Japan’s allure is as powerful as ever. Nomads longing for authenticity in their travels will find an array of possibilities to help gain a deeper appreciation for this island nation by heading beyond Tokyo and Kyoto to experience the prefectures of Gifu, Kagawa and Ishikawa. Nature lovers immerse themselves in natural beauty at Hida Osaka Falls in Gero, where more than 200 cascading waterfalls are the backdrop to 14 separate hiking trails. In autumn, the falls and surrounding area erupt into vibrant colors. Remember, if you plan to hike, a certified guide is required for many of the trails.

Later, soothe your hiking muscles and your mind with a soak at Gero Hot Spring. Regarded as one of the three most important hot springs in the country, Gero’s alkaline-based waters are said to leave skin particularly velvety and smooth. Throughout the town of Gero, foot baths with the spring water are scattered throughout the area, and guests at the hot spring are encouraged to don traditional robes to explore the town on foot, pausing at the various foot baths for soaking and contemplation.

Close by, Gero Hot Spring Gassho Village offers a number of traditional crafts and activities, from ceramic painting and constructing handmade Japanese paper to settling in to watch a “shadow play.” The clear mountain waters issuing from Mt. Hakusan are part of the family secret used to create the blends at Fukumitsuya Sake Brewery in Kanazawa. The fermented rice solution used to create the brewery’s world-renowned sakes is the same proprietary concoction the company uses to produce three separate lines of FRS-based cosmetics.

Finally, keep your nature-culture vibe humming at full throttle by choosing a stay at Benesse House Museum. Designed by Tadao Ando and built to overlook the Seto Inland Sea, this property was created to blur the lines between nature, art and architecture. At Ikumo Lodge atop Mt. Engyo, views take in the Japan Sea and Noto Peninsula. Guests stay in eco-friendly luxury rooms, enjoying their own open-air bath experience, traditional Japanese tea ceremony, healthy meals prepared with seasonal ingredients and visits to a nearby temple to de-stress with sutra chanting and prayer sessions.