Japan's Best Kept Secrets: 8 Stunning Destinations Off the Beaten Path
Discover hidden gems in Japan with our guide to 8 stunning offbeat spots. Learn about Japan Visa from UAE and Japan visa fee from Dubai to plan your perfect getaway today.
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This is a land that has its revered traditions living in harmony with modern wonders; but while the streets of Tokyo overwhelm most visitors while the charms of Kyoto bring them back to the ancient world, beyond all these is yet another entirely different Japan: completely untouched, quiet, and breathtaking. These hidden gems give the traveler well beyond the opportunity to peek into a more peaceful, authentic side of culture, nature, and daily life in Japan. From peaceful mountain villages to secret coastal towns, off-the-beaten-path destinations in Japan are eagerly waiting for the trailblazer to discover. The places are ideal for the kind of travelers who prefer to escape the touristy spots; rather they want to see real life and make unforgettable memories.
In such a scenario, the next thing to do for such travelers coming from the UAE is to get a Japan Visa from UAE. The visa is actually easy to secure if all conditions are met. Whether in Dubai or any part of the UAE, one can apply through the Japanese Embassy or authorized travel agent. Moreover, it would also be beneficial to have an awareness of the Japan visa fee from Dubai since the costs do slightly vary based on the type of visa and service provider. But for the chance to investigate the best-kept secrets in Japan, it is really worthwhile. After all that, one will be treated to landscapes and cultural treasures few tourists ever see.
Here are some of Japan's best-kept secrets: 8 Stunning Destinations Off the Beaten Path
1. Shirakawa-go – A Mountain Village Frozen in Time
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Shirakawa-go is tucked away in the highlands of Gifu Prefecture and is well-known for its gassho-zukuri architecture. The gassho-zukuri thatched-roof houses were built for heavy snow-loads and serve as a window into Japan's rural life. Wintertime turns the village into a snowy fairytale, especially during the special light-up events. Shirakawa-go presents serenity and history contrasting the busy cities, with astonishing natural beauty to accompany.
2. Yakushima Island - A Natural Wonderland
Yakushima Island, located in Kagoshima Prefecture, is heaven for any nature lover. It shelters ancient cedar trees, some over 7,000 years old, and green forests that inspired Studio Ghibli's Princess Mononoke. You find hiking trails, waterfalls, and deserted beaches for willing guests. This island lies almost untouched, catering to travelers looking for a strong sense of nature.
3. Kanazawa- The Little Kyoto
Kanazawa is often referred to as Little Kyoto since it has Kenrokuen, one of Japan's most beautiful landscape gardens, a well-preserved samurai quarter, and a rich cultural heritage.Contemporary Art Museum of the 21st Century adds the contemporary element.Unlike Kyoto, it enjoys an absence of big crowds, allowing visitors ample time to explore traditional Japanese culture at ease.
4. Tottori Sand Dunes – Japan's Desert Landscape
Japan does have sand dunes! Located along the Sea of Japan in Tottori Prefecture, these dunes extend over 16 kilometers and feel like a small desert. One can attempt sandboarding, go camel-riding, or just sit atop the dunes and enjoy the ocean view. Nearby, the Sand Museum has stunning sand sculptures crafted by sand artists from around the globe.
5.Kiso Valley and the Nakasendo Trail - A Journey unto the Ancient Times
For the traveling historians who like to walk into history, Kiso Valley features the Nakasendo Trail-a preserved Edo period walking route connecting Kyoto and Tokyo. Magnificent post towns dot this trip, for instance, Magome and Tsumago-to which motor vehicles were historically restricted and wooden inns welcome guests. Journey as good as travelling in Japan's past centuries.
6.Aoshima - The Cat Island
The animal lovers should not miss Aoshima, one of the most famous "cat islands" in Japan. Located in Ehime Prefecture, this island dwarfs human beings because most residents are felines. Despite not having hotels or shops, this island brings unique experiences for a visit in a few hours. A purr-fect getaway for the cat-loving, in a setting of extreme peace.
7.Iya Valley-a Mountain Retreat Hidden Electromagnetically
The Shikoku region's Iya Valley is among the most remote areas in Japan and the Pacific. Enclosed by steep mountains, the area is made up of vine bridges connecting the valleys, while deep gorges crisscross the area. For some, this could be an opportunity to step away from crowds and indulge in activities such as hiking and rafting towards the valley. The old thatched inns or kampo would extend unmeasurable warmth while giving one an insight into untouched village life.
8.Hachijo-jima-a Volcanic Island Retreat
From Tokyo, ferry transportation, or a flight, and you are in Hachijo-jima, one of the Izu Islands. Natural features like volcanic geology, onsen, and ocean activities like diving or snorkeling are well represented in this island's tourism. This island of the subtropical climate is seldom visited by foreign tourists, so it has a peaceful atmosphere compared to more renowned resort areas. With its rugged coastline and star-filled night skies, it's perfect for a quiet island escape.
Conclusion
Hidden from the tourist circles, Japan's undiscovered destinations will uncover the inner soul of the country. Among the many strikingly beautiful places that are not on the list for tourist sites like these eight, culture, nature, and beauty coalesce. They bring the traveler peace, slower rhythms of city life, and the chance to engage locals as they are seldom able to do in large cities. Be it the quiet forests of Yakushima, sand dunes of Tottori, or the islands in between, there are stories to tell in these destinations. For those travelers who are looking for something different than the usual and want that really special something for their tour, these places are best to visit.
Japan should top the list of countries in your next escape from the UAE. Getting a Japan Visa from UAE is the first step towards making this unforgettable trip possible. Know the Japan visa fee from Dubai and prepare your documents ahead of time. When all is set, you'll be unleashed to explore the hidden wonders of Japan, and create memories that would last a lifetime. Skip the crowds and take the less traveled paths, and discover the reasons why Japan's secret destinations are well worth remembering.
