Hello, I am hoping some of the Japan experts here can help me.
Here's a little background: I have been in Japan for the last three weeks and will be here another 2 and a half weeks. I currently have my JR Rail pass and will have it until December 5th. I wasn't able to do too much the first few weeks I was here, but in the last week or so, I visited Mt. Fuji and the surrounding area, which was absolutely spectacular! And also took a trip to Nara which was also very, very nice. I am living in Tokyo and have visited a lot of the shrines and neighborhoods, so I've really had my fill of the city.
Above all else, I really enjoy nature scenes, hiking, mountains, etc. While I still have my pass, I would like to visit each of the major areas of Japan (Hokkaido, Kyushu, etc.) and am wondering what are the most absolutely amazing spots to visit as far as nature scenes, hiking, etc?
I was thinking I would like to make a trip out to Hakodate in Hokkaido, but is it covered in snow right now? I'm not really into major cities, so I would like to avoid Sapporo if possible. Would Hakodate be a better choice seeing that it is smaller and more to the south (less snowy, more hospitable)? I don't mind a little snow, but not so much that it would be impossible to hike or walk around. Which national parks in the Hokkaido region are accessible right now (if any)?
As for other parts of Japan, which are the most beautiful and scenic? I know that the list could go on and on, but I'd like to know what people here think are the absolute best, most worthwhile spots, especially for this time of year. Would love to visit northern Honshu, Shikoku, Kyushu (heard Beppu is a must see).
Any advice or suggestions would be very, very highly appreciated!
Connie