Planning your trip to Japan can be overwhelming with so many cities and hidden gems to choose from. Explore the iconic to the off beaten places of Japan that offer diverse experiences and make for a memorable trip. If it's your first time to Japan, you might want to read our guide: Best Things To Do in Japan.
The Golden Route: Tokyo To Kyoto
The golden route of Japan, the iconic cities of Tokyo and Kyoto, make for a perfect starting base to explore Japan especially for first timers uncovering the most iconic cities of the country. For an ultimate guide, read our Golden Route: Tokyo to Kyoto. Experience the best of both Japan’s contrasting cultures from Tokyo’s bustling and ultramodern city vibe to a slower paced and tranquil escape to the countryside of Kyoto. Explore Tokyo’s ultra-hip fashion district in Harajuku, step back in time at the shanty-style bars of Golden Gai in Shinjuku, the infamous Shibuya crossing and its energetic surroundings filled with mega stores and endless restaurants. Tokyo also makes a great basis for day trips including a hiking journey to the highest mountain in Japan, Mount Fuji.
Kyoto is one of Japan’s ancient capitals, it is the quintessential Japanese city with breathtaking shrines, charming neighbourhoods and lush bamboo forests. It’s bucket list highlights include the iconic vivid red Torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine; the geisha district of Gion filled with picturesque canals, enchanting streets and historic houses; the stunning Kiyomizu-dera Temple one of the best spots to admire Kyoto’s autumn leaves and cherry blossoms; and the serene Arashiyama bamboo groves.
Read more: Best Luxury Accommodation in Tokyo, Best Luxury Accommodation in Kyoto
The Offbeaten: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Routes
Experience over 1000 years of history on the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Routes as you hike to uncover the Yoshino-Kumano National Park. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, follow the footsteps of pilgrims who have hiked these spiritual trails for thousands of years. Marvel at its highlights including the Kumano Nachi Taisha Grand Shrine, the towering Nachi Waterfall and enchanted forests. Read more on our guide to Hiking the Kumano Kodo Trail from what to expect hiking this trail to the different Kumano Kodo hiking routes. With its prime location set in Ago Bay, a stay at the 5 star ryokan-inspired resort, Amanemu, makes a perfect haven and gateway to exploring the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes.
The Historical: Nakasendo Trail
Another unique walking experience is hiking the anceint Nakasendo Trail. Step back in time as you walk along village paths on this forested trail stretching between Tokyo city and Kyoto. Stretching 553km, it takes you beyond than just a walk but into Japanese traditional culture, architecture, shops and ambiance. Walking the Nakasendo Trail from village to village is a great way to sample Japan's rural scenery. The entire trail generally takes 4-5 days, however, there are many different options from 1 day to multi-day that encompass the best parts of the Nakasendo Trail. See Kiso Valley, uncover 67 post-towns, the most preserved being Magome, Tsumago, Kiso Fukushima and Narai. Travel on the ancient paved paths known as ishidatami, pass hidden waterfalls, walk through stunning cedar and cypress forests and numerous wayside shrines. Along the trail, stay in traditional ryokans and rejuvenate in serene onsens for the ultimate Japanese walking experience. If you are planning to walk the Nakasendo Trail, find out more on our guide to Hiking the Nakasendo Trail.
The Tropical: Kyushu
Japan’s third largest island is iconic for active volcanoes, peaceful beaches and natural hot springs such as those at Beppu. Known as the ‘land of fire’, epic coastlines, volcanoes, waterfalls and world-class hot springs make Kyushu one of the best regions for exploration and hiking in Japan. Kyushu plays host to some of the most incredible walking trails and you can explore more of Kyushu Walking Adventures. The island goes beyond and is full of life, culture and history of WWII. Read more: Unwind In Kyushu: Volcanoes, History, Islands, And World-Class Hot Springs
The Shrine Island: Miyajima
Miyajima is a small gem with plenty to see. Home to the famed Itsukushima-jinja Shrine and the floating gate, is the biggest draw card on the island and listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites. A highlight is walking out to its large torii gate at low tide. Apart from Itsukushima-jinja there are plenty other shrines and temples that make an ideal temple hopping adventure. Visit Daishoin Temple, the oldest temple on Miyajima to the largest structure on the island at Senjokaku. For spectacular views over the island and the bay, venture on a hike to Mount Misen or take the ropeway up. For a different perspective, admire Itsukushima-jinja Shrine from a sea kayak as you circle the island with Mount Misen looming over creating a memorable kayak adventure.
Underwater Paradise: Okinawa
Discover a unique island of white sand beaches, mangrove jungles and the age of Ryukyu Kings. Dive deep into Okinawa on a cave diving and snorkeling adventure. Okinawa’s Blue Cave is truly an underwater paradise teeming with tropical fish and spectacular coral formations. Hike the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Shuri Castle and the of Tamagusuku area of the Ryukya Kings. Immerse into the great outdoors of Japan as you laze on pristine beaches and coastlines and delve deep into the nature of Yanbaru and Iriomote Island, both World Heritage Sites.
