Japan conjures images of big bustling metropolises, towering neon skyscrapers and labyrinthine alleys hiding culinary gems. But while Japan’s iconic cities capture the hearts and minds of most travellers (and for good reason) around 70% of the country’s land mass remains uninhabited. The archipelago of Japan encompasses a diverse range of climates, from the subtropical southern islands to the icy north. With more than 90,000 species, a high proportion of which are endemic, its expansive wild landscapes are a haven for biodiversity. Journey off the beaten path to its lesser explored corners – from the epic wilderness of Hokkaido to the winding ancient pilgrimage trails of the Kii Peninsula and the mangrove forests of Okinawa, Japan provides endless opportunities for immersion in wild nature.