Tour plans for top 10 hidden gems to visit in Japan

Japan is a country rich in culture, history and beauty. While it is known for popular tourist destinations like Tokyo, Kyoto and Hiroshima, it is also home to some hidden gems that are worth exploring. In this blog post, we’ll be discussing the top 10 hidden gems to visit in Japan.

【1】Tsumago

A well-preserved post town from the Edo period, Tsumago is a must-visit for those interested in Japanese history and architecture.

One-day tour plan suggestion for visiting Tsumago:

1. Arrival at Magome-Tsumago Trailhead: Take a train from Nagoya to Nakatsugawa station and then take a local bus to the Magome-Tsumago trailhead.
2. Hike from Magome to Tsumago: The trail between Magome and Tsumago is a beautiful hike that takes about 1-2 hours. Along the way, you will pass by scenic views and traditional homes.
3. Explore Tsumago: Upon arrival in Tsumago, take some time to explore the town and admire its well-preserved Edo-era architecture. You can also visit the local museum to learn more about the history of the town.
4. Lunch in Tsumago: There are several traditional restaurants in Tsumago that offer a variety of local specialties.
5. Return to Magome: After lunch, return to Magome via the same trail.
6. Explore Magome: After arriving in Magome, take some time to explore the town and visit its famous viewpoint for panoramic views of the surrounding area.
7. Return to Nagoya: Take a local bus back to Nakatsugawa station and then take a train back to Nagoya.

【2】Ogasawara Islands

A remote chain of islands located 1000 km south of Tokyo, Ogasawara offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, lush greenery and a unique ecosystem.

Tour plan suggestion for visiting the Ogasawara Islands:

1. Arrival in Tokyo: Take a flight from Tokyo to Chichijima, the largest of the Ogasawara Islands.
2. Check-in at Accommodation: Upon arrival, check-in at your chosen accommodation on the island.
3. Hiking and Wildlife Watching: The Ogasawara Islands offer a unique ecosystem and are home to a variety of wildlife. Spend the day exploring the island, going on a hiking trail, and observing the local wildlife.
4. Visit the Visitor Center: The visitor center on Chichijima offers information on the history, culture, and wildlife of the islands.
5. Snorkeling and Diving: The Ogasawara Islands are also known for their beautiful coral reefs and rich marine life. Spend the day snorkeling or diving to see the colorful underwater world.
6. Visit Hahajima Island: Take a ferry to Hahajima, the second-largest island in the chain. Hahajima offers a chance to explore a less touristy island and see a different side of the Ogasawara Islands.
7. Return to Tokyo: Take a flight back to Tokyo from Chichijima.

【3】Shirakawa-go

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Shirakawa-go is famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, which are made from locally-sourced materials.

Suggested tour plan for visiting Shirakawa-go:

1. Arrival in Takayama: Take a train from Nagoya or Tokyo to Takayama.
2. Check-in at Accommodation: Upon arrival in Takayama, check-in at your chosen accommodation.
3. Visit the Morning Markets: Start the day by visiting the morning markets in Takayama, where you can find a variety of local products, including fresh produce and souvenirs.
4. Bus Tour to Shirakawa-go: Take a bus tour from Takayama to Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its traditional gassho-style farmhouses.
5. Explore the Shirakawa-go Village: Upon arrival, spend the day exploring the traditional village and admiring its unique architecture. You can also visit the local museum to learn more about the history and culture of the area.
6. Lunch in Shirakawa-go: There are several restaurants in the village that serve traditional local dishes.
7. Return to Takayama: Take a bus back to Takayama in the afternoon.
8. Visit the Old Town: In the evening, spend some time exploring the historic old town of Takayama, including its well-preserved traditional buildings and streets.

【4】Tottori Sand Dunes

A rare sight in Japan, Tottori Sand Dunes offer visitors a chance to explore the beautiful sand dunes and take in the scenic views of the surrounding mountains.

Suggested tour plan for visiting the Tottori Sand Dunes:

1. Arrival in Tottori: Take a train from Osaka or Hiroshima to Tottori.
2. Check-in at Accommodation: Upon arrival, check-in at your chosen accommodation in Tottori.
3. Visit Tottori Sand Dunes: Start the day by visiting the Tottori Sand Dunes, one of the largest sand dunes in Japan. You can go sandboarding, take a camel ride, or simply admire the views of the dunes and the Sea of Japan.
4. Lunch in Tottori: There are several restaurants in Tottori that serve local specialties, including seafood dishes.
5. Explore Tottori City: In the afternoon, take some time to explore Tottori City, including its historic castle ruins and Tottori Sand Museum.
6. Visit the Tottori Sakyu Cultural Village: In the evening, visit the Tottori Sakyu Cultural Village, a park dedicated to preserving the traditional culture and lifestyles of the area.
7. Return to Accommodation: After your day of exploration, return to your accommodation for the night.

【5】Matsumoto

A charming castle town located in Nagano prefecture, Matsumoto is home to the famous Matsumoto Castle, which is known for its black exterior and beautiful gardens.

Suggested tour plan for visiting Matsumoto:

1. Arrival in Matsumoto: Take a train from Tokyo to Matsumoto.
2. Check-in at Accommodation: Upon arrival, check-in at your chosen accommodation in Matsumoto.
3. Visit Matsumoto Castle: Start the day by visiting Matsumoto Castle, one of the most well-preserved castles in Japan and a designated National Treasure.
4. Lunch in Matsumoto: There are several restaurants in Matsumoto that serve local specialties, including soba noodles.
5. Visit the Nakamachi Street: In the afternoon, visit the historic Nakamachi Street, known for its well-preserved traditional buildings and streets.
6. Explore the Matsumoto City Museum of Art: In the evening, visit the Matsumoto City Museum of Art, which features a collection of modern and contemporary art.
7. Return to Accommodation: After your day of exploration, return to your accommodation for the night.

【6】Shiretoko National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Shiretoko National Park is a prime destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. It offers opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives.

Suggested tour plan for visiting Shiretoko National Park:

1. Arrival in Utoro: Take a train from Sapporo to Utoro, the nearest town to Shiretoko National Park.
2. Check-in at Accommodation: Upon arrival, check-in at your chosen accommodation in Utoro.
3. Explore the Shiretoko Peninsula Trail: Start the day by exploring the Shiretoko Peninsula Trail, a scenic hiking trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
4. Lunch in Utoro: There are several restaurants in Utoro that serve local specialties, including seafood dishes.
5. Visit the Shiretoko Nature Center: In the afternoon, visit the Shiretoko Nature Center to learn more about the unique flora and fauna of the region.
6. Take a Boat Tour: In the evening, take a boat tour to see the park from a different perspective and observe the wildlife, including sea eagles, seals, and dolphins.
7. Return to Accommodation: After your day of exploration, return to your accommodation for the night.

【7】Yakushima

An island located off the coast of Kyushu, Yakushima is home to ancient forests, beautiful waterfalls and is a great place for trekking and exploring the wilderness.

Suggested tour plan for visiting Yakushima:

1. Arrival in Kagoshima: Take a flight or train from Tokyo or Osaka to Kagoshima, the nearest city to Yakushima.
2. Check-in at Accommodation: Upon arrival, check-in at your chosen accommodation in Kagoshima.
3. Take a Ferry to Yakushima: Start the day by taking a ferry from Kagoshima to Yakushima, a subtropical island famous for its stunning scenery and ancient cedar forests.
4. Hike the Yakusugi Land Trail: Upon arrival, hike the Yakusugi Land Trail, a scenic trail that offers views of the ancient cedar forests and the surrounding landscapes.
5. Lunch in Yakushima: There are several restaurants on Yakushima that serve local specialties, including seafood dishes.
6. Visit the Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine: In the afternoon, visit the Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine, a scenic valley that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
7. Return to Accommodation: After your day of exploration, return to your accommodation for the night.

【8】Kanazawa

A city located on the Sea of Japan, Kanazawa is known for its beautiful gardens, traditional architecture and rich cultural heritage.

suggested tour plan for visiting Kanazawa:

1. Arrival in Kanazawa: Take a train from Tokyo or Osaka to Kanazawa, a city known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional arts.
2. Check-in at Accommodation: Upon arrival, check-in at your chosen accommodation in Kanazawa.
3. Visit the Kenroku-en Garden: Start the day by visiting the Kenroku-en Garden, one of the most beautiful and well-known traditional gardens in Japan.
4. Lunch in Kanazawa: There are several restaurants in Kanazawa that serve local specialties, including seafood dishes and sweets made from local ingredients.
5. Visit the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art: In the afternoon, visit the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, which features a collection of modern and contemporary art.
6. Explore the Higashiyama District: In the evening, explore the Higashiyama District, a historic neighborhood known for its well-preserved traditional buildings and streets.
7. Return to Accommodation: After your day of exploration, return to your accommodation for the night.

【9】Amanohashidate

A sandbar located in Kyoto prefecture, Amanohashidate is known for its stunning natural beauty and is a popular spot for viewing the sunset.

Suggested tour plan for visiting Amanohashidate:

1. Arrival in Amanohashidate: Take a train from Kyoto or Osaka to Amanohashidate, a scenic coastal town known for its beautiful sandbar.
2. Check-in at Accommodation: Upon arrival, check-in at your chosen accommodation in Amanohashidate.
3. Visit Amanohashidate View Land: Start the day by visiting Amanohashidate View Land, an observation deck that offers stunning views of the Amanohashidate sandbar.
4. Hike the Amanohashidate Trail: In the morning, hike the Amanohashidate Trail, a scenic trail that offers views of the surrounding countryside.
5. Lunch in Amanohashidate: There are several restaurants in Amanohashidate that serve local specialties, including seafood dishes.
6. Take a Boat Tour: In the afternoon, take a boat tour to see the sandbar from a different perspective and observe the wildlife, including seabirds and seals.
7. Return to Accommodation: After your day of exploration, return to your accommodation for the night.

【10】Miyajima

A small island located near Hiroshima, Miyajima is known for its beautiful shrines, scenic views and friendly deer population.

Suggested tour plan for visiting Miyajima:

1. Arrival in Miyajima: Take a ferry from Hiroshima to Miyajima, a small island known for its beautiful shrines and temples.
2. Check-in at Accommodation: Upon arrival, check-in at your chosen accommodation in Miyajima.
3. Visit the Itsukushima Shrine: Start the day by visiting the Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its iconic floating torii gate.
4. Walk along the Omotesando Street: In the morning, walk along the Omotesando Street, a scenic street lined with shops and restaurants selling local specialties.
5. Lunch in Miyajima: There are several restaurants in Miyajima that serve local specialties, including seafood dishes and sweets made from local ingredients.
6. Hike Mount Misen: In the afternoon, hike Mount Misen, the highest mountain on Miyajima, for stunning views of the island and surrounding area.
7. Return to Accommodation: After your day of exploration, return to your accommodation for the night.

Summary

Japan is a country full of hidden gems that are waiting to be explored. These top 10 destinations offer a chance to escape the crowds and experience the beauty and rich culture of Japan.