Have you ever dreamed of journeying through Japan’s scenic locales, iconic shrines, villages, and forests? Then take a road trip across some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world!
From snow-capped mountains to lush green plains, there’s always something magical about Japan’s countryside. And it’s not just the scenery that will take your breath away; many of the country’s traditional villages are still relatively untouched and offer unique insights into how Japanese locals lived centuries ago.
Here are some of the highlights you can experience along a road trip through the Land of the Rising Sun:
Tokyo
Japan’s capital city is a must-visit for travelers.
Immerse yourself in its bright neon lights and non-stop energy before heading north to explore rural areas like Takayama and Gifu Prefecture. As you drive up, take in the stunning views of Mount Fuji and visit one of the old shogun cities, such as Nikko.
Takayama
Takayama is famed for its astoundingly preserved old town with Edo-period buildings lining its narrow streets. Visitors get an insight into what life was like during this era when merchants gathered to trade their wares at the vibrant markets.
Don’t miss out on traversing the nearby Shirakawa-go Village—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—where traditional gassho-zukuri houses dot the landscape under clusters of tall cedar trees.
Hiroshima and Miyajima Island
Grab your camera and immortalize the mountain views as you make your way to Hiroshima City, where you can explore not only Peace Park but also be astounded by the beautiful Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island. This elegant structure appears to float on water at high tide!
And your journey will be complete with traditional Japanese cuisine such as okonomiyaki or oysters harvested from nearby bays.
All in all, a road trip around Japan offers guests a fantastic mix of culture, tradition, artistry, nature, and culinary delights, all within easy reach from each destination. There’s no better way to admire all this incredible country has to offer than to tour its iconic scenery and traditional villages!