Six Best Natural Sites to Visit in Japan

Japan has some of the most amazing natural landscapes on the planet. Here are our pick of the six top destinations you should visit.

Asia, Outdoors
 

Modern Japan is a country of contrasts. On the one hand, it is the home of bustling metropolises, such as Tokyo, on the other, it is a calm and spiritual place. You will experience the latter once you start exploring many of outstandingly beautiful natural sites to visit in Japan.

The country has some of the most amazing natural landscapes on the planet. Here are the six top destinations you should visit.

Shiraito Falls

Japan is home to several amazing waterfalls, but Shiraito Falls are truly breath-taking. Located in the foothills of Mount Fuji, the cascade is nearly 500-foot wide and over 80-foot high. The thin streams of rushing water need to be experienced in person to appreciate just how beautiful and powerful they are. Shiraito Falls is part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. The rest of the park is most definitely worth a visit too. You will find various walking trails around the site.

The Tottori Sand Dunes

Sites to Visit in Japan
Tottori Sand Dunes

If you have been playing online games where you go camel riding in the desert, like the Golden Caravan slot game that is available at Casumo casino, you may be tempted to book a trip to the Sahara. But you may be surprised to learn that there are some mightily impressive sand dunes in Japan that are more than worth the visit. By exploring the dunes, which are up to a staggering 1.25 miles wide and 164 feet high, you can feel like an intrepid explorer ready for adventure.

The Tottori Sand Dunes are located in the Sanin Kaigan National Park. They were created over thousands of years, as sand from the Sendaigawa River washed out to sea and then gradually redeposited along the ocean’s coast. Today, the tidal movements and coastal winds continually change the shape of the dunes, so every time you visit, you will see new sights. There are various enticing ways to see the dunes, including horse-drawn carriages, sand-boarding, and paragliding.

The Volcanos of Aogashima Island

Aogashima Island lies 222 miles away from Tokyo, so it takes some effort to get there. But it is more than worth it. The island features one of only a few double volcanos on earth. The island itself is very small, with only 160 residents. You can camp on the island, which is recommended. The view of the volcano against the starry skies away from the hustle and bustle of the world is a moment you will cherish forever.

Kabira Bay

kabira-bay-japan
Kabira Bay

If you have spent a few days in Japan trekking and adventuring, you will look forward to a day at the beach. Kabira Bay may be a very touristy place, but it is also one of the most stunning natural landscapes in Japan. The tropical beach will take your breath away, as will the coral reefs and fantastic sea creatures below the surface of the water. Unfortunately, swimming is not permitted due to dangerous currents and jellyfish. But you can still see the sea-life by cruising on a glass-bottomed boat.

The Bamboo Groves of Arashiyama

Arashiyama bamboo groves, one of the best natural sites to visit in Japan
Arashiyama bamboo groves, one of the best natural sites to visit in Japan

For a truly authentic Japanese experience, do not miss the stunning Bamboo Groves of Arashiyama. The trees reach up to around 65-feet tall, and as they gently sway in the breeze and shine in the sunlight, you are sure to feel an immense sense of peace and calm. The beauty of the Sagano bamboo forest, where the groves are located, is beyond words. The forest is also home to the Nonomiya Shrine and the Tenryuji Temple.

Mount Fuji

You simply cannot take a trip to Japan without seeing the country’s most famous natural landmark, Mount Fuji. Standing at an incredible 12,389 feet, it is the second-highest volcano located on an island in Asia and is the seventh-highest peak on the planet. The snow-capped mountain is one of Japan’s Three Holy Mountains, along with Mount Haku and Mount Tate. In 2013, it became a Unesco World Heritage Cultural Site. You have various options for viewing the famous mountain. Two of the best views are across the lake in Hakone and from Lake Kawaguchi.


Click on the following link for more ideas on Japan travel.

Explore Topics

Travel Begins at 40

Travel Begins at 40 Editor

Travel articles, news, special offers, festivals and events from the Travel Begins at 40 Editorial team and our global network of travel industry contributors.

Read more posts by Travel Begins at 40 Editor →

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *