Why are we always seeking for the next adventure? While adventure experiences vary from one to another, we all want the opportunity to embark on the unknown, while taking ourselves out of our comfort zone in order to see things from a fresh perspective and on a deeper level.
As humans, we are drawn to elements that include activity, nature and intercultural experiences. Japan is not only rich in cultural activities, there are also endless opportunities for adventurous travel and they’re all yours to explore. Perhaps these options might peak your interest during your next trip to the Land of the Rising Sun.
Ametsuchi Sightseeing Train
To quote someone, “trains are more than just a mode of transportation.” In Japan, locals are accustomed to this special concept called “Joyful” trains. People hop on board these special rides to enjoy the views en route the San’in coastal area. The Ametsuchi sightseeing train runs between Tottori and Izumoshi stations. The train will even slow down at certain sections to allow passengers to snap some photos and enjoy the scenic views of the San’in mountain ranges, Mount Daisen, Lake Shinji-ko, the Hii-kawa River, and the Sea of Japan.
Inspired by local legends, Ametsuchi (meaning Heaven and Earth) is derived from the oldest Japanese book, Kojiki. Travelers can even admire the exterior and interior decor that are adorned with local handicrafts – such as washi paper, wood panels, and Sekishu tiles – to reflect the traditional motifs and patterns from the legend.
Tips:
- It’s advisable to make reservations ahead of time as there’s only 1 train service per day in each direction.
- The Ametsuchi only stops at these stations: Tottori, Kurayoshi, Yonaga, Yugi, Matsui, Tamatsukuri-Onsen and Izumoshi.
Tottori Sand Dunes
At first glance, this vast area covered in sand may look like a large beach or desert. However, the Tottori Sand Dunes (鳥取砂丘) is a lot more – this attraction spans roughly 16 kilometers of coast along of the Sea of Japan and is Tottori’s biggest tourist draw. Climbing 50 meters to the peak will provide visitors with a magical scenery where the ocean, sky and golden sand beaches combined in a single spectacular frame (especially with a wide angle). Depending on the season, you might spot paragliders soaring across the sky or camels trotting over the dunes.
- Address: 2164-971 Fukubecho Yuyama, Tottori, 689-0105, Japan
- Contact: +81 857-22-0021
- Website:https://www.sakyu-vc.com/en
- Nearby station: Tottori Station
Setouchi Glamping
If you’re looking to relax in a wide-open space with direct access to the ocean and its surrounding nature, then Setouchi Glamping is your answer. Located at the Setonaikai National Park in Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture, Shimoden Hotel launched Setouchi Glamping a few years ago.
Travelers who opt for glamping (or glamorous camping) at the dome tent lodging have the pleasures of outdoor recreation in a lush natural setting while enjoying the amenities and convenience of a hotel.
Setouchi Glamping not only has an unobstructed view of Japan’s largest inland sea, Setonaikai, it also expands to the Great Seto Bridge or Seto Ohashi double deck bridges connecting Okayama and Kagawa.
Besides strolling along the seashore or through pine forests, guests can also take part in yoga, hiking at Mt. Washu, fishing, BBQ at the pergola, or even island hopping (where couples can hire a boat to watch sunset at a nearby island.
- Address: 1666-2 Obatake, Kurashiki, Okayama 711-0924, Japan
- Contact: 086-479-7111
- Website: http://shimoden.bonvoyage.co.jp/glamping/
- Prices: JYP 25000+/ pax during non-peak, JYP 50000+/ pax during peak season
- Nearby train station: JR Seto-Ōhashi Line Kojima Station
- Shuttle bus service are provided for guests from JR Kojima Station
Mori-no-Kuni Daisen Field Athletics
There’s no better place to let your inner child run free than being surrounded by mother nature. “Mori-no-Kuni” (which means Forest Kingdom) is one of the largest adventure parks in Japan located at the foot of Mount Daisen in Daisen Oki National Park. Spanning 70,000 square meters, this massive facility has around 30 nature activities, 50 different types of athletic play equipment, and over 80 campgrounds in its vicinity.
Some of highlights at Mori-no-Kuni Daisen Field Athletics include Shower Climbing (where you’ll climb a river and small waterfalls before taking a plunge in water streams), Zip Lining through the forest, Hiking, Canyoning, Mountain biking, and even Ski lessons as well as Snowshoeing during winter season. There are also fun obstacle courses that are perfect for team building and group activities. From beginners to active thrillseekers, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
- Address: 1634 Akamatsu, Daisen Town, Saihaku County, Tottori Prefecture
- Contact: (+81) 0859-53-8036
- Website: http://www.sanin.com/daisen/morinokuni/main.html
- Nearby station: JR Yonago Station
Tsutenkaku Observatory Tower Slider
Although it only debuted last year, the Tower Slide amusement ride in Tsutenkaku Tower has been a hot attraction among locals and tourists alike when visiting Osaka. The 60-meter Tower Slider takes you on a 10-second exhilarating ride from the third floor’s observation deck all the way down the spiraling slide. Interestingly, the Tower Slider isn’t built within the main shaft of the Tsutenkaku Tower but connected to the adjacent EV Tower. Since the tube has a transparent top, you can even marvel at the cityscape. The thing is, the ride goes by so quickly that you’ll probably want a second go at it.
At 108 meters high, Tsutenkaku Tower has 5 floors plus a basement.
- B1 floor Wakuwaku Land: In addition to the ticket counter, you can find food products and merchandise here.
- 1st floor: Tsutenkaku’s first-ever ceiling mural.
- 2nd floor: Muscle Man Project Archives Corner, Capsule Toy Corner + Jan Jan Town.
- 3rd floor: Exhibition showcasing dioramas, videos, and pictures of old Shinsekai from 100 years ago.
- 4th floor: Light Observation Platform that transforms into a Disco with sparky lighting and mirror balls at night.
- 5th floor: The Golden Observation Platform where you’ll find the Deity of Good Fortune “Billiken-san”.
- 5th floor: Special Outdoors Observation Platform – A panoramic view of Osaka from the top.
- Address: 1-18-6, Ebisuhigashi, Naniwa-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka, 556-0002
- Contact: 06-6641-9555
- Opening hours: 10am – 8pm (last admission 7:30pm)
- Tower Slider Price: ¥1,000
- Nearby train station: Ebisucho Station
Universal Studios Japan
With its thrilling rides, iconic movie experiences and immersive attractions, Universal Studios Japan never fails to live up to people’s expectations. The rides from Jurassic Park and Wizarding World of Harry Potter, for example, are edgier, thrilling and fast-paced. Even the movie-related entertainment (e.g.: Jaws) cater more to adults.
Don’t get us wrong though, Universal Studios also has plenty kid-friendly attractions like the must-visit Super Nintendo World where you get to race on the Mario Kart and Minion Park (to experience the Despicable Me Minion Mayhem). If you’re on the fence about getting the supplementary express pass at Universal Studios Japan, do consider checking the crowd calendar to see the projected number of visitors each day.
Nearby train station: Nishikujo Station provides a direct line to Universal City Station from most major areas in Osaka. More tips from its official website here.
