Planning a trip to Japan? Apart from indulging in the usual city life and visiting tourist destinations in the country, visit the beautiful towns of Ishigaki and Takayama. These two together have created a travel buzz like none before!
Head to the pristine blue waters and sandy beaches of Ishigaki, the island town which has earned the ranking of being the number one destination in the world. It is the most trending travel spot of 2018.
The island has topped TripAdvisor’s ‘Destinations on the Rise’ list. The awards, now in its sixth year, recognise 44 destinations around the world selected by measuring year-over-year increase in positive TripAdvisor traveller review ratings for accommodations, restaurants and attractions, as well as increase in search and booking interest.
Let’s have a look at what these towns have to offer.
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Ishigaki, Japan
Ishigaki is the largest of the Yaeyama Islands in Japan’s Okinawa Prefecture. Contrary to its name which literally means ‘stone wall’, Ishigaki is an island that is surrounded by water. Cocooned with white sandy shores, coral reefs, translucent blue waters and virgin beaches, this destination is ideal for a relaxed, hassle free holiday.
It is gaining ground as a popular diving spot and is extremely popular with snorkelers. It is a gorgeous scenic spread which enthrals people and attracts them to this location.
Also, a divine spot for food lovers; Ishigaki is known for its soba noodles, called Yaeyama soba. It is made of flour instead of the more traditional buckwheat.
It has been tipped as the new Bali or Hawaii, and international tourism is growing rapidly here.
Some of the well-known beaches in Ishigaki are –
• Kabira Bay – this is a stunning emerald blue bay with perfect yellow-white beaches, dotted by craggy islands.
• Sukuji Beach – this is two kilometres west of Kabira. The sea is the shallowest here and is ideal for a relaxed paddle in the ocean.
• Yonehara – the currents are known to be strong here yet it provides enough adventure for snorkelers and divers.
Takayama, Japan
A city located in the mountainous Gifu Prefecture; Takayama’s appeal lies in its beautifully preserved towns and historical districts. The best seasons to catch its beauty are spring and autumn. The famous Takayama Festival, with its heavily decorated festival floats, is a major tourist attraction. This festival dates back to the mid-1600s, celebrating spring and fall with parades featuring ornate, gilded floats and puppet shows.
Enough reasons to plan a holiday for the upcoming spring break. Japan, with these trending locales, promises to charm you.