Japan offers a unique experience for travelers, allowing them to slow down, take a deep breath, and appreciate their surroundings. The country’s majestic landscapes and rustic townscapes make it an ideal spot to observe nature, showcasing the beauty of nature and the importance of taking time to appreciate the beauty of nature.
Shosenkyo Gorge, located in Yamanashi Prefecture, offers stunning views of Mt. Fuji and the Southern Japan Alps. The gorge features a hiking trail through vibrant plants and rock formations, and visitors can take the ropeway to get a spectacular view. The gorge is accessible from Kofu Station, a 90-minute ride from Shinjuku Station, and a 40-minute bus ride from there.
Lake Ashinoko in Kanagawa Prefecture is a breathtaking sight, with Mt. Fuji towering over the caldera lake and the Hakone Shrine. Visitors can enjoy stunning scenery and ride on pirate ships or swan paddle boats. To reach Lake Ashinoko from Tokyo, take the Romancecar train from Shinjuku Station to Hakone-Yumoto Station and then a 35-minute bus ride to Motohakone-ko station.
Nagatoro, a small town in Saitama Prefecture, offers a rich history and diverse outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy boat rides down the Arakawa River and through the Nagatoro Gorge or take more intense river rafting rides for thrills. Nagatoro is accessible by car via the Kan-Etsu Expressway or by train via the Chichibu Railway; taking around an hour and a half to reach Nagatoro station.
Mt. Horaiji, located in Aichi Prefecture, is a towering mountain that blends nature and spirituality, offering a serene experience. Its towering shape envelops a forest, allowing visitors to experience colors hand-picked by a landscape artist. The mountain is perfect for reflective walks, showcasing Japanese history and religion. The Horaiji Temple, built in 703, is believed to have curative powers. Access to Mt. Horaiji is possible by local bus from Hon-Nagashino Station or by shinkansen from Nagoya Station to Toyohashi Station.
Nunobiki Falls, one of Japan’s most famous waterfalls, is located behind Shin-Kobe Station. The waterfall offers a serene view from its top, with a herb garden and English informational signs. Visitors can take the Kobe Nunobiki Ropeway to the top for an unrivaled view of the surrounding flora. The area is away from the hustle and bustle of Japan, providing a unique experience of harmony with nature. To reach the falls from Osaka, take the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen from Osaka and hike 20 minutes.
While vacations spent rushing through urban jungles are fun, sometimes stopping and taking in the scenery is all we need to enjoy the moment. Japan is blessed with an abundance of natural wonders for those who take the time to look — with some planning, a knack for exploration, and a sense of adventure, anyone can make excellent memories and take awesome pictures. To appreciate nature is to seek it out, and in Japan, there’s always more to see in the land of endless discovery.
