We've all done it before: cramming our days with back-to-back activities, hopping from one landmark to the next, only to come home from our so-called holiday feeling more exhausted than when we left.
If you need some ideas for a more calm travel experience, Tatler Asia recently highlighted a list of destinations around the world where "doing nothing feels just right." Among them were a couple of quiet gems right here in Japan, proving that you don’t need a jam-packed schedule to have a meaningful trip. In fact, slowing down might be the very thing that makes it memorable!
Maebashi-Akagi, Gunma Prefecture
Located just a couple of hours from Tokyo, Maebashi-Akagi offers a gentle escape from city life. This quiet region is part of the global Cittaslow movement, which celebrates slower living and strong community ties.
Maebashi, the capital of Gunma Prefecture, is known for its riverside parks, seasonal flowers, and relaxed pace. Often called the "City of Water, Greenery, and Poets," it has a strong literary and cultural presence, with museums and festivals celebrating local artists. It's also a gateway to nearby onsen towns like Ikaho, and home to comfort foods such as yakimanju and Mizusawa udon.
Just northeast of the city lies Mount Akagi, a dormant volcano popular for hiking, cycling, and scenic drives. Its slopes are packed with color in autumn, and Lake Onuma near the summit offers boating in summer and ice fishing in winter. The mountain is also famous among fans of Initial D, a cult racing anime that featured its winding roads in dramatic downhill drift scenes. Easily reached from Maebashi, Akagi is a quick escape into cooler air, open views, and a side of pop culture history.
Biei and Furano, Hokkaido
In central Hokkaido, Biei and Furano are well known for their quiet, scenic landscapes. Biei is a great place for a slow drive or bike ride, with country roads that pass through farmland, rolling hills, and open fields. The views change with the seasons, and there are plenty of small stops along the way for local snacks or photo spots like the Blue Pond.
Furano, just a short distance away, is especially popular in summer for its lavender fields and in winter for its powder snow. It’s a good place to take things at your own pace, with small cafés, markets, and family-run inns that make it easy to unwind. While both towns draw visitors year-round, they’ve kept a relaxed, local feel that makes them ideal for a slower getaway. If you're looking to step away from busy city travel, Biei and Furano offer a quieter side of Hokkaido.
