Japan is the world’s fastest growing travel destination, accommodating a record 28.7 million visitors last year. That's a 334% increase in tourism since 2010, making this East Asian destination the 12th most visited country in the world. And if you wonder how warmly the locals accept queer travelers, consider there are more than 300 LGBTQ bars in the Shinjuku neighborhood alone.

So when it comes time to take a break from Tokyo's high-rises, head to any of these peaceful, overnight destinations:

Mt. Fuji

This iconic mountain town is about 2.5 hours from Tokyo, and it is well worth the somewhat arduous train journey. Here you can live out all your glamping fantasies at the stylish Hoshinoya Fuji, tucked into the forest with unparalleled views of Mt. Fuji. A two-day stay in one of their minimalist concrete cabins would be optimal to ensure a cloud-free view of the iconic volcano across Lake Kawaguchi, affording you enough time to roast s’mores by the fire, take a food-smoking workshop in the forest, or an early morning kayak in front of Mt. Fuji.

Hakone

Another popular Mt. Fuji destination an hour and a half from Tokyo by bullet train. Hakone is famous for its natural onsens (a Japanese hot spring) and seasonal beauty. Stay at ryokan Yama No Chaya, a rustic Hakone institution for more than 50 years. Come here in autumn or spring to see the leaves change and blossoms bloom near Lake Ashinoko. Take the Hakone Ropeway to the top for epic views of snow-capped Mt. Fuji. Hakone Shrine (above), a red gate Shinto shrine situated on the shore of Lake Ashinoko, is another must-see attraction for those visiting the area.

Nikko

A two-hour train ride on the Tobu Railway will get you to this quiet forest area in Tochigi Prefecture. Here you can check into the Kanaya, Japan’s longest-running Western-style hotel, where Einstein and Helen Keller overnighted. For lodging that's a bit more Japanese-style—tatami mats and all—book a room at Hoshinoyado Ryokan Nikko Tochigi. Aside from a relaxing bath in the onsen, tourists can pose for a picture on the famous Shinkyo Bridge (above) and the impressively ornate World Heritage Toshogu Shrine. Afterward, try a soba noodle-making class or visit the lakeside British Embassy Villa Memorial Park for tea and cake.

Karuizawa

This mountainside resort is a favorite overnight destination for Tokyoites who seek to escape the summer heat. Hoshinoya Karuizawa is a luxurious onsen resort with an emphasis on connecting with nature. Soak in one of two onsens, try a sake massage, and take a nature walk with Picchio eco-tours through the forest to spot local flying squirrels. The multi-course mountain kaiseki meal here is well worth the price to try prized Japanese beef and beautiful platings.

Ito

A 100-minute train ride down the coast is Ito, a lesser-known hot spring resort town waiting to be discovered. Stay at the Traditional Ryokan Hostel K's House Ito Onsen, a 100-year-old historic onsen converted into budget-friendly accommodation since 2010. The middle of Ito has several historic wooden buildings including Tokaikan, a former ryokan built in 1928 and open to the public. During your stay, take a walk along the rugged coastline across a suspension bridge to a picturesque lighthouse. End the night at a mom-and-pop izakaya joint (Japanese pub) with a few meat skewers and a bottle of sake.