Japan

Japan

Stunning red azalea forest oasis Vibrant
Autumn

Kinchakuda’s Spider Lilies

For a few days in early autumn, a sea of scarlet-red flowers stretches as far as the eye can see. Welcome to Kinchakuda Park!

Spider Lily Peak
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Cherry blossom bridge, Miyagawa River, Japan Easy walk
Gifu

Among the Groves of Takayama

I had the chance to live in Takayama for three weeks. So, of course, I can share my experience with you.

Some crowds
Half day for the old town (Sanmachi) and Miyagawa River stroll; 1–2 days if using Takayama as a base for nearby trips (e.g., Shirakawa-go, Okuhida, Gero, or the Nakasendo towns like Tsumago/Magome).
Scenic Wooden Dock on Tranquil Mountain Lake, Japan Easy walk
Okayama

Manabe-shima: Florian Chavouet’s Island

Manabe-shima, an original little island in the heart of Seto Inland Sea, is also known for its gangs of cats!

Quiet
Full day (or overnight if you want a slower island walk and photo time)
Iconic red Daruma dolls, symbols of perseverance. Easy walk
Osaka

Katsuō-ji: Temple of the Daruma

Not far from Osaka, in the heart of Mino forest, is a place reputed to grant all wishes. Discover the Temple of the Daruma …

Busy
Half day (about 3–5 hours including travel from central Osaka); allow longer if visiting as part of a Kansai/ Saigoku pilgrimage day
Scenic coastal hiking trail on Hachijojima volcanic island Some hiking
Izu Islands

Hachijo-jima: Island of Fallen Samurai

Hachijo-jima, though lying in the Pacific Ocean over 280 km from Tokyo, belongs to the Japanese capital. Visit this land redolent with history …

Quiet
Full day for main highlights; ideally 1–2 nights to hike Mount Hachijo-Fuji and visit hot springs without rushing.
Coastal Serenity: Ouo Shrines Iconic Floating Torii Gates Serene
Kyushu

Floating Torii of Ōuo Shrine

Come and discover the submerged torii of the "big fish shrine" and the legend of the corrupt official.

Lantern Festival
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Weathered Urban Alleys Industrial Remnants Easy walk
Autumn

In the Maze of Kinkotsu Meguri

Stroll through this district of sprawling alleyways ... at your own risk!

Quiet
2–3 hours (up to half day if you want to wander slowly and take photos)
Overgrown Abandoned Smallpox Isolation Ward Sanctuary Haunting
Chubu

Abandoned Smallpox Isolation Ward

Visit to an abandoned hospital for tuberculosis patients, cited as classic Japanese urbex.

Difficulty
Risk
Coastal medieval castle aerial view Off the map
Kochi

Château Sampo: A Medieval Castle in Japan ?

This mysterious Spanish-insired medieval castle is thought to be haunted ...

Difficulty
Risk