Exploring Japan’s Hidden Gems: Beyond Tokyo and Kyoto

1. Kanazawa: A Cultural Gem

• Top Attractions:
  • Kenrokuen Garden: One of Japan’s top three landscaped gardens, featuring serene ponds and seasonal blooms.
  • Higashi Chaya District: A historic geisha district with traditional wooden houses and teahouses.
  • 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art: A striking blend of modern art and architecture.
• Tips for Visiting:
  • Rent a bike to explore the city efficiently.
  • Try Kanazawa’s gold leaf ice cream, a local delicacy.

2. Takayama: Rural Beauty and Tradition

• Top Attractions:
  • Old Town: Preserved wooden buildings and sake breweries from the Edo era.
  • Shirakawa-go: A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its gassho-zukuri farmhouses.
• Tips for Visiting:
  • Visit during the spring or autumn festivals for colorful floats and parades.
  • Stay overnight in a traditional ryokan for an authentic experience.

3. Yakushima: An Island Paradise

• Top Attractions:
  • Jomon Sugi: A 2,000-year-old cedar tree accessible via hiking trails.
  • Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine: The inspiration for Studio Ghibli’s “Princess Mononoke.”
• Tips for Visiting:
  • Pack rain gear, as Yakushima is one of the wettest places in Japan.
  • Rent a car to explore remote areas of the island.

4. Travel Tips for Exploring Hidden Gems

Accommodation Advice

• Ryokans: Staying in a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) is highly recommended, especially in places like Takayama or Shirakawa-go. Ryokans often include tatami mat rooms, futon bedding, and kaiseki (multi-course) meals.
• Minpaku: In rural areas, you’ll find minpaku, which are family-run guesthouses. These are great for budget travelers and those seeking a more intimate experience.
• Capsule Hotels: Though uncommon in rural areas, capsule hotels can be found in cities like Kanazawa. These are cost-effective and unique accommodation options.
• Yakushima: On Yakushima Island, consider eco-lodges or rental cabins as a base for hiking adventures.

• Reserve early, especially during peak travel seasons like cherry blossom season or autumn foliage.
• Use platforms like Rakuten Travel or Jalan for Japanese accommodation options, or try Airbnb for unique stays.
• If you’re unfamiliar with Japanese customs (e.g., removing shoes indoors or bathing etiquette in onsens), research beforehand to avoid misunderstandings.

Food and Dining Tips

• Kanazawa: Seafood lovers should try Kanazawa’s kaisen-don (seafood rice bowl), featuring fresh fish from the Sea of Japan. Gold leaf, a regional specialty, is incorporated into desserts and even sake.
• Takayama: Takayama is famous for Hida beef, a premium Japanese beef that rivals Kobe beef. Try it grilled, in sukiyaki, or served as sushi. Also, explore the morning markets for locally made pickles and miso paste.
• Yakushima: Yakushima offers tropical flavors, including flying fish sashimi and tankan oranges (a citrus fruit native to the island). Many restaurants also serve dishes made with local vegetables and herbs.

• Always say “itadakimasu” (I humbly receive) before eating and “gochisousama” (thank you for the meal) afterward.
• In ryokans, meals are often included in the stay and served in your room or a communal dining area.
• If dining at small, family-run establishments, some may only accept cash, so carry yen.

Navigating Transportation

• Trains: Japan’s extensive railway system makes it easy to reach cities like Kanazawa and Takayama. The Japan Rail Pass is invaluable for unlimited travel on JR lines, including bullet trains (Shinkansen).
• Buses: Some remote areas, such as Shirakawa-go and Yakushima, are best accessed by buses. Highway buses are budget-friendly, while local buses help you reach smaller towns.
• Rental Cars: Renting a car is often the best option for exploring rural areas and islands. In Yakushima, public transportation is limited, so a car will give you the freedom to explore at your own pace.
• Bicycles: Many smaller cities, such as Kanazawa, offer bike rentals. Cycling is a fun and eco-friendly way to see the sights.

• Google Maps works well for navigating Japan’s transportation network, but apps like Hyperdia can also help with train schedules and routes.
• If you’re renting a car, make sure you have an International Driving Permit (IDP).
• For rural bus routes, check timetables in advance, as services may be infrequent.

Cultural Sensitivity

• Language: English might not be widely spoken in rural areas. Carry a phrasebook or use translation apps like Google Translate or DeepL to bridge communication gaps.
• Onsen Etiquette: Many hidden gems feature hot springs (onsens) as a key attraction. Make sure to follow bathing etiquette, such as washing thoroughly before entering the bath and refraining from wearing swimsuits.
• Photography: Always ask permission before taking photos of people, particularly in traditional areas or at religious sites.
• Local Festivals: Participating in festivals is a great way to immerse yourself in local culture. For example, Takayama’s spring and autumn festivals feature elaborate floats and traditional music. Ensure you follow any guidelines or restrictions during events.

Packing Essentials

• Clothing:
  • Layered clothing is essential, especially in mountainous areas like Takayama or Yakushima, where temperatures can fluctuate.
  • Comfortable hiking shoes are a must for destinations like Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine on Yakushima.
• Technology:
  • Portable Wi-Fi devices or SIM cards for internet access, as connectivity may be limited in remote areas.
  • Power adapters for Japanese outlets (Type A/B).
• Other Essentials:
  • Rain gear for Yakushima, which experiences frequent rainfall.
  • A reusable water bottle, as tap water is safe to drink in Japan.
  • Snacks for long train or bus rides, especially if traveling to rural areas where restaurants might not be readily available.

Final Thoughts on Exploring Japan’s Hidden Gems