JAPAN

WHY IT’S HOT: GRAB SOME SOUTHERN COMFORT IN THE LAND OF THE RISING SUN.

We say: Tourism in Japan is now much more than Tokyo’s neon head-rush. Its rural corners hold just as much intrigue and, with new direct flights from London to Osaka (from 31 March), a new world is opening up further south for travellers. While the port city is famed for its food – its okonomiyaki pancakes are legendary – it’s also a mainline to the islands beyond. The Seto Inland Sea separates it from nearby Shikoku, which still has the feel of a remote escape, with pilgrimage trails leading up into its misty mountains and world-class cycling along its coast.

Further south, Kyushu is even further off the tourist trail, pocked with forest onsen (hot springs), ancient castles (Kumamoto is one of Japan’s finest) and great hiking around Mount Aso. Beyond, dripping out into the East China Sea, lie the Ryukyu Islands, ringed with colourful reefs and clear waters. Even fewer travellers venture out here – which is why you should!

Don’t miss: The 1,200km-long Shikoku Pilgrim Trail links 88 temples and lush cedar forests. Walk the whole thing (minimum 40 days) or just try one of the easier sections.