Matsushima

One of Japan's Three Most Scenic Views — a 3.6km sandbar covered with pine trees stretching across Miyazu Bay. Named because viewing it upside down between one's legs makes it appear as a bridge to heaven, it symbolizes Japanese scenic beauty.

A scenic area in Matsushima, Miyagi Prefecture. Approximately 260 islands dot the bay, making it one of Japan's Three Great Scenic Sites. Sightseeing boat tours exploring the islands are popular with well-developed tourist facilities around Matsushima Coast Station. Attracts approximately 3 million visitors annually as Miyagi's representative destination and known worldwide for its beauty.

An island of Japan's Three Most Scenic Views, home to World Heritage Itsukushima Shrine. The floating great torii, Momijidani Park, momiji manju, and grilled oysters — faith, nature, and food are compactly condensed in this destination.

A cultural city in Hokuriku that flourished as the castle town of the Kaga domain, where tradition and modernity coexist at Kenroku-en Garden, the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, and Higashi Chaya District. The 2015 Hokuriku Shinkansen dramatically improved access from Tokyo, triggering a tourism surge.

One of Japan's premier mountain scenic spots at approximately 1,500m elevation in the Northern Alps. Views from Taisho Pond and Kappa Bridge reflecting the Hotaka Range are sometimes called 'Japan's Switzerland.' Private car restrictions preserve the natural environment, making it a popular base for mountaineering and trekking.

A UNESCO World Natural Heritage archipelago roughly 1,000km south of Tokyo. Called the 'Galapagos of the East,' the islands are a treasure trove of endemic species. Accessible only by a 24-hour ferry, this remote paradise is popular for whale watching and diving.