The northernmost and least developed of Japan’s main islands, Hokkaido is a vision of untamed, epic wilderness. It has wild bears roaming in the deep green forests, hawks circling above crystal clear lakes and smoking craters, rugged shores, and offshore islands within touching distance of Russia. It’s also home to the Ainu, Japan’s indigenous population of hunter-gatherers who are fighting to maintain their way of life as globalization looms.

Niseko

Niseko scores top points for apres-ski culture.

Heavy snowfall during the winter attracts skiers and snowboarders to the powder capital of Japan, Niseko. Mild summers also the mountains almost overrun with city-dwellers looking for relief from the muggy climate of the main island. There are National Parks galore. Shiretoko, a World Heritage site, and Daisetsuzan are the most popular. In autumn, Hokkaido is the first prefecture in Japan where the leaves change colors.

Sapporo is the bustling capital city of Hokkaido. It’s actually Japan’s fifth-largest city. The annual snow festival in February, which displays gravity-defying snow sculptures throughout the streets, and the famous Sapporo beer, have established the city as a tourist destination in its own right.

Hakodate

Miss Japan: Hakodate boasts the title of ‘Japan’s most attractive city’.

The harbor city of Hakodate, at the island’s southern tip, was one of the earliest cities in Japan to open to international trade and there’s some exceptional seafood to be had along its cosmopolitan streets. Smaller, but just as perfectly formed, Otaru is a canal-lined port city also famed for its food. Asahikawa, the second-largest city in Hokkaido after Sapporo, is worth a visit for its exceptional zoo.

Hokkaido is world-famous for its seafood and fish, especially crab and sea-urchin. It’s also the main producer of the nation’s dairy. A Hokkaido dish will usually have some kind of dairy addition—ramen is served with a knob of butter—and outside of the island, you’ll notice that the most coveted dairy products are usually Hokkaido brand.

It wouldn’t be a Japanese natural landscape without the promise of hot springs. Head to Noboribetsu, Hokkaido’s most popular onsen retreat, for a spot of incredibly scenic R&R. Noboribetsu was also named one of GaijinPot Travel’s Top 10 Japan Travel Destinations for 2018.

Tohoku is a large region in the northeast of Japan’s main island Honshu. Its rugged, mountainous terrain and rows of river lowlands make up almost one-fifth of Japan’s total area. Harsh winters keep the resident population low but visitors, among them Japan’s most famous poet Basho, have been enjoying some of the country’s most beautiful scenery for centuries.

Despite the blow to numbers after the Fukushima nuclear accident, tourism to the Tohoku region is starting to thrive as people catch on to the superior skiing, onsen (hot spring baths) and other outdoor activities available.

Akita

Akita Kanto Matsuri festival. a Japanese festival celebrated in August.

A northern slice of the far-flung Tohoku region, it’s no surprise that Akita’s attractions are nature-based. People in Akita live their lives according to the rhythm of nature, celebrating many events to a distinctly agricultural calendar. You’re likely to encounter some kind of festival when you visit. Throughout the year, trekking, camping, boat cruising, swimming, climbing, and hot springs abound.

Aomori

Photo by: Tsurunomaihashi Bridge in Aomori Prefecture.

People have long been drawn to Aomori Prefecture’s otherworldly powers. From the pristine waters of Lake Towada to the last surviving virgin beech forest of Shirakami-Sanch or the sulfurous hellscape of Mount Osore. It’s a place where you can strongly feel the spirit of nature.

Yamagata

Make your way up the 1,000 steps.

Yamagata is probably the region’s most visited area, known for the remote Zao Onsen ski resort which is one of the only places where you can see Japanese juhyo or “ice monsters.” Yamagata prefecture is also home to the famous Ginzan Onsen and Yamadera temple, a scenic mountain temple where Basho composed one of his most popular haiku:

“Ah, this silence. Sinking into the rocks. Voice of cicada.”

Iwate

Mount Iwate seen in the background of Morioka city

Iwate also boasts a popular ski resort, Appi Kogen, which has excellent off-piste routes and an extended ski season lasting until early May. Iwate is also famous for wanko soba, tiny bowls of soba noodles that are served one after the other (usually about 60 bowls for the biggest eaters).

Miyagi

Naruko in Autumn.

Sendai in Miyagi Prefecture is the biggest city in the Tohoku region. During the summer, the Sendai Tanabata Matsuri attracts thousands of visitors to see the huge colorful streamers paraded throughout the streets. In the northeast of Miyagi, Naruko Onsen is home to five hot spring areas renowned for their skin-softening sulfur waters

Fukushima

Aizu-Wakamatsu Castle is also known as Tsuruga Castle.

Fukushima is the entryway from urban Kanto. The picture-perfect samurai city of Aizu-Wakamatsu is close to being Fukushima’s star attraction.  The southernmost city of Shirakawa, reachable via an hour and a half bullet train from Tokyo, makes a good starting point. Further south is the historic post town of Ouchi-juku. Its 300-year-old thatched-roof buildings have been perfectly preserved.

Getting there

See the snow monsters of Zao Onsen, Yamagata Prefecture.

Try the JR East Pass (Tohoku area) to help with train costs. If you are traveling around northern Japan and you are a temporary visitor try this pass, you may want to try this flexible 5-day pass (any 5 days within two weeks of issuance).

If you buy it in Japan, it is typically ¥20,000 for an adult and ¥10,000 for children (6 to 11). If you are purchasing from overseas, typically there is a slight discount of ¥1,000 off for adults and ¥500 off for children.

Kanto is a region on the eastern side of Japan’s main island, Honshu, and is the most urban and densely populated area in the country. The region also includes a number of volcanic islands in the Pacific Ocean. The largest of the Izu islands, Izu Oshima, can be reached in under 2 hours by high-speed jetfoil from Tokyo. For a seriously remote experience, it’s a 25-hour ferry ride to the subtropical Ogasawara Archipelago for breathless vistas and a spot of sunset whale watching.

Tokyo

Cross the famous intersection at Shibuya.

At the heart of the Kanto region lies the sprawling Tokyo megalopolis, extending all the way outwards from Tokyo Bay to the surrounding mountains that make up the regional border. The prefecture’s 23 city wards are home to a handful of landmarks with each area that can easily take up a day to explore. From the traditional sights in Asakusa to the retro game centers of Akihabara or to the glamorous shopping district of Ginza, there’s always something new just around the corner. For those who’d like an escape from the noise, a trip up Mount Takao or an afternoon in Okutama might just be the trick.

Chiba

Hike up Mount Nokogiriyama and you might just encounter a monkey or two.

Most visitors to the region will arrive via Tokyo Narita Airport which is actually located in Chiba about 60 kilometers east of the capital and where you’ll also find Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea. A summer destination from those living in the neighboring prefectures, Chiba remains as an ideal destination for nature lovers. Whether it be an adventure filled hike up Mount Nokogiri where you may encounter a monkey or two, or waking up at dawn to catch the sun rays trickle through Kameiwa Cave there remains much to be discovered.

Kanagawa

Photo by: Offering beautiful views of the iconic Mount Fuji, a trip up to Owakudani Valley is well worth the wait.

Located to the south is Kanagawa, which includes the cosmopolitan port city of Yokohama, as well as the historical coastal town of Kamakura. Hakone, with its many onsen (hot spring baths) and beautiful views of nearby Mount Fuji is a popular romantic getaway. With a variety of experiences to choose from and its seamless connectivity from central Tokyo it’s no wonder why it remains as a popular weekend day trip.

Gunma

Relax in the healing waters of Kusatsu Onsen.

To the north, the mountains of Gunma offer a great range of outdoor activities from skiing in the winter to canyoning  in the summer. One of the biggest highlights of the prefecture would be visit to the hot spring town of Kusatsu. Hailed as one of the most popular spring towns in the country the water is known for its healing properties which may just be what you need after a day spent outdoors.

Tochigi

Toshogu Shrine in Nikko, Tochigi.

The ancient shrines and temples of Nikko in neighboring Tochigi are a designated World Heritage Site. Known as the “Strawberry Kingdom” Tochigi is often visited for its many strawberry farms where visitors can pick and eat strawberries to their heart’s content. For those who are up for more sightseeing, head up toward Lake Chuzenji and visit the nearby Kegon Falls. Autumn in Nikko is world-famous for its spectacular koyo or changing colors of the leaves.

Ibaraki

Something blue at Hitachi Seaside Park.

Ibaraki is famous for its fermented soy bean production (natto), being the birthplace of Aikido and so much more. The prefecture is filled with multiple parks that are spread throughout the area. Kairakuen Park is considered one of the top three gardens in the country and is most famous for its plum blossom viewing is located in the prefectural capital of Mito city. Another popular park is called Hitachi Seaside Park. Its blooms burst into a medley of vibrant colors from sky blue hues to baby pink pastels all throughout the spring and summer seasons.

Saitama

Explore the streets of Kawagoe.

Saitama is easily accessible through multiple train lines that connect it to the districts of Ikebukuro and Shinjuku in Tokyo. Popular day trips include visiting the town of Kawagoe where tourists can feel a more traditional side to Japan as they walk down the wooden warehouses that line the streets. Try the candied sweet potato and indulge in candies that most Japanese people grew up eating. Chichibu is also growing in popularity in terms of seasonal outdoor activities, from river cruises to camp sites there’s always something to do no matter the time of year.

Getting there

Hop on one of the many train lines that connect the region.

To make traveling easier buy the JR Tokyo Wide Pass to help you budget your transportation expenses. This is a 3-day pass that covers the Kanto region.

If you buy it in Japan, it is typically ¥10,180 for an adult and ¥5,090 for children (6 to 11).

The central region of Japan’s main island, Chubu is the mountainous hinterland that predominantly serves as a passage between the economic centers of Kanto and Kansai. There are nine prefectures in Chubu which can be grouped together into three regions: the Hokuriku region, consisting of Fukui, Ishikawa and Toyama prefectures, the Koshinetsu region, which includes Yamanashi, Nagano and Niigata, and the Tokai region, made up of Shizuoka, Aichi and Gifu prefectures.

Fukui

Legendary cliffs on the Sea of Japan.

Fukui is located along the Sea of Japan coast and is best known for Eiheiji temple, an active monastery in the mountains with around 200 monks who come to train in Soto Zen Buddhism. Other attractions in the prefecture include Echizen Ono Castle in Ono City. During the colder months of the year the early morning fog blankets the town below making the castle look like its floating above the clouds. For breathtaking sunset views, head to the Tojinbo Cliffs and watch the sun go down behind one of the prefecture’s most iconic natural landmarks.

Ishikawa

Kenrokuen is considered as one of the most beautiful gardens in Japan.

Ishikawa is worth visiting for the picturesque city of Kanazawa, which has well-preserved samurai and geisha districts, as well as one of Japan’s top three most beautiful gardens at Kenroku-en. The city is home to several art museums, one of the most popular being the 21st Century Museum Of Modern Art that boasts of a wide collection of contemporary pieces from all over the world. Elsewhere in the prefecture, head up the coast to see the spectacular scenery at the secluded Noto Peninsula or drop by Myoryu-Ji Temple which is sometimes incorrectly referred to as the ninja temple.

Toyama

Walk along the snow corridor on the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route.

Toyama prefecture marks the start of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route which is a unique route across the Northern Japan Alps. From April to June you can walk (or drive) through a giant snow corridor where accumulated powder creates 20 meter high white walls, before continuing through Chubu Sangaku National Park all the way to Nagano prefecture. During the warmer months tourists often visit Kurobe Gorge which is the country’s deepest V-shaped gorge. The trail throughout the gorge is filled with hot springs and beautiful nature views.

Yamanashi

Catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji on a clear day.

It’s hard to miss the soaring Mount Fuji, which dominates landlocked Yamanashi prefecture. The Fuji Five Lake region at the base of the mountain has some beautiful lakeside resorts, with hiking, fishing and hot springs aplenty. Aside from The Fuji Five Lake region, an easy day trip from Tokyo via the Limited Express Azusa from Shinjuku station would be hiking up Shosenkyo Gorge. The summit offers a beautiful panoramic view of the surrounding nature as well as a view of Mount Fuji on a clear day.

Nagano

The tranquil “Crow Castle.”

While Nagano might be most known for its wide range of ski resorts like Shiga Kogen and the Jigokudani Monkey Park in the winter, there remains so much more to do and see. A trip to the prefectural capital of Matsumoto can easily make up a full day of exploring. Start from the stunning Matsumoto Castle or “Crow Castle” then make your way to the Matsumoto Museum of Art for a day packed with history and culture.

Niigata

Glide through the water in style.

Niigata receives some of the heaviest snowfall in the entire country which makes it a top tier winter destination. Due to the snow the prefecture is able to produce high quality rice and rice wine or sake. In March the city of Niigata celebrates Sake-no-jin which is an event much like Oktoberfest. For a more rustic experience, head outside the city toward Sado island where tourists can enjoy hot springs, hiking, and more sake brewery tours. Hop into the Hangiri or (washtub boats) in Shukunegi, a traditional boat ride to tour you around the coastline. If you’re up for a more immersive cultural experience, join a taiko (drum) playing workshop at the Sado Island Taiko Center.

Shizuoka

Mount Fuji also muscles in on Shizuoka prefecture but the area is best known for Izu Peninsula, a popular weekend destination thanks to its stunning coastlines, beautiful beaches and quaint towns within easy reach of Tokyo. The towns of Atami and Ito found on right on the coastline are some of the more well known hot spring towns. If hot springs may not be your thing, hang around one of the many beaches that outline the peninsula. The more adventurous may consider consider a day or two spent exploring the western part of the peninsula at Nishiizu or Dogashima Kaigan Coast.

Aichi

Nagoya city’s skyline with Nagoya Tower.

The bustling economic center of Nagoya in Aichi prefecture is Japan’s fourth largest city. During cherry blossom season one of the most notable landmarks in the city, Nagoya Castle bursts into life as the castle grounds are filled with pinkish hues. To see more seasonal blooms another popular destination is Tokugawa Garden which is right beside the Tokugawa Art Museum and offers scenic views of Ryusenko Lake. While in the city don’t forget to sample some local prefectural delicacies like eel or unagi and chicken wings.

Gifu

Shirakawa-go village in Gifu is larger, but expect to see more tourists.

Gifu prefecture is home to the ‘little Kyoto’ of the north, Takayama. A peaceful town found at the foot of the Japanese Alps, the well preserved streets of Takayama are very much reminiscent of the Edo period. Located nearby are the picturesque UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama. Both are home to wooden traditional Japanese farmhouses some of which are available for overnight lodging. In autumn visit Yokokura Temple for the most vibrant burst of foliage.

A region on the western side of the main island of Honshu, Kansai is where you’ll find the traditional Japan of your imagination; winding cobbled streets lined with dark wooden houses, the sound of distant gongs in the mountains and the smell of incense in the rain. Also known as the Kinki Region, Kansai is sometimes seen as the more quirky counter to its eastern neighbor, Kanto. Kansai people are known for their humor, love of food and for riding on the other side of the escalator. They also speak a distinct dialect known as ‘Kansai-ben’.

Osaka

Explore Dotonbori via river cruise.

Found right in the heart of the Kansai, Osaka serves as the economic and commercial gateway into the rest of the region. Osaka City is home to several sightseeing spots all of which are a short train ride away from each other. Start your day with a stroll around the Osaka Castle grounds then hit the shopping streets of Dotonbori or Shinsaibashi and end your trip with breathtaking night views at Umeda Sky Building. If you’d rather go out into nature, venture further out into the prefecture as there are several hiking trails that cater to varying difficulty levels.

Kyoto

Walk along one of the many traditional side streets in Kyoto.

Kyoto is known as the ancient capital of Japan. Nowadays tourists both domestic and international flock to the prefectural capital to explore the many traditional temples and shrines that are scattered all over the city. Try to visit the many UNESCO World Heritage Sites within the city like Kinkaku-ji, Ginkaku-ji and Kiyomizudera Temple to name a few. From Kyoto Station a one-day bus pass allows travelers to reach majority of the sightseeing spots with ease.  At dusk wander around the Gion district and if you’re lucky you may just spot a geisha or two.

Nara

Todaiji Temple is said to be Japan’s most historical landmark.

A popular day trip among tourists, Nara offers ancient temples, a 15-meter Buddha statue and a whole lot of deer. The best way to explore the capital city would be to rent bikes to explore the expansive Nara Park. Majority of the major tourists sites are found within the park along with the ever popular deer. Check out Todai-ji Temple one of the oldest landmarks of Japan as well as Horyu-ji Temple which is said to be the oldest wooden building in the world.

Wakayama

The Nachi Falls located right beside Nachi Taisha and Seiganto-ji Temple is Japan’s tallest waterfall.

To experience a more spiritual side of Japan take a quick trip down the coast to Wakayama. The prefecture itself is home to a good number of UNESCO World Heritage Sacred Sites such as Nachi Taisha Shrine and pilgrimage routes. If you have some time on your hands consider taking on the challenge of the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage which will take you all over the mountains of Wakayama to see the Three Grand Shines. Make sure to end your trip by visiting one of the many onsen towns like Yunomine that has over 1,800 years of history.

Shiga

Mangetsuji Temple is also known as the “floating temple”.

Shiga borders the largest lake in Japan called Lake Biwa or “mother lake”. To view the majestic lake from the best vantage points in the prefecture, start your trip with a stop at Otsu City the prefectural capital. From there, you have the option of daytime or night cruises on American style paddle-wheel boats that will take you around the lake. For those with some extra time, hop on a train about an hour away from Otsu Station to reach Mangetsuji Temple or the “floating temple hall.” Hikone Castle is also a noteworthy tourist spot that is also a popular cherry blossom viewing spot.

Hyogo

Kobe Skyline at dusk.

From breathtaking traditional architecture to scenic natural landscapes Hyogo is a destination that can be enjoyed no matter the season. In the western part of the prefecture lies one of Japan’s most iconic castles, Himeji Castle. To the center is Kobe the port town whose official mascot is a phoenix due to rising again after the devastating earthquake in 1995. Stroll along the European inspired buildings in the Kitano District then make your way to dig into some Chinese cuisine at Nankinmachi, the city is easily navigated on foot. For a more laid back experience head out into the country side and spend a night or two at Kinosaki Onsen.

Mie

Dress up in a ninja costume and pose in front of Iga Ueno Castle.

Said to be the birthplace of Ninjas as well as the a shinto shrine regarded as the “Soul of Japan”, Mie is brimming with endless itinerary ideas. Iga Ueno Castle celebrates the annual Ueno Ninja Festival in May where tourists can wear ninja costumes and take part in ninja related training activities. Two hours away from Iga is Ise Shrine which is considered as one of the most important shrines in the country. Made to commemorate the sun goddess Amaterasu, Ise Shrine is located in the middle of the forest and has over 2,000 years of history.

Getting there

Kyoto Station’s wicked cool interior architecture.

Try the JR Kansai WIDE Area Pass to help with transportation fees. If you are traveling around western Japan and you are a temporary visitor try this pass, you may want to try this 5-day pass. This pass does not include travel within Mie prefecture.

If you buy it in Japan, it is typically ¥10,800 for an adult and ¥5,400 for children (6 to 11).

Most visitors will end up in the Chugoku region because of Hiroshima but there’s a lot more to the westernmost part of Honshu than travel guides give it credit for. Of the five prefectures in Chugoku, Hiroshima and Okayama are the most well-known, while Shimane, Tottori and Yamaguchi are among the least visited prefectures in Japan.

Hiroshima

The remains of the Atomic Bomb Dome in Hiroshima.

Hiroshima prefecture is dominated by its vibrant capital city with an infamously tragic past. Tourists to the prefectural capital visit the Peace Memorial Park, Peace Memorial Museum and the UNESCO World Heritage A-Bomb Dome. Other sights in the prefecture include Hiroshima Castle and Miyajima Island which is less than an hour away from the city center.

Okunoshima or Rabbit Island is famous for its adorable population of wild rabbits. There are also beaches, a small resort and onsen (hot spring baths) if you need a break from all that cuteness.

Okayama

Stroll the canals of Kurashiki in Okayama prefecture.

One of the most famous sights in Okayama is Korakuen which is hailed as one of Japan’s top three landscape gardens and is right beside Okayama Castle. Just outside of Okayama is Kurashiki, a charming canal town with historic buildings and local shops selling Chugoku’s famed white peaches. Visitors to Kurashiki can also buy some of the best quality locally made denim goods in the country.

Shimane

Izumo Taisha is Shimane Prefecture’s biggest draw.

Shimane prefecture is home to the ancient Izumo Grand Shine. Nearby, the Iwami Ginzan mine complex is a World Heritage site, and you can visit the historic shafts and galleries that made up part of what was once the world’s leading silver mine. The prefecture is also home to a distinct style of Kagura or Shinto related ritual performance called Iwami Kagura.

Tottori

Photo by: Try out the different outdoor activities at the sand dunes.

For something you didn’t expect on your Japan itinerary, the 50 meter high sand dunes that run along the Sea of Japan coast in Tottori prefecture are a spectacular sight, and there’s plenty of sand-related activities including camel riding and sand-boarding to try. The prefecture is also referred to as the Manga Kingdom since there are a handful of famous manga artists that hail from the prefecture. There are several manga museums that visitors can visit as well as famous motifs scattered around town. Start your manga themed itinerary at the Tourist Information Center outside Sakaiminato station and get going.

Yamaguchi

The historic Kintaikyo Bridge in Iwakuni, Yamaguchi prefecture.

Yamaguchi is the furthest point on Honshu and offers easy access to Kyushu and Busan by ferry.  The most popular tourist attraction in the prefecture is the reconstructed copy of Kintaikyo Bridge. The wooden structure has five arches which symbolize western Japan and in the past was meant to deflect invasions. Crowds from all over the country flock to the bridge during cherry blossom season as it is said to be at its most picturesque. Motonosumi Inari Shrine is also a highly visited tourist spot that offers beautiful ocean views and a trail of over 120 torii gates. For nature lovers, Akiyoshidai plateau offers some great hiking trails all year round.

Located south of Honshu, Shikoku is the smallest of Japan’s five main islands after Okinawa. Historically isolated from the mainland, Shikoku developed unique architectural and religious characteristics. The region is also a top producer of citrus.

Shikoku is most famous for its 88 Temple Pilgrimage, a 1400 kilometer route established by Kukai, the founder of Shingon Buddhism in Japan. The pilgrimage circles through sweeping valleys, past tranquil streams, and secret rural communities, up to misty mountaintop shrines and self-realization. Although modern pilgrims can travel the route by bus, it’s worth making at least some of the journey on foot to really experience what Shikoku has to offer.

Tokushima

If you time it right, sightseeing cruises are available to get a closer look at the Naruto whirlpools.

Tokushima is situated between lush mountain ranges and the Naruto whirlpools. The prefectural capital is host to the Awa Odori Festival which is one of Japan’s most famous dance festivals. For those looking to embark on the 88 Temple Pilgrimage, Tokushima serves as the starting point. Before embarking on the pilgrimage, try the many local delicacies like Tokushima ramen which is best described to be heavy, flavorful and topped with a raw egg.

Ehime

Dogo Onsen has been said to be the inspiration for the bathhouse in Spirited Away.

Ehime is the final destination on the Shimanami Kaido, which is a cycling course that is made up of several bridges that link Honshu to Shikoku. The trail passes over six small islands in the Seto Inland Sea and offers beautiful views of the surrounding seascape. In the prefectural capital of Matsuyama City, tourists can take the ropeway up to Matsuyama Castle for a sweeping panoramic view of the city’s landscape. For Ghibli fans, remember to drop by Dogo Onsen which has over 1,000 years of history and been said to be the inspiration for the bathhouse in Spirited Away.

Kochi

Spend the afternoon doing all sorts of outdoor activities at Shimanto River.

Nature lovers will enjoy exploring the vast wilderness of Kochi. Start your stay at the capital city by visiting the Kochi Sunday Market to sample the freshest produce and enjoy the local atmosphere. From the market, make your way toward the city center and spend a few hours roaming the grounds of Kochi Castle. Afterwards, fill your itinerary with all sorts of outdoor activities. There’s whale-watching at Cape Muroto on the southern tip of the prefecture, and a chance to see ancient fishing techniques at the pristine Shimanto River near Nakamura.

Kagawa

Zentsu-ji Temple is the biggest temple among the 88 Temple Pilgrimage.

Kagawa marks the last leg of the 88 Temple Pilgrimage as it has the remaining 22 temples. While it the smallest of the four prefectures that make up the Shikoku region, Kagawa is home to Zentsu-ji which is the largest among the temples on the trail. For those who would want a more laid back experience, the prefecture has a handful of islands dedicated to modern art museums such as Naoshima Island and Teshima Island.

Getting there

A train going over the Shimanto River.

Try the ALL SHIKOKU Rail Pass to keep transportation costs down. If you are traveling within Shikoku and you are a temporary visitor try this pass, you may want to try this flexible multi-day pass (validity period varies from 3 to 7 days).

The prices range from ¥9,500-¥13,500 for an adult and ¥4,750-¥6,750 for children (6 to 11). If you are purchasing from overseas, typically there is a slight discount of ¥500 off for adults and ¥250 off for children.

Visually Kyushu is paradise on earth; a lush green rolling landscape of fertile valleys, smoking volcanoes, waterfalls and ancient cedar forests nurtured by a subtropical climate. Kyushu is known as ‘onsen island’ and there are many hot spring towns to stop into while you’re travelling around. It’s coastlines are populated by sea turtles and dolphins, and frequented by surfers looking for big waves, while the regions’ smaller islands hold the key to discovering more about the early stages of Japanese civilization.

Most visitors will access Kyushu via Fukuoka and its well-connected airport, which has flights to various destinations domestically as well as throughout Asia and, increasingly, Europe.

Fukuoka

Ohori Park is a popular weekend hang out spot among locals.

Located on the northern part of the island, the prefecture’s capital of Fukuoka city is the island’s largest city and a vibrant multicultural hub. Attractions within the city are easily within reach due to the highly connected public transportation system. Some of the most popular attractions include the Fukuoka Castle Ruins or Maizuru Castle which is a top cherry blossom viewing spot in the spring and Ohori Park which is a popular weekend destination for locals to unwind in. The areas of Tenjin and Nakasu are home to the famous Fukuoka Yatai which are food stalls that line the streets and have been a tradition dating all the way back to the Meiji Period.

Nagasaki

The Peace Statue symbolizes the desire for peace.

Nagasaki has emerged from its tragic history to become a thriving port once again. Throughout the streets of the prefectural capital visitors can still see the influence Portuguese and Dutch architecture on a handful of the buildings. To get around, tourists can hop on trams that stop at many of the major tourist attractions. One of the most highly visited spots in the city would be the Nagasaki Peace Park which continues to commemorate the lives lost during the war and to signify the importance of peace. About 20km off shore, tours to the abandoned Gunkanjima (Hashima Island) remain popular among local tourists. For a half day trip within the prefecture Huis Ten Bosch is a Dutch theme park in Sasebo city that has a wide array of European inspired motifs like tulip fields, windmills and canal rides.

Oita

Beppu is a town in Oita packed with ryokan and onsen.

The capital of onsen is Beppu in Oita prefecture, where you can sink into hot water baths, mud baths, sand or steam baths – the town looks as though it’s continuously on fire from the steam rising over the buildings. A visit to the Hells of Beppu is probably one of the most exciting attractions within the city. Jigoku or hells are hot springs that are mainly for viewing rather than bathing in. Each “hell” has its own special feature from its color to the ability to erupt a geyser. Located within the same prefecture, Yufuin is a dreamy onsen town filled with traditional inns and cafes that lead toward Lake Kinrin-ko.

Kumamoto

Photo by: Fougerouse Arnaud One of the three premier castles in Japan.

Considered one of the best castles in Japan is centrally located Kumamoto Castle in Kumamoto City. Elsewhere in the city is Suizenji Garden a peaceful oasis modeled after the Edo-era road that connected the roads between Tokyo and Kyoto. Kurokawa Onsen let’s visitors stroll around in their yukata (bath robe) on a bath tour, sinking into as many outdoor tubs throughout town as they please. Mount Aso offers challenging trails to its peak during hiking season.

Okinawa

Yonaha-maehama Beach’s sparkling blue waters.

Located to the southern most part of the region, the islands of Okinawa are sometimes considered a part of Kyushu and can be easily reached by ferry though flying is more popular. Landing in Naha visitors tend to spend their time strolling the streets of Kokusai Dori (International Street) and sampling the local delicacies, touring the area surrounding the Shurijo Castle and going for a quick dip at Naminoue Beach the nearest beach from the city. Miyakojima is another popular destination in Okinawa and is home to the white sand beaches of Aragusuku Beach and Yonaha-Maehama Beach, not to mention top tier scuba diving spots. Spend a day relaxing at the beaches on either side of the island.

Kagoshima

Sakurajima can be seen from the prefectural capital of Kagoshima city.

Kagoshima is located in the southern most part of Kyushu island. The capital city is located right beside Sakurajima an active volcano that occasionally showers the city with ash and is also a popular hiking spot. Kagoshima city has several museums and shrines as well as serves as a transportation hub to reach areas like Okinawa. Local delicacies to the prefecture are a combination of savory pork dishes to fresh seafood.

Miyazaki

Explore the gorge by renting a rowboat

For a less touristy tropical island experience, head to the mango-filled mountains of Miyazaki. The rugged landscape and endless shoreline will keep tourists busy with packed itineraries. Down the coastline Udo Jingu stands out for its love fortunes and breathtaking seaside views. To the mountains Takachiho Shrine offers religious dance performances called kagura which are unique to the region. Nearby, explore the majestic Takachiho Gorge on rental boats to spend an afternoon immersed in nature.

Saga

Tozan Shrine at sunset

The smallest prefecture in the Kyushu region is home to world class pottery. The town of Arita is known most for its porcelain production and pottery. Attractions within Arita include Tozan Shrine that displays unique porcelain motifs. Yutoku Inari Shrine is of the three largest Inari shrines in the country that is located in Kashima City and offers sprawling views of the town below.

Getting there

Photo by: hans-johnson Your chariot awaits.

The Seven Stars in Kyushu is a luxury cruise train that provides short tours across the island for a small fortune.

Buy the JR Kyushu pass to save on transportation. If you are traveling around southern Japan and you are a temporary visitor, choose from the following validity periods of three, five and seven days.