Japan is a country that blends ancient traditions with modern innovation, offering visitors a unique experience that few places can match. While Tokyo dazzles with its skyscrapers and Kyoto enchants with its historic temples, there’s a whole world to discover beyond these iconic cities. To encourage travelers to explore the lesser-known corners of Japan, Japan Airlines offers the Japan Explorer Pass, an affordable way for international visitors to enjoy domestic flights across a broad network of destinations.
This initiative is a perfect chance to see another side of Japan—one that includes breathtaking landscapes, unique cultural traditions, and unforgettable experiences. Let’s dive into the details of this offer and explore four must-visit destinations that showcase the diversity of Japan.
Travel More with Japan Airlines
The JAL Japan Explorer Pass is perfect for travelers who want to see and learn more about this country. With this pass, you can catch flights to over 30 cities across Japan at great prices.
- Deal Details: Pay as little as JPY 7,700 for short hops, JPY 11,000 for mid-range flights, and JPY 14,300 for the longest domestic routes. This means you can check out places like Hokkaido's snowy peaks, Okinawa’s sunny shores, Kyushu's steamy hot springs, and Aomori’s quiet forests without a hefty price tag.
- Who Can Use It: This pass is specially designed for international travelers. If you live outside Japan and already have an international round-trip ticket to and from the country, you’re eligible.
- Booking Your Flight: It’s easy. Head over to the Japan Airlines site, look up the Japan Explorer Pass, and book your flights there. Make sure you buy in the same currency as your international ticket.
Hokkaido: The Land of Natural Beauty
Hokkaido is a nature lover’s dream, with something magical to offer in every season. It’s not just the landscapes that captivate; Hokkaido also has a rich culture and a unique culinary scene.
- Winter Wonderland: Ski enthusiasts flock to Niseko for its world-class powder snow, but don’t miss Furano, where skiing is paired with stunning views of Mount Tokachi. Winter also brings the famous Sapporo Snow Festival, where massive snow and ice sculptures turn the city into an art gallery.
- Shiretoko Peninsula: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to stunning cliffs, waterfalls, and wildlife like brown bears and eagles. In summer, take a boat cruise along the coast or hike to the Five Lakes for jaw-dropping views.
- Furano and Biei: In summer, these towns become a painter’s palette with vibrant lavender, sunflower, and poppy fields. The famous Blue Pond in Biei is a surreal sight, with its turquoise waters reflecting the surrounding trees.
- Hakodate: Visit this charming port city for its Victorian-style architecture, fresh seafood at the Morning Market, and a nighttime view from Mount Hakodate that’s often ranked as one of the best in Japan.
- Foodie Paradise: Don’t leave without trying Hokkaido’s specialties—creamy dairy products, fresh seafood like sea urchin and crab, and the famous soup curry, a comforting bowl of spiced broth with local vegetables and meat.
Okinawa: Japan’s Tropical Paradise
Okinawa feels like a completely different world, blending Japanese, Chinese, and Southeast Asian influences into a unique cultural tapestry.
- White Sand Beaches: Head to Miyako Island for some of the clearest waters in Japan, perfect for snorkeling and diving. Kouri Island, connected by a picturesque bridge, offers turquoise waters and a quiet escape.
- Ryukyu History: At Shurijo Castle, learn about the Ryukyu Kingdom, which ruled Okinawa before its integration into Japan. The castle’s bright red architecture contrasts beautifully with the blue skies.
- Churaumi Aquarium: One of the largest aquariums in the world, this is your chance to see massive whale sharks and manta rays up close in a stunning ocean tank.
- Cape Manzamo: A breathtaking cliffside spot ideal for sunset views. Its elephant-shaped rock formation is one of Okinawa’s iconic images.
- Traditional Culture: Experience an Eisa dance performance, where locals perform dynamic drum dances during festivals. Visit Taketomi Island to see traditional Ryukyu-style houses with red-tile roofs.
- Okinawan Cuisine: Try goya champuru, a stir-fry dish featuring bitter melon, or rafute, a tender pork dish simmered in sweet soy sauce. Wash it down with Awamori, Okinawa’s signature distilled spirit.
Kyushu: Land of Fire and Hot Springs
Kyushu’s landscapes are as dramatic as its history. Known as the “Land of Fire” due to its volcanic activity, this southern island offers both adventure and relaxation.
- Beppu: Known as the “Hot Spring Capital of Japan,” Beppu has over 2,000 hot springs. Visit the Hells of Beppu, a series of geothermal ponds in striking colors like cobalt blue and bright red.
- Mount Aso: Explore one of the world’s largest active volcanoes. You can take a cable car to the crater for a close-up view of its steaming vents or hike the surrounding grasslands.
- Kumamoto Castle: This imposing fortress is one of Japan’s most beautiful castles. It has been recently restored after an earthquake and offers insights into samurai culture.
- Nagasaki: Beyond its somber history, Nagasaki offers gems like Dejima, a former Dutch trading post, and Glover Garden, a hillside estate with stunning views of the bay.
- Yufuin: This charming onsen town is surrounded by mountains and offers boutique shops, art galleries, and quaint cafes. Stroll along the scenic Kinrin Lake, where mist rises in the morning.
- Unique Foods: Savor tonkotsu ramen, famous for its creamy pork broth, or try karashi renkon, a spicy mustard-filled lotus root. Kyushu’s wagyu beef, especially from Miyazaki Prefecture, is considered some of the best in Japan.
Aomori: A Hidden Gem in the North
Aomori is a peaceful retreat that combines natural beauty with vibrant traditions. Its festivals and tranquil landscapes make it a unique stop for any traveler.
- Nebuta Festival: Aomori’s highlight is this summer festival, where giant illuminated floats parade through the streets accompanied by drummers, dancers, and flute players. The energy is contagious and unforgettable.
- Hirosaki Castle: This stunning castle is especially famous during the cherry blossom season in spring, when over 2,500 trees bloom around the moat and park, creating a pink wonderland.
- Oirase Gorge and Lake Towada: This serene area is perfect for hiking. Follow the Oirase Stream through mossy trails and waterfalls until you reach Lake Towada, a tranquil caldera lake surrounded by mountains.
- Shirakami-Sanchi: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this vast beech forest is home to hiking trails, crystal-clear rivers, and unique wildlife. It’s a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
- Aomori Museum of Art: See exhibits inspired by local culture and the famous giant dog sculpture, Aomori-Ken.
- Local Specialties: Aomori is renowned for its apples, but also try its Ichigoni, a seafood soup featuring sea urchin and abalone, or the local senbei-jiru, a soup made with crunchy rice crackers.
Staying Connected with Japan JetSet eSIM
As you explore Japan, staying connected is essential to make your journey smooth and enjoyable. With the Japan JetSet eSIM, you can effortlessly navigate maps, share your experiences in real-time, and keep in touch with loved ones—all without the hassle of finding Wi-Fi hotspots. Whether you’re skiing on Hokkaido’s snowy slopes, relaxing on Okinawa’s pristine beaches, exploring Kyushu’s historic sites, or hiking through Aomori’s tranquil forests, a reliable local eSIM connection ensures seamless travel.
The Japan JetSet eSIM lets you manage your data usage with ease, so you can focus on the adventure ahead. Need another Japan eSIM during your trip? No problem—you can order one online anytime! Stay connected throughout your journey and make every moment in Japan unforgettable.
