Japan Off The Map began as a personal journey. I’m Josh, and for over a decade, I’ve been exploring Japan beyond the tourist trail, uncovering hidden villages, forgotten trails, and secret adventures. When I first arrived, I traveled with little planning, just following curiosity wherever it led me. But everything changed in 2017 when my first son was born. Suddenly, travel wasn’t just about adventure, it was about creating meaningful experiences for my family.

Our journey soon took us to Europe, and after spending four years between Brussels (where my second son was born in 2020) and Naples, we returned to Japan in 2021. Traveling with two young children made me dig deeper, seeking out historical sites, hidden gems, and immersive experiences beyond the usual tourist spots.

That return, after years away, reignited something. Being back in Japan sparked not one, but two projects: Japan Off The Map (JOTM), a slow-travel site dedicated to uncovering the country’s lesser-known landscapes and stories; and LuNi Travels, a family-oriented, child-focused adventure blog told through the eyes of our two sons. While JOTM invites readers into quiet paths and offbeat villages, LuNi shares the joy of discovery from a child’s point of view, one curious mission at a time.

That realization became the foundation for Japan Off The Map. My goal is simple: to build the most comprehensive English resource for discovering Japan’s lesser-known destinations. From hidden mountain trails and secluded onsens to forgotten villages and quiet nature escapes, this site is for those who want to experience the real Japan, beyond the obvious.

Every destination featured here is based on firsthand experience, either researched or personally visited by me or my wife (who’s Japanese and fluent in the language!). Whether solo or with the family, every journey is deeply explored so that you can plan yours with confidence.

But there’s another layer to this adventure: sustainability. Many of these off-the-beaten-path locations rely on delicate ecosystems, cultural heritage, and local traditions that risk being lost. That’s why we travel with intention,  respecting local cultures, treading lightly in nature, and helping preserve the places we visit and the hidden treasures for future generations.

Who is This Website For?

This site is for adventurous travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, and curious explorers who want to experience Japan beyond its famous landmarks. If you’re looking for:

  • Hidden hiking routes through forests and mountains.
  • Traditional villages and onsen towns with deep cultural significance.
  • Untouched nature you won’t find in mainstream guides.
  • Lesser-known historical sites that tell Japan’s forgotten stories.

Then JOTM is for you. This site is built for those ready to step off the beaten path and experience a side of Japan that few travelers ever see.

My Approach to Content

Unlike many travel blogs that focus on short-term visits, JOTM takes a slow-travel approach, spending time in each destination, uncovering its history, and understanding its significance. Every place featured here is the result of immersive travel, long stays, deep research, and a commitment to uncovering stories that few travelers ever hear.

This means you get detailed, practical, and insightful guides to help you plan your own adventure with confidence. I also prioritize sustainability and responsible tourism, offering guidance on eco-friendly travel, local customs, and ways to support small communities, ensuring these incredible places can be enjoyed for generations to come.

Why This Logo?

At Japan Off The Map, we believe the best adventures happen when you step beyond the obvious and embrace the unknown. Our logo reflects that philosophy.

The Zen circle (Enso), drawn with a bold, textured brushstroke, represents exploration, movement, and imperfection, a reminder that travel isn’t about reaching a final destination but about the journey itself. The red-to-black gradient symbolizes the contrast between the well-known and the undiscovered, mirroring the transition from Japan’s bustling cities to its hidden rural landscapes, untamed wilderness, and forgotten villages.

Most importantly, the circle remains open, with the brushstroke extending beyond the boundary. This unfinished stroke represents the endless possibilities of exploration, because no matter how many trails you hike or villages you uncover, there will always be more waiting beyond the map.

This logo isn’t just a design; it’s an invitation, an invitation to venture off the beaten path, embrace curiosity, and experience a side of Japan that few travelers ever see.

Welcome to Japan Off The Map… The adventure starts here.