52 Travel Destinations That Are Perfect for People Who Hate Crowds

By

Akanksha Sharma

March 3, 2026

17. Yakushima, Japan: An Ancient Forest Wonderland

Vibrant scenery of a river in the middle of a forest in Yakushima, Japan. Photo Credit: Envato @wirestock

While Tokyo and Kyoto are packed with visitors, Yakushima—a misty, ancient island in southern Japan—offers a tranquil escape into one of the world’s most enchanting forests. This UNESCO-listed island is home to some of the oldest cedar trees in the world, many over 1,000 years old. The moss-covered landscapes of Shiratani Unsuikyo are said to have inspired Studio Ghibli’s Princess Mononoke, giving the island a mystical, almost surreal atmosphere. With its hidden waterfalls, pristine hiking trails, and near-zero crowds, Yakushima is a breathtaking alternative to Japan’s well-trodden tourist circuit.

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