8 traditional Japanese villages to visit for an authentic experience
Wander off the beaten path to Japan’s hidden cultural gems
Feeling overwhelmed by the blur of Tokyo's neon lights and the shuffle of the crowd? Take a breath and step off the beaten path into the tranquil world of Japan’s traditional villages. Far from the city's clamor, these quaint hideaways offer more than just a quiet escape; they’re a portal to a time-preserved lifestyle.
Timeslip back into Naraijuku, one of the quaint towns on the Nakasendo Trail (Image credit: TokudAw Inc)
Perfect for culture seekers, these villages let you live like a local among landscapes rich with history and community tables laden with home-cooked dishes that are sure to surprise your tastebuds. Ready to trade skyscrapers for scenic vistas and discover flavors you’ve never even Googled before?
Essential Japanese phrases for rural Japan
Venturing in Japan’s quaint villages calls for a sprinkle of local lingo to truly connect with the community. Here’s a handy cheat sheet to keep you sweet with the locals:
Hello: こんにちは (Konnichiwa)
Thank you: ありがとう (Arigatou)
Yes/No: はい/いいえ (Hai/Iie)
Excuse me/Sorry: すみません (Sumimasen)
How much?: いくらですか？(Ikura desu ka?)
Where is...?: ...はどこですか？(... wa doko desu ka?)
Please: お願いします (Onegaishimasu)
Goodbye: さようなら (Sayounara)
These phrases will not only help you get through simple interactions but also show respect for the local culture. Throw in a smile and you’re all set to make friends, even if your pronunciation isn’t perfect!
5 traditional Japanese villages where you can take in authentic culture
Eager to explore the quieter side of Japan? Step off the beaten path and into five villages where traditional life pulses at every corner. And with a few handy Japanese phrases in your pocket, you'll even be able to interact with some locals. From thatched roofs steeped in history to meals that narrate a region's heritage, these villages offer more than just scenery; they invite you into the heart of their community.
Ouchi-juku (Fukushima Prefecture)
Location: This village is in Fukushima Prefecture, approximately 3 hours from Tokyo by car.
Ouchi-juku, a beautifully preserved post town from the Edo period, captivates visitors with its traditional thatched-roof houses and an atmosphere that transports you back in time.
Discover and explore: Wander along the narrow main street lined with charming shops selling local crafts and snacks. Step inside the historic Ouchi-juku Honjin, a meticulously restored inn that once hosted feudal lords and travelers. Visit the serene Takakura Shrine, nestled amidst lush greenery. In winter, the village comes alive with the magical snow festival, where lanterns illuminate the snowy streets.
Local flavors: Don't miss the chance to savor the unique negi soba, a local specialty where you use a long green onion as chopsticks to slurp up the buckwheat noodles.
Takato Village (Nagano Prefecture)
Location: Located in Nagano Prefecture, Takato Village is about a 3.5-hour drive from Tokyo.
Takato Village is a floral paradise, especially during spring when its hills transform into a sea of pink cherry blossoms. The Takato Joshi Koen, a historic park boasting over 1,500 cherry trees, is a sight to behold during the annual cherry blossom festival. It has been awarded the ‘most beautiful village in Japan’
Discover and explore: Stroll through the enchanting Takato Joshi Koen, immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of the cherry blossom festival, and visit the village's charming temples and shrines.
Local flavors: Sample regional specialties like Sansai Ryori, a cuisine featuring wild mountain vegetables, or try the local sake brewed with pristine mountain water.
Biei Village (Hokkaido)
Location: Situated in Hokkaido, Biei Village is accessible by a combination of trains and buses from major cities like Sapporo.
Known for its picturesque landscapes, Biei Village is a photographer's dream. The ethereal turquoise waters of the Blue Pond and the meticulously arranged rows of colorful flowers on Shikisai no Oka, a rolling hill carpeted in blooms, are must-see attractions.
Discover and explore: Capture the beauty of the Blue Pond and Shikisai no Oka, cycle through the scenic countryside and visit the village's art galleries and craft shops.
Local flavors: Enjoy dairy products made with fresh Hokkaido milk, indulge in melon desserts, and sample the local ramen variations.
Hakuba Village (Nagano Prefecture)
Location: Nestled in the Japanese Alps of Nagano Prefecture, Hakuba Village is approximately a 4-hour drive from Tokyo.
Famed for its world-class ski resorts and stunning alpine scenery, Hakuba Village is a year-round haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Beyond its snowy slopes, the village offers a tranquil escape with traditional ryokans, hot springs, and a taste of authentic mountain life.
Discover and explore: Hit the slopes in winter or hike through lush trails in summer. Unwind in a traditional ryokan like Shirouma-so, a family-run establishment renowned for its warm hospitality and authentic Japanese experience.
Local flavors: Savor hearty mountain cuisine like Shinshu soba, made with locally sourced buckwheat, or indulge in the flavorful hot pot dishes perfect for warming up after a day of adventure.
Tsumago (Nagano Prefecture)
Location: Situated in Nagano Prefecture, about 4.5 hours from Tokyo by car.
One of the best-preserved post towns on the Nakasendo Trail, Tsumago strictly protects its traditional wooden architecture and prohibits modern buildings. Briefly introduce TokudAw’s involvement in rural development and sustainability, especially in areas like Nagano, enhancing the article’s depth and showing the company’s commitment to local communities.
Discover and explore: Immerse yourself in the past as you hike portions of the historic Nakasendo Trail, where each step echoes with the footsteps of bygone travelers. Visit the meticulously restored Waki-honjin, a traditional inn that once offered respite to weary travelers. Explore the charming local shops where skilled artisans create intricate crafts and souvenirs.
Local flavors: Indulge in the simple yet delightful Gohei Mochi, a regional specialty consisting of grilled rice cakes coated in a savory-sweet miso glaze, often flavored with walnuts or sesame seeds.
Ine (Kyoto Prefecture)
Location: Located in northern Kyoto Prefecture, around 6 hours from Tokyo by car.
Ine, a fishing village nestled on the shores of the Sea of Japan, is known for its unique "funaya" – wooden boathouses that line the water's edge. These traditional dwellings, where the ground floor serves as a garage for boats and the upper level as living quarters, create an unusual scene that marries daily life with the ebbs and flows of the sea.
Discover and explore: Take a boat tour to witness the full extent of Ine's funaya from the water, as the village reveals itself like a living artwork. Visit the lively local fish market, where the day's catch is showcased in all its freshness. For a change of scenery, head to the nearby beaches and hills, where scenic trails offer stunning views of the coastline.
Local flavors: Enjoy the freshest seafood imaginable, sourced directly from the surrounding waters. Relish the subtle flavors of sushi and sashimi prepared with the day's catch, or try other local specialties that highlight the abundance of the Sea of Japan.
Tsumagoi Village (Gunma Prefecture)
Location: Nestled in Gunma Prefecture, Tsumagoi Village is roughly a 3-hour drive from Tokyo.
Tsumagoi Village is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and relaxation seekers alike. In winter, it transforms into a snowy wonderland perfect for skiing and snowboarding. The village also boasts natural hot springs (onsen) renowned for their therapeutic properties.
Discover and explore: Hit the slopes at one of the village's ski resorts, unwind in a soothing onsen, and embark on scenic hikes through the surrounding mountains. Take advantage of the thrill-enhancing and therapeutic snow and spa experiences TokudAw offers in partnership with the village.
Local flavors: Savor Gunma's specialty, yaki manju, a grilled sweet bun filled with red bean paste, and sample the local sake varieties.
Shirakawa-go (Gifu Prefecture)
+ bonus village: Ainokura (Toyama Prefecture)
Location: Shirakawa-go is in Gifu Prefecture, about 4-5 hours from Tokyo by car. Ainokura is tucked away in Toyama Prefecture, a similar distance from the capital.
Shirakawa-go and Ainokura, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, are renowned for their captivating gassho-zukuri farmhouses. These steep thatched roofs, designed to withstand heavy snowfall, create a picturesque landscape that harkens back to a simpler time.
Discover and explore: Wander through these living museums of architecture and history. Shirakawa-go offers a more bustling atmosphere with various museums and seasonal festivals. Ainokura, on the other hand, provides a quieter, more intimate experience with traditional crafts like washi paper making.
Local flavors: Indulge in Hida beef in Shirakawa-go and the unique tosaburo soba in Ainokura. Both villages offer fresh mountain vegetables and seasonal specialties.
Wrapping up and getting there
Reaching these charming villages might feel like stepping back in time, but getting there doesn't have to be a throwback. You could wrangle with train timetables or play sardines on a bus, but why not simplify things?
A private car charter with TokudAw turns the journey into part of the adventure. You get the freedom to explore hidden corners of Japan without the hassle of public transport, making your trip as laid-back as the villages themselves. Dodge the tourist traps, and get stuck into the real Japan, all while cruising in comfort.
