Japan is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Bursting with natural wonders, a rich traditional history, and vibrant modern culture, there is something for everyone in both the towering metropolises and quiet mountains of this country. Whether you are the adventurous type or if you prefer some luxurious dining and shopping, Japan has an answer for every type of traveler.
But nowadays, the country’s big cities are experiencing an issue called over-tourism. When you were in Japan last time, did you find yourself among tourists from your own country? Did you wonder “am I really in Japan” or just another part of your country that you have never visited?
Having the same thought like you, Vegetarian’s Japan Guide is here to give you all the information and tips you need to plan your next Japan trip! The website aims to introduce you to places that:
☆ Are less known to foreigners
☆ Are famous (but most foreigners only visiting the place in certain seasons, which is a shame from our point of view!)
☆ Even a lot of the locals aren’t aware of or have not visited themselves!
Come and explore the spectacular Japanese destination that you did not know before with us!
From time to time though, we may still post destinations that although can be full of tourists but are too amazing to not share with you. So do excuse us if you find articles on the website of places that are packed with foreign tourists (´▽｀*).
As you might be aware, there are a total of 47 prefectures in Japan. Only starting this website in 2020, we are slowly screening through all the destinations in each prefecture and including the ones that we reckon can be the best places to visit in Japan when they visit a prefecture. So please find below the prefectures that we have largely covered. We will slowly add to the list as we share more awesome articles with you!
Note the prefectures below are listed in the sequence of the Japanese islands from north to south. Some of the best spots are showcased on this page, but for all the attractions of each prefecture that we have covered, please click on the heading of each prefecture (=ﾟωﾟ)ﾉ.
Aomori Prefecture (青森県)
At the northern part of Japan’s main island – Honshu (本州), apart from producing the sweetest and juicy apples in Japan, Aomori Prefecture is known for its breathtaking landscapes created by a series of volcanic mountain ranges. Below are some of the best places to visit in Aomori that have unique charm in each season.
Akita Prefecture (秋田県)
Akita Prefecture, southwest of Aomori, is the hometown of the very cute and fluffy dog breed – Akita. Its beautiful landscapes are nowhere less impressive than what Aomori Prefecture has. It also has a nicely maintained samurai historic district – Kakudate town that can easily make you lose track of time!
Iwate Prefecture (岩手県)
Being the second biggest prefecture in Japan, Iwate Prefecture is a great destination that suits travellers with a range of interests. The Towada-Hachimantai National Park (十和田八幡平国立公園) on the prefectural border between Iwate and Akita is one of the best national parks in Japan for outdoor activities lovers. Hiraizumi, a city in the south that has a rich architectural legacy, was a political centre that can compete with Kyoto back from the 11th to the 12th centuries.
Ishikawa Prefecture (石川県)
Mostly well-known by its capital – Kanazawa (金沢), where people are enchanted by the “perfect” garden – Kenrokuen (兼六園) and the three teahouse districts. Not too far away from the capital, the Noto Peninsula (能登半島) is the paradise for beach lovers and at Kanazawa’s southwest, the Hakusan National Park is where you encounter the most magnificent scenery in Ishikawa.
Okayama Prefecture (岡山県)
Okayama, just an hour away by bullet train from Osaka has some of the most stunning sceneries in the southern part of Japan’s main island – Honshu (本州). Apart from the two classic attractions – Kōrakuen Garden (後楽園) and Okayama Castle (岡山城) in the capital – Okayama City, the spectacular view of the Seto Ōhashi Bridge (瀬戸大橋) and the Seto Inland Sea (瀬戸内海) from various places across the prefecture is another reason why visitors fall in love with Okayama.
