As 2018 comes to an end, The Japan Times' Escape section looks forward to next year and the opportunities for travel around the country in 2019.

The year is an important one for Japan: It sees the Rugby World Cup arrive on its shores, the first time the tournament will be held in Asia. Beyond that, the country is gearing up for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and the accompanying tourist boom. Still, there are plenty of places well off the beaten track to explore, and some firm favorites that should be visited no matter how many others are already there. Read on for some of The Japan Times' recommendations for where to go in the new year.

Well-restored: Kanazawa Castle is one of the main attractions of the city of Kanazawa, a perfect weekend getaway from Tokyo.
Well-restored: Kanazawa Castle is one of the main attractions of the city of Kanazawa, a perfect weekend getaway from Tokyo. | GETTY IMAGES