Hidden Treasures of Japan: Little-Known Destinations to Explore

Trésors cachés du Japon : Destinations méconnues à explorer

When we talk about the Japan, many images come to mind: the frenzy of Tokyo, the thousand-year-old temples of Kyoto, Mount Fuji, and many others. However, the Japanese archipelago is not limited to these destinations alone. It also offers a multitude of less traveled trails, little-known islands and towns that remain outside the usual tourist circuits. Let’s go together to discover these hidden treasures of Japan.

Discover Japan off the beaten track

It’s easy to get hung up on familiar names when planning a trip to the Land of the Rising Sun. However, it is by moving away from the most touristy towns that we discover the true essence of the Japanese culture. This section will introduce you to destinations that are often forgotten, but which are nevertheless worth exploring.

Little-known islands of Japan

We cannot talk about Japan without mentioning his he is. The archipelago has more than 6,800 islands, many of which remain hidden from view. Among them, the island of Shikoku, often overlooked in favor of more famous destinations, nevertheless offers an authentic and unique travel experience. With its hot springs, ancient pilgrimage trails and tasty local cuisine, Shikoku is a destination in its own right worth exploring.

Little-known cities in Japan

Apart from famous metropolises like Tokyo or Osaka, the Japan is home to many towns that deserve to be known. Take the city of Kanazawa for example. Nicknamed “little Kyoto”, it is famous for its traditional geisha district, its magnificent Kenroku-en park and its imposing castle.

Natural Japan: national parks and mountains

Japan is not just bustling cities and centuries-old temples. It is also unspoiled nature, majestic mountains and national parks of breathtaking beauty. If you are a nature lover, these destinations are for you.

National parks of Japan

THE Japan has no less than 34 national parks, each offering a unique experience. Daisetsuzan National Park, for example, is the largest in the country. Located on the island of Hokkaido, it offers an unparalleled hiking experience, with diverse flora and fauna, and breathtaking landscapes.

Mount Fuji and beyond

Mount Fuji is certainly the emblem of Japan, but it is not the only mountain worth exploring. Indeed, the Land of the Rising Sun is home to many other peaks that offer spectacular views and unique hiking experiences.

Rail experience: the Japan Rail Pass

If you want to explore Japan in depth, the Japan Rail Pass is a must. It offers unlimited access to most trains across the country, including the famous Shinkansen. It is the ideal tool for discovering lesser-known regions of Japan.

Tokyo-Hakone: a getaway not to be missed

In addition to Tokyo, a trip to Hakone is a must during your trip to Japan. Located just an hour by train from the capital thanks to the Japan Rail Pass, Hakone is a mountain town famous for its hot springs and stunning views of Mount Fuji.

The final word: the essence of Japan off the beaten track

Rediscover the Japan through his little-known destinations is an unforgettable experience. Whether you are a nature lover, a culture lover or a history buff, the land of the rising sun will surprise and amaze you. So, on your next trip, don’t hesitate to get off the beaten track to explore these hidden treasures of Japan. The true heart of the country, its history, its culture and its people, await you there.