As more Canadians plan their travels and venture beyond the Tokyo-Osaka corridor, here’s a roundup of some of Japan’s lesser-known wonders shared by JNTO …
Botanical Gardens
Tottori Prefecture is a unique destination in Japan, featuring the Tottori Hanakairo Flower Park. This park boasts a one-kilometre elevated walkway, eight meters high, offering stunning views of 50 hectares of diverse flora. It combines Western influences with Japanese artistry, making it a standout garden in the country. The park is especially magical during summer nights, with a million twinkling lights showcasing 420 plant species and creating a vibrant and awe-inspiring atmosphere.
Nature Seekers
The Michinoku Coastal Trail, opened in 2019, stretches 900 km along Tohoku’s northeastern coast, covering Aomori and Fukushima Prefectures. Hikers can enjoy stunning views of cliffs, sandy beaches, and quaint fishing villages. The trail also highlights the resilience of local communities, who share inspiring stories of recovery from the devastating earthquake and tsunami nearly 15 years ago.
Tottori Hanakairo Flower Park
Adrenaline Enthusiasts
For an adrenaline rush, white-water rafting in Japan is unmatched. The mountainous terrain causes rivers to surge dramatically, with Minakami in Gunma Prefecture emerging as a premier rafting hub along the Tone River, one of Japan’s top rivers. Combining rafting with canyoning here offers an unforgettable experience.
Quiet Spaces
In Fukui Prefecture, find profound peace at the ancient monastery, Daihonzan Eiheiji. As you ascend the mountain through serene trees, past a pristine flowing creek, an undeniable stillness and tranquillity envelop you. Visitors can participate in zazen meditation, guided by a monk who provides instruction on posture, breath, and focus – a truly immersive spiritual experience.
Hot Spring Therapy
A geothermal wonder in Beppu, Oita Prefecture, is home to 2,900 thermal vents that release 130,000 tons of steam and water daily. While ‘The Hells’ hot springs are a highlight, the local experience includes outdoor foot baths and unique spa treatments. At Kaihin Suna-Yu, professionals bury you in the warm sand, while Hoyo Land offers rejuvenating mud baths, and Kannawa Mushi-Yu invites you to relax on herb-infused beds in a hot stone room.
AIR CANADA UPDATE
For Canadian travellers, access is straightforward, with increased connectivity.
Air Canada currently offers flights to several airports in Japan, including Tokyo (HND and NRT), Osaka (KIX and ITM), and Nagoya (NGO) from Vancouver and Toronto.
Additionally, Air Canada has recently announced that Toronto-based Michelin-starred chef Osaka Hashimoto will oversee a multi-course culinary experience to be enjoyed by Air Canada’s signature class customers on all flights between Canada and Japan.
For more information on these and many other hidden gems across Japan, visit japan.travel/en/ca/ (and click here for more JNTO travel tips plus feedback from two Canadian travel advisors who are big on Japan).
Beppu, Japan
AloJapan.com