4 Malay Influencers explore what Japan's quaint countryside has to offer ー Follow them across Chubu, Kansai and Chugoku regions

Day 5 to 6: Visit a village hidden in the mountains, then wrap up with a romantic Tunnel of Light.

Links to the rest of this itinerary series:

Day 1 to 2: Relax at one of Japan’s Three Great Gardens, then switch up with the lively city vibes of Osaka
Day 3 to 4: Have fun at a world-class theme park and a ninja studio, before strolling the townscape of Gujo Hachiman

DAY 5: Takayama City

Takayama is a city in the mountains of the Hida region of Gifu Prefecture. The well-preserved unique culture that the city takes pride in to this day, was born over a span of 300 or so years in peaceful isolation from most other areas of Japan, thanks to its location at a high altitude. In addition to its cultural attractions, Takayama is also known for its natural beauty, with picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and forests circling the traditional townscape. The town’s Takayama Festival, held twice a year in spring and autumn, is famous nationwide for its grandiose floats.

Shirakawago

Shirakawa-go is a small, picturesque village located in the mountains of Gifu Prefecture, Japan. It is famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, which are characterized by their steep thatched roofs that resemble hands clasped in prayer. The village is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visitors come from all over the world to see its untouched architecture, closed off from modern hustle-and-bustle by pristine natural surroundings. The farmhouses were built to withstand heavy snowfall in the winter months, and many of them are still occupied by local residents. The village is particularly popular during the winter months, when the farmhouses are illuminated at night, seeming to appear right out of fairytales.

DAY 6: Mozo Wonder City

Mozo Wonder City is one of Nagoya's most famous shopping malls, sprawling a staggering total area of 265,896 square meters (2,862,080 square feet). The mall spoils its visitors for choice by offering a variety of shopping options spanning restaurants, cafes, bars, and fashion boutiques, some which are brands and franchises only found in Japan. The megamall is only a 5-minute walk away from Kamiotai Station, which in turn is one-stop away from the main Meitetsu Nagoya Station and the JR Central Nagoya Station.

Nabana No Sato Winter Illumination

Nabana No Sato is a flower theme park located in Kuwana City, Mie Prefecture, Japan. The winter illumination at Nabana No Sato features millions of LED lights arranged in various displays and installations throughout the park, including tunnels of light and colorful LED art installations. One of the main attractions, their illuminated garden isn’t just a normal garden lit-up: the flowers themselves are made out of lights that create a stunning visual display. The winter illumination at Nabana No Sato typically runs from November to early May, with displays changing throughout the season to showcase different themes and color schemes. The park is particularly popular during the holiday season, when it is decorated with festive decorations and special events are held.