Discovering Japan’s Hidden Gems – Must See Attractions

Japan is an incredibly diverse and fascinating country, filled with vibrant culture, beautiful scenery and incredible architecture. But beyond the well-known cities of Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka, there are a wealth of hidden gems just waiting to be explored.

From majestic mountains and crystal-clear lakes, to historic temples and shrines, there’s something for everyone in Japan. In this blog, we’ll take a look at some of the country’s most beautiful hidden gems – must-see attractions that you won’t want to miss on your next trip.

Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trail

Kumano Kodo is a network of ancient pilgrimage trails that have been used by Japanese people for centuries. The trails wind their way through some of the most beautiful areas of the country, from lush forests and tranquil rivers, to majestic mountains and secluded shrines. The trail is divided into a number of sections, giving you the opportunity to explore different parts of the country at your own pace.

The ancient pilgrimage trails offer a unique insight into the culture and history of Japan, and provide a wonderful opportunity to get away from it all and take in some of the country’s most spectacular scenery. Whether you choose to hike the entire Kumano Kodo, or just explore a few sections, you’ll be sure to have an unforgettable experience.

The Kumano Kodo is a popular destination for hikers and nature-lovers alike, and is sure to be a highlight of your trip to Japan.

Miyajima Island

Miyajima Island is one of the most picturesque places in Japan, located just off the coast of Hiroshima. The island is home to a number of breathtaking sights, including the iconic Itsukushima shrine, its stunning red Torii gate, and the beautiful Mount Misen, which offers spectacular views of the surrounding area.

The island is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, monkeys and birds, which can often be seen strolling along the shore or up in the trees. A visit to Miyajima Island is sure to be a highlight of your trip, and is the perfect place to take in the beauty of Japan’s landscape.

Whether you choose to explore the island on foot, take a boat ride around the coast, or simply relax and take in the views, a visit to Miyajima Island is a must-do while in Japan.

Kamikochi National Park

Kamikochi National Park is a stunning area of natural beauty located in the Japanese Alps. The park is home to a number of beautiful landscapes, including rivers, mountains, forests and waterfalls. The area is particularly popular with hikers, who come to explore the park’s many trails, take in the stunning views and marvel at the area’s abundant wildlife.

Kamikochi National Park is also home to a number of historic shrines and temples, which offer a glimpse into the area’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you choose to explore the park on foot, or simply relax and take in the views, a visit to Kamikochi National Park is sure to be a highlight of your trip to Japan.

Kamikochi National Park is a must-see for anyone looking to explore the stunning nature of Japan.

Kagoshima City

Kagoshima City is located on the southernmost tip of Kyushu Island and is home to some of the country’s most beautiful scenery. The city is bordered by the Sakurajima volcano, which provides an incredible backdrop to the city’s vibrant streets. Kagoshima City is also home to a number of historic sites, including the 17th century Shoko Shuseikan museum which offers a fascinating insight into the city’s past.

Kagoshima City is also home to a number of hot springs, as well as a number of beautiful beaches and tranquil parks. Whether you choose to explore the city’s many attractions, take a boat ride around the bay, or simply relax and take in the views, a visit to Kagoshima City is sure to be a highlight of your trip to Japan.

Kagoshima City is a must-see for anyone looking to explore Japan’s southernmost tip.

Kurashiki

Kurashiki is a charming city located in the Okayama Prefecture. The city is home to a number of historic buildings and traditional Japanese gardens, as well as a number of quaint canals which give the city its unique character. Kurashiki is also home to a number of museums and art galleries, offering a fascinating insight into the city’s past.

Kurashiki is a great place to explore on foot, with a number of traditional streets and buildings to explore. The city is also home to a number of traditional restaurants and cafes, offering a unique insight into the city’s culture and cuisine.

Kurashiki is a must-see for anyone looking to explore Japan’s traditional culture and architecture.

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is a tranquil park located in the city of Hiroshima. The park is home to a number of memorials, including the iconic Atomic Bomb Dome, which serves as a reminder of the city’s tragic past. The park is also home to a number of gardens and sculptures, as well as a museum which offers a fascinating insight into the city’s history.

The park is a great place to take a peaceful stroll, and is the perfect place to take in the city’s stunning scenery. A visit to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is sure to be a highlight of your trip to Japan, and is a must-see for anyone looking to explore the city’s history and culture.

Yakushima Island

Yakushima Island is a small island located off the coast of Kyushu. The island is home to a number of stunning natural landscapes, including ancient forests, crystal-clear rivers and Waterfall Machi, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Japan. Yakushima Island is also home to a number of unique wildlife, including the iconic Japanese macaque, which can often be seen strolling through the forest.

Yakushima Island is a great place to explore on foot, and is the perfect place to get away from it all and take in some of Japan’s most beautiful scenery. Whether you choose to explore the island’s many trails, take a boat ride around the island, or simply relax and take in the views, a visit to Yakushima Island is sure to be a highlight of your trip to Japan.

Ogasawara Islands

Ogasawara Islands, also known as the Bonin Islands, are a group of islands located in the Pacific Ocean, around 1000km south of Tokyo. The islands are home to a number of stunning landscapes, including tropical beaches, lush forests and crystal-clear waters. The islands are also home to a number of unique wildlife, including the rare Bonin flying fox, which can often be seen gliding through the sky.

The Ogasawara Islands are a great place to explore on foot, and are the perfect place to get away from it all and take in some of Japan’s most stunning scenery. Whether you choose to explore the islands’ many trails, take a boat ride around the coast, or simply relax and take in the views, a visit to the Ogasawara Islands is sure to be a highlight of your trip to Japan.

Koyasan

Koyasan is a sacred mountain located in the Wakayama Prefecture. The mountain is home to a number of ancient temples and shrines, as well as a number of beautiful gardens and tranquil walking trails. Koyasan is also home to a number of traditional restaurants and cafes, offering a unique insight into the area’s culture and cuisine.

Koyasan is a great place to explore on foot, and is the perfect place to take in some of Japan’s most beautiful scenery. Whether you choose to explore the mountain’s many trails, take a boat ride around the lake, or simply relax and take in the views, a visit to Koyasan is sure to be a highlight of your trip to Japan.

Hakone

Hakone is a picturesque town located in the mountains of Kanagawa Prefecture. The town is home to a number of stunning landscapes, including hot springs, lakes and Mount Fuji, which can often be seen in the distance. Hakone is also home to a number of traditional restaurants and cafes, offering a unique insight into the area’s culture and cuisine.

Hakone is a great place to explore on foot, and is the perfect place to take in some of Japan’s most beautiful scenery. Whether you choose to explore the town’s many trails, take a boat ride around the lake, or simply relax and take in the views, a visit to Hakone is sure to be a highlight of your trip to Japan.

Shirakawa-go

Shirakawa-go is a small village located in the Gifu Prefecture. The village is home to a number of traditional houses, known as gassho-zukuri, which are constructed using a unique method of weaving together wooden beams. The village is also home to a number of traditional restaurants and cafes, offering a unique insight into the area’s culture and cuisine.

Shirakawa-go is a great place to explore on foot, and is the perfect place to take in some of Japan’s most beautiful scenery. Whether you choose to explore the village’s many attractions, take a boat ride around the lake, or simply relax and take in the views, a visit to Shirakawa-go is sure to be a highlight of your trip to Japan.

Hokkaido

Hokkaido is Japan’s northernmost island and is home to some of the country’s most stunning scenery. The island is home to a number of national parks, including the beautiful Daisetsuzan National Park, as well as a number of hot springs, ski resorts and stunning beaches. Hokkaido is also home to a number of unique wildlife, including the iconic Ezo Red Fox, which can often be seen strolling through the forests.

Hokkaido is a great place to explore on foot, and is the perfect place to get away from it all and take in some of Japan’s most beautiful landscapes. Whether you choose to explore the island’s many trails, take a boat ride around the coast, or simply relax and take in the views, a visit to Hokkaido is sure to be a highlight of your trip to Japan.

Conclusion

Japan is an incredibly diverse and fascinating country, filled with vibrant culture, beautiful scenery and incredible architecture. From majestic mountains and crystal-clear lakes, to historic temples and shrines, there’s something for everyone in Japan.

In this blog, we’ve taken a look at some of the country’s most beautiful hidden gems – must-see attractions that you won’t want to miss on your next trip. From the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trail, to Miyajima Island, Kamikochi National Park, Kagoshima City and more, there’s a wealth of incredible sights to explore in Japan.

So what are you waiting for? Grab your passport and start planning your next trip to Japan – you won’t regret it!