Destinations
Explore Tokyo, Kyoto and the wonders in between
Explore Tokyo, Kyoto and the wonders in between
Japan's sprawling capital is a city of breathtaking contrasts. Futuristic architecture towers above centuries-old temples, Michelin-starred restaurants occupy the same street as hole-in-the-wall ramen shops, and ultra-modern fashion districts border serene traditional gardens.
One of the world's busiest pedestrian intersections and an iconic symbol of modern Tokyo. Best experienced from the Starbucks or Mag's Park observation deck above.
Tokyo's oldest and most significant Buddhist temple, located in Asakusa. The approach through Nakamise shopping street is lined with traditional crafts and snacks.
At 634 metres, Tokyo Skytree is the world's tallest tower. On clear days, the observation decks offer views all the way to Mount Fuji, 100km away.
A magnificent national garden combining French formal, English landscape and traditional Japanese garden styles. One of Tokyo's best cherry blossom viewing spots each spring.
The outer market remains open to visitors and is one of Tokyo's best street food experiences. Sample fresh sushi, tamago-yaki omelettes and other Japanese delicacies.
Tokyo's famous "Electric Town" is the global hub of anime, manga, gaming and electronics culture. Multi-storey arcades, maid cafés and tech shops line every street.
Japan's former imperial capital for over a millennium, Kyoto is considered the cultural heart of the country. With over 1,600 Buddhist temples, 400 Shinto shrines and 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, it represents the Japan many travellers dream of encountering.
Famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates winding up the forested Mount Inari. One of Japan's most photographed locations – visit at dawn to avoid crowds.
Kyoto's most iconic sight – a Zen Buddhist temple whose top two floors are covered in gold leaf, reflecting majestically in the Mirror Pond surrounding it.
Kyoto's famous geisha district features preserved machiya merchant houses, atmospheric stone-paved streets, and the chance to spot a geiko (geisha) heading to an engagement.
Located on the outskirts of Kyoto, Arashiyama is a scenic district offering a peaceful escape from the city. The combination of bamboo groves, riverside temples and mountain views makes it one of Japan's most beautiful natural destinations.
One of the most atmospheric walks in Japan – a narrow path lined with towering bamboo stalks that sway and rustle gently in the breeze. A truly unforgettable sensory experience, especially in the early morning.
A UNESCO World Heritage Zen temple with one of Japan's finest traditional gardens. The strolling garden was designed to incorporate the Arashiyama mountains as a borrowed landscape backdrop.