| 1. Hiraizumi | 2. Zao |
Dating more than a millennium, Hiraizumi's
cultural assets, including 'Chujson-ji' and
'Motsu-ji' temples are presently under evaluation
toward being added to World Heritage
Inscription as "Cultural Landscape Associated
with Pure Land Buddhist Cosmology".
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Straddling the border of Miyagi and
Yamagata Prefecture, Zao mountain
resort area is famous for ski resorts and hot
springs. 'Okama' a crater lake and 'Juhyo' iceglazed
trees are familiar symbols of Zao.
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| 3. Yuzawa |  4. Nikko |
Set among nature and scenic mountains,
Yuzawa is renowned as one of the largest
ski and hot spring resort in Japan. Two
world class ropeway (gondolas) are popular
throughout the year.
About Yuzawa Onsen
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Nikko is famed for the 'Toshogu',
Japan's most sumptuously decorated
shrine complex, truly worthy of World Heritage designation. Set
amid a magnificent landscape, Nikko abounds with limpid lakes,
majestic waterfalls, hot springs and seasonal diversity.
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| 5. Mt.Fuji | 6. Atami |
Rising a majestic 3,776
meters, Mt. Fuji is the
unmistakable symbol of
Japan. Attracted to its
charismatic beauty, each
summer numerous Japanese
and international climbers
gather for the challenging
trek up to a viewpoint
unmatched anywhere.
More about Mt.Fuji
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The doorway of Izu Peninsula,
Atami is conveniently located
near to Tokyo and a justly
renowned hot spring resort.
It's an ideal get-away to relax
body and soul while gazing
upon a lovely seascape.
About Izu Onsen
About Izu Peninsula
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| 7. Karuizawa | 8. Kanazawa |
A fashionable escape from
the summer's oppressive
heat, Karuizawa is a resort
town set amid lush green
mountains featuring a chic,
international ambiance.
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Once recognized as the most opulent
region in Japan, Kanazawa yet boasts
of attractive scenery including
'Kenrokuen', historical sites, elegant
arts and crafts and a refined food
culture.Photo provided by Ishikawa prefecture
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| 9. Takayama | 10. Mie |
Often favored by
overseas visitors,
Takayama is an extremely
popular city, offering ancient
history, splendid natural sites
and 'Takayama Matsuri' one of
the most splendid of all
Japanese festivals.
Takayama sightseeing spots
More about Gifu
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The Ise Shrines, Japan's most sacred Shinto shrines are an integral, historic part of Mie Prefecture. Profoundly significant in Mie, 'Kumano Kodo', part of the ancient pilgrim route as well as Wakamaya are designated a World Cultural Heritage Site.
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| 11. Himeji | 12. Hiroshima |
Himeji is proud of its magnificent, historic castle easily accessed from Osaka or Kyoto. Himeji Castle is deservedly designated both a National Treasure and a World Heritage Site.
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Since 1945, Hiroshima carries the historical misfortune
of being remembered as the world's first victim of an atomic weapon. The city is also famous for 'Miyajima (Itsukushima-jinja)' floating shrine (one of Japan's three great views) and a World Heritage Site.Photo provided by Hiroshima prefecture
Hiroshima sightseeing spots
Hiroshima, Yamaguchi & Shimane
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| 13. Wakayama | 14. Tokushima |
Wakayama is widely renowned for being part of a unique World Heritage Site. A magnet for many international visitors, 'Koyasan' stands at the summit of a deep, wooded mountain.
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Each spring, gigantic tidal whirlpools 20 and more meters in diameter regularly turn up in Tokushima. It's an awesome natural phenomenon. 'Awa Odori' is a fun summer parade of dance.
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| 15. Matsuyama | 16. Beppu |
Capital of Ehime Prefecture,
Matsuyama is the largest city on
Shikoku Island. It's best known for
lovingly preserved Matsuyama Castle, and Dogo Hot Springs,
Japan's oldest existing health spa.
About Dogo Onsen
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Beppu in Oita Prefecture, is a very much frequented hot springs area boasting Japan's largest number of thermal sources and gush volume. Take the exciting 'Jigoku Meguri' (Hell Tour) to view steaming hot cauldrons of active volcanic pits.
About Beppu Onsen
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