Japan is more than just neon-lit streets and whizzing bullet trains – from wisteria-draped parks to ancient pilgrimage trails, the spiritual nation is abundant with flourishing landscapes. Narrowing down the six most beautiful places in Japan is a tough ask, but we’re up to the challenge. Hike up mighty Mount Fuji, unwind on Jodogahama Beach or row along the Gokase River for unforgettable moments in nature. Already packing for your next trip to Japan? Read on for our carefully curated list of the country’s most picturesque spots…
- Mount Fuji, Yamanashi
- Jodogahama Beach, Iwate
- Kumano Kodo, Wakayama
- Ashikaga Flower Park, Tochigi
- Naoshima, Kagawa
- Takachiho Gorge, Miyazaki
Mount Fuji, Yamanashi
It’s only right to begin our roundup of the most beautiful places in Japan with the majestic Mount Fuji. This sacred stratovolcano attracts thousands of visitors to its powdery peak year-round. Admire Japan’s tallest mountain from one of Tokyo’s towering observation decks as it rises behind the city’s skyline, or choose from four adventurous hiking trails for a close-up view of the snowy summit. Ornate temples and historic shrines have sprouted up around the mountain’s foothills over the centuries, and today, this UNESCO World Heritage site remains a spiritual symbol in both Buddhist and Shinto traditions.
Image by Christoph Papsch/LAIF-REA
Jodogahama Beach, Iwate
Swap scenic slopes for beachside bliss on a visit to Jodogahama Beach. Translating to ‘Pure Land Beach’, this serene spot is part of the Sanriku Fukko National Park and is just a 15-minute bus journey from Miyako Station. The white pebbled shoreline is the perfect spot to bask in the summer sun, bordered by verdant green pines overlooking serrated stone outcrops. Ready to cool off? Take a dip in the calm, glassy waters, sheltered from the open ocean, or snap some photos on a short walk to the nearby piers and panoramic viewpoints.
Image by Romain Laprade
Kumano Kodo, Wakayama
Next up on our list of the prettiest places in Japan is the ancient network of trails known as the Kumano Kodo. Once a sacred pilgrimage route, this densely canopied forest is tucked away between the Kii Mountains. Follow in the footsteps of enlightenment-seeking pilgrims on a private overnight trek; stay in a cosy ryokan (traditional inn) and visit the three grand Shinto shrines of Kumano (Kumano Hongu Taisha, Kumano Hayatama Taisha, and Kumano Nachi Taisha) – collectively known as Kumano Sanzan. No matter the footpath, cascading waterfalls, rural villages and charming temples await discovery.
Image by Ippei Naoi/Getty Images
Ashikaga Flower Park, Tochigi
Although Japan is renowned for cherry blossoms, wonderful wisteria takes centre stage at Ashikaga Flower Park in the Tochigi Prefecture. Visit between mid-April and mid-May to stroll beneath pink, purple and white-tinged tunnels in full bloom. The park also hosts an annual illumination display, where over 350 trees are set aglow with dazzling LED lights. Be sure to stop by the over 150-year-old ofuji (Great Wisteria Tree), which features an impressive 80,000 individual lilac blossoms.
Image by YS graphic/Getty Images
Naoshima, Kagawa
Dubbed Japan’s art island, Naoshima easily earns a spot on our list of the most beautiful places in Japan. Sitting pretty in the Seto Inland Sea, the island is renowned for its sandy stretches and contemporary art installations. Keep an eye out for Yayoi Kusama’s vibrant sculptures dotted around Naoshima – the giant, pier-perched yellow pumpkin is hard to miss and has become a symbol of the Benesse Art Site. Don’t miss Tadao Ando’s Chichu Art Museum on your visit. Chichu means ‘under the earth’ in Japanese, and true to its name, this museum is built almost entirely underground. Head below ground to admire artworks by Claude Monet, James Turrell and Walter De Maria.
Image by Letizia Le Fur
Takachiho Gorge, Miyazaki
Last but by no means least is the tranquil Takachiho Gorge on Kyushu Island in the Miyazaki Prefecture. Formed by the cooling of volcanic rocks following the eruption of Mount Aso, the narrow gorge is carved by the flowing Gokase River. Hop in a rustic rowing boat for a close-up view of the craggy cliffs and the tumbling Minainotaki waterfall, or trace the paved path that borders the gorge to reach Takachiho Shrine. For top-notch photo opportunities, plan your visit during autumn to see the rocks blanketed in orange and red foliage, transforming the gorge into one of the prettiest places in Japan.
Image by Ippei Naoi/Getty Images
Written by Amy Larsen | Header image by Nichika Sakurai / Unsplash
