Japanese people are known to the global community by their crowded cities, their rich culture and ancient landmarks. But outside the neon lights of Tokyo and the temples of Kyoto there lies a treasure trove of off-beat islands across Japan which provides tranquillity, breath taking natural scenery and cultural experience of its own. These hidden islands are a must-see destination to those travellers who want to avoid the crowd and visit the untouched beauty of Japan. Before making your arrangements, you need to ensure that you check your Japan visa or Japan travel visa requirements, so as to ensure that there are no hiccups along the way.
Exploring the Off-beat Islands in Japan: why?
Although Japan’s major islands, Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu and Shikoku are full of tourist attractions, the minor and unsung islands offer a pleasant escape route to the popular tourist destination. The islands are known to be the best fit to nature enthusiasts, adventure travelers and all those who expect a more genuine and less crowded experience of Japan. Both island have their own unique beauty, in the form of pristine beaches, or quiet villages or volcanic terrains.
The tourists ought to bear in mind that travelling to Japan requires adequate paperwork. Depending on nationality, a Japan travel visa may have to be obtained. A significant number of countries can be entered without a visa on short-term basis whereas some countries need to apply to a visa to Japan before hand. Book your trip always before it is too late.
1. Shikinejima: The Paradise of Hot Springs.
Shikinejima is located in Izu archipelago only two hours away by ferry, Tokyo. It is a small volcanic island characterized by natural hot springs, remote beaches and hiking tracks. Tourists can enjoy an original Japanese onsen, whereby ocean-view baths and calm environment are available.
Activities include:
- Scuba diving in crystal clear water.
- Hiking over the volcanic roads.
- Touring the volcanic rocks on the island.
Shikinejima is a destination that should be considered by a person who wants to be relaxed and rejuvenated. Do not forget to verify the presence or absence of a Japan travel visa depending on where you have resided.
2. Teshima: Art and Nature Made One.
Teshima is located in the Seto Inland Sea and it is situated in the Kagawa and Okayama prefectures. Widely known in its modern art installation and spectacular natural landscape Teshima presents an exclusive fusion of nature and culture. Teshima Art Museum is located on the island and it is a blend of construction and the surrounding nature.
Why visit Teshima?
- Ridable tracts of peaceful and scenic coastlines.
- Art installations with minimumistic nature.
- Unspoiled beaches and old-fashioned fishing villages.
Observe that you have your Japan visa or that you are qualified to visit Japan visa free.
3. Yakushima: Wildlife and Old Forest.
To people interested in nature, Yakushima would be their dream place. This UNESCO World Heritage site is situated on the southern coast of Kyushu and it has ancient cedar forests, rare wildlife and mountainous landscapes. Yakushima is the inspiration of the film Princess Mononake by Studio Ghibli, and it is easy to understand the reasons.
Highlights of Yakushima:
- Walking to Jomon Sugi, a 7,000 year old cedar tree.
- Sightseeing of Yakushima macaques and deer.
- Hiking waterfalls including Oko-no-taki.
Yakushima is a little isolated, you should prearrange your trip and check whether you need a Japan travel visa.
4. Naoshima: The Art Island
Naoshima is another masterpiece in the Seto Inland Sea, which boasts of a modern day art museum, outdoor artworks and buildings. The island is designed as a tourist destination that caters to the traveler who is interested in art and design and also in a peaceful life by the coast.
Things to do in Naoshima:
- Chichu Art Museum and Benesse House.
- Visit the artworks outside and around the island.
- Unwind in beaches that are not crowded with tourists.
When you are planning to visit, you have to check whether you need a Japan visa or not especially when you are outside the visa-exempt countries.
5. Aoshima: Cat Island Retreat
Aoshima, or Ehime also, is the purr cat island because of the huge population of cats. In this case, cats are more than people, and any visitor can have a whimsical time with friendly cats with an open natural setting.
Highlights:
- Walking in cat infested streets.
- Going to shrines and fishing grounds.
- Sightseeing of beaches and seasides.
International travelers need to keep their travel visa to Japan in order even to outlandish locations like Aoshima.
Travel tips to the off-beat Islands in Japan.
- Check Visa Requirement: Visa to Japan may be obligatory depending on the nationality. A few travelers may get in visa-free to make short visits but it is safe to check.
- Plan Transportation: It has a variety of islands reached by ferry or domestic flights. It is better to make reservations beforehand, particularly in high seasons.
- Show due deference to Local Customs: The off-beat islands are usually occupied by smaller communities. Be respectful to traditions and environmental policy of the country.
- Pack Accordingly: depending on the island, you will be required to bring either hiking shoes, swim wear or sun protection.
Applying to Visa Japan Travel.
In case a visa is required to your country, the process will be simplified as follows:
Check Visa Eligibility: Visit the official Japanese embassy site to check the need of a visa or not.
Make Documentations: You will generally require:
- Passport should have a duration of at least six months.
- Duke form of visa application.
- New passport size photograph.
- Evidence of traveling (flights, accommodation)
- Financial evidence (bank statements)
Send Application: Apply in your local Japanese embassy or consulate.
Processing Time Standard processing is typically between five and seven business days.
Get Visa: Visa is granted, and now you are free to make your plans on off-beat adventures and fun on the Island.
Conclusion
The off-beat Islands in Japan provide the tourists with a chance to enjoy untouched nature and cultures and also enjoy serene holidays away of the mainstream tourist groups. These hidden gems can be explored, starting with hot springs of Shikinejima, artistic sceneries of Teshima and Naoshima. To get a hassle free trip, it is important to be aware of your requirements in terms of Japan visa or Japan travel visa before setting off on your trip.
The off-the-beat islands of Japan are a perfect complement to any travel itinerary, whether one desires adventure, to relax or to be inspired as an artist. Go off track, and you will get to explore a side of Japan that most visitors will never get to explore.
