Just before the three-day summer holiday! 5 hidden gems to enjoy while avoiding crowds
The three-day summer holiday (July 20-22) is just around the corner.
However, all popular tourist spots are crowded...
Therefore, this time, we will introduce a carefully selected selection of "hidden spots where you can enjoy nature and walking around the city in summer while avoiding crowds".
All of these are places that can be enjoyed by same-day reservations and day trips.
1. Yamanashi Hokuto City "Kiyosato Highland Cool Trail"
Kiyosato Plateau, which is over 1,200 meters above sea level, can be accessed in about two and a half hours from the city center.
The meadow area where the refreshing breeze blows through and the soft serve ice cream at Seisen Dormitory are popular in the local area.
There are many routes that are friendly to hiking beginners, and it is also a hidden gem as a summer resort.
2. Shiga, Omihachiman "Quiet time with canals and retro townscapes"
Take a short break from the hustle and bustle of Kyoto and head to the quiet town of Omi merchants.
While being swayed by the boat touring Hachimanbori, time flows leisurely.
There are relatively few tourists, and the photos are outstanding.
3. Miyagi and Matsushima "Contrarian trip" aiming for a spectacular view of the morning glow"
Matsushima, one of Japan's three most scenic spots, is crowded with tourists during the day, but visiting early in the morning is truly a hidden gem.
While watching the large and small islands dyed in the morning glow, it is also recommended to travel alone with a camera in hand.
4. Okayama, Ushiso: "Island time healed in the Aegean Sea of Japan"
Ushimado, a quiet port town in the Seto Inland Sea, has an atmosphere like an overseas resort.
It is also fun to take a ferry to a small island and rent a bicycle to take a leisurely tour.
There are also stylish cafes scattered around.
5. Kumamoto, Hitoyoshi Onsen "Rivers, hot springs, and old-fashioned atmosphere"
Hitoyoshi, the center of Kyushu, is known as a hot spring resort along a mountain stream.
SL Hitoyoshi and the retro shopping street are also attractive, and it is a valuable hot spring resort with relatively few crowds even in summer.
Conclusion
Avoid the crowds of popular tourist destinations and enjoy a quiet and comfortable trip.
Such a "contrarian summer trip" may be the perfect choice for a three-day holiday.
The moment I came up with it was the best departure day.
I hope it will be helpful for those who have been worried about where to go.
*The information in this article is current as of July 18, 2025. Plan safely according to local weather and traffic conditions.