Japan - Tokyo

Buddhist shrine street side in Japsn.

The heart of Tokyo is a vast metropolis that sits on Tokyo Bay, but even in this built-up city center-the biggest urban area in the world- the districts each have their own character and atmosphere. Step into old Tokyo with a stroll through the grounds of the Imperial Palace, the home of the emperor and his family, or head of the district of Asakusa where you will find temples and shrines that host traditional festivals throughout the year.

Tokyo, Japan

Enjoying new foods and new friends.

See Tokyo at its most chic and modern among the sleek, high rises of Aoyama, or head to Ginza for luxury shops and Michelin starred restaurants.

But the fun does not stop in central Tokyo. The city suburbs have cutting-edge scenes of their own, such as the high-tech entertainment on the man-made island of Odalba, as well as cultural history in places like the sumo district of Ryogoku.

There is more to discover farther as Tokyo’s excellent public transportation makes day trips easy.

Whether you are seeking out ancient temples in Nikko, the cosmopolitan flair of Yokohama or the natural beauty of Mount Fiji, you will find all kinds of rewards waiting outside Tokyo. All the places worth exploring are just a short train ride away.

Kyoto, Japan

Temple of the Golden Pavilion.

Escaping beyond Tokyo city may be appealing after a while, and you can take your pick from a salty sea breeze, clear mountain air, or sulfurous tang of hot springs. If you want to explore Japanese history, the sumptuous shrines of Nikko and Kamakura will temp you away from Tokyo while hikers can tackle Mount Fiji and the lake-dotted landscape around it or walk in the mountains of Hakone before soaking in its famous hot springs. Or, if you are just after some good family fun or popular date spot, head to the vibrant portside attractions of Yohohama.