TOKYO -- Tourists are flocking to Japan in record numbers, with most wandering the so-called "golden route" that takes them through Tokyo and Kyoto. But those spending relatively long holidays here are also trekking to destinations somewhat off the beaten path.
Stefan Schauwecker of japan-guide.com notes that tourists are especially taken by the country's spirituality, nature and countryside. "Locations related to samurai, five-story pagodas, temples and Japanese gardens fit the image of Japan, and are thus popular," he said.
