Not Just Kansai: Japan’s Seven Major Cities Are More Fun Than You Think

By / MOOK Scenic Spots Home Travel Life Network Editorial Department Compilation Report
 
Taiwanese people love traveling to Japan, with popular first-tier cities like Kyoto, Osaka, and Tokyo being perennial favorites on the list of most beloved destinations in recent years. But if you’ve grown tired of these major urban spots, Japan actually has seven other cities that offer an authentic Japanese experience.
 
● Japan’s Hidden Hot Spring Town ─ Kumamoto
Kumamoto, which has gained popularity in recent years thanks to its mascot “Kumamon,” has many fans in Taiwan. The Minister’s Office at Kumamon Square attracts large crowds of visitors coming to pay homage. Kumamoto is also known as the “Land of Fire” due to Mount Aso, the world’s largest active volcano with a caldera, located in its northeastern region. In addition to taking a cable car to admire the majestic volcano, the surrounding area is dotted with many hot springs, and passing through Kusahira Thousand can even let you see grazing horses and cattle, as if you’ve arrived at the boundless grasslands of Mongolia. Also, don’t forget to try horse meat, Kumamoto’s most iconic local dish, when you visit, for a taste of Japan on your palate.

● Strolling Through the Old Streets of Takayama ─ Takayama
Located in Gifu Prefecture and once the capital of the ancient Hida Province, Takayama is a quaint city known as the “Little Kyoto of Hida.” The Takayama Festival, held every spring and autumn, is one of Japan’s three great festivals, featuring a magnificent thousand-person parade and elaborately crafted floats with ingeniously designed moving dolls, showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship of Hida artisans. The well-preserved old streets of Takayama are a popular attraction, where you can enjoy the atmosphere of traditional Japanese wooden architecture, as well as shops offering Hida beef skewers, hip cafes, and sake breweries.

● A World Heritage Journey Through Hokuriku ─ Kanazawa
Kanazawa, which preserves the retro charm of castle towns and tea houses, has been a cultural and industrial hub in Japan’s Hokuriku region since ancient times. It’s best visited during the winter snowfall to witness the illumination event at Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s three most famous gardens, and admire the Japanese-style garden along with the limited winter gold-colored yukitsuri (snow protection ropes). Speaking of illumination, the nearby Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, draws travelers from around the world each year to see its fairytale-like dreamy scenery. The 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art in Kanazawa is also a must-visit attraction, housing a rich collection of modern artworks, among which the “Swimming Pool” created by Argentine designer Leandro Erlich is especially famous.

● A Refreshingly Elegant Resort Destination ─ Karuizawa
Summer is the best season to visit Karuizawa, and it’s also the preferred choice for a leisurely holiday among local literati and refined individuals. Unlike the hustle and bustle of the city, the green and refreshing Karuizawa exudes an elegant and tranquil charm, effortlessly winning the favor of the Japanese imperial family and celebrities like John Lennon. Here, travelers can immerse themselves in nature, stroll freely along tree-lined paths, enjoy the vibrant lake views of Lake Yunoko, or partake in outdoor activities such as golf, horseback riding, and skiing. For a deeper appreciation of the area’s cultural beauty, you can also visit the historic guesthouse, the former Mikasa Villa.

● A Unique Natural Southern Island Culture ─ Naha
Different from other Japanese cities, Okinawa was once an independent nation, having nurtured a unique history and culture under the rule of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Its renowned cultural heritage, Shuri Castle, was the royal residence of the ancient Ryukyu Kingdom and witnessed the rise and fall of the dynasty, offering a glimpse into the kingdom’s former prosperity through its abundant ruins. Aside from housing many World Heritage Sites, Okinawa today is filled with a strong southern island vibe, boasting beautiful beaches across the island, with clear shallows shining under the sun, exuding a vacation atmosphere. Moreover, the island is home to the world’s second “Maeda Point Blue Cave” and Japan’s largest limestone cave, Gyokusendo, which are also world-class natural wonders not to be missed.