Off-the-Beaten-Path: Central Japan
One common misconception about me is that I am extroverted and enjoy being surrounded by people. Over the years, I have learned how to effectively communicate and be outwardly comfortable in groups of people. Yet, in reality, I am quite introverted and require time away from people to recharge my social battery. Furthermore, although I love travel, I sometimes do not enjoy traveling to incredibly crowded places.
Currently, over-tourism in certain parts of Japan is becoming a significant issue. Some people believe that keeping quieter locations a secret is the best way to prevent them from becoming overcrowded as well. Even so, I feel it is important to promote these spots to people who might find them interesting. By doing so, it might lessen the burden on other areas without overcrowding the new areas. Additionally, many of these smaller areas either benefit from or actively seek tourism to boost their local economies. Obviously, if I know that they cannot handle an influx of tourists and customers, I will not share them. But generally, I enjoy highlighting what Japan has to offer beyond the major cities and overly publicized spots.
While summer is not the busiest travel season in Japan due to the heat, some places can still attract large crowds. Many people return to their hometowns for Obon and other summer holidays, and tourists from abroad flock to the country to enjoy the many summer activities. Summer festivals are held nationwide, drawing even more crowds. Understandably, visitors cannot easily avoid crowds for the entirety travel unless they plan to visit a remote rural village for the duration of the trip. Nevertheless, there are still ways to find some peace and seek out areas that are a little less crowded. I compiled a list of destinations in central Japan where visitors can escape the masses and recharge their energy in any season, but I particularly like these locations in the summer.
When exploring central Japan, you can balance your itinerary between popular cities and peaceful destinations. There are numerous spots that tend to be less crowded than other destinations. These areas may not appeal to every traveler for various reasons. Some are challenging to reach via public transportation, and others have limited to no English or foreign language support. Nevertheless, these places offer a perfect escape from the major cities, allowing visitors to experience traditional Japanese culture in a more tranquil setting. Having a car significantly enhances the ability to explore these hidden gems. However, many of these smaller cities can still be reached by train.
Destinations in this Blog:
1. Gujo-Hachiman, Gifu Prefecture
Except for weekends in late July and August, Gujo-Hachiman happens to be relatively uncrowded. August is a peak time due to the famous Bon Odori dancing, but the town offers plenty of attractions year-round.
First, the local restaurants and cafes serve delicious food, including Hida beef, and provide interesting experiences. The area is also renowned for its plastic food replicas, which are ubiquitous in Japan. Visitors can even join workshops to create their own replicas. Additionally, the town's castle and historic sites provide a fascinating glimpse into the past. The surrounding river and mountains offer stunning natural beauty, perfect for a relaxing escape. I personally enjoy grabbing a coffee and sitting by the river to unwind.
When visiting Gujo-Hachiman, I recommend trying one of the local noodle shops or seeking out hoba miso. Don't miss the opportunity to sample some of the street food and snacks, too!
2. Nakatsugawa, Gifu Prefecture
Nakatsugawa sees a surge in popularity during the fall, primarily for the chestnut sweets and beautiful autumn leaves. For the rest of the year, however, it remains a peaceful destination. Historically significant as a key city on the Nakasendo Trail, Nakatsugawa boasts many sites that can still be visit today.
If history does not interest you, the area's stunning natural landscapes—including mountains, forests, rivers, and gorges—certainly might. Just a short distance from downtown, you can see the Enakyo Bridge and Tsukechi Gorge. Although I am not an avid hiker, I found Tsukechi Gorge to be one of the most beautiful hikes I have experienced. Be prepared for numerous suspension bridges along the trail, which add a touch of fun to the hike.
3. Tajimi, Gifu Prefecture
Tajimi is renowned for its ceramic production, local onsen, and delicious soba. The city's attractions are somewhat spread out, so exploring multiple locations may take a few hours or a full day. Alternatively, visitors can simply enjoy a relaxing visit to an onsen and the main downtown area to shop for some locally made goods or antiques.
Some of the most popular spots in and around Tajimi include the Ceramic Tile Museum, Kokeizan Eihoji Temple, Ceramic Village, and the various galleries scattered throughout downtown. When visiting, be sure to try a local soba shop or café; the food is unlikely to disappoint.
4. Kamo and Minokamo, Gifu Prefecture
Located near Nagoya, Kamo and Minokamo offer a serene escape for those seeking peaceful hikes and cultural exploration. Goho Falls stands out as a favorite hiking spot in the area. The trail takes about an hour to complete, winding through lush green scenery with many spots to rest and soak in the views. While the area may see some crowds during the summer for barbecues, the hiking trail itself is typically uncrowded.
In Minokamo, visitors can explore numerous traditional restaurants, tea shops, and historic sites. I highly recommend visiting the temples, participating in a craft workshop, or sampling the local foods. Moreover, the forest hikes in the area are renowned for their restorative qualities, offering a therapeutic experience for those who traverse their paths.
5. Toyokawa, Aichi Prefecture
While Fushimi Inari Taisha may be the most well-known Inari shrine, one of my personal favorites is located in Toyokawa. Toyokawa Inari is considered one of the "big three" Inari shrines but also doubles as a Buddhist temple. Not only is the temple dedicated to Toyokawa Dakinishinten, but people also come to worship Inari (the fox god of rice, fertility, and harvest).
Throughout the grounds, there are many sights to be seen including an ornate main temple, thousands of fox statues, and a beautiful garden. After strolling around the temple, be sure to sample the local delicacies at the nearby food shops.
For those interested in outdoor activities, there are many hiking trails near the shrine. If hiking is not your cup of tea, consider visiting the nearby cities of Okazaki or Hamamatsu for alternative activities.
6. Hamamatsu, Shizuoka Prefecture
If you have traveled on the Tokaido Shinkansen line, you may have heard an announcement for Hamamatsu. Although it may not be a prominent stop on most travel itineraries, it has plenty to offer for those who venture off the beaten path.
First and foremost, the culinary scene in Hamamatsu is exceptional. Whether you are craving traditional Japanese foods, fresh seafood, or even American dishes, you will find it here. For example, the Smoke Club Texas BBQ serves up some of the best barbecue outside of the US. Additionally, there are options for seafood, craft beer, unagi (eel), and more.
Aside from its food choices, Hamamatsu boasts several points of interest. Visitors can explore Hamamatsu Castle, Rygashido Caves, Nakatajima Sand Dunes, the Museum of Musical Instruments, and various temples and shrines.
While Hamamatsu is undoubtedly worth a visit, I recommend staying in one of the nearby onsen towns or Shizuoka overnight. Accommodations in Hamamatsu may not always meet expectations of travelers.
7. Katsuyama, Fukui Prefecture
Of all the places I have explored in Fukui, Katsuyama might be my favorite. This town offers a blend of cultural sites and—my personal favorite—dinosaurs! Fukui is home to one of the largest paleontology dig sites in Japan and the Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum. Whether you are a dinosaur enthusiast or a kid, this museum is a must-visit. Outside, there is even a dinosaur-themed park. It looked so cool that even I wanted to check it out!
Near the museum, you can find other fascinating attractions. Seidaiji, a Buddhist temple, houses the Echizen Daibutsu, a striking Buddha statue surrounded by over a thousand of smaller statues. I was taken aback upon entering the temple as I gazed at the immense scale. Built in 1980s, it lacks the centuries-old history of other large Buddhas. Nevertheless, the temple is truly awe-inspiring. Not far away, the moss-covered Heisen-ji Hakusan Shrine, formerly a temple, offers a serene environment perfect for meditation and nature appreciation.
After exploring these locations, enjoy some local foods in Katsuyama. Try soba noodles paired with grated "spicy" Fukui daikon or a bowl of sauce katsudon, which is fried pork cutlet dipped in Japanese sauce and served over rice.
For those wishing to stay over night, there are a few small ryokan and other accommodations available in the area.
8. Omihachiman, Shiga Prefecture
Omihachiman's historical significance stems from its location along the Tosando Trail (later the Nakasendo Trail) and its association with Azuchi Castle. Following the castle's fall, the city became as a bustling hub for merchants.
One of the town's distinctive features is the canal that runs through its historic district. Visitors can leisurely stroll alongside it or opt for a boat ride to enjoy ambiance. The canal area is dotted with quaint shops and nearby visitors can also find merchant houses that are now museums, offering a glimpse into Omihachiman's past.
I highly recommend exploring the merchant houses, museums, and Himure Hachimangu shrine while in Omihachiman. Additionally, a quick Google search will reveal several other nearby shrines, such as Hyakusai-ji in Higashiomi. After immersing yourself in Omihachiman's history, consider going to nearby destinations like Otsu, Nagahama, or Hikone to learn more about Japan's vibrant history.
9. Toba, Mie Prefecture
Toba, located on the coast in Mie Prefecture, is famous for its rich history of fishing and pearl diving. At Mikimoto Pearl Island, you can explore the museum and gift shop and then, watch Ama divers collect pearls in the traditional way. Ama divers collect pearls and seafood by free diving with no scuba gear or suit. Moreover, the majority are women who have trained since childhood.
Nearby, the Toba Aquarium houses many aquatic animals in natural environments and is famous for being the only aquarium in Asia with a dugong. After experiencing the marine life, you can visit the local fisherman's museum, enjoy the scenic views, explore nearby islands, or stop by the iconic Wedded Rocks. Other options include visiting Ise Shrine or traveling further along the coast.
10. Toyama, Toyama Prefecture
While Toyama may not be on the radar of many tourists, particularly those from the US or certain parts of Europe, it serves as an excellent hub for exploring the beauty of Toyama and Ishikawa Prefectures.
Despite its rural setting, Toyama is home to diverse attractions. History lovers will appreciate its rich cultural heritage, while culinary adventurers can enjoy outstanding local restaurants, beer, and sake. The city also offers a fun nightlife scene and easy access to nature. In the morning, visitors can travel to the mountains and be on the beach or soaking in an onsen by the afternoon.
Toyama is known for its fresh seafood, especially shiroebi and sashimi. Diners must be prepared for the regional preference for sweet soy sauce, which may surprise some. Other cultural differences can be seen in the architecture, dialect, and museums.
From Toyama, it is convenient to venture out to nearby destinations such as the Noto Peninsula, Kanazawa, Matsumoto, and other central Japan areas, making it an ideal base for exploration.
While tourism undoubtedly benefits local economies, the rise of over-tourism has highlighted significant challenges, particularly in recent times. Exploring other destinations not only provides memorable experiences but also helps alleviate the strain on popular tourist hotspots. While iconic sites like Kiyomizudera attract visitors, Japan is home numerous hidden gems waiting to be explored. Having unique experiences, learning about culture, and connecting with locals are my favorite aspects about traveling through anywhere. Some travelers may even seek less crowded destinations for a variety of reasons, ranging from a desire for peace to a preference for authentic cultural experiences.
This is not to say that major tourist destinations should be completely avoided. Many of these sites are indeed breathtaking and live up to their reputation. It is crucial to approach these places with respect, follow local laws, and try to avoid being a problematic tourist. Also, simply recognize that there is an abundance of other remarkable spots to explore too.
Admittedly, rural areas may pose challenges in terms of accessibility and language support. Nevertheless, modern technology provides us with tools for research and communication, empowering us to navigate and appreciate these lesser-traveled regions like never before.
Where do you want to explore in Japan?
