Relax in towns by the sea
Japan is a maritime-born nation. Here, you may enjoy the freshest sashimi, visit wooden storefronts from bygone eras, and watch squid dry on rotating racks in the sun. So it makes sense to recommend "relax in towns by the sea" on the list of best things to do in Japan.
Hayao Miyazaki, a master of anime, was inspired to create Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea by Tomonoura. No surprise there; the views from a hilltop temple are stunning, featuring verdant hills that protect traditional Japanese homes and a little harbor full of bobbing white boats.
The Oki Islands are a natural seaside haven with outcropping rock formations, peaceful sea coves, the tallest sea cliffs in Japan, old-world fishing communities, and beautiful waters all to yourself. You can see a variety of plants and perhaps even little grazing horses while on one of the many beach walks. Okinawa is an island paradise if you go really slowly.
Local tips: The nicest sunsets in Japan can be seen in Matsue. A torii gate can be seen in the distance on a shimmering island as the enormous red ball disappears into the lake.
