Updated on November 8, 2024

Japan has many amazing man-made structures that have a rich history behind it. But Japan also holds some amazing structures and places that aren't the result of a person's hand, and are simply the result of nature. Although many of these places have been altered slightly by human hands to make it accessible to visitors, the elements of nature can still be observed, and are a spectacular sight to behold!

1. Mt. Fuji

Of course we have to start off the list with one of the most famous and popular sights in Japan. Mt. Fuji is an active volcano located on the border of Yamanashi and Shizuoka prefecture on Honshu Island. Many people come to Japan to see Mt. Fuji and sometimes trek up it as well, while others visit as a sort of pilgrimage. There are many places by the base of the mountain where you can stay to gaze upon the mountain but it depends on cloud visibility. Nevertheless, this is a must visit for those in Japan who enjoy looking at natural wonders.

There are loads to do around the Mount Fuji area. You can climb Mount Fuji and tour the lakes nearby as well!

2. Abukumado cave

Abukumado cave is a large limestone cave located in the Fukushima prefecture. After the cave was discovered, they started to make it more accessible to visitors and installed various, pretty lights throughout the cave, however you can still enjoy the natural rock formations of stalactites and stalagmites. There are two main courses through the cave, one being trickier to navigate than the other, but is worth a visit if you enjoy exploring caves.

Explore the other caves of Japan as well. There are many throughout Japan!

3. Tottori Sandhill

The only large sand dune in Japan, this is a popular destination for locals. Desert vibes are evoked when visiting this place due to the large sand dune mimicking the sloping sands of hot, desert locations, but it's located by the Sea of Japan. The sand dune is a natural occurring phenomenon, but due to reforestations and barriers being built, the dune has been slowly dwindling down. Still, it's a neat place to visit in Tottori, Japan.

4. Akiyoshi Limestone Cave

Akiyoshi Cave is Japan's largest limestone cave and is a popular place to visit. Visitors are greeted by a beautiful water at the entrance before they enter the cave. Visitors have the option between two paths as well.

5. Takachiho Gorge

Takachiho Gorge is located in the Miyazaki prefecture and is a must see for those who can't get enough of natural, scenic places. Visitors can either rent a boat and row down a river up to a waterfall, or walk on a path. The area is absolutely stunning, and just another natural wonder that Japan has to offer.

6. Fukiware no Taki Waterfall

The Fukiware no Taki is a waterfall that has been labeled the Niagara Falls of Japan. Although nowhere close to the size, the waterfall does resemble Niagara Falls in a scaled-down version. It's a beautiful place to visit for those who love looking at waterfalls and is located in Gunma prefecture.

If you're not in the area, don't worry! There are many other waterfalls in Japan that you can visit.

7. Narusawa Ice Cave

The Narusawa Ice Cave is an interesting and magical-looking natural wonder. Originally a lava cave, through weathering processes, ice formed within it creating pillars of ice.  This is a neat place to view if you're interested in natural monuments.

8. Beppu Onsen

In Beppu, Oita in Japan, there are a series of hot springs scattered around that are naturally occurring. The number of hot spring vents with steam rising are fascinating to watch. Although some of the hot springs have been altered by man, the water comes from natural hot springs within the land. Visitors can also enjoy some of the hot springs by going for a dip. You can even enjoy a relaxing experience with a hot sand bath!

Japan is filled with beauty no matter where you go. Okinawa and Hokkaido aren't part of the main island of Japan, and they each have some unique sights specific to the type of environment that it is. There are also many other beautiful wonders to explore on the main island as well.

Some of our tours allow you to see some of the natural beauty of the land, so feel free to check them out as well!

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