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What To Do In Japan: Breathtaking Destinations Beyond Tokyo You Need to Visit

  • Writer: Mary
    Mary
  • Mar 23
  • 4 min read

Japan is a country of contrasts - ancient temples nestled alongside futuristic skyscrapers, tranquil gardens a stone's throw from bustling markets. While Tokyo dazzles with its neon lights and vibrant energy, there's so much more to explore beyond the capital. If you're yearning for authentic experiences away from the tourist crowds, it's time to discover Japan's hidden gems that offer a glimpse into the country's soul.


Japan's Hidden Gems That Will Transform Your Travel Experience


When planning a trip to Japan, most travelers immediately think of Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. But venture beyond these popular destinations, and you'll discover a whole new side of Japan - one filled with rich traditions, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable experiences that few foreigners ever see.


Takayama: Step Back in Time


Nestled in the Japanese Alps, Takayama feels like a living museum of Edo-period Japan. Its beautifully preserved old town, with wooden merchant houses and sake breweries, transports you centuries back in time.


Must-Visit Places:

  • Sanmachi Suji Historic District - Wander through narrow streets lined with traditional wooden buildings housing shops, restaurants, and sake breweries

  • Takayama Jinya - The former government headquarters during the Edo period, now a fascinating museum

  • Hida Folk Village - An open-air museum showcasing traditional rural architecture from the region


Tips for Travel:

  • Visit during the Takayama Festival (held in spring and fall) to witness one of Japan's most beautiful traditional festivals with elaborate floats and puppet performances

  • Stay in a traditional ryokan for the full cultural experience

  • Sample Hida beef, often considered just as delicious as the more famous Kobe beef, but at more reasonable prices


Kanazawa: Cultural Riches Without the Crowds


Often called "Little Kyoto," Kanazawa offers similar cultural riches but with far fewer tourists. The city escaped bombing during WWII, preserving much of its historical architecture and gardens.


Must-Visit Places:

  • Kenrokuen Garden - One of Japan's three most beautiful landscape gardens, stunning in every season

  • Higashi Chaya District - A preserved geisha district with teahouses and traditional shops

  • 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art - For an interesting contrast of old and new Japan


Tips for Travel:

  • The Kanazawa Loop Bus makes it easy to navigate between major attractions

  • Pick up a gold leaf souvenir - Kanazawa produces 99% of Japan's gold leaf

  • Visit the Omicho Market for fresh seafood and local specialties


Naoshima: The Art Island


This small island in the Seto Inland Sea has been transformed into a unique art destination, with museums, outdoor sculptures, and art installations.


Must-Visit Places:

  • Chichu Art Museum - A mostly underground museum designed by Tadao Ando, housing works by Claude Monet, James Turrell, and Walter De Maria

  • Benesse House - A combination of museum and hotel where guests can live among the artworks

  • Art House Project - A collection of abandoned houses converted into art installations


Tips for Travel:

  • Rent a bicycle to explore the island efficiently

  • Plan to stay overnight to fully appreciate the island without rushing

  • Combine with visits to nearby art islands Teshima and Inujima


Yakushima: Mystical Forests and Ancient Cedars


This UNESCO World Heritage site inspired the forests in Studio Ghibli's "Princess Mononoke" with its moss-

covered, ancient cedar trees and misty mountains.


Must-Visit Places:

  • Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine - The moss-covered forest that inspired "Princess Mononoke"

  • Jomon Sugi - One of the oldest trees in Japan, estimated to be between 2,000-7,200 years old

  • Ohko-no-taki Waterfall - A magnificent 88-meter-tall waterfall


Tips for Travel:

  • Be prepared for rain - Yakushima receives significant rainfall year-round

  • Wear good hiking shoes and bring rain gear

  • Consider hiring a local guide for the more challenging hikes


Travel Logistics: Getting There and Staying Comfortably


Flight Costs from North America


From Canada:

  • Vancouver to Tokyo: $800-1,200 CAD (round trip)

  • Toronto to Tokyo: $950-1,400 CAD (round trip)

  • Connecting flights to regional airports near these destinations will add approximately $150-300 CAD


From USA:

  • Los Angeles to Tokyo: $750-1,100 USD (round trip)

  • New York to Tokyo: $850-1,300 USD (round trip)

  • Connecting flights to regional airports near these destinations will add approximately $120-250 USD


Prices vary by season, with peak costs during cherry blossom season (late March to early April) and fall foliage (November).


Accommodation Costs


Takayama:

  • Budget hostels/guesthouses: $30-50 USD per night

  • Mid-range hotels: $80-150 USD per night

  • Traditional ryokans: $150-300 USD per night (often includes traditional multi-course dinner and breakfast)


Kanazawa:

  • Budget hostels/guesthouses: $25-45 USD per night

  • Mid-range hotels: $70-140 USD per night

  • Luxury accommodations: $200+ USD per night


Naoshima:

  • Guesthouses: $40-70 USD per night

  • Benesse House (art museum/hotel): $300-400 USD per night


Yakushima:

  • Guesthouses/minshuku: $50-80 USD per night

  • Mid-range hotels: $100-180 USD per night

  • Mountain huts (for hikers): $30-40 USD per night


Food Costs

  • Budget meals (ramen shops, casual restaurants): $5-15 USD

  • Mid-range restaurant meals: $15-30 USD

  • High-end dining experiences: $50+ USD

  • Traditional kaiseki multi-course meal: $80-150 USD


Seasonal Considerations for Your Visit


Each of these destinations offers unique experiences depending on when you visit:

  • Spring (March-May): Cherry blossoms transform the landscapes, particularly beautiful in Takayama and Kanazawa

  • Summer (June-August): Lush greenery in Yakushima, but prepare for humidity and occasional rain

  • Fall (September-November): Spectacular autumn colors throughout the Japanese Alps and Kanazawa's gardens

  • Winter (December-February): Snow-covered landscapes in Takayama and Kanazawa, with fewer tourists


Cherry blossoms in foreground with soft pink and white petals. Traditional building with Japanese script in background, serene mood.
Cherry blossoms in full bloom beautifully adorn a traditional building in Takayama, creating a serene and picturesque scene.

Local Transportation Tips


The Japan Rail Pass can be an excellent investment if you're planning to visit multiple destinations. However, for some of these hidden gems, you'll need additional transportation:

  • Takayama is accessible by limited express train from Nagoya

  • Kanazawa is on the Hokuriku Shinkansen line from Tokyo

  • Naoshima requires a ferry from Uno Port (accessible from Okayama)

  • Yakushima is reached by ferry or flight from Kagoshima


Cultural Etiquette to Enhance Your Experience


When visiting these less-touristed areas of Japan, showing respect for local customs goes a long way:

  • Remove shoes when entering traditional accommodations, homes, and some restaurants

  • Bow when greeting people

  • Don't eat while walking in public

  • Be mindful of noise levels, especially in rural areas and on public transportation

  • Learn a few basic Japanese phrases - locals appreciate the effort even if your pronunciation isn't perfect


By venturing beyond Tokyo to these hidden gems, you'll discover a Japan that few travelers ever experience - one of tranquil beauty, rich traditions, and unforgettable landscapes. These destinations offer a perfect balance of cultural immersion and natural splendor, all without the crowds that can sometimes overwhelm Japan's major cities.

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