Have your JR Pass in hand? You’ll have to strike these locations off your Japan to-go list before you deem yourself a true voyager of Japan, the Land of the Rising Sun!
1. Itsukushima Shrine, Hiroshima
Take the opportunity to walk to this Torii gate when the tides are low. The Itsukushima Shrine is built over waters, giving an ethereal illusion that it is floating in the sea. After sunrise, the shrine and the Torii gate are illuminated, providing the perfect backdrop for photos.
2. Seiganto-ji, Nachi
With the longest waterfall in Japan by its side, the Seiganto-ji Temple is a culturally significant site. It is one of the last few remaining shrine temples that has its history steeped in Buddhism and Shinto (and its separation). Nearby, the three-storied pagoda offers clear views of the Nachi Falls.
3. Ghibli Museum, Tokyo
Fans of this renowned animation film studio would be psyched to know that there is a Ghibli Museum amidst the bustling heart of Tokyo. Elements of anime films they have produced are brought to life – get on board the big yellow bus to be transported into the Ghibli Forest!
4. Dogo Onsen, Ehime
Head to Dogo Onsen, the oldest bathhouse in the Ehime prefecture, which was used for over 2,000 years! The bathhouse in the highly popular movie “Spirited Away” is inspired by this very building. Aside from the onsen, the prefecture is also known for its sweet oranges and fish.
5. Shirakawa, Gifu
A traditional village located in the prefecture of Gifu, the place gets people talking as it is one of the most scenic places in Japan – pine trees and mountains surround the town, giving it a perfect idyllic setting of a village.
We recommend adding a night’s stay at the Minshuku (a unique thatched Japanese-style farmhouse) to your bucket list. The Shirakawago light up festival is a very popular event in Gifu, so if a beautifully illuminated town sounds like something you’d like to visit, do take note of the festival dates before booking your holiday.
