Why visit: If you aren’t into typical tourist spots, Kanazawa is the ‘untouched’ equivalent of Tokyo. Explore the majestic Kanazawa Castle, admire a blanket of cherry blossoms in Kenrokuen Garden, or wander around hidden staircases and secret passages lining the streets.

Best places to stay in: The Toyoko Inn Kanazawa Kenrokuen Korinbo (S$91/night), which scores highly on location, value and cleanliness; or the Ryokan Yamamuro (S$152/night), which reportedly has great hosts and warm service.

See: 5 places to see cherry blossoms in Japan

Why visit: If you’re an adventurous soul, this is the place to be. Diving enthusiasts will enjoy the pristine white beach and clear blue waters of Ishigaki’s Kabira Bay. Other highlights include hiking up the 528-metre-high Mount Omotodake and visiting the Tamatorizaki Observatory to get a sweeping, panaromic view of the island.

Best places to stay in: Hotel Patina Ishigakijima (S$136/night) for its location and value-for-money, and Club Med Kabira Beach (S$741/night) for its proximity to the beach.

Why visit: Tucked away in the cold mountains of Hida, the castle town is characterised by its well-preserved merchant districts and vintage wooden buildings that house everything from museums to traditional craft and food retailers.

See: 7 secret restaurants, stores & more to discover in Japan

Best places to stay in: If you’re thinking of experiencing a traditional Japanese lifestyle – think tatami floors and futon beds – then you have to try living like the locals at Ryokan Tanabe (S$373/night).

The largest city and capital of Japan’s Nagasaki Prefecture, Nagasaki is the perfect destination for history lovers. While it may be best known for its devastating past during World War 2, it also doubles as a scenic spot to tour Mount Inasa and the abandoned Hashima Island, which is known for its undersea coal mines (they’re reachable by cable car and boat respectively).

Best places to stay in: It may be challenging to find accommodation here that’s affordably priced and conveniently located, but Richmond Hotel Nagasaki Shianbashi (S$159/night) and Fujiwara Ryokan (S$135/night) tick both boxes.

Why visit: This resort town on the northern part of Mount Fuji is situated on the edge of Lake Kawaguchi. Its main draws: Natural hot springs, scenic golf courses, and hiking routes up the iconic volcano (tip: start from Fujikawaguchi along the Yoshida Trail).

Best places to stay in: If waking up to views of Mount Fuji appeals to you, head to Lakeside Kawaguchiko Sunnide Resort (S$462/night). But if traditional Japanese living sounds more meaningful, try the ryokan Konansou (S$608/night).

Like this? Check out these 3 new stylish hotels in Japan, Thailand & Sri Lanka, and put these stunning travel destinations to put on your bucket list.