Don't go to Tokyo, these smaller cities in Japan are more interesting!

I've been living in Japan for almost a year without realizing it. In addition to the well-known Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, I've also visited quite a few smaller cities. Here are some of my personal favorite small cities for those who are struggling to decide where to go (in no particular order) ⭕ Takamatsu Takamatsu is the capital of Kagawa Prefecture in Shikoku, and it was the first place I visited on my trip to Japan 10 years ago. It has a famous nickname as the hometown of udon noodles, so you can enjoy various kinds of udon here. Also, the triennial 'Setouchi Triennale' art festival is an event not to be missed, and from Takamatsu Port, it's very convenient to travel to treasure islands such as Shodoshima, Naoshima, and Teshima. ⭕ Kochi It could be said to be the most low-key capital city in the Shikoku region. This is the hometown of the anti-shogunate warrior Sakamoto Ryoma. During my half-day city walk in Kochi, I truly felt the city's tranquil atmosphere. Additionally, I particularly like Kochi's trams, which have super cute liveries. ⭕ Tokushima Tokushima is also a place I visited on my first trip to Japan. The Awa Dance is a local specialty here, and you must see it. Also, the Iya Valley is a great place to escape the summer heat. ⭕ Onomichi A small city facing Shikoku across the sea from Honshu, it has both mountains and sea, and cycling is very popular here. Cycling from Onomichi to Shikoku's 'Shimanami Kaido' is known as Japan's most beautiful cycling route. Ramen and oysters are local specialties here. Oh, and Yasujiro Ozu's famous work 'Tokyo Story' was also filmed in Onomichi. ⭕ Kanazawa The largest city in the Hokuriku region of Japan. It is also a city with a 'high gold content.' Ninety-nine percent of Japan's gold leaf is produced here, so you can buy various gold leaf products, including food and drinks containing gold leaf. Additionally, one of Japan's three great gardens, Kenrokuen, is also located in Kanazawa. ⭕ Saga Saga in Kyushu is often rated as one of the cities in Japan with the least presence. But after going to Saga, I fell in love with it. Saga's ramen and Wagyu beef are really delicious, and the key is that they are much cheaper than in big cities. A double portion of Saga beef for just over 5000 yen is incredibly tempting. ⭕ Hakodate I've been to Hakodate twice, once in autumn and once in winter. Compared to Sapporo, Hakodate is much more interesting. From Mount Hakodate, you can see the million-dollar night view, and Goryokaku Park is a treasure with beautiful scenery all year round.