Ever thought of Japan as more than just anime and sushi? A staggering 73% of Japan is cloaked in forests.
Japan’s a nature-lover’s dream, with untouched mountains and unique islands just waiting to be explored. Our sprawling peaks paint scenes of dreamy valleys and shimmering streams.
And we’ve got active volcanoes that are a total must-see! Thanks to our geography, expect warm beaches and snowy summits.
While some gems might be a bit away from Tokyo, they’re a travel-lover’s delight. If Japan’s on your radar for a long visit, these spots should top your list!
1. Shiretoko Peninsula 🌳 – World Heritage
This untouched slice of paradise is bursting with unique wildlife and greenery. Cruise through the World Heritage sites, and be wowed by the dramatic cliffs, coastline, and creatures of the deep. Keep your eyes peeled for wild bears, crafty foxes, and majestic eagles.
And for a cherry on top? Immerse yourself in nature’s own hot springs for a chill-out session like no other!
2. Drift Ice 🧊
In places like Shiretoko, Monbetsu, and Abashiri in Hokkaido, this dream comes alive! As the sun paints the ice with hues of gold and pink, you might even spot seals and various birds. Sailing through this icy wonder, breaking the surface beneath, is an experience that’ll stick.
A favorite among international visitors, these cruises cater to everyone with multilingual guides!
3. Blue Pond 💧
Ever seen a pond so blue it takes your breath away? That’s what Hokkaido’s ‘Blue Pond’ is all about!
It’s not just the vibrant hue of the water, but the surrounding birch trees add a magical touch. These trees are cold-climate beauties, making this view a rare Japanese gem.
Depending on the season, the pond transforms, but its brightest blues pop out in summer. A sight to behold!
4. Oirase Gorge 🏞️
Many waterfalls are scattered along the mountain stream created by the clear, clear water. There’s a trail alongside, letting you hike or simply relax with the babbling brook.
Surrounded by nature, it’s a perfect escape to recharge and breathe deep.
5. Shirakami Mountains 🌳 – World Heritage
Home to one of East Asia’s largest untouched beech forests, it’s a biodiverse wonderland.
Amidst its lush greenery, there are trails just beckoning to be explored. I was wrapped in a different world – the soft sunbeams peeking through the leaves, the refreshing air, and the gentle serenades of birds.
And, nestled inside? “Blue Pond” – its deep blue is unlike anything I’ve seen, even different from Hokkaido’s famous blue pond.
There are also several other ponds, and each one has a different water color. It really made me wonder!
6. Zao’s Okama Crater 🌋
Feel the might of an active volcano at Okama, a crater lake where you can sometimes catch a whiff of sulfur. It dazzles with emerald green in summer, and turns into a frosty wonder in winter.
Want to drive up? You can until mid-November. After that? Jump on a tour. And speaking of tours, combining Okama with the ‘frost-covered trees’ experience that I introduce the next section, is a bucket-list-worthy experience!
7. Juhyo 🧊
In winter, Yamagata dresses up in nature’s art, with trees transforming into glittering, frost-covered sculptures thanks to the mix of humidity and cold. Bathed in sunlight, these icy wonders shimmer even more, captivating visitors.
And amidst this icy beauty, you can enjoy winter sports and activities. But a heads-up: it can get bone-chilling cold, so bundle up and come prepared!
8. Matsushima 🏝️
Matsushima is recognized as one of Japan’s three most scenic views, standing out even among the country’s stunning landscapes.
With over 260 unique islands dotted with pine trees, the view is simply breathtaking. You can hop on a boat tour weaving between the islands, but the best vantage point? Definitely from some hilltop lookouts!
9. Goshiki-numa Pond 💧
Imagine vibrant ponds crafted by volcanic eruptions, each shimmering in shades of blue to green depending on the day and season. I visited one evening in late October and was mesmerized by the vivid blue ponds framed by trees just starting to show their autumn colors.
Well-marked trails take you past over 20 of these stunning ponds in about 90 minutes. And if you’re into birdwatching, you’re in for a treat; this place truly is a haven.
10. Hitachi Seaside Park (Ibaraki)
Hitachi Seaside Park, a mere 1.5-hour drive north from Tokyo, holds a special place in my heart. This park becomes a sensation in May, and I can’t help but be enchanted by it.
Nemophila, those delicate blue flowers, cover the hillsides as far as the eye can see – an astonishing 5.3 million of them. It’s as though a vivid blue carpet is unrolled beneath the wide, open sky, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that takes my breath away.
Just be prepared for heavy traffic on Hitachi Seaside Parks surrounding roads, especially on weekends and holidays; visiting on a quiet weekday is my personal recommendation.
In autumn, the park undergoes yet another transformation as charming, spherical kochia bushes burst into brilliant red hues. By mid-October, this sea of red takes over the landscape, and even when I visited toward the end of October, the fading browns couldn’t diminish its beauty.
What makes this park even more extraordinary is its accessible entrance fee – just 700 yen for adults, and children under 15 can enter for free. It’s a treasure worth every penny, and my visits to this paradise remain etched in my heart.
11. Oze National Park🏔️
Step into Oze, a beloved national park plateau, and be wowed by its marshlands, pristine streams, and picturesque mountains. Early summer transforms it into a canvas of white blossoms, while autumn paints it with fiery fall colors.
And as you hike? Keep your eyes peeled. You might just spot some of Japan’s unique wildlife!
12. Mt. Fuji 🗻 – World Heritage
Mount Fuji isn’t just Japan’s tallest peak, standing proudly at 3,776m – it’s a sight so breathtaking you’ll remember it forever. Its almost perfect conical shape has sparked countless art and cultural inspirations.
Whether cloaked in winter snow or towering clearly in the distance, Fuji’s beauty is a lasting memory.
And around its base? Dive into a world filled with Japan’s rich history and natural wonders, so much stuff to enjoy around Mount Fuji!
13. Kamikochi ⛰️
Nestled at 1,500 meters, Kamikochi boasts stunning mountains, untouched forests, and serene lakes that draw in tourists and climbers alike. There’s a plethora of trails where nature’s wonders come to life right before your eyes.
When I visited during a hot summer, the place was buzzing with people looking to escape the heat, leading to a heavy traffic jam. But the beauty? It’s all in the peace – only special buses can access this haven, ensuring a break from car noise and fumes.
14. Togakushi Shrine ⛩️
Imagine walking through a serene path lined with over 200 majestic cedar trees that seem to stretch on forever. That’s Togakushi Shrine for you. The trek to the shrine is its own reward, with nature wrapping you in a comforting embrace.
Even in the heart of winter, with its biting cold and blankets of snow, the place has this dreamy, magical aura.
To really experience shrines like a local, please see my how to behave at shrines and temples guide, with that knowledge before a visit you will impress your surroundings and immerse yourself a bit extra at this amazing shrine!
By the way, this area’s known for its delicious soba noodles. I had to wait for two hours at this restaurant, but trust me, that icy-cold soba was totally worth the wait!
15. Sumata Pass
Sugano-kyo holds a special place in my heart, a haven of captivating mountains and rivers. The water here is like liquid magic, painted in stunning emerald green and cobalt blue hues that almost defy belief. It’s all thanks to the crystal clarity of the water, a result of minimal plankton presence, and the way the sunlight plays with it.
Let me assure you, the photo I took needs no enhancements – it’s exactly what I saw.
But what truly etched itself into my soul is the view from the observatory, overlooking the Oku-Ōi Lake Station. It’s like an island unto itself, tethered to the mainland by a striking crimson iron bridge where trains glide through the sky. It feels like a scene from a dream, trains dancing amidst the clouds.
I feel incredibly fortunate because, despite the limited train schedule, fate smiled upon me as the train graced that bridge with its presence just when I was there. It was like a dream come true, and I couldn’t resist capturing that enchanting moment through my lens. There’s a cozy café at this station, and I savored the view of this hidden treasure while sipping a warm cup of coffee.
What adds to the magic is that not only do regular trains pass by, but you can also hop on a vintage steam locomotive. Picture the sheer delight of witnessing this spectacle from the window of a puffing steam engine. Securing your seat costs just an extra 1000 yen on top of the standard fare, and they’ve made it easy with an English reservation form.
In this captivating region, you’ll discover numerous bridges, but one that truly steals the spotlight is the ‘Dream Suspension Bridge.’ It sways gently underfoot, granting breathtaking glimpses of the shimmering lake below. It was a heart-pounding experience, walking across this bridge while immersed in this awe-inspiring panorama.
The journey to reach this place took me about 3 hours from the city center, but let me tell you, the unparalleled beauty and extraordinary experiences awaiting you make every second of that trip absolutely worth it.
16. Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route ☃️ – Snow Walls
If you’re looking for a limited-time spring spectacle, this is a must-see.
Imagine walls of snow piled up to 20 meters high, formed from the snow that accumulates during winter. Walking alongside these walls, I was blown away by their sheer magnitude.
You’ll need to hop on a bus to get here. After a breezy 30-minute ride, reaching up to 2,400 meters, it’s a winter wonderland, even when the snow’s melted everywhere else at the foot of the mountain. The brilliant blue of the sky against the pristine white snow was simply breathtaking.
Keep an eye out for the rock ptarmigans – endangered birds that sport a snowy white plumage in winter, blending perfectly with their surroundings.
17. Shiroyone Senmaida Rice Terraces 🌾
Located just north of Kanazawa, where the famous Kenrokuen Garden resides, you’ll find the Noto Peninsula. Here, a breathtaking scene unfolds – a cascade of 1,004 terraced rice paddies that extend all the way to the coastline. These small paddies create a mesmerizing sight as they reach the seashore, a view so captivating that it’s been recognized as a nationally designated cultural treasure and a place of scenic beauty.
The tiniest of these paddies are only about 50 centimeters square, too small for machine work, so dedicated hands tend to them with care. It’s the collective effort of many that preserves this stunning landscape, adding to its allure. Remarkably, it’s also proudly listed as a UNESCO World Agricultural Heritage site.
These terraced rice paddies have a rich history, a testament to Japan’s past when rice, considered a precious commodity, was cultivated even on steep mountain slopes. By late April, as the paddies fill with water, they mirror the blue sky and the setting sun, painting a picturesque scene.
Furthermore, from October to March, they come alive with the glow of 25,000 LED lights, a spectacle so enchanting that choosing the perfect time to visit becomes a delightful dilemma.
18. Makino Pick land 🌲
This place holds a special spot in my heart, right here in my hometown. It’s my little haven, and without fail, I make the pilgrimage here at least once every year.
Stretching over about 2.4 kilometers, you’ll encounter around 500 majestic Metasequoia trees standing tall in a perfectly straight line. While human hands planted these trees, they grace us with an ever-evolving and breathtaking spectacle across the seasons.
What I highly recommend is the autumn foliage season. Countless people from all over come to witness this breathtaking scenery.
On sunny days, the sunlight filters through the leaves, illuminating the tree-lined path and transforming the autumn leaves into an indescribably beautiful sight. Along both sides of this avenue, there are walking paths, and it feels like you can walk endlessly, immersed in the beautiful landscape.
Visiting in the evening is also a favorite of mine, as the tree-lined path becomes like an autumn tunnel. It’s so stunning that it’s hard to decide when to visit.
As summer approaches, the clear blue sky and lush greenery create a picture-perfect scene. When the wind rustles through, you can hear the gentle sound of leaves, turning it into a truly relaxing atmosphere.
In winter, with the leaves fallen and the trees covered in snow, it’s yet another beautiful landscape.
19. Amanohashidate
Amanohashidate is recognized as one of Japan’s three most scenic views, and a magnet for nature lovers.
Formed over time by the accumulation of sand, it’s home to a staggering 8,000 pine trees!
The blend of sandy white, piney green, and ocean blue creates a breathtaking panorama that looks like a bridge to the heavens.
Renting a bike to explore or taking in the view from an observation deck? Both are fantastic ways to soak in its beauty.
Amanohashidate is located just north of Kyoto, if you are looking for more things to see in the area I have a best places in Kyoto article with more tips!
20. Kumano Kodo – World Heritage
The Kumano Kodo, recognized for its historical and cultural significance as well as its stunning natural beauty, is designated as a World Heritage site.
This spiritual pilgrimage route, with a history spanning over a thousand years, allows you to intimately experience the depth of Japanese faith and spirituality. Lush mountain trails surrounded by forests and the serene landscapes of rivers and waterfalls welcome travelers.
A millennium ago, when medical and chemical advancements were nonexistent, many believed that after enduring rigorous training, they would find tranquility along this path. People from the capital city walked approximately 600 kilometers over about a month to reach this destination.
Nachi Taisha Shrine ⛩️
Kumano Nachi Taisha, a part of the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, stands beside Japan’s majestic Nachi Falls, boasting a staggering 133-meter drop—the nation’s tallest cascade. The union of Nachi Falls and the resplendent vermilion hues of Nachi Taisha creates an undeniably sacred and enchanting ambiance.
Nachi Taisha not only fosters connections between people but is also revered for its ability to bridge the gap between countless wishes, including those of matchmaking and serendipitous encounters.
During a bygone era marred by social and gender inequalities, Kumano served as a sanctuary, embracing individuals of all backgrounds and statuses, promising healing and salvation. Seekers flocked to this hallowed ground, yearning for robust health, longevity, and immunity from affliction.
You can enjoy ‘Elixir of Longevity Water’ by a cup sold near the waterfall. Drinking this water may just add some extra years to your life.
This waterfall flowing from the mountains of Kumano is one of Japan’s three most historic falls. The sight of the waterfall and Kumano Nachi Taisha shrine together? Simply stunning! It’s home to deities of bountiful harvests and matchmaking.
21. Mount Yoshino 🌸
A place famous for cherry blossoms, which many Japanese may think of, is Mount Yoshino in Nara Prefecture. It has been selected as one of Japan’s top three cherry blossom destinations.
Additionally, in conjunction with the Kumano Kodo introduced earlier, Mount Yoshino has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Every spring, Mount Yoshino transforms into a canvas of around 30,000 cherry blossoms.
The cherry trees dotting the mountainside bloom at slightly different times due to the varying altitudes, creating a mesmerizing gradient of cherry blossoms. This unique charm sets it apart from other renowned spots.
From the viewpoint at Yoshimizu Shrine, you can take in a breathtaking panorama of these cherry trees adorning the slope. Keep an eye out for the distinctive sign marking this view spot at Yoshimizu shrine; it’s a bustling spot where many gather, making it a breeze to locate.
I took a leisurely 40-minute hike up towards the top of the mountain, and from there, I marveled at the sea of cherry blossoms below. While the view from above was truly breathtaking, my personal favorite was the one from the shrine I mentioned earlier.
Up there, on the grassy area, folks were spreading out their lunch and just relaxing. It felt like the perfect spot to soak in the beauty of the cherry blossoms and unwind.
The early bird gets the worm.
During cherry blossom season, numerous temporary parking lots are set up in the vicinity, and shuttle buses run from these lots. Nevertheless, since it’s such a famous cherry blossom spot, it’s essential to arrive early in the morning, as the parking lots tend to fill up quickly. An early start is a must.
When it comes to Mount Yoshino’s specialties, Kakinoha-zushi steals the show. It’s a delightful creation where vinegared rice, salted mackerel, or salted salmon are wrapped snugly in persimmon leaves. This traditional dish, cleverly designed for long-lasting freshness in the days before refrigeration, has been a local favorite for ages.
These bite-sized treats won’t break the bank, with each one priced under 200 yen. I had the pleasure of savoring both the mackerel and salmon versions, and honestly, I couldn’t choose a winner; they were both incredibly tasty. I highly recommend indulging in both flavors when you make your visit.
Matabei-zakura (Historical cherry tree)🌸
Close by, there’s a remarkable cherry tree known as ‘Matabei-zakura.’ It’s a spot I’d highly recommend visiting. Despite being just one tree, it’s an imposing giant, boasting an age of over 300 years.
Unlike the cherry blossoms I mentioned earlier on Mount Yoshino, Matabei-zakura belongs to the weeping cherry variety, with its branches gracefully hanging downward. While the typical cherry blossoms have a charming and delicate aura, this weeping cherry tree carries an air of majesty.
In this area, you’ll find a few parking lots, but they’re not particularly large. Additionally, some of them are unattended, with small payment boxes for self-payment, so it’s important to be cautious.
22. Naruto Strait Whirlpools 🌀
The rapid tidal currents and unique seabed contours of Naruto Strait create mesmerizing whirlpools, some reaching up to 20 meters in diameter! There are sightseeing boats that get you up close and personal with these powerful natural phenomena.
When I was a kid, I took this boat here. The whirlpool’s intensity was so overwhelming, I thought it might just swallow us whole. It’s a memory that’s hard to forget.
And for just 510 yen, you can get a breathtaking view from the observation deck of the Naruto Bridge. The sight through its glass windows is simply captivating.
23. Shodo Island 👼
Shodoshima, nestled within Seto Inland Sea National Park, is a place close to my heart. I’ve taken the ferry here from Kobe and Himeji multiple times. Once you arrive at the port, you can hop on a bus or rent a bicycle or car to explore this island gem.
But what truly captivates me is the famous ‘Angel Road.’ It’s not just a path; it’s a 500-meter sandy wonder that appears only during the magic of low tide, reminiscent of France’s Mont Saint-Michel. There are two windows each day, around 3 hours apart during low tide, so I never forget to check the tide schedule.
Watching this sandy pathway emerge from the depths of the sea is nothing short of enchanting. And they say that crossing it hand in hand with someone you cherish can make your deepest wishes come true. While crossing the path is a beautiful experience, don’t miss the opportunity to soak in the stunning views from the ‘Hill of Promises Observatory.’
24. Tottori Sand Dunes 🏜️
Tottori boasts some of Japan’s grandest sand dunes, stretching a whopping 16 kilometers and spanning 2.4 kilometers wide.
Ever wonder how they formed? Think weathered rocks, rivers, the sea, and the push and pull of waves.
But what’s truly captivating is how the wind always reshapes these dunes, giving them a wavy, mesmerizing look. And if you catch the sunrise or sunset here, it’s pure magic!
Plus, if you’re up for some fun, try sand skiing or paragliding over the dunes.
25. Chichibugahama Beach 🏖️
Often dubbed the ‘Uyuni Salt Flats of Japan’, this spot has become a must-visit for its mesmerizing mirror-like reflections during calm, low-tide days.
While a sunlit blue sky makes for a great photo, catching the beach during sunset lets you snap some stunning silhouette shots. It’s the perfect canvas for Instagram-worthy moments!
26. Niyodo River 🏞️
Boasting the title of “Japan’s clearest river,” its pristine waters are a sight to behold. Along its course, numerous waterfalls cascade, offering both beauty and raw power.
The view of the gorge from a boat is a must-do, so much so that booking in advance is often recommended. And don’t get me started on the delicious river fish and wild veggies you can savor from these crystal-clear waters!
27. Akiyoshi Plateau
Akiyoshidai Plateau, with its sprawling limestone landscape, offers a unique sight you won’t forget. It’s home to rare flora and fauna, making it a hiker’s dream. Beneath, you’ll find a captivating world of limestone caves featuring stunning stalactites and crystal-clear underground lakes.
Funfact: Stalactites grow only 1cm every 100 years! Yet, there are many stalactites that have grown as long as pillars. The place really gives you a sense of deep history.
28. Dolphin watching 🐬
In Amakusa, Nagasaki, I had the chance to embark on a truly remarkable adventure – dolphin watching. This experience involves hopping on a boat and getting astonishingly up close with pods of wild dolphins.
During my visit, it didn’t take us long on the boat to come across a delightful group of dolphins, and surprisingly, we weren’t too far from the shore. In fact, we found ourselves completely surrounded by these graceful creatures! Watching them swim so elegantly and playfully, coming within touching distance, was an incredibly heartwarming experience.
What made it even better was that I managed to secure a spot on this fantastic one-hour tour with a same-day reservation for just 3,000 yen. It’s a rare and exhilarating adventure that I absolutely recommend.
29. Mt.Unzen 🌋
Mt.Unzen, which had a major eruption back in 1990, still rumbles with the vigorous release of gases. The amount of gas varies over time, and at its peak, it’s so thick that you can’t see what’s in front of you.
The force of the gas escaping feels as if an airplane is passing right by, giving it a remarkable sense of power. Yet, strangely, this spectacle of gas venting is both stunningly beautiful and incredibly majestic.
Walking along the trail, you can get up close to the hot springs bubbling up vigorously, and when you lightly touch the erupting gas, it surprises you with its heat, providing a real, hands-on experience of the hot spring’s raw energy.
Let me share a special experience you shouldn’t miss here – foot steaming. Picture this: you place your feet on these wooden boards, and suddenly, you feel the warmth of the earth’s heat and steam rising beneath you.
It’s a truly unique sensation, one I hadn’t encountered anywhere else in my hot spring adventures. This added a whole new layer of enjoyment to my time in this hot spring paradise.
And after? Soak in one of the many hot springs nearby – it’s a must-do!
30. Takachiho Gorge 🚣
Takachiho Gorge, shaped over time by erosion from a volcanic eruption at Mt. Aso, is jaw-droppingly gorgeous. Picture clear waters reflecting sun-dappled cliffs and cascading waterfalls.
Boating through it is a hit, and, a tip from someone who missed out: book about a week in advance!
Strolling along the valley’s walking path offers stunning views, and the walk itself is incredibly refreshing.
31. Mt. Aso 🌋
Mt. Aso, a famous active volcano, boasts a whopping 25km-wide caldera. Surprisingly, inside it are plains and even villages!
It occasionally vents steam, and during my visit, its activity was so intense that evacuation alerts were issued. The sight of billowing smoke was unreal! At its heart lies an emerald-green pool, a mix of rainwater and sulfur. Watching the smoke rise above this is mesmerizing.
On the way to the crater of Mount Aso, you’re surrounded by breathtaking nature. When I visited in autumn, I was greeted by stunning fields of golden pampas grass.
32. Sakurajima 🌋
Sakurajima, a remarkable gem tucked away in Kagoshima Prefecture, is like a close friend who always brings excitement to the party. It’s renowned globally as one of Japan’s most active and famous volcanoes, constantly puffing out volcanic smoke, boasting an impressive tally of around 1,000 eruptions annually.
One of the coolest things about it is its location right in the middle of the bay. This means you can admire Sakurajima from numerous vantage points, each revealing a different facet of its personality, depending on when and where you’re looking. Getting there is a breeze – you can either drive or catch a ferry for a quick 15-minute island escape. And guess what? The observatory within Sakurajima is the ultimate spot, offering the closest, most jaw-dropping views of this fiery beauty.
But here’s the cherry on top. Thanks to all that volcanic action, you’ll find hot springs nearby. And when I say hot springs, I mean Ibusuki Onsen, where you can immerse yourself in something truly unique – sand baths. I’ve got all the juicy details on this page, and trust me, it’s an experience you’ll treasure.
33. Yakushima 🏝️ – World Heritage
Jomon Sugi 🌲
Yakushima, a World Heritage Site, is a haven of lush nature and a unique ecosystem. The star attraction? The ancient Jomon Sugi, a tree that’s over 5,000 years old!
Trekking to this colossal tree takes about 5 hours one way. But the path is gentle, with nature’s wonders and giant trees fueling your adventure spirit.
After a long hike to reach the Jomon Sugi, not only was I moved by its majesty up close, but even from a distance at a nearby lookout, I could still sense its powerful aura. It truly stood out, radiating a presence unlike any other tree around.
If you like activities and more active things to do in your traveling please check out my other articles more on that theme here.
Wilson’s Stump 🪵
Heading towards the ancient Jomon Sugi, you’ll suddenly stumble upon the Wilson stump. Chopped down about 500 years ago, its inside is now hollow. Peek inside, and you’ll find fresh water springing up. The real treat? Looking up inside the stump reveals a heart-shaped view, and the trees beyond add an extra layer of magic to the scene.
Shiratani Unsui Gorge 🌳
Shiratani Unsuikyo is a highlight amidst the island’s lush forests, famed for inspiring the settings in Studio Ghibli’s renowned movie “Princess Mononoke.” Walking through this subtropical primeval forest, you’ll be captivated by the pristine streams and the ethereal mist that often settles in the valley, creating an otherworldly
Mixed bathing open-air bath ♨️
After a long trek, imagine soaking in a hot spring right by the sea. On Yakushima Island, I found one such onsen. I visited two open-air baths. The first one had a slight partition between the men’s and women’s sides. There’s no barrier from the changing area to the bath, so it’s quite the wild experience, lol!
And the second bath? Totally bonkers! What caught my attention? The mixed-gender baths! There were so many people taking a dip that I couldn’t snap a pic of the bath. Oh well! There wasn’t even a proper changing area. So, I had to sneak behind some rocks to change. Quite the adventure!
Of course, I did catch glimpses of a few men in their natural state. And the waves rolled right into the bath since it was a windy day.
But, the highlight? The fun chats with locals while soaking. The 300 yen donation was a small price to pay for such a unique experience.
Starry sky viewing 💫
Surrounded by the sea and with barely any electric lights on the island, it gets pitch-dark at night. But thanks to that, you’re treated to a stunning starry sky.
34. Iriomote Island 🏝️ – World Heritage
Iriomote Island is a slice of subtropical paradise, with crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, sprawling mangroves, and dense jungles.
Whether you’re up for canoeing through mangroves or night-time jungle exploration, this island has it all. In the jungle, I came across unusually a spiders as big as my palm and unique trees.
Surprisingly, while fireflies usually dance only at the end of spring, here you can see them all year round! One evening, while driving, I had to stop for a big goat chilling right in the middle of the road.
One of the island’s unique charms is the traditional buffalo-drawn carts. The slow-paced buffaloes are endearing to watch. Sitting in a cart, swaying gently with the breeze, while the driver serenades you with traditional songs and instrumentals, is truly a moment to cherish.
Conclusion
Japan’s natural wonders are truly a sight to behold. From tranquil forested valleys to awe-inspiring volcanic landscapes, every moment felt like stepping into a timeless world.
If you’re looking for an adventure that touches the soul, Japan’s great outdoors is an unforgettable journey. Want more inspiration on places to visit in Japan? I share my best more general must-visit places in Japan here!
