Dive into the little-visited destinations of Kansai and Kyushu and you're in for a delightful surprise. These secret regions of Japan offer a world of white castles, bubbling hot springs, smoking volcanoes and mountain-top shrines, far away from the usual bustling crowds of the country.
Read on to see Wanderlust's full, expert guides on both Kansai and Kyushu for inspiration and vital information before choosing and booking your trip...
The water of Ontaki - the main waterfall at Nunobiki Falls - is thought to be so pure that port sailors used to collect it to take on their ships: a taste of home, far out at sea.
The view of Amanohashidate's sandbar, covered in 5,700 pine trees, is considered one of the 'top three scenic views' of Japan.
In Himeji, it is illegal to build anything taller than the skyline-dominating Himeji-jyo castle, which stands at 92m tall.
Kyushu's easygoing 'capital' sits on the north coast. Expect fun alcohol-fuelled street food stands, where locals gather to socialise, contrasted with the peace and spirituality surrounding Fukoka's many shrines and temples...
This pretty city suffered a devastating earthquake in 2016. Just three years on, the city has incredibly bounced back, and the only visible sign that remains of the earthquake is the scaffolding clinging to Kumamoto Castle's keep...
Almost everything in life revolves around hot springs in Oita, from bathing, drinking and even cooking food in the steam. Expect a delightfully beautiful city with white steam rising from vents in almost every direction you look...
Fukuoka is home to more shrines and temples than both Kyoto and Tokyo, including the 16th century Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine which is surrounded by 6,000 plum trees.
The ruby red Usa Shrine in Usa city, the northern part of Oita, is considered the most important of Japan’s 40,000 'Hachiman shrines', dedicated to the Shinto god of war, Hachiman.
Aso, in Kumamoto is home to the largest active volcano in the whole of Japan. Mount Nakadake's gasses are so toxic that there’s a 1km exclusion zone around its peak.
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