Beyond its cities, Japan is crammed with elemental drama: pristine forests and snowy peaks, crater lakes and remote hot springs.
In this online panel discussion, our panel of experts discuss the adventures, culture, food and history to be found in rural Japan. Moderated by a member of our National Geographic Traveller team, the conversation explores how visitors can go beyond the classic ‘golden route’ and see how easy it is to spend a few days in the incredibly beautiful and wild Japanese countryside. We also focus on the extraordinary area of Tohoku, in the northeast of Japan.
Thrill-seekers can try hiking and biking around volcanoes to witness smoking summits and ancient lava flows, not to mention canoeing across lakes or hitting the slopes at ski resorts.
If you love exploring culture and history on your travels, then there’s plenty to discover in Tohoku — we’ll have loads of handy hints and tips on how to find the very best the region has to offer. Whether it’s experiencing the delights of the Aomori Snow Light Festival and exploring the ancient shrines and temples of Iwate, or seeing the sights in cosmopolitan Sendai or learning the feudal history of Hiraizumi, there’s so much to find out from our experts.
Japan offers countless options for those who crave a wellness aspect to their getaway, whether that’s forest bathing in Towada-Hachimantai National Park, admiring the cherry blossom in Aomori’s stunning Hirosaki Park, or relaxing in the hot spring waters of Sukayu Onsen.
Just 90 minutes on the bullet train from the capital brings you to another world altogether. This part of Japan has experienced significant regeneration following an earthquake a decade ago, and is just waiting to be discovered by travellers. We’ll share advice for planning inspiring itineraries, and help immerse you in the beauty and atmosphere of rural Japan from home.
Originally recorded on Tuesday 23 March 2021.
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