Japan may be on nearly everyone’s must-visit list, but here are a few locales on the island even the most avid travelers might not know about:
Shikoku 88
The fourth-largest Japanese island, Shikoku is home to the ancient Shikoku 88 — a must-see for active travelers and religious pilgrimages. The challenging trail is named for the 88 Buddhist temples it connects.
Noto Peninsula
Located on the small edge of sea off Ishikawa Prefecture, The Noto Peninsula offers some of the most ruggedly beautiful scenery in Japan. Picture rock formations lining the wild coastline of this stunning fishing community.
Sacred Mountains at Dewa Sanzan
Over in the Yamagata Prefecture, the sacred mountains of Dewa Sanzan are considered holy in the Japanese Shinto religion. Dewa Sanzan is another religious pilgrimage site with gorgeous mountain peak vistas.
Oki Islands
Made up of more than 180 islands, the Oki Islands are a volcanic archipelago in the Sea of Japan. This locale is so primitive, only four of the 16 are inhabited. Known for its wild beauty, this region boasts interesting history and endlessly beautiful views.
Seto Inland Sea
Separating the Honshū, Shikoku and Kyūshū islands, Seto Inland Sea is another mountain-filled landscape you’re going to want to see. Picture white, sandy beaches and turquoise-blue waters.
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