Recommended Japanese attractions

1. Naoshima, Kagawa Prefecture - A fusion of art and nature Naoshima, located in the Seto Inland Sea, is a paradise for art lovers. The island is dotted with works by famous artists such as Yayoi Kusama and Tadao Ando, ​​especially Yayoi Kusama's pumpkin sculptures, which have become a must-see spot. Recommended art galleries: Chichu Art Museum, Benesse House. Rent a bicycle and ride around the island to enjoy the harmony between art and nature. Location: In the Seto Inland Sea, near the waters of Kagawa Prefecture. Transportation: Take a ferry from Takamatsu Port or Okayama Uno Port to Naoshima, which takes about 30-60 minutes. Takamatsu Port: Take a bus from Takamatsu Airport to Takamatsu Port (approximately 40 minutes). Okayama Uno Port: Take the JR Uno Line from Okayama Station to Uno Station (approximately 50 minutes) and walk to Uno Port. 2. Tottori Sand Dunes - Japan's "Desert" The sand dunes in Tottori Prefecture are the largest desert landscape in Japan, and camel riding and sandboarding are popular activities. There are also places to soak in hot springs around, where you can experience the pleasure of relaxing in the natural landscape. Location: Tottori Prefecture, near the Sea of ​​Japan. Transportation: Take the Tottori Sand Dunes bus from Tottori Station, which takes about 20 minutes. Airport: The bus from Tottori Airport to Tottori Station takes about 20 minutes. 3. Zao Fox Village in Miyagi Prefecture - Close contact with foxes Zao Fox Village is a must-visit place for fox lovers. There are more than 100 foxes raised in the village, and you can observe them up close and even feed them. In winter, the combination of snow and foxes is very dreamy. Transportation: From Shiroishi Zao Station (Shinkansen stops) Bus: From Shiroishi Station, you can take a local bus which takes about 40 minutes. 4. Shirakawa-go, Gifu - the tranquility of Gassho-style village Shirakawa-go is a famous world heritage site, and its unique Gassho-style houses are its iconic landscape. Shirakawa-go is covered with snow in winter, like a fairy tale world. It is recommended to overlook the entire village from the observation deck in the evening, the scenery is particularly charming. Location: Northern Gifu Prefecture, World Heritage Site. Transportation: Take a direct bus from Takayama Station or Kanazawa Station, which takes about 1.5 hours. Take the JR line from Nagoya to Takayama Station, then take a bus. 5. Aomori Oirase Gorge - Tranquility in a Secret Place The Oirase Gorge in Aomori Prefecture has clear water and dense forests. Autumn is the best time to visit. The red and yellow maple leaves decorate the entire gorge like a poem, which is suitable for travelers who like hiking and photography. Location: Towada City, Aomori Prefecture, connected to Lake Towada. Transportation: Take a bus from Aomori Station to Lake Towada (about 2 hours), and get off at Oirase Gorge. Airport: Take the airport bus from Aomori Airport to Aomori Station, then transfer to the bus. 6. Nara Yoshinoyama - a beautiful cherry blossom viewing spot with few people Although it is not as popular as the cherry blossom viewing season in Kyoto and Tokyo, the cherry blossom landscape of Yoshinoyama is unique. In spring, tens of thousands of cherry trees are in full bloom on the mountain, there are relatively few tourists, and the environment is quieter. Location: Yoshino, Nara Prefecture, Kansai region. Transportation: Take the Kintetsu train from Osaka Abenobashi Station to Yoshino Station, which takes about 1.5 hours. You can also take the Kintetsu Line from Nara Station or Kyoto Station to Yoshino Station. Tips: Transportation: Plan ahead, as some attractions are remote and require taking a local bus or renting a car. Accommodation: Choose a local B&B to experience traditional Japanese culture. Food: Don’t miss the local delicacies, such as udon noodles in Kagawa Prefecture and crab dishes in Tottori.