Japans Countryside Towns | Beauty Outside the City | Abandoned Town | Destination Adventure

I came to Japan with a bit of a plan, but left lots of time open just to get out and explore. I have always found the most exciting things when I am just out exploring, taking the roads most would not, and letting my curiosity take over. We left Nagoya with a known destination of Mt. Fuji, but we gave ourselves two days to get there, and that was the best decision. We chose to stay off the freeway, and take a long windy route instead. Along these countryside routes, you go through town after town with beautiful traditional homes, many dating back much more than 100 years. Some parts of these town are full of Akiya, which translates to empty home. These homes are not technically "abandoned" but they are unfortunately just left to be taken over by the elements. Japan has a bit of an issue with population decline currently, which is leaving behind a growing number of these empty homes. As the elderly population is passing away, these homes are handed down to the children, but there is not enough of a population to be able to sell the house. The workload is also quite demanding in Japan, which doesn't allow the time necessary to maintain a home. The final problem is that the population has been moving more and more into the cities, and young people have no desire to be in the countryside. It is difficult to understand the history of each location I visit, especially with language barrier and duration of stay, but this whole trip was an absolute delight. We got to eat some absolutely delicious seafood, see some city and some country, as well we got to do some walking all through a mostly abandoned town. There was clearly some industry in that town at some point, but there is not enough left behind to even have an educated guess as to what it was. Finally, we finish our trip at the beautiful Mt. Fuji. I have seen the mountain a few times before from a plane, but this was my first chance seeing it in person. Our first day in town unfortunately Fuji was in the clouds, but day two was a blue bird day and wow was that beautiful. The wind was blowing hard that morning and you could see large clouds of snow blowing off the peak.
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[@bobmanzi7712]

Dustin, do you know what I noticed first? There was no graffiti, no trash, nothing on the streets. The place was spotless talk about respect. As always great stuff thanks. Your drone footage was Awesome

[@gorillagoldhunters]

Cause the laws are stiff, not like here in America where if ur mental it’s ok. Check out the punishment for littering… or defacement of public property lol 10 years lol

[@btimec5290]

Yeah I love that about Japan. They are not anti-social, and they care about doing things well. We could learn a thing or two from them.

[@s.porter8646]

Cause cut and dry you got to jail for three weeks and eat fish heads while they decide what to charge you with...99% conviction rate...

[@ThePinkpanther1963]

It's considered rude to eat while walking. Or even chowing gum. We have three bins in the house. Plastic, paper, cans.

[@toddingram1198]

One of my low key wins of 2023 was discovering your channel. Really grateful for what you do. All the best Dustin!

[@Destination_Adventure]

I appreciate that, thank you.

[@schwags1969]

Oh, indeed. Watch all of his content, he is a real story teller with good presentation.

[@TheRealBobSaget]

Dude….WOW! This series in Japan has really shown just how skilled you are as a cinematographer. Seriously, your shots all have such purpose and tie together beautifully. Quick flashes of locals and their daily lives just make it feel so immersive and alive. And don’t get me started on that shot of the two trains passing! You truly have a unique ability to document and share these experiences and I’m so glad you bring us all along. Cheers!

[@Destination_Adventure]

Thank you so much. I was incredibly excited about the shot with the trains. 😊

[@VelcorHF]

Dude, you’re doing such a great job with this series. I really enjoyed just going places that you guys are going and the exploration that you do. It’s not some influencer who’s getting tossed in a resort this is a real look at the things you can see if you come to Japan, keep them coming man. Looking forward to everything you’re doing in this off-season.

[@Destination_Adventure]

Thank you. 😊

[@2times2is4]

Such a beautiful , unspoiled place. The total lack of trash and vandalism was refreshing to see. Complete opposite of things in America.

[@blueman5924]

I enjoy watching wherever you go, and whatever you film, and this Japan series is a nice change from our BC scenery. Your narration and musical tracks are spot on too. Best wishes for 2024 ! 🍁🤙

[@landlice48]

I’ve been to Japan several times, sometimes for business, and others for pleasure. Watching your skilled photography and commentary is a perfect way to ‘see’ parts of Japan through your eyes. A million thanks for your amazing channel. 🎉wishing you a great upcoming year in 2024.

[@Destination_Adventure]

Thank you 😊

[@marybennett5724]

"I bought this for you." 😂😂😂 Oh my god, hilarious! I am just loving your Japan adventures. Thanks for bringing us all along and thanks to Emi for her added knowledge and contributions!

[@MrTonyPiscatelle]

You never cease to amaze my viewing pallet . I can only imagine what heights you will achieve . Your sense of editing must be top notch because what you show us the viewers is as good or even better than so many documentaries I have watched . Be safe and fill our eyes and minds with more beautiful things.

[@Destination_Adventure]

I really appreciate that, thank you. 😊

[@DragonflyenAmber]

What an awesome trip you are having, very glad to see you are both safe after the earthquake last week. Such a beautiful country, thanks for taking us with you!

[@andrea6421]

The people in Japan take pride in where they live and it shows. Thank you for another awesome video 😊

[@linda4th]

The drone gootage was excellent (not that I would expect anything less) and the countryside is incredible. There is so much to love about Japan, including the respect they have for everything (nografitti). Thank you so much for taking us on this wonderful adventure.

[@JimRO79]

"I got this for you" 🤣 The Akiya that you see are testiment to the absolute respect that people have for others in Japan. I follow a few Urbex channels who have explored there and it's always amazing to see absolutely no graffiti or vandalisation - what you see is the purest form of the effect of age, the elements and mother nature retaking the land. Mt Fuji did reveal herself for you at the end there then - maybe when you return, you should try the climb to the top, hopefully clear enough to see the sunrise? Looks so lovely, any opportunity to see more is very much appreciated, so thanks as always for taking us along

[@Destination_Adventure]

I’d love to climb that mountain. Maybe not to the summit, but if it’s allowed, I’d like to get off the trail and do some freestylin up there. :)

[@JimRO79]

Aww, but ya need to look inside the crater at the top! It might be like Mt Vesuvius in Italy where you can buy a pack of vastly over-priced geological samples taken from the caldera around it. How about one of those trail cross motorbikes to see how far up the side you could get before it becomes too steep?! 😋@@Destination_Adventure

[@user-qf1it8jc9y]

You can climb to the top, you can spend the night in a lodge. you can't go off the trails and I believe there is no skiing. It's a national shrine and respected as such. But what a hike!@@Destination_Adventure

[@coldwind]

As an American who has been living in Japan for nearly 13 years, this country never ceases to amaze me with it's beauty, kind people, and rich culture.

[@ashleymoorhouse1749]

I lived in Okinawa, Japan as a kid and Iwakuni, Japan as an adult. These videos are making me miss it so much! Love the culture and the landscape, everything!

[@stormchaser300]

You have to go to the Japanese town of dolls in Nagoro. Nagoro is a slowly shrinking village located in the valleys of Shikoku, Japan. Populated by creepy dolls, it might make you question the reality. Its really worth the visit the lady that makes them Tsukimi Ayano still lives there if you meet her she will make a doll of you.

[@ginrobi01]

What beautiful scenery, and that fish market blew my mind. I'm not a fish person, I can't get past the texture, but to see how it's run is incredible! Spectacular views, polite people... what an awesome adventure!

[@tashav4686]

Thank you for taking us along! The country is still quite developed! Interesting! That bamboo forest is so neat!

[@cochranedodge2]

We have lots to learn from Japanese culture. Great video Dustin.

[@georgeattig8088]

Dustin you are amazing. Even in a foreign country, you can find bits of old structures in the forest. Way to go, and keep going!

[@Destination_Adventure]

😊

[@btimec5290]

AMAZING. I could watch hours of this. Please stay in Japan and explore more!!

[@jcmartin-42]

We didn't watch last week. We're not big people people, we love the outdoor stuff. Maybe we'll try to watch this one? Please come home soon...

[@bc30cal99]

Happy New Year from the still warm south Okanagan, thanks for sharing the views of Japan with us. I was hoping you both missed the worst of the earthquake. Thanks again and safe travels.

[@Nancy-xs9pm]

Thank you for taking us along on this incredible journey. It is nice to see somewhere that some if us will never see for ourselves. As usual, you have the knack to photograph in the most amazing way. Take care of that cold. Will be with you on the next adventure.

[@workhardlivefree3818]

The more You explore, the more I appreciate where I have been born and raised, even though our country of Canada is becoming more oppressed and under a dictatorship

[@pinebearclub]

Awesome to see again! I had the pleasure of visiting Japan in the exact area this video was taken in. So beautiful of the beaten path is, and no akiya at all. The visit to the mighty Fuji was mind blowing, and dinner on its slopes never to be forgotten. Thanks again! Bryan from Vancouver

[@choptupkoi7535]

Awesome trip dude, I've been to Japan four times over the last 20 years and always just bumbled around for 3 weeks in the cities and as much in the country side as we could get. Definitely need to rent a car next trip. Its cool to get to see your perspective cruising around with a friend. Thanks for doing the work so we can sit and watch.

[@zackwindisch1595]

Japan just seems like such a relieving place to be

[@user-qf1it8jc9y]

Thank you once again Dustin for bringing us along with you! Mt. Fuji , so beautiful! In 1979 I was lucky enough to climb to the top and spend the night in a trail lodge then watch the sunrise from the rim of the crater. Such a beautiful country, so much history, and very warm and friendly people. I can't thank you enough for these last few weeks and bringing me back to long lost memories.

[@Destination_Adventure]

That sounds like an amazing experience.

[@user-qf1it8jc9y]

Amazing really only begins to describe it, it's something everyone should try to do if they ever get the chance!@@Destination_Adventure

[@user-iamRobinV68]

Amazing country! Love the little towns. So much to learn. Great explore! 😊😊😊

[@strangogoodbeans5455]

Just had to comment and let you know the work on these does not go underappreciated. the production quality, the subtle history, and most importantly the cinematics!!!!!???? 10/10 video, my friend. I dreamt of making it to japan one day, and this video simply reinforces that tenfold.

[@strangogoodbeans5455]

PS. i cannot WAIT for next episode.

[@Destination_Adventure]

Thank you so much, I really appreciate that.

[@chrisbyard29]

Dustin, I am truly enjoying your winter time adventures in Japan with Amy. Makes me wish I explored more when I was there multiple times in my younger years. Thank you for another great adventure.

[@Kevatron-qk9op]

I still remember how awe struck I was the first time I went from little old Quesnel BC to Tokyo. Blew my mind! This video brings back all those memories!

[@judyfolmsbee5519]

❤ we just love you taking us along! I find it so exciting to learn about different cultures and see actual footage. I may not ever get a chance to go there. So, thank you for taking us along 🥰❣️

[@Destination_Adventure]

Thank you for joining 😊

[@CanadianSledDog]

What a great episode! It's so sad to see the traditional way of life in decline as people urbanize, but it's not just happening in Japan it's just about everywhere! It's a big problem here in Atlantic Canada too.

[@gregoryeastman6804]

Really enjoying this series, I came across your channel back when you were in Mexico and have really enjoyed it since, I think I've watched everything. Japan looks beautiful and I'm jealous.

[@Destination_Adventure]

Thank you 😊

[@janpkelder]

Nice to see something different, but i cant wait for the real adventure season to start again. Have fun in the mean time

[@robcanad]

What real adventure? This stuff is great!

[@DannoM_]

I'm loving this Japan series! Really enjoying seeing the food you are trying. I really love that market you went to. Your reaction to the wasabi was funny. "That's not hot" 😂 Those tea fields were so neat!

[@bigbird2451]

Those big fruits could be pomelos. And I'm sure you saw a lot of yuzu as well. I believe the unknown yellowish fruit tree was yuzu.

[@jamescrownshaw2587]

Beautiful culture and scenery and the immersion into this with your friend is really eye opening. Loving this series, thanks 👍

[@sandralnwebster3204]

Dustin, it seems like you are having the time of your life exploring the Japanese culture with your lovely girlfriend! The fish market was stupendous with all the different fish and tastes! Thanks for a glimpse into this lovely country! Sandy& Andy

[@johnmclaren7059]

So beautiful! Another great video on your adventure! Well done ! Cheers safe journeys👍🇨🇦

[@RobsNeighbor]

Is there a better way than starting your day watching destination Adventure

[@Destination_Adventure]

☕️ 😊

[@landlice48]

I have super curly hair and it takes me 15 minutes every morning to ‘hot-iron’ it out - I always enjoy watching and listening to your channel as I’m doing this - it makes the hair chore seem insignificant and easier!

[@RobsNeighbor]

@@landlice48 it's funny you say that as a 42 year old man I have super curly hair and have embraced it :-) I usually throw some curly gel in it and head out for the day. However I never let it grow more than 3 inches

[@kimee2897]

The eel bones you tried - they're to be had with beer! SO many youtubers in Japan showcase what they say is "disgusting food" in Japan, but they're picking up stuff and eating it by itself when it's strong tasting and meant to go with alcohol. A lot of Asian snacks like this are not meant to be eaten like chips or a chocolate bar, but had in a social setting with drinks too. Glad you're getting out into the Japanese countryside tho! Too often, people just stay in the big cities and miss so much of the landscape and culture of Japan. As always, enjoying all your videos!

[@Jezeppi1]

Beautiful,I was there in 1980 for 90 days Love the people, great experience, Thank you for bring back good memories 👍✅😁🙏😎

[@Spielmanjon]

Amazing! You are braver than I am my friend. I would not have been trying so many things!

[@empressvogt]

My Uncle Sam's mom has the biggest grape fruit and lemons! They're massive except this time around. He always brings us some every time he comes to visit to Maryland.

[@1AloneX2]

love the Vindu! perfect Dustin!🙏

[@Awsom47Merc]

Dustin ! What gives ? No mention of the earthquake at all ?!! We were all worried. You were in Nogoya less then 138mi from the epicenter in Ishikawa. 🤔

[@michaeljohnston406]

I spent a year in Hokkaido on the South east side of the Island near the little town of Uraho Japan back in 1988 and it was a eye opening experience for me. I was in the us military at station at A Loran C radio station that is no longer there! we got to go to the closets big town which Obihiro which was about 45 miles by train once or twice a month. I met a lot of interesting and very nice Japanese people there! I still have a lot of pictures from my year long stay! It was a life changing event for me! See as much of Japan as you can like you said in your video it is a very beautiful place!

[@peterdeheus7386]

Thanks for another fantastic story.

[@KrazyMitchAdventures]

5:11 Thos HUGE fruits are a relative of the Grapefruit called Pomelo, Japan exports almost 30,000 metric ton of Pomelo each year. They're better than pink grapefruit IMO

[@jeanniedevilling8763]

Love your friend! Hope all is well with y'all with the weather and earthquake. Great start to the 2024. Happy New Year 🎉

[@joanneachildoftheking4199]

I lose track of time when watching your videos. Hate to see them end. Thanks for taking me to Japan!

[@cynthiahofer2903]

Thanks for taking us with you. It was something i will never see in person.

[@quarlow1215]

I never would have considered seeing Japan. All ive ever seen of it is those big city's and hustle bustle. But what you have shown makes me realize theres a beautiful side to it. And to have such a beautiful tour guide would just ice the cake. You are very blessed to get to see the world as you have. My big travel experience was going to Red Deer. 😂 aside from my long haul trucking in Western canada which kind of doesn't count.

[@jefflawrentz1624]

What a beautiful country. The food looked wonderful- especially that smoked salmon. I’m looking forward to next weeks adventure!

[@angesvlogs6628]

So gorgeous there 😊❤

[@jessiemekeel5792]

Great video Dustin! What beautiful scenery, tea fields, bamboo forests and last but definitely not least, to hear the bird songs ❤. Hope all is well.

[@gaston6493]

This series is golden!!! Long time fan. Sky is the limit.

[@Komainu959]

04:54 Along with mandarin you're also probably seeing kaki (persimmon) and yuzu which depending on variety can get large like a grapefruit or it could be zabon which is a variety of pomelo.

[@cherylsibson2529]

Dustin, so glad you did this trip, all of the footage you caught was beautiful!

[@pedrobedoy9574]

I am drooling, I've dreamt of mountain Japanese snow covered timber house's 🤣😃

[@johnmccormick175]

What a beautiful country,nice people and awesome food...Great video thanks for sharing Dustin and Amy.

[@user-yw5fz4gw9z]

Thanks for sharing Dustin awesome country fabulous scenery.safe travels.

[@tomquinn5437]

I love Japan and the Japanese people. They are so respectful and honest. Your videos are world class. Thanks for sharing your travels.

[@rhondaburke5700]

Love to see Japan. My guy talks about whathis experience was like, but this helps to picture it. Thank you Dustin!

[@brianmarywapshott2593]

Hey mate, getting to appreciate your new "Adventure" and liking it very much, your filming and detail to what's in it is really great, gimmee more . Cheers

[@marcerivest6204]

Just beautiful, thanks for sharing it with us. I am guessing that you are okay since you posted this video 😊

[@poppadog53]

Excellent video as always. Your Japan trip has been great. I enjoy the camaraderie between you and your guide/friend. I love the respect of Japanese culture. I look forward to the next one 😊

[@s.porter8646]

Note, the best speed to get through the ETC is 48KM any faster and you hit the gate

[@larrymiller2370]

Looked like a lot of fish in the market. Interesting seeing somewhere different. Have fun & safe travels to both of you keep them coming

[@Big_Renfrew]

We're very surprised at the abandoned places all over Japan. We mostly only see cityscapes.

[@dwightwindrum7886]

Most excellent video. I've never been to Japan and maybe one day I'll get there. I love the culture.

[@chanhung6748]

Great work, watched every episode s on the channel. Hope Emi is ok after the Earthquake. You are a very special friend to her. Friend as Emi should be cherished forever. Again, love the channel. Happy new year.

[@kinderliving1]

Great video as usual and it was nice seeing your face after reading about the earthquake. I'm not sure if it was anywhere close to where you are, but my heart goes out to those affected.

[@davidbarnsley8486]

What an amazing trip Dustin ,I would love to see japan and you are doing it with you’re Japanese friend is really probably the best way You see the real Japan 👍👍🇦🇺

[@calldon4688]

Another great video man. You just keep doing it over and over and over. This series is a wonderful look into another world. There's a lot there to appreciate. Thank you.

[@Destination_Adventure]

Thank you very much.

[@esidedude2869]

You lucky sob. Man, y'all have a great time. Have a few for me. 🥂 And what a beautiful tour guide.

[@mavahuth5044]

I was worried for a minute, that you didn't learn to share. I'm glad I was wrong.😂. I'm enjoying your trip.😊

[@morewith]

Hey Dustin, Enjoying your Japan series. I spent 8 years there and hiked Fuji twice! There is no place I would rather be than Japan! Take it all in Bro! 👊👍👍

[@Destination_Adventure]

This is awesome. I stared up at that mountain just wishing I could climb it.

[@user-ph7zx7jz5z]

they don't mind plastic over there. so beautiful thank you for taking us.

[@AXEMAN.ca1]

I think you’re the first person in Japan to wear an Axeman shirt! Thanks for representing 🪓🪓🪓

[@Destination_Adventure]

Quite possible. lol

[@jamesandamysroadtripadvent6104]

Thank you again Dustin. We enjoyed this very much.

[@KillerF0x]

That DIY-RV you showed in the first few minutes, I have that exact truck imported to Canada (minus the RV part) and is my daily driver. I absolutely love it.

[@Destination_Adventure]

I love those trucks, always wanted one.

[@sullytime3833]

I haven’t seen Japanese shoreline since I was in the Seabeas back in the mid nineties Thank you for sharing this and bringing me back to some great memories ❤

[@SN-qu2gz]

This is really cool. !

[@JOHNEVANS-wi4md]

Hey man your doing a wonderful job, show`ing off japan`s beauty especially the country side, just great, i really injoy it! .

[@isabelmendi3973]

Very beautiful and interesting to learn about this culture.

[@chunkylover53ataol]

Great vid as always, super excited for the mountain next! Thank you Dustin for taking us along.

[@davidhockett4713]

Yep, outta the park! Thanks

[@spikescott6011]

Dustin. Your videos are excellent. Thank you for taking the time to make them. They are wonderful

[@Destination_Adventure]

Thank you very much.

[@kowalabearful]

First..... great job love the Japan content

[@geoffthiessen646]

Thanks Dustin sure am enjoying the Japan Trip

[@jasonflt]

so very cool. looking forward to next weekends video for sure! thanks to the both of you!

[@beachtimehawaiibth7222]

So nice you bought her the eel snacks 😂😂😂

[@erin9740]

The sound design is amazing 😍 Also this video made me really want japanese food

[@TheFallenSpark]

Amazing job mang. What a beautiful video. Absolutely amazing culture. Thanks for the vid. Let me know when your back up North. 😀

[@coreytelford3051]

Love these types of videos, please do more! Very enjoyable!

[@lingling5278]

Bamboo forest is much beautiful in the summer just be careful with Snake's 🐍 Japan have soo many abandoned houses mostly in the country side, some of those houses still have furnitures, some of those houses are like time capsule from the 90s 80s .