Japan is a country full of surprises.
Most tourists flock to famous spots like Tokyo and Kyoto, but there’s a whole world of hidden treasures waiting to be found.
These lesser-known places offer a chance to see a different side of Japan, away from the crowds.
You can discover Japan’s true beauty and culture by exploring off-the-beaten paths.
Get ready to uncover some of Japan’s best-kept secrets and make your trip truly special.
Table of Contents
- 1) Sakura Jima
- 2) Shirakawa-go Village
- 3) Aogashima Island
- 4) Iya Valley
- 5) Tottori Sand Dunes
- 6) Ouchi-juku Post Town
- 7) Ishigaki Island
- 8) Takeda Castle Ruins
- 9) Kamakura’s Bamboo Grove
- 10) Shimanami Kaido
- 11) Higashi Chaya District
- 12) Hitachi Seaside Park
- 13) Nachikatsuura Town
- 14) Ine Fishing village
- 15) Sado Island
- 16) Gujo Hachiman
- 17) Miyako Jima
1) Sakura Jima
Sakurajima is a must-see hidden gem in Japan.
This active volcano sits in Kagoshima Bay, offering stunning views and exciting experiences.
You can take a ferry to the island and explore its rugged landscape.
Watch for small eruptions that happen almost daily.
Don’t worry.
They’re usually just puffs of smoke!
Try the local speciality – “ash-baked” sweet potatoes.
These tasty treats are cooked using the volcano’s heat.
You can also visit the Sakurajima Visitor Center to learn more about the volcano’s history.
For a unique photo op, head to the Yunohira Observation Point.
You’ll get amazing views of the volcano and the surrounding bay.
2) Shirakawa-go Village
Tucked away in Gifu Prefecture, Shirakawa-go is a charming village that feels like a step back in time.
You’ll be amazed by the unique Gassho-style houses with their steep thatched roofs.
These traditional homes were built to withstand heavy snowfall and offer a glimpse into rural Japanese life.
Don’t miss the chance to visit the Shiroyama Viewpoint.
From here, you can take in breathtaking views of the entire village, especially beautiful at sunset.
Shirakawa-go is lovely year-round.
3) Aogashima Island
Aogashima Island is a hidden paradise waiting for you to explore.
This volcanic island sits 358 kilometres south of Tokyo in the Pacific Ocean.
You’ll be amazed by the island’s unique double caldera formation.
It’s like a volcano within a volcano!
To get there, first travel to Hachijō-jima by plane or boat from Tokyo.
Then, take a short flight or boat ride to Aogashima.
Once you arrive, soak in the natural hot springs and admire the unspoiled scenery.
You can hike, stargaze, or visit the small traditional villages.
Aogashima offers a peaceful escape from busy city life.
With fewer than 200 residents, you’ll feel like you’ve discovered your own private island paradise.
4) Iya Valley
Tucked away in Tokushima Prefecture, Iya Valley is a hidden gem in Japan.
This remote mountain valley offers stunning natural beauty and unique experiences.
You can cross traditional vine bridges for a thrilling adventure.
These bridges, like the Iya Kazurabashi, give you a taste of old Japan.
The valley is great for hiking and enjoying hot springs.
Try the Iya Onsen, which sits at the bottom of a steep cliff.
You’ll ride a cable car down to reach it.
Spring and fall are the best times to visit.
The weather is nice, and the scenery is beautiful.
Remember to pack good walking shoes and a swimsuit for the hot springs.
5) Tottori Sand Dunes
You might not expect to find sand dunes in Japan, but Tottori has a surprise for you.
The Tottori Sand Dunes stretch for 16 kilometres along the coast, creating a unique desert-like landscape.
As you explore these vast dunes, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to another world.
The sand peaks reach up to 50 meters high, offering amazing views of the Sea of Japan.
For some fun, try sandboarding down the dunes or take a camel ride.
Don’t miss the beautiful sunset over this sandy wonderland.
The dunes change with the seasons. In winter, you might even see them covered in snow.
6) Ouchi-juku Post Town
Ouchi-juku is a charming old town in Fukushima Prefecture that will take you back in time.
You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a fairy tale as you walk among the traditional thatched-roof houses.
This former posttown along the Aizu-Nishi Kaido trade route is a must-see for history buffs.
You can explore over 30 well-preserved buildings surrounded by hills and farm fields.
For a truly magical experience, visit Ouchi-juku in winter.
The town gets covered in snow, creating a picture-perfect scene.
You can also join the annual Ouchi-juku Snow Festival for some extra fun.
Don’t forget to try the local dishes while you’re there.
7) Ishigaki Island
Ishigaki Island is a tropical paradise in Japan’s Okinawa Prefecture.
You’ll find stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkelling and diving.
Visit Kabira Bay, one of Japan’s most beautiful spots.
Its emerald waters and white sand beaches will take your breath away.
For nature lovers, explore the island’s limestone caves.
These fascinating formations have been developing for over 200,000 years.
Ishigaki is also great for hiking.
You can enjoy scenic trails and breathtaking views of the surrounding islands.
Don’t miss trying the local cuisine.
Fresh seafood and Okinawan specialities are a must-try during your visit.
8) Takeda Castle Ruins
Takeda Castle Ruins sits atop a mountain in Hyogo Prefecture.
It’s often called “Japan’s Machu Picchu” or “Castle in the Sky” because of its stunning location.
You can reach the ruins by taking a train to Takeda Station and then hiking up or catching a taxi.
The climb takes about 30 minutes on foot.
For a magical experience, visit early in the morning during autumn or early winter.
You might see the castle surrounded by a sea of fog.
The ruins offer amazing views of the surrounding area.
It’s a great spot for history fans and photographers alike.
9) Kamakura’s Bamboo Grove
You’ll find a hidden gem at Hokokuji Temple in Kamakura.
This place is known as the Bamboo Temple for good reason.
When you step inside, you’re surrounded by the tall green stalks above you.
They create a peaceful atmosphere.
This bamboo grove may be smaller than some others in Japan, but it’s just as magical.
It’s a great place to escape the crowds and enjoy a quiet moment in nature.
10) Shimanami Kaido
The Shimanami Kaido is a scenic cycling route that connects Japan’s main island to Shikoku.
You’ll ride across six small islands and seven bridges, spanning about 70 kilometres.
This hidden gem offers breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea.
You can rent bikes at various points along the route, making it easy to start your adventure.
The route is well-marked and suitable for cyclists of all skill levels.
You can complete the Shimanami Kaido in one day or take your time over a few days.
Along the way, you’ll find plenty of spots to rest, eat local food, and enjoy the island culture.
11) Higashi Chaya District
Step back in time as you wander the charming streets of Higashi Chaya District in Kanazawa.
This well-preserved area transports you to Japan’s Edo period with its traditional wooden buildings and cobblestone paths.
Peek inside a historic teahouse to see where geisha once entertained guests.
You can even enjoy a cup of matcha tea and sweet treats in one of these atmospheric settings.
Don’t miss the chance to admire local crafts like Kutani porcelain and gold leaf art.
12) Hitachi Seaside Park
You’ll find a breathtaking floral paradise at Hitachi Seaside Park in Ibaraki Prefecture.
This hidden gem is about 120 kilometres northeast of Tokyo.
The park is famous for its stunning seasonal flower displays.
In spring, you can see 5.3 million baby blue-eyes (nemophila) covering the hills like a sea of blue.
Come autumn, the landscape transforms with 32,000 red kochia bushes.
These round shrubs turn the fields into a crimson wonderland.
The park is open year-round, except for Mondays and a few holidays.
It’s best to check the opening hours before you visit, as they change with the seasons.
You can easily spend a day exploring the park’s vast grounds.
Don’t forget your camera – you’ll want to capture the incredible views!
13) Nachikatsuura Town
Nachikatsuura is on Japan’s Kii Peninsula.
This charming coastal town is home to one of the country’s most stunning natural wonders, Nachi Falls.
You’ll be amazed by the 133-meter-tall waterfall cascading down green cliffs.
The sight is truly breathtaking, especially when mist surrounds the falls.
For the best views, head to the viewing platform or observatory deck.
You can also explore the nearby Kumano Nachi Taisha shrine, which adds a spiritual touch to your visit.
Nachikatsuura’s rugged coastline offers beautiful scenery and peaceful walks.
You’ll find plenty of photo opportunities as you wander along the shore.
14) Ine Fishing village
Tucked away on the coast of Kyoto Prefecture, Ine Fishing Village is a hidden gem waiting for you to discover.
This small town of about 1,900 people sits between mountains and Ine Bay, creating a stunning backdrop.
The village is famous for its unique “funaya” boathouses.
These wooden structures line the shore, with their first floors serving as boat garages and the upper floors as living spaces.
You can explore Ine by taking a boat tour around the bay.
It’s a great way to see the funaya up close and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Ine’s charm lies in its peaceful atmosphere and traditional way of life.
You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time as you wander the narrow streets and watch fishermen at work.
15) Sado Island
Sado Island is a hidden gem off the coast of Niigata Prefecture.
You’ll find a unique mix of nature, history, and culture on this butterfly-shaped island.
Take a scenic coastal drive to see stunning views of the Sea of Japan.
Stop at Benkei Rock and Onogame Cape for breathtaking photo ops.
Visit the island’s gold mines, which once produced a third of the world’s gold.
You can tour these historic sites and learn about their importance.
Try riding in a traditional tub boat, a quirky local fishing vessel.
It’s a fun way to experience Sado’s maritime heritage.
16) Gujo Hachiman
Gujo Hachiman is a charming town in Gifu Prefecture that you’ll love exploring.
It’s often overlooked by tourists, making it a true hidden gem.
You’ll be amazed by Japan’s oldest wooden reconstructed castle from the 16th century.
It sits high above the town, offering great views.
The town’s clean water is a sight to behold.
You’ll see Japanese carp swimming in the street canals!
As you walk around, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
The streets are lined with traditional buildings from the Edo period.
Gujo Hachiman is also famous for its food replicas.
You can even try making your own at a local workshop.
17) Miyako Jima
Miyako Jima is a stunning island in Japan’s Okinawa prefecture.
You’ll find crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches here.
The island boasts beautiful coral reefs that are perfect for snorkelling and diving.
You can explore underwater caves and colourful fish.
Maehama Beach is known for its white sand and turquoise water.
It’s a great spot for swimming and sunbathing.
