Tokyo
Tokyo – the world's largest metropolis – is home to over 38 million people, including nearby Yokohama. It's massive, colorful, and always on the move. Each neighborhood has its own unique vibe, with stunning parks, shrines, temples, museums, and endless sights to explore. Shopping here is a mix of the ultra-cool and the wonderfully weird. And if you love food? Welcome to heaven. With over 80,000 restaurants, you could eat at a different spot every night for the next 220 years. Tokyo also holds the record for the most Michelin-starred restaurants on the planet. Tokyo had so much to offer – sadly, I caught a bug and missed out on quite a few things.
Kanazawa
Kanazawa, just 2.5 hours from Tokyo by train, is often called “Little Kyoto” for its beautifully preserved historic districts. Unlike many cities, it remained untouched during WWII, making its old town a true architectural gem. The city is home to three traditional teahouse areas: Higashi Chaya, Kazue Machi, and Nishi Chaya. Each offers narrow streets, wooden facades, cozy cafés, and the chance to spot a real geisha. Kanazawa is a peaceful, cultural highlight and an absolute must on any Japan trip.
Kyoto
Just 2.5 hours from Kanazawa, Kyoto is Japan’s former imperial capital with 1.4 million residents. The city is famed for its temples, shrines, wooden houses, palaces, gardens, and geishas — it’s where tradition truly comes alive. A must-see on any Japan itinerary, Kyoto offers endless cultural treasures. The Gion district, full of historic teahouses and charm, is home to around 2,000 professional geishas who master music, dance, conversation, and tea ceremonies. With a bit of luck, you might even spot one walking through the narrow streets.
Nara
Just an hour from Kyoto, Nara is home to 368,000 people and was Japan’s capital in the 8th century. Many of its impressive temples date back to that era, giving the city a deep historical charm. Nara is known for its rich cultural heritage, including ancient shrines, massive Buddha statues, and peaceful parks. It’s a great day trip for those wanting to explore Japan’s spiritual roots. Don’t miss the friendly deer roaming freely around Nara Park!
Osaka
About 1.5 hours from Nara, Osaka is Japan’s third-largest city with 2.6 million people and a major port hub. The city blends history and energy — visit temples, shrines, and the iconic Osaka Castle. At night, the neon lights switch on, giant signs flash, and the streets come alive with endless food stalls and buzzing nightlife. Don’t miss the vibrant districts of Dotonbori, Amerikamura, and Shinsekai. Osaka is loud, bold, delicious — and totally crazy (in the best way).
Kobe
Just an hour from Osaka, Kobe lies on the bay surrounded by mountains and is home to 1.4 million people. The city is world-famous for its premium Kobe beef — the most marbled and most expensive beef in the world. Tasting it is a must! A top pick: Steak Aoyama – a cozy, family-run spot with set menus around €75. Don’t be late though — reservations are strict, but totally worth it!
Hiroshima & Miyajima
Once devastated by an atomic bomb in WWII, Hiroshima is now a modern city with a powerful message of peace. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, opened in 1955, tells moving stories of the bombing’s impact and aftermath — deeply emotional and informative. Just southwest lies Miyajima Island, home to the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its “floating” torii gate. Built over the water, the shrine appears to hover during high tide. The island itself is stunning, with wild deer, monkeys, and serene forest trails — easily reachable by a short JR-pass ferry ride.
Himeji
Located about 75 km from Osaka, Himeji is a charming city with around 500,000 residents. It’s compact and easy to explore on foot or by rental bike. The city is best known for its iconic white Himeji Castle — one of Japan’s most beautiful and best-preserved castles. A peaceful stop full of history and elegance.
