With a mosaic-like tapestry of diverse landscapes ranging from snowy mountain ranges and subtropical jungles to sandy-shored beaches and volcanic highlands, Japan is nothing short of pure paradise. The East Asian country is well-known for its many other eye-catching attributes, too. The blooming cherry blossoms vividly mark the departure of winter. The wooden Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines embody the locals' deeply cherished customs. And the bustling street markets proudly showcase Japanese staples of fresh fish, tsukemono (or pickled vegetables), and the like.
Those fancying an island retreat have much to explore in this Asian archipelago. Lying on the western edge of the Ring of Fire, a string of volcanoes along the rim of the Pacific Ocean, Japan is composed of four main islands; Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu, and thousands of smaller islands. Using advanced mapping technology, the country recently discovered more than 7,000 islands, bringing the total of Japanese islands upwards of 14,000. For the wanderlust adventurer, here are ten of the most beautiful islands that Japan has to offer.
10 Honshu Island
Japan's largest island, Honshu, is home to some of the country's most recognizable cities, including Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, and its capital city, Tokyo.
A good pick for the nature-lovers and thrill seekers, the island also contains Japan's biggest freshwater lake, Lake Biwa, and its highest mountain, the great—often snow-capped—Mount Fuji.
- Best for cultural sites and outdoor adventures
- Notable points of interest: Japan's highest mountain, Mount Fuji, the Japanese Alps, the Imperial Palace, Osaka Castle, and the Tokyo Tower
9 Hokkaido Island
Want to escape the summer heat? Then spend a week in Hokkaido, Japan. The second-largest of Japan's main islands, Hokkaido is undoubtedly a winter wonderland. It offers tourists a chance to partake in a number of cold-weather activities like skiing and snowboarding.
- Best for winter activities, ski resorts, and hot springs
- Notable points of interest: the star fort of Goryōkaku, the flower gardens of Shikisai No Oka, and Cape Sōya, the northernmost point of the island
Many of Hokkaido's popular ski resorts, including Niseko, Rusutsu, and Furano, can be found within a two-hour drive of its capital city, Sapporo.
8 Kyushu Island
There are myriad unique hot springs in Japan, many of which can be found on the island of Kyushu, the country's southernmost and third-largest main island. Featuring a humid, subtropical climate, the island is home to one of the world's largest active volcano craters, Mount Aso.
- Best for Hot springs and outdoor activities like hiking
- Notable points of interest: Mount Sakurajima, Kokura Castle, Glover Garden, Kumamoto Castle, and Peace Park
Beppu, which is located in the northern part of Kyushu's coastal Oita Prefecture, is one of the more popular hot spring resort towns on the island. Others include Yufuin, also in the Oita Prefecture, and Kurokawa, which is located in the Kumamoto Prefecture.
7 Okinawa Island
This sun-soaked, tropical island is located about 400 miles south of Kyushu. The fifth-largest island in Japan, there is much to do and see in Okinawa, from sunbathing on its sandy shores to visiting its historic castles.
- Best for beaches and water activities (snorkeling, diving, swimming, etc.)
- Notable points of interest: American Village (American-themed outdoor mall), Southeast Botanical Gardens, Shuri Castle, Okinawa World (theme park), Okinawa Prefectural Museum & Art Museum, Nakijin Castle Ruins, and Gyokusendo Cave
6 Shikoku Island
The smallest of Japan's four main islands, tourists may be wondering what makes Shikoku Island so famous. But despite its size, the quiet island offers visitors a wealth of outdoor adventures, from trekking through its numerous hiking trails to going kayaking on its whitewater rapids.
- Best for exploring off-the-beaten path
- Notable points of interest: Ritsurin Garden, Kochi Prefectural Makino Botanical Garden, Otsuka Museum of Art, Shikoku Karst (a scenic, mountainous road), Vine Bridge in the Iya Valley, and the Shikoku pilgrimage route
Separated from Honshu Island by the Seto Inland Sea, the island is composed of the Ehime, Kagawa, Kōchi, and Tokushima prefectures.
5 Ishigaki Island
Nestled in Japan’s southwestern Okinawa Prefecture, this island paradise is well-known for its clear, blue-green waters and sandy shores. The beautiful waters of Kabira Bay are a must-see during a visit to Ishigaki Island.
- Best for white, sandy beaches and water activities
- Notable points of interest: Oganzaki Lighthouse, Banna Park, Tamatorizaki Observation Platform, Ishigaki Stalactite Cave, and Kabira Bay
4 Rebun Island
Situated in the Sea of Japan off the coast of Hokkaido, Rebun Island is one of the country's hidden gems. Known as the "Floating Island of Flowers," Rebun is a treasure trove of native wildflowers and scenic hikes.
- Best for nature treks
- Notable points of interest: Cape Sukoton, Momoiwa Observatory, Momodai Nekodai Observatory, and the Cape Gorota Observation Deck
3 Sado Island
Paradise awaits in the Niigata Prefecture. Located in the eastern region of the Sea of Japan, Sado Island is famed for its rocky shores. With a rich history steeped in gold and silver mining, the island is perfect for the wanderlust explorer looking to learn more about Japan's enchanting past.
- Best for exploring Japan's gold mines and ancient ruins
- Notable points of interest: Futatsugame Beach, Sado Kinzan (gold mine), Toki Forest Park, and the Onogame (monolith)
Be sure to hop aboard a tub-boat for an exciting ride across the shimmering waters surrounding Sado.
2 Oki Islands
Located just off the coast of Honshu, the Oki Islands are a bucket-list destination like no other. The archipelago features a collection of uninhabited islands and four inhabited islands; Dogo, Nishinoshima, Nakanoshima, and Chiburijima.
- Best for soaking in Japan's natural beauty
- Notable points of interest: Kuniga Coast, Tsūtenkyō Arch, and the Akiya Coast
1 Nokonoshima Island
In addition to the island of Rebun, tourists visiting Japan can also find a flower oasis nestled right in Hakata Bay. Part of Fukuoka, the tiny island has a circumference of only about 7.5 miles. But, it still affords visitors much to see, including an abundance of seasonal flowers year-round.
- Best for a peaceful day trip
- Notable points of interest: Nokonoshima Island Park, Noko no Ichi market, and Nokonoshima Camp Ground
In addition to delectable local eats and interesting souvenirs, the Noko no Ichi market houses a visitor center for those looking to get more information on the beautiful island.