5 Underrated Destinations in Japan Waiting to Be Explored

Japan is a popular destination for travelers who want to enjoy an international trip without much hassle. No matter where you go, you can revel in the joy of travel. Among the various places, we will introduce some famous but lesser-known travel destinations in Japan for Korean tourists.

Ghibli Park is a theme park located near Nagoya. Opened in November 2022, Ghibli Park is a place that faithfully reproduces the works of Studio Ghibli, founded by Miyazaki Hayao, a master of Japanese animation. Miyazaki’s works are loved worldwide.

Ghibli Park is divided into five themes and covers an area equivalent to ten soccer fields. Initially, Ghibli’s Great Warehouse, Hill of the Youth, and Dondoko Forest were opened, followed by the opening of Mononoke Village last fall.

Witch Valley has garnered attention since its opening. This area recreates scenes from “Howl’s Moving Castle,” “Kiki’s Delivery Service,” and “Earwig and the Witch.” Visitors can immerse themselves in the world of animation.

To visit Ghibli Park, you can take public transportation from downtown Nagoya. Reservations are mandatory, as the park operates on a 100% reservation system.

• Address: 1-1533-1 Ibaragabasama, Nagakute, Aichi, Japan, Expo 2005 Aichi Commemorative Park (Moricoro Park)
• Operating hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Closed on Tuesdays.
• Admission: Adults 3,500 yen ($31), Children 1,750 yen ($15.50) on weekdays / Adults 4,000 yen ($35), Children 2,000 yen ($18) on weekends and holidays

Azabudai Hills in Tokyo opened its doors last November, becoming Japan’s tallest building. It took a whopping 35 years just to construct, yet it quickly emerged as a Japanese landmark. Nestled within the city center, this small city comprises three buildings, 1,400 residences, offices, and commercial facilities.

Everywhere you look in Azabudai Hills, you see a new view. Art installations are scattered throughout, and you can enjoy galleries, digital art, shopping, and dining all in one place. The observation deck offers a panoramic view of downtown Tokyo.

Despite its recent opening, many travelers have yet to visit this new destination. For those planning a trip to Tokyo, it should be on the top of their list of places to visit.

• Address: 1 Chome-3-7 Azabudai, Minato City, Tokyo 106-0041, Japan
• Operating hours: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Maishima Seaside Park in Osaka is a popular spring travel destination. It’s a beloved spot among locals, offering a view of approximately one million nemophila flowers. At Maishima Seaside Park, you can enjoy the charming nemophila and the wide-open sea at a glance.

Upon arrival, you’re greeted with a sea of blue waves. The sea, sky, and nemophila blend to create a picturesque view, making it a must-visit spot when traveling to Osaka. This year, the Nemophila Festival will be held from April 6 to May 6.

• Address: 2 Chome Hokkoryokuchi, Konohana Ward, Osaka, 554-0042, Japan
• Admission: 1,500 yen ($13)

Fukuoka is the closest Japan travel destination in terms of flight time. It’s a popular place for short trips like one-night, two-day, or two-night, three-day stays. If you have a flexible travel schedule, we recommend visiting the African Safari. It’s the most prominent safari in Asia, with 70 species and 1,400 animals roaming freely. You can see lions, bears, deer, gazelles, camels, rhinos, and buffalo here.

At the African Safari, you can embark on a safari tour on a jungle bus or visit by car. It’s a popular destination for its unique safari experience, where visitors can interact with the animals directly. Among locals, it’s also a popular spot for short outings.

• Address: 2-1755-1 Minamihata, Ajimumachi, Usa, Oita, 872-0722, Japan
• Operating hours: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Admission: Adults 2,600 yen ($23), Children 1,500 yen ($13)

Located in Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture, Aeon Mall Tokoname is where you can enjoy shopping, activities, and hot springs. It’s a large shopping mall with a total of 170 stores. Enjoy the Seaside Circuit, rock climbing, and even hot springs. It’s also a great place to take pictures in front of the cute cat photo zone.

At the duty-free counter, they offer coupons for foreign travelers. Free shuttle buses are available daily from Chubu International Airport. It’s a great place to enjoy shopping before departure.

• Address: 2 Chome-20-3 Rinkucho, Tokoname, Aichi 479-0882, Japan
• Operating hours: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM