Action & Adventure in Japan - Visit the country's theme parks and wide open spaces to experience some of Japan’s biggest thrills
Wherever you find yourself, make sure to mix in some action and adventure to your Japan travel schedule
Take a trip to Fuji-Q Highland in central Japan’s Yamanashi Prefecture for a ride on rollercoasters boasting serious speed. Meanwhile, nearby Mt. Fuji is open for climbing in the summer months.
Japan becomes a mecca for skiers and snowboarders in the winter—especially to the winter sports hubs of Niseko and Hakuba —with many coming to take advantage of the country’s perfect powder.
Head to the Inland Sea area for cycling routes with fantastic views—including a ride across a 70km bridge connecting Hiroshima with the island of Shikoku. Alternatively, fly down to the subtropical islands of Okinawa where you can jump into a kayak and explore the mangroves in Yanbaru National Park, or head to the beach for snorkeling and diving in the crystal-clear waters.
Niseko Ski Resorts & Around
Perfect powder draws skiers from around the world
Perfect powder draws skiers from around the world
Hokkaido in general is known for its snow, but the Niseko area, southwest of Sapporo, is the most famous ski area in Japan. It is extremely popular with overseas visitors for its powdery snow and welcoming attitude. Outside of snow season, there are hiking trails and sports from rafting to golf.
Don’t Miss
– Soak in one of the many local hot springs.
– Snap a photo of iconic Mt. Yotei, a towering volcano that resembles Mt. Fuji.
– Enjoy backcountry skiing and snowboarding through pristine wilderness.
Shirarahama Beach
Six hundred meters of Pacific Ocean paradise
With pristine white sand curving around a bay of sparkling water, this beach is as close to a Pacific Ocean paradise as you can find. A sister beach to Waikiki Beach in Hawaii, Shirara Beach is known as the best beach in Kansai.
Yakushima National Park
A subtropical island of natural wonders
Yakushima National Park is a nature preserve established to protect the biodiversity and natural resources of the area and to promote sustainable tourism. The circular island is crisscrossed with extensive walking and hiking trails, some passing by gorgeous waterfalls and leading to the tallest peaks in southern Japan.
Quick Facts
– Home to some of Japan’s oldest trees, ancient cedars known as yakusugi, which are more than 1,000 years old.
– The popular Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine inspired scenes in the animated Studio Ghibli film Princess Mononoke.
– Endangered loggerhead turtles come to lay and nest their eggs on Yakushima’s beaches during the summer months.
Drift Ice Walks
Walking on ice at the Okhotsk Sea is an otherworldly experience
Get an up-close experience of the Okhotsk Sea’s famous drift ice, by booking yourself onto a thrilling walking tour over the frozen sea. If you are brave enough, try jumping into the icy cold waters for a quick dip.
Quick Facts
– Walking tours take place from the start of February until mid-March, depending on ice conditions.
– This area is the southernmost part of the northern hemisphere where drift ice can be found.
Saga International Balloon Fiesta
Kasegawa Kasenshiki, Kasemachi Oaza Ogino, Saga-shi, Saga-ken
Hundreds of hot-air balloons in the sky
The Saga International Balloon Fiesta is the largest sky-sporting event in Asia. Over a six-day period from October 31 to early November, it combines three “tournaments” with a grand finale of fireworks and a light show put on by a cluster of hot-air balloons.
The main launch site generally begins sending balloons up for the competitions at seven in the morning, but the weather is always a factor. There are events throughout the day, right up until five p.m. The balloons are illuminated at night by the flames from their burners, with the music of a live band to add to the spectacle.
NAGANO
Japan Alps – Alpine Adventures on the Roof of Japan
Peak wilderness delights in Japan’s Alps—for climbers, skiers, hikers and nature fans
Nagano’s Alps hold everything an outdoor sports enthusiast dreams of. The attractions here include the Kamikochi area with endless trekking possibilities, the Hakuba region and its Olympic-class powder and slopes, and the Senjojiki Cirque, carved by a glacier.
The mountains and the communities living nearby offer endless opportunities for exploration and adventure, including Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan’s finest, and free kabuki festivals in Oshika.
Don’t Miss
– Breathtaking Senjojiki Cirque in the Central Alps.
– Kamikochi highland’s stunning alpine beauty.
– Visiting Hakuba for some world-class skiing and snowboarding.
