Japan Travel Guide 2026: Hidden Gems & Classics

Post details

Japan Travel Guide 2026: Hidden Gems & Classics

Skip the crowds in Kyoto. We reveal the secret villages, mountain trails, and authentic sushi spots that most tourists miss.

# Japan Travel Guide 2026 Japan is timeless, yet always changing. While Tokyo and Kyoto are must-visits, the real magic lies off the beaten path. ## Beyond the Golden Route Instead of the crowded streets of Gion, try **Kanazawa**. It has the geisha districts and samurai history without the sea of tourists. ## The Japanese Alps Visit **Kamikochi** for breathtaking mountain views that rival Switzerland. The hiking trails here are pristine and accessible. ## Food Culture Don't just eat sushi. Try: - **Okonomiyaki** in Hiroshima - **Takoyaki** in Osaka - **Kaiseki** (traditional multi-course meal) in a Ryokan ## Travel Tips - Get the digital Suica card on your phone before you arrive. - Book Shinkansen tickets 3 weeks in advance for discounts.