Beyond Mount Fuji
6 Must-See Extensions to Extend Your Japan Trip
Reading time: 2 min
Beyond Mount Fuji
6 Must-See Extensions to Extend Your Japan Trip
Reading time: 2 min
Beyond Mount Fuji
6 Must-See Extensions to Extend Your Japan Trip
Reading time: 2 min
Beyond Mount Fuji: 6 Must-See Extensions to Extend Your Japan Trip
Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka make up the classic core of a first trip to Japan. But by looking a little further, you'll uncover surprising destinations that can make your trip more unique. Here are six original additions that will make your journey truly unforgettable.
Naoshima
An Art Sanctuary in the Seto Inland Sea
Best visited after Kyoto, via Okayama and Uno
After the timeless beauty of Kyoto, head south to the coastal city of Okayama. From there, take a ferry to Naoshima, an island filled with modern art, minimalist architecture, and peaceful beaches. Stroll among the works of Yayoi Kusama and Tadao Ando in a setting where simplicity and aesthetics reign supreme.
Japanese Alps
Mountain Retreats, Onsen, and Ancient Villages
Between Tokyo and Kyoto, via Nagano or Takayama
Between Tokyo and Kyoto lies a completely different landscape: snow-capped peaks, mountain passes, and Edo-period villages like Tsumago and Takayama. You can hike along the Nakasendo trail, stay in traditional ryokans, and soak in open-air onsen with mountain views. Authentic, adventurous, and absolutely breathtaking.
Mount Aso
Camp Beside a Smoking Giant
From Osaka, take a train or rent a car to reach Kyushu.
There you'll find Mount Aso, an active volcano with a vast caldera. Spend the night in cabins or go glamping near the crater, walk across lava fields, and at night, stargaze in complete silence.
Ogasawara Islands: A Slice of the Tropics, Technically Tokyo
After Tokyo, ferry from Takeshiba Port
From Tokyo’s skyline to a remote, car-free tropical island in the middle of the ocean? After a 24-hour ferry ride, you’ll arrive at the Ogasawara Islands, an isolated paradise filled with dolphins, snorkeling spots, and rare flora. No tourist crowds, just pure nature.
Sapporo
Snow, Street Food, and Nordic Vibes
From Tokyo or Osaka, by plane or train to Hokkaido
Fly from Tokyo or Osaka northward to discover a completely different side of Japan. In Sapporo, you’ll find powdery snow, miso ramen, izakayas, and a laid-back atmosphere. Combine skiing with a visit to the famous Snow Festival, or immerse yourself in the onsen culture at Noboribetsu.
The Nakasendo Trail
Following the Footsteps of the Samurai
Between Tokyo and Kyoto, via Nagoya or the Kiso Valley
Take a few days to walk the ancient route connecting Edo to Kyoto. Spend the night in wooden inns, savor local specialties, and hike through pine forests lining charming post towns where time seems to have stood still. This “slow travel” experience adds an intimate and historical dimension to your journey in Japan.
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