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Japan consists of many islands, approximately 6852 islands, including the 4 largest islands namely, Honshu, Hokkaido, Shikoku, and Kyushu. If you were given the chance to explore these main islands of the country on a month-long vacation do you know which places to go to? Before you explore these islands, let us give you some highlights on important places to go to and what to expect when you get there.

 

Honshu Island

The largest island or the mainland of Japan in which Tokyo and other popular cities are located. This is the most visited island in Japan. This is one of the largest islands in the world. Mountains, rivers and other active volcanoes including the famous Mount Fuji are located on this island. Please be aware that earthquakes are very common in this part of Japan though.

 

Places to visit

Tokyo, Japan

– or Tokyo Metropolis is one of the busiest places in Japan, a majority of the population lives on this part. It was known as a fishing village in Japan back then. Tokyo is famous for having modern-built architectures. Here you can see the tallest tower in Japan, the Tokyo Skytree Tower and the famous Tokyo Tower that resembles the Eiffel Tower. Tokyo is also famous for having a large number of beautiful gardens and park.

 

Mount Fuji

– Located in Yamanashi Shizuoka Prefecture. This mountain is famous for having a magnificent cone shape view even within the vicinity of the metropolis. This place is believed to be the home of ancestral gods. Every year, a huge number of mountaineers come here to ascend to the summit, not only to enjoy the beautiful scenery but to exercise too.

 

Nikko

– This place is believed to have been the final resting place of the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate. In here you can enjoy exploring the Toshogu Museum, one of the most beautiful historical place in Japan.

 

Hakone

– is remarkable for its National parks and hot springs. It’s more than an hour ride from Tokyo. Tourists can enjoy the scenic view of this park and can bathe with the famous (onsen)hot springs. You can also enjoy riding the famous cable cars around this area to bask on the magnificent view of Japanese mountains and slopes. You may also want to visit the Hakone Museum.

 

 

 

Hokkaido Island

The 2nd largest island in Japan, but with a small population. Well-known for its preserved natural resources. Forests, lakes, hot springs, and some active volcanoes are situated on this island. To get here, you can take an hour worth of air travel from Tokyo to Shin-Chitose Airport. You can also get here via (bullet) train.

Places to visit

 

Daisetsuzan National Park

– the largest park in Hokkaido. This place is famous for hikers. Animals like deer and brown bears can be seen here.

 

Shikotsu-Toya National Park

– a well-known place for its wonderful and beautiful lakes Toya and Shikotsu. This is also a haven for hikers and hot spring lovers.

Shiretoko Peninsula

– one of Japan’s unspoiled natural parks.

 

Sapporo Snow Festival

– one of the most popular festivals in Japan during winter. Millions of visitors are expecting to witness this (matsuri) festival every year.

 

Kyushu Island

The 3rd largest island in Japan. A mountainous island where one active volcano is located- the Mount Aso. Hot springs are also be enjoyed on this island. Very rich and famous in historical events and natural beauty. To get here, you can either ride via airplane, train, bus or boat.

Places to visit

Fukuoka

– one of the busiest city in Kyushu island. Witness the Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival in Fukuoka. The festival is centered on the Kushida Jinja (a Shinto shrine located in Hakata-ku, Fukuoka). It is famous for the Kakiyama (a float that weighs around a ton and is carried by men) This festival is believed to be over 700 years old and attracts up to a million spectators every year.

 

Dazaifu

– where numerous temples and shrines are also located. Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, and Government Office Ruins, and Kyushu National Museum to name a few are among the Kyushu Island’s attractions.

 

Kitakyushu

– is the home of famous attractions like Kawachi Wisteria Garden, Moji Port, Kokura Castle, Toto Museum, Manga Museum, and Spaceworld.

 

Shikoku Island

Is the smallest island in Japan. Well known for its famous pilgrimages. Religious expeditions or pilgrimages are one of the imprint part of Japanese religious belief. This pilgrimage to 88 sacred temples is usually done by foot which could be finished from 30 to 60 days. To get here, you can either ride via airplane, train, bus or boat.

 

Places to visit

Muroto-misaki

– is one of Shikoku’s great cape that extends to the pacific. This is also one of the most sacred places for  pilgrims. The largest lighthouse of Japan is also situated in this area.

 

Ishizuchi-san

– is one of the highest mountain in Japan. Also a place for pilgrims for worshipping. The view from the top of this mountain is really breathtaking.

 

Iya Valley

– a place where the last samurai clan (heike) members and descendants live nowadays. A famous place for mountains and hot springs.

Dōgo Onsen Honkan

– located in Matsuyama. One of the oldest onsen hot spring in Hokkaido. Famed for its 19th century-built public hot spring bathhouse.

 

Are you already sketching an itinerary to visit Japan in 30 days? We all know that this month-long travel will not be enough to explore the wholeness of Japan. But making plans ahead of time will be a lot helpful. Know your priorities, make a list of places you wanted to visit to and make sure to have a safe trip while exploring the land of the rising sun!

 

RCDAYANG / PH