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.

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.

In 1880, Joe Juneau and Richard Harris were prospecting for gold with the help of Indian guides. Here they discovered nuggets "as large as beans" at the mouth of the aptly named Gold Creek. Out of their discoveries came three of the largest gold digs in the world where more than $150 million in gold was mined. Juneau's surrounding beauty and natural wonders have attracted cruise ship travelers for over a century, with steamship companies bringing tourists here since the early 1880's.

Beginning in 1897, Skagway was the starting point for more than 40,000 gold-rush stampeders bound for the Yukon via the Chilkoot Trail. In downtown Skagway, over 20 historic buildings preserve the Klondike Gold Rush era, with locals in period costume sharing the town's bawdy history. Ride the historic White Pass & Yukon Route Railway as it climbs 3,000 feet into scenic mountains past Bridal Veil Falls and Inspiration Point.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.