Joanna James
Although Tokyo and Kyoto are on every traveller's bucket list, there are hidden highlights that are just as engaging as these big city attractions. From beach paradises to olive gardens, here's a look at some of these less-publicised points of interest.
Occupying pride of place in pastoral Wakayama, the Kii Mountain Range has been a revered pilgrimage site for Buddhist and Shinto Buddhist devotees in Japan for centuries. Lined with temples and holy shrines built hundreds of years ago, the wildlife heritage and natural wonders of this area is also worth checking out.
Located in Kagawa, Shodoshima has often been compared to the Mediterranean due to its landscapes and its olive plantations. The warm weather prevalent in this area of the Seto Inland Sea also lends itself to the comparison with the Mediterranean as it is a world apart from the cool and verdant terrains Japan is known for.
This island in Kagoshima is as close to a tropical paradise as one can get during a trip to Japan. Situated on the southernmost edge of Kagoshima city, this tiny island is home to stunning Ooganeku Beach. As the biggest and most beautiful beach in the area, it is popular among local swimmers and water sports lovers.
As a prefecture that's situated to the northeast of the Japanese capital Tokyo, Ibaraki offers one the chance to prance along one of the globe's finest flower fields. The Hitachinaka Kaihin Park with its cosmos and blue eye flowers is a nature lover's dream come true.
Another island near Kagoshima, Yakushima is perhaps best known among locals for its jungle landscapes. Believed to be more than 7000 years old, this wilderness, which is classified as a sub-tropical jungle, is ideal for hiking activities.
This hidden gem is home to some of the most breathtaking terrains in all of Japan. Abound with hiking trails, evergreen forests and gushing gorges, the environment of this valley in Tokushima is otherworldly to say the least. The fantastical elements of this area untouched by human development include the 3 vine bridges that are used to cross the gorges to this day.
Those who wish to experience hot springs, historical highlights and the best seafood in Japan should head down to Hakodate. As one of Hokkaido's lesser-known areas, the southern town is not all about beer, ski resorts and ramen.
For tourists staying at 3-star hotels in Japan or properties by Travelodge Hotels Asia or any other rest, a tour of Hirosaki Castle is a highly recommended activity. This castle is home to 2600 cherry trees, making it one of the most underrated places to witness the beauty of cherry blossoms during the months of April and May. Despite being often overlooked by tourists, Hirosaki Castle is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Japan. Its stunning cherry blossoms make it an ideal place to visit during the spring season, and its historical significance and architectural beauty also make it an interesting place to explore. If you are planning a trip to Japan and are looking for a unique and memorable experience, be sure to add Hirosaki Castle to your list of must-visit places.
Home to three lakes, extensive wetlands and lush forests, the Akan-Mashu National Park is another off-the-beaten-track highlight in Hokkaido.
This idyllic little town in Hiroshima is the perfect venue to engage in a Temple Walk, which connects 25 temples in the region. The walk, which is about 2km long, takes at least an hour to complete and is a rewarding spiritual experience even for non-believers.
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