Table of contents
Welcome to Japan’s Serene Villages 1. Shirakawa-go, Gifu Prefecture 2. Ouchi-juku, Fukushima Prefecture 3. Miyama Kayabuki no Sato, Miyama Town, Kyoto Prefecture 4. Ine no Funaya, Ine Town, Kyoto Prefecture 5. Setogawa Canal & Shirakabe Dozo Street – Hida-Furukawa, Gifu 6. Magome-juku & Tsumago-juku – Kiso Valley, Nagano 7. Narai-juku – Kiso Valley, Nagano 8. Gokayama – Toyama 9. Taketomi Island, Okinawa Prefecture 10. Hagi Castle Town・Yamaguchi Prefecture 11. Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter, Okayama Prefecture 12. Kakunodate Samurai Residences, Akita Prefecture Go on a journey to experience Japan's hidden charms
Welcome to Japan’s Serene Villages
Japan is not only home to bustling metropolises like Tokyo and Osaka, but also to countless hidden villages where time seems to stand still. These quiet villages, nestled in nature, preserve traditional lifestyles that offer an authentic experience of Japan—something you can’t find in the cities.
In this article, we’ll introduce 12 beautiful and unique villages perfect for travelers seeking deep cultural immersion and off-the-beaten-path adventures.
The Charm of Japan’s Hidden Villages
These “hidden villages” are small rural communities steeped in history and surrounded by nature. Each one treasures centuries-old traditions that have been lovingly preserved.
From traditional architecture and seasonal festivals to heartwarming encounters with locals, a visit to these villages feels like stepping into a Japanese folktale.
Why Explore Hidden Villages?
Traveling to a hidden village is like stepping back in time. It’s an opportunity to witness traditional Japanese architecture, enjoy local delicacies, and participate in time-honored customs. These villages often host festivals and events that celebrate their unique heritage, offering visitors a deeper understanding of Japan’s cultural roots. By choosing to explore these hidden gems, you’re also supporting local communities and helping to preserve their way of life.
1. Shirakawa-go, Gifu Prefecture
Shirakawa-go is a UNESCO World Heritage site nestled in the Shōkawa Valley, famous for its iconic gassho-zukuri farmhouses with steep thatched roofs resembling hands in prayer. In winter, when the village is blanketed in snow, the scene becomes truly magical.
Strolling through Shirakawa-go offers a glimpse into traditional rural life in Japan. Many of the historic homes have been converted into charming inns where you can stay overnight. Don’t miss the chance to try local specialties like Hida beef or take a soba-making workshop.
For a panoramic view, head to the observatory just outside the village.
[Access]
❶ By Train + Bus
⑴ Tokyo Station : Hokuriku Shinkansen → Toyama Station → express bus → Shirakawa-go Bus Terminal (approx. 4 hours)
⑵ Osaka Station : JR Thunderbird Limited Express → Kanazawa Station → express bus → Shirakawa-go (approx. 4 hr 15 min)⑶From Nagoya : JR Wide View Hida Limited Express → Takayama Station → express bus → Shirakawa-go (approx. 3 hr 25 min)
❷ By Bus
⑴ Nagoya Station (Meitetsu Bus Center) : approx. 2 hr 50 min
⑵ Kanazawa Station : approx. 1 hr 20 min
❸ By Air
⑴ Haneda Airport : ANA → Toyama Airport → local bus → Toyama Station → express bus → Shirakawa-go (approx. 2 hr 55 min)
⑵ Haneda Airport : JAL/ANA → Komatsu Airport → limousine bus → Kanazawa Station → express bus (approx. 3 hr 15 min)
⑶ Fukuoka Airport : ANA → Komatsu Airport → Kanazawa Station → express bus (approx. 3 hr 15 min)
2. Ouchi-juku, Fukushima Prefecture
Unlike Shirakawa-go, Ouchi-juku is a former post town with thatched-roof houses symmetrically aligned along an old trade route. Once a bustling rest stop during the Edo period, today it feels like an open-air museum where time has frozen.
The main street is lined with traditional shops selling handmade crafts and local food, perfect for a leisurely stroll. One must-try local specialty is Negi Soba , a unique dish eaten using a long green onion in place of chopsticks.
If you're lucky enough to visit during the annual snow festival, you'll see stunning snow sculptures and traditional performances. For a scenic view, climb to the viewpoint at the end of the street.
[Access]
By Train + Car
⑴ Tobu Asakusa Station → Shin-Fujiwara → Aizu-Kogen Ozeguchi → Yunokami Onsen → 10 min by car (approx. 3 hr 30 min)⑵ Tokyo Station : Tohoku Shinkansen → Koriyama → Aizu-Wakamatsu → Yunokami Onsen → 10 min by car (approx. 3 hr 30 min)
Shared shuttle bus available More info (Japanese)
3. Miyama Kayabuki no Sato, Miyama Town, Kyoto Prefecture
Miyama is a peaceful hidden retreat known for its well-preserved thatched-roof homes. Just a short trip from Kyoto, this village offers an authentic taste of traditional rural life.
Join a guided tour to learn about the architecture and history of the houses, or take part in seasonal farming experiences. The village is also known for its fresh river fish and locally grown vegetables, which can be savored at cozy inns throughout the area.
[Access]
JR Kyoto Station → Sonobe Station → Hiyoshi Station → local bus → Kita Bus Stop (approx. 2 hours)
4. Ine no Funaya, Ine Town, Kyoto Prefecture
Ine Town, also known as the "Venice" of Japan, is famous for its traditional boathouses that line the waterfront. This picturesque fishing village is a unique opportunity to experience Japan's maritime culture. Tourists can enjoy a pleasure boat tour that offers stunning views of the bay and the surrounding mountains. Ine Town is a great place for seafood lovers, where you can enjoy fresh seafood. Try the famous seafood bowl. Staying in a boathouse provides a unique experience, with the soothing sounds of the waves helping to ease your travel fatigue.
[Access]
❶By train
⑴Osaka Station <JR Fukuchiyama Line> → Fukuchiyama Station <Kyoto Tango Railway> → Amanohashidate Station <Tango Kairiku Kotsu Bus> → Ine (approximately 3 hours 10 minutes)
⑵Osaka Station <JR Fukuchiyama Line> → Fukuchiyama Station <Kyoto Tango Railway> → Miyazu Station <Kyoto Tango Railway> → Amanohashidate Station <Tango Kairiku Kotsu Bus> → Ine (approximately 3 hours 10 minutes)
⑶Osaka Station <JR Fukuchiyama Line> → Fukuchiyama Station <Kyoto Tango Railway> → Miyazu Station <Tango Kairiku Kotsu Bus> → Ine (approximately 3 hours 5 minutes)
⑷ Kyoto Station <JR Sanin Main Line/Kyoto Tango Railway> → Amanohashidate Station <Tango Kairiku Kotsu Bus> → Ine (Approximately 2 hours 10 minutes)
⑸ Kyoto Station <JR Sanin Main Line/Kyoto Tango Railway> → Miyazu Station <Kyoto Tango Railway> → Amanohashidate Station <Tango Kairiku Kotsu Bus> → Ine (Approximately 3 hours)
⑹ Kyoto Station <JR Sanin Main Line/Kyoto Tango Railway> → Miyazu Station <Tango Kairiku Kotsu Bus> → Ine (Approximately 3 hours)
⑺ Kyoto Station <JR Fukuchiyama Line> → Fukuchiyama Station <Kyoto Tango Railway> → Miyazu Station <Tango Kairiku Kotsu Bus> → Ine (Approximately 3 hours)
❷ By express bus
Kyoto Station → Amanohashidate *Reservation required (Approximately 2 hours)
5. Setogawa Canal & Shirakabe Dozo Street – Hida-Furukawa, Gifu
Hida-Furukawa is a charming town known for its beautifully preserved Edo-period streets and traditional crafts. Compared to nearby Takayama, it receives fewer tourists, offering a quieter atmosphere while still providing a rich cultural experience. The town is especially famous for the annual Furukawa Festival, where visitors can see intricately carved wooden floats and traditional lion dances. While there, enjoy cycling through the countryside, tasting local sake, or strolling along the Setogawa canal lined with traditional white-walled storehouses.
【Access】
❶By Train ⑴Tokyo Station ＜Tokaido or Hokuriku Shinkansen＞ → Nagoya or Toyama Station ＜Takayama Line＞ → Hida-Furukawa Station (Approx. 4.5 hrs)
⑵Osaka Station ＜Tokaido Shinkansen＞ → Nagoya Station ＜Takayama Line＞ → Hida-Furukawa Station (Approx. 4 hrs 20 min)
⑶Nagoya Station ＜Takayama Line＞ → Hida-Furukawa Station (Approx. 2 hrs 40 min)
⑷Toyama Station ＜Takayama Line＞ → Hida-Furukawa Station (Approx. 1 hr 15 min)
❷By Bus Nagoya Station ＜JR Tokai Bus / Meitetsu Bus / Nohi Bus＞ (Approx. 2 hrs 45 min)
6. Magome-juku & Tsumago-juku – Kiso Valley, Nagano
Magome and Tsumago are two post towns along the Nakasendo Trail that offer a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past. The walking trail between the towns is a popular activity for enjoying the stunning landscapes of the Kiso Valley. Both towns retain their Edo-period charm, with cobblestone streets lined with traditional inns, shops, and teahouses. Sample local chestnut sweets and stay in a traditional guesthouse to experience authentic hospitality.
※Walking between Magome and Tsumago takes about 3 hours.
【Access】
❶By Train
⑴Tokyo Station ＜Tokaido Shinkansen＞ → Nagoya Station ＜Ltd. Express Shinano＞ → Nagiso Station (Approx. 2 hrs 40 min)
⑵Shinjuku Station ＜Ltd. Express Azusa＞ → Shiojiri Station ＜Ltd. Express Shinano＞ → Nagiso Station (Approx. 3 hrs 52 min)
⑶Shin-Osaka Station ＜Tokaido Shinkansen＞ → Nagoya Station ＜Ltd. Express Shinano＞ → Nagiso Station (Approx. 1 hr 55 min)
❷By Bus
⑴Shinjuku Station ＜JR Tokai Bus＞ → Magome → (20 min walk from Kamisaka P.A.) → Magome-juku → (local bus) → Tsumago-juku (Approx. 5 hrs 5 min)
⑵Osaka Umeda ＜Hankyu Bus＞ → Komaba → (local bus) → Magome → (20 min walk from Kamisaka P.A.) → Magome-juku → (local bus) → Tsumago-juku (Approx. 5 hrs 5 min)
7. Narai-juku – Kiso Valley, Nagano
Narai-juku, one of the post towns on the Nakasendo Trail, is often referred to as “Narai of a Thousand Houses” due to its long stretch of traditional wooden buildings. With its well-preserved architecture and quiet atmosphere, it offers a glimpse into Japan’s historical charm. Visitors can explore historic sites such as the Nakamura Residence and Kamidonya Museum. Narai is also known for its lacquerware and woodcrafts—perfect for finding a unique souvenir.
【Access】
By Train
⑴Shinjuku Station ＜JR Chuo Main Line＞ → Shiojiri Station ＜JR Chuo Main Line＞ → Narai Station (Approx. 3 hrs 10 min)
⑵Nagoya Station ＜JR Chuo Main Line＞ → Kiso-Fukushima Station ＜JR Chuo Main Line＞ → Narai Station (Approx. 2 hrs)
8. Gokayama – Toyama
Gokayama, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famous for its gassho-zukuri farmhouses, similar to those in Shirakawa-go but with fewer tourists and a more peaceful setting. The villages of Ainokura and Suganuma offer a glimpse into traditional rural life in Japan. You can learn the art of traditional papermaking or enjoy regional delicacies such as mountain vegetables and trout sushi. The scenic beauty and cultural heritage of Gokayama make it a must-visit for those seeking an authentic Japanese experience.
【Access】
❶By train
⑴Tokyo Station <Hokuriku Shinkansen> → Toyama Station <Ainokaze Toyama Railway> → Takaoka Station <JR Johana Line or World Heritage Bus> → Johana Station <World Heritage Bus> → Ainokuraguchi bus stop ☆nearest to Ainokura village☆ → Suganuma bus stop ☆nearest to Suganuma village☆
(Approximately 4 hours)
⑵Tokyo Station <Hokuriku Shinkansen> → Shin-Takaoka Station <JR Johana Line or World Heritage Bus> Johana Station <World Heritage Bus> → Ainokuraguchi bus stop ☆nearest to Suganuma village☆ Kuraguchi bus stop ☆ Closest to Ainokura village ☆ → Suganuma bus stop ☆ Closest to Suganuma village ☆ (Approximately 4 hours 40 minutes)
⑶ Osaka Station <Thunderbird> → Tsuruga Station <Hokuriku Shinkansen> → Shin-Takaoka Station <JR Johana Line or World Heritage Bus> Johana Station <World Heritage Bus> → Ainokuraguchi bus stop ☆ Closest to Ainokura village ☆ → Suganuma bus stop ☆ Closest to Suganuma village ☆ (Approximately 3 hours 50 minutes)
⑷ Osaka Station <Thunderbird> → Tsuruga Station <Hokuriku Shinkansen> → Kanazawa Station <Gokayama Suganuma Hokutetsu bus ⚠︎ Reservation required> → Gokayama Suganuma bus stop ⚠︎ Closed from December to March ☆Closest to Suganuma Village☆ → Ainokuraguchi Bus Stop ☆Closest to Ainokura Village☆ (Approximately 3 hours 35 minutes)
⑸Nagoya Station <Shirasagi> → Kanazawa Station <Hokuriku Shinkansen> → Shin-Takaoka Station <JR Johana Line or World Heritage Bus> Johana Station <World Heritage Bus> → Ainokuraguchi Bus Stop ☆Closest to Ainokura Village☆ → Suganuma Bus Stop ☆Closest to Suganuma Village☆ (Approximately 4 hours 40 minutes)
❷By bus
⑴Nagoya Meitetsu Bus Center <Gifu Bus ⚠︎ Reservation Required> → Shirakawa-go Bus Terminal <World Heritage Bus> → Suganuma Bus Stop ☆Closest to Suganuma Village☆ →Ainokuraguchi bus stop ☆ Closest to Ainokura village ☆ (Approximately 2 hours 50 minutes)
⑵ Nagoya/Nagoya Midland Square (Kitokito Liner ⚠︎ Reservation required) → Gokayama Interchange bus stop → Suganuma Gassho-style village
❸ By plane
⑴ Haneda Airport (ANA) → Toyama Station (Airport shuttle bus) → Toyama Station Toyama Station (Ainokaze Toyama Railway) → Takaoka Station (JR Johana Line or World Heritage Bus) → Johana Station (World Heritage Bus) → Ainokuraguchi bus stop ☆ Closest to Ainokura village ☆ → Suganuma bus stop ☆ Closest to Suganuma village ☆ (Approximately 3 hours)
9. Taketomi Island, Okinawa Prefecture
Taketomi Island is a small island in Okinawa known for its traditional Ryukyu-style settlements and beautiful beaches. The red-roofed houses and white sand roads create a unique landscape that sets it apart from the mainland. Explore the island by bicycle or buffalo cart, visit the star-shaped sand beach of Kaiji Beach, and enjoy traditional Okinawan cuisine. Taketomi Island offers a space to relax and unwind while experiencing the unique culture.
【Access】
By Plane
⑴Haneda Airport <JAL/ANA> → Ishigaki Island <Ferry> → Taketomi Island (Approximately 3 hours 45 minutes)
⑵Narita Airport <peach> → Ishigaki Island <Ferry> → Taketomi Island (Approximately 4 hours 25 minutes)
⑶Kansai Airport <JTA/ANA/peach＞→Ishigaki Island＜Ferry＞→Taketomi Island (Approximately 3 hours 15 minutes)
⑷Central Japan International Airport＜ANA＞→Ishigaki Island＜Ferry＞→Taketomi Island (Approximately 3 hours 25 minutes)
⑸Fukuoka Airport＜peach＞→Ishigaki Island＜Ferry＞→Taketomi Island (Approximately 2 hours 40 minutes)
⑹Naha Airport＜JTA・ANA・Solaseed Air＞→Ishigaki Island＜Ferry＞→Taketomi Island (Approximately 1 hour 40 minutes)
10. Hagi Castle Town・Yamaguchi Prefecture
Hagi is a historic castle town known for its well-preserved samurai residences and beautiful pottery.The narrow alleys are lined with white-walled buildings and traditional townhouses, making you feel as if you have traveled back in time to the Edo period.
The specialty "Hagi ware" is characterized by its soft texture and gentle colors, and you can easily experience it at the town's workshops and galleries. Don't miss the cultural festivals and seasonal garden events. It is a quiet and beautiful town where you can deeply savor the history and art.
【Access】
❶ By train
⑴Tokyo Station <Tokaido Shinkansen> → Shin-Yamaguchi Station <Super Hagi> → Hagi city (travel time: about 5 hours 30 minutes)
⑵Shin-Osaka Station <Tokaido Shinkansen> → Shin-Yamaguchi Station <Super Hagi> → Hagi city (travel time: about 3 hours)
⑶Hiroshima Station <Sanyo Shinkansen> Shin-Yamaguchi Station <Super Hagi> → Hagi city (travel time: about 1 hour 30 minutes)
⑷Hakata Station <Sanyo Shinkansen> Shin-Yamaguchi Station <Super Hagi> → Hagi city (travel time: about 1 hour 10 minutes)
❷ By plane
⑴Haneda Airport <JAL, ANA, Starflyer> → Yamaguchi Ube Airport <shared taxi> → Hagi city (travel time: about 1 hour 10 minutes) (Approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes)
⑵Haneda Airport <JAL, ANA, Starflyer> → Yamaguchi Ube Airport <Ube City Bus> → Shin-Yamaguchi Station <Super Hagi-go> → Hagi City (Approximately 3 hours and 5 minutes)
⑶Haneda Airport <ANA> → Hagi/Iwami Airport <Shared Taxi> → Hagi City (Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes)
⑷Haneda Airport <ANA> → Hagi/Iwami Airport <Iwami Kotsu Bus> → Masuda Station <JR Sanin Main Line> → Hagi City (Approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes)
⑸Itami Airport <ANA> → Hagi/Iwami Airport <Shared Taxi> → Hagi City (Approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes) ⚠︎ Summer only
⑹Itami Airport <ANA> → Hagi/Iwami Airport <Iwami Kotsu Bus> → Masuda Station <JR Sanin Main Line> → Hagi City (Approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes) ⚠︎ Summer only
11. Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter, Okayama Prefecture
Kurashiki is a picturesque town with traditional buildings lining the canal. The Bikan Historical Quarter is lined with willow trees, and white-walled townhouses, art museums, craft shops, and cafes are in harmony with each other.
Boat trips along the canal, viewing masterpieces at the Ohara Museum of Art, and searching for local crafts in the shops along the street are also attractive.Kurashiki, where history, art, and nature come together, is a travel destination loved by all generations.
【Access】
❶ By train
⑴Tokyo Station <Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen> → Okayama Station <Sanyo Main Line> → Kurashiki Station → Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter (travel time 3 hours 50 minutes)
⑵Nagoya Station <Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen> → Okayama Station <Sanyo Main Line> → Kurashiki Station → Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter (travel time 2 hours 10 minutes)
⑶Shin-Osaka Station <Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen> → Okayama Station <Sanyo Main Line> → Kurashiki Station → Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter (travel time 1 hour 20 minutes)
⑷Hiroshima Station <Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen> →Okayama Station <Sanyo Main Line> →Kurashiki Station →Kurashiki Bikan Quarter (travel time 1 hour 10 minutes)
⑸Hakata Station <Sanyo Shinkansen> →Okayama Station <Sanyo Main Line> →Kurashiki Station →Kurashiki Bikan Quarter (travel time 2 hours 15 minutes)
❷ By plane
⑴Haneda Airport <JAL/ANA> →Okayama Airport <Airport shuttle bus> →Kurashiki Station →Kurashiki Bikan Quarter (travel time approx. 2 hours)
⑵New Chitose Airport <ANA> →Okayama Airport <Airport shuttle bus> →Kurashiki Station →Kurashiki Bikan Quarter (travel time approx. 2 hours 35 minutes)
⑶Naha Airport <JTA> →Okayama Airport <Airport shuttle bus> →Kurashiki Station →Kurashiki Bikan Quarter (travel time approx. 3 hours)
12. Kakunodate Samurai Residences, Akita Prefecture
Kakunodate, known as the "Little Kyoto of Tohoku," is a town famous for its historic samurai residences and spring weeping cherry blossoms. The area, lined with well-preserved residences, exudes a dignified beauty in its tranquility.
The rows of cherry trees along the Hinokinai River are breathtakingly beautiful when you visit during the flowering season. The different constructions of the residences according to the rank of the samurai are also interesting, making this an irresistible area for architecture and history lovers. You can also enjoy kiritanpo and local cuisine.
【Access】
❶By train
⑴Tokyo Station <Akita Shinkansen> → Tazawako Station <JR Tazawako Station> → Kakunodate Station (travel time: approx. 3 hours 12 minutes)
⑵Shin-Osaka Station <Tokaido Shinkansen> Tokyo Station <Akita Shinkansen> → Tazawako Station <JR Tazawako Station> → Kakunodate Station (travel time: approx. 6 hours)
⑶Sendai Station <Akita Shinkansen> → Tazawako Station <JR Tazawako Station> → Kakunodate Station (travel time: approx. 1 hour 30 minutes)
⑷Morioka Station <Akita Shinkansen Line＞→Tazawako Station＜JR Tazawako Station＞→Kakunodate Station (Approx. 44 mins)
❷By plane
⑴Haneda Airport＜JAL・ANA＞→Akita Airport＜Shared Taxi＞→Kakunodate Station (Approx. 2 hrs)
⑵New Chitose Airport＜ANA＞→Akita Airport＜Shared Taxi＞→Kakunodate Station (Approx. 2 hrs 10 mins)
⑶Itami Airport＜JAL・ANA＞→Akita Airport＜Shared Taxi＞→Kakunodate Station (Approx. 2 hrs 15 mins)
⑷Central Japan International Airport＜ANA＞→Akita Airport＜Shared Taxi＞→Kakunodate Station (Approx. 2 hrs 10 mins)
Go on a journey to experience Japan's hidden charms
Hidden villages all over Japan offer a special travel experience through encounters with rich nature, culture, and warm people. The time you spend experiencing the real Japanese lifestyle and beauty in the quietness of unspoiled tourist spots will surely be an unforgettable memory.
Author Bio
Traveler MIZUKI
A traveler who has visited all 47 prefectures of Japan. Posts travel information every day on Instagram. Currently travels once a month. If you have any concerns about traveling in Japan, leave it to me.
