Japan: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Fukuoka - Modern & Traditional

About the destination: Tokyo is the capital of Japan and one of the largest urban areas in the world. Tokyo serves as Japan's financial hub and is a fusion of cutting-edge technology and tradition. Tokyo is vast and a well-structured modern city. The cityscape of Tokyo is composed of temples and shrines, serene nature reserves, historical structures, futuristic architecture, and neon lights. The heart of the city encompasses Chiyoda and Chuo. This region boasts the magnificent Imperial Palace, the national government buildings, the renowned shopping district of Ginza, Tsukiji fish market, Akihabara electronics market, and the historic Tokyo Station. The peaceful neighborhood of Asakusa offers must-see attractions like the Sensoji Temple, the Nakamise-dōri shopping arcade, and the Golden Poo. Close by is the Ueno area, which includes the Ameyoko market. It's an ideal place to shop for traditional gifts and visit a significant Buddhist temple. Another key attraction of the city is the Meiji Shrine, situated in Shibuya. Tokyo is a distinctive city that offers something for everyone, bustling shopping districts, famous nightlife, historical landmarks, tranquil parks, and stunning scenery.

About the destination: Kyoto, for over a thousand years, served as the capital of Japan and is likely the best-preserved city in the country. It is a beautiful, vibrant city where modern life intersects with traditional Japan. Nestled among the mountains of Western Honshu, Kyoto is an ideal base for exploring the Kansai region. The city is rich in heritage sites and culture, offering a wide variety of restaurants and is relatively easy to navigate. The city's rich culture and heritage are evident in its architecture and customs. Kyoto is home to thousands of temples and shrines, including the stunning golden Kinkaku-ji, Ryoanji with its Zen garden, the popular Kiyomizu-dera, Sanjusangendo with its life-size statues of Kannon, and the more serene Tenryu-ji in Arashiyama. Also located in Arashiyama is the famous Bamboo Grove. A delightful activity in Kyoto is a walking tour of Gion, one of the main Geisha districts, where wooden buildings and lanterns create the perfect ambiance. Kyoto is one of the world's greatest historical cities, filled with temples, shrines, teahouses, and imperial residences. Steeped in culture and heritage, Kyoto is a must-visit for anyone interested in Japanese history and culture.

About the destination: Osaka is a large, contemporary city in Japan. It serves as the primary metropolis of the Kansai region and is the biggest among the Osaka-Kobe-Kyoto trio. It's a vibrant and thrilling location that radiates a unique allure. Its history is abundant, its landscapes are stunning, and it's conveniently situated near the significant cultural hubs of Kyoto and Nara, and just a few hours away from Tokyo by bullet train. Osaka has two main city centers, Kita, on the north side, and Minami, on the south side. Kita is a vast shopping and business district, while Minami is renowned as Osaka's premier entertainment district. The city's major attractions include the magnificent, beautifully restored castle and the truly amazing aquarium. Osaka boasts some remarkable modern architecture, a lively nightlife, and delicious local food. To experience the city’s nightlife, head to the bustling Dōtonbori, a street filled with restaurants and bars. There are also some stunning places to visit just outside the city. Minoo is a suburb of Osaka that offers lovely woodlands, a spectacular waterfall, hiking trails, and a tranquil spa. Osaka merges historical, cultural, and artistic attractions with all the pleasures of a modern Japanese metropolis. As Japan's third-largest city, it provides an exhilarating ambiance, with excellent connections to some of the most historic cities in Japan.

About the destination: Fukuoka is the capital of Fukuoka Prefecture and the largest city on the island of Kyushu, as well as one of Japan's ten most populated cities. Fukuoka is considered the best city in Asia to live in. Some of the important tourist attractions in Fukuoka include the Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival, which is one of the most fascinating festivals in Japan; the Shofukuji Temple; Canal City; and the Yatai (food stalls).