Japan is more than just Tokyo and Kansai. It offers a lot of destinations that come with picturesque sceneries, amazing attractions, and just a great experience overall. So, if you want something different when you visit the Land of the Rising Sun, here are some underrated destinations that you can explore in Japan.
4. Beppu
Known as a place dominated by hot spring, Beppu is an amazing destination in Kyushu. In this place, you can check out its seven hells or hot springs. Amazingly, every hot spring offers its own character.
For instance, Oniishibozu Jigoku is named for its plopping pools of mud, which some say look like the shaven heads of monks. Meanwhile, there is a place called Kamado Jigoku, or “cooking pot hell”, taste hard-boiled eggs cooked in the sulfurous waters. Most distinctive of all, Chinoike Jigoku takes on a vivid red hue giving it the nickname of “blood pond hell”. Make the most of the area’s geothermal energy by taking a sand bath and sweating out your body’s impurities while covered in a thick layer of black volcanic sand.
3. Nara
Want to meet a Sika deer in real life? Then, head on to Nara. This place is home to thousands of Sika deer and they are not shy when it comes to interacting with people. You can buy a piece of biscuit and feed them, and they will thank you by bowing.
An amazing site to visit in Nara is the Todaiji temple or the Great Eastern Temple. This was built in 752 and is known as the world’s largest wooden building, even if it is only 2/3 of its original size.
2. Shirakawa-go
Shirakawa-go in Gifu is home to traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses. It was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and these farmhouses are over 250 years old. The oldest village in Shirakawa-go, which is also its main attraction is Ogimachi. If you want a full-on immersion, you can sleep in one of the traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses overnight.
1. Hakone
A couple of hours away from the bustling Tokyo, Hakone will give you a breath of fresh air. Even if it is just a few hours away from the big city, Hakone has a different vibe. It is more laid-back and chill. Actually, most of the businesses here close up shop early so if you plan to go on a day trip then make sure to start early. Most services and stores close at 5 PM.
In Hakone, you can ride a “pirate” ship around Lake Ashi and go up on a cable car ride to Owakudani where you can see active sulfur vents. If you are lucky and go on a clear day, you can see Mt. Fuji from there.
If you want to spend more time then go for an overnight stay. Hakone has lots of hot springs, which makes it an amazing place to experience the traditional way of life in Japan, which is leagues different from Tokyo.
Any destination that we should add? Let us know in the comments!
