It will be no surprise to anyone to hear that Japan’s tourism industry has been absolutely booming for the last few years, largely because of its bustling city life, natural beauty, and cultural heritage. Now, there are numbers to back up its reputation as a world-favourite travel destination: Wanderlust’s readers have voted Japan the most desirable country in the world to travel to, allowing it to reclaim the title for the first time in over a decade.
Most visitors to Japan will visit Tokyo and Kyoto, the two mainstays of its tourism hotspots, but we say – don’t overlook the country’s offbeat and equally wonderful locales. The next time you visit, consider the island of Shikoku, the smallest of the country’s four major islands and also one of the most beautiful. Travellers are drawn to its gorgeous coastline, but you may also be interested in its famous Dogo Onsen, which inspired the iconic Studio Ghibli’s movies. It’s also the site of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage, if you want to get in touch with your spiritual side.
Or consider taking a trip to Kanazawa, a major city that escaped air raids during World War 2 and is therefore home to some of the country’s oldest historical attractions. It’s probably best known for Kenrokuen, one of the country’s most beautiful landscape gardens, full of stunning greenery and quaint teahouses. It’s also wonderful in cherry blossom season. Its Higashi Chaya district is famed for its geisha performances, and it’s got a ninja temple (Ninjadera) and a samurai district (Nagamachi).
Okinawa is another part of Japan growing in popularity amongst travellers. The area is special for its indigenous Ainu and Ryukyu culture, which means you’ll get a whole other experience there than if you were in other parts of the mainland. It’s also home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Shuri Castle, and its subtropical climate offers beautiful beaches and a dizzying array of marine life, including whales. It’s also known for its textile craftsmanship and unique culinary ingredients.
You can read more about Wanderlust’s Reader Travel Awards and its winners here.
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