Once a modest fishing village, modern Tokyo is a vast metropolis of distinct neighborhoods: Shinjuku's Golden Gai bars, Nihombashi's culinary and shopping scenes, Akihabara's gadgets and manga culture, and Asakusa's pottery shops. Explore museums covering Japanese history and culture, especially the Tokyo National Museum. Visit the Imperial Palace and Senso-ji in Asakusa, enjoy Tokyo's exceptional food scene, and take a selfie at Shibuya Crossing.

Hitachinaka, an Ibaraki port city about 80 miles northeast of Tokyo, is known for its peaceful beaches, lively fish market, and stunning gardens. Once developed as a Hitachi company town in 1994, it now draws visitors to Hitachi Seaside Park, a nearly 500-acre oasis with 170 tulip varieties and millions of blue nemophila. Visit Nakaminato Fish Market for the day's catch, then enjoy Kairakuen Garden, one of Japan's finest.

Miyako is an important fishing port known for salmon, trout, and mackerel. On the estuary of the Hei River facing Miyako Bay and the Pacific, it was hit hard by the 2011 tsunami. The Taro Kanko Hotel, whose lower two floors were washed away but still stands, is preserved as a symbol of resilience. Try sea urchin and ika senbei (squid-extract cookies). Don't miss Jodogahama Beach's jagged white-rock promontory.

Hakodate offers natural beauty, historic buildings, and great food. It is known for hot springs, especially Yunokawa Onsen and the footbath-style ashiyu. Visit Goryokaku Fort for a bird's-eye view of the star-shaped fortress and moat from Goryokaku Tower. Shop in the Bay Area near Hakodate Port, where old red-brick warehouses have become a unique mall, then relax with tea and harbor views.

Aomori is a city steeped in culture and surrounded by unspoiled wilderness. Hike through the serene, verdant landscapes of the Hakkoda Mountains or unwind in the soothing waters of a Tsuta Onsen, a one-thousand-year-old natural hot spring. Immerse yourself in the captivating exhibits at the Nebuta Museum WA RASSE, celebrating the city's famous Nebuta Festival with its magnificent, illuminated floats. Sample the local culinary delights, including fresh seafood and the renowned Aomori apples.

Kushiro, a major fishing port on eastern Hokkaido, is known for vast marshlands and the endangered tancho, or Red-crowned Crane. Tall, elegant, and a symbol of longevity, the crane was thought extinct until a few dozen were found in the Kushiro Marsh in 1920. Now a national park, the marsh supports rich wildlife and over 1,700 cranes. Visit Hokkaido Kushiro Art Museum, then enjoy fresh local cuisine at Kushiro Fisherman's Wharf.

About 30 miles off Alaska's southeast peninsula, Kodiak spans about 5,000 square miles of forests, jagged peaks, and wildlife-rich bays. Nicknamed "Alaska's Emerald Isle," it's a place to leave civilization behind and rediscover nature. Outdoor activities include hiking, bear-watching, and fishing for salmon, halibut, and trout.

Keep your binoculars handy to spot seals, otters and whales. Whittier is the gateway to Prince William Sound, where you can experience incredible glacier cruises and kayak in serene waters. Its unique "one-way-in" tunnel adds to the adventure. The town also provides access to nearby hiking trails and a fascinating WWII history, making it a perfect stop for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

Founded by Russian fur traders as New Archangel in 1799, Sitka was the center of Russia's Alaskan empire until the U.S. bought Alaska in 1867 and raised the Stars and Stripes. Today, picturesque Sitka is known for fishing, a summer classical music festival, and historic attractions. On clear days, it rivals Juneau for scenery and is the only city in southeast Alaska that fronts the Pacific Ocean.

Ketchikan, on the southwest side of Revillagigedo Island, grew around salmon canneries and sawmills. Its name is said to come from the native term "Katch Kanna," meaning "spread wings of a thundering eagle." Once proclaimed the "Salmon Capital of the World," Ketchikan is known for its outstanding totem poles and is a must for anyone interested in Native art. Travelers often come here for their first look at the North Country and are rarely disappointed.

Vancouver blends natural splendor with frontier history, from Gastown's cobblestone streets and Yukon-era roots to one of the city's most vibrant neighborhoods. Visit North America's second-largest Chinatown, then Stanley Park, with old-growth trees and First Nation totem poles. For stunning views, ride the Grouse Mountain Skyride and cross the Capilano Suspension Bridge for a treetop adventure.