I’ve always had a preference for nature over cities, that’s why I’ve made this list of my favorite countryside towns in Japan!
1. Nara
Nara is Japan’s nature capital for beautiful natural forests, ponds, and wild (yet domesticated) deer! These deer have been around for over a thousand years, and their coexistence with human life has made them exceptionally friendly and receptive to Japanese etiquette such as bowing. Outside of Nara’s deer park is a whole world of natural beauty, including the scenic Mt. Yoshino and the tranquil Sarusawa Pond. What makes Nara appealing is how convenient it is to get to, just a short train trip from Kyoto, making it easily accessible from Japan’s major cities.
2. Nagano
Nagano is an absolute winter wonderland and home to Japan’s famous Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park. The forests are truly magical during the snowy season, particularly the hiking trail toward the monkey park, which is abundant in thick snow-capped trees and beautiful shrines along the way. Togakushi is another popular hiking trail in Nagano and home to some of the best ski slopes the prefecture has to offer!
3. Ginzan
Ginzan is the ultimate getaway for relaxation and de-stress. The prefecture is abundant in farmlands and rural scenery, but its real selling point is the onsen village that attracts countless visitors from around the world. Nestled deep in the mountains of rural Yamagata, Ginzan hosts a variety of ryokan (traditional Japanese inns) where you can bathe in the natural hot spring waters of the region. The water is rich in sulfur, which gives off a smell reminiscent of rotten eggs, but the health benefits are well worth it, reducing the body’s inflammation, promoting microcirculation of blood, and exfoliating the skin for a deep cleanse.
4. Mukaijima
Mukaijima is a town you likely haven’t heard of, but one that I lived in for the better part of 3 years. This countryside town is just south of central Kyoto, located between the districts of Fushimi and Uji. A truly scenic region, it is home to vast farmlands and stunning mountainous landscapes. The air is fresh, and there are beautiful walkways along the Uji River and through the rice and spring onion fields. Mukaijima is a rather quiet town, though it is not far from busy landmarks such as Otesuji Shopping Street and the big Momoyama Castle!
5. Niigata
To add another winter wonderland town to the list, Niigata must be mentioned for its unbeatable snowy mountain views and thrilling ski slopes! While the town itself is a nice, quiet escape from Japan’s overcrowded tourist areas, Niigata still attracts plenty of visitors to the GALA Yuzawa Ski Resort. Slopes upon slopes of pure white snow and a myriad of dark forest trees to contrast, you’d think the photo above was old school black and white! I assure you, it is a color photograph, but there’s simply no denying the incredible transformation of aesthetics when Niigata enters winter season!
To learn more about life in Japan, check out my book: The Japanese Pursuit of Perfection. This book features my most profound observations of Japanese culture and society as a foreign resident. Available in e-book, paperback, and hardcover. Grab your copy today!