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.
Japan’s ‘cultural capital’, Kyoto, is located on Honshu Island within the Kansai region. Filled with awe-inspiring shrines, temples, and Zen gardens, as well as a host of extraordinary modern attractions and numerous things to do, the city offers a plethora of experiences. First stops include the other-worldly Fushimi Inari-Taisha Shinto shrine; Kiyomizu-Dera, offering a ‘love providing’ ceremony and jaw-dropping views, and Buddhist Tōfuku-Ji, famous for its glorious garden. It is also entirely possible to visit Kyoto for the sake of food alone; hubs like Nishiki Market provide a dizzying array of culinary adventures. 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. Exquisite hikes and natural hot springs await just outside the city.
Hiroshima has a deep historical significance – it was the first city ever to suffer an atomic blast, which wreaked devastation across the urban hub on 6 August 1945. The only remaining building in the area was the Genbaku Dome, which is now known as the 'City of Peace' and has become a worldwide symbol of hope for everlasting peace. Hiroshima-jo is a replica of the original castle where Japanese elders came together for centuries to discuss strategies and politics. Today Hiroshima is a thriving tourist destination with an interesting food scene and a very vibrant nightlife. Cultural experiences include the Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art and the Mazda Museum.
Kumamoto, the capital of the prefecture of the same name, lies on the western coast of Kyushu Island. The city is best known for its striking ancient architecture, including Kumamoto Castle, crafted from wood and stone, and the Hosokawa Residence, once home to the region’s most powerful Samurai warriors. Once you’ve seen these key sites, head to Lake Ezu for a lazy day at the waterside, or take a wander through the beautiful Suizenji Garden - one of Japan’s most highly acclaimed traditional gardens, dating to 1636. Thrillseekers can visit Mount Aso, one of the world’s largest active volcanoes, accessible via a cable car. If you’re a foodie, make sure to try the famous Kumamoto Ramen, a tasty noodle broth with pork, fried garlic, and garlic oil (known as marr oil).
An evocative mix of ancient and modern, Fukuoka is located on Kyushu Island’s northern coast and forms the capital of the Fukuoka Prefecture, as well as Japan’s sixth-largest city. Visit centuries-old temples; indulge in retail therapy at the ultra-modern Canal City Hakata (mall); take in an exhibition at the Fukuoka Art Museum, housed in the tranquil grounds of Ohori Park; or savour the city’s famous tonkotsu ramen – a thick, creamy Japanese noodle soup – at any of its many street markets. Other highlights include the Momochi Seaside Park, the Fukuoka Castle Ruins, and the Shofukuji Temple, Japan’s first Zen temple. Popular activities on offer include hiking, golfing, swimming, river cruises, coastal cycling routes, and some fascinating cultural tours.
