Asia Transpacific Journeys Japan vacation packages are ideal if you have more time, if you are on your second trip to Japan, or if you are looking for a specific destination. Here are some additional highlights.
Honshu
Travel in Japan to the main island and cultural epicenter of Honshu, the largest island of Japan. Situated south of Hokkaido it is the second most populous island in the world after Java.
Shikoku
Shikoku Island is the smallest of Japan’s four main islands. It possesses great natural beauty and rugged mountains, but is perhaps most famous for its pilgrimage circuit of 88 sacred Buddhist temples. This pilgrimage has been popular since the Edo period in the belief that a successful completion of the tour exonerates Buddhist followers from the cycle of rebirth.
Of interest on the island is Dogo Onsen; with a 3,000-year history, it claims to be the oldest hot spring spa in Japan. According to legend, the hot springs were discovered after a white heron healed an injured leg by soaking it in the thermal mineral waters
The Iya Valley is known as one of Japan’s “three hidden regions.” Its tall peaks and deep gorges were historically a safe haven for the Heike Clan after its defeat by the rival Genji Clan during civil wars in the 12th Century. Today, Iya’s mountainsides are dotted with tiny rural hamlets where residents struggle to preserve their traditional ways despite considerable economic pressure to move to the cities or take jobs in the construction industry. The area is featured in Alex Kerr’s award-winning book,
Lost Japan.
Kyushu
Beauty abounds in Kyushu, and Japan’s friendliest people call this island home. This will be a highlight of your Japan travel as you explore beautiful gardens and scenery. See Isoteien Garden, one of the most exquisitely manicured formal gardens in Japan. Stay at the famous spa town of Beppu, known for its Hells––bubbling, multicolored waters that form ponds as they ooze from the active volcanic soil. Hike to the Mt Aso volcano caldera, or explore the vibrant port city of Kagoshima.
Hokkaido
The northernmost of Japan’s four main islands, Hokkaido is in many ways the antithesis of Honshu. You won’t find the fabulous cultural treasures of the large island: instead, prepare to be captivated by pristine wilderness areas, opportunities for observing wildlife, and by the traditional culture of the indigenous Ainu people. We can recommend stints in Hokkaido’s many national parks or ferry rides to remote islands during your travel in Japan.
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