Japan is world-renowned for its spectacular scenery – and it’s easy to see why. From shimmering lakes and cascading waterfalls to lush forests and majestic mountains, its natural beauty is truly something to behold. So, whether you’re looking to cycle through the lush pine trees at Amanohashidate or relax on the white-sand beaches of the Amaharashi Coast, we’ve got you covered. Read on to discover our shortlist of the most unmissable Japanese landscapes…
- Amanohashidate Sandbar, Kyoto
- Kumano Nachi Taisha, Wakayama
- Kujuku Islands, Sasebo
- Amaharashi Coast, Toyama
- Shiretoko Goko Lakes, Hokkaido
Amanohashidate Sandbar, Kyoto
There might be numerous beautiful Japanese landscapes, but only three were named the most scenic in 1643. Among these was Amanohashidate, a stunning sandbar in the Kyoto prefecture that’s said to resemble a bridge between heaven and earth. This two-mile-long stretch links the two sides of Miyazu bay and features white-sand beaches and almost 8,000 emerald pine trees, encircled by sparkling blue water.
Feeling active? Enjoy a walk or cycle along the path in the centre of the sandbar. However, we think Amanohashidate is best appreciated from one of the viewpoints in the hills surrounding the bay – hop on a cable car up to Kasamatsu Park for spectacular views over the water. To experience the sights like a local, try looking down at the bay in the traditional matanozoki position: turn your back, bend over and marvel at the view from between your legs.
Image by Elisete Shiraishi / Getty Images.
Kumano Nachi Taisha, Wakayama
Kumano Nachi Taisha isn’t just one of the most beautiful Japanese landscapes: it’s also an important cultural and religious site. Part of the iconic Kumano Kodo trail, a historic pilgrimage route, Kumano Nachi Taisha is one of the three famed Shinto shrines. While it was originally entirely Shinto, this shrine now sits next to the Buddhist temple Seiganto-ji, demonstrating the gradual blend between the religions after Buddhism was introduced to Kumano in the sixth century. Wander through the temple buildings and admire the natural scenery before making your way to the Seiganto-ji pagoda, a three-story crimson building that shines against the surrounding lush forest.
The Nachi Taisha shrine and pagoda aren’t the only things that make this one of our favourite Japanese landscapes. Just a short distance from the temple buildings is Nachi Falls, the tallest waterfall in Japan. This picturesque 400ft waterfall is also a symbol of religious significance, and was worshipped even before the Shinto and Buddhist shrines were constructed.
Image by Cristi Croitoru / Getty Images.
Kujuku Islands, Sasebo
Literally translating to ‘99 islands’, Kujukushima is a collection of islands dotted between Sasebo Port and Hirado. Despite its name, the archipelago actually contains 208 islands, with only four inhabited by humans. Many islands are coated in a thick blanket of emerald forests, and the puzzle-piece nature of the islands creates a beautifully distinctive picture from above.
Kujukushima is part of Saikai National Park, and while you can explore the archipelago on a boat tour, there are limits in place to protect the pristine waters and distinctive islands. We’d recommend heading up to Ishidake Observatory instead, where you can take in a stunning 360º view across the islands from the top of Mount Ishidake. If you’re still not convinced, take Hollywood’s word for it: the opening scenes of Tom Cruise’s The Last Samurai were filmed here.
Image by kato / Getty Images.
Amaharashi Coast, Toyama
Cameras at the ready: the Amaharashi Coast is the definition of picture-perfect. Literally, in fact, as it has long inspired artists, writers and poets. Lined with bristling pine trees and powdery beaches, the rugged coastline looks out on the sky-scraping Tateyama Mountain Range. The snowcapped peaks tower dramatically over the shimmering blue water beneath them, creating a contrasting skyline so breathtaking that famed poet Otomo no Yakamochi wrote verses imploring friends to come and witness it.
Amaharashi is beautiful all year round, but summertime brings the perfect conditions for swimming in the bay’s pristine waters. If you’re travelling as a family, you’re in luck: youngsters will love taking a dip in the shallow water and playing in the sand. Once you’ve had swimming fix, sit back on the beach and wait for the setting sun to paint the sky golden.
Image by I Love Photo And Apple. / Getty Images.
Shiretoko Goko Lakes, Hokkaido
Located in Shiretoko National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Shiretoko Goko Lakes are last (but not least) on our list of unmissable Japanese landscapes. Each of the five lakes forms part of a five-point formation, said to resemble the fingerprints of a god. With their electric blue water reflecting the Shiretoko Mountains, you won’t resist snapping a photo or two.
If you’re partial to a wander (with a side of stunning views), you’re in luck. While the lakes are linked mainly by grassy trails, we think the best view is from the elevated wooden path leading to the first lake. This walkway spans just under half a mile and features a number of viewing platforms with breathtaking vistas of the Shiretoko Mountains. Keep your eyes peeled as you walk, too – you might catch sight of a brown bear ambling underneath the wooden beams.
Image by Elico-Gaia.
Written by Emma Begley | Header image by Shun Idota / Unsplash.
