menu
close
search
ABTA IATA ATOL
close
close
Request Quote
clear
Home | Elegant Traveller | Japan Beyond Tokyo: Where to Visit

Elegant Traveller

Japan Beyond Tokyo: Where to Visit

schedule4 Minute Read

06-Jun-2024 Amy Siwek

Featured Destinations

Japan
Japan Beyond Tokyo: Where to Visit

The best spots beyond the capital of Tokyo

Japan is a country of mystery, intrigue, and contrasting landscapes. The colourful Japanese culture and welcoming locals make it an exceptional location for a luxury holiday, but Tokyo isn't the only breathtaking destination that the country has to offer. In this guide, we take you through some of the inspiring destinations that you should consider visiting in Japan, from the mighty Mount Fuji to Hiroshima and Nagano, we explore it all.

Hakone & Mount Fuji

Mount Fuji in Autumn
Mount Fuji in Autumn
Hakone Shrine
Hakone Shrine
Mount Fuji Reflection on Lake Ashinoko
Mount Fuji Reflection on Lake Ashinoko
keyboard_arrow_right
keyboard_arrow_left
Potentially one of the most iconic natural wonders in Japan, if you're looking for a holiday of a lifetime, then look no further than Mount Fuji. Known for being the country's tallest peak, this mighty stratovolcano is the backdrop to some of the most luxurious hotels in the area.
The local town of Hakone is just a short train ride from Tokyo and is close to Mount Fuji for those who want to enjoy the splendours of the peaks alongside the hustle and bustle of a town. Known for its hot springs, hiking and amazing art museums, you're never going to be short of things to keep you occupied.
The duo behind the blog Sommertage have commented on their time in Hakone: "Nestled at the foot of Mount Fuji is the lovely region of Hakone. Even though it's only a good hour outside of Tokyo, you will be surprised at how stark the contrast is compared to the big city life. Located on the Lake Ashi surrounded by mountainous landscape, the Hakone region is one of Japan's most scenic destinations."
If you're looking for luxury in the heart of Hakone, then you've got two beautiful hotels to choose from. Gora Kadan blends traditional charm with modern and luxurious amenities. Originally a summer getaway for Prince Kaninnomiya Kotohito, this palatial hotel is steeped in history. Alternatively, Hakone Kowakien Tenyu offers a contemporary twist on a traditional Japanese ryokan and offers panoramic views across the sprawling landscape.

Kyoto

Kiyomizu-Dera Temple, Kyoto, Japan
Kiyomizu-Dera Temple, Kyoto
Daigo-ji Temple in autumn, Kyoto
Daigo-ji Temple in autumn
The spiritual heart of Japan lies within Kyoto, a city of tradition, heritage, and charm, where you can experience authentic tea ceremonies or immerse yourself in the beauty of a shrine or temple. The second largest city in Japan, wander the bustling markets, explore the Gion district and see the practising geishas or enjoy the flavours of Michelin-starred eateries.
We have a selection of beautiful and relaxed hotels to choose from in Kyoto, whether you want to enjoy the sensational luxury of the Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto, the riverside Hoshinoya Kyoto, the enchanting Kanamean Nishitomiya or the escape of The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto.
If you're looking for a luxury alternative to Tokyo, then look no further than Kyoto.

Kanazawa and the Ishikawa Prefecture

Kanazawa Castle
Kanazawa Castle
Kenrokuen Garden
Kenrokuen Garden
Higashi Chaya District in Kanazawa
Higashi Chaya District in Kanazawa
keyboard_arrow_right
keyboard_arrow_left
Often referred to as 'Little Kyoto', Kanazawa is the location if you're seeking a dose of culture. Full of temples, museums and some of the very best samurai and geisha districts in Japan, you could endlessly stroll around the quaint streets. If you're looking to get under the skin of the Japanese culture in Kanazawa, then wander the charming centuries-old Kanazawa Castle or immerse yourself in the Edo-period Kenoroku-en Garden, ranked one of the top three in Japan. Ishikawa Prefecture is a short drive from Kanazawa and is known for being the home of the mineral hot springs and unique public bath houses.
If Kanazawa or Ishikawa have enticed you to book a holiday to Japan, then you have a great selection of luxury resorts to choose from; whether it's the Beniya Mukayu or Hotel Nikko Kanazawa, you'll be able to enjoy comfort and style.

Hiroshima

the floating gate of Itsukushima Shrine
The floating gate of Itsukushima Shrine
Hiroshima Skyline
Hiroshima Skyline
A location commonly known for its poignant past but one that shouldn't be overlooked, Hiroshima is a cosmopolitan city surrounded by the imposing Chugoku Mountains. A luxury holiday to Hiroshima will offer sprawling parks, leafy boulevards, bustling shopping streets and ancient shrines not to mention Instagram-worthy photo opportunities.
A wander around the city will offer you a glimpse into the tumultuous past of the city with UNESCO-listed memorials and statues where you can pay your respects. The Sheraton Grand Hiroshima Hotel is ideally located for those of want to enjoy luxury as well as an ideal location.

Ise Shima National Park

Ago Bay
Ago Bay
Ise Grand Shrine
Ise Grand Shrine
Amanemu
Amanemu
keyboard_arrow_right
keyboard_arrow_left
The spiritual heart of Japan and iconic for its rugged coast, Ise Shima National Park is the perfect place to visit if you're looking to explore off the beaten path. The national park is the location of one of the most iconic and spiritual sites in the country, the Ise Grand Shrine which is dedicated to the solar goddess Amaterasu. Head to the south a stay at Amanemu overlooking enchanting Ago Bay, where free divers hunt for pearls and oysters beneath the emerald waters.
Amanemu is nestled on the shores of Ago Bay and surrounded by the forest of the national park. This rustic retreat is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and offers nothing short of perfection.
Japan is a location unlike any other and one that really can't be appreciated until experienced. If you're looking for your next luxury holiday, then Japan is the perfect destination. For more articles and travel inspiration, make sure you explore Elegant Traveller.
Amy  Siwek

Amy Siwek

Marketing Assistant

With a genuine love for all things travel, I love exploring new destinations and discovering something new, gaining a wealth of experience in luxury holidays along the way.

Feeling Inspired?

To book your next luxury holiday, please call our Luxury Travel Specialists on 01244 897 578