The Regions of Japan | A Traveler’s Overview of the Country

Unlike the other areas that we’ll cover here, Hokkaido is somewhere that you need to commit to. Though you technically can get to the city of Hakodate on the Shinkansen and then take trains from there, it’s simply more convenient to fly into whatever part of the prefecture you plan to visit. There are numerous airports all around Hokkaido with regular service from major hubs in Tokyo and Osaka. Though I do love a good train ride, not flying is just silly when it comes to Hokkaido.

In terms of where to go, Sapporo, Niseko, and Otaru are by far the most popular spots in Hokkaido, and for good reason. Sapporo is a major urban center that still manages to feel relaxed and approachable, with great food, easy access to nature, and festivals like the famous snow celebration in February. Niseko, on the other hand, has earned a reputation as a world-class ski destination, drawing snow lovers from all over the globe. While these places are absolutely worth visiting, it’s important to know that they’re just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to what Hokkaido has to offer, so definitely consider some other locales too.

In the center of Hokkaido, you’ll find Furano and Biei, two towns that have become well known for their colorful flower fields in summer, especially lavender. They’re Instagram-famous for good reason, but there’s also a lot more to the area than just a pretty photo op, so be sure to explore while you’re there. Nearby, Asahikawa acts as a convenient base with solid transport connections, a decent zoo, and one of the best ramen scenes in all of Hokkaido. If you’re not keen on going too remote but still want that countryside feel, this part of the island strikes a nice balance.

Heading to the more extreme ends of Hokkaido, you’ve got some truly wild terrain. Up in northern Hokkaido is Wakkanai, Japan’s northernmost city, along with the remote islands of Rishiri and Rebun, which are perfect for hikers and solitude seekers. Then, far out east, there’s the Shiretoko Peninsula, a rugged UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its untouched nature and wildlife. The nearby Kushiro Wetland National Park is another gem, home to Japan’s iconic red-crowned cranes, and lakes like Mashu and Akan offer postcard views without the tourist crowds. This is where Hokkaido really shows off its raw beauty.

One final note before moving on: public transportation in Hokkaido, especially once you’re outside the cities, can be pretty sparse and infrequent. If you’re comfortable driving, getting a rental car is hands-down the best way to explore the region properly. It’ll open up a lot more options and save you from being at the mercy of limited bus schedules or costly taxis. Just be sure to brush up on the rules of the road and double-check whether your international license is accepted.

Thankfully, Tohoku is easy enough to get to, especially with the Tohoku Shinkansen connecting Tokyo Station to the likes of Sendai, Morioka, and Shin-Aomori Station. If you’re planning on exploring the region, the JR East Pass (Tohoku Area) is a no-brainer. For roughly the cost of a one-way ticket from Tokyo Station to Shin-Aomori Station, you get an unbelievable five days of unlimited train travel within the area. It’s an absolute steal if you plan to hit multiple spots in Tohoku.

Being frank, there’s a hell of a lot to see in Tohoku — so much so that covering it all here would be impossible. Starting up north, Aomori is best known for its summer Nebuta Festival, a wild lantern celebration featuring massive illuminated floats. The prefecture is also home to the stunning Oirase Gorge, Lake Towada, and parts of the Hakkoda mountain range. If you’re into seafood, the local tuna and scallops are top-notch, and Aomori apples are considered some of the best in the country.

To the south, Akita is known for its well-preserved samurai town of Kakunodate and the eerie beauty of Lake Tazawa. It’s also where you’ll find the Namahage tradition (locals dressed as ogre-like figures that visit homes during the New Year). Over in Iwate, the dramatic coastline of Sanriku and the Buddhist temples of Hiraizumi offer a nice contrast to the region’s inland serenity. Morioka, the prefectural capital, was even spotlighted by Craig Mod in The New York Times as one of the top places to visit in 2023, and it’s a great base for trying local noodle dishes like wanko soba.

A bit closer to Tokyo as the proverbial crow flies, Yamagata and Fukushima offer even more to explore. Yamagata is famous for its temple mountain Yamadera, the hot spring town of Ginzan Onsen, and fruit-picking in the summer. Fukushima, meanwhile, has great hiking in the Bandai-Asahi National Park, former samurai strongholds like Aizu-Wakamatsu, traditional post towns like Ouchi-juku, and onsen-rich areas. Both prefectures are solid options for travelers who want countryside vibes without venturing too far from the capital.

If you’re going to Tohoku, it’s best done as a three-to-five-day outing using the JR East Pass (Tohoku Area) mentioned above. You’ll want to leave from Tokyo and make your way north, hopping from one highlight to the next before circling back on the final evening. It’s a super efficient way to dip into a lesser-known part of Japan without needing to overthink the logistics. As one of my favorite sections of the country, I cannot more highly recommend Tohoku.

Tokyo itself needs no introduction. As the capital city of Japan, it’s a massive, ever-evolving metropolis that blends the ultramodern with the deeply traditional. You could spend a lifetime exploring just this one city and still uncover new pockets of interest. It’s like an onion, with layer after layer of neighborhoods, subcultures, and hidden gems. From the sleek skyline of Shinjuku to the old-school charm of areas like Kagurazaka or Yanaka, Tokyo offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re into fine dining, anime pilgrimages, obscure museums, or neighborhood izakayas, it’s all here if you know where to look.

Also part of the Kanto region is Kanagawa Prefecture, which includes Japan’s second-largest city, Yokohama. Known for its waterfront parks, modern architecture, and historic Chinatown, it’s an easy and worthwhile day trip from Tokyo (though surprisingly few people visit). Kanagawa is also home to Kamakura, a coastal town full of Buddhist temples, traditional streets, and beachside cafes that has exploded in popularity in recent years. Further inland, you’ll find Hakone, a classic hot spring destination with open-air museums and views of Mt. Fuji on clear days. Other lesser-known but worthy spots include the Miura Peninsula and Enoshima, both of which offer a more laid-back seaside vibe.

Moving on, to the east of Tokyo lies Chiba Prefecture. While it’s often treated as just the home of Narita Airport, there’s a lot more to it if you’re willing to dig a little deeper. For example, Naritasan Shinsho-ji is located just minutes from the airport and is one of the most impressive temple complexes in the region, making it a great place for a final stroll before heading home. Nearby, the town of Sawara preserves its historic atmosphere and offers canal boat rides and classic kura architecture. Beyond that, Chiba has beaches, hiking, and even surfing on the Boso Peninsula, making it far more than just an airport stopover.

Heading north out of Tokyo, Saitama is often passed over by travelers but definitely deserves more attention. The town of Kawagoe is a clear standout, with its well-preserved streets and traditional merchant houses. A little further out, Chichibu is one of my personal favorites, known for its shrines, mountainous landscapes, and vibrant seasonal festivals. Saitama is also home to quirky museums, riverside cycling paths, and a number of easily accessible nature areas. It’s a great option for those who want to get out of the Tokyo bubble without spending hours on a train.

Further into the interior, Gunma Prefecture is a hot spring lover’s paradise. Kusatsu Onsen is regularly ranked as one of Japan’s best, and places like Ikaho Onsen and Minakami also deliver great onsen experiences. In addition to soaking, Gunma offers rugged mountain scenery, including the so-called Three Mountains of Jomo (Mt. Akagi, Mt. Haruna, and Mt. Myogi), which are popular for hiking and scenic drives. The region has long been a go-to for Tokyoites in need of a nature escape, and it remains a solid pick for outdoor activities and traditional ryokan stays with serious atmosphere.

Rounding out Kanto are Tochigi and Ibaraki Prefectures. Tochigi is home to the ever-popular Nikko, where ornate shrines and waterfalls draw both pilgrims and tourists alike. While many do Nikko as a day trip, spending a night allows for a deeper appreciation of the natural and spiritual setting. Ibaraki, often unfairly labeled Japan’s “least attractive” prefecture, actually has a few aces up its sleeve. Mito’s Kairaku-en is one of the country’s top three landscape gardens, and the seasonal flower displays at Hitachi Seaside Park are genuinely stunning. It’s not flashy, but it’s far from boring if you know where to go.

All in all, Kanto is both an entry point and final destination for many international travelers, as — unless you’re flying out of Kansai International Airport — either Narita or Haneda will likely be your exit point. This makes it easy to work Kanto into just about any itinerary. That said, please do yourselves a favor and explore a bit more of the region beyond just Shibuya Crossing and the overcrowded Asakusa. There is so much more to Kanto than just the well-known spots, so consider checking out some of the places I’ve mentioned throughout this piece.

Recently, Chubu has been getting a bit more attention, especially thanks to increased bullet train access, but a lot of people still zip through it on the way to Kyoto without stopping. That’s a missed opportunity. For travelers using a rail pass, there are a lot of easy add-ons between Tokyo and Kyoto that don’t require much effort. From places like Hamamatsu in Shizuoka to the megacity of Nagoya in Aichi, the region offers plenty of worthy detours. If you’ve got a bit of flexibility in your itinerary, exploring more of Chubu is something I highly recommend.

Starting on the Pacific side, Shizuoka Prefecture is most famous for its views of Mt. Fuji, green tea fields, and wasabi farms. The Izu Peninsula is great for coastal hot springs like Atami and Shuzenji Onsen as well as scenic drives. Further west, Hamamatsu City has a surprisingly lively food scene and music culture. Shizuoka also offers hiking, fresh seafood, and a lot of laid-back towns that still feel very local. It’s one of those places that doesn’t always stand out on paper but delivers a great balance of nature and comfort once you’re there.

Next to Shizuoka, Aichi Prefecture is home to Nagoya, Japan’s fourth-largest city. It often gets overlooked, but there’s a lot more to it than just being a Shinkansen stop. Nagoya Castle, Atsuta Jingu, and the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology all give insight into the area’s history and industry. The region is also a food lover’s paradise, especially if you’re into local specialties like miso katsu, hitsumabushi (grilled eel over rice), and tebasaki chicken wings. Outside of Nagoya, smaller towns like Inuyama and Okazaki offer castle towns and river culture that feel more relaxed.

Heading north, Gifu Prefecture brings you into more mountainous terrain. This is where you’ll find Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO-listed village known for its thatched-roof farmhouses, as well as Hida-Takayama, a beautifully preserved town with historic architecture and a charming morning market. Gero Onsen is another highlight and has long been considered one of Japan’s top hot spring resorts. Gifu balances rustic beauty with cultural depth and makes for an ideal stop if you’re heading toward the Sea of Japan side of the country.

Of course, we also cannot forget Nagano. This landlocked prefecture is known for its dramatic alpine landscapes, onsen towns, and traditional post towns from the Nakasendo. In winter, Nagano transforms into a snow sports hub, with places like Hakuba and Nozawa Onsen drawing skiers from around the world. It’s also where you’ll find the famous snow monkeys of Jigokudani and scenic temple towns like Matsumoto, home to one of Japan’s best-preserved castles. Whether you’re hiking in the Japanese Alps or soaking in a secluded hot spring, Nagano delivers that deep-in-the-mountains feel without being too remote.

On the opposite coast, facing the Sea of Japan, things take on a different tone. Niigata Prefecture is known for its rice, sake, and snow — lots of snow. In winter, places like Myoko and Yuzawa draw skiers and snowboarders from around the world, while in summer, the coastal areas offer beautiful beaches and seafood. Niigata City itself is low-key but has great local eats and easy access to Sado Island, which is worth the journey if you’ve got time. It’s a prefecture that often surprises people who give it a chance.

Further west, Toyama Prefecture is a gateway to the Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route, one of the most scenic mountain crossings in Japan. Toyama Bay is also famous for its incredibly fresh seafood, including firefly squid and yellowtail. The city of Toyama itself was even featured in The New York Times as one of the top places to visit. It’s a small but modern city and makes a convenient base for exploring the surrounding nature. If you’re into photography or off-the-beaten-path journeys, this area has a lot of visual payoff for relatively little hassle.

Ishikawa Prefecture is best known for Kanazawa, a cultural hub with a historic samurai district, traditional teahouses, and the beautifully landscaped gardens of Kenroku-en. While Kanazawa gets most of the spotlight, Komatsu City to the southwest is also definitely worth a look, especially for its craft traditions and art museums. The whole area has an old-world feel but is easy to access thanks to the Hokuriku Shinkansen. It’s a great alternative to Kyoto if you want that classical Japan vibe without the tour bus traffic.

Finally, there’s Fukui Prefecture, which doesn’t make many itineraries but really should. Most famously, the Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum is one of the best facilities of its kind in the whole world, and the coastline around Tojinbo offers dramatic sea cliffs and ocean views. There are also hidden temples like Eihei-ji, a serene Zen monastery still in active use today, as well as the largest Buddha statue in all of Japan. Fukui rewards those who are willing to stray a bit from the usual route with unique sights and a slower pace.

Logistically, Chubu is somewhere that you visit en route to places further out west. You can either take the Tokaido Shinkansen and visit the southern side of Honshu, or you can arch up to the northern parts of Chubu and see Kanazawa, Fukui, and more. Thanks to the extension of the Hokuriku Shinkansen to as far as Tsuruga Station, you can even continue down south to Kyoto this way after working your way through the northern parts of Chubu. It’s a great and underappreciated way to explore this part of Japan.

Obviously, Kyoto and Osaka are by far the most famous parts of Kansai, and they honestly don’t need any more digital ink spilled on them. Almost everyone visiting Japan will end up spending some time in one or both cities, and for good reason. That said, be warned: these cities are now insanely crowded, especially during peak seasons. If you’re hoping for a serene moment at a temple or a peaceful walk through a historic district, you’ll need to plan carefully and manage expectations. These places are stunning, but you definitely won’t have them to yourself.

It’s also worth noting, though, that Kyoto and Osaka Prefectures are much larger than the cities of the same name. Kyoto, for instance, is home to spots like Amanohashidate (one of Japan’s three most scenic views), as well as the picturesque fishing village of Ine, where boats are moored directly in front of traditional wooden homes. Down in Osaka, the greater prefecture also has its share of lesser-known charms like Minoo Park, which offers a tranquil forest walk to a waterfall just a short train ride from the city center.

Outside of Kyoto and Osaka, Nara is another easy add-on that’s often done as a day trip. That said, it’s a place that really deserves more time than just a few hours in Nara Park. Beyond the famous deer and Todai-ji, there’s a wealth of history and nature to explore throughout the prefecture. Down south, areas like Asuka and Mt. Yoshino offer ancient burial mounds, cherry blossoms, and walking trails through rural Japan. Nara was Japan’s first permanent capital, and the depth of heritage here goes well beyond what most people see in a rushed visit.

Likewise, Hyogo to the west and Shiga to the north are also excellent additions to a Kansai itinerary. In Hyogo, Kobe is the obvious highlight, with its mix of port city glamor, international flair, and easy access to Mt. Rokko and Arima Onsen. There is also the mighty Himeji Castle nearby, which is arguably Japan’s most iconic and best-preserved feudal fortress. Meanwhile, Shiga is centered around Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest lake, and is home to Hikone Castle, one of the few original castles left standing. These two prefectures are often skipped in favor of Kyoto and Osaka, but they’re both well worth a stop if you have the time.

Further out, Wakayama Prefecture is another area that tends to fly under the radar but shouldn’t. Wakayama City is easy to reach, especially for those flying in or out of Kansai International Airport, and makes for a nice half-day visit if you’ve got time to spare. Further south on the Kii Peninsula is where things get really interesting. This is the home of the sacred Kumano Sanzan, a trio of grand shrines connected by ancient pilgrimage routes. For travelers interested in spirituality, hiking, or simply getting off the beaten path, this part of Kansai delivers in a big way.

Lastly, Mie is a prefecture that is technically part of Kansai, but it’s often easier to access via Nagoya. It’s the birthplace of Japan’s ninja, and also home to some of the best coastal scenery in the country. You’ll also find Ise Jingu, arguably the most important shrine in all of Japan, located here. A trip to this prefecture is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that I cannot more highly recommend. You can even continue on down to Wakayama from Mie via the Nanki Limited Express trains if you want a double dose of sacred shrine power.

Getting to and around Kansai is simultaneously hard and easy. I say this because most travelers are going to find themselves in Kyoto at some point, and from there, everywhere else is just a train ride away. That said, while some attractions like Kobe are easy to add on for anyone continuing west to Hiroshima, others such as Mie Prefecture or the southern sections of Wakayama where Mt. Koya and the Kumano Sanzan are, require a bit more planning. Still, in comparison to other regions, concocting a Kansai itinerary is relatively simple.

As noted, Hiroshima Prefecture is the highlight in Chugoku, but even then, most people only make time for Hiroshima City and perhaps Miyajima. That’s a shame, because the prefecture is incredibly wide and has a lot more to offer. For example, Onomichi is a charming hillside port town with temples, cats, and access to the Shimanami Kaido cycling route. Tomonoura, a quiet harbor town often used in period films, offers a great look at traditional Setouchi life. These places are well worth a visit if you can stretch your trip just a little bit beyond the usual sites.

Before even getting to Hiroshima, Okayama makes for an easy and highly underrated addition. It’s well positioned as a bullet train stop en route to Hiroshima, which makes it a convenient half-day stop for checking out Koraku-en (one of Japan’s top three gardens) and Okayama Castle. That said, it can also be a great base for a multi-day adventure. Known as the “sunshine prefecture” due to its high number of sunny days, Okayama is also a fruit-picking hotspot and offers excellent side trips to places like Kurashiki’s canal district and the rural town of Tsuyama, which is packed with hidden history.

To the west of Hiroshima lies Yamaguchi Prefecture, another destination that’s often overlooked despite being packed with cool stuff. Shimonoseki, at the southwestern tip of Honshu, is famous for fugu (blowfish) and its vibrant fish market. Further north along the coast, you’ll find Hagi, a former castle town with preserved samurai residences and a uniquely laid-back vibe. The coastline in Yamaguchi is rugged and scenic, and the prefecture also has a surprisingly strong collection of historical and spiritual sites if you’re willing to get off the beaten path.

On the far side of the Chugoku Mountains lies Shimane Prefecture. This is a deeply spiritual area known for Izumo Taisha, one of Japan’s oldest and most sacred Shinto shrines. The region has an otherworldly feel to it, with misty lakes, ancient myths, and castle towns like Matsue that feel like they haven’t changed in decades. While getting around can take a bit more effort, the reward is a peaceful and introspective experience that contrasts sharply with Japan’s better-known urban centers.

Last but not least, we can’t forget about Tottori. This is Japan’s least populated prefecture and often treated as a curiosity for its massive sand dunes, which are unlike anything else in the country. But Tottori also offers great hiking, coastal views, and even a quirky manga connection with hometown hero Shigeru Mizuki, creator of GeGeGe no Kitaro. For travelers who want something totally different, this little pocket of the San’in side has a lot more going on than people expect.

Travel to and throughout the Chugoku region really depends on where you want to go. The San’yo side that faces the Seto Inland Sea is easily accessed via Shinkansen, and many travelers following Japan’s so-called “Golden Route” make this journey when coming from Kyoto. Those of you wanting to go to the San’in side, though, are better off flying from Tokyo or Osaka. Just like with Hokkaido, while you can get there by train, you’d have to be pretty crazy to do so.

While Tohoku and other parts of Kansai are slowly starting to see more travelers from abroad, Shikoku is still firmly off the beaten path. It’s a place where traditional culture, nature, and local hospitality are front and center. That slower, more regional pace is exactly what makes it special, though it also means you’ll want to do a bit more planning than you would in Japan’s major hubs. Still, for those willing to go a bit further afield, the rewards are more than worth the effort.

Starting in the northeast, Kagawa is Japan’s smallest prefecture by land area but punches well above its weight. It’s best known for its udon culture (Sanuki udon in particular), and food lovers could easily spend days hopping between legendary noodle shops. The capital, Takamatsu, is home to Ritsurin Garden, one of the most beautifully landscaped gardens in the country. You’ll also find access points here to Shikoku’s many nearby islands, making it a great base for exploring both land and sea.

Next to Kagawa is Ehime Prefecture, which stretches all along Shikoku’s northwestern coast. The capital city of Matsuyama is famous for Dogo Onsen, one of Japan’s oldest hot springs and said to be an inspiration for Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away. Matsuyama Castle also sits atop a hill with great views of the city. Beyond the urban center, Ehime offers scenic cycling along the Shimanami Kaido and peaceful inland towns where time feels like it’s slowed to a crawl.

To the south, Kochi Prefecture is known for its rugged nature and fiercely independent spirit. The coastline here is dramatic, with cliffs, coves, and crystal-clear rivers like the Shimanto, often called Japan’s last unspoiled river. Kochi City is famous for its Sunday Market and as the birthplace of Sakamoto Ryoma, one of the Meiji Restoration’s key figures. If you’re looking to explore deep countryside, go river kayaking, or eat some of the best bonito in the country, this is the place for you.

Finally, on the eastern side of the island, Tokushima connects with Honshu via Hyogo Prefecture’s Awaji Island and the Kobe-Awaji-Naruto Expressway. It’s most famous for the Awa Odori, a massive summer dance festival that draws crowds from across Japan. The whirlpools of Naruto are another popular natural sight, especially if you catch them from a sightseeing boat at peak tide. Inland, you’ll find the remote Iya Valley, a dramatic region of vine bridges, gorges, and misty mountain villages that feel a world away from modern Japan.

In addition to Shikoku itself, there are also many small islands off the coast that are well worth your attention. Most famously, there are the art islands of Naoshima and Teshima, both known for contemporary installations and sleek museums set amid sleepy island life. A bit less known, but equally impressive, is Shodoshima, which offers olive groves, coastal temples, and one of Japan’s quirkiest natural sites, the Kankakei Gorge. These islands add a whole extra layer of depth to a Shikoku trip if you’ve got the time and curiosity to explore.

Getting to Shikoku can be done in one of two ways. For most locals, a quick flight down is the most expedient option. That said, Japanese people tend to travel differently than international visitors. So, if I were you, I’d first head to Chugoku, check out somewhere like Okayama, and then take a limited express train down. Alternatively, there are also plenty of ferries that cross the Seto Inland Sea. For instance, you could catch a ferry from Hyogo to Shodoshima after seeing Himeji Castle, and then go on to visit Takamatsu in Kagawa Prefecture.

At the top of the island is Fukuoka Prefecture, home to the biggest urban center in the region. Fukuoka City is vibrant and dynamic, with a laid-back vibe that makes it one of the most livable cities in Japan. It’s also the birthplace of tonkotsu ramen, and its yatai street food stalls are a must for anyone passing through. Just outside the city, Dazaifu offers a more contemplative experience. Once an important administrative capital during the Heian period (794–1185), it’s now best known for Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine and its atmospheric historical district.

Heading southwest, Saga Prefecture is a paradise for fans of traditional ceramics. Here, tiny rural towns like Arita and Imari are renowned for their porcelain, and many workshops still operate much as they have for generations. Nearby, Nagasaki offers a mix of east and west that you simply won’t find anywhere else in Japan. The city’s layered history as a port open to foreign trade gives it a unique international flavor, and sites like Dejima, Glover Garden, and the Peace Park provide powerful context for Japan’s modern era.

Over on the eastern side of Kyushu, Oita deserves its own spotlight. Most people know it for Beppu, one of Japan’s most famous onsen towns, complete with bubbling hells, steam-filled alleyways, and enough hot springs to soak in for days. While Beppu is the best-known spot in Oita, the rest of the prefecture is equally worth your time. The Kunisaki Peninsula is one of the most spiritual places in all of Japan, dotted with stone Buddhas, forest temples, and ancient pilgrimage routes. Additionally, Usa Jingu also lies here and offers a glimpse into the ancient syncretic roots of Japanese spirituality.

In the center of the island sits Kumamoto, a region of dramatic contrasts. The prefecture is defined by both its rich natural beauty and its enduring traditions. For example, Kumamoto Castle is one of the most impressive reconstructions in Japan, and the nearby Mt. Aso region features one of the largest active volcanoes in the world. Tucked away in the southern reaches, Hitoyoshi-Kuma offers a much slower, off-the-grid experience, with misty valleys, sacred sites, and a deep connection to the legacy of the powerful Sagara clan of samurai lords.

Further down in Miyazaki Prefecture, you’ll find a landscape steeped in myth and legend. Known as the “Land of the Gods,” this area is rich in spiritual symbolism. Takachiho Gorge, with its sheer cliffs and cascading waterfalls, is one of the most iconic natural sights in Japan, and nearby Amano Iwato Shrine plays a central role in Japanese creation myths. The city of Miyazaki itself is a sleeper hit for food lovers, and further south, the Nichinan coast offers dramatic scenery, surfing spots, and an easygoing, subtropical feel.

Finally, there’s Kagoshima Prefecture, once the powerful domain of the Shimazu clan. The capital city, Kagoshima, sits across the bay from the active volcano Sakurajima, which looms large both visually and culturally. The prefecture is also home to the Kirishima mountain range, a collection of volcanic peaks that has long been considered sacred. Whether you’re hiking to a steaming crater or soaking in a remote onsen with views of the mountains, Kagoshima is a place that leaves a strong impression.

By the way, off the southern coast of Kagoshima lies the Satsunan Islands, a long chain of subtropical islands that stretches all the way down toward Okinawa. These islands, which include spots like Amami Oshima, Yakushima, and Tanegashima, feel like an entirely different world. Yakushima, in particular, is famous for its ancient cedar forests and inspired the lush backdrop of Princess Mononoke. Meanwhile, Amami Oshima is starting to gain attention internationally for its beaches, coral reefs, and unique island culture.

As noted, most people fly when visiting Kyushu, and for good reason. That said, parts of the region are interconnected by the Kyushu Shinkansen, which makes overland travel easier than you’d expect. Technically speaking, you could take the train all the way down from Tokyo to Kagoshima, though your butt is bound to hurt after the roughly seven-hour journey. Unless you’re trying to squeeze every last yen out of a Japan Rail Pass or slowly hop your way down from the Kansai or Chugoku regions, you’re probably better off flying in and focusing on a single prefecture.

First up is Okinawa’s main island, home to the capital city of Naha and the majority of the population. This is also where you’ll find many of the US military bases, which add a noticeable American influence to the local culture, cuisine, and infrastructure. The island has its share of beaches and resorts, but it also holds deep cultural sites like Shuri Castle and the Peace Memorial Park. If you’re looking to understand the modern identity of Okinawa, this is the place to start.

To the southwest lies Miyakojima, known for its jaw-dropping beaches, turquoise waters, and scenic bridges connecting the main island to nearby islets. It’s a favorite with honeymooners and divers alike, and while the vibe is relaxed, there’s plenty to see. The island’s coastline is a highlight in itself, especially around Sunayama Beach and Cape Higashi-Hennazaki. If you’re after that classic “tropical escape” feel without leaving Japan, this is where you want to go.

Further out still is Ishigakijima, the hub of the Yaeyama Islands and another rising star among beach lovers. Ishigaki offers a nice balance of nature and culture, with beautiful snorkeling spots like Kabira Bay, a charming town center, and access to wilder nearby islands like Iriomote, which is covered in dense jungle and home to rare wildlife. It’s also a good launch point for anyone interested in exploring more of Okinawa’s southern reaches.

For most travelers, these three options will suffice but for the more adventurous souls out there, there are the far-flung islands like Yonaguni, which sits closer to Taiwan than to mainland Japan. Remote and mysterious, it’s known for its wild horses and the controversial underwater rock formations that some believe to be ruins of a lost civilization. Getting there takes some effort, but if you’re a seasoned traveler chasing the outer edges of Japan, this is literally as far west as it gets.

Seeing as how far Okinawa is from the rest of the country, there’s really no option but to fly. Unless you’re coming in on a cruise or as part of a multi-day ferry from Kyushu, air travel is the only practical way to reach the islands. That said, flights to Naha, Miyako, and Ishigaki are frequent and relatively affordable, making it easier than ever to tack on Okinawa as a sun-soaked final chapter to your Japan journey.