Japan is often listed on bucket lists because of its impressive cities and lengthy history. While Tokyo is a bustling city, the temples of Kyoto are beautiful, and Osaka’s Dotonbori is entertaining, none of them have the charm of these small towns in Japan.
The countryside of Japan has unique landscapes varying from mountains to lakes, lush forests to farmlands. You won’t be bored when visiting these small towns in Japan. They each have their own charm with plenty of things to do, with the opportunity to learn about suburban Japanese culture and lifestyle.
There’s a map at the bottom of the post so you can easily discover the best small towns in Japan!
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Biei
Biei is a charming town located 25 km south-southeast of Asahikawa city in Hokkaido. The area is well known for its picturesque rolling hills, lush fields and un-Japanese landscape.
The beauty of Biei dates back to the 1900s when farmers began plowing the local fields and planting various crops such as potatoes, wheat, and sugar beets. In 1971, landscape photographer Shinzo Maeda was captivated by the fields stunning panorama and introduced it through his photo books, sparking a surge of young visitors from across the country in the 1980s and 90s. The town center can be found around JR Biei station, and includes several shops
and restaurants. The northwestern area of the station has been dubbed “Road of Patchwork” while further south lies “Panoramic Road” – both perfect spots for sightseeing. There is also a route called Refresh Line that takes you to the foot of Mount Tokachidake (2,077 m), an active volcano situated at the eastern side of Biei. At the foot of the volcano, you will find Shirogane hot spring resort where you can submerge yourself in nature and soak in the atmosphere at one of the hotels dotted around the area including Taisetsusan Shirogane Kankou Hotel and Mori no Ryotei Biei.
For more information on what to see in Biei, especially if you don’t speak enough Japanese to converse with local farmers, head to Shiki no Tou (the “Tower of Four Seasons”) – located 500 meters southeast from station – where you will find maps and can take in the scenic views from the 32 meter-high observatory post. The local information center is advising tourists to refrain from entering any field or meadow so as not to disrupt local farmers while they are hard at work.
Chatan
Chatan is one of those towns in Okinawa, Japan which is small enough to really get a feel for the locality but still large enough you will find plenty of fun things to do. Located in the central park of Okinawa Island in the Nakagami District, you will definitely want to stop by here during your tour of Japan. You won’t need a JR here but there are still plenty of transportation options like buses, taxis, or even renting a car for the time you are here.
For fun things to do you will find plenty. The American Village is a retail and shopping center designed to look like an amusement park with a Ferris wheel almost as the common landmark in the background. Nice promenades, restaurants, bars, and boutique shops make it seem like you are not even in a small town.
If you rather relax in the sun the beaches here are fantastic and close by. You would not believe how clear and blue the water is around Japan. Plenty of spots to go surfing or even scuba diving if you prefer some water activities. End the day with some amazing sunset views at the Chatan Fisharina or along the Sunabe beach.
And of course, we cannot forget the food. You can of course choose to have traditional Japanese food like pork belly, ramen, or soba and top it off with some traditional Habushu. We recommend staying at the 4-Star Beach Tower which will have all your needs. Or if you are traveling on a budget, you will find several accommodating hostels and guesthouses on Airbnb.
Yes, you will not want to miss out on spending at least a day here if not longer. Every minute you find yourself on an adventure in Japan is well spent.
Hagi
Hagi, is a small castle town located in the Japanese Prefecture of Yamaguchi on the southern tip of Honshu. Hagi is located right along the Sea of Japan and is surrounded by mountainous terrain. Not the easiest town to get to without a personal vehicle but traveling to Hagi is doable by train. The easiest way to reach Hagi would be to take the Shinkansen to the city of Yamaguchi. This rail is accessible using the JR Pass because travelers can take the Sakura Line. From Shin-Yamaguchi visitors can take a two-hour train ride to Hagi.
The town center of Hagi is walkable but many of the attractions are located on the outskirts of town. Some attractions are within walking distance while others are further out. For attractions that are further out, it is recommended to take a taxi, bicycle, or rent a car and drive.
Within the town of Hagi, there are the Hagi Castle Ruins. These ruins are fun to explore and are located right by a beautiful beach and park, also worth exploring. One of Japan’s best kept secrets is Toko-ji Temple in Hagi and is the family temple of the Mori Clan. For the perfect nature escape, not far from Toko-ji, is Mt. Kasayama, Myojin Pond, and the Camellia Groves, with some of the most unique trees in all of Japan.
If planning on staying in Hagi for more than one day then there are a variety of hotel options from hostels to traditional Ryokan hotels. For a hotel that won’t put a dent in the wallet, the Hagi Royal Intelligent Hotel is perfect for a one-night stay. For dinner, why not try a local restaurant like Ajiro, which is a popular local place for seafood.
Hakone
Hakone is a beautiful mountainous town located in the Kanagawa Prefecture of Japan. It is situated about 100 kilometers southwest of Tokyo, making it perfect for a day trip for those with a longer Tokyo itinerary.
Hakone is easily accessible by public transportation. If you have the JR Pass, you can take the Shinkansen to Odawara Station and then the short 15-minute train ride to Hakone Yumoto at the base of the Hakone mountains. For those without one, you can take the local JR Tokaido Line to Odawara Station. Once in Hakone, you can rely on various modes of transportation like buses, trains, and the scenic Hakone Ropeway to explore the area.
Hakone has several attractions and activities that visitors can enjoy, and among them are hot springs (onsen), taking the Hakone Ropeway, visiting the local art museums, and just relaxing by Lake Ashi. Hakone is one of the most popular onsen towns near Tokyo, and visitors should definitely stop by one. When you are on the Hakone Ropeway, make sure you stop at Owakudani where you can see some volcanic activity!
For a recommendation on a place to eat, visitors should consider trying the local Japanese curries. Luckily, there is a spot in town called Cocoro. It is super affordable and even has beer, wine & whiskey!
For a place to stay, visitors have plenty of options, including traditional ryokans (Japanese inns), guesthouses, hotels, and resorts. Kinnotake Tonosawa is a great choice for those looking for a luxurious and traditional Japanese experience with its tatami rooms and private hot spring baths!
Kamakura
Kamakura is a coastal city located in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. It is a popular destination for both Japanese and foreign tourists because of its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and laid-back atmosphere. Here are a few reasons why you should consider visiting Kamakura.
Firstly, Kamakura is home to some of Japan’s most iconic temples and shrines. The city was once the capital of Japan during the Kamakura period (1185-1333), and many of the historic temples and shrines from this era are still standing today. The most famous of these is the Great Buddha of Kamakura, a massive bronze statue that dates back to the 13th century. Other notable temples and shrines include the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Hasedera Temple, and Kenchoji Temple.
In addition to its cultural heritage, Kamakura is also renowned for its natural beauty. The city is located on the coast of Sagami Bay, and is surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills. Visitors can hike through the hills to see stunning views of the bay, or relax on one of the many beaches that line the coast.
Kamakura is also known for its laid-back atmosphere and charming streets. The city has a thriving arts and culture scene, with plenty of galleries, boutiques, and cafes to explore. The streets are lined with traditional Japanese houses and quaint shops selling souvenirs and local delicacies.
Finally, Kamakura is just a short train ride from Tokyo, making it an easy day trip for visitors to the city. Despite its proximity to the capital, Kamakura feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, and offers visitors a chance to slow down and enjoy the beauty of Japan’s natural and cultural heritage.
Kanazawa
Kanazawa in the Hokuriku region is one of Japan’s most beautiful historic towns. Best known as a well-preserved ancient district, it is one of the most-visited small Japanese towns by the locals.
This charming historic city is small enough to explore in two days (follow this Kanazawa Itinerary), yet it is filled with many cultural things to do.
For the historical experience, visit the Edo-era districts, such as Nagamachi Samurai District and Higashi Chaya District. Samurai had the highest social status during that period. During its golden years, the city was responsible for 99 percent of the country’s gold leaf production. With the money flowing in, entertainment businesses such as Geisha teahouses were thriving. There are a couple of these teahouses open to the public.
Another pride of Kanazawa is Kenrokuen Garden. It is said to be one of the top 3 most beautiful Japanese gardens. This classic Japanese garden boasts seasonally-changing scenery with sakura, plum blossoms, maple trees, and snow-covered pine trees.
In the town dotted with ancient architecture, you will also find the 21st Century Museum, one of Japan’s most popular contemporary art museums. From the most famous Swimming Pool to the Color Activity House, the exhibits here are beautiful and original.
If you visit Kanazawa in winter, get some snow crabs in season. For munchies, don’t forget to try local specialty desserts, such as gold-leaf soft-serve ice cream, gold-leaf manju, and gold-leaf anything!
The best way to get to Kanazawa from other major cities in Japan is via the Shinkansen bullet train. Kanazawa Station itself is an architectural gem. But the journey on the Japanese rail is pleasant and fast as well. For example, it only takes about 2.5-3 hours from Tokyo or 1 hour from Nagano.
Kinosaki Onsen Town
The small Japanese town of Kinosaki is in Hyogo Prefecture, the town is centered around a small river, that is lined with willow trees and is famous primarily for the seven public onsen baths. If you’re looking for an onsen experience in Japan, then this is the perfect place to come. And there are also plenty of ryokans here, with some super experiences to be had from a foodie perspective. Kinosaki is famous for snow crab Kaiseki Ryori meals which makes a ryokan experience here just perfect. And there are some spectacular ryokans to stay at in Kinosaki the oldest and probably most glorious is the Nishimuraya Honkan. Kinosaki Onsen is perfectly located on the JR train network, making it free to access if you have a JR Pass, it’s just 2.5 hours from Kyoto on the Kinosaki Limited Express train. You can easily visit Kinosaki for the day and pay a daily fee to access the onsens, which are glorious, or stay overnight and get free access included in your ryokan or hotel rates. Kinosaki is the perfect town to wander around in your ryokan provided traditional yukata and getos, but if you crave a little more, then there’s also a ropeway with some magnificent views of Mount Kuruhi, or hiking if you prefer it. That said. Kinosaki is one of the best places in Japan simply to relax. Stay at a ryokan, head to an onsen (or seven), and enjoy the location!
Koyasan
Koyasan is definitely one of the most beautiful small towns in Japan. As its name suggests, this idyllic place is located on Mount Koya in the Wakayama Prefecture in Japan. With more than 115 temples and more than 600 monks, Koyasan is considered the most sacred place in all of Japan, and that’s not the only reason it’s a simply great destination to visit.
You can reach this terrific little town from the Japanese metropolis of Osaka within about 2 ½ hours by train. Unfortunately, not all the route is covered by the JR Pass, but it still helps you save on the price.
When you visit Koyasan, you’ll immediately be drawn into the spiritual atmosphere of the region. Discover the largest cemetery in Japan, surrounded by giant trees and a beautiful small forest area. Walk around and take in the mystical atmosphere and magnificent nature. The Okunoin Temple is also located here. Visit it early in the morning to listen to the impressive prayer of the monks.
Afterward, you should definitely visit the neighboring Lantern Hall. The hall is filled with dozens of lights and, in this way with, a unique, almost magical ambiance. However, you should not take photos here. The monks consider this place so sacred that taking pictures is not allowed.
In Koyasan, accommodation is already an activity in itself. Because here, you can stay with the monks in a temple and follow their daily routine for one night. This is a unique experience. Several temples in the town offer this service, so you can undoubtedly discover the right one for you.
Kurashiki
Situated near Okayama in the Sanyo region of Japan’s Honshu, Kurashiki is one of the most popular tourist destinations among the locals.
The city is nicknamed the “Mini-Kyoto”, and the easiest way to get there is by JR. Most visitors stay in Okayama and the two stations are connected by frequent train services along the Sanyo Line. It takes merely 15 minutes from Okayama Station to Kurashiki Station, and the train fare is 330 Japanese yen one way. For Japan Rail Pass and JR Kansai Wide Pass holders, the train fare is fully covered.
The Bikan historical quarter is the focal point of Kurashiki and it has a couple of important sites to visit. The Ohara Museum is the first art museum in Japan to feature a permanent collection of western art, showcasing art pieces from artists including Henri Matisse, Paul Gauguin, and Pierre-Auguste Renoir.
Take a pleasant and nostalgic walk in the quarter, hop on the rickshaw, or sit in a boat and sail down the canals where the guide will give a rather interesting tour of the highlights. Have lunch at the Yasohachi Shouten, a charming traditional-style restaurant that has great taste and a good atmosphere.
Kurashiki is also one of the best places to see cherry blossoms in Japan during springtime. Plan a 5-day itinerary to see the best of Sanyo from Okayama to Hiroshima, with Kurashiki in between. For an overnight stay in Kurashiki, head to Kurashiki Kokusai Hotel which is located conveniently between the historical quarter and Kurashiki JR Station.
Lake Kawaguchiko
Lake Kawaguchiko is a breathtakingly beautiful destination in Japan that offers visitors a truly unique experience. Nestled in the foothills of the magnificent Mount Fuji, Lake Kawaguchiko is a popular spot for nature lovers, hikers, and those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Japan’s big cities. Here are just a few reasons why you should consider visiting this stunning location.
Firstly, the natural beauty of Lake Kawaguchiko is truly awe-inspiring. Surrounded by lush forests and crystal-clear waters, the lake offers visitors stunning views of Mount Fuji from almost any angle. The area is particularly beautiful during cherry blossom season, when the trees around the lake burst into bloom and create a sea of pink petals.
In addition to its stunning natural beauty, there are plenty of things to do in Lake Kawaguchiko. From hiking and cycling to fishing and boating, there are plenty of ways to get active and explore the area. There are also several hot springs and spas in the region, making it a great place to relax and unwind after a long day of exploring.
Another reason to visit Lake Kawaguchiko is its rich cultural heritage. The area is home to several museums and art galleries, including the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum, which showcases the work of one of Japan’s most famous textile artists. Visitors can also experience traditional Japanese culture at the Fuji Omuro Sengen Shrine, a beautiful shrine that dates back to the 9th century.
Overall, Lake Kawaguchiko is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Japan. With its stunning natural beauty, range of activities, and rich cultural heritage, it offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to relax and unwind or get out and explore, this beautiful location is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.
Matsumoto
Matsumoto is a delightful city located in the mountainous Nagano Prefecture, renowned for its beautiful castle and charming streets. We highly recommend adding it to any Japan itinerary.
Getting to Matsumoto is relatively easy. The best option is to take the JR Limited Express train from Nagano to Matsumoto, which takes approximately an hour and is included in the JR Pass.
Matsumoto’s black castle has been designated as a national treasure. The castle, also known as crow’s castle, is one of the oldest surviving castles in Japan. It is entirely built from wood, using traditional Japanese techniques, without the use of nails. The castle’s unique construction allows it to be disassembled and reassembled like a jigsaw puzzle.
However, visitors should be warned that the stairs inside the castle are quite steep, resembling ladders more than stairs, and can be tiring to climb. Nevertheless, the panoramic views from the top are truly breathtaking.
In addition to the castle, Matsumoto boasts charming old streets and traditional architecture. Nakamachi street, for instance, is lined with traditional wooden houses and shops, giving visitors a glimpse of what life was like in Matsumoto during the Edo period.
Art enthusiasts can also find much to appreciate in Matsumoto, with its many museums and galleries.
The Matsumoto City Museum of Art is a modern museum with an impressive collection of contemporary Japanese art. The Japan Folk Crafts Museum showcases traditional Japanese crafts, while the Ukiyo-e Museum features a collection of Japanese woodblock prints.
Matsumoto is a relatively small city, and many of its main attractions are all within walking distance of the train station. We, therefore, recommend choosing a hotel near the station for convenience, such as Onyado Nono Matsumoto. If you’re seeking a traditional Japanese experience, consider staying at a ryokan, which is a type of traditional Japanese inn, such as Oiwakeya Ryokan.
Miyajima
Home to Japan’s famous floating Torii gate, Miyajima Island is the perfect day trip from Hiroshima. Just 45 minutes from Hiroshima, the island is loved for plumes of fluffy cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant maple leaves in autumn. Deer roam freely down streets lined by traditional wooden houses and shrines and temples pepper the hillsides.
Itsukushima Shrine is the most popular attraction on the island, perched on the seafront it’s the setting of the vermillion Torii gate that has become an icon for Japan.
For exceptional views across the Seto Inland Sea and the wider Hiroshima city region, take the ropeway to the top of Mount Misen. Admire the vistas from the Shishi-iaw Station lookout and continue to the very top of the mountain to pay a visit to the Mount Misen Observatory.
A must-visit on Miyajima is Daisho-in Temple, known for its 500 Buddha statues. Learn about the temple’s significance throughout history as you explore the complex of various buildings and gardens.
You can’t explore Miyajima without trying Momiji Manju. This delicious dessert is made of buckwheat shaped like a maple leaf that encases fillings such as red bean paste, custard, chocolate, and matcha. There are plenty of shops along Omoto Sando Shotengai to pick up a box.
If you want to spend a night, book in a stay at Kikunoya to enjoy Japanese-style rooms and a soak in the on-site onsen. Both the train from Hiroshima to Miyajimaguchi and the short ferry across to the island are covered by the JR Rail Pass, so there’s no excuse not to pay this charming isle a visit.
Myoko Kogen
Myoko Kogen is a ski region best known for being one of Japan’s oldest ski resorts, rich with culture, local eateries and traditional Japanese onsen baths. Located 2.5 hours from Tokyo by train, you’ll find the village of Akakura Onsen at the base of the Myoko Kogen ski resorts.
To get to Myoko from Tokyo, catch the shinkansen to Nagano (covered by JR pass) and then jump on the local train from Nagano to Myokokogen Station (850 yen, not covered by JR Pass).
Thanks to the quality and amount of snow the region receives each year, the main thing to do in Myoko Kogen is of course, hit the mountains on your skis or snowboard! However, come summer, you will also find numerous hiking trails on the mountain to explore.
Another popular activity in the region is a visit to the Jigokudani Monkey Park. An hour’s drive from Myoko Kogen you’ll come across natural hot springs that are frequented by monkeys. Whilst open all year round, winter is the best time to visit to see monkeys in the hot spring surrounded by snow.
In Akakura Onsen you’ll find many traditional Japanese izakayas to eat and drink at. Visit Yakitori Asagao for yakitori in a small, cosy restaurant on the main street, or head to Sennin Izakaya to feast on okonomiyaki (Japanese savoury pancake).
For accommodation, Myoko Mountain Lodge offers great value accommodation only a 5-minute drive from Akakura Onsen. The rooms are cosy, offering a mix of Western and Japanese-style tatami mat rooms. Enjoy a hearty breakfast each morning cooked by the owner, which will have you ready to go for a big day on the slopes!
Nago
Nago is a beautiful city located in the northern part of the island of Okinawa, Japan. In order to get to Nago, you will have to fly to Okinawa, and either take a taxi or rent a car from the Naha Airport. Unfortunately, the JR Pass cannot be used for transportation within Okinawa. While this might be inconvenient for some travelers, Nago is still well worth the visit!
One of the top things to do in Nago is to visit the famous Pineapple Park. Here, you can learn about the history of pineapples in Okinawa and see how they are cultivated. The best part is at the end, when you can drink the freshest pineapple juice that you’ve ever had!
If you’re looking for a unique cultural experience, be sure to check out the Nago Castle Park. Although the castle was destroyed during World War II, the stone walls and watchtowers remain today. From the top of the castle hill, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area, including the nearby ocean and mountains. There is also a traditional Okinawan Garden nearby for visitors to see.
For a delicious meal, I highly recommend trying out one of the many kaiten-zushi restaurants in Nago. These restaurants serve plates of sushi on conveyor belts that cross the entire restaurant. Whenever you see something that you like, you just grab it from the conveyor belt and pay by the plate. Hama-Sushi Nago is a great option. A great nearby budget hotel is Super Hotel Okinawa Nago. This is also conveniently located between the Pineapple Park and the Nago Castle Park.
Nago’s diverse combination of historical landmarks, beautiful natural scenery, and unique cultural experiences make it the perfect destination for travelers seeking a fulfilling vacation.
Narita
A lovely small town in Japan is Narita. Known for being the home of Tokyo Narita International Airport, it’s the perfect location to visit, especially on a long layover at Narita airport. It has two train stations and is on two different train lines. Despite the name, the Keisei line to Narita is faster than the Narita line, taking just 10 minutes from the airport with trains running approximately every 30 minutes.
One of the best things to do in Narita is to visit the Naritasan Shinshoji Temple and Park, it is one of the biggest buddhist temples in Japan. The temple is free to visit but there are lots of opportunities to leave donations, including taking part in a Goma Fire Ritual where people’s prayers are thrown into a fire.
Naritasan Park is well worth wandering around too. There’s a small waterfall tucked away in the woods as well as a large pond filled with koi carp.
Omostesando Narita is a narrow historic street full of shops and lots of Unagi (freshwater eel) restaurants. Pilgrims used to walk from Tokyo City to Naritasan Temple, with the last section of the route being along Omostesando Street.
Unagi, which was found and caught locally, was grilled and served with rice. It was a popular choice with the pilgrims as eel is good for nutrition and stamina. This traditional dish still stands today, with some of the restaurants preparing the eel in the open for people passing by to watch.
Kawatoyo (right opposite the tourist information centre) is a great Unagi restaurant. It’s been in business for over 100 years and has both western seating as well as traditional Japanese seating. Unagi (in sauce) and rice dishes start from 2600 yen.
Nikko
“See no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil” – you might be surprised to find this phrase originates from the intricate carvings of the Three Wise Monkeys at the Tōshōgū Shrine in Nikko Japan. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a little over a two-hour train ride north of Tokyo, making it a perfect getaway for the whole family (that might include your dog if you brought it to Japan!). You may want to avoid the weekends if possible since it can get very crowded. The Japan Rail (JR) Pass can be used for this journey with an extra fee if you start from Tubo Station.
Nikko is a stunning town, nestled in the midst of beautiful mountains. You can easily pass the time walking around and appreciating the natural beauty. The iconic Shinkyo Bridge, with its vivid red color and intricate design, is especially beautiful in the fall when the leaves change color and create a breathtaking backdrop.
While the Tōshōgū Shrine remains the main attraction, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in Nikko. Visit the Kegon Waterfall, explore the charming Japanese-style shops in town where you can also try some local specialties at Yubatei Madudaya, and immerse yourself in the world of the Edo period at Nikko Edomura.
To make the most out of your visit, consider staying at Nikko Akarinoyado Villa Revage, which is conveniently located within walking distance of the shrines. The villa’s relaxing baths provide the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring the historical and natural wonders of Nikko.
With its rich history, and stunning landscapes Nikko is truly a must-see destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty and cultural richness of Japan.
Shirakawa-go
As far as charming small towns in Japan go, you can’t go wrong with a visit to Shirakawa-go in the northern tip of the Gifu prefecture.
The main draw to Shirakawa-go are the famous farmhouses characterized by their steep thatched roofs that resemble two hands clasped in prayer. This construction style is known as gasshō-zukuri, and it makes the town look like something straight out of a fairy tale.
Most travellers visit Shirakawa-go on a day trip and to be fair, you can do quite a bit with a full day there. Some of the main attractions include enjoying the town’s postcard-perfect views from the Tenshukaku Observatory, touring the Gassho-zukuri Minkaen open-air museum which features 26 thatched-roof buildings, visiting the Myozenji Temple & Shirakawa Hachiman Shrine, crossing the Sho River via the Deai Bridge, and cooling down with matcha ice cream.
For a delicious meal, I would recommend Syokudo and Teishoku Restaurant. We ordered cold soba noodles with dried seaweed, and a mixed tempura platter featuring pumpkin, tofu, eggplant, green pepper, and carrot. The lunch set also came with a cup of green tea.
If you want to spend the night in Shirakawa-go, it is possible to book a farmhouse stay with a local family. You can do so through the Japanese Guest Houses website.
As far as transportation, the only way to reach Shirakawa-go is by car or bus. You can catch the Nohi Bus from the Takayama Nohi Bus Center, which is a 50-minute ride. Alternatively, there are bus links from Nagoya, Kanazawa, Toyama, Gokayama and Shin-Takaoka.
Takamatsu
Takamastu is located on Shikoku across the Seto Inland Sea from Osaka. There are two ways to get to Takamatsu, by plane from Tokyo or by train. The train leaves from Okayama Station which is between Osaka and Hiroshima. The journey from Okayama takes an hour on the fast train which travels over a bridge that connects Shikoku to Honshu. The trains on this route are covered by the JR rail pass.
The main reason to visit Takamatsu is for the amazing Japanese garden called Ritsurin Koen. It is 400 years old and was created in the Edo period. With various flowers and trees, the gardens are beautiful at any time of year but particularly around cherry blossom when it is a popular place to come for Hanami (to see the cherry blossom trees). Pick up a map of the park to help you find the viewpoint called Hiraiho which overlooks the Japanese bridge and the pond full of carp. There are also a couple of traditional tea houses in the park where you can do a matcha tea ceremony.
Another popular place to see cherry blossom is on Megijima Island which is a short ferry ride away. Several other islands can also be visited by ferry. The two most popular are Naoshima which is famous for its art and Shodoshima which is most visited in the summer for its beaches.
After a day of exploring make sure you try the local specialty called Sanuki Udon. Udon is thick wheat noodles. Most restaurants in town will serve this but the most atmospheric place to try it is at Udon Honjin Yamadaya restaurant. The train station is in the middle of the town and this is also the most convenient area to stay. From the JR Hotel Clement, which is right next to the train station, it is easy to get to all of the sites in Takamatsu.
Takayama
Takayama is a small town that’s located in the mountainous Hida region of Gifu. Getting there is simple: from Tokyo, take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen to Nagoya, then transfer to the JR Hida Limited Express to Takayama. You can use your JR Pass for both train rides and can expect the journey to take just over four hours.
One of the main attractions in Takayama is its beautiful old town, which is home to traditional Japanese architecture and preserved merchant houses from the Edo period. Strolling down the town’s streets feels like stepping back in time, and makes for a welcome break from hustle and bustles of the larger cities of Japan.
You can also visit the Hida Folk Village, which is also known as Hida no Sato. This open-air museum is just a 30-minute walk from the centre of Takayama, and showcases traditional farmhouses made from wood and moss, along with local crafts from the Hida region.
When it comes to food, Takayama is known for being the home of Hida beef, which is widely regarded as the best variety of the world-renowned Wagyu beef. It’s some of the highest-quality meat in the world. One of the best places in town to sample Hida beef is Ajikura Tengoku, a cozy restaurant that offers up platters of sumptuous meat that you can cook at your table.
For accommodation, look to stay at Guesthouse Takayama Hanzansha, a great-value spot that’s located in the centre of town. With welcoming staff, comfortable rooms, and peaceful surroundings, it’s one of the best places to stay in Takayama.
If you’re concerned about the cost of travel in Japan, Takayama is fortunately an affordable destination. While Hida beef can be expensive (around 3000 Yen per person), there are also plenty of more affordable dining options, such as ramen (800 Yen) and gyozas (500 Yen). Entrance fees for attractions like the Hida Folk Village are relatively low (700 Yen). And if you have a JR Pass, you can also save money on transportation costs.
Uji
Uji is a small town located in Kyoto prefecture, Japan.
Although not well-known with international tourists, Uji is a popular location with domestic tourists due to its delicious matcha and proximity to major cities in the area.
Uji is easily accessible by public transport, with the city being just 20 minutes from Kyoto station on the JR Nara line (JR Pass OK), or around one hour from Osaka Yodoyabashi station on the Keihan line.
Uji is recommended as a day trip from Kyoto, Osaka, or Nara, so visitors need not bother booking a hotel in the area.
Visitors will likely want to visit the most popular sights in Uji, one of which is the famous Byodoin Temple featured on the Japanese 10 yen coin. Entry tickets cost 600 yen and allow visitors to enter the temple grounds and museum. The grounds are tranquil and relaxing, even on days when there are many visitors. Don’t forget to take a photo while holding up a 10 yen coin for comparison!
Just outside Byodoin, visitors can find a street called Byodoin Omotesando Street. This street comes alive mid-morning and is lined with stores selling green tea and matcha products. In addition to numerous matcha-flavoured sweets and ice creams, visitors can even find green tea flavoured soba noodles!
One store that sells matcha-flavoured sweets and many different types of tea is Masuda Chaho. The matcha ice cream here is absolutely delicious and highly recommended.
Be sure to wander up and down the street before deciding on what to eat, as there are lots to choose from! But whatever you do, don’t forget to try some matcha products while visiting!
Yoshino
Yoshino is a picturesque town located in Nara Prefecture, Japan, and is famous for its stunning cherry blossom trees and mountain views. It is in fact considered one of the best hanami viewing destinations in the whole of Japan.
To get to Yoshino from Kyoto, take the Kintetsu Limited Express from Kyoto Station to Yoshino Station. The journey takes about 2 hours and costs around 1,500 yen. You cannot use your JR Pass on the Kintetsu Limited Express.
Alternatively, take the JR Yamatoji Line from Kyoto Station to Oji Station (covered by the JR Pass) and transfer to the Kintetsu Yoshino Line for Yoshino Station (not covered by the JR Pass). This route takes about 2.5 hours.
During cherry blossom season, there are many things to do in Yoshino. One popular activity is to take a walk along the picturesque mountain trails and admire the beautiful cherry blossoms. Make sure to try street food from the stalls located along the trails, and don’t miss a visit to the ancient Yoshino Mikumari Shrine. If you have a few days to spend in Yoshino, I wholeheartedly recommend exploring the Yoshino-Kumano National Park.
For a unique food experience, try the local specialty dish, “Kuzu-mochi” a type of wagashi (Japanese sweet) that resembles a mochi cake but is made with kuzu starch instead of glutinous rice flour. In terms of accommodation, “Houtouji Temple” is a highly recommended place to stay. This traditional Japanese-style house offers tatami rooms and spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy the cherry blossom season.
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I think I couldn’t decide which of these villages I want to visit when I’m in Japan. All of them look absolutely gorgeous!
Biei looks amazing, almost looks unreal. I’d love to vagi there.