When planning a trip to Japan, most tourists flock to well-known destinations like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. However, Japan is a country brimming with diverse landscapes, rich history, and unique cultural experiences waiting to be discovered. While millions of foreign tourists visited Japan this year, many prefectures remained under the radar. Exploring these hidden gems not only offers a more authentic experience but also allows travelers to escape the crowds and uncover the lesser-known beauty of Japan. Here, we delve into the least visited prefectures by foreign tourists and reveal why these destinations deserve a spot on your travel itinerary.
Why Explore the Least Visited Prefectures?
Venturing off the beaten path has its perks. The least visited prefectures in Japan offer:
- Authentic Local Experiences: Engage with local traditions and communities untouched by mass tourism.
- Unspoiled Natural Beauty: Enjoy pristine landscapes, from rugged coastlines to serene mountains.
- Unique Cultural Insights: Discover historical sites, traditional crafts, and regional cuisines unique to each area.
Top 10 Least Visited Prefectures in Japan in 2024
Based on the latest tourism data, here are the top 10 least visited prefectures by foreign tourists:
- Tottori Prefecture
- Number of Foreign Tourists: 50,000
- Highlights: Tottori Sand Dunes, Mizuki Shigeru Road, Uradome Coast
- Shimane Prefecture
- Number of Foreign Tourists: 55,000
- Highlights: Izumo Taisha Shrine, Matsue Castle, Adachi Museum of Art
- Kochi Prefecture
- Number of Foreign Tourists: 60,000
- Highlights: Kochi Castle, Shimanto River, Katsurahama Beach
- Saga Prefecture
- Number of Foreign Tourists: 65,000
- Highlights: Yutoku Inari Shrine, Arita Pottery Village, Saga Castle
- Miyazaki Prefecture
- Number of Foreign Tourists: 70,000
- Highlights: Takachiho Gorge, Udo Shrine, Aoshima Island
- Fukui Prefecture
- Number of Foreign Tourists: 75,000
- Highlights: Tojinbo Cliffs, Eiheiji Temple, Fukui Dinosaur Museum
- Yamagata Prefecture
- Number of Foreign Tourists: 80,000
- Highlights: Yamadera Temple, Ginzan Onsen, Zao Onsen and Snow Monsters
- Akita Prefecture
- Number of Foreign Tourists: 85,000
- Highlights: Kakunodate Samurai District, Nyuto Onsen, Lake Tazawa
- Yamaguchi Prefecture
- Number of Foreign Tourists: 90,000
- Highlights: Kintaikyo Bridge, Motonosumi Shrine, Rurikoji Temple
- Ehime Prefecture
- Number of Foreign Tourists: 95,000
- Highlights: Dogo Onsen, Matsuyama Castle, Shimanami Kaido
Exploring Tottori Prefecture
https://www.dekitabi.com/s/Tottori-City
Tottori Prefecture, the least visited prefecture by foreign tourists in 2024, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Known for its vast sand dunes, Tottori offers a unique desert-like landscape rarely found in Japan. Visitors can experience camel rides, sandboarding, and even visit the Sand Museum, which showcases incredible sand sculptures.
Unearthing Shimane Prefecture
https://www.dekitabi.com/s/Matsue-City
Shimane Prefecture, home to the ancient Izumo Taisha Shrine, is steeped in mythology and history. This prefecture is also known for its beautiful Matsue Castle and the serene Adachi Museum of Art, famous for its stunning Japanese garden.
Kochi Prefecture: Nature’s Paradise
https://www.dekitabi.com/s/Kochi-City
Kochi Prefecture, with its lush landscapes and clear rivers, is a paradise for nature lovers. The Shimanto River, often referred to as the last clear stream of Japan, offers opportunities for canoeing and fishing. Kochi Castle, one of Japan’s few original castles, provides a glimpse into the country’s feudal past.
Saga Prefecture: A Cultural Haven
https://www.dekitabi.com/s/Saga-City
Saga Prefecture is renowned for its pottery, particularly from the town of Arita, which has a history of ceramic production dating back over 400 years. The Yutoku Inari Shrine, one of Japan’s top three Inari shrines, is another must-visit attraction.
Miyazaki Prefecture: Mystical Landscapes
https://www.dekitabi.com/s/Miyazaki-City
Miyazaki Prefecture is famous for its breathtaking Takachiho Gorge, where visitors can take boat rides through the narrow chasm surrounded by towering cliffs and waterfalls. The Udo Shrine, located in a cave by the sea, and Aoshima Island, with its unique rock formations, are other highlights.
Fukui Prefecture: A Land of Dinosaurs and Temples
https://www.dekitabi.com/s/Fukui-City
Fukui Prefecture boasts the impressive Tojinbo Cliffs, dramatic basalt formations along the coast. The Eiheiji Temple, a serene Zen Buddhist temple, and the Fukui Dinosaur Museum, one of the world’s top dinosaur museums, make Fukui a diverse destination.
Yamagata Prefecture: Winter Wonderland
https://www.dekitabi.com/s/Yamagata-City
Yamagata Prefecture is a haven for winter sports enthusiasts, with Zao Onsen and its famous “snow monsters” (snow-covered trees) being major attractions. The historic Yamadera Temple, perched on a mountainside, offers stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere.
Akita Prefecture: Samurai Heritage
https://www.dekitabi.com/s/Akita-City
Akita Prefecture’s Kakunodate Samurai District is known for its well-preserved samurai houses and cherry blossoms in spring. The Nyuto Onsen hot spring area and Lake Tazawa, Japan’s deepest lake, offer relaxation and natural beauty.
Yamaguchi Prefecture: Scenic Beauty
https://www.dekitabi.com/s/Yamaguchi-City
Yamaguchi Prefecture features the iconic Kintaikyo Bridge, a wooden arch bridge with five spans. The Motonosumi Shrine, with its 123 red torii gates leading to the sea, and the Rurikoji Temple’s five-story pagoda are also must-see sights.
Ehime Prefecture: Onsen and Cycling
https://www.dekitabi.com/s/Matsuyama-City
Ehime Prefecture is home to Dogo Onsen, one of Japan’s oldest hot springs, and Matsuyama Castle, which offers panoramic views of the city. The Shimanami Kaido, a series of bridges connecting islands across the Seto Inland Sea, is a popular cycling route.
Why These Prefectures Remain Under the Radar
Several factors contribute to these prefectures being less visited by foreign tourists:
- Limited Promotion: These regions often lack the extensive marketing campaigns seen in more popular destinations.
- Accessibility: Some areas may be harder to reach due to fewer transportation options.
- Awareness: Travelers might be unaware of the attractions these prefectures offer.
How to Get There
Despite being lesser-known, these prefectures are accessible through various means:
- By Train: Japan’s extensive rail network, including the Shinkansen (bullet train), connects most of these regions.
- By Air: Domestic flights from major cities like Tokyo and Osaka serve many of these prefectures.
- By Car: Renting a car offers flexibility and the opportunity to explore remote areas at your own pace.
Conclusion
Exploring Japan’s least visited prefectures offers a chance to experience the country’s rich culture, history, and natural beauty away from the crowds. Whether it’s the sandy landscapes of Tottori, the historical treasures of Shimane, or the serene hot springs of Ehime, each prefecture has its own unique charm waiting to be discovered. By venturing off the beaten path, travelers can uncover the hidden gems of Japan and create unforgettable memories.
For those planning a trip to Japan, consider adding these lesser-known destinations to your itinerary. Not only will you experience a different side of Japan, but you’ll also contribute to the local economies and help preserve these beautiful regions for future generations. Happy travels!
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