Uncharted Japanese Isles: Discovering Tranquil Hot Springs and Serene Hikes, Away from Tourist Crowds
Discover these Five Hidden Gems in Japan for a Peaceful, Off-the-Beaten-Path Experience
Japan, with its 6,800 islands, has long been a popular destination for travelers. While Tokyo, Kyoto, and Okinawa's beaches often capture the limelight, lesser-known Japanese islands offer a more tranquil immersion, away from the usual tourist circuits. For those eager to discover Japan off the beaten path, here are five lesser-known island gems to explore.
- Shikinejima: The "Onsen Island" Just a Short Ferry Ride from Tokyo
Located in the Izu archipelago, Shikinejima is a serene volcanic haven, just a few hours by ferry from Tokyo. Known to a select few, it boasts natural hot springs by the sea where guests can bathe for free while enjoying a panoramic ocean view. Its turquoise waters, coastal hiking trails, and tranquil atmosphere serve as a stark contrast to the capital's bustle.
- Okunoshima: The Rabbit Island
Despite gaining attention on social media, Okunoshima remains little visited. Known as the "Rabbit Island," this island in the Seto Inland Sea is home to hundreds of freely roaming rabbits. But the island also offers peaceful hiking trails, an idyllic beach perfect for swimming during summer, and cycling paths that allow visitors to explore the island at their own pace.
- Taketomi: A Traditional Island Frozen in Time
Just a short ferry ride from Ishigaki, Taketomi is a small island in the Yaeyama archipelago where time seems to have stood still. With traditional stone coral houses, white sand alleys, water buffalo carriages, and paradise beaches, Taketomi offers a complete immersion in Okinawa culture. Here, there are no towering hotels or crowds — only the gentle rhythm of island time.
- Aogashima: The Volcanic Island in the Crater
Located south of the Izu archipelago, Aogashima is a mystifying island accessible only by ferry or helicopter (weather permitting). This doubly volcanic island is a breathtaking sight, housing a handful of inhabitants who live in self-sufficiency at the heart of a lush crater surrounded by steep cliffs. Aogashima is a destination for intrepid travelers, with the Tori-no-Tō observatory offering a unique lunar panorama of the island.
- Yakushima: The Island of Ancient Forests
Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Yakushima remains off the beaten path. Famous for its primary forest with ancient cedars, some over 7,000 years old, this mystical setting inspired the film Princess Mononoke by Hayao Miyazaki. Ideal for hiking enthusiasts, nature lovers, and spiritually minded individuals, a must-do on this island is the hike to the Jōmon Sugi, one of the oldest trees in Japan.
Prepare for Your Stay in JapanFor travelers planning a trip to Japan, consider the following articles to help you plan your stay:- Japan: Which island to choose for a trip to the Land of the Rising Sun?- Around Mount Fuji: Ten must-visit sites in Japan- Japan: The must-see sites in Osaka- The 7 Best Cosmetic Brands to Bring Back From Japan
- For a unique blend of tranquility and luxury, the serene homes in Shikinejima's coastal areas provide an ideal base for in-flight preparation or reconnaissance, offering a calming lifestyle away from the urban hustle.
- After exploring the lesser-known Japanese islands, create a seamless transition from travel to home-and-garden lifestyle by introducing aspects of Japan's traditional architecture and cultural artifacts within your personal space, such as traditional stone coral houses from Taketomi or the folk crafts from Okunoshima's islands.
