lunch)
• Private tour of Naka-Meguro, Daikanyama, and Ebisu as indicated (including dinner)
• Private tour of Asakusa, Yanaka, and Ueno as indicated (including lunch)
• Private cycling (or walking) tour as indicated (including lunch)
• Private transfer from arrival airport in Tokyo to hotel
• IC transport cards pre-filled with 3,500 JPY (about 35 USD) of initial credit
• Travels from Tokyo to countryside as indicated (round-trip)
• Private transfer to departure airport in Tokyo
• Expertly-planned logistics for peace of mind and convenience
• Pre-departure materials featuring free-time ideas ranging from recommended neighborhoods to explore to sights worth seeing, as well as fantastic places to eat and drink
• Extensive Japan-specific travel tips including advice on money, packing, etiquette, tipping, Wi-Fi, language, food, and more

Not Included

• Services or arrangements before or after the trip
• Flights (while we don’t book flights in-house, we can provide input on airlines, routes, etc.)
• Tours, experiences, meals, or any other services other than those specified
• Personal expenses such as, but not limited to, drinks (e.g., coffee, alcohol, etc.), snacks, laundry, luggage forwarding, visa fees, etc.
• Travel insurance
• Charges incurred as a result of changes beyond the control of Boutique Japan
• Any other services not specified

“Zuleta’s Boutique Japan is a small company that eschews volume and spends more time customizing each trip to offer travelers a fresh, creative approach to Japan – something that discerning travelers seek out after learning of Zuleta’s deep immersion into the Japanese language and culture from years of living in Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka.” —  Condé Nast Traveler

At Boutique Japan, we have unusually high standards when it comes to private guides. After all, few things in travel are more disappointing than a boring guide.

Even though there are plenty of guides throughout Japan, very few meet our standards, and we’ve personally developed a network of amazing guides and local experts around the country. It’s about far more than just having knowledge: we seek out truly engaging individuals who are not only bright and knowledgeable, but also fun and flexible.

As part of your trip, transport during tours and outings will be a combination of walking, public transit, and taxis. Tokyo is extremely well connected by its outstanding trains and subways, taxis are wonderfully clean and efficient, and the city is also surprisingly walkable despite its size.

To give you the best possible experience by giving your guides the freedom to tailor things to you in real time, transport costs during tours and outings are not pre-included. This provides an added degree of flexibility: for example, you may decide to walk if the weather is particularly nice, or take a taxi if you want to give your feet a rest.

We’ll be happy to help if you have any questions, please just  contact us .

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North Carolina welcomes a historic visitor in Japan’s Prime Minister Kishida

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida is cementing economic links and cultural amity with North Carolina after a visit to Washington focused on global security issues. His visit included a historic lunch at the governor’s mansion with Gov. Roy Cooper.

North Carolina first lady Kristin Cooper, North Carolina Gov. Roy Copper, Japan Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Japan first lady Yuko Kishida pose for a photograph before attending a luncheon at the North Carolina Executive Mansion, Friday, April 12, 2024, in Raleigh, N.C. (Robert Willett/The News & Observer via AP, Pool)

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Japan Prime Minister Fumio Kishida addresses a luncheon in his honor at the North Carolina Executive Mansion, Friday, April 12, 2024, in Raleigh, N.C. (Robert Willett/The News & Observer via AP, Pool)

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, left, and North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper, back left, tour the assembly building during a visit to the Honda Aircraft facility in Greensboro, N.C., Friday, April 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Chuck Burton)

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, second from right, walks through the assembly building during a visit to the Honda Aircraft facility in Greensboro, N.C., Friday, April 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Chuck Burton)

Roy Cooper, Governor of North Carolina and Kristin Cooper, arrive at the Booksellers area of the White House for the State Dinner hosted by President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden for Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, and wife Kishida Yuko, Wednesday, April 10, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)

Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida addresses a joint meeting of Congress in the House chamber, Thursday, April 11, 2024, at the Capitol in Washington. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana)

North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper addresses a luncheon in honor of Japan Prime Minister Fumio Kishida at the North Carolina Executive Mansion, Friday, April 12, 2024, in Raleigh, N.C. (Robert Willett/The News & Observer via AP, Pool)

Japan first lady Yuko Kishida, center, is flanked by Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, left and Shigeo Yamada, Japan Ambassador to the United States, during a luncheon in honor of the Prime Minister at the North Carolina Executive Mansion, Friday, April 12, 2024, in Raleigh, N.C. (Robert Willett/The News & Observer via AP, Pool)

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida cemented economic links and cultural amity with North Carolina on Friday, following up time in Washington during his official U.S. visit by checking up on benchmark Japanese companies building in the ninth-most populous state and meeting with students.

In between, Kishida lunched at the governor’s mansion in Raleigh, a historic first for the head of a foreign country in the Tar Heel state. Japan is North Carolina’s largest source of foreign direct investment, where over 200 Japanese companies have now set up shop, employing over 30,000 people, according to Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper and his office.

“I am honored to be here in North Carolina to showcase the multilayered and strong ties between Japan and the United States,” Kishida said through a translator, inside the mansion ballroom, where about 60 people listened. The guest list included Democratic state Attorney General Josh Stein, Republican state House Speaker Tim Moore and executives of several Japanese and American companies in the region.

He called North Carolina “a state at the forefront of the times” and flexed his knowledge about its landmarks, mentioning Kill Devil Hills, where the Wright Brothers had their first successful flight, as an example of the state’s ingenuity.

Until now, Kishida’s trip to the U.S. had been focused on global safety. He met President Joe Biden to discuss security concerns about China’s military, participated in the first trilateral summit between the U.S., Japan and the Philippines, and made the case in an address to a joint session of Congress for the U.S. to remain involved in global security.

But Kishida, who has been Japan’s prime minister since 2021, said before his trip that he chose to stop in North Carolina to show that the Japan-U.S. partnership extends beyond Washington, according to a translation posted on his website.

Kishida, Cooper and others traveled to the Greensboro area for Friday morning visits to a Honda Aircraft Co. production facility, as well as to the construction site for a Toyota Motor Corp. electric and hybrid battery plant that is expected to ultimately employ more than 5,000 people.

Hours before Kishida and his wife arrived Thursday night at Raleigh-Durham International Airport, a subsidiary of another Japanese company, Fujifilm, announced an additional $1.2 billion investment in its upcoming biopharmaceutical manufacturing plant and another 680 jobs.

Chiaki Takagi, a Japanese studies lecturer at the University of North Carolina Greensboro, said this week that the prime minister’s visit surprised her but that it could signal a “positive future partnership” between Japan and the U.S. and more Japanese workers coming to the state.

“This whole thing will provide the area with opportunities to be engaged in very active cultural exchange between Japan and the U.S.,” Takagi said.

The luncheon marked the first time a foreign head of state has visited the governor’s mansion since record-keeping began in 1891, the state Department of Natural and Cultural Resources said.

“What a better way to start than with one of our closest allies and friends from the country of Japan, with whom we share so many common interests,” Cooper said at the luncheon. “So today we make history, welcoming our wonderful friends.”

Cooper has a history of visiting Japan, making two trips to Tokyo in 2017 and 2023 during his time as governor. When it was announced Kishida was coming to the U.S., Rahm Emanuel, U.S. ambassador to Japan, said during the luncheon Cooper was the first to call to ask for the prime minister to visit his state.

Guests dined on a three-course meal prepared by James Beard award-winning Raleigh chef Ashley Christensen, which included wagyu beef tenderloin and Carolina Gold Rice pudding. Meanwhile, additional members of the Japanese delegation and the governor’s staff listened to live bluegrass music as they ate barbeque.

Kishida, Cooper and others went to North Carolina State University in Raleigh later Friday, where they met students ranging from those in middle school to adults studying Japanese. They visited the university’s Japan Center, which was established by former Gov. Jim Hunt and others in 1980 following a state trade mission to Tokyo. North Carolina State also has long, formal ties with Japan’s Nagoya University.

Earlier Friday, Kishida’s wife, Yuko, and North Carolina first lady Kristin Cooper shared a traditional Japanese tea at Sarah P. Duke Gardens in Durham.

Associated Press writer Gary D. Robertson in Raleigh contributed to this report.

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Biden and Kishida Agree to Tighten Military and Economic Ties to Counter China

President Biden is hosting Japan’s prime minister, Fumio Kishida, for a state visit as part of a broad diplomatic outreach.

By Peter Baker and Michael D. Shear

Reporting from the White House Rose Garden

President Biden and Prime Minister Fumio Kishida of Japan announced a range of moves on Wednesday to further enhance military, economic and other cooperation between the two longtime allies as part of the president’s efforts to counter China’s aggressive actions in the Indo-Pacific region.

During a pomp-filled ceremony honoring the visiting Japanese prime minister, the president said the United States and Japan would create an expanded defense architecture with Australia, participate in three-way military exercises with Britain and explore ways for Japan to join a U.S.-led coalition with Australia and Britain.

Mr. Biden also announced that the United States would take a Japanese astronaut to the moon as part of NASA’s Artemis program, which would be the first time a non-American has set foot on the moon.

“This is the most significant upgrade of our alliance since it was first established,” Mr. Biden said at a news conference in the White House Rose Garden along with the prime minister.

Mr. Kishida made a point of reaffirming Japan’s “strong support for Ukraine” in its war against Russia, a key priority for Mr. Biden, and framed the European conflict in terms of the precedent it could set in Japan’s neighborhood. “Ukraine today may be East Asia tomorrow,” Mr. Kishida said.

Biden Hosts Japan’s Prime Minister at the White House

President biden called the united states and japan “the closest of friends” during a welcoming ceremony for prime minister fumio kishida..

Just a few generations ago, our two nations were locked in a devastating conflict. It would have been easy to say we remain adversaries. Instead, we made a far better choice: We became the closest of friends. Mr. Prime Minister, Mr. Kishida, welcome back to the White House.

Mr. Biden’s statements on Wednesday fit into a long history of American presidents declaring that the U.S.-Japan relationship was the most important bilateral alliance in the world.

In preparation for the state visit, Mr. Biden’s aides described the closer military link as one of the biggest upgrades of the U.S.-Japan Security Treaty, which dates back to early 1960, an Eisenhower-era innovation to turn a former World War II enemy into what later presidents called America’s “biggest aircraft carrier in the Pacific.”

There has always been a bit of hyperbole to the statement. But as the perceived threat from China has grown, Japan has been the linchpin of broader U.S. efforts to unify its separate allies in the region — especially South Korea and the Philippines — into a coordinated force.

The prime minister’s visit comes at the same time Mr. Biden is strengthening the American partnership with the Philippines, which also finds itself the target of a mounting Chinese military presence in the South China Sea. On Thursday, Mr. Biden and Mr. Kishida will meet with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. of the Philippines to demonstrate their joint commitment.

The day began with a welcoming ceremony on the South Lawn, where Mr. Biden hailed the relationship between the United States and Japan as a “cornerstone of peace, security, prosperity” and said that President Eisenhower’s promise of an “indestructible partnership” had been achieved.

“Just a few generations ago, our two nations were locked in a devastating conflict,” Mr. Biden said after he and Mr. Kishida watched a procession of U.S. military honor guards upon the prime minister’s arrival at the White House. “It would have been easy to say we remain adversaries. Instead, we made a far better choice: We became the closest of friends.”

The Biden administration signaled the importance of its relationship with Tokyo by holding an official state dinner on Wednesday evening in honor of Mr. Kishida, something reserved for America’s closest allies.

The visit comes amid hand-wringing in Washington and Tokyo over the possibility of a return to power by former President Donald J. Trump, whose unpredictable foreign policy kept many world leaders on edge. One goal for Mr. Biden, officials said, is to create as much permanence in the Japanese relationship as possible before the election in November.

One administration official, speaking on the condition of anonymity to discuss the upcoming meeting, said there was “anxiety in capitals” around the world, including in Tokyo, about whether Mr. Trump would continue the international engagement that Mr. Biden and prior presidents have embraced. Another official said there was a real risk that Mr. Trump, if re-elected, could move to undo what the leaders of the two countries announced on Wednesday.

Mr. Biden and Mr. Kishida outlined greater coordination and integration between the military forces of both countries, including the formation of a joint defense council that could support more defense-related exports of equipment produced in Japan. And officials agreed on new cooperation on ventures in space and collaboration between research institutions working on artificial intelligence, semiconductors and clean energy.

“The American alliance system has helped bring peace and stability to the Indo-Pacific for decades, and now we need to update and upgrade that alliance network for the modern age,” said Jake Sullivan, the White House national security adviser. “It goes way beyond security. It’s economics. It’s technology. It’s infrastructure development. And it’s diplomacy. And that’s all going to be on display in the meeting with the prime minister.”

Rahm Emanuel, the United States ambassador to Japan, called the meeting a chance for the two nations to go beyond America’s work to protect Japan and to “write the first chapter of the next era” of cooperation as they work together to project power throughout the region.

That would be a more far-reaching relationship than the United States has historically had with Japan, which for decades after World War II restricted its spending on defense and its engagement around the world.

That began to change during the past several years, under Mr. Kishida, who pushed to expand defense spending and participate in global efforts like the sanctions on Russia for its invasion of Ukraine. Administration officials said Japan’s new willingness to become a full partner with the United States on the global stage has taken the alliance between the two countries to a new level.

But there are still some tensions. The two leaders had to dance carefully around Mr. Biden’s reluctance to let a Japanese firm buy a storied U.S. steel maker. That struck national security experts as strange, since such deals are usually blocked only when they give critical technology to adversaries, not allies.

“The idea that you block the acquisition of a company by one of your closest allies makes no sense in alliance-building terms,” said Joseph S. Nye Jr., an emeritus professor at Harvard who designed many of the defense cooperation strategies with Japan in the Clinton administration.

The meeting on Thursday between Mr. Biden, Mr. Kishida and Mr. Marcos represents a more aggressive effort by the United States and its allies to isolate China — rather than allowing the Chinese leadership to intimidate and isolate its neighbors in the South China Sea and elsewhere.

The Thursday meeting will be the first time that the leaders of the three nations have met together, officials said.

“We’re continuing to deepen our cooperation with our closest partners to ensure what we’ve talked about many times from this podium and elsewhere: a free, open and prosperous Indo Pacific,” Mr. Sullivan told reporters during a briefing at the White House on Tuesday.

Mr. Sullivan declined to say whether Mr. Biden would raise with Mr. Kishida the issue of plans by Nippon Steel, a Japanese corporation, to acquire U.S. Steel , the struggling manufacturer based in Pittsburgh. Mr. Biden has publicly said that he will have “the backs” of union steel workers, indicating his opposition to the deal.

“You guys all know Joe Biden,” he said. “You’ve seen Joe Biden. He’s been very clear that he’s going to stand up for American workers. He’s going to defend your interests. He’s also been very clear that he is going to make sure that the U.S.-Japan alliance is the strongest it’s ever been.”

But administration officials said later on Tuesday that they did not think the subject would come up between the two leaders on Wednesday because both men already know the position of the other.

Mr. Biden greeted Mr. Kishida on Tuesday evening for a brief arrival at the White House. Later, the two leaders and their wives went to BlackSalt, an upscale seafood restaurant in Washington, for a more casual dinner ahead of the formal events on Wednesday.

White House officials said the couples had exchanged a series of gifts on Tuesday evening, a diplomatic tradition for such events. The official gift from Mr. Biden and Jill Biden, the first lady, was a three-legged table that was handmade by a Japanese American-owned company in Pennsylvania.

Other gifts included a lithograph and a two-volume LP set autographed by Billy Joel and a vintage vinyl record collection. Dr. Biden gave Ms. Kishida a framed painting of the Yoshino cherry tree that the two had planted on the South Lawn last spring, and a soccer ball signed by the U.S. women’s national soccer team and the Japanese women’s team.

At the state dinner, the White House was scheduled to serve a meal that would include house-cured salmon and dry-aged rib-eye steak with blistered shishito pepper butter.

David E. Sanger contributed reporting.

An earlier version of this article misstated which countries belong to a security pact that Japan may join. Its members are the United States, Australia and Britain, not the United States, Australia and New Zealand.

Because of an editing error, an earlier version of a home page headline with this article misstated the surname of Japan’s prime minister. He is Fumio Kishida, not Fushida.

How we handle corrections

Peter Baker is the chief White House correspondent for The Times. He has covered the last five presidents and sometimes writes analytical pieces that place presidents and their administrations in a larger context and historical framework. More about Peter Baker

Michael D. Shear is a White House correspondent for The New York Times, covering President Biden and his administration. He has reported on politics for more than 30 years. More about Michael D. Shear