Kiso Gorge

A castle standing along the Kiso River in Inuyama, Aichi Prefecture. Its main tower, built in 1537, is Japan's oldest existing castle structure and is designated a National Treasure. The castle's picturesque setting integrated with the river landscape has captivated many literary figures. It represents a quintessential example of wooden tower architecture.

A stunning gorge along the Oirase River in Towada, Aomori Prefecture. The 14-kilometer stream is renowned for its seasonal beauty, with autumn foliage considered among Japan's finest. Well-maintained hiking trails wind past ancient trees over 300 years old and numerous waterfalls. Designated as a national park and one of the eight scenic views of Lake Towada.

A castle with a National Treasure keep, nicknamed 'Crow Castle' for its striking black lacquered exterior. It houses Japan's oldest existing five-story, six-floor castle tower, and its beautiful setting against the Northern Alps backdrop attracts visitors year-round.

Japan's tallest single-drop waterfall in Wakayama, known for its sacred landscape unified with Kumano Nachi Taisha shrine. As a destination on the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, it embodies the fusion of nature worship and faith in Japanese spiritual culture.

One of Japan's Three Scenic Views in Miyazu, Kyoto. A 3.6km sandbar crossing Miyazu Bay lined with pine trees creates a unique landscape. Its name — 'Bridge to Heaven' — comes from the illusion of a heavenly bridge when viewed upside-down between one's legs.

One of Japan's oldest shrines, visited by worshippers from across the country as the deity of matchmaking. Distinctive for its massive shimenawa rope and unique two-bow, four-clap, one-bow prayer etiquette, it is believed that all the gods of Japan gather here in the tenth lunar month.

A renowned temple in Shinano where it is said every Japanese should visit at least once. Open to all Buddhist denominations, it enshrines what is believed to be the oldest Buddhist image in Japan. Millions flock to the once-every-seven-years Gokaicho unveiling ceremony.