Hidden hotspots: Japan’s local treasures outside Tokyo

Step into Japan’s largest Chinatown, a dazzling labyrinth of color, history, and incredible flavors. Yokohama Chinatown is always brimming with energy from the ornate, vibrant gates to the winding, lively streets. Indulge your senses with the authentic aroma of street food and discover a world of savory dumplings, sweet steamed buns, and regional Chinese cuisine around every bustling corner.

Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse

Housed in a pair of beautifully restored historic dockyard buildings, the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse is a must-visit for lovers of art and unique finds. Browse through boutiques showcasing Japanese craftsmanship, independent designers, and unique gifts you won't find anywhere else. Plan your trip carefully: This iconic waterfront venue hosts a rotating schedule of major seasonal events, from Christmas markets to beer festivals, that draw large crowds and transform the plaza.

Ready to venture outside Yokohama for a magical experience? From early November to April, head to Sagamiko Illumillion, one of Japan’s largest and most dazzling winter lightdisplays. Getting there is part of the journey: Transfer via the JR Chuo Line and then the JR Sagami Line (approx. 90 minutes total). Once you arrive, you’ll be immersed in a brilliant spectacle of millions of LEDs. Beyond the lights, enjoy the thrill of exciting rides and cap off the evening with a warm meal at a quaint cabin or cottage offering delicious food and cozy accommodations.

Gifu

Located in the geographic center of Japan, Gifu is renowned for its well-preserved traditional villages set amidst scenic mountain ranges. Situated among the mountains, Gifu offers a wealth of traditional architectural marvels.

Shirakawa-go

A must-visit here would be Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its thatched-roof farmhouses. In winter, this traditional village transforms into a fairytale-like snow-covered area that is sure to take your breath away.

Takayama Festival

If you’re visiting in spring or autumn, make sure you attend the Takayama Festival. It has ranked as one of Japan's three most beautiful festivals, and is held twice a year: The Spring or Sanno Festival is held in April 14-15 at the southern half of Takayama's old town, while the Autumn or Hachiman Festival is held in Oct. 9-10 at the northern half of the old town.

Attractions include festival floats, some of which feature a karakuri ningyo (mechanical doll) performances.

Monet’s Pond

Another picturesque scene in Gifu is the Namonaki Pond, also known as Monet's Pond. The pond near Nemichi Shrine has clear waters filled with koi fish and water lilies, resembling a Claude Monet painting.

Osaka

Arguably most famous for its incredible food scene, Osaka earned its “The Nation's Kitchen” nickname for its outstanding gastronomical offerings. But besides the food, Osaka also offers a side of excitement with events for niche hobbies and interests.

If your comfort food is a bowl of ramen, Ramen Expo is a must-visit. Held across multiple sessions in November and December, this event gathers ramen masters across Japan. You can slurp your way through dozens of unique, steaming-hot bowls guaranteed to warm you up. Prepare to sample, compare, and discover your new favorite bowl.

Minoh Park

Seeking an easy escape into nature? Minoh Park offers perfectly paved, gentle trails that wind through a lush forest canopy. The destination is the stunning Minoh Waterfall, a powerful cascade that awaits at the end of your serene hike. The absolute best time to visit is in autumn, when the forest transforms into a spectacular backdrop of gold, crimson, and deep orange foliage.

If customizing cars is your passion, the Osaka Auto Messe in February is your pilgrimage. As one of Japan's largest customizing motor shows, it's the ultimate venue to witness the most radical builds in Kansai. Beyond the stunning show floor, you can scour the booths for a massive selection of aftermarket parts, tuning equipment, and bespoke accessories to bring your own car vision to life.

And finally, if you have fur-babies waiting for you back home and you want to spoil them with treats and treasures from Japan, drop by Interpets Osaka. The first day of the event is reserved for business owners, but the succeeding days are open to the public. Here, you'll find an array of pet products that your furry children back home would surely enjoy.

Hokkaido

Japan’s northern island, Hokkaido, is celebrated for its breathtaking natural landscapes, exceptional powder snow, mouthwatering seafood, and rich indigenous traditions. Just a brief flight from Tokyo, it offers an ideal getaway throughout the year.

Furano Ski Resort

Adrenaline seekers will find plenty to excite them at Furano Ski Resort, home to exhilarating vertical drops and challenging terrain that delivers that sought-after powder rush. If you’re a beginner or visiting with family, the dedicated Kita-no-Mine Zone is your spot! Its gentle, wide slopes and welcoming environment make it easy and comfortable to start your snow adventure.

Sapporo Beer Garden & Museum

When visiting Sapporo, pay homage to Japan's brewing heritage at the Sapporo Beer Museum. After touring the facility, opt for a tasting session to sample a variety of brews, or head next door to the Sapporo Beer Garden. This complex features several dining options, including atmospheric beer halls where you can indulge in the famously popular all- you-can-drink beer and all-you-can-eat barbecue.

If your visit falls during the summer months (typically mid-July to early August), the air in Furano becomes irresistibly sweet and thick with the scent of blooming lavender. Take a serene walk through the iconic fields, where vibrant purple carpets stretch across rolling hills for a truly calming and unforgettable visual experience.

Fukuoka

Fukuoka boasts scenic shores, mountain trails, and excellent seafood and ramen, combining nature and top culinary experiences.

Kokura Castle

Begin your trip with a deep dive into Japanese tradition at Kokura Castle, a stunning example of Edo-period architecture. Conveniently located on a prominent plateau in the heart of Kitakyushu City, this magnificent structure offers visitors easy access to explore its grounds and admire its unique design, making it the perfect, accessible starting point for any city tour.

For a charming detour down a more retro route, head to Mojikō Retro Port. This beautifully preserved waterfront area is lined with nostalgic Meiji and Taisho-era architecture, creating a cinematic ambiance. While you wander the historic streets, be sure to indulge in the local specialty: fresh, gourmet seafood.

Kawachi Fujien Wisteria Garden

If you are visiting in the spring, your destination must be the Kawachi Fujien Wisteria Garden. Prepare to be mesmerized as you walk beneath sloping Wisteria Tunnels, where cascading blooms of purple, pink, and white create a fragrant, dreamlike canopy overhead.

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Whether you’re captivated by the snow-draped villages, the buzz of vibrant city festivals, or the flavors of regional cuisine, Japan’s lesser-known destinations invite you to chart your own unique path. With convenient transportation links and an ever-changing lineup of events, these hidden hotspots promise countless reasons to return and discover something new with every visit.

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Editor’s Note: This article was provided by BDO.