Exploring Beyond Tokyo: 7 Hidden Gems to Discover in Japan

During my initial journey to Japan eight years ago, I was captivated by the vibrant pulse of Tokyo. The capital embodies the essence of the country, presenting an exhilarating mix of technological advancement, pop culture phenomena, time-honored culinary practices, and diverse landscapes that transform with each of the four seasons. In the spring of 2023, I eagerly returned to Japan, ready to revisit the cherished locations from my previous visit while also exploring new regions of the country.

While in Tokyo, I checked into my favorite hotel: Prince Gallery Kioicho. The impressive floor-to-ceiling lobby offered a breathtaking view of the night sky, adorned with luminous buildings, setting the tone for the vibrant energy found 36 floors below. A few days later, I embarked on a two-hour train journey north to Nikko for the first time, exploring its shrine-lined streets and scenic hiking trails, before heading to the southernmost tip of Japan to seek out Oita’s premier onsen. If you're eager to venture beyond the well-trodden tourist spots and discover alternative destinations in Japan outside of Tokyo, here are seven suggestions for your next adventure.

Nikko

Nikko serves as a mountainside sanctuary where nature lovers can fully engage with breathtaking landscapes, including waterfalls, serene lakes, fields of azaleas blossoming in spring, and forests filled with vibrant maple and linden trees that burst into fiery oranges and reds during autumn. It’s an exceptional destination for hiking, skiing, boating, or simply finding tranquility in nature throughout the year. Additionally, Nikko boasts some of Japan’s most splendid shrines and temples, many designated as UNESCO World Heritage sites. Notable highlights include the detailed carvings of sleeping cats and elephants at Toshogu Shrine and the radiant lanterns of Futarasan-jinja Shrine.

Accommodation Options

Guests at the Ritz Carlton, Nikko can engage in morning meditation sessions guided by monks, enjoy a sunset speedboat ride on nearby Lake Chuzenji, and partake in a stargazing experience showcasing views of the Milky Way and lunar craters. The hotel features 94 rooms and suites that elegantly embody Japanese minimalism and luxury. The renowned ramen restaurant Afuri has collaborated with the hotel bar to create a dinner and cocktail experience set against a backdrop of over 1,000 Japanese whiskeys. Consider staying in the Lake Chuzenji View Suite, which boasts over 1,000 square feet of warm wood tones and offers the peacefulness of a private balcony and soaking tub overlooking the lake. After a day of adventures, the on-site onsen provides a serene retreat, allowing guests to soak amidst the surrounding forested mountains.

Kobe

While Kobe is globally renowned for its exquisite steak, this vibrant city also serves as an ideal weekend escape, perfect for discovering its diverse culinary scene and sake breweries. Just a 20-minute train ride from Osaka, Kobe features bustling neighborhoods that are easily explored on foot or via a sightseeing bus that circles popular attractions like Merikan Park and the waterfront shopping area of Harborland.

As you work up an appetite, the Sannomiya district offers various dining options, including traditional Japanese izakayas (pubs) like Kaisentonya Sannomiya Seriichi, known for its fresh seafood, such as sea urchin and oysters. For a delicious yet budget-friendly wagyu kobe experience, check out Steakland Kobe near Sannomiya Station. The Nada district is renowned for its sake production, home to one of the oldest and most famous breweries, Hakutsuru. Join a guided tour, explore the on-site museum, and treat yourself to the tasting room's popular sake jelly dessert.

Accommodation Options

After a full day of indulging in flavors, unwind at La Suite Kobe—a waterfront hotel situated in the heart of the city, featuring two restaurants, a cocktail lounge, and outdoor swimming pools.

Beppu

This paradise, known for its bubbling natural geothermal waters, places wellness at the forefront. Located on Japan's southernmost island, Kyushu, Beppu boasts the largest onsen region in the country. With over 3,000 hot spring vents, most formed by volcanic activity, many springs are only for viewing due to their high temperatures, including the renowned '7 Hells of Beppu' in the Kannawa district. Some of these date back roughly 1,200 years, featuring the steamy, icy blue waters of Umi Jigoku.

Accommodation Options

For an overnight retreat that includes a relaxing soak, ANA InterContinental Beppu Resort & Spa offers cliffside onsens with stunning views of the city and the distant bay. Especially during sunset, as steam rises and the sky is painted with vibrant shades of orange and fuchsia, this spot provides a tranquil experience that makes the journey to Beppu worthwhile.

Fukuoka

Nestled on the northern coast of Kyushu, Fukuoka pulses with an exciting energy reminiscent of Tokyo, yet it often goes unnoticed by international visitors. Ramen enthusiasts, get ready to indulge! Fukuoka is the birthplace of tonkotsu ramen, and you’ll find plenty of spots to enjoy a bowl. Its unique Hakata style features ultra-thin noodles served in a rich, creamy pork bone broth. While Hakata Issou is a well-known destination for this delicious soup, you can satisfy your cravings at the always-bustling food stalls (known as yatai) scattered throughout the city. Beyond ramen, Fukuoka boasts a vibrant nightlife and shopping scene, highlighted by Canal City, an entertainment hub with over 250 shops, two hotels, and even a ramen stadium featuring eight noodle-themed restaurants. For a change of pace from the urban atmosphere, head to Momochi Seaside Park, which offers three man-made beaches perfect for swimming.

Accommodation Recommendations

After a busy day, unwind at Miyako Hotel Hakata, a modern 208-room sanctuary featuring a poolside bar and a stunning glass facade adorned with greenery and cascading waterfalls.

Yokohama

Yokohama, a beautiful coastal city, is just an hour away from Tokyo by train, making it a convenient day trip. At Sankeien Gardens, which spans 175,000 square meters, visitors can immerse themselves in the stunning beauty of lotus flowers and cherry blossoms while enjoying views of the nearby sloping sea cliffs.

For breathtaking views of the gardens, ascend the stairs to the three-tiered Tomyoji Temple Pagoda. This striking sight is especially enchanting during spring sakura season when cherry blossoms create a picturesque blanket across the grounds. Yokohama also boasts Japan's largest Chinatown, featuring over 600 shops selling curry and pan-fried soup dumplings, all amidst colorful trinkets lining its red lantern-adorned streets. This vibrant market, now 160 years old, is a testament to Yokohama's rich history as a hub of international trade.

Accommodation Options

For overnight accommodations, the Kahala Hotel & Resort Yokohama—part of the Leading Hotels of the World—offers luxurious waterfront views and spacious rooms, located just minutes away from the bustling Chinatown.

Kanazawa

Often referred to as “Little Kyoto” due to its enchanting traditional atmosphere, Kanazawa attracts far fewer tourists compared to its more famous southern counterpart. The rich cultures of geisha and samurai continue to thrive in this coastal city, especially in the Nagamachi and Nishi Chaya Gai districts.

Culinary enthusiasts will find Omicho Market to be a treasure trove of the freshest seafood in the region, thanks to its close proximity to the Sea of Japan. With over 170 shops, visitors can indulge in delicacies such as sea urchin and sweet shrimp korokke (fried croquettes). Another highlight of Kanazawa is Kenroku-en Garden, frequently regarded as one of Japan’s most stunning gardens. It boasts numerous lakes and waterfalls, a flower viewing bridge adorned with cherry trees and azaleas, streams, a teahouse, and more than 180 species of plants that bloom vibrantly in spring and fall.

Accommodation Options

Stay at the conveniently located Tokyu Hotel, which is near key attractions like the vibrant Omicho seafood market and the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art.

Miyajima Island

Just under an hour from Hiroshima's city center, Miyajima Island is renowned for its iconic “floating” orange torii gate, part of the Itsukushima Shrine, which stands in the Seto Inland Sea. This structure is seen as a portal between the spirit and human realms. On the island's main commercial street, Omotesando, visitors can find souvenirs and dining options, including the delightful momiji manjyu—a sweet bean paste treat available in various flavors from green tea to chocolate. As you stroll through Miyajima, you'll likely encounter the friendly deer that roam freely throughout the streets.

Accommodation Recommendations

While many people take a short day trip to the island from Hiroshima, there are several ryokan to choose from, such as Iwaso, which is just a few minutes from the main ferry terminal. Guests at Iwaso can enjoy watching deer wander just outside their individual hanare (cottages) nestled in a picturesque forest of maple trees near a stream.