Originally published in April 2015 and updated in January 2018. Any prices are lowest estimated prices only at the time of publication and are subject to change and/or availability.
1. Kurashiki
Kurashiki, in Okayama Prefecture, is a showcase of beautifully preserved 17th century wooden warehouses that will teleport you to another era.
2. Shimabara
Photo credit: LuxTonnerre (https://www.flickr.com/photos/luxtonnerre/)/ Flickr (https://www.flickr.com)
Nagasaki prefecture’s Shimabara is a well-preserved castle town set in the dramatic and volcanic mountains of the Unzendake region whose castle is surrounded by old temples, shrines, and the houses of samurai.
3. Kakunodate
Snowy Kakunodate in Akita prefecture is famed for its well-preserved samurai houses and proliferation of cherry trees scattered along Bukeyashiki Street, some of which you can even visit.
4. Kanazawa
Kanazawa, on the sea of Japan, is a slightly off the beaten path destination offering unforgettable experiences for anyone willing to make the journey there, giving modern travelers a taste of what Japan used to be like.
5. Nara
Nara, the tranquil gem of the Kansai region, has awe inspiring temples dating back millennia. It charms all who visit.
6. Kawagoe
Known as “Little Edo,” this commuter town in the suburban Saitama prefecture is home to a wonderful district of ancient buildings that are too lively to be called museums.
7. Shirakawa-go
Photos do not do this beautiful little town justice. Located in the mountainous reaches of central Japan, north of Nagoya, Shirakawa is most stunning in wintertime when snow coats the roofs and the onsens call out to chilled tourists.
8. Bonus: Tsumago Post Town
Tsumago is an old stopover town on the Ancient Nakasendo road, running from Edo to Kyoto. The Japanese Alps offer a cool escape from the summer heat and amazing skiing in the winter.
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