Japan’s Islands: A Journey Packed with Sushi, Sake, and Shenanigans

From Sake, Soaked Summits to Ramen Noodle Beaches – Prepare for a Adventure Across Japan Islands Playground

Japan is a large island set in Asia, and its name in Japanese is Honshu or Hondo, meaning “mainland.” It’s home to 104 million people, or 80% of Japan’s population. 

However, Honshu is not this nation’s only island. In fact, it boasts some 7,000 islands of of Honshu’s coasts.

When visting this island nation, and depending on what you are looking for in a holiday, there’s an island to explore based off of your wants– if you are seeking a cultural immersion from a larger city like Tokyo, or outdoor adventures and tranquil escapes of the surrounding islands, there’s many to consider.

We’ve compiled a list of 10 most popular islands where the Japanese like to holiday, and we think you’ll like them, too!

1. Honshu: Honshu– the island we all know as “Japan” is Japan’s largest and most populous island, housing the capital city of Tokyo and other major cities like Osaka and Kyoto. It blends modernity and tradition with iconic landmarks, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. Honshu is famous for attractions such as Mount Fuji, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, historic temples, hot springs, and vibrant festivals.
2. Hokkaido: Located in the northernmost part of Japan and is the country’s second largest island. Hokkaido is known for its beautiful landscapes, hot springs, and delicious seafood. Its main city is Sapporo. It attracts visitors with its stunning national parks like Daisetsuzan and Shiretoko, ski resorts, picturesque lakes, and unique wildlife. Hokkaido also offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and exploring vast fields of lavender and sunflowers.
3. Kyushu: Kyushu is the third-largest island in Japan and offers a diverse range of attractions. It is famous for its onsen (hot springs), historical sites, and natural beauty. Some popular destinations in Kyushu include Fukuoka, known for its vibrant food scene and shopping; Nagasaki, with its historical connections to foreign trade; and Kumamoto, home to the impressive Kumamoto Castle.
4. Shikoku: Shikoku is the smallest of Japan’s four main islands, known for its tranquil and serene atmosphere. It is an excellent destination for those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience. Shikoku is renowned for the 88 Temple Pilgrimage, a famous Buddhist pilgrimage route, and the Shimanami Kaido, a scenic cycling route that connects Shikoku to Honshu. The island also has beautiful mountains, stunning coastlines, and delicious local cuisine.
5. Okinawa Islands: The Okinawa Islands are a tropical paradise in the southernmost part of Japan. Known for their pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs, they are famous for water activities such as snorkeling, diving, and surfing. The islands offer a unique Japanese and Ryukyuan cultural blend, with historic sites, traditional festivals, and delicious cuisine.
6. Iriomote: Iriomote is the largest Yaeyama Islands in Okinawa Prefecture and is often referred to as the “Galapagos of the East” due to its rich biodiversity. The island is covered in dense jungle, and visitors can enjoy activities like jungle trekking, kayaking through mangrove forests, and exploring pristine waterfalls. Iriomote is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Make sure to head to find the famous star sand from Hoshizuna-no-hama beach.
7. Naoshima: Located in the Seto Inland Sea, Naoshima is an art lover’s haven. The island is renowned for its contemporary art museums, outdoor sculptures, and unique art installations. Visitors can explore the Benesse House Museum, Chichu Art Museum, and other art venues while enjoying the beautiful island scenery.
8. Miyajima (Itsukushima): Located in Hiroshima Bay, Miyajima is known for its iconic floating torii gate, which appears floating on water during high tide. The island is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Itsukushima Shrine and offers beautiful hiking trails, friendly deer roaming the streets, and stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea.
9. Yakushima: Yakushima is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient cedar forests, some thousands of years old. The island offers fantastic hiking opportunities, including a trek to Jomon Sugi, a famous cedar tree estimated to be over 2,000 years old. Yakushima’s lush greenery, natural hot springs, and scenic coastline make it a nature lover’s paradise.
10. Sado Island: Located off the coast of Niigata Prefecture, Sado Island is famous for its gold mines, traditional performing arts, and beautiful landscapes. The island hosts the Earth Celebration, an annual music festival, and offers cultural experiences such as taiko drumming workshops, gold mine tours, and exploring historic temples and shrines.

Did you know?

Japan has a unique island called “Okunoshima,” commonly known as “Rabbit Island”? Hundreds of friendly and adorable wild rabbits inhabit this small island in the Inland Sea of Japan. The island was a secret base for chemical weapons during World War II.

It has become a popular tourist destination where visitors can interact with the friendly bunnies, feed them, and even stay in rabbit-themed accommodations. It’s a delightful and unexpected experience that combines history with cuteness overload!

A little history:

One of the most popular islands in Japan is Honshu. It holds great historical significance and is the country’s largest and most populous island. Honshu has been the political and cultural center of Japan for centuries. It is home to ancient capitals such as Kyoto and Nara, which shaped the country’s history.

The city’s stunning temples, shrines, and gardens still preserve the elegance and grandeur of that era. Nara, Japan’s first permanent capital, is renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Todai-ji Temple, which houses the world’s most giant bronze statue of Buddha.

Besides its historical cities, Honshu boasts breathtaking natural landscapes. Mount Fuji, an iconic symbol of Japan, is located on Honshu and has long been revered by artists and poets. The island also features picturesque landscapes like the Japanese Alps, the scenic coastline of the Seto Inland Sea, and hot springs in places like Hakone and Kusatsu.

The most famous island among the Japanese for holidaying in Okinawa. In the southernmost part of Japan, Okinawa is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and subtropical climate. It offers a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere, making it a perfect destination for beach lovers and those seeking a tropical getaway.

The island has its own language, cuisine, and customs, differentiating it from mainland Japan. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich Ryukyuan heritage by exploring historical sites such as Shuri Castle, which served as the royal palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom.

Okinawa is surrounded by coral reefs, making it a paradise for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Ishigaki Island, part of the Yaeyama Islands in Okinawa, is renowned for its pristine beaches and stunning marine life. Additionally, Okinawa’s lush forests, limestone caves, and scenic coastal drives offer plenty of outdoor exploration and adventure opportunities.