Japan

Harajuku: Where Fashion Meets Fantasy

Harajuku in Tokyo is a vibrant hub for fashion lovers and colorful youth. Known for its iconic street style, it has inspired designers worldwide. The area is packed with trendy shops, street food stalls, lively cafés, and luxury boutiques, all just steps from the famous Harajuku Girls scene.

Fushimi Inari Shrine

One of Kyoto’s most iconic sites, Fushimi Inari is a Shinto shrine famous for its seemingly endless path of bright red torii gates. The gates stretch from the main hall up Mount Inari, which rises 764 feet (233 meters), forming rows that twist, intersect, and climb through a sacred forest. It is the most important of thousands of shrines dedicated to Inari, the deity of fertility and agricultural prosperity.

Shibuya Crossing

Shibuya Crossing is a sight you’ll never forget - an organized chaos of hundreds crossing from all directions at once in what may be the busiest intersection you’ll ever see. And yet, no pushing, no collisions - just Tokyo in motion. The area is filled with fashion stores, cafés, restaurants, and attractions. For a full view, head to Shibuya Sky, an observation deck offering a stunning 360° view of the city and the iconic crossing below.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

A walk through the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a truly special experience. Paths wind through towering bamboo that reaches up to 66 feet (20 meters), with sunlight filtering in dramatically at midday. On breezy days, the sound of swaying bamboo adds a magical touch. In the evening, colorful lights illuminate the paths, creating a warm and serene atmosphere. Due to crowds, visiting early in the morning is highly recommended.

Naoshima – The Art Island

Nicknamed “The Art Island,” Naoshima is known for its modern art museums, striking architecture, and outdoor installations and sculptures. Beyond the art, the island offers scenic countryside, rice fields, golden beaches, and sunny weather - blending a rural Japanese feel with a vacation vibe. It’s a must for art lovers, but also a perfect place to unwind after Japan’s bustling cities, especially at the iconic Benesse House, a unique art hotel located right on the island.

Hakone

Nestled at the foot of Mount Fuji, Hakone is a charming mountain town known for its volcanic landscapes, natural hot springs, and wellness retreats. On clear days, enjoy breathtaking views of Japan’s iconic Mount Fuji, towering at 12,388 ft (3,776 m). Explore the open-air sculpture museum, take a scenic ropeway to the volcanic valley, or cruise across the serene lake. End your day with a traditional onsen soak - an unforgettable part of the Hakone experience.

Kinkaku-ji

The Golden Pavilion - located in northern Kyoto, Kinkaku-ji - also known as the Golden Pavilion - is one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks. This elegant Zen temple, built in 1397 by Shogun Yoshimitsu, features upper floors covered in gold leaf. Set beside a tranquil pond and surrounded by a traditional garden, it offers a picture-perfect glimpse into classical Japanese architecture.

Sushi Making Class

More than just a class - this is a full authentic experience! Join a small group and learn to make sashimi and sushi from scratch, with tips for easy at-home preparation so you can impress friends and family. You'll work with top-quality fresh ingredients and gain insight into local history from the experienced English-speaking staff.

Shirakawa-go

The alpine village of Shirakawa-go is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its unique gassho-style houses - massive thatched roofs shaped like hands in prayer, designed to withstand heavy winter snow. These steep roofs also allow storage of crops and tools during the cold season. Stroll through narrow paths and gardens, enjoy scenic views, browse local shops, and treat yourself to a refreshing green matcha ice cream.

Osaka Castle

This iconic white castle with green roofs rises 558 feet (170 meters) in the heart of Osaka. Surrounded by a spacious park with 600 cherry trees - especially stunning in bloom - and a backdrop of skyscrapers, it offers a striking blend of old and new. Step inside the air-conditioned interior to explore a beautifully restored stone-built museum. Don’t miss the panoramic view from the 8th floor - it feels like stepping into a samurai film, right in the middle of a modern cityscape.