I Live In Japan. It Has A Lot More To Offer Than What Travel Guides Say. Try These 10 Places On Your Next Visit

While many travelers flock to Japanese tourist spots like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, numerous hidden gems remain largely untouched by the crowds. As a resident in Japan, here’s my recommendation of the places you should visit in this amazing country.

Ine no Funaya (Boat Houses of Ine)

Nestled along the coast of Kyoto Prefecture, Ine no Funaya offers a picturesque view of boat houses lining the waterfront. This quaint fishing village is not only a scenic spot but also provides a unique opportunity to see a living arrangement where houses and boathouses coexist seamlessly. It’s a fascinating place to explore a different pace of life.

Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter

In Okayama Prefecture lies the charming Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter. With its beautifully preserved Edo Period (1603-1868) buildings and scenic canal lined with weeping willows, it feels like stepping back in time. The area's museums and shops offer a deep dive into traditional Japanese culture and crafts.

The Sand Dunes of Tottori

Often overlooked for more famous landscapes, the Tottori Sand Dunes offer a desert-like experience that contrasts sharply with Japan's typical lush scenery. The dunes are included in the San’in Kaigan Geopark, part of The UNESCO Global Geoparks. Activities like sandboarding, camel rides, and paragliding provide a unique adventure in this surreal, natural setting.

Shirakawa-go's Gassho-zukuri Villages

While somewhat known, Shirakawa-go in Gifu Prefecture still retains a sense of undiscovered charm. The village is renowned for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, some of which are over 250 years old. Their steep thatched roofs, designed to withstand heavy snowfall, create an enchanting fairy-tale landscape.

Kiso Valley

For those who enjoy serene hikes and historical trails, the Kiso Valley offers the Nakasendo trail, an old samurai path that links Kyoto and Tokyo. Hiking this trail not only provides physical exercise but also a journey through quaint post towns like Magome and Tsumago, virtually unchanged since the Edo Period.

Mount Koya

Mount Koya is the spiritual center of Shingon Buddhism, located in Wakayama Prefecture. A stay in one of its many temples, participating in the morning prayers and eating monk-prepared vegetarian meals, offers a profound spiritual experience unlike any other in Japan.

Yakushima Island

This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous among nature lovers but still under the radar for the average traveler. Yakushima Island is home to ancient cedar forests housing trees that are thousands of years old, including the revered Jomon Sugi. The mystical atmosphere here is extraordinary.

The Ogasawara Islands

Located 1000 kilometers south of Tokyo, the Ogasawara Islands are often referred to as the ‘Galapagos of the Orient.’ The islands’ remote location makes them a sanctuary for rare wildlife and offers pristine beaches, clear waters, and excellent opportunities for diving and snorkeling.

Zao Fox Village

For animal lovers, Zao Fox Village in Miyagi Prefecture is a must-visit. This unique sanctuary houses over a hundred free-roaming foxes. Visitors can observe and even feed these beautiful creatures in a setting that mimics their natural habitat.

Beppu's Hells

Beppu, located on the island of Kyushu, is famed for its hot springs. However, the lesser-known ‘Hells’ of Beppu are a collection of spectacular hot springs for viewing rather than bathing. These springs are noted for their extreme heat and unusual colors, and they offer a hauntingly beautiful sight.

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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.