The Hakone Open-air Museum
Japan’s first open-air museum, founded in 1969, aimed at harmony between nature and art. It has about 120 sculptures spread across a cast landscape of 70,000 m², including classic work by Rodin, Moore, Miro and other world masters of modern and contemporary art.
This is an outdoor sculpture park. The weather wasn't great when I visited, but it's still an awesome place for taking Instagram-worthy photos. Definitely worth a visit if you get the chance!
Takachiho Gorge
Takachiho Gorge is a narrow v-shaped chasm made over thousands of years by the Gokase River’s erosion of Mt. Aso’s volcanic rock. This spectacular place is surrounded by cliffs that average 80 meters in height (reaching up to 100 meters) and extend along for 7 kilometers. Takachiho Gorge has been designated as a National Place of Scenic Beauty.
Entering the land of Japanese deities—Takachiho Gorge is located in Mitai, Takachiho Town, Nishiusuki District, Miyazaki Prefecture. The most famous spot in the gorge is the Manai Falls, which is listed among Japan's top 100 waterfalls and is now designated as a scenic spot and natural monument.
Okunitama-jinja Shrine
A shrine with a history of approximately 1,900 years, dedicated to Okunitama-no-Okami, the guardian deity of the Musashi Province region, which includes Tokyo and parts of Saitama and Kanagawa. The grounds also contain several subsidiary shrines, each associated with different blessings. The shrine is particularly known for warding off misfortune and bringing good relationships.
It's super easy to get here—just a 5-minute walk from Fuchu Station on the Keio Line. The path to the shrine is lined with famous zelkova trees, and right next to Japan's largest granite torii gate, there's a zelkova that's about 400 years old—the oldest one around.
Sensoji Temple
This iconic destination in Asakusa sees as many as 30 million visitors each year. It stands as a well-loved mainstay in Tokyo, all while hosting a number of annual traditions like the first temple visit at New Years, Setsubun and more across the year.
This is the spiritual center for Tokyo’s Edo-era locals and has a long history. The huge red lantern is a super recognizable landmark. With the nearby shopping streets, restaurants, Sumida River, and Tokyo Skytree, plus easy access, the whole area is a great spot for sightseeing.
Akita Nairiku Jukan Tetsudo (Akita Inland Railway)
This railway literally goes across Akita’s inland, connecting almost 94.2km between Takanosu and Kakunodate Stations. The route is along Japan’s traditional local scenery and its beauty puts smiles on locals and tourists. Thus, the name “Smile Rail” for this popular railroad.
The scenery along the way is absolutely beautiful—no wonder this is called one of the most scenic railway routes in Japan. There’s even a cart selling snacks and Akita specialties on board, so you never get bored. The rice paddy art is especially cool, and the view from inside the train is the best angle to see it.
Hakone Shrine
Hakone Shrine sits just steps from Lake Ashi, a spot dotted with coveted Hakone destinations like Owakudani and Togen-dai. The shrine heralds the Hakone Ookami god, and remains one of the most renowned shrines in Kanto.
There's a very famous torii gate by the lake, and the steps are lined with ancient, towering trees. The shrine has over a thousand years of history, and generations of warriors and travelers have come here to pray. Hakone itself is also a super popular travel destination.
