A Practical Guide to Exploring Off-the-Beaten-Track Japan

The Upgrade by SUITCASE Magazine

Calling upon the expertise of Paul Christie, CEO of trailblazing tour operator Walk Japan, we’ll be spotlighting the Japanese prefectures you (probably) haven’t heard of but should be making tracks to, his top Japanese travel tips and why Japan is leading the way for slow travel. Plus, Paul shares his insider guide to the Kunisaki Peninsula in Kyushu, a bucolic hidden paradise that he calls home.

Our travel editors also share their go-to guide to Iwate, an under-the-radar prefecture filled with blissful beaches, snow-sure mountains and soothing hot springs, and deep-dive into how wellness is key to unlocking Japanese culture.

We want to know where in Japan you’ve set your sights on. Want to hit the ski slopes? Soaking in onsen hot springs more your scene? Or how about slurping soba noodles in Iwate? Share with us your Japan travel plans to be in with the chance of winning a collector’s bundle of SUITCASE Magazine, worth over £100. Simply fill in this survey.

Start planning your trip to Japan with the Japan National Tourism Organisation here.

Our Go-to Guide to Iwate, Japan

To stay:

For relaxing hot springs and beautifully situated boltholes, bed down in one of these hotels: Hotel Senshūkaku, Hotel Hanamaki or Hotel Kōyōkan.

To eat:

For the noodle-lovers out there, we recommend heading full-steam ahead to Pairon Honten in Morioka – a local hole-in-the-wall loved for what is arguably the region’s best jajamen (udon noodles topped with cucumbers, garlic, chilli oil and a sweet miso sauce).

To do:

Sun-seekers should absolutely head to Jodogahama Beach, while skiers should make a beeline for Appi Kogen Ski Resort.

How to get there:

Simply hop on a fast train from Tokyo and in just over two hours you’ll be greeted by the epic scenery and standout food of Iwate.

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https://suitcasemag.com/articles/hachinohe