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Japan has launched a new project to advance tourism in areas that still remain unknown to many, in a bid to deviate tourism from the current golden routes.
The project, called “Undiscovered Japan,” is led by the National Tourism Zones Promotion Council, a government-sponsored private organization, launched in 2014 to develop sightseeing areas in line with the Abe administration's target of boosting tourism to 20 million visitors a year by 2020.
“Undiscovered Japan” divides Japan into 12 new tourism zones that foreigners are yet to fully discover. The project encourages officials in each of these zones to improve the quality of tourism in all sectors and actively provide information in English and various other languages to attract new tourists. The project further aims at reviving these small cities, that have for a long time been surviving in the shadows of Japan’s large cities and tourism sites.
The 12 zones, listed below, are located in 10 prefectures across Japan and include some of the country’s most beautiful, historical and spiritual areas.
The Water Kamui -- KushiroMarsh, Akan, and Mashu -- Tourism Zone (Hokkaido)
Home of the stunningly beautiful Manshu and Akan caldera lakes, the Kushiro Marsh, and the Akan and Kushiro-shitsugen national parks, Kushiro city and Teshikaga town of Hokkaido are a cool paradise even in summer and offer not only great views, but also a quality touch of traditional Ainu culture.
Furano-Biei Tourism Zone (Hokkaido)
With hectares of lands planted with different types of flowers, Furano is a blooming destination and a photography haven, loved by many tourists already. The area is still largely unexplored, offering much more than flowers, including exciting rafting experiences on the Sorachi River, the deep blue Biei Blue Pond and more.
Niseko Tourism Zone (Hokkaido)
Perhaps the least undiscovered region on this list, home to some of the world’s finest powder snow ski resorts, Niseko has for a long time been a popular tourist destination. Now it’s time to explore its other attractions, including the Shiribetsu river, abundant nature, rafting, cycling, golf and great cuisine.
Tokimeki Sado and Niigata Tourism Zone (Niigata)
Sado, known as the “island that has befriended demons,” is the largest Honshu island, located in the Sea of Japan. Popular for its “Onidaigo” (Demon’s Dance) festival, the area has much to offer -- from crested ibis watching to awesome food and scenery.
Snow Country Tourism Zone (Niigata, Nagano and Gunma)
Borrowing the famous Yasunari Kawabata book title, this zone comprising of three prefectures is promoting some of the country’s best ski resorts and winter peaceful nature.
Yatsugatake Tourism Zone (Yamanashi, Nagano)
If there is one place in Japan that could give the color of the sky a new name, it is Yatsugatake -- that is how clear blue and beautiful it is. Yatsugatake, a group of mountains located on the prefectural border between Yanamashi and Nagano, with its countless lodges, hiking routes and wildlife, is the perfect spot for some soul-searching and achieving internal peace.
Hamanako Tourism Zone (Shizuoka)
Visit Hamanako Lake, the highlight of Shizuoka’s tourism, for “standing in the middle of the lake” tours, fishing and seafood cuisine attractions.
Kyoto by the Sea Tourism Zone (Kyoto)
Forget about Kyoto’s temples and shrines -- now it’s time to explore the breathtaking sights in the prefecture's cities of Kyotango, Ayabe, Miyazu and more located along the Sea of Japan.
Kagawa Setouchi Art Tourism Zone (Kagawa)
Though the country’s smallest prefecture, Kagawa is home to some of Japan’s largest art monuments, best mountain views, and the splendid Seto Island Sea National Park. Visit for famed Sanuki Udon tours, as well -- definitely the most delicious udon noodles in the country.
Nishi-Awa, Mt Tsurugi and The Yoshino River Tourism Zone (Tokushima)
A hugely unexplored area, it almost feels as if the life in the cities of Miwa and Miyoshi in this Shikoku prefecture has stopped since ancient times. These cities and small towns are also home to some of the most friendly Japanese people, who will greet you and welcome you like like a true local as soon as you arrive.
Toyonokuni Millennium Heritage Tourism Zone (Oita)
Although Oita Prefecture is popular for hosting some of the country’s best hot springs, little is known about the prefecture’s northern region, where a history spanning over 1,000 years is still preserved and practiced. Worth visiting for inspiration and spiritual traveling.
Sea Wind Country Sasebo Ojika Tourism Zone (Nagasaki)
Off the coast of Nagasaki there are 208 tiny isles, commonly known as the Kujuku Islands. These isles are a must-visit destination for anyone who wishes to taste the life of local islanders, enjoy spectacular scenery and touch on a place that hasn’t been yet harmed by abundant tourism.
See splendid photos and learn more about each region from here.
© Japan Today
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