NEWS

MIYAKO OKINAWA

Okinawa

These eight remote islands lie approximately 300 kilometers southwest of Okinawa’s main Island in a beautiful sea teeming with coral reefs. Primeval forests, white sandy beaches, irregular coastlines and clear blue waters attract tourists, divers and snorkelers from around the world. Denizens of the islands share a long history and rich culture.

KARUIZAWA

Nagano

Dotted with modernist museums and residences, Karuizawa is a tony mountain retreat where urbanites come for ecotours and bird-watching, healing hot springs, sybaritic spa treatments and fine cuisine.

MOUNT FUJI /
LAKE YAMANAKA

Yamanashi

The closest to Tokyo of the five Fuji lakes, Yamanaka invites with power spots both sacred and secular. It’s also the largest of the lakes, and a prime spot for viewing the “Diamond Fuji” spectacle when sun and summit align.

IZU SHUZENJI

Shizuoka

The hot-spring resort of Shuzenji, nestled in the densely wooded hills of the Izu Peninsula, rewards the leisurely stroller. Start your explorations at its eponymous temple right in the center of town.

NANKI-SHIRAHAMA

Wakayama

White sand beaches or mountain trails? They’re both here for you to enjoy. The rugged scenery makes for memorable sunsets—try Engetsu Island and Senjojiki Plateau for those—and sunrises, too, like at Hashigui Rocks.

LAKE BIWA

Shiga

Haiku master Matsuo Basho (1644–1694) visited Otsu on the shore of Lake Biwa more than a few times; the place inspired as many as 89 of his poems. His final resting place is Gichuji temple.

HAKUBA

Nagano

Hakuba is one of Japan's most outstanding mountain resorts. Enjoy trekking and mountain climbing in the summer, the changing of the leaves in autumn the, and fine powder snow in the winter. Throughout the year, Hakuba will charm you with magnificent natural beauty and superb views.