Japan is a fascinating country with a diverse history, culture, and natural beauty. Most tourists aim to visit big cities like Tokyo or the tranquil temples of Kyoto. But if you want to see a different side of Japan, you should visit some of the best Japan small town that dot the countryside.

These charming places will provide you with a view into the authentic and diversified lives of the Japanese people, as well as some breathtaking landscapes and wonderful attractions. Ahead, we will show you some of the best Japan small town to visit in Japan and why you should include them on your itinerary.

Here are some of the best Japan small town options to visit for your next trip:

Situated beneath the North Japan Alps, Matsumoto charms visitors with its historic ambience and iconic castle. This Nagano's second-largest city sits amidst the picturesque Hida Mountains, blending samurai heritage, folk crafts, arts, and cuisine. Although Matsumoto Castle is its main draw, this town has much more to offer.

Conveniently accessible from Tokyo and Nagano City, you can take the JR Limited Express train to get there. Don't miss attractions like Nawate-dori, Nakamachi, and the City Museum of Art, complemented by adventures like the Alps Crossing Route tour, facilitating exploration beyond the castle's confines.

Address: Nagano, Japan

Located in Japan's Tochigi Prefecture, north of Tokyo, Nikko is where the renowned Toshogu Shrine is located. The infamous shrine was built in 1617 to honour Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founding ruler of the Tokugawa shogunate. Key attractions here are the grand Yomeimon Gate, the main sanctuary surrounded by cedar trees, and Ieyasu's tomb.

Other attractions to visit are Taiyuin, Rinnoji Temple, Tamozawa Villa, the atmospheric Kanmangafuchi Abyss trail, and Futarasan Shrine—they pay homage to Nikko's sacred mountains. If you want a rich glimpse into Japan's historical and cultural legacy, this town is a must-visit—especially when it is just a two-hour train ride away from Tokyo!

Address: Tochigi, Japan

Chatan has a population of around 28,578 people in an area of 13.62 square kilometres. More than half of the town's land is taken up by United States military bases.

If you want to visit this town, several transportation options like buses, taxis, or renting a car make getting around easy. Enjoy Araha Beach, surfing spots along the scenic Miyagi Coast, the well-known American Village, and a shopping area with a Ferris wheel. Moreover, this town also has seaside restaurants and a coastal promenade at Chatan Park Sunset Beach, offering plenty to explore and enjoy.

Address: Nakagami District, Okinawa

Shirakawa is a Japan small town in Ono District famous for Shirakawa-gō, a village with special Gassho-style farmhouses. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with Gokayama in Nanto, it exudes tranquillity amidst remote mountain surroundings with clear water with fish and stunning mountain views.

You can reach the village’s observatory for great views by hiking or taking a shuttle. More shops are open on weekdays, so you can enjoy local food and buy souvenirs. It's a charming village worth visiting during your visit to Shirakawa.

Address: Ono District, Gifu, Japan

Uji is situated south of Kyoto and is steeped in history and culture, with many shrines and temples. Byōdō-in Temple, dating back to the 10th century, features the iconic Phoenix Hall. On top of that, there is the Ujigami Shrine, believed to be Japan's oldest, and the Tale of Genji Museum, which adds to the city's cultural richness.

Famous for its green tea, you can enjoy traditional tea ceremonies at Taihō-an Teahouse. Other attractions include Byodoin Temple and Uji Tea. With Instagrammable spots like Mampukuji Temple and Mimurotoji Temple's flower gardens and the tranquil Uji River flowing through, Uji offers a serene escape from city life.

Address: Kyoto, Japan

Yoshino is the gateway to Mount Yoshino, which is famous for its stunning cherry blossoms in spring. Accessible from Kyoto, the journey to Yoshino takes about 2 hours via the Kintetsu Limited Express or through a JR Pass-covered route via Oji Station.

The town has several prominent cultural treasures, such as Yoshimizu Shrine, showcasing ceramics, paintings, and armour alongside the monumental Kinpusen-ji Temple and Nyoirin-ji Temple. You can also visit the natural hot springs in the area. Other top attractions include Mount Yoshinoyama's cherry blossom-covered slopes, Yoshimizu Shrine, and Chikurin-in Temple's beautiful garden, offering a delightful blend of Japanese nature and culture.

Address: Yoshino District, Nara, Japan

Biei is a spot known for its stunning landscape of hills and vast fields. Perfect for cycling or driving, you can explore flower fields and famous trees along "Patchwork Road" and "Panorama Road." Located between Asahikawa and Furano, Biei is easily accessible by car or train

Popular attractions in the area include the scenic Hokusei Hill Observatory, the Parents and Child Tree, and Shikisai Hill's flower park, where lavender fields bloom. You can also visit the Takushinkan exhibition hall, which showcases stunning Biei landscape photography. Whether by foot, bicycle, or cart, this Japan small town promises a memorable visit.

Address: Kamikawa District, Hokkaido, Japan

Kanazawa is a city rich in history and culture and accessible from other cities via the Shinkansen. The city was once home to the Maeda Clan and thrived during the Edo Period, rivalling Kyoto and Tokyo. Despite escaping World War Two bombings, Kanazawa's preserved districts like Nagamachi offer insights into its past.

Today, it's a vibrant cultural hub, providing attractions like Kenrokuen Garden, known as Japan's best landscape garden, and sites like Ninjadera Temple and the Higashi Chaya District. You can also stroll around the bustling Omicho Market near Kanazawa Station to buy some street food. With its mix of tradition and modernity, Kanazawa appeals to history enthusiasts and art lovers alike.

Address: Ishikawa, Japan

Also known as Mount Koya, the area stands as the heart of Shingon Buddhism. Perched atop a wooded mountaintop, this temple town hosts over one hundred temples with more than 600 monks. Most importantly, this city is easily reachable by train from Osaka.

Some popular sites in Koyasan include Kongobuji, the sect's head monastery, and Okunoin, housing Kobo Daishi's mausoleum. If you’re into cultural attractions, you can even experience temple lodging, partake in vegetarian monk cuisine, and participate in morning prayers, which are offered by around fifty temples.

Address: Koya, Ito District, Wakayama 648-0211, Japan

Miyajima, also known as Itsukushima, is renowned for its iconic torii gate, appearing to float on the water during high tide. You can take a train from Hiroshima to Miyajimaguchi and a ferry to the island.

The island is a peaceful getaway, making it ideal for a romantic escape, especially with occasional wild deer in sight. The island's focal point is Itsukushima Shrine, where main buildings stand above water, creating a picturesque scene. Other popular attractions here include Mount Misen, Daisho-in Temple, and scenic walking trails. You can even rent a kimono to take pictures in the nearby shrines.

Address: Miyajimacho, Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima 739-0588, Japan

These Japan small towns are perfect for travellers who want to experience the country’s charm and diversity beyond the big cities. Whether you are looking for culture or nature, you will find something to love in these small towns. So, next time you plan a trip to Japan, don't forget to include some of these destinations in your itinerary.

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