The Ultimate Off-The-Beaten-Path & Hiking Traverse of Japan

Visit this architectural and engineering marvel. The tower uses a central core design inspired by ancient five-story pagodas to counteract seismic activity, and features a triangular base to maximize stability on a limited footprint.

A fantastic day hike offering unobstructed views of Mount Fuji. The trail is 5 km long and takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. You can reach the trailhead via a direct bus from Shinjuku Station. Continue along the ridgeline over two other peaks to finish at Lake Yamanaka.

An authentic, historic town easily accessible from Tokyo. Take the Shinkansen to Utsunomiya Station and transfer to the JR Nikko Line. Be sure to try the local specialty, Yuba (soy milk skin), which is a delicious vegetarian option.

Take a local bus from Nikko Station and get off at this stop to access the stunning waterfalls and scenic lake within easy walking distance.

The deepest underground train station in Japan, sitting 70 meters below ground. Prepare to climb 486 concrete steps to reach the exit, as there are no elevators. The station is unmanned and has a uniquely eerie, abandoned atmosphere.

A beautifully preserved historic post town. If visiting in winter, don't miss the incredible snow festival featuring local food stalls, games, and a traditional fire festival. Access via train to Yunokami Onsen Station, then a 20-minute bus ride.

A hidden gem featuring a milky, natural outdoor hot spring surrounded by misty forests. To get here, take the train from Nagano Station to Sekiyama Station, then catch the local bus to the end of the line (500 yen, does not run on weekends/holidays).

One of the premier peaks in the Northern Alps. Rent crampons at the Sarukura trailhead to hike up and over the massive snow valley glacier. The mountain hut near the peak offers private rooms and a full restaurant.

An unbelievable high-altitude mountain hut featuring natural hot spring water bubbling straight out of the ground. Soak in the open-air bath while watching the sunrise over the mountains. It is a 4-hour hike back down to the Sarukura trailhead.

The majestic gateway to the Northern Alps. This pristine highland valley serves as the starting point for numerous alpine treks and offers stunning flat walks along the Azusa River.

A spectacular glacial basin in the Northern Alps. This overnight hike takes 5 to 6 hours one way. Stay at one of the two comfortable mountain huts or the campsite. It is exceptionally famous for its vibrant autumn colors in late September.

A magical, historic village famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri (thatched roof) houses. Accessible via a 50-minute bus ride from Takayama Station. Once in town, the entire area is easily explored on foot.

A breathtaking sacred site featuring Japan's tallest single-drop waterfall with a majestic three-story pagoda standing in front of it. Access by taking the train to Ki-Katsura Station, then a 30-minute bus to the Nachinotakimaya stop.

A charming, historic canal district lined with willow trees, traditional storehouses, cozy cafes, and local shops. Located just a scenic 10-minute walk from JR Kurashiki Station.

A stunning hike featuring lush, rolling green hills and layers of distant mountain peaks. Take the cable car up and hike 40 minutes to the peak, or complete the 2-hour hike from the base. Stay overnight at the summit hut for an incredible sunrise.

A unique seaside town famous for its intense geothermal activity and rising steam vents. Fly to Fukuoka Airport and take the train down to Beppu Station to begin your exploration.

Embark on the famous Jigoku 'Hell' tour to view spectacular, multi-colored hot springs that are too hot to bathe in but incredibly beautiful to photograph.

A highly recommended coastal experience where you are buried in warm sand heated by natural underground steam vents while looking out over the ocean.

A massive national park centered around an active volcano. Renting a car is highly recommended to explore the various viewpoints. Alternatively, take the Kyushu Odan bus from Kumamoto Airport (50 minutes).

A unique winter festival built entirely on a frozen lake. Features an outdoor onsen on the ice and a frozen bar where you can enjoy drinks served in glasses made of solid ice. Take the train to Obihiro Station, then a 2-hour bus.

A stunningly designed concrete chapel by master architect Tadao Ando, relying heavily on light, shadows, and sharp angles. Located at the Hoshino Resort; take a train to Tomamu Station, then a 5-minute shuttle.

A world-famous, strikingly bright blue pond. The unique color is caused by natural minerals in the water. Best visited before heavy winter snowpacks cover the surface. Take a 20-minute bus from Biei Station.

A gorgeous, untouched tropical island located between Okinawa and Kyushu. It offers pristine beaches and a relaxed island vibe without the tourist crowds. Renting a car is highly recommended due to limited public transit.