Japan travel content is saturated with the same “hidden gems” and “must-visit spots”. Boring. Here’s a list of places around the country that we genuinely love — and are pretty sure you will, too. Immerse yourself in this.
Zoom Through Osaka in a Go-kart (Costume Included)
Feel like you are in a video game with this fun go-karting experience. Ideal for small groups, the tour allows you to explore Osaka in a unique and exciting way.
For ultimate thrills and views of Mount Fuji, Fuji Q Highland is the place to go. With stomach-turning roller coasters, including Fujiyama — one of the highest in the world — this theme park isn’t for the faint of heart. That said, there are areas little ones will enjoy too, including Thomas Land. A guaranteed fun day out, with easy access from Shinjuku.
Aila says: “My favorite place in Japan is Kawaguchiko. I would say that Kawaguchiko gets hyped up a lot, but honestly? It deserves every bit of it. On a clear day, the views are unreal. And Fuji Q Highland might just be my favorite amusement park ever. People always talk about the Guinness World Records that Fuji Q has, and hype it up so much, but once you ride these rides, you’ll understand how it got them.”
Located in the famous hot-spring town of Kusatsu Onsen, Sainokawara Park is known for its natural hot-spring streams that run through forested landscape. Visitors can relax by dipping their hands or feet into the warm waters. At the far end lies a highlight of the area — Sainokawara Rotenburo, the largest open-air onsen in Japan.
Aarohi says: “Before I had ever stepped into a hot spring, I imagined that all onsen look like Sainokawara: sprawling, thermal waters bubbling up rhizomatically, surrounded by dense foliage and mountains. In truth, however, Kusatsu’s Sainokawara is a once-in-a-lifetime outdoor bathing experience. It’s refreshingly unmanicured, and although it may sound grandiose, I felt a genuine sense of awe at the earth’s raw power. The admission fee of ¥800 is a steal.
Recommended by Hiromi Kinukawa, business development manager Shiga Free
Photo by Getty Images
Steeped in traditional culture — no, we’re not talking about Kyoto — Omihachiman is a historic merchant town near Lake Biwa. It’s best known for the Omihachiman-bori Canal, where visitors can enjoy scenic boat rides with views of seasonal flowers.
Suggested Activity
Highly Recommended Osaka Food Tour
Book this best-selling tour and see why Osaka is known as Japan's kitchen. Taste famous dishes like okonomiyaki, kushikatsu and more, with a friendly local guide.
The town exudes the charm of the Edo period, with its well-preserved streets, museums, and shrines. A stroll through Omihachiman truly feels like stepping back in time.
Hiromi says: “Not far from Kyoto, this is a good walking-size town where there is a canal from the Edo period. There is also a ropeway that takes you up the hill which overlooks the town. Omihachiman is famous for their wagyu-beef brand (Omi-gyu) as well. A little further, you get to see the town of Higashi-Omi, where the commerce of Japan originated.”
Recommended by Jane Pipkin, writer and social-media manager Nagasaki Free (ropeway costs ¥620 to ¥1,250)
Photo by Jane Pipkin
You know a place is worthy of going to if it is quoted as having a “10-million dollar view”. At a height of 333 meters, perched on Mt. Inasa, this overlook offers 360-degree views of Nagasaki, the Goto Islands, and Unzen. To get there, visitors can take a ride on the clear-glass Nagasaki Ropeway, which gives another perspective of the city.
Jane says: “From taking the ropeway to the view up top, the whole experience was memorable. Since I love Tokyo’s skyline, I wasn’t sure how Nagasaki’s would compare. But it was just as beautiful in its own way. When I visited on an early November evening, I got to see beautiful purple skies and watch the city transition from day to night.”
Suggested Activity
Go Bar Hopping in Osaka [With Full Dinner]
Spend an evening exploring the bars in Osaka's popular nightlife district of Namba. Sample tasty Japanese pub-style food, and wash it down with your choice of drinks, from sake to umeshu and beer — all in the company of a knowledgeable guide!
Recommended by Carey Finn, editor-in-chief Wakayama Free (transport varies)
Photo by Lucy Dayman
Wakayama is a part of Kansai which isn’t as popular with first-time tourists. However, the prefecture is home to various wonders including Nachi Falls and Mount Koya. The latter is famous for being the center of Shingon Buddhism.
Replete with sacred landmarks, Mount Koya is so significant that it is the starting point for the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage. The mountain also offers spectacular views and a relatively easy hike.
Carey says: “A tangibly sacred site, with awe-inspiring trees — plus the best goma dofu (sesame tofu) I have ever had in Japan. Tread on holy paths in this mountain getaway.”
The inspiration behind the forest in Princess Mononoke, Shiratani Unsuikyo is a mystical hiking trail on the small island of Yakushima. With a variety of easy routes to choose from, you can spend the day exploring natural wonders like the old, old cedar trees.
After walking through the forest, you can unwind at the oceanside hot spring, or learn about the trees at the Yakusugi Museum. Explore our itinerary for additional ideas.
Alex says: “Nature spots in Japan are aplenty, but none had given me a sense of magic till I visited Yakushima Island and hiked through Shiratani Unsuikyo, otherwise known as the place that inspired Princess Mononoke’s forest. Along with the whispering ancient cedar trees, the moss is a brilliant, blinding green that leaves an everlasting afterimage.”
Naeba Ski Resort is more than just a ski destination — it serves as the base for one of Japan’s most anticipated annual music events, Fuji Rock Festival.
The resort is also connected to the neighboring Kagura Ski Resort by the Dragondola, Japan’s longest gondola lift. Stunning year-round, Naeba is the perfect place for those who love skiing, live music, and the natural beauty of Japan.
Patrick says: “The potent combination of music, nature, and delicious food is hard to beat, and the tidy, chill, and wholesome culture of the festival tops it all off.”
Recommended by Jane Pipkin, writer and social-media manager Hiroshima ¥300 for adults, ¥200 for high-school students, and ¥100 for elementary-school students
The famous torii gate on Miyajima. | Photo by Alex Ziminski
Miyajima is a small island in Hiroshima — one which is considered sacred. Its centerpiece is Itsukushima Shrine, which “floats” on the water. Its most famous feature is the massive torii gate that stands proudly in the middle of the sea. Even today, traditional rituals including the Miyajima Kangen-sai Festival, take place at the shrine — making it a cultural stronghold.
Jane says: “Although I visited Hiroshima 10 years ago, the image of the floating torii against the bright-blue water remains vividly etched in my mind. Not only was the shrine mesmerizing, but there were also some deer that came to greet us. It was a picture-perfect scene. I think I need to go back.”
Recommended by Miki Murata, sales assistant Okinawa Free
Kabira Bay, Ishigaki, Okinawa. | Photo by Lily Crossley-Baxter
Loved for its crystal-clear beaches and laid-back tropical vibe, Okinawa offers an experience unlike anywhere else in Japan. From the main island through to its scattered small ones, each is rich in local culture. Among them, Ishigaki stands out — it’s home to breathtaking sights such as Kabira Bay.
At Kabira Bay, you can experience a ride on a glass-bottom boat and see sealife right in front of your eyes. The area truly looks like a painting bought to life.
Miki says: “My favorite places are Okinawa and the surrounding islands such as Ishigaki Island. Japan is sometimes described as uniform, but each region has its own culture and history. Okinawa is one place where this is particularly evident. I love it because you can enjoy time at a leisurely pace — and the food is delicious.”
Recommended by Carey Finn, editor-in-chief Tochigi ¥420 to ¥1,380
Photo by Carey Finn
We’re keeping on brand. Just like with our favorite places in Tokyo, another Yakult-themed location has made it onto the favorites list. In Utsunomiya, you’ll find the world’s first-ever Yakult café. Here, you can indulge in Yakult-inspired desserts and light lunches which we are probably just as good for your gut health as Yakult is said to be.
Carey says: “Delicious Yakult treats, with a castle view — what more do you need? A calming cafe with healthy mains and snacks aplenty.”
Pro tip: Grab some of the gyoza Utsunomiya is famous for, while you are in the station area.
Recommended by Aarohi Narain, writer Shizuoka From ¥500
The outdoor terrace is a lovely place to have a beer on a balmy day. | Photo by Aarohi Narain
Baird Beer is a well-regarded craft brewery with locations throughout Japan. Its flagship brewery is nestled in the tranquil town of Shuzenji. On a clear and warm day, there’s no better place to sip on a pint then on the outdoor terrace. On tap, you’ll find a variety of brews including the Rising Sun Pale Ale and Shuzenji Heritage Helles.
Aarohi says: “I enjoy visiting breweries wherever I travel, and I was excited to learn that Baird’s flagship brewery is tucked away in Shuzenji, a little outside the main hot-spring town area. I got the opportunity to chat with the (bilingual) staff, get their recommendations, and hear some of the stories behind the brews. You can bring your own snacks, too. Look out for seasonal/experimental brews!”
Recommended by Patrick Balfe, writer and editor Kyoto Drinks from ¥800
A view of Minamiza Theater from the rooftop bar. | Photo by Patrick Balfe
Everyone loves a rooftop bar — and this one is no exception. Perched near the Kamo River, In the Moon offers unrivaled views of Kyoto’s traditional skyline, along with affordable cocktails. To elevate the already unmatched vibes, you can expect chill music and a lively (but relaxed) atmosphere.
Patrick says: “Less crowded than Arashiyama and arguably better views than Kiyomizu-dera, In the Moon is one of the best reasons to visit Kyoto. Reasonably priced cocktails, unobtrusive music, and rooftop views of the city — stop in and grab a sunset drink before heading out for the night.”
Recommended by Miki Murata, sales assistant Fukuoka Free (prices vary per stall)
Photo by Jane Pipkin
For the best of street food, head to Fukuoka. There, you’ll find yatai (traditional food stalls), where you can huddle around small vendors and sample various foods such as yakitori and ramen.
The most famous in the city is Nakasu Yatai Yokocho, which comes to life after 6 p.m. every night. As soon as the clock strikes, queues begin to form at each yatai — a testament to their popularity and deliciousness.
Miki says: “I like yatai for the atmosphere — it’s not just relaxing, but also exciting to strike up conversations with the people sitting next you. My favorite dishes are yakitori, oden, and anything made with fresh local ingredients. I also recommend ordering some shochu to go with your meal!”
Recommended by Jane Pipkin, writer and social-media manager Kyoto From ¥109
Photo by Jane Pipkin
In one of the quieter streets of Kyoto’s Nakagyo Ward lies a “hidden gem” that’s full of character. This small, lively izakaya serves all the classics, along with kushikatsu (fried skewers). From vegetables to meats, there’s a wide variety of kushikatsu to choose from — with prices starting as low as ¥109.
Jane says: “There are so many great places to get kushikatsu in Kansai — what makes this one special? In addition to the fun presentation, each piece of kushikatsu was incredibly tasty when I went. I also loved the selection of frozen sours, each complete with a rubber duck and served in an original illustrated glass.”
Recommended by Alex Ziminiski, events editor and social-media manager Kawaguchiko From ¥1,320
Photo by Alex Ziminski
If you’re visiting Kawaguchiko, trying hōtō is a must. This traditional noodle dish from Yamanashi Prefecture features flat noodles served in a hearty miso-based broth with seasonal vegetables.
Hōtō Fudō Kawaguchiko Station stands out for being one of the best places to try this famous noodle. With its traditional tatami and dark-wood interior, the restaurant exudes a warm, cozy atmosphere. The long queue outside is clear proof of how satisfying the food truly is.
Alex says: “On cold winter days, I often think back to the smouldering bowl of hōtō noodles I gobbled down at a restaurant where no one told the builder, ‘I think we can stop with the wood.'”
Written by Jane Pipkin
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