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Japan’s islands offer a unique blend of natural landscapes, ancient culture and modern amenities that make for an unforgettable experience. With over 6,800 islands including the four main islands of Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu and Shikoku and other smaller islands, the islands in Japan offer endless possibilities for exploration and discovery.
From the hot springs and active volcanoes of Kyushu to the white sandy beaches of Okinawa, each island has something special to offer. Ancient temples, shrines, and ruins are found throughout the country, with each island possessing a unique character and offering its own distinct charm. With so much to explore, Japan’s islands offer an unparalleled experience for any curious traveler.
Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or a foodie, the islands in Japan have something to offer everyone.
Here are some of the best things to do while visiting the islands of Japan:
1. Participate in the stunning Sapporo Snow Festival (Hokkaido)
The Sapporo winter festival is a week-long celebration that takes place in the city of Sapporo, every year in early February. The festival, which was started in 1950, showcases large and intricate sculptures that are illuminated at night, creating a mesmerizing ambiance.
Visitors can also participate in various activities such as snow rafting, snow sliding and ice skating. In addition to the sculptures, the festival offers musical performances and an International Snow Sculpture Contest.
The festival is a celebration of winter sports, art, and culture offering a wide range of activities for all ages and interests and drawing in millions every year.
2. Explore the mystical gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine (Kyoto)
Fushimi Inari shrine is a mesmerizing temple located in the city of Kyoto, on the main island of Honshu. It is a place of spiritual significance dedicated to the god of agriculture and prosperity, Inari.
The temple’s most striking feature is the Senbon Torii, a pathway lined with thousands of vermillion gates that lead up to the main shrine buildings. You can walk through the winding pathway that is over 2.5 kilometers long, creating a scenic journey that is both peaceful and breathtaking.
The Inari Shrines, the most familiar shrines to Japanese people are said to be around 30,000 in Japan among which the Fushimi Inari is the head shrine.
3. Explore the underwaters at Ishigaki Island
This idyllic island in the Yaeyama Islands is known for its crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life, making it a prime destination for underwater enthusiasts. The coral reefs surrounding the island are home to a large variety of coral and tropical fish.
Snorkelers can also spot green sea turtles and Manta rays at popular snorkeling sites such as Kabira Bay, Yonehara Beach and Manta Scramble. The island also offers a variety of tours and rental equipment, making it easy to plan your unforgettable underwater adventure.
4. Explore the rugged beauty of Shiretoko National Park (Hokkaido)
Shiretoko National Park is a breathtaking destination located in the northern region of Japan’s Hokkaido Island. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the park boasts diverse landscapes that include snowy forests, wetlands, and rugged coastal cliffs.
Visitors can admire panoramic views of the sea and mountains, witness the local wildlife in its natural habitat, such as brown bears and Steller’s sea eagles and participate in a variety of outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, boating and winter sports.
Whether you are a nature lover or just looking for a unique experience, Shiretoko National Park is a must-visit destination that showcases the best of Northern Japan’s Islands and their natural beauty.
5. Visit the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage (Shikoku)
The Shikoku Pilgrimage, also known as the 88 Temple Pilgrimage Circuit, is a spiritual journey in Japan that involves visiting 88 temples in a specific order. The pilgrimage trail, which encircles Japan’s smallest major island provides a route to enlightenment for those who follow it devoutly and involves a blend of traditional practices like prayer, devotional acts, and obtaining temple stamps as well as scenic natural landscapes. Japan Tour Packages often include this iconic pilgrimage as a unique and culturally enriching experience for travelers.
The full route covers roughly 1,400 kilometers, circling the entire island. The journey can take a month or two on foot, but modern pilgrims have the option of using cars or public transportation. Whether you’re seeking spiritual enlightenment, cultural experience or simply an opportunity to immerse yourself in Japan’s stunning natural beauty, the Shikoku Pilgrimage is something that you should undertake when visiting Japan.
6. Discover the culinary delights at local Yatai (Fukuoka)
The local Yatai or food stalls of Fukuoka, located on the northern shore of Japan’s Kyushu Island are small, mobile food stalls that serve a variety of traditional Japanese dishes and provide a lively atmosphere for diners. These stalls have been an integral part of Fukuoka’s history for over a century and offer a truly authentic dining experience.
Popular dishes include traditional favorites like ramen, Yakitori, and Oden and local specialties like Mizutaki (Chicken Hot Pot) and Hakata-style ramen. Each Yatai stall has its own menu and the visitors get a glimpse into the city’s rich food culture.
The lively experience, delicious delicacies and cultural significance make dining at a Yatai food stall a must-try experience for food lovers.
7. Take home beautiful porcelain pottery from Arita (Saga)
The town of Arita, located on the island of Kyushu is considered the birthplace of Imari style Japanese porcelain. With a history dating back over 400 years, each piece is meticulously crafted using traditional techniques passed down from generations of artisans.
From intricate designs to rich vibrant colors, Arita porcelain is a symbol of Japan’s rich cultural heritage and a true work of art. Today, the town is home to numerous pottery installations, workshops, museums and galleries, offering visitors a chance to witness and take home the craftsmanship that goes into each piece.
The pieces are a timeless addition, and also bring a touch of Japanese elegance into your life.
8. Hike through the Takachiho Gorge (Miyazaki)
The Takachiho Gorge in Miyazaki Prefecture is a natural wonder that was formed by columnar jointing, creating a stunning landscape of rock formations and the 17-meter Manai Falls.
You can get up close and personal with the falls by taking a boat ride directly underneath them or take in the panoramic views from the wooden observation deck perched high above the gorge. The Takachiho area also offers a wealth of cultural and historical attractions, including shrines and inns that showcase the area’s rich traditions.
With the Takachiho Gorge you can explore the natural wonders and cultural landmarks of the region, including the Takachiho and Amano-Iwato Shrines for an unforgettable experience that blends nature, history, and adventure.
9. Visit the largest active volcano in the world (Kumamoto)
Aso-Kuju National Park is a stunning natural wonderland located in the heart of Kyushu Island. The park is home to five active volcanic peaks including the iconic Mt. Aso, one of the largest active volcanic caldera in the world and has a rich ecosystem with over 1,000 species of flora and fauna.
Additionally, the park has numerous hot springs where you can unwind and soak in the natural thermal waters. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, or just looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, Aso-Kuju National Park is definitely a must-visit destination while taking a tour of Japan’s Islands.
10. Experience Japan’s natural beauty while hiking the Kumano Kodo (Wakayama)
Imagine hiking along ancient pilgrimage routes, surrounded by breathtaking mountain and coastal scenery, and immersed in Japan’s rich cultural heritage. Awaiting you on the Kumano Kodo, is a network of trails that crisscross the Kii Peninsula in Honshu, Japan.
These trails have been used by pilgrims for over 1,000 years and are well-known for their historical and spiritual significance. One of the most popular routes is the Nakahechi, which takes hikers through beautiful forests and past small villages and offers plenty of opportunities to rest, eat, and explore the surrounding areas. For those seeking a romantic adventure, Japan Honeymoon Packages offer the perfect blend of cultural immersion and natural beauty along the Kumano Kodo trails.
