-
Tokyo, Japan
Start in Tokyo to get your bearings — explore Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Asakusa's Senso-ji Temple. Don't miss ramen in the backstreets of Shimokitazawa or sushi at Tsukiji Outer Market. The city's efficient metro makes getting around easy.
-
Nikko, Japan
A easy day-trip or overnight from Tokyo, Nikko is home to the ornate Tosho-gu Shrine set among cedar forests. The surrounding national park offers stunning waterfalls and mountain scenery. Try yuba (tofu skin) dishes, a local specialty.
-
Hakone, Japan
Hakone offers iconic views of Mount Fuji across Lake Ashi on clear days. Ride the scenic Romancecar train from Shinjuku and explore the open-air sculpture museum. Relax in an onsen ryokan for an authentic Japanese hot spring experience.
-
Kyoto, Japan
Japan's cultural capital is packed with temples, geisha districts, and bamboo groves — Fushimi Inari and Arashiyama are unmissable. Wander the preserved streets of Gion in the evening for a chance to spot a geiko. Kyoto cuisine features kaiseki multi-course dining and delicate matcha sweets.
-
Nara, Japan
A short train ride from Kyoto, Nara is famous for its free-roaming deer in Nara Park and the giant Buddha inside Todai-ji Temple. The charming Naramachi neighborhood has preserved merchant townhouses to explore. Pick up some traditional rice crackers to feed the friendly deer.
-
Osaka, Japan
Osaka is Japan's food capital — indulge in takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and endless street food in Dotonbori. Explore the lively Shinsekai district and visit the impressive Osaka Castle. The city has a famously fun and loud nightlife scene centered around Namba.
-
Hiroshima, Japan
Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park and Museum offer a deeply moving and important historical experience. The city itself is vibrant and modern, with great food including the layered Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki. Take a short ferry to nearby Miyajima Island to see the iconic floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine.