Tokyo is a massive, wealthy, and fascinating metropolis, including a mainland located northwest of Tokyo Bay and two beautiful and subtropical archipelagos, the Izu and Ogasawara Islands. It encompasses rugged natural scenery, high-tech visions of the future, and glimpses of traditional life. The various districts of this phenomenal city vary wildly in character, from the electronic blare of Akihabara to the magnificent Imperial gardens and shrines of Chiyoda; from the lively youth mecca of Shibuya to the splendid pottery shops and temple markets of Asakusa. If you don't like what you see, hop on the train and head to the next station, and you will find something entirely different. The city truly has a little bit of everything for everyone.
Situated in western Japan, Hiroshima is known for its historic landmarks, museums, local cuisine and access to the Seto Inland Sea. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the Atomic Bomb Dome commemorate the victims of the atomic bombing and are central attractions in the city. Hiroshima Castle, rebuilt in 1958, offers an insight into the city’s feudal history, while the Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art displays modern and contemporary works. The Mazda Museum provides a look at the history, production and technology of the Japanese automotive manufacturer. Hiroshima is also renowned for Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, a savoury layered pancake made with cabbage, noodles and other ingredients. The city provides a base for exploring nearby Miyajima, known for Itsukushima Shrine and its famous torii gate, as well as the islands and coastal scenery of the Seto Inland Sea.
Located on Honshu Island in Japan’s Kansai region, Kyoto, the nation’s cultural heart, is renowned for its magnificent temples, tranquil Zen gardens, and historic shrines. Rich in tradition yet alive with modern energy, the city offers an extraordinary blend of ancient beauty and contemporary experiences. Not-to-be-missed highlights include the other-worldly Fushimi Inari-Taisha Shinto shrine; Kiyomizu-Dera, offering a ‘love providing’ ceremony as well as jaw-dropping views, and Buddhist Tōfuku-Ji, famous for its glorious garden. Kyoto is renowned for its food, with places like Nishiki Market offering a wide variety of culinary delights. Culture enthusiasts can attend a traditional tea ceremony; soak up the striking displays at the Kyoto International Manga Museum; or head to Gion, the vibrant downtown district, to visit artisan studios or watch a Kabuki show. Just beyond the city, scenic hikes and restorative hot springs provide the perfect way to connect with nature.
Osaka is a lively metropolis in western Japan, renowned for its energetic atmosphere, rich food culture and distinctive blend of traditional and modern city life. At its heart, Osaka Castle offers a glimpse into the city's past, while the neon-lit streets of Dotonbori and Namba are famed for dining, shopping and nightlife. Osaka's character is particularly evident in its bustling streets, where tiny izakayas and food stalls sit alongside vast shopping complexes and illuminated entertainment districts. Travellers can sample local specialities including takoyaki and okonomiyaki, explore Shinsaibashi's shopping arcades, admire panoramic views from the Umeda Sky Building, or discover the nostalgic streets of Shinsekai beneath Tsutenkaku Tower. With excellent transport links and easy access to Kyoto and Nara, Osaka is also a convenient base for exploring the wider Kansai region.
