6 Unconventional Places in Japan Most Tourists Miss (Zero Crowds!)

6 Unconventional Places in Japan Most Tourists Miss (Zero Crowds!)

If you’re planning a trip to Japan in 2026, you’ve probably seen the same recommendations as everyone else and now you want something… different. Luckily, Japan has SO much more than the golden route (AKA Tokyo, Kyoto & Osaka) and is FILLED with hidden gems. I’ve travelled to (almost) every prefecture in Japan, lived here for 10 years and have about gazillion recommendations for where to visit to avoid the crowds, but for now, here’s 6 stand out locations that are perfect for slow, sustainable tourism in the authentic Japanese countryside.

00:00 – Why you should skip the golden route
00:17 – Kakunodate Samurai Street: Historic and Stunning
02:37 – Iya Valley: The ultimate nature escape
05:21 – Shiroumadake: Mt Fuji hike alternative
08:32 – Oirase Keiryu Hotel Aomori: Bougie but affordable resort
10:36 – Naritasan Omotesando: Traditional Japan next to the airport
12:15 – Yakushima Island: Princess Mononoke IRL

Check out my previous two videos for even more recommendations:
10 Destinations Japan Wide: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MkibTJmaXj0
10 Destinations from Kyoto & Osaka: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kmiOlUPZNvM&t=2s

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Visiting Japan and want to experience something different? You’ll love my travel guides – Beyond The Tourist Trail, Original and Kyoto Edition. They’re comprehensive e-books written for adventurous travellers filled with hundreds of hidden gems in Japan with full detailed advice on how to visit (even with public transport). Available now on my website: https://geni.us/LH3eP

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