I've traveled beyond Japan's popular Tokyo-Kyoto-Osaka route. There are 4 cool day trips I'd actually recommend.
A traveler shares recommendations for four day trips in Japan that exist outside the traditional Tokyo-Kyoto-Osaka 'Golden Route'. The author highlights Saitama, Wakayama City, Kobe, and Nara as accessible locations offering unique cultural and culinary experiences.
Why it matters
As Japan experiences record tourism, these recommendations help disperse visitors to lesser-known regions, potentially alleviating over-tourism in major hubs.
Compared to popular destinations like Kyoto and Osaka, Wakayama City has a quieter, residential feel. Alessa Hickman After moving to Japan , I started taking day trips beyond the usual Tokyo-Kyoto-Osaka travel circuit. Saitama was easy to get to from Tokyo, but felt like a completely different place. Wakayama City, Kobe, and Nara are a few of my other favorite spots for food, scenery, and shopping. The first time I visited Japan , I followed the so-called Golden Route and visited three major tourist spots: Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. I immediately understood why these three cities were so popular. They all had delicious food, gorgeous temples, and seemingly endless things to see and do. Since moving here last year, though, I've been making a point to venture beyond the usual stops, hoping to see another side of Japan.
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