When most people think of traveling to Japan, they think of big cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Fukuoka. These cities offer plenty of exciting and enjoyable experiences, but there are also many off-the-beaten-path destinations that offer intimate experiences of Japanese culture which most travelers may not be familiar with.
Kay, an expert on Japan travel from the Japan National Tourism Organization, shares her firsthand experiences exploring some of the remarkable off-the-beaten-path destinations in Japan. These videos are intended to inspire you to visit Japan and help you pick the best destinations for your future trips.
Amagoya
In this area, where the world-famous Mikimoto Pearl cultivation was started, you can meet ama divers, female free-divers who dive into the sea to catch shellfish and spiny lobsters. One of the highlights is that you can visit their seaside huts, called “Amagoya”, and enjoy a course of char-grilled fresh seafood while listening to their stories and local folk songs.
Mikimoto Pearl Island: https://www.japan.travel/en/spot/1203/
Ama – free-diving fisherwomen: https://www.japan.travel/en/japans-local-treasures/ama-free-diving-fisherwomen/
Matsushima
Matsushima in Miyagi Prefecture has attracted many people with its beauty. Believed to be one of the three most beautiful views in Japan, it appears in the works of the famous poet, Matsuo Basho. However, many of you have probably not visited Matsushima and experienced its wonders. So why not see the island’s stunning natural beauty for yourself?
Matsushima: https://www.japan.travel/en/spot/2127/
Geigi at Aizu-Higashiyama
Kyoto may be the most well-known city for Geisha culture, but you can actually experience this cultural tradition in many parts of Japan. The geisha of Aizu Higashiyama Onsen in Fukushima Prefecture offer a slightly different experience from geisha in other parts of Japan.
Higashiyama Onsen: https://www.japan.travel/en/spot/1761/
There are so many fantastic little-known travel destinations in Japan. Why don’t you visit and discover more off-the-beaten-path destinations for yourself?
