Deepen Your Journey: Exploring the Unknown Side of Japan
Beyond the Guidebook: Japan’s Hidden Layers
Even after multiple visits to Japan and thorough exploration of its iconic landmarks, you will likely find that the country still has much more to reveal. Venturing into its lesser-known regions uncovers overlooked history and breathtaking vistas, adding a profound new layer to your understanding of Japan.
In this feature, we have curated a selection of destinations for the seasoned traveler who has moved beyond the standard itinerary. Beyond their wealth of nature, history, and culture, these locations offer quiet, restorative sanctuaries for wellness seekers—from secluded hot springs to soul-stirring outdoor activities. These are the places hidden between the lines of the guidebooks, perfect for those ready to discover Japan’s subtler side.
Table Contents
- Karuizawa: A Sophisticated Social Hub in the Forest
- Kawagoe: A Living Memory of Old Edo
- Kamakura: The Old Samurai Capital, Guarded by the Oceans and Mountains
- Shimoda: The Dawn of Modern Japan
- Manza Onsen: A Sanctuary of Healing at 1,800 Meters
- Towada: Explore the Living Gallery of Nature in Northern Japan
- Furano: The Living Palette of Hokkaido
- Kushiro: Encountering Hokkaido’s Untamed Wilderness
- Lake Biwa: The Spiritual Heart of Japan
- Nichinan: Where Mythology Meets the
Karuizawa: A Sophisticated Social Hub in the Forest
Karuizawa is one of Japan’s most sophisticated mountain retreats. Since the Meiji era (1868-1912), this "cultural forest" has served as a refined social hub. Moving beyond the typical tourist path, travelers here find a restorative sanctuary that seamlessly blends nature with high art.
The landscape is defined by its serene beauty, from the delicate, silk-like veils of Shiraito Falls to the vibrant reflections on the surface of Kumoba Pond. Yet, Karuizawa’s appeal extends far beyond its scenery; it is a haven for the mind, home to world-class art museums and elegant architecture. Whether wandering through its lush woods or exploring its storied history, you will discover a place where the bustle of the city fades into a quiet, dignified grace.
The Prince Karuizawa
The Prince Karuizawa is located close to JR Karuizawa Station, offering seamless Shinkansen access to Tokyo, Nagano, and beyond. Every guest room features stunning views of Mt. Asama, the iconic peak that defines the landscape and culture of the region.
Designed for leisure, the hotel boasts an expansive golf course and delivers an authentic, sophisticated "Karuizawa-style" experience. The picturesque Kumoba Pond and historic Old Karuizawa Ginza Street—renowned for their charming boutiques, galleries, and cafes—are just a short, 10-minute taxi ride away.
Beyond the comfort of in-room dining and the refined atmosphere of Bar WINDSOR, guests can indulge in exquisite French cuisine at the pondside Dining Room Beaux Sejours. Within this elegant space, you can savor a masterfully crafted dinner while enjoying sunset views or a serene breakfast.
The Prince Villa Karuizawa
Ideally situated just steps from JR Karuizawa Station and the Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza, The Prince Villa Karuizawa offers a refined sanctuary for guests to enjoy the natural beauty and culture of the region.
The property features three distinct villa styles: the single-story Terrace Villa with a garden for up to six guests, the spacious two-story Maisonette Villa accommodating eight, and the exclusive Maisonette Spa with an open-air hot spring bath.
At the Center House, courteous hotel staff provide bespoke concierge service to ensure a seamless stay, while the Lounge invites guests to unwind with breakfast, tea time, and light refreshments throughout the day. These amenities create a tranquil environment perfectly suited for spending quality time in a truly sophisticated setting.
Kawagoe: A Living Memory of Old Edo
Just a short journey from Tokyo lies Kawagoe, a city where time seems to have paused, preserving the grandeur of the Edo period (1603-1868). Known affectionately as "Little Edo," its landscape is defined by the striking Kurazukuri district, where traditional black-plastered warehouses line the streets with a sense of historic permanence.
The city’s soul is best captured through the Kawagoe Festival, a vibrant celebration of history. At the Kawagoe Matsuri Kaikan, visitors can experience the majesty of this event year-round through towering festival floats and immersive displays. The spiritual side of the city flourishes at Hikawa Shrine, famous for its beautiful wind chime displays in the summer. With its beautiful townscapes, Kawagoe offers a profound connection to Japan’s storied past.
Kawagoe Prince Hotel
The Kawagoe Prince Hotel serves as the perfect gateway to "Little Edo," with the historic Kurazukuri Street, the iconic Time Bell Tower, and traditional confectionery shops all within easy walking distance. Guests can enjoy “time-travel” photography set against the backdrop of Kawagoe’s historic townscape. Directly connected to Hon-Kawagoe Station, the hotel offers effortless access to Shinjuku in central in just 45 minutes by limited express train.
On-site, guests can choose from five distinct dining venues offering authentic Japanese and Chinese cuisine, or enjoy a relaxed coffee break and exquisite desserts at the Lobby Lounge. To make your stay even more memorable, the hotel offers a variety of seasonal experiences unique to Kawagoe, inviting you to step away from everyday life and enjoy moments that will linger in your heart.
Kamakura: The Old Samurai Capital, Guarded by the Oceans and Mountains
Located within a natural fortress—walled in by rugged mountains on three sides and guarded by the shimmering Pacific on the fourth—Kamakura embodies Japan’s medieval heritage. As the former seat of the Shogunate between 1185 and 1333, the city’s atmosphere is defined by the stoic beauty and disciplined aesthetics of samurai culture.
The heart of Kamakura’s spiritual landscape lies in its Zen temples, such as the venerable Kenchoji and Engakuji, where minimalist architecture and meticulously raked gravel gardens reflect the pursuit of enlightenment. Beyond the iconic Great Buddha, the city’s winding trails lead to hidden shrines and moss-covered monuments that have stood for centuries. Whether wandering through the bamboo groves or looking out over the Sagami Bay, visitors discover a timeless harmony between history and nature.
Kamakura Prince Hotel
Located near Shichirigahama Beach, Kamakura Prince Hotel offers oceanfront guest rooms with stunning views of Sagami Bay, Enoshima Island, and Mt. Fuji. The hotel is the perfect base for exploring Kamakura’s Zen temples, hiking trails, and the vibrant local dining scene, where passionate chefs are defining the city’s relaxed beachside identity.
Dining options include the French restaurant Restaurant Le Trianon, which uses seasonal ingredients and locally sourced produce, and Onzoshi Kiyoyasutei, a restaurant specializing in seasonal kaiseki (traditional multi-course Japanese cuisine). For lighter meals, we recommend the Lounge Ajisai, which serves desserts and tea during the day and a refined bar menu in the evening. All are set in serene spaces inspired by the city’s iconic June hydrangea scenery.
Shimoda: The Dawn of Modern Japan
Shimoda holds a pivotal place in history as the site where Japan’s centuries of isolation finally ended. Following the arrival of Commodore Perry’s "Black Ships," this coastal town became the stage for the country’s opening to the world, marking the very beginning of modern Japan. Today, travelers can walk through history along Perry Road, a charming path lined with traditional Namako-wall warehouses—distinctive for their white lattice patterns—and quaint stone bridges.
The area is equally defined by its breathtaking natural beauty. Beyond the historic monuments, Shimoda offers stunning ocean views and crystal-clear waters. This coastal allure extends to nearby Kawana on the eastern Izu Peninsula. Facing the expansive Sagami Bay, Kawana is a premier resort destination celebrated for its pristine seas and world-class scenery. Together, these locales offer a perfect blend of transformative history and the restorative power of the ocean.
Shimoda Prince Hotel
Overlooking the pristine white sands of Shirahama Beach, Shimoda Prince Hotel offers spectacular ocean sunrises and a wealth of seasonal seaside activities. Guests can enjoy sea kayaking or take advantage of an all-inclusive snorkeling package to Hirizo Beach, a site renowned for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant underwater vistas. This convenient package covers hotel transportation, boat tickets, and equipment rental (available exclusively in July and August).
The hotel features three distinct dining venues to suit every palate. Sushi Rau showcases the fresh catch of Sagami Bay, while the Main Dining Room Kamome serves a diverse range of international cuisines. For those relaxing outdoors, the Two Tails café by the garden pools provides the perfect spot for light meals and refreshments.
Kawana Hotel
Steeped in history, Kawana Hotel dates back to the 1920s when it was established by Baron Kishichiro Okura. Following the completion of the Oshima Golf Course in 1928, the property officially opened as a hotel in 1936, quickly becoming a prestigious destination for celebrities, world leaders, and golfers alike. The Fuji Course consistently features as one of the world’s top 100 golf courses in U.S. magazines. To this day, the hotel remains a symbol of elegance and a legendary retreat for those seeking a truly distinguished atmosphere.
The hotel faces the Sagami-nada Sea, offering a breathtaking panorama that encompasses Mt. Fuji, the Tanzawa mountain range, and the Izu Islands. For the most spectacular vistas, the glass-encased Sun Parlor Lounge juts out toward the sea, providing a tranquil setting of timeless elegance for a refined afternoon tea. Guests can also enjoy refined French and Japanese cuisine or a casual meal at The Grill.
A stay at Kawana Hotel is an invitation to experience the same timeless prestige and quality that has captivated international guests for nearly a century.
Manza Onsen: A Sanctuary of Healing at 1,800 Meters
Perched at an altitude of 1,800 meters, Manza Onsen offers a profound encounter with Japan’s ancient hot spring culture. Known for having some of the highest sulfur concentrations in the country, these milky-white waters are celebrated for their therapeutic properties and life-giving minerals. Here, the modern world fades away, replaced by the primal sounds of whistling mountain winds and the rhythmic hiss of volcanic steam vents.
As night falls, the lack of light pollution reveals an overwhelming canopy of stars, providing a breathtaking backdrop for a soul-nourishing soak. Beyond the baths, the rugged landscape invites exploration; enjoy hiking and leisurely walks in the magnificent natural surroundings of Joshin'etsu-kogen National Park, where you can experience the changing seasons. Manza is a place where nature’s raw power and quiet serenity harmonize to heal both body and spirit.
Manza Prince Hotel
Manza Prince Hotel offers a high-altitude retreat featuring both Japanese and Western-style accommodations. The resort’s centerpiece is its collection of blissful hot spring baths, ranging from private baths with snowy views to expansive open-air tubs.
A highlight is Komakusa no Yu, a popular mixed-gender bathing area where families and couples can soak together while wearing yuami-gi bathing suits. For a quintessential Japanese experience, adults can even enjoy local sake while relaxing in the private hot springs.
With three dining venues featuring buffet and course-style dining, the hotel provides a complete resort experience amidst spectacular mountain scenery. Whether you are drawn by the healing waters or the dramatic alpine landscape, Manza Prince Hotel offers a serene escape in every season, making it the perfect destination for hot spring enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Towada: Explore the Living Gallery of Nature in Northern Japan
The Lake Towada area is a masterpiece of ancient elemental beauty, where water serves as the primary artist. The region is defined by the profound, sapphire-blue depths of Lake Towada and the dynamic energy of the Oirase Stream, where rushing white rapids contrast beautifully with the velvet-soft moss coating the river’s stones.
Exploration here is an immersive experience: visitors can enjoy canoeing on the mirror-like lake surface or cycling along the shaded forest paths of the gorge. After a day of adventure, our local lakeside hotel offers a serene retreat, where guests can enjoy refined hospitality while gazing out at the shifting colors of the water.
Towada Prince Hotel
Situated on the western shore of Lake Towada, Towada Prince Hotel offers magnificent views of the lake and the surrounding Hakkoda peaks. Just a 30-minute drive from the famous Oirase mountain streams, the hotel serves as the premier base for exploring the region’s stunning natural beauty, from the fresh greenery of May to the brilliant autumn foliage of October.
The culinary experience is a true highlight, centered on the concept of a "French-style lakeside inn." Guests can enjoy dinner in the Main Dining Room, featuring local delicacies such as Lake Towada kokanee salmon. During the pleasant mornings of spring and autumn, breakfast is served outdoors in the private garden, allowing guests to dine amidst the shimmering sunlight reflected off the water.
Complete with an open-air hot spring bath, the hotel provides a serene location for those seeking wellness and relaxation in every season.
Furano: The Living Palette of Hokkaido
In Furano, the earth itself becomes a vibrant canvas. This region is famed for its rolling hills carpeted in purple lavender and seasonal blooms, set against the dramatic, jagged backdrop of the Tokachi Mountain Range. What makes Furano truly unique is the seamless harmony between man and nature; here, the meticulously tended agricultural patches blend into the raw, untouched wilderness without a visible boundary.
A visit here is a journey into the soul of the land. It is an opportunity to savor the stories behind the harvest by tasting world-class wines and fresh produce, each reflecting the deep-rooted philosophy of the local farmers. Every season paints a new masterpiece: from the fragrant, floral summers to the pristine, diamond-dust winters that transform the landscape into a snowy sanctuary.
Shin Furano Prince Hotel
Shin Furano Prince Hotel is a premier resort surrounded by the lush wilderness of Furano and the spectacular Tokachi mountain range. This retreat is designed for total immersion in nature, offering a peaceful escape where the great outdoors meets deep relaxation.
A highlight of the resort is the Furano Hot Spring Shisai no Yu, where mineral-rich waters drawn from 1,010 meters underground provide a gentle, stress-relieving soak. Guests can unwind in the open-air bath beneath a canopy of stars or rejuvenate in the Finnish-style sauna featuring automatic löyly steam. For further pampering, the Relaxation Corner offers aromatherapy massages and foot care to soothe travel fatigue. Beyond the spa, guests can enjoy year-round craft workshops and boutique shopping at the charming Ningle Terrace, a collection of rustic forest cabins.
The hotel features several diverse dining venues, ranging from authentic Japanese cuisine to Western-style buffets and refined café options. For a truly unique experience, some restaurants are tucked away in the surrounding woods, accessible via scenic forest paths where light filters beautifully through the foliage.
Kushiro: Encountering Hokkaido’s Untamed Wilderness
Kushiro serves as the gateway to the raw, majestic landscapes of Eastern Hokkaido, being home to wetlands and rare wildlife. At its heart lies the Kushiro Marsh, Japan’s largest wetland, where the horizon stretches endlessly in a mosaic of water and greenery. This region is world-renowned as the home of the Red-crowned Crane (Tancho), a symbol of longevity and grace that can be observed dancing across the snowy fields or nesting in the quiet reeds.
The best way to immerse yourself in this "Wild Japan" is through a silent canoe expedition along the meandering rivers of the marsh, offering a front-row seat to the local ecosystem. For those wishing to explore further, the volcanic beauty of Lake Akan is within reach, famous for its mysterious Marimo algae.
Kushiro Prince Hotel
Kushiro Prince Hotel boasts a prime waterfront location in Kushiro City, famous for offering views of one of the world’s three most beautiful sunsets. Guests staying in the high-floor guest rooms (15th and 16th floors) enjoy a front-row seat to these magnificent evening colors.
On the top floor, the hotel's signature restaurant, “Top of Kushiro,” is located on the top floor, serving cuisine that incorporates Hokkaido's abundant ingredients. Guests can enjoy a buffet-style breakfast, à la carte lunch, and elegant Western-style course dinners or carefully selected set meals, all against the backdrop of panoramic city views.
The hotel serves as an ideal gateway to the region’s untamed wilderness. The Kushiro Wetlands are just a 40-minute drive away, offering year-round beauty best explored via relaxing canoe tours.
From mid-November to mid-March, nature enthusiasts can join tours to Tsurui Village to witness the graceful red-crowned cranes. During the peak of winter, as many as 200 of these majestic birds gather here—a mysterious and breathtaking sight. These excursions can be easily arranged through the hotel, providing a glimpse into the natural wonders of eastern Hokkaido.
Lake Biwa: The Spiritual Heart of Japan
Often described as the "heart" of Japanese culture, the Lake Biwa area has served for centuries as a vital water corridor connecting people and traditions. Neighboring Kyoto to the east, this region is a profound spiritual landscape where ancient water deity worship thrives—most notably on the sacred island of Chikubushima—and where numerous temples dedicated to Kannon (the Goddess of Mercy) offer a glimpse into Japan’s deep religious roots.
The area is also a culinary sanctuary, famous for its unique fermented food culture, including the historic funazushi, which reflects a philosophy of living in harmony with the lake’s cycles. In Otsu, the historic gateway to the lake, visitors can encounter a rich legacy of craftsmanship and traditional merchant culture. A journey around Lake Biwa reveals the quiet, enduring soul of Japan.
Lake Biwa Otsu Prince Hotel
The 38-story Lake Biwa Otsu Prince Hotel is a striking lakeside resort offering panoramic views from every guest room. Its prime location is just two stops (9 minutes) from JR Kyoto Station, making it an ideal base for exploring both the historic treasures of Kyoto and the natural beauty of Lake Biwa.
The resort offers seamless access to the region’s best attractions. Guests can board the Biwako Cruise directly from the pier in front of the hotel to enjoy spectacular water views and discover the lake's profound influence on Japanese culture. For a mountain perspective, Biwako Valley is a 40-minute drive away; a scenic gondola ride takes guests to 1,100 meters, where the Biwako Terrace provides a breathtaking vista of the entire southern basin.
Culinary excellence is a hallmark of the hotel, which features six dining venues specializing in Japanese, French, and international cuisine. For a more relaxed experience, guests can enjoy a lakeside barbecue at the Lakeside Garden.
While the surrounding Otsu area is steeped in history, the Lake Biwa Otsu Prince Hotel offers an ultra-modern, luxurious retreat that provides the most stunning perspectives of Japan’s largest lake.
Nichinan: Where Mythology Meets the Ocean
In the sun-drenched region of Nichinan in Miyazaki Prefecture, the boundary between ancient legend and natural wonder dissolves. This area is the cradle of the Hyuga myths, where gods are said to have walked the earth. The most striking testament to this is Udo Jingu Shrine, a brilliant vermilion sanctuary built inside a cave on a jagged cliffside. Below, the coast features the Ogre’s Washboard, a mesmerizing geological formation of perfectly parallel basalt strata carved by the relentless Pacific waves.
Adventure here is deeply connected to the ocean. In the Nango area, visitors can board underwater sightseeing boats to marvel at vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish without getting wet. Whether tossing good luck stones into the surf at Udo Jingu or exploring the subtropical marine life, Nichinan offers a vibrant, soul-nourishing journey through the very roots of Japanese spirituality and coastal beauty.
Nichinankaigan Nango Prince Hotel
Located on a serene beach at the southern edge of Nichinan Kaigan Quasi-National Park, the Nichinankaigan Nango Prince Hotel faces a tranquil beach and is a bright, spacious retreat with unobstructed views of the ocean and Oshima Island from every guest room and the restaurant.
The resort is a premier destination for water sports. On the beach, which feels private and exclusive, you can try clear-boat rides, stand-up paddleboarding, or snorkeling among colorful sea life. During the summer, the outdoor pool provides the perfect spot to soak up Miyazaki’s tropical sunshine.
The Shishinoyu open-air bath allows guests to unwind while listening to the waves and gazing out at the blue expanse of the Nichinan coast.
The beach-facing hotel restaurant serves meals prepared with carefully selected local ingredients. The entire facility, designed to blend with the surrounding environment, offers an experience of becoming one with nature under Miyazaki’s warm sunlight.
Discover the Unseen Japan
The destinations featured in this guide—from the mystical marshes of Kushiro to the sun-drenched myths of Nichinan—offer far more than simple sightseeing. They represent the quiet, sophisticated, and soul-nourishing side of Japan that remains hidden from the average traveler. By venturing beyond the familiar, you will uncover a country rich in restorative nature, deep-rooted history, and refined culture.
To truly immerse yourself in these extraordinary landscapes, choose the Seibu Prince Hotels & Resorts as your lodging. Experience unparalleled hospitality and elegance by booking your room today, and begin your journey into Japan’s subtler side.
Hotels Featured in This Article
