Naoshima’s outdoor exhibits are most enjoyable when the weather is pleasant. This means that spring, early summer and late autumn is the best time. The window of opportunity also coincides with the Setouchi Triennale 2025The festival is held every three years on a variety of islands and features a wide range of contemporary art. Seto Inland Sea (tickets for the fall sessionFrom September 1 to 11, are now available. You can get to Naoshima by taking the train from Kyoto Station, Shin-Osaka Station or Okayama Station to Uno Port. Then you take a car to Honmura Port. Stay at the sleek Hotel if you want to relax after your trip. Naoshima Ryokan ROKAYou’ll find 11 minimalist rooms made of wood, tatami, washi and other natural materials. There are also wonderful sunken tubs that have walls of glass and open onto green views.
Hiroshima: a part of world history
Hiroshima This is a must-see for all visitors to Japan. The city was almost completely destroyed by World War II, when the United States detonated one of the two atomic bombs (the other, which exploded on the island Kyushu, in Nagasaki) in 1945. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is home to the ruins from Genbaku Dome. This was one of the last buildings standing following the historical event. Lara from First in Service describes the dome, park and city as “a powerful symbol for peace and rebirth.” It is a place that will appeal to those who are interested in the deeper currents in history and human endurance.
Lara suggests spending some time at the Peace Memorial Park. You can also visit the Genbaku Dome and take a ferry to Miyajima Island where you will see the Itsukushima Shrine’s floating torii. It’s ideal for culture-curious travelers, history lovers, and anyone looking for a journey with a deeper meaning than just beautiful landscapes, says Lara. In addition, there are numerous things to do in HiroshimaLike visiting Hiroshima CastleStaying at the beautiful IwasoA traditional ryokan located in the heart of Tokyo.
Yakushima: a natural escape
Visit the for a rare sighting in Japan. Yakushima, one of the lush subtropical Ōsumi Islands in southern Japan. Greenfield-Turk Global Travel Moments This natural sanctuary is home to 7,000 year-old cedar trees, misty paths, and rich biodiversity. “The slow and elegant island life lends itself well to beautiful local food, such as flying fish and island-grown tea.” The Gilmans in JapanQuest Journeys It’s perfect for outdoor adventures. “From multi-day treks in moss-covered terrains to exploring coastal paths and enjoying the rugged beauty of the island.”
Yakushima is a year-round destination, and you can plan your trip around the temperatures you prefer: springtime in Yakushima offers pleasant temperatures.April Sea turtles laying eggs on beaches (April and May).June In the fall, you can expect cooler temperatures and better visibility. Yakushima is a short flight away or you can take a scenic ferry from Kagoshima, is a seaside town in Kyushu, Japan’s southernmost major island. The Gilmans and Greenfield-Turk recommend that you book a room in Sankara Hotel & Spa YakushimaThe, a luxury hilltop retreat with ocean views. A culinary program that combines French technique with island seasonal produce.
Kiso Valley for history enthusiasts
Kiso Valley is a great destination for travelers who enjoy a step back in time. The Gilmans are a family of explorers. JapanQuest Journeys recommend it for the preserved Edo-period post towns and the Nakasendō, a historic route that connected the de facto capital of Japan at Edo (modern-day TokyoThe scenic mountains and trails are also a great way to get from Kyoto. The Gilmans claim that the Kiso Valley is a great place for those seeking a quiet escape from city life, as well as a taste of rural Japan and its local culture and traditional crafts.
