Explore Japan’s Countryside: Travel Guides, Scenic Spots & Cultural Experiences
Escape the city and immerse yourself in Japan’s stunning rural regions. From traditional hot spring towns to hidden valleys and coastal gems, the countryside offers unforgettable cultural and natural experiences. Use this guide to discover regions that match your interests and travel style.
Comprehensive Guides to Japan's Countryside : Exploring Rural Landscapes and Hidden Gems
From the serene rice terraces of Niigata to the historic villages of Gifu, our guides cover Japan's diverse countryside regions. Discover traditional festivals, local crafts, and scenic landscapes that showcase the rich cultural heritage of rural Japan.
Choose Your Favorite Japan’s Countryside Guide from the Articles Below!! (Last updated: June 11 , 2025)
Aesthetic Japan Travel: 5 Scenic Countryside Escapes
Discover Japan’s most aesthetic countryside destinations — from Mt. Fuji’s iconic views to tranquil bamboo groves and fairytale villages. This guide curates five visually stunning spots perfect for photography, nature lovers, and seekers of serene beauty.
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Top 5 Countryside Destinations in Japan (2025)
From the nostalgic charm of Tsumago and Narai-juku to the peaceful lakeside beauty of Hakone and Oshino, this 2025 guide highlights Japan’s most scenic countryside destinations worth exploring.
Explore These Destinations
Hakone & Surroundings
A classic getaway near Tokyo, Hakone offers the perfect mix of nature, culture, and relaxation. Cruise across the scenic Lake Ashi with Mount Fuji in the distance, visit the historic Hakone Shrine with its iconic torii gate on the water, and explore the volcanic landscapes of Owakudani, where steam rises from the earth. Art lovers will enjoy the open-air exhibits at the Hakone Open-Air Museum, while countless hot springs (onsen) provide a soothing retreat after a day of sightseeing.
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Oshino Hidden Village
Step into a peaceful village near Mt. Fuji, famous for its crystal-clear spring water and traditional thatched-roof houses. This area, known as Oshino Hakkai, features eight sacred ponds fed by snowmelt from Mt. Fuji, offering stunning reflections of the mountain on a clear day. Explore the tranquil walking paths lined with local snack stalls, souvenir shops, and picturesque footbridges. You can also visit the Oshino Ninja Village, a fun and family-friendly spot where you can learn about ninja history and try hands-on activities. For those interested in culture and history, the Hannoki Bayashi Shiryokan (Heritage Center) displays traditional tools and daily life artifacts from old Japan. Whether you're after nature, culture, or just a quiet escape with great photo ops, Oshino Hidden Village offers a rich and relaxing experience.
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Top Outdoor Adventures in Japan’s Countryside
Experience the best of rural Japan with five thrilling outdoor adventures. From bungee jumping over breathtaking gorges to hiking Japan’s most iconic mountain, these activities let you connect with the raw beauty of the Japanese countryside. Escape the crowds and discover nature like never before.
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Kamaboko Experience at Suzuhiro in Odawara
Discover the art of making kamaboko, a traditional Japanese fish cake, at Suzuhiro in Odawara. Learn about the history and craftsmanship behind this delicacy through interactive workshops and exhibits. Visitors can try their hand at making their own kamaboko and savor freshly made samples. The village also features a museum, gift shop, and a restaurant serving dishes highlighting kamaboko. It's a unique cultural and culinary experience perfect for food enthusiasts and families alike.
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Explore Scenic Hakone
Discover the best of Hakone’s Japanese countryside with stunning outdoor experiences. Wander through the golden pampas grass fields of Sengokuhara, ride the Hakone Ropeway with panoramic views of Mount Fuji, stroll the historic cedar-lined Old Tokaido Road, and set sail on a pirate ship across Lake Ashi. A perfect adventure into nature, history, and breathtaking landscapes.
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What Was a Sekisyo Checkpoint?
Discover the role of sekisyo checkpoints in Edo-period Japan. Learn how these historic barriers controlled travel, protected the shogunate, and shaped the journeys of samurai, merchants, and commoners along routes like the Tokaido. Explore preserved sites such as Hakone and Arai Sekisyo, and uncover the legacy of these fascinating checkpoints.
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Explore Hakone's Timeless Heritage
Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Hakone. From the sacred Hakone Shrine nestled by the tranquil shores of Lake Ashi, to the ancient pathways of the Old Hakone Road, this journey unveils the spiritual and historical essence of the area. Explore sacred shrines, historical landmarks, and the stories that have shaped Hakone for centuries.
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Sayama Tea & Tokorozawa Aviation Memorial Park & Belluna Dome Model Course
Enjoy a full day in rural Tokyo: pick Sayama tea at Miyanoen Garden, stroll through Tokorozawa Aviation Memorial Park, and watch a baseball game at Belluna Dome. This model course blends countryside charm, hands-on experiences, and Japanese sports culture—all in one trip from Tokyo.
Read Sayama Tea & Belluna Dome GuideTop 3 Countryside Day Trips from Tokyo – Easy Escapes into Nature and Culture
Looking to escape the city without venturing too far? These countryside spots are perfect for a relaxing day trip or overnight stay — all within 1–2 hours from central Tokyo.
1. Oshino Village – Mt. Fuji Views & Fresh Spring Water in Yamanashi
Nestled between lakes and mountains, Oshino Village offers a peaceful setting with traditional thatched-roof homes and clear spring water ponds fed by Mt. Fuji. Great for slow strolls and iconic photo spots.
Oshino Hakkai features eight crystal-clear ponds formed by Mt. Fuji’s snowmelt, surrounded by old-style houses—perfect for tranquil strolls and tasting fresh spring water. For a playful experience, Oshino Ninja Village lets you dress as a ninja, try shuriken throwing, and explore trick houses, making it fun for families and groups. The Shinnashogawa Promenade offers a scenic walking trail along a clear stream lined with flowers and cherry blossoms, ideal for Mt. Fuji reflection photos at sunrise or sunset. To deepen your understanding, the Mt. Fuji World Heritage Center (Oshino Annex) provides interactive exhibits and short films about the geology and culture of Mt. Fuji.
2. Hakone – Hot Springs, Art, and Mountain Scenery in Kanagawa
Hakone is one of Japan’s most beloved resort areas. Ride the ropeway, visit outdoor museums, soak in onsen, and admire views of Fuji across Lake Ashi — all just a short ride from Tokyo. Discover the perfect blend of nature and culture in Hakone and its surroundings: stroll the peaceful shores of Lake Ashi, visit the sacred Hakone Shrine, explore the dramatic volcanic landscapes of Owakudani, and enjoy open-air sculptures at the Hakone Open-Air Museum. This countryside getaway offers hot springs, scenic Mt. Fuji views, and a refreshing escape into Japan’s natural beauty.
3. Sayama & Tokorozawa – Tea Culture, Family Fun, and Local Discoveries in Saitama
West of Tokyo, the Sayama & Tokorozawa area mixes nature and entertainment. Watch a baseball game at Belluna Dome, explore Seibuen Amusement Park’s retro town, or picnic at the vast Aviation Park. Discover a unique day trip from Tokyo: travel from Shinjuku to the lush tea fields of Sayama, experience hands-on tea picking at Miyanoen Garden, and end your day with an exciting baseball game at Belluna Dome. This course blends rural charm, local flavors, and Japanese sports culture—all in one day.
These are just a few highlights! For more hidden countryside destinations near Tokyo and beyond, explore our full Countryside Guide.