Jordy Meow

Jordy Meow

Historic Japanese post town street scene Easy walk
Autumn

Narai: at the Heart of Nakasendo

Nestling in the mountains on the Nakasendo route, the picturesque village of Narai takes you back in time ...

Some crowds
Half day (2–4 hours) to stroll the main street and visit a few historic buildings; full day if combining with other Kiso Valley/Nakasendo spots
Lush tropical coastal paradise view Some hiking
Summer

Ogasawara: Tokyo’s Tropical Islands

The Ogasawara Islands, protected from mass tourism, offer an unforgettable journey to reveal incredible landscapes!

Quiet
Multi-day trip overall (because of the long ferry); allow at least 3–4 days for Chichijima highlights, with a half-day to full-day for a Minamijima boat excursion and/or a Heart Rock hike (with guide).
Onomichi Pagoda Waterfront Cityscape, Japan Some hiking
Hiroshima

Onomichi: the Little Kyoto of Setouchi

Peaceful Onomichi charms tourists with its unusual topography, rich past, and four-legged locals!

Some crowds
Half day for the temple walk + Senko-ji area; full day if adding the Literature Path, Cat Alley, viewpoints, and port stroll. Extra full day if starting the Shimanami Kaido cycling route.
Octagon Tunnel Off the map
Kumamoto

The Mysterious Octagon Tunnel

Concealed in the heart of the Kumamoto mountain range is a mysterious tunnel with a rather unusual shape. Visit this "door to another dimension" ...

Difficulty
Risk
Tranquil ancient forest path, stone staircase Easy walk
Japan

Momiyama Shrine’s Millennial Tree

Not far from Nagayu hot springs is a wonderful hidden shrine, as in a Ghibli movie. Guided tour.

Quiet
2–3 hours (half-day if combining with nearby hot springs or countryside sightseeing)
Primrose Wildflowers Carpet Forest Spring Scene Ethereal
Spring

Senjugahama: Primroses of Nikko

The peaceful beach of Senjugahama, an oasis of fresh greenery, welcomes a colourful display of primroses as spring draws to a close …

Primrose Bloom
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Picturesque Japanese village street, wooden buildings, mountains Gentle
Autumn

Okawachiyama: Pottery Village

The little village of Okawachiyama, in the remote mountains of Saga prefecture, was one of the cradles of Japanese ceramics. Founded by a samurai clan, its manufacturing secrets were well guarded!

Wind Chime Festival
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Moonlit cherry blossom tree in tranquil landscape Luminous
Spring

The Sakura of Komatsunagi: Petals and Legends

Step away for a moment from the springtime cliché of Tokyo's crowded alleys to come and admire this majestic cherry tree. A solitary guardian, perched on a small hill by the banks of the Mao River, in the Awara region (Nagano Prefecture).

Cherry Blossom Peak
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Rishiri Islands Volcanic Majesty: Towering Peaks, Serene Lakes Hard hike
Hokkaido

Rishiri Island

This wild island with its rich and protected fauna and flora is a nature lovers’ paradise. Guided tour available.

Quiet
Full day at minimum; 2–3 days recommended if you want hiking (e.g., Mount Rishiri) and to explore multiple viewpoints/trails.