Japan’s beauty goes far beyond the popular tourist spots. Whether you’re dreaming of misty mountains, snowy villages, or tropical beaches, these hiden gems destinations offer something truly magical—without the crowds. Explore these underrated travel gems in Japan that are worth adding to your itinerary.
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🏯 Shirakawa-go (Gifu Prefecture)
This UNESCO World Heritage village is famous for its gassho-zukuri thatched-roof farmhouses. It’s like walking into a fairytale, especially in winter.
Best Things to Do:
- Visit Wada House (historic farmhouse)
- Enjoy night-time illumination (Jan–Feb)
- Stay overnight in a traditional inn
If you’re planning to visit Shirakawa-go during winter, pack warm! The region is blanketed in snow and temperatures drop below freezing. A heated jacket and waterproof snow boots can make your trip way more comfortable.
🕰️ Ouchi-juku (Fukushima Prefecture)
A preserved Edo-period town with no power lines, Ouchi-juku is ideal for stepping back in time.
Best Things to Do:
- Eat soba with a green onion (negi soba)
- Wear traditional clothes
- Explore the historic street
🌋 Aogashima Island (Tokyo Prefecture)
A volcanic island that’s remote and surreal. It’s technically part of Tokyo but feels like another world.
Best Things to Do:
- Hike inside a volcanic crater
- Relax in geothermal saunas
- Stargaze under a crystal-clear sky
If you’re planning to hike up to the crater or capture the island’s dramatic scenery, make sure to pack some lightweight hiking gear and, if possible, a drone camera to get breathtaking aerial shots. The views from above are absolutely unreal — especially during sunrise or sunset.
Photo by Susann Schuster on Unsplash
Photo by Susann Schuster on Unsplash
🌉 Iya Valley (Tokushima, Shikoku)
One of Japan’s most secluded and scenic areas, featuring dramatic vine bridges and deep valleys.
Best Things to Do:
- Cross Kazurabashi Vine Bridge
- Visit the “Peeing Boy” statue
- Stay in a mountainside ryokan
Public transport is limited here, it’s best to carry a good travel backpack to store essentials for day trips. And for a truly authentic experience, book a traditional Japanese inn (ryokan), where you can enjoy a relaxing stay with tatami rooms, onsen baths, and local mountain cuisine.
🏯 Kanazawa (Ishikawa Prefecture)
A cultural gem with samurai districts, geisha tea houses, and Kenrokuen Garden—one of the top gardens in Japan.
Best Things to Do:
- Walk through Higashi Chaya District
- Visit Kenrokuen Garden
- Try gold leaf ice cream
🏜️ Tottori Sand Dunes (Tottori Prefecture)
Japan’s mini desert experience with sandboarding, camels, and a sand sculpture museum
Best Things to Do:
- Ride a camel along the dunes
- Visit the Sand Museum
- Try sandboarding
- Ride a camel along the dunes
you’re up for some dune adventures, pack some sandboarding gear or rent it locally. Also, bring light, breathable desert clothing — the sand can get hot, and the sun strong, especially in summer.
🏰 Takeda Castle Ruins (Hyogo Prefecture)
Known as the “Machu Picchu of Japan,” these ruins appear to float on clouds during early morning fog.
Best Things to Do:
- Hike up before sunrise
- Explore castle ruins
- Soak in nearby hot springs
- Hike up before sunrise
To fully enjoy the hike and capture the magic, bring comfortable hiking shoes for the uphill trek, and don’t forget your photography accessories like a tripod or zoom lens — especially if you want that iconic “castle in the sky” shot.
🏝️ Zamami Island (Okinawa Prefecture)
A hidden beach paradise just a short ferry ride from Naha. Amazing snorkeling and laid-back vibes await.
Best Things to Do:
- Snorkel with sea turtles
- Whale watching (Jan–Mar)
- Chill at Furuzamami Beach
To make the most of it, bring your own snorkeling gear for underwater adventures, comfortable swimwear, and a waterproof bag to protect your phone, camera, and valuables while you’re at the beach.
🌄 10. Magome & Tsumago (Kiso Valley)
These charming towns are connected by a peaceful trail along the ancient Nakasendo route. No cars, just nature and nostalgia.
Best Things to Do:
- Hike the 8km trail
- Eat gohei mochi (grilled rice cake)
- Stay in a traditional minshuku
The hike is gentle but long, so carrying walking poles can help reduce strain and make the journey more enjoyable, especially on uneven ground or forest inclines.
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