As we farewell this year's cherry blossoms, it's time to welcome summer, our favourite time of the year to enjoy Japan's beautiful outdoors. According to Japan's best hot spring town, Visit Kinosaki, summer is prime season for open-air experiences and the perfect time to indulge in outdoor fun in the hot spring town itself and check out some of the amazing day trips to its surrounds.

“The Kinosaki area is one of the most naturally diverse of Japan and an absolute must for travellers visiting Japan in summer” said Alison Roberts-Brown, former long-term Japan resident and Director of Tourism Garden, representative of  Visit Kinosaki in Australia.

“From strolling Kinosaki Onsen's charming streets dressed in a traditional yukata to visiting ancient castle towns or sea kayaking in some of Japan's clearest waters, the options to explore the Kinosaki area are endless” she added.

Visit Kinosaki recommends travellers to stay in Kinosaki Onsen overnight to take advantage of its many cultural drawcards including its traditional ryokans, kaiseki dinner (traditional multi-course dinner), temples, shrines and onsens, then venture out on a day trip to explore the area's splendid nature.

According to Visit Kinosaki, the best day (or half-day) trips to take from Kinosaki-Onsen are:

• Sea Kayaking in Takeno: Takeno Beach is one of Japan's top 100 beaches with white sand and crystal waters. Paddle out into the Sea of Japan by Sea Kayak and take in the coastline in the most spectacular way.
• Ancient Castles in Izushi: Visit the ancient castle town of Izushi and be taken back to the days of old Japan. Be sure to check out some of the many local special products such as "Izushi Sara Soba", "Izushi Yaki (pottery)" and "Kiryusaiku".
• Visit Farming Communities in Tanto: Connect with rural communities in this long established agricultural town nestled away in a mountain valley in northern rural Hyogo. The perfect opportunity to get an insight into the 'real' Japan connecting with communities and being introduced to their way of life.
• Explore Caves in Genbudo: Genbudo Cave Park consists of five caves that were formed 1.6 million years ago when the lava from a volcanic explosion cooled forming spectacular columnar joints.
• Hiking in the Kannabe Highlands: Take a hike in the beautiful surroundings of Kannabe Highlands, where you can see waterfalls and craters among other natural sights. Whilst the Highlands can be visited all year-round, it is particularly charming in summer when visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and mountain climbing.

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Tourism Garden is the official marketing and public relations representative for Kinosaki Onsen & Toyooka City in Australia.