Early summer is a beautiful season with lush greenery. Waterfalls that refresh your mood, spots perfect for driving, and breathtaking scenery ideal for photography are all great travel options for the summer.
Here are some hidden gems in Japan, perfect for a refreshing early summer getaway!
【Aomori Prefecture】Oirase Stream
The Oirase Stream is enveloped in a serene atmosphere, a treasure trove of stunning landscapes. The scenery, created by dense trees and crystal-clear streams, is breathtakingly beautiful and has been designated as a National Natural Monument of Japan.
From May to mid-July, during early summer, the greenery becomes especially vibrant, making it a highly recommended time to visit. Surrounded by negative ions, it’s perfect for cleansing the soul, making it an ideal hidden tourist spot.
In addition, the surrounding area features lakes, waterfalls, and dramatic cliffs, offering plenty of awe-inspiring sights. Well-maintained trails along the stream make it perfect for leisurely hiking.
- Oirase Stream (奥入瀬渓流)
- Address: Okuse, Towada City, Aomori Prefecture
- Access: From JR Tohoku Main Line Hachinohe Station, take the JR Bus “Oirase-go” toward Lake Towada, get off at Yasumiya Bus Stop, and walk a short distance.
【Gunma Prefecture】Oku-Shima Lake
Oku-Shima Lake is a hidden gem located deep within Gunma Prefecture’s famous Shima Onsen area. Renowned for its top-tier transparency in the Kanto region, the lake’s mystical water color is affectionately called “Shima Blue.”
From May to mid-July, the lake’s water is at its most enchanting, creating a stunning contrast with the green mountains! The rare “floating island,” visible only in early summer, is a must-see highlight!
Early summer is also the perfect season for cycling around the lake! After exploring, relax and unwind at a nearby hot spring to soothe your fatigue.
- Oku-Shima Lake (奥四万湖)
- Address: Shima, Nakanojo Town, Agatsuma District, Gunma Prefecture
- Access: From JR Agatsuma Line Nakanojo Station, take the Kan-etsu Kotsu Bus toward Shima Onsen, get off at the final stop, and drive for about 7 minutes.
【Shizuoka Prefecture】Shiraito Falls
Shiraito Falls is one of Japan’s three most famous waterfalls and part of the Top 100 Waterfalls of Japan. It showcases different charms in each season, but early summer is the best time to experience its refreshing vibe.
The waterfall cascades in multiple streams from a 20-meter-high, 150-meter-wide cliff, resembling white threads. The grandeur of the falls and the clarity of the pool below are major highlights.
Additionally, a visit to the nearby “Otodome Falls” is recommended. It’s a hidden spot perfect for those seeking unique waterfalls!
- Shiraito Falls (白糸ノ滝)
- Address: 273-1 Kamiide, Fujinomiya City, Shizuoka Prefecture (Shiraito Falls Parking Lot)
- Access: From JR Fujinomiya Station, take the Fuji Kyuko Shizuoka Bus, get off at Shiraito Falls Bus Stop, and walk a short distance.
【Gifu Prefecture】Tsukechikyo Gorge
Tsukechikyo Gorge is a top scenic spot in Gifu Prefecture, selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Forest Bathing Sites and Gifu’s Top 50 Famous Waters. In early summer, you can experience lush greenery and coolness, making it a perfect hidden spot to refresh your mood.
Along the approximately 860-meter trail, breathtaking views like “Kannon Falls” and “Fudo Falls” appear one after another. The variety of waterfalls is a delight, and the highly transparent pools are a must-see.
Additionally, the area offers a campsite, making it great for family outings.
- Tsukechikyo Gorge (付知峡)
- Address: Shimoura, Tsukechicho, Nakatsugawa City, Gifu Prefecture
- Access: From JR Chuo Main Line Nakatsugawa Station, take the Kita-Ena Kotsu Bus, get off at Tsukechikyo-guchi Bus Stop, and walk for about 1 hour.
【Shiga Prefecture】Biwako Terrace
Biwako Terrace is a sky-high café at 1,100 meters, offering exclusive panoramic views. From the terrace seats, you can overlook Japan’s largest lake, Lake Biwa, and enjoy a refreshing experience.
Due to its high altitude, it remains cool even in early summer, perfect for relaxing! Certified as a “Lovers’ Sanctuary,” it’s great for couples, and the stylish wooden deck is ideal for photos!
Additionally, it’s a trending hidden spot for enjoying an infinity pool with an exotic vibe! The attached facilities also offer outdoor activities.
- Biwako Terrace (びわ湖テラス)
- Address: 1547-1 Kido, Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture
- Ropeway Hours: 8:30–17:00 (Last ascent 16:00 / Last descent 17:00)
- Access: From JR Kosei Line Shiga Station, take a direct bus to Biwako Valley, then ride the ropeway for about 5 minutes.
【Osaka Prefecture】Minoo Falls
Minoo Falls is located within a vast 83.8-hectare national park and is part of Japan’s Top 100 Waterfalls. Its ever-changing seasonal beauty is captivating.
With a 33-meter drop, the waterfall’s powerful flow is awe-inspiring! Getting close to the pool allows you to feel its dynamic energy. The lush greenery of early summer and the refreshing feel of the falls create a comfortable experience!
Additionally, its convenient access from central Osaka by train is a major plus. A must-visit for those wanting to easily connect with nature!
- Minoo Falls (箕面大滝)
- Address: Minoo Park, Minoo City, Osaka Prefecture
- Access: About a 40-minute walk from Hankyu Minoo Line Minoo Station.
【Okayama Prefecture】Hiruzen Plateau
Hiruzen Plateau is a highland area offering panoramic natural views, blending the majestic Daisen Mountain in Japan’s Chugoku region with serene pastoral landscapes.
Early summer is the best time to enjoy the lush greenery, which contrasts beautifully with the blue sky!
Additionally, barbecuing at the attached campsite is a great activity. Don’t miss the view from the Kijodai Observatory, located about 900 meters high!
- Hiruzen Plateau (蒜山高原)
- Address: Hiruzen, Maniwa City, Okayama Prefecture
- Access: From JR Kishin Line Chugoku-Katsuyama Station, take the Maniwa City Community Bus “Maniwakun,” get off at Hiruzen Plateau Bus Stop, and walk a short distance.
【Yamaguchi Prefecture】Akiyoshidai
Akiyoshidai is a top destination in Yamaguchi Prefecture, designated as a national park and natural monument. As Japan’s largest karst plateau, the harmonious beauty of limestone and grasslands is unforgettable.
In early summer, the grasslands are lush and vibrant, making it the most spectacular time of year. Driving along the 10-kilometer Karst Road with stunning views is an exhilarating experience.
The famous Akiyoshido Cave, with its massive stalactites, is a must-visit. The cool cave interior is perfect for escaping the early summer heat!
- Akiyoshidai (秋吉台)
- Address: Akiyoshidaiyama, Akihacho, Mine City, Yamaguchi Prefecture
- Access: About 10 minutes from the Mine-Hagi Road Akiyoshidai IC.
【Kumamoto Prefecture】Nabegataki Falls
Nabegataki Falls is a mystical scenic spot that suddenly appears in the mountains. With a 10-meter drop and 20-meter width, the wide curtain-like flow of water is soothing to the soul.
Famous as a “Urami-no-Taki” (waterfall viewed from behind), Nabegataki’s early summer beauty, with lush greenery complementing the falls, creates an immersive refreshing atmosphere. The scene becomes even more mystical when sunlight filters through!
Additionally, nearby are Kumamoto Prefecture’s renowned hot springs, making a hot spring tour after exploring a great option.
- Nabegataki Falls (鍋ヶ滝)
- Address: Kurobuchi, Oguni Town, Aso District, Kumamoto Prefecture
- Hours: 9:00–17:00 (Last entry 16:30)
- Access: From JR Hohi Main Line Aso Station, take the Sanko Bus toward Tsuetate Onsen, get off at Yuu Station Bus Stop, and drive for about 15 minutes.
【Miyazaki Prefecture】Takachiho Gorge
Takachiho Gorge is hailed as one of Japan’s top power spots. Revered since ancient times as a sacred site tied to mythology, simply visiting it feels spiritually cleansing.
The gorge’s cooler temperatures make it comfortable to explore even as early summer warms up. The natural beauty, including the “Manai Falls” from Japan’s Top 100 Waterfalls, is awe-inspiring, with mist from the falls refreshing visitors up close.
A boat tour through the 7-kilometer-long, 80-meter-high cliffs offers an even more thrilling way to experience the gorge’s grandeur!
- Takachiho Gorge (高千穂峡)
- Address: Mukoyama, Takachiho Town, Nishi-Usuki District, Miyazaki Prefecture
- Boat Rental Hours: 8:30–17:00
- Closed: During bad weather or high water levels
- Access: From JR Nippo Main Line Nobeoka Station, take the Miyazaki Kotsu Bus toward Takachiho, get off at Takachiho Bus Center, and drive for about 5 minutes.
