Premiering earlier this month, the 4th series of Race Across the World pits 5 pairs of adventurers against each other as they attempt to cross Asia, all without their phones, the internet, and other essentials. The first episode began with the groups departing from Sapporo, the capital of the northernmost island of Hokkaido. Endeavouring to reach the city of Nara as their first checkpoint, let’s look at some of the spots that the pairs visited along their journeys!

Situated in the western portion of Japan, known as the Chugoku region, lies Shimane Prefecture. Facing the Sea of Japan, this hidden gem is filled to the brim with stunning sights to see and experiences to undertake. The area is also serviced by one of the few remaining sleeper trains in the country, the Sunrise Izumo! So let’s see what amazing things Shimane Prefecture has to offer.

Tottori Prefecture, not to be confused with the similarly named Studio Ghibli character, a neighbour to Shimane, Okayama, and Hyogo prefectures, sits within a beautiful area of Japan, full of nature and immersive culture, yet perfect for one who is looking for a adventure that is slightly off of the beaten path. Let’s jump in and see a selection of what Tottori has to offer! 

If you want to experience a different side of Japan than the one most tourists find, you should look outside the big cities. In lesser-known rural areas and remote islands, you can try life as a sake brewer for a few days, go canoeing and snorkeling in beautiful UNESCO areas, take part in daily life in a local village and go on a guided bike tour of a popular onsen town.

One of Japan’s best places to stay at when travelling is an onsen. Saunas as well are a happy addition to many onsen, giving people a full range of relaxation opportunities. We recently spoke with Eetu-Antti Hartikainen, a PhD student at Hokkaido University in Sapporo, about saunas and sauna culture, so let’s get into it and learn a bit about ‘sa-katsu’!