Category: 47 Prefectures

Mt Fuji in the background of a historical village in the spring, showing when is the best time to visit Japan.

Best Time to Visit Japan: Nine Great Regions!

Japan is famous for its numerous beautiful natural landscapes and its ancient cultural traditions, which are still preserved today. Is now the best time to visit Japan? Let’s explore the nine regions of this nation and what makes each unique.

Two people riding kayaks among cliffs in the Kyushu region.

Kyushu Region: The Subtropical Island of Japan!

The Kyushu region in southern Japan offers natural beauty, rich history, and culinary delights. Comprising seven prefectures, Kyushu is full of attractions, from cities and volcanoes to hot springs and local food.

Asahi-dake one of many snowy mountains in Hokkaido.

Hokkaido ken: Japan’s Enchanting Northern Region 

Hokkaido-ken is a captivating destination, especially during the winter months. Known for its stunning landscapes and snow-covered beauty, this area offers the perfect cozy escape for the holiday season.

Himeiji Castle at night.

Kansai Region: Japan’s Amazing Western Area!  

The Kansai (関西) region in western Japan is the second-most populated area after the Kanto region. Despite this, it is likely the most culturally diverse area—even more so than Tokyo. It has an extraordinary mixture of historical and natural attractions. 

A torii gate in Lake Biwa, Shiga Prefecture.

Shiga Prefecture: Discovering Western Japan’s Treasures

Shiga (滋賀県) is a landlocked prefecture in the Kansai region of Japan. It is surrounded by Kyoto, Gifu, Mie, and Fukui Prefectures and has no access to the sea. Shiga may have no coastline, but its fantastic history has resulted in a disproportionate number of historical sites.

A abstract statue of two people embracing each other Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden in Hyogo Prefecture?

Hyogo Prefecture: The Gateway to Western Japan

In western Japan, Hyogo Prefecture (兵庫県) is one of the more overlooked prefectures. Neighboring Kyoto often steals the spotlight with its more famous cities of Kyoto and Osaka. But Hyogo also has much to offer.