Mountains cover about 70% of Japan, and its coastline runs for some 35,000 km.
From the sea cliffs of Oki and the Yatsugatake highlands to sunsets over the East China Sea and rice terraces lining a quiet cove, Locally writers who live in each area show you how to enjoy these views and how to get there.
01
![[Shimane] Scenic Drive in Nishinoshima: Explore the Island’s Breathtaking Coastal Views](https://resources.matcha-jp.com/resize/720x2000/2026/10/28-273495.webp)
A scenic drive around Nishinoshima in the Oki Islands. Take in the highlights of the Kuniga Coast in turn, from the 257-meter Matengai cliff to the Tsutenkyo sea arch, with tips for driving roads where cattle and horses graze freely.
02
![[2 hours from Tokyo ] Stunning scenery of Hokuto City Yamanashi City, that changes with the seasons: cherry blossoms, sunflowers, autumn leaves, and snowscapes](https://resources.matcha-jp.com/resize/720x2000/2026/09/28-271351.webp)
A highland town ringed by the Yatsugatake range and the Southern Alps, with views of Mt. Fuji. Spring cherry blossoms, summer sunflowers, autumn leaves and winter snow each bring a different view. Just two hours from Tokyo, it makes an easy day trip.
03
![[Yufuin] Yunohira Onsen: A Hidden Gem of Red Lanterns and Ancient Stone Paths](https://resources.matcha-jp.com/resize/720x2000/2026/03/03-260208.webp)
About 30 minutes by car from Yufuin, Yunohira Onsen still keeps its “stone path of prayer” from the Edo period. After dark, some 300 red lanterns light the sloping street and the whole hot spring town becomes a picture.
04
The island-dotted Seto Inland Sea, the white-walled storehouses of Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter, a torii gate standing in the sea: 15 photogenic spots in Okayama and Hiroshima, in a guide you can use to plan your sightseeing.
05
Mt. Yotei, the “Fuji of Ezo,” from the best angle in each season: its reflection in still water, potato blossoms, autumn leaves and morning glow. The local tourism association shares where to shoot and when.
06
Ofukazawa Bridge set against the autumn colors of Naruko Gorge is an iconic Miyagi fall scene. Five spots to enjoy away from the crowds, including the Naruko Dam lookout and reflections on the lake, with the best viewing times.
07
The mountains of Mie and Nara from the summit of Mt. Takami, and Ise Bay from the lookout on Mt. Horisaka. On autumn mornings a sea of clouds can fill the valleys. Three mountains that even beginners can climb.
08
![[Tsuruga/ Wakasa Area] A view overlooking the end of summer](https://resources.matcha-jp.com/resize/720x2000/2026/09/11-270650.webp)
At the Hibiki rice terraces, one of Japan's 100 best, about 200 paddies step down toward a cove, layering the blue of the sea with the green of the fields. Plus a panorama of Wakasa Bay from the Mt. Kusuyagatake lookout.
09
Cycle the Nishiumi Peninsula in Ainan, near the southern tip of Shikoku. On clear days you can see Kyushu from Cape Komo, and stone walls climb the slopes of the “Village of Stone Walls.” A one-day model route.
10
![[Kagoshima] Enjoy Minamisatsuma City to the Fullest! A Guide to the Scenic Beauty and Culture of Five Areas](https://resources.matcha-jp.com/resize/720x2000/2026/02/15-258755.webp)
The “Eight Views of the Minamisatsuma Coast,” where the sun sets over the East China Sea; Kamegaoka above a jagged ria coastline; and Mt. Kinpo with its 360-degree panorama. Each of the five areas has its own view.
11
The whole of Kozushima in the Izu Islands is certified as a Dark Sky Place. Even the streetlights are designed to limit light pollution, so the Milky Way spreads overhead on clear nights. Canopus, rising just above the horizon, is a star best seen from an island.
We'll keep adding scenic spots from all over Japan.
Stay tuned for our latest articles.
