Japan is a country with so much to see and do. From walking the ancient streets, to taking in one-of-a-kind views, Japan really has it all. Among our travels, we’ve been fortunate enough to see much of what the country has to offer. Today, we are sharing with you some of our favourite destination we’ve been to. These places are beautiful in their own right, and it would be impossible to rank these views. So instead, we’re just sharing them with you to enjoy also!
Been to these places also? Have another view in mind? Let us know down below!
Ginzan Onsen - Yamagata Prefecture
Ginzan Onsen is a calming hot spring or ‘onsen’ town located in the mountains of Obanazawa, Yamagata Prefecture. Due to the mountainous and geothermal nature of the Yamagata prefecture, hot springs and onsens are quite common, but Ginzan Onsen without a doubt the most popular onsen destination in the prefecture. Ginzan Onsen literally translates to Silver Mountain Hot Spring, taken from the fact that silver was often mined several hundred years ago in the nearby mountains when the town was founded back in the 1400’s.
However, silver is no longer the leading cause of travelers to this picturesque mountain town. Ginzan Onsen is now more famously known for the many hot spring ryokans which line the river which passes through the downtown sector of the town. Many of these ryokans have traditional or historic baths which date back several centuries.
Arakurayama Sengen Park - Yamanashi Prefecture
Arakurayama Sengen Park provides possibly one of the most iconic views in all of Japan. The park is located in the city of Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi Prefecture.
Arakurayama Sengen Park is most known for the view of the Chureito Pagoda at Arakurayama Sengen Shrine, which features Mt.Fuji as a backdrop and is one of the most photographed spots in all of Japan. Just make sure you visit here on a clear day otherwise you might not get a view of fuji at all.
Shirakawa-go - Gifu Prefecture
Shirakawago is a picturesque historic village nestled in the Shogawa River Valley of Gifu Prefecture, Japan, known for its unique gassho-zukuri architecture. These traditional thatched-roof farmhouses, designed to resemble hands in prayer, are built to withstand heavy snowfall and have been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the serene beauty of the village, admire its timeless structures, and learn about the rural lifestyle that has persisted for centuries. Shirakawago is especially enchanting during the winter illumination events when snow blankets the rooftops, creating a magical scene straight out of a fairy tale.
Miyajima - Hiroshima Prefecture
Miyajima, officially known as Itsukushima, is a charming island in Hiroshima Prefecture famed for its iconic floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The torii appears to float during high tide, offering one of Japan’s most photographed views. The island is also home to friendly wild deer, lush hiking trails on Mount Misen, and serene temples like Daisho-in. Visitors can savor local specialties such as fresh oysters and momiji manju (maple-leaf-shaped cakes) while strolling along the quaint Omotesando shopping street. Miyajima’s beauty shifts with the seasons, from cherry blossoms in spring to vibrant autumn foliage, making it a must-visit destination for both cultural and natural wonders.
Owakudani - Yamaguchi Prefecture
Owakudani, located in Hakone, is a volcanic valley renowned for its dramatic geothermal activity and stunning views of Mount Fuji on clear days. Formed from the eruption of Mount Hakone over 3,000 years ago, the area is dotted with steaming vents, bubbling sulfur springs, and rocky landscapes, creating a surreal and otherworldly atmosphere. A popular attraction is the black eggs, or kuro-tamago, boiled in the sulfuric hot springs and believed to add seven years to one’s life when eaten. Visitors can reach Owakudani via the Hakone Ropeway, which offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Mt. Inasayama - Nagasaki Prefecture
Mount Inasayama, located in Nagasaki, is a scenic 333-meter-tall mountain renowned for offering one of Japan’s most stunning night views, often referred to as a “10 million dollar view.” Accessible via a ropeway, car, or a brisk hike, the mountaintop provides a sweeping panorama of Nagasaki city, its sparkling harbor, and the surrounding islands. The observation deck at the summit is especially popular in the evening, as the twinkling lights of the city create a magical atmosphere.
Shirahige Falls - Hokkaido Prefecture
Shirahige Falls, located near Biei in Hokkaido, is a breathtaking natural attraction known for its cascading white streams that resemble a “white beard,” giving the falls their name. The water flows from underground springs, tumbling gracefully over the cliffs into the vivid blue waters of the Biei River below, creating a mesmerizing contrast with the lush surrounding greenery or snow-covered landscape in winter. The nearby Blue Pond, with its ethereal turquoise waters, adds to the allure of the area. Shirahige Falls is easily accessible and offers a tranquil escape, especially when viewed from the nearby bridge that provides an excellent vantage point.
Maruyama Senmaida - Mie Prefecture
Maruyama Senmaida (丸山千枚田) is one of Japan’s most picturesque terraced rice fields, located in Kumano City, Mie Prefecture. The name “Senmaida” translates to “a thousand rice paddies,” and this area indeed boasts over 1,300 small, carefully maintained rice paddies carved into the hillside.
Maruyama Senmaida is believed to be date back to the 1600’s. The terraces are built into the steep slopes of the Maruyama mountains, creating an impressive visual spectacle, especially when viewed from above.
Sakurajima Volcanic Shore Park - Kagoshima Prefecture
Sakurajima Volcanic Shore Park, located on the active volcanic island of Sakurajima in Kagoshima Prefecture, is a captivating destination where visitors can experience the power and beauty of nature up close. The park features the Nagisa Lava Trail, a scenic walking path that winds through rugged lava fields formed during the island’s massive 1914 eruption. Along the trail, you’ll find the Sakurajima Yogan Nagisa Foot Bath, Japan’s longest free public footbath, where you can soak your feet in naturally heated volcanic waters while enjoying views of the ocean and the looming volcano.
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