As part of my 4 day trip to Kyoto this August I want to rent a car with my girlfriend and head out for the day away from busy cities and tourist attractions to some less seen, more beautiful areas. I am really looking to see some beautiful mountains, and some stunning coastal areas. If possible I would like to climb a small mountain, see some waterfalls, fishing villages etc and maybe end the day at a small, interesting town/city.

I have absolutely no clue where to find these things and seeing as I am looking to get off the beaten track and away from touristy sites there isn't much information to help me. I don't know whether to head N. S. E. or W. so I was just wondering if some helpful FTer's who know their way around Japan could give me some suggestions?

Thanks