“We loved our trip to Japan. We want to go back, but we want to do something new. Got any suggestions?”
For a lot of travelers, Japan has transformed from a “once-in-a-lifetime” destination to a “We want to go back!” destination, so these days, we hear this question often. When we started over 15 years ago, we never would have expected such a huge response to our Japan tours, so it makes us extra happy to hear this kind of sentiment.
Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka are still must-see highlights for first-time visitors, but as with many destinations, many of Japan’s best sights are outside of the big cities. Compared to the iconic urban centers, these smaller towns and rural areas provide travelers with fresh perspectives and deeper connections to the country’s rich culture and natural beauty. At the same time, they allow sustainability for local communities dealing with depopulation and often untouched by mass tourism. A win-win for everyone!
Planning a second trip can be overwhelming, even for repeat travelers with experience, so we’ve compiled some of our favorite suggestions to inspire your next journey:
🌸 Hokkaido: Nature’s Tranquil Retreat
Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Being relatively isolated from the rest of the islands, the far north has always been considered the frontier of Japan. Because Hokkaido is relatively untouched by humans, nature thrives in breathtaking and unique ways for each season. In spring, the landscape transforms with vibrant pink moss phlox, especially around the Shibazakura fields. In the summer, the island’s national parks, like Shiretoko are vibrant with flora and fauna with pristine environments where you might spot wildlife such as foxes and deer (thanks to its location in the far north, Hokkaido is cooler than the rest of Japan, so it’s one of the best summer holiday options to escape the heat in Japan!). Fall foliage is beautiful everywhere in the national parks of Hokkaido, and of course, winter features the famous Ice Sculptures of the Sapporo Snow Festival.
To cap off our journeys, the region’s onsens are some of the most famous in the country, each providing unique health benefits and a relaxing end to adventurous days. Our seasonal Hokkaido tours capture the essence of this serene landscape.
🎨 Naoshima: The Art Island
Nestled in the Seto Inland Sea, Naoshima is a unique blend of contemporary art and traditional Japanese culture. The island is dotted with modern art museums and installations, harmoniously integrated into the natural surroundings. In addition to art by famous artists such as Yayoi Kusama, one of the major highlights is the Chichu Art Museum, built mostly underground to preserve the island’s natural beauty. Our West Japan: Hiroshima + Art Island tour offers an immersive experience of this artistic haven.
🌊 Sado Island & Niigata: Cultural Immersion
Given their isolated location on the western side of the Japanese mountains, Niigata and Sado Island retain a completely different feel from other parts of Japan. Dive deep into Japan’s rich cultural tapestry by exploring Sado Island and Niigata Prefecture.
Sado Island, once a place of exile, now offers a unique blend of history, nature, and traditional arts. In Niigata, we can experience the region’s renowned hot springs, taste Japan’s most-prized rice, and savor its exquisite sake.
Our Niigata + Sado Island trips provide an authentic glimpse into Japan’s countryside charm. This route is very rustic, but it’s because of this style that it’s become one of my personal favorites!
Embarking on a repeat trip to Japan is often even better than the first trip. You can uncover hidden gems and deepen your appreciation for the country’s diverse landscapes and cultures. Whether you’re seeking natural beauty, artistic inspiration, or cultural immersion, these destinations offer enriching experiences that go beyond the typical tourist path.
