Explore Lesser-Known Wonders of Japan | Click Travel Tips
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Off the Beaten Path: Exploring the Lesser-Known Wonders of Japan
Discover Japan's hidden gems beyond the tourist trails, from mystical forests to quaint villages, offering unique experi...
Travel Writer
Jan 28, 2026
Japan is a country that seamlessly blends the ultra-modern with the traditional, but beyond its iconic landmarks lies a treasure trove of lesser-known wonders. If you've already ticked off the usual tourist spots, it's time to delve deeper into the heart of Japan's hidden gems. In this post, we're exploring those unique places that offer a more intimate glimpse into Japanese culture, nature, and history. Whether you're an adventure seeker or a lover of tranquil landscapes, these destinations are sure to enrich your travel experience.
Yakushima: The Enchanted Island
Nestled in the Kagoshima Prefecture, Yakushima Island is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its ancient cedar forests and magical landscapes. One of the standout attractions is the Jomon Sugi, a towering cedar tree believed to be over 7,000 years old. The island's mystical allure inspired the setting for Studio Ghibli's 'Princess Mononoke'. To truly experience Yakushima's beauty, embark on the Arakawa Trail, an 8-hour hike that winds through lush forests and offers breathtaking views.
For accommodations, consider staying at Sankara Hotel & Spa Yakushima, where luxury meets nature. Rooms start at approximately ¥40,000 per night. Don't miss the chance to taste the local specialty, flying fish, at Iso Dining, where meals cost around ¥2,000.
Practical Tips for Visiting Yakushima
Yakushima is best visited between March and May or October and November to avoid the heavy rains typical in other months. Expect to spend around ¥10,000 for a return ferry from Kagoshima. Renting a car is advisable for exploring the island at your own pace.
The Tottori Sand Dunes, spanning over 16 kilometers along the Sea of Japan, offer a surreal desert-like experience. These dunes are a wonderland for sandboarding enthusiasts and camel rides, providing a stark contrast to Japan's typical landscape. Climb to the top of the dunes for a panoramic view that captures both the sandy expanse and the sea.
Stay at the Tottori City Hotel, conveniently located near the dunes, with rooms starting at ¥5,000. Be sure to visit the Sand Museum, a unique gallery showcasing stunning sand sculptures, with an entry fee of ¥600.
Shirakawa-go: A Step Back in Time
Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the Gifu Prefecture, is famed for its gassho-zukuri farmhouses. These traditional homes, with their steep thatched roofs, are designed to withstand heavy snowfall. Visiting in winter offers a fairy-tale-like scene, with houses blanketed in snow. The Ogimachi Village is the largest and most accessible area, where you can explore and even stay overnight in a farmhouse.
Accommodations in Shirakawa-go range from ¥8,000 to ¥15,000 per night, offering an authentic experience with local meals. Try the regional delicacy, Hida beef, at Soba Kappo Nakaya, where a meal can cost around ¥3,500.
Getting to Shirakawa-go
Shirakawa-go can be reached by bus from Takayama or Kanazawa, costing around ¥4,000 for a return trip. It's advisable to book your bus tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Naoshima: The Art Island
Naoshima, located in the Seto Inland Sea, is a haven for contemporary art lovers. The island is dotted with unique museums such as the Chichu Art Museum and Benesse House Museum, which blend seamlessly with the island's natural beauty. Don't miss the iconic pumpkin sculpture by Yayoi Kusama, a true symbol of Naoshima.
Stay at the Benesse House, which combines accommodation with art, starting at ¥30,000 per night. For a unique dining experience, try the Uogashi 7070, offering fresh seafood dishes priced around ¥2,500.
Visiting Tips for Naoshima
A ferry from Uno Port in Okayama Prefecture will take you to Naoshima, costing approximately ¥300 each way. Consider renting a bicycle to explore the island leisurely, with rentals available for ¥500 per day.
Ainokura: A Hidden Mountain Village
Located in the remote region of Gokayama, Ainokura is another village known for its gassho-zukuri farmhouses. Smaller and less touristy than Shirakawa-go, Ainokura offers a more intimate experience. The village is surrounded by mountains, providing a serene backdrop for leisurely walks and exploration.
Stay overnight at one of the farmhouses, such as Gassho Minshuku, with rates around ¥9,000 including meals. Sample local soba noodles at a nearby eatery for about ¥1,000.
How to Reach Ainokura
Ainokura can be accessed by bus from Shin-Takaoka Station, with a journey time of about 1.5 hours. Bus fares are approximately ¥1,500 one way.
