Japan Travel🇯🇵 Best 10 Prefectures You Must-Visit!

Japan Travel🇯🇵 Best 10 Prefectures You Must-Visit!

Hey guys, it’s Mickey. After years of traveling, finally I have visited all 47 prefectures in Japan. So today I’m counting down top 10 must visit prefecture in Japan. All right. [Music] Number 10. Nana. Nana is super famous right up there with Kyoto as one of Japan’s top turbo spots. It actually used to be Japan’s capital about 1,300 years ago, even older than Kyoto. Just like Kyoto, Nar’s packed with amazing temples and shrines. Of course, it’s a popular spot, so you’ll see plenty of tourists. But it’s usually not as crowded as Kyoto, which is a nice bonus. But the coolest thing about Nara, the deer roaring around the city. It’s such a unique site. Hestry, as far as I know, you can only rarely see that kind of thing in N. and Miaima in Hiroshima. Also, not many people talk about it, but the southern part of Nara is super charming, too. There is a giant Buddha surrounded by cherry blossoms and even mountain covered in beautiful sakra trees. I haven’t made videos about these sports yet, but I’ve already finished filming, so I’ll be sharing it with you soon. Number nine, Kagawa. Kagawa is actually the smallest prefecture in all over Japan, but don’t let its size fool you. It’s packed with charm. It’s a super chill, cozy place. And I’m especially crazy about the Shushima, one of the islands in Kagawa. The all the wooden houses and rice fields give of such a nostalgic vibe and beaches and mountains there are absolutely gorgeous. Oh, and my favorite cafe in Japan is actually on Shoshima. You can catch an amazing sunset from there. It’s seriously breathtaking. And of course, we can’t talk about Kagawa without mentioning Udon. Kagura is even nicknamed Udon Prefecture because it has so many Udon spots. Doing an AON restaurant C. There is an absolute blast. Don’t miss out on Liting Garden. One of the most beautiful Japanese gardens and definitely make the hike up to Compasan Shrine. The views from the top are incredible. Number eight, Toyama. Toyama is right next to Ishka Prefecture where the super popular city of Kanazawa is located. Most people skip Toyama and head straight to Kanazawa. But if you are already in Kazawa, you definitely shouldn’t miss Toyama. It’s a beautiful region surrounded by the sea and the massive Tatam mountain range. And you can actually see those towering pigs right from the city. It’s seriously impressive. I haven’t been yet, but one place that’s high on my list is the Tatyama Arupen route. It’s a scenic route through the Japanese arus that you can explore by lowway and bus. And in spring you can even walk between snow walls that are up to 65 ft 20 m tall. Another mustsee is the Kurbe God. Known for its crystal Korean river and dramatic mountain scenery. It’s beautiful in the fresh green of early summer, but the four colors are really amazing. And here is a hidden gem. Gokayama, a traditional mountain village with steep searched roof house. Just like Shiraakawa go in GU. But unlike Shiraakawago, which is often packed with tourists, Gokayama is still super quiet and peaceful. Honestly, I actually prefer Gokayama over Shiraabago. Hands down. Oh, and the seafood robbers. You are going to love this. Toyama is famous for its super fresh seafood. In Taka Okashiki, you can see a crab auction. It’s a really cool experience. Number seven, Hiroshima. Most people know Hiroshima for Itsukushima shrine and atomic bomb dome, but personally I really recommend exploring the eastern side of Hiroshima. It’s full of underrated gems. First up, Onomi. It’s a retroport town built along the hillside, so you get some incredible views. The stories are lined with all the Japanese houses and there are lots of cute cats. The four place has this nostalgic peaceful vibe. If you are visiting Japan during cherry blossom season, Onomichi is an absolute must. Next, we’ve got Tommona, a small fishing town that feels like it’s been frozen in time. It still has original buildings from the Edo period and it moves at a super slow relaxing place. There aren’t many tourists, so it’s perfect if you are looking for experience that timeless Japan feel. Oh, and fun fact, this town actually inspired Stio Jib’s movie Pony. And finally, there is Okunoshima, also known as Rabbit Island. Over 500 wild rabbits live on this island and they are super friendly and so cute. Plus, the nature on the island is so beautiful. So, if you visit to Hiroshima, it’s totally worth the detour. Number six, Wakayama. Wakami is actually my hometown, but I promise that’s not why it made this list. It’s one of the most under directed places in Japan. Since there is no Shinkran sensation in Wakayama, it doesn’t get a ton of tourists, but that just means you get to enjoy its incredible nature. One of the highlights is the Kumano Sanzan, a group of three ancient shrines that are considered some of the most powerful spiritual spots in Japan. You can visit them by train and bus, but many people choose to hike the Kuman no, a world heritage pilgrim mage trail that connects all three. By the way, that super famous waterfall photo you often see on Japan travel guide book. Yep. That’s from Nati Taisha, one of the Kumano Sanzan shrines. Another spiritual site I haven’t been to yet, but I really want to visit is Kasan. It’s one of the most sacred places in Japanese Buddhism and staying overnight at there is special experience. There is also a small fishing town called Thai that’s really unique. It has a long history of wearing and people there still live off that traditional today. There is even a museum and you can try and do meat. So if you are into nature, hiking or spiritual sports, I totally recommend checking out Wakayama. [Music] Number five, Okinawa. Okinawa is a tropical island paradise in the far south of Japan and is known for its beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and super chill vibes. Perfect if you are looking to just relax. Fun fact, Okinawa used to be its own country called the Duku Kingdom up until about 150 years ago. So the culture here is totally unique. It feels really different from the rest of Japan. Most visitors stick to Okinawa’s main island. But if you want even more stunning beaches and a deeper dive into Okinawa’s unique culture, I highly recommend checking out the Yayyama Islands. I’ve visited four of them and each one has its own charm. Ishigaki Island is the main hub of the Yayyama Islands with the airport, the big fairy port, and plenty of restaurants and shops. It’s the perfect base for exploring Yayyama Islands. On Taktoi Island, you can still see traditional Okinawan houses and get a real feel for what old school Okinawa was like. Idiom Island is full of wild untouched nature. If you are into jungles, waterfalls and epic adventure, this is the island for you. And then there is Kohama Island which is super quiet and covered in sugar cane fields. There is not a tone to do but there are a couple of good resort hotels. So it’s great spot to just throw down. There are even more amazing islands in the Okinawa. You’ve got to check it out. Number four, Yamagata. Yamagata is part of Tofur region and it’s place where you can really feel the beautiful of all four seasons along with some incredible historic onsen towns. One of my favorites is Ginzang Onsen, a tiny nostalgic onen village tucked deep in the mountains. It honestly feels like you’ve stepped into a jibu movie. The snow winter scenery is absolutely magical. But because it’s such a small town with limited hotels, make sure to book AI. If you want to stay overnight, then there is Zao, a mountain resort area where you can go skiing in winter or hiking in the summer. One of the coolest things you’ll ever see in the snow monsters. Three completely covered in snow and ice that only appear in winter. Zo is also an on center and personally I really love the quality of the hot spring water there. Another must visit is Yama dea a mountain temple that you reach by climbing over 1,000 stone steps. It’s a bit of a work out but the views from the top are absolutely breathtaking. Even the work up to the top is beautiful and peaceful. So, it’s one of my favorite temples in all over Japan. I visited in May during the fresh green season, but the autumn rib season is also amazing. Yamagat might not be freshy, but it’s the kind of place that leaves a deep impression. If you are looking for quiet, soulful trip into nature and history, this is it. Number three, Kumamoto. Kumamoto is located right in the center of Kyushu. And when I first visited, I was completely blown away by the natural beauty of Mount Asur and the surrounding landscapes. ASU is one of the most unique places in Japan. It’s a double carera and there are actually tons and train lines inside the carera. It’s wild to think that people live and farm on the caldera. Mount is an active volcano and you can get close to the crater. It’s an unforgettable experience. On the north side of the mountain, you’ll find Kurokawa onen. It’s full of charming wooden yokan and has a beautifully unifier roostic atmosphere. Oh, if you are visiting Aso, you should definitely stop by Takatiho in Miaaki too. It’s known as the place where the daties descended to earth in Japanese mythology. So there is really mystical and spiritual vibe there. And don’t miss the takati hog god with its beautiful emerald green water. It’s absolutely worth seeing. [Music] Number two, Tokushima. Tokushima is one of the four prefectures on Shikoku Island. And for I’ve only been to one area in Tokushima Prefecture. But it left such a strong impression on me that I had to include it in this ranking. That place is called the a remote mountain region deep in the heart of Tokushima. It’s a true hidden gem where you can experience untouched wild nature on a whole new level. Japan is about 67% forest. So mountains and barries aren’t exactly rare here. But something about feels different. The valley is incredibly deep. The mountains are dramatic and the river is shockingly clear. There are also some great onsen in the area. So I definitely recommend staying for a couple of nights. By the way, Kot Prefecture just south of Tokushima is also home to some incredibly beautiful rivers. If you are river lover, it’s definitely worth checking out where you are in the area. Number one, Nago. I love Nago so much. I’m seriously thinking about living there. Nago has everything. Nature, history, culture, onsen, and all kinds of outdoor activities. Let’s start with Matsumoto Castle. One of only 12 original castle that survived from before the Edo period. It’s even designated as a national treasure. Then there is Nauku, a historic post town where you can walk nearly 4 kilometers through perfectly preserved period streets. It honestly feels like you’ve stepped back in time. Nago is also home to some of Japan’s tourist mountains. And the nature here is just incredible. One of the most breathtaking places I’ve ever been is Kami Koi, a stunning arane resort where crystal clear rivers, forest, and snow cap pigs all come together in perfect harmony. Hakubra is famous as a ski resort. But even in the green season, it’s absolutely worth visiting. If you are into spiritual sports, check out the Togakushi Shrine. It tip into the forest and the mossy cedar path leading up to it has such a powerful mystical vibe. I really felt the energy there. And in winter, Nago turns into a true wonderground. You’ve got Kamakura monkeys in onen and all kinds of snowy scenes you can only find there. I honestly love this place so much. But there is one thing to keep in mind. Gradually more and more tourists are visiting and places like Naruku Kamiko and Togakushi Shrine can get really crowded. So if you’ve seen peaceful photos online, don’t expect it to be exactly like that unless you go early or even better stay overnight to enjoy the carum after the crowds leave. I still have so many places in Nago I want to visit. So you can definitely expect more Nago contents coming soon. [Music] That’s it. The full ranking. Did you find any places you want to visit? And I want to hear from you. What is your favorite place you have visited in Japan? Let me know in the comments. All right, thanks for watching. Have a nice day. Bye-bye.

00:00 Japan’s TOP 10 Prefectures
00:25 No.10
01:58 No.9
03:27 No.8
05:43 No.7
07:41 No.6
09:41 No.5
12:03 No.4
14:20 No.3
15:55 No.2
17:34 No.1

⭐️NARA
・Nara city
　https://youtu.be/3KGJ-5SzUOg?si=WnuXOd9MHKaropKR

⭐️KAGAWA
・Shodoshima Island (Part1)
　https://youtu.be/TU5Clnvh1CQ?si=cGcUS3xJ9mSdTRSH

・Shodoshima Island (Part2)
　https://youtu.be/LixSmNJRsfA?si=q-1WTaOVBMylrg3e

・Takamastu (Beautiful japanese garden)
　https://youtu.be/4l_ShHhBC-0?si=lfRUZPYWRI7jiDUt

・ Konpirasan Shrine (Mountain shrine with a beautiful view)
　https://youtu.be/aUP9kihtE88?si=T11K0TGDMLxaq_VB

・Takamastu (Udon restaurant)
　https://youtu.be/O0g8rYU36x8?si=TH38jIry4aj8dYDV

⭐️TOYAMA
・Gokayama (Traditional mountain villages)
　https://youtu.be/6rFBYC6xPkQ?si=vVmHYLlYQlaHcz85

・Kurobe Gorge (A trolley trip through a beautiful valley)
　https://youtu.be/oPSxjFG9l5c?si=CU9c5tCVCHVt17pE

・Takaoka (crab auction)
　https://youtu.be/10zLA_4x0tU?si=29jUHsu2eBOO53p-
　
⭐️HIROAHIMA
・Onomichi (Nostalgic Hill Town)
　https://youtu.be/-8FGUJnFOjg?si=tEtCMklGWKgqFh4_

・Okuno Island (Rabbit Island)
　https://youtu.be/JgGdWYbmdWY?si=qVyap5phvBP0Yivj

・Tomonoura (Retro port town)
　https://youtu.be/0l6wlRfgOPs?si=dPC6H_WYMWqKtfcH

・Miyajima (Beautiful Island in the Rain)
　https://youtu.be/evxQqsEKC8o?si=Zwb9qcI2IvzXw-jq

⭐️WAKAYAMA (The videos are old and the picture quality isn’t very good🥲)
・Hongu (Mysterious Onsen Village in the Mountains)
　https://youtu.be/nbznJHI1RB4?si=GWBTrlJZ38IETIxU

・Shirahama (Beautiful beach town)
　https://youtu.be/XiARKWggjGM?si=bS6ccbGtlvwcd33S

・Taiji (Whale fishing village)
　https://youtu.be/n-lxsaQ-czk?si=l0gzQgHqMLFWlfaz

・Nachi (Nachi Falls and Tuna Auction)
　https://youtu.be/CU1oreeXLLY?si=JtOCWvz9IY8cJW0g

・Shingu (The city where God descended)
　https://youtu.be/I8_ANgh-Xbk?si=ShdmsInRkbmn__Q9

⭐️OKINAWA
・Ishigaki Island
　https://youtu.be/ayWGdwbnrwA?si=dQcDTRTAxjLhMrsl

・Ishigaki Island (Food)
　https://youtu.be/_LLs56215gE?si=7xHTSx9wNquz-lTD

・Taketomi Island
　https://youtu.be/NL8CaZI2R_k?si=K6uzHEano7R2h9gK
　

⭐️YAMAGATA
・Yamadera (Beautiful mountain temple)
　https://youtu.be/JdhjAVpkhA8?si=J8xhgPbYc3a2Bk9r

・Ginzan Onsen (Beautiful Onsen Village)
　https://youtu.be/HelyZ1rYoNQ?si=cv8rw_l2vXocOV8J

・Zao (Snow monster)
　https://youtu.be/j3dBj6wsBtM?si=bJKez5Wc9JuBEnk6

⭐️KUMAMOTO
・Aso volcano
　https://youtu.be/cK8TCvDoJhI?si=CVfUjpWLlsbJtrOo

・Kurokawa Onsen
　https://youtu.be/DS4tSi3uj28?si=oTT4MdZ903lVwmD5
　
⭐️TAKACHIHO
・Takachiho town (Part1)
　https://youtu.be/T5coh-ReQ_Q?si=pi_kPx5gwUUY_aje

・Takachiho town (Part2)
　https://youtu.be/_Z8MSydoF5c?si=XgeN18sUODrNYQag
　
⭐️TOKUSHIMA
・Iya (Beautiful valley village)
　https://youtu.be/UeZXKRN0kL4?si=Yge9SJ6UKWkek_qJ

⭐️KOCHI
・Kochi’s Beautiful Rivers Spot
　https://youtu.be/E3q6uyaYE6M?si=jAS9zVusidKWa0uL

・Kochi city
　https://youtu.be/-BrU21j38Ec?si=rrAaqWQ2Y0mBTLlL

⭐️NAGANO (The videos are old and the picture quality isn’t very good🥲)
・Naraijuku (A historic town where buildings from the Edo period remain)
　https://youtu.be/0RV71NYesmM?si=JrnL2It55W4vgueh

・Hakuba (Mountain Observatory)
　https://youtu.be/YnYcERKACqw?si=3HvH5pS8lBIv5Gf4

・Matsumoto city (Castle town)
　https://youtu.be/nboHT-y-UHU?si=3on5Y7sy8uoFYp6i

・Togakushi shrine (Part1)
　https://youtu.be/e9SPkyBNk2g?si=OxZdTxaDZjBx0s2v

・Togakushi shrine (Part2)
　https://youtu.be/e9rKSawJ-Rs?si=XnUjIyyYVy8LwkfU

・Fruit picking
　https://youtu.be/_tCKbbHd0So?si=vRUeMjroOVFaWTek