If you’ve ever wanted to get off the beaten path in Japan, this article is for you. We’ll show you why more Japanese travelers are staying close to home and escaping the usual tourist spots.
You’ll find hidden gems like the udon capital of Kagawa, the peaceful alpine towns of Takayama and Gujo Hachiman, and the quieter, more authentic beauty of Kanazawa and the ancient hot springs of Tamatsukuri Onsen. Get ready to explore a different side of Japan, away from the crowds.
While visitors from abroad crowd the famous sites of Tokyo and Kyoto, people in Japan are planning trips to quieter, more authentic places. This trend comes from a desire to get away from the usual tourist spots and enjoy their country in a more relaxed way. For you, the smart traveler, this is a chance to see Japan as it really is.
#1 -???? Kagawa: The Udon Prefecture
This small prefecture on the island of Shikoku may not be on most travel guides, but it’s a favorite with local tourists. A recent study by a big Japanese travel company found Kagawa had the highest rating among locals. This is because it’s the home of Sanuki Udon noodles, offering a great food trip. Kagawa gives you a real feel for a peaceful lifestyle, with beautiful spots like the Ritsurin Koen Garden.
#2 – ????️ Takayama & Gujo Hachiman: Alpine Towns
Found in the Japanese Alps, these charming towns feel like a step back in time. Takayama has a lot of its 17th-century look, with old streets and a morning market that’s full of life. Close by, Gujo Hachiman is a calm place, known for its canals full of koi fish and stores that make realistic food replicas—a special art form in Japan.
#3 -???? Kanazawa: A Quieter Kyoto
Called “Little Kyoto,” Kanazawa has a rich history without the big crowds. It has a well-kept castle and the Higashi Chaya District, a historic area where geishas once lived. This spot is calmer than similar places in Kyoto. Kanazawa is a perfect place to see Japan’s beautiful past in a more calm setting.
#4 -♨️ Tamatsukuri Onsen: The Old Hot Spring
Many visitors go to Hakone for a hot spring bath, but people in Japan know the best spots are in the country’s oldest onsen towns. In the Shimane Prefecture, Tamatsukuri Onsen is one of Japan’s oldest hot springs, with a history going back many years. It is a place to rest and enjoy a tradition deeply rooted in Japanese culture, a true getaway from city life.
Final thoughts
Going to these hidden spots will not only avoid the typical tourist traps but also find a deeper appreciation for the real Japan. You’ll get to meet local people, taste food made for them, and discover traditions that have not been changed to fit visitors. It’s here, in these honest moments and places, that you can find a true understanding of the culture of Japan.
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