20 Under-the-Radar Destinations in Japan

Luxury travelers to Japan often stick to well-known destinations: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Niseko for skiing. But there are hidden gems all over the country. High-end hotels and ryokans (Japanese inns) that cater to the domestic market have been built in rural areas and tiny villages—and rarely get international travelers. Here are 20 lesser-known towns, prefectures, and islands in Japan with top-tier accommodations and authentic experiences . 

Atami

This coastal town is known for its beaches in the summer and onsens (hot spring baths) in the winter. It’s home to Atami Kaihourou, a four-room luxury resort with a stunning glass design by renowned architect Kengo Kuma.

Awaji Island

In Japanese mythology, Awaji was believed to be the first island created by the gods. Visitors today can tour the island’s many structures and gardens designed by Kuma and Tadao Ando, another famous Japanese architect. Awaji Hamarikyu, a vintage western-style beachfront resort, is beloved by Japanese families. 

Chiba

This small city is the eponymous capital of Chiba Prefecture, known for its charming canals lined with cute little shops and cafés. Stay in Nipponia Sawara Merchant Town Hotel, a centuries-old merchant’s house.

Dazaifu

Looking for a short trip outside of Fukuoka? Visit the Dazaifu Tenmangu Shinto shrine. Walk around the stunning gardens and grounds, and then stay at Cultia Dazaifu right across the street.

Gotō Islands

These islands off the coast of Kyushu are dotted with dozens of historic small churches built by early Christians fleeing the shogunate. Book a room at the Gotō Retreat Ray for a wellness-focused stay. 

Hamamachi

Onyado Fukuchiyo—one of Japan’s finest sake breweries—has its own fabulous two-bedroom villa here. Don’t skip the sake pairing with your kaiseki dinner.

Izu Peninsula

Ochiairo, a hot-spring inn built in 1874, can be found along a riverbank in this picturesque mountain landscape.

Karuizawa

Known as “The Hamptons of Japan”, Tokyoites spend weekends here soaking in the onsens and hiking through the mountains. High-end accommodations include Hoshinoya Karuizawa, Hiramatsu Karuizawa Miyota and Fufu Karuizawa.

Kirishima

Book your stay at Tenku No Mori, 150-acre mountaintop retreat with just 5 villas in this nature-filled area. Each villa is made of glass and has its own private onsen.

Kinosaki

The main activity in this ultimate onsen town is hot spring-hopping in your yukata (a light weight kimono). Stay at Nishimuraya Honkan.

Kumano

After hiking along the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trails, unwind at the Resort Kumano Club, a 38-room all-inclusive stay with unlimited beer and sake.

Kurashiki

I call this charming town the “Bruges of Japan” for its narrow streets, cute bridges and canals, and world-class art museums. Ryokan Kurashiki is a tiny gem of a ryokan.

Lake Kawaguchiko

Hiking, biking, boating, and wine tasting are some of the popular activities in this resort town. I love staying at either Hoshinoya Fuji or Fufu Kawaguchiko , and waking up with Mount Fuji directly in front of me 

Lake Shikotsu

I visit this lake during the summer to escape the heat and stay at Mizu no Uta, conveniently located near Sapporo’s New Chitose airport.

Shodoshima

The Setouchi Triennale Art Festival is held every three years on this island, but it’s a wonderful destination to visit at any time for its olive trees and soy sauce factories. Shimayado Mari is my preferred ryokan here.

Matsuyama

Setouchi Aonagi—originally designed by Tadao Ando as a private museum—is now a hotel with extraordinary architecture in this castle town that claims the oldest onsen in Japan.

Mount Zaō

Visit this range of volcanic mountains for its exciting views and outdoor activities, then stay in Chikusenso Mt. Zao Onsen Resort and Spa. 

Naruto

The Shikoku Pilgrimage, which includes 88 temples, starts here. Stay at Hotel Ridge, an 11-room luxury hotel with views of Naruto Bridge and Awaji Island.

Uda

Spend a night at Sasayuri-Ann, a 200-year-old thatched-roof villa overlooking tranquil rice terraces in this small town in Nara Prefecture.

Yakushima Island

Book a room at Sankara Hotel & Spa on this island known for its sacred forest of 1,000-year-old sugi cedar trees.

Catherine Heald is a member of Travel + Leisure’s A-List and specializes in trips to Japan and Southeast Asia. You can create a tailor-made itinerary with Heald at [email protected].