Shrines, museums, parks, and the spots in between, with the access details worked out.
Japan's highest peak and a UNESCO-designated sacred volcano, accessible to climbers during the official season from July to September.
A Buddhist temple in Yamaguchi featuring two national treasure halls from the Kamakura period, including one built in 1320.
Shimonoseki · YamaguchiAn open-air film set on Shodoshima island that preserves the world of a beloved literary and cinematic masterpiece set in prewar Japan.
Shodoshima · KagawaA small Zen Buddhist temple built in 1697 in Takasaki, hometown of the traditional Daruma doll, known for its particularly lucky talismans.
Takasaki · GunmaA historical park built around the ruins of a 16th-century fortress, featuring reconstructed architecture and gardens with panoramic city views.
Shinjo · YamagataA Buddhist temple in Kamakura housing the Great Buddha, a monumental copper statue of Amida Buddha cast in the 13th century.
Kamakura · KanagawaA picturesque 19th-century canal in Hokkaido lined with historic warehouses and known for its atmospheric winter and spring illuminations.
Otaru · HokkaidoA museum preserving the tradition of Tango Futamata Paper, a handmade Japanese washi used in temple and shrine restoration.
Fukuchiyama · KyotoA wildlife park in Shirahama featuring diverse animal experiences, though its longtime giant pandas departed in June 2025.
Shirahama · WakayamaA museum in Sanrio founder Tsuji Shintaro's hometown dedicated to the history and legacy of the beloved character brand.
Kai · YamanashiA wooden replica of a 14th-century castle built in 1985 that now serves as a museum displaying artifacts and historical information.
Aya · MiyazakiA performing arts venue designed to preserve traditional culture while fostering modern performances, featuring a 400-seat stage.
Nanto · ToyamaOne of Japan's three great gardens, featuring an artificial pond symbolizing the sea and developed by the Maeda clan over two centuries.
Kanazawa · IshikawaA highly-ranked Shinto shrine in Kyoto built in 1895 to commemorate the city's 1100th anniversary and dedicated to Emperor Kanmu.
KyotoAn ancient burial mound from the late 4th century and the oldest known tumulus in the Ōmi region, now a public archaeological park.
Otsu · ShigaDragon Quest Island offers a dynamic outdoor RPG experience where participants assemble parties and select character classes to adventure through the enchanting Dragon Quest universe.
Awaji · HyogoYamagata Zao Onsen Ski Resort offers slopes for all levels and a long winter season, famous for its rare snow-covered 'juhyo' formations and access to hot springs.
YamagataTsuzawa Andon Museum displays lantern floats in a permanent exhibition and regularly hosts lantern painting activities for visitor participation.
Oyabe · Toyama
