Japan is a fascinating and enthralling nation, which offers a diverse range of experiences for the intrepid voyager. The Land of the Rising Sun boasts an abundance of spectacular natural landscapes, from snow-capped mountains to pristine beaches, as well as a dynamic and complex cultural heritage that has captivated visitors for centuries. Indeed, Japan is a truly alluring destination for tourists from around the world.
While the Golden Route is undoubtedly the most famous tourist trail in Japan, encompassing the cities of Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, there are countless other prefectures and cities that offer hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. For those seeking to delve deeper into Japan’s enigmatic charms and venture beyond the beaten path, there are a plethora of exquisite destinations to explore:
Kanagawa Prefecture – A Serene Coastal Getaway from Tokyo
Kanagawa Prefecture, a coastal getaway located southwest of Tokyo, is a coveted destination for those seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. Yokohama City, the capital of this prefecture, is conveniently linked to Tokyo Station, a mere 40-minute train ride away. Kanagawa Prefecture boasts a plethora of distinctive experiences that make it the perfect weekend escape from Tokyo. Among the notable tourist attractions are Minato Mirai 21 (MM21) and Chinatown in Yokohama, Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise, Kotoku-In Temple in Kamakura, and Odawara.
Saitama Prefecture – A Nature-Lover’s Paradise
Saitama Prefecture borders Tokyo on the northern side and is easily accessible via a well-connected rail and road transportation network. The northern and western part of Saitama Prefecture is abundant with nature, including the Chichibu region known for its many mountains and temples. The Nagatoro Valley is renowned for its beautiful scenery and whitewater rafting, while Kawagoe is an old town that is decked with quaint historical buildings, including shrines, restaurants, and souvenir shops. The Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel, the Bonsai Museum, the Railway Museum, and a tour of sake breweries are some other top places to visit in Saitama.
Shizuoka Prefecture – A Natural Wonderland
Located southwest of Tokyo, Shizuoka Prefecture is famous for its natural landscapes and is easily reachable by bullet train from Central Tokyo within an hour. It’s a perfect destination for nature lovers as it offers beaches, highland resorts, onsens surrounded by nature, marine sports activities, and more. Izu is a popular day trip destination from Tokyo, but it takes at least a few days to fully explore it. Atami and Ito are two popular resort towns, with Atami being the gateway to the Izu Peninsula. Taking the Shinkansen from Tokyo Station is the quickest way to reach Atami and is included in the JR Pass. Atami is famous for bay cruises, illuminated waterfront, and year-round fireworks displays, while Ito is a relaxing resort town.
Aichi Prefecture: The Manufacturing Epitome of Japan
Aichi prefecture, nestled in the Chubu region of Japan, is the largest urban agglomeration in the area. This bustling region has become a byword for its industrial edifices, and the world-renowned car manufacturer, Toyota, has erected its administrative centre in Aichi. For wanderers travelling from Tokyo to Kyoto along the Golden Route, it serves as an idyllic rest stop. Aichi encompasses Nagoya City, the capital of the Aichi prefecture, which is lauded for its iconic Nagoya Castle. This castle stands as a historical site of import, emblematic of the region’s bygone grandeur. In addition, vacationers can also revel in their beloved Ghibli characters’ animatronics at the newly inaugurated Ghibli Park located in the Aichi Earth Expo Memorial Park.
Mie Prefecture: A Confluence of Nature and Spirituality
Mie prefecture, sited in the heart of Japan, is an idyllic destination for those voyagers seeking a fusion of nature and spirituality. The prefecture encompasses an assorted terrain, from plains to mountainous terrains, which provide a plethora of attractions for travellers. The prefectural center, Tsu City, can be traversed within 3 hours from Tokyo, 90 minutes from Osaka, and 50 minutes from Nagoya.
Ise-Shima is among the top picks for travellers to experience Japan’s spiritual moorings. The Ise Jingu shrine, steeped in a rich legacy and antiquity dating back to ancient times, is an awe-inspiring sight of natural pulchritude, encompassing islands of varying magnitudes.
Kumano-Kodo, a time-honoured route in Kumano, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, serving as a spiritual locus and pilgrimage route nestled in the Kii Mountains. Mie Prefecture also proffers a sundry of sightseeing spots, including the Ninja Experience, Nagashima Spaland, and Iga City, which has gained notoriety for its wholehearted embrace of ninja culture and history. Nabana no Sato Illumination is a theme park for families, showcasing millions of LEDs, located in Kuwana City, which is also easily accessible from Nagoya City in Aichi Prefecture.
Experience the Fusion of History and Modernity in Hyogo Prefecture
Hyogo prefecture, located in western-central Japan’s Kansai region, boasts a unique fusion of historical landmarks and cosmopolitan culture. The city of Kobe, the prefecture’s capital, is a bustling port town that seamlessly blends modern and traditional cultures. Kitano-cho, home to Western-style houses steeped in history, and the world-famous Chinatown in Kobe are two of the city’s must-visit destinations. However, one of the most awe-inspiring landmarks in the region is the UNESCO heritage site, Himeji Castle, one of Japan’s original castles. From man-made islands like Port Island and Rokko Island to numerous museums and entertainment spots, Hyogo prefecture is a place where visitors can experience the best of both worlds.
Discover Nara Prefecture: A Hidden Gem for Nature Enthusiasts
Nara Prefecture, often overlooked by tourists, is a hidden gem that offers visitors breathtaking natural beauty, captivating townscapes, and an array of national treasures. Located just an hour away from Kyoto, Osaka, and even Tokyo by train, Nara gives visitors a glimpse into Japan’s rich history and culture. With three UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara, Buddhist Monuments in the Horyuji Area, and Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range, visitors can explore centuries-old temples, shrines, and pilgrimage routes. Nara Park is another attraction in Nara City, spanning over 660 hectares and home to free-roaming deer. Besides feeding the deer, the park also offers cultural events, illuminations, and historic temples and shrines that are worth exploring.
Unleash Your Spiritual Side in Wakayama Prefecture
Wakayama Prefecture, the spiritual heartland of Japan, combines nature and spirituality to provide visitors with a unique experience. The Nakahechi route, stretching from Tanabe City to Shingu City across the peninsula, is the main pilgrimage route in the region. The Kumano Sanzan, a group of three grand shrines considered sacred to the region, can be found along the route. The Kumano area also has several subsidiary shrines known as Oji shrines, which provide pilgrims with a place to rest, perform purification rites, and pray. Outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in various activities such as river cruises, kayaking, camping, and log rafting. In addition, visitors can explore the region’s highlights, including the Nachi Waterfall, known for its breathtaking beauty, the Nachi Fire Festival, whale watching, and the Doro-kyo Gorge, which looks stunning in the spring and autumn when the cherry blossoms and leaves change colours.
To discover more about Golden Route [Basic], visit:
https://www.japan.travel/en/in/itineraries/golden-route/
