Participate in farming activities encircled by over 300 charming rice paddies.

A perfect blend of art, culture, and nature only two hours from Tokyo, exploring Niigata’s rich tapestry of outdoor exhibitions makes the ultimate itinerary for the adventurous art lover. (Photo: Ma Yansong /MAD Architects, 「Tunnel of Light」 (Echigo-Tsumari Art Field）Photo by YAMADA Tsutomu)

Guarding the western border of Tokyo from evil spirits, the victors of samurai-era battles left priceless weapons and armor as offerings to the gods here for centuries.

Experience the exhilarating beauty of Kanagawa, taking in the shimmering of Lake Ashi and Mount Fuji’s might, with a Hakone Mountain Ripper tour. After cycling or hiking with an experienced guide, you’ll truly have earned a long soak in the hot springs.

Visit Kiryu, a city whose revived cultural heritage offers locals and visitors new ways of living in and experiencing this historical town. Tucked in the east of Gunma Prefecture, the city of Kiryu is famous for producing traditional Japanese silk textiles. Recently, Kiryu’s historic shopping district has been undergoing a cultural revival to reimagine its past, present, and future. Experience this “fashion town” firsthand to see how local communities and lifestyles are changing with the times, while protecting crafts that have been passed down over generations.

With both heart-pounding and leisure outdoor activities, museums, and views of Mount Fuji, Lake Kawaguchiko is a one-of-a-kind nature destination.

Explore a dining experience that merges culinary innovation with artistic expression. TREE by NAKED in Tokyo offers a unique take on sustainable dining, combining creative dishes with an immersive atmosphere.

This DIY Workshop in Tokyo’s trendy Meguro Ward offers visitors a chance to learn the art of kintsugi under the instruction of a skilled artisan. The concept of kintsugi, repairing broken ceramics with gold lacquer, has grown in popularity in recent years. For some, it is a form of therapy and meditation, a symbolic restoration of something broken in their lives, made beautiful by highlighting the flaw rather than hiding it. For others, it’s simply a way to enjoy a traditional Japanese craft that has been practiced for nearly 500 years.

In the industrial city of Sanjo, learn the basics of blacksmithing and create a handcrafted souvenir that displays your newfound skills.

Grab a sturdy pair of hiking boots and get ready to explore the dazzling leaves and intriguing rock formations of Shosenkyo Gorge, about three hours from Tokyo (Shinjuku) by train and bus.

Everywhere you look around Nikko’s Lake Chuzenji promises to offer unrivaled views of nature at its finest. From verdant forests to volcanic mountains, there’s plenty to see, and just as much to do, in the area.

The cold winters in Chichibu transform the landscape into a frozen wonderland, which is home to the famous Three Great Icicles. These natural ice formations, sculpted by nature, offer spectacular scenery that are perfect for adventure seekers and outdoor lovers. With their ever-changing shapes and colorful illuminations, the icicles make for an unforgettable winter experience in Japan.

Extreme Onsen tours aim to bring you to pure, naturally heated hot spring water surrounded by gorgeous views at 1,250 meters above sea level in Fukushima. Take time to relax at a hidden onsen so deep in the midst of nature that even some locals don’t know about it.

With a full range of colors on display, Ashikaga Flower Park is stunning no matter the time of year. Marvel at the orange tulips, blue hydrangeas and the purple wisterias of one of Tochigi Prefecture’s best-kept secrets.

If you’re tired of the crowds and noise that are a side effect of big city living, Ibaraki is home to a stunning getaway right on the beach. Open your eyes to sunshine and sand by heading out to Oarai.

Explore marshland, forest, and lakeside trails and enjoy the peaceful presence of the encircling mountainscape.

Traditional crafts are always in style in Japan and one such city to create your own piece of culture is Mito, the capital city of Ibaraki where you’ll learn all about the famed Suifu chochin lanterns of the region.

Take a seat on a train that blends stargazing, local hospitality, and breathtaking scenery. This unique ride is an unforgettable experience, redefining what it means to travel by rail in Japan.