Visit Kyoto's breathtaking temples and shrines, ancient Nara's magnificent sacred sites, and Nara Park with its deer and Kasuga Grand Shrine. Tour Osaka's imposing castle, shop in Kobe for silks, ceramics, paper parasols, artworks and pottery, and enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine or a superb Kobe beef dinner, exquisitely prepared and served.

Kochi is rich in natural beauty: a Kuroshio-warmed coastline, the clear Shimanto River, and deep green forests. In southern Shikoku, it is bordered by mountains to the north and traces Tosa Bay with an arc-like coast, from Cape Muroto in the east to Cape Ashizuri in the west, with sandy beaches between. It also features the mystical Ryuga-do limestone caves and the scenic pine-lined Katsurahama Beach.

Lovers of hot spring resorts, rejoice. Perched hillside on the southern Japanese island of Kyushu, Beppu bubbles with life thanks to a preponderance of onsen (hot springs). Enjoy a variety of rejuvenating bath types, from heated sand to traditional steam to hot mud. As one of the country's most popular spots for enjoying a long, hot soak, most visitors find Beppu to be a delightful opportunity to absorb the more relaxed side of Japan's vibrant culture.

Kagoshima is Japan's southernmost major city, and is nicknamed the "Naples of the Eastern World," based on its caldera bay location, hot climate, and volcano. The majestic view of Mt Sakurajima, one of the world's most active volcanoes, dominates the city's landscape, towering over the beautiful Kinko Bay. The city abounds in historic sightseeing spots such as the memorial site of St. Francisco Xavier, who landed in Kagoshima and first introduced Christianity to Japan.

Nagasaki, Japan's early gateway to the West, offers European-style homes, a busy harbor, fusion cuisine, and Castella sponge cake from Portuguese missionaries. It is also marked by the second atomic bomb, so a visit to Peace Park is a deeply moving must. Take in views from Mount Inasayama, drive through the countryside to Arita, birthplace of Japanese porcelain, and return to Nagasaki's oldest Chinatown for Chinese food adapted to Japanese tastes.

Embrace the tranquil charm of Gangjeong Village on Jeju Island's volcanic southern coast. This peaceful port town offers scenic walks along dramatic lava rock cliffs and a taste of Korea's freshest seafood, right from the morning catch. Enjoy the island's warm hospitality as you explore local temples and markets. Explore further on a hike over Hallasan's lush slopes or wander to Jeongbang Waterfall to witness its cascades falling directly into the sea.

Explore Hakata, the lively heart of Fukuoka, where modern energy meets rich culinary tradition. Stroll the ruins of Fukuoka Castle in Maizuru Park for sweeping city views and a taste of samurai history. Be sure to sample world-famous Hakata ramen, famous for its rich, creamy pork bone broth, firm thin noodles and no-frills toppings. Near Kushida Shrine, shop for woven textiles, dolls and more at the Hakata Traditional Craft Center.

Hiroshima, surrounded by forests and hot springs, is a symbol of rebirth and resilience. Key sites recall the first atomic bomb attack of Aug. 6, 1945: Peace Memorial Park, the Atomic Bomb Dome (a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1996), and the Children's Peace Monument. Take a ferry to Itsukushima, a sacred Shinto island with the iconic "floating" torii gate. End with Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki.

Visit Kyoto's breathtaking temples and shrines, ancient Nara's magnificent sacred sites, and Nara Park with its deer and Kasuga Grand Shrine. Tour Osaka's imposing castle, shop in Kobe for silks, ceramics, paper parasols, artworks and pottery, and enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine or a superb Kobe beef dinner, exquisitely prepared and served.