Lesser-visited areas you recommend to first-time travelers?

What were your favorite little spots that weren't horribly touristy that you hope other people get to see? A couple of mine are:

• Shimokitazawa - cute shopping district not far from Tokyo
• Miyajima Island - beautiful island with tame deer, easy mountain hikes, and lovely temples, off the coast of Hiroshima via ferry
• Kamakura - former capital of Japan with lots of temples, a historic electric railway that still runs antique passenger cars, and surfing at the beach. 1.5 hours south of Tokyo.