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Tokyo, Japan
Start your journey in the buzzing capital — explore Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Asakusa's Senso-ji Temple. Don't miss a bowl of ramen in a tiny local shop and a day trip to Akihabara. Pick up your JR Pass here before heading onward.
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Nikko, Japan
A stunning mountain town north of Tokyo famous for the ornate Tosho-gu Shrine nestled among ancient cedar forests. Wander the Shinkyo sacred bridge and enjoy yuba (tofu skin) cuisine, a local specialty. A perfect first taste of rural Japan.
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Matsumoto, Japan
Home to one of Japan's finest original castles, the striking black Matsumoto Castle reflected in its moat. The Japanese Alps provide a dramatic backdrop and great hiking nearby. Stroll Nakamachi Street for sake breweries and traditional kura storehouses.
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Kanazawa, Japan
Often called 'Little Kyoto,' Kanazawa boasts beautifully preserved geisha districts and samurai neighbourhoods. Kenroku-en garden is considered one of Japan's top three landscape gardens. The Omicho Market is the best place to try fresh seafood and local wagashi sweets.
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Shirakawa-go, Japan
This UNESCO-listed village in a mountain valley is famous for its gassho-zukuri farmhouses with steep thatched roofs designed to withstand heavy snow. Stay overnight in a traditional minshuku (family inn) for a deeply authentic rural experience. The surrounding rice paddies and forested hills are breathtaking.
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Kyoto, Japan
Japan's cultural heart with over 1,600 temples, including Fushimi Inari's iconic torii gate tunnels and the golden Kinkaku-ji. Spend a morning in the Arashiyama bamboo grove and an evening wandering the lantern-lit lanes of Gion. Try kaiseki multi-course dining for the full Kyoto culinary experience.
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Nara, Japan
An easy day trip or stopover from Kyoto, Nara is beloved for its freely roaming sacred deer in Nara Park. The enormous Todai-ji Temple houses Japan's largest bronze Buddha statue. Pick up some traditional senbei crackers to feed the famously cheeky deer.
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Osaka, Japan
Japan's food capital — Osaka lives by the motto 'kuidaore' (eat until you drop). Explore Dotonbori for takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu before visiting the imposing Osaka Castle. The lively Shinsekai district offers a retro atmosphere and great street food.
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Hiroshima, Japan
A powerful and moving destination centred around the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, a must-visit for every traveller. The city itself has rebuilt into a vibrant, welcoming place with great oysters and local okonomiyaki. Take the short ferry to Miyajima Island to see the famous floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine.