12 Beautiful Hidden Destinations in Japan Where You Can Escape the Crowds

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Japan may be experiencing record-setting tourism numbers, but most people stick to popular tourist hotspots. However, some of the country’s best-kept secrets are the beautiful, hidden destinations that are not overrun by tourists.

According to the Japan National Tourism Organization, almost 18 million people visited the country in the first half of 2024, shattering all previous tourism records.

Still, most visitors are playing it safe and heading to cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. Many of the country’s best places to travel are easy to get to, less crowded, and ready to take you in. Below are 12 hidden destinations in Japan where you can escape the crowds.

Satsuma Peninsula, Kagoshima Prefecture

Best Destinations in Japan Not Overrun by Tourists_Satsuma Penninsula, Kagoshima Prefecture — © Hayakato / Shutterstock

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The Satsuma Peninsula looks like a painting. Lush sub-tropical forests, cone-shaped volcanos, dramatic coastline, ancient temples, and some of the best tea in Japan make it a must for any traveler.

You can take a train or rent a car from Kagoshima and drive into the seaside town of Ibusuki. Here, you can relax in hot sand at a local hot spring and then sample some of the town’s famous cuisine. If you’re feeling adventurous, climb Mt. Kaimon to get incredible views.

Afterward, drive to Minamikyushu City and see famous sites such as the Sebira Nature Park, Chiran Samurai Residence Garden, and Iwaya Park. Then, drive along the coast of Bonotsu and see charming fishing villages and some of the most beautiful coastlines in the world.

Aomori City, Aomori Prefecture

Aomori sits on the northern tip of Honshu Island and is famous for its winter sports, delicious sake, and beautiful natural surroundings. You can visit mountain villages, hot springs, breweries, and cuisine that may change your life.

Start your day at a local onsen or visit the Sukayu Onsen. Then, head for a drive through the countryside to see shrines and temples hidden in the forests, such as the coastal Takayama Inari Shrine.

In the city, take a tour of the Nishida Sake Brewery before ending your night downtown for some of the best cuisine of your life. From complex noodle dishes and gourmet seafood to Miso Curry Milk Ramen, a local working-class delicacy, you won’t be disappointed.

Otsu, Shiga Prefecture

Otsu may be close to Kyoto, but the city sees far fewer tourists. It’s surprising, given its historic temples and shrines, beautiful parks, delicious food, and stunning views of Lake Biwa.

Start your Otsu adventure at the massive Onjo-ji Temple complex and see some of the most impressive temple architecture outside of Kyoto. Then, drive to the mountains to visit Enryaku-ji Temple, another ancient temple complex and one of the region’s most renowned.

After getting your temple fix, drive around the scenic Lake Biwa for beautiful views, great food, and charming countryside. Then, make your way to the Miho Museum for one of the best art exhibits in the country before returning to Otsu to enjoy the nightlife.

Kagoshima City, Kagoshima Prefecture

Kagoshima is one of the best destinations in Japan, but you won’t find many tourists. This is surprising because it has some of the best food, the best scenery, and the friendliest people in the country. And that’s saying something since Japan already has a great reputation.

You can see the Sakurajima volcano from the romantic shoreline of Waterfront Park. Then, take the famous Ferris wheel in Kagoshima Station. When you feel like shopping and dining, head to Tenmonkan to try some of the best seafood and ramen in the country and sample the regional spirit of shochu.

The next day, check out the views from the Shiroyama Park Observation Deck. Then, make your way to the historic Neko Shrine and Kagoshima Gokoku Shrine before heading back to the city for a fun night out.

Gifu City, Gifu Prefecture

Gifu is just a short drive north of Nagoya, one of Japan’s largest cities. However, it feels like a world away. You’ll see some of the most historic sites in Japan and one of the birthplaces of the Samurai.

Start at Gifu Castle, a reconstructed medieval fortress. Then, drive to the historic Tsumago-juku, one of Japan’s best-preserved and photographed traditional villages. Then, head back to Magomejuku, another preserved heritage site, before driving to the famous Hida-Osaka Falls.

Back in the city, go out for sake tasting and sampling the local cuisine. The next day, drive to the Gujo Hachiman Castle, one of Central Japan’s most striking castles.

Kirishima Kinkowan National Park, Kagoshima, and Miyazaki Prefectures

Kirishima is a sacred natural site full of history, lush landscapes, temples, and plenty of exciting things to see. First, start your morning at the Kirishima Open Air Museum. This is one of Japan’s most renowned museums, where you can see fine art, sculpture gardens, and nature trails with exciting views.

Then, drive to Kirishima Jingu, one of Southern Japan’s most revered cultural sites. This Shinto temple was built in the 6th century. You’ll feel the magic of the area as you walk through the peaceful gardens and trails surrounding the ancient shrine.

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After your peaceful visit to the shrine, check out Senriga Falls for a picturesque waterfall and short hike. End your day at one of Kirishima’s famous hot springs (onsen) to discover the true meaning of relaxation.

Miyazaki City, Miyazaki Prefecture

Miyazaki is a surf city, and in a country as obsessed with the sport as Japan, that’s a big deal. The laid-back, coastal city is more than sun tans and big waves. You’ll find endless things to see, including coastal temples, amazing cuisine, and incredible nightlife.

Start your day off in Aoshima and head to the historic Aoshima Shrine. Then, drive down the striking coastline to Udo Jingu, a beautiful shrine perched on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Back in the city, fuel up on Miyazaki’s popular ramen and specialties like Chicken Nanban before driving to Takachiho Gorge. This eye-catching river canyon has waterfalls, boat rides, and a romantic natural setting unlike anywhere else in the world.

Toyama Prefecture

Toyama went through a major earthquake on New Year’s Day in 2024. However, it’s ready for tourists and there are a trillion reasons to go. The small prefecture is located on the beautiful Sea of Japan and has everything you could ever want in a Japanese dream destination.

Start in the UNESCO Heritage Site Gokayama for temples, historic houses, and indescribably beautiful scenery. Then, head to Takaoka City to see the giant Takaoka Daibutsu, one of Japan’s largest bronze Buddha statues.

Finally, indulge in the region’s famous sushi and go for a drive around the inspiring Amaharashi Coast. Then, end your day downtown Toyama to try Toyama’s delicious sake (nihonshu) and fun nightlife.

Kumamoto, Kumamoto Prefecture

Kumamoto is a fascinating city full of history and beautiful landscapes. Start off by seeing Kumamoto Castle, a 17th-century castle with a samurai museum and beautiful architecture. Then, walk through downtown and Shimotori Street for epic cuisine, cafes, and shopping.

The next morning, drive to Aso-Kuju National Park, one of the best hiking spots in the country. Here, you can see an active volcano and visit waterfalls, museums, and beautiful temples hidden in the forest.

If you have time, drive to the beautiful Nagasaki Prefecture nearby. You’ll traverse through winding mountain roads, coastal villages, and stunning nature before arriving in Nagasaki City, the site of the second Nuclear Bombing in WWII and a must-see tourist destination.

Ishikawa Prefecture

Ishikawa Prefecture is another must-see destination on the coast of the Sea of Japan. Here, you’ll find ancient temples, historical places, and beautiful nature. Plus, the locals in this part of Japan are so warm and welcoming that you may not want to leave.

Start your experience in Kanazawa City and visit the historic Oyama Shrine before walking through the Kenrokuen Garden. Walk downtown to sample Kaga-ryori, the local comfort food, and go shopping for local crafts.

The next day, drive up the Noto Peninsula for stunning ocean views. You’ll see lighthouses, shrines, and endless reasons to stop along the way. If this is your first visit to Japan, Ishikawa may be all you need to fall in love with the country.

Kochi City, Kochi Prefecture

Kochi sits at the south of Shikoku Island. With all it has to offer, you’ll be surprised it’s not overburdened by tourism.

Starting in the city, head to Kochi Castle, a towering fortress built in 1603. After seeing the castle and walking through the beautiful Kochi Park, head to The Museum of Art to see fantastic local and classical art.

Outside the city, you can explore the Ryugado cave network before driving along the Monobe River for inspiring nature and visiting charming villages. After your drive, head back to town to try the local bonito fish grilled over fire, a local delicacy you don’t want to miss.

Hokkaido Prefecture

Hokkaido may be a massive island, but it’s almost impossible to pinpoint a top destination. No matter where you go on the island, you’ll find spectacular food, awe-inspiring landscapes, and friendly people who are happy to receive tourists.

Start your Hokkaido adventure in Sapporo and visit the Sapporo Beer Museum. If you come in the winter, you can enjoy epic winter sports nearby and the annual Sapporo Snow Festival.

If you want the ultimate escape into nature, visit northern Hokkaido’s Rishiri Rebun Sarobetsu National Park. Or, visit the other side of the island and hike the Shiretoko National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the country’s most spectacular natural areas.