32-Day In-depth Japan Exploration & Pacific Passage

Beppu, located on Japan's Kyushu Island, is renowned for its extensive hot spring resources, boasting the largest volume of hot water and number of hot spring sources in the country. The city is divided into eight distinct hot spring areas, called "Beppu Hatto," each offering unique thermal experiences. Visitors can indulge in various types of baths, providing a comprehensive wellness retreat.

One of the most unique attractions is the "Hells of Beppu," a collection of spectacular hot springs meant for viewing rather than bathing. These geothermal wonders showcase vibrant colors and unique features, offering a glimpse into Earth's geothermal activity.

The Kanmon Straits, a narrow waterway separating Japan's Honshu and Kyushu islands, are spanned by the Kanmon Bridge, which provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Travelers can walk through the Kanmon Tunnel, an undersea passage that connects the two islands.

The surrounding cities of Shimonoseki and Kitakyushu offer a variety of attractions. Shimonoseki, located at the westernmost tip of Honshu, is known for its seafood, particularly pufferfish, and serves as a gateway to the island of Kyushu.

Sakaiminato, a coastal city in Japan’s Tottori Prefecture, is best known for its deep connection to folklore and the sea. As the hometown of legendary manga artist Shigeru Mizuki, the city is filled with tributes to his famous series, "GeGeGe no Kitaro." Visitors can explore Mizuki Shigeru Road, a lively street lined with over 150 bronze statues of the series' yokai (supernatural creatures).

Sakaiminato is also a major fishing port and one of Japan’s top producers of fresh seafood. The city’s fish market, located near the harbor, offers an incredible selection of crab, tuna, and squid, with many local restaurants serving delicious seafood dishes. Matsuba crab, a winter delicacy, is particularly famous here, drawing food lovers eager to taste this seasonal specialty at its freshest.

Nature lovers can take a short trip from Sakaiminato to nearby Daikon Island, known for its beautiful peony gardens and stunning lake views. The island is home to Yushien Garden, a traditional Japanese landscape garden featuring waterfalls, ponds, and colorful flowers that change with the seasons. Another must-visit location is the scenic coastline of Mihonoseki, where travelers can explore historic shrines and enjoy views of the Sea of Japan.

Located at the southern tip of Hokkaido, Hakodate combines historical charm with natural splendor. One of the city's most famous attractions is the view from Mount Hakodate, which offers a panorama of the city and the surrounding sea, especially stunning at night. Hakodate's rich history is evident in the Motomachi district, where you can find Western-style buildings and churches that reflect its past as one of Japan's first international ports.

Hakodate is also a destination for food lovers. The Hakodate Morning Market is a bustling spot where you can sample fresh seafood, including the city's famous "dancing squid" dish. The unique delicacy features a freshly prepared squid that appears to move when soy sauce is applied!

Hachijo Jima Island, a volcanic island in the Philippine Sea, offers visitors a peaceful escape just a short flight from Tokyo. Known for its subtropical climate and dramatic landscapes, the island is home to rugged coastlines, dense forests, and the towering Mount Hachijo-Fuji, an inactive volcano that invites travelers to hike its slopes for panoramic views. The island’s natural hot springs, or "onsen," provide a soothing retreat, with open-air baths overlooking the ocean and the surrounding greenery.

Rich in history, Hachijo Jima has a fascinating past as both a place of exile during the Edo period and a strategic location during World War II. Today, remnants of its history can be seen in old stone walls, underground war tunnels, and the Hachijo Island History and Folklore Museum.

Hachijo Jima’s waters offer excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities, with coral reefs, lava formations, and diverse marine life, including sea turtles and colorful tropical fish. The island’s coastline is dotted with scenic spots such as Nanbara Senjojiki, a vast lava plateau shaped by ancient eruptions, where visitors can walk along rugged black rock formations.

Culinary experiences on Hachijo Jima highlight fresh seafood and local delicacies, including ashitaba, a nutritious green herb used in tempura and noodle dishes, and the island’s signature passionfruit.

Located at the southern tip of Hokkaido, Hakodate combines historical charm with natural splendor. One of the city's most famous attractions is the view from Mount Hakodate, which offers a panorama of the city and the surrounding sea, especially stunning at night. Hakodate's rich history is evident in the Motomachi district, where you can find Western-style buildings and churches that reflect its past as one of Japan's first international ports.

Hakodate is also a destination for food lovers. The Hakodate Morning Market is a bustling spot where you can sample fresh seafood, including the city's famous "dancing squid" dish. The unique delicacy features a freshly prepared squid that appears to move when soy sauce is applied!