Are you thinking:
“I want to delight in Japan’s beautiful nature and unique culture, rather than touring famous tourist destinations, ”
“I’d love to explore some hidden gems that aren’t well-known yet.”
While tourists tend to flock to major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya, taking a trip to explore Japan’s lesser-known spots showcasing traditional landscapes can also be a great experience. These secret spots, including hidden gems and places loved by locals, allow you to experience the real Japan, offering something you won’t find at famous tourist destinations.
In this article, we’ll introduce 10 secret spots off the beaten path in Japan. These are special places that remain relatively unknown, so be sure to consider them for your next trip to Japan.
Daisetsuzan Asahidake | Hokkaido
Daisetsuzan Asahidake is the highest mountain in Hokkaido (2,291 meters) and an excellent place to experience the beauty of nature throughout the year. While the climbing season from June to mid-October is short, you can enjoy strolling along paths surrounded by alpine plants that bloom only during this time of year.
In mid-June, you can witness Japan’s latest blooming cherry blossoms, and from late August to October, you can admire Japan’s earliest autumn leaves. Additionally, the Daisetsuzan Asahidake Ropeway that connects the foot of the mountain to the summit, offers a breathtaking aerial view of the landscape.
Naruse Dam | Akita
Naruse Dam, located in Higashi Naruse Village in Akita Prefecture, is a multi-purpose dam. Surrounded by the lush greenery and clear streams of the Ou Mountains, this dam blends seamlessly with the surrounding nature to create a magnificent spectacle.
Naruse Dam is still under construction, with completion scheduled for 2027. Thus, now is a rare chance to witness the grand construction site. Night-time viewing events and bus tours are regularly held, offering dam enthusiasts a unique opportunity to observe the progress of this impressive civil engineering project.
Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel | Saitama
The Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel, located 50 meters beneath Kasukabe City in Saitama Prefecture, is one of the largest underground flood control systems in the world. Nicknamed the “Underground Temple”, its immense pressure-adjusting water tank, lined with towering columns, makes for an awe-inspiring sight.
In addition to its critical role as a flood control facility, this grand architectural beauty has quietly gained popularity as a hidden tourist attraction. During tours, you can explore four different routes that include usually restricted areas, for a unique experience where human technology and the power of nature intersect.
Nakasendo | Nagano
Nakasendo is one of the five highways established during the Edo period, connecting Nihonbashi in Tokyo to Sanjo Ohashi in Kyoto. In Nagano Prefecture, there are 26 post towns along the route from Karuizawa to Magome, where you can feel the history through the streets that retain the atmosphere of the Edo period.
Many sections of Nakasendo are rich in natural beauty, making it a great destination for hiking. The area also has several hot springs, such as Narai onsen, Kiso-Fukushima onsen, and Nakasugawa onsen, allowing you to enjoy both sightseeing and relaxation at the same time.
Sumatakyo Gorge: Yume no Tsuribashi | Shizuoka
Yume no Tsuribashi in Sumatakyo Gorge, located in Kawanehon, Shizuoka Prefecture, is a breathtaking scenic spot. The suspension bridge, about 90 meters long and 8 meters high, stretches over the shimmering emerald green and cobalt blue waters of Ooma Dam Lake. The beautiful reflection on the water is caused by the “Tyndall effect,” highlighting the exceptional clarity of the river water.
The area features a circular walking trail that includes crossing the bridge, where you can enjoy seasonal views like cherry blossoms in spring and autumn leaves in fall. Since the bridge is situated in the valley of Sumatakyo Gorge where the terrain is uneven, it is recommended to wear comfortable shoes and clothes that are easy to walk in.
Monet’s Pond | Gifu
Monet’s Pond is a reservoir located within the grounds of Nemichi Shrine in Itadori, Seto City, Gifu Prefecture. The sight of water lilies floating on the surface and the brightly colored koi fish swimming below has recently gained attention on social media due to its resemblance to Claude Monet’s famous painting Water Lilies.
The surrounding scenery changes with the seasons—water lilies and hydrangeas fully bloom from the spring to summer, vivid autumn leaves create beautiful reflections in the fall, and a magical snowy landscape can be appreciated in the winter. As the pond’s appearance changes with the seasons and time of day, each visit brings new discoveries.
Kumano Kodo | Wakayama
Kumano Kodo is a pilgrimage route with over 1,000 years of history, recognized as a World Heritage site for its connection to Japan’s traditional shrines and temples.
Along the way, you’ll encounter ancient trees over 800 years old and Edo-period stone paths, evoking a deep feeling of history as you walk. You can also enjoy the rich variety of natural beauty, from the lush green mountains to breathtaking coastal views. For those who want to experience Japan’s history while walking through nature, Kumano Kodo is a must-visit destination.
Angel Road | Kagawa
Angel Road is a mystical path that appears and disappears with the ebb and flow of the tide. There’s a belief that if you walk hand-in-hand with someone special along this path, your wishes will come true, making it a popular spot among couples.
From the nearby “Promise Hill Observatory” and “Bell of Happiness” on the Bentenjima side, you can take in stunning views of Angel Road and the Seto Inland Sea. Ringing the Bell of Happiness as a couple is said to create unforgettable memories unlike any other.
Tottori Sand Dunes | Tottori
The Tottori Sand Dunes are Japan’s largest sand dunes, offering a gorgeous landscape of a vast sea of sand stretching out before you. The unique shapes sculpted by the wind and the scenery that changes with each season captivate visitors.
You can also enjoy various activities like camel rides and paragliding at the dunes. The moment the sun sets over the dunes is particularly beautiful and offers the perfect photo opportunity.
Takachiho Gorge | Miyazaki
Takachiho Gorge is a beautiful canyon formed by the erosion of pyroclastic flows from Mount Aso’s eruption by the Gokase River. It is also famous as a setting in Japanese mythology.. The striking contrast between the clear river and the sheer cliffs offers a perfect opportunity to truly feel the grandeur of nature.
Walking along the trails, you can enjoy the beauty of each season—from cherry blossoms in spring to autumn leaves in fall. For those looking to create lasting memories in a mystical atmosphere, Takachiho Gorge is a must-visit destination.
Summary
In this article, we introduced 10 hidden gem destinations in Japan that we highly recommend you visit to fully appreciate the country’s beauty and charm.
- Daisetsuzan Asahidake: Hokkaido’s highest mountain that offers gorgeous seasonal views.
- Naruse Dam: A grand construction site that can only be observed right now in its construction phase.
- Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel: An underground temple where human technology and art intersect.
- Nakasendo: A historic highway developed during the Edo period.
- Yume no Tsuribashi in Sumatakyo: A suspension bridge that forms a contrast with the mystical water surface to create an enchanting charm.
- Monet’s Pond: Picture-perfect scenery reminiscent of a painting.
- Kumano Kodo: A trekking route where you can explore traditional temples and nature.
- Angel Road: A mystical path that appears only at low tide.
- Tottori Sand Dunes: A vast sea of sand where you can feel the power of nature.
- Takachiho Gorge: A dramatic contrast of clear streams and towering cliffs.
These spots are perfect for those who wish to escape the bustle of the city and savor Japan’s unique nature and culture. There are still many places that remain relatively unknown, so take this opportunity to visit them and create special memories.
