Japan

On the edge of a peninsula on the island of Okinawa, the town of Motobu offers a wealth of natural and cultural attractions within minutes of the port. You easily spend an entire day exploring the expansive Ocean Expo Park that stretches along the coast. Here the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is renowned for its enormous Kuroshio Sea tank where you can observe whale sharks and manta rays up close. The park also includes tropical botanical gardens and arboretums, a re-creation of a native Okinawan village from the Ryukyu kingdom era, and the white sands of Emerald Beach.

The island paradise of Miyakojima offers any kind of beach day you could desire, from relaxing on the impossibly soft white sands of Yonaha Maehama Beach to snorkeling the shallow offshore reefs of Yoshino Kaigan Beach or Imugya Marine Garden in search of tropical fish and sea turtles. Certified divers will want to go deeper, as Miyakojima and other nearby islands offer excellent dive sites with underwater caverns, tunnels and coral reefs.

Tucked away in Japan’s subtropical Ryukyu Islands, the beautiful coastline and lush rainforests of the isle of Amami-Oshima are part of a UNESCO World Heritage site valued for its many endemic and rare species and rich biodiversity. The crystal-clear waters of this hidden gem are filled with vibrant coral reefs, and the white sand beaches are so far off the beaten path that you may well find your own private stretch of secluded shoreline.

While it is the largest island in the Yaeyama archipelago, Ishigaki is small enough to traverse in about an hour, giving visitors ample time to explore its tropical beauty. One of the island's most famous attractions is Kabira Bay, renowned for its emerald waters and white sand beaches. Glass-bottom boat tours offer an up-close look at the bay’s colorful coral reefs and tropical marine life.

While the city skyline is dominated by contemporary architecture, Aomori’s most iconic landmark may well be Hirosaki Castle, dating to the 17th century, and the famous cherry trees that blanket the surrounding parkland. Aomori is also known for Nebuta Matsuri, an annual festival of splendid floats that you can experience up close in the Nebuta Warasse Museum. The Aomori Art Museum showcases a world-class collection of modern art including works by Yoshitomo Nara, while the archaeological site of Sannai Maruyama takes you back 6,000 years to the Jomon period.

Located on the eastern coast of Hokkaido, Japan, the city's culture is deeply connected to its natural surroundings, with a strong emphasis on preserving the environment and traditional customs. With opportunities for bird watching, hiking, and boat tours, Kushiro offers a truly immersive experience nature enthusiasts will appreciate. Visit the Kushiro Shitsugen National Park, Japan's largest wetland, home to diverse flora and fauna, including the iconic, red-crowned cranes.

Located on the southernmost tip of Japan's Hokkaido island, the city's culture is influenced by its history as one of the first ports in Japan to open to international trade, resulting in a mix of Japanese and Western architectural styles. Visit the he Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse district, which now house shops, restaurants, and galleries, and the iconic Goryokaku Fort, a star-shaped fort surrounded by a moat and cherry trees. Travelers can also check out the Morning Market, known for its fresh seafood and local products.

This coastal city on the southern tip of Japan's Kyushu Island, is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, rich history, and unique cultural heritage, deeply rooted in its samurai past. Travelers can visit the historic Senganen Garden, a traditional Japanese garden with stunning views of Kagoshima Bay, and the Shimadzu Satsuma Clan Historic Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the region. The majestic Sakurajima volcano dominates the skyline and offers visitors breathtaking views from its observatories.

Fukuoka, a vibrant city on the island of Kyushu, Japan, is a blend of traditional Japanese customs and modern influences, creating a dynamic and welcoming atmosphere. A trip to the historic Fukuoka Castle, provides visitors panoramic views of the city skyline, and the serene Ohori Park, a beautiful park surrounding a scenic pond, is a great place to experience ancient Japanese aesthetics, or visit the bustling Hakata district, known for its vibrant shopping streets and historic temples.

Hiroshima is a city with a poignant history but a vibrant present. Explore the Hiroshima Castle, a beautiful and historically significant structure, and the Shukkeien Garden, a traditional Japanese garden with scenic landscapes and tea houses, or visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, which provides a moving insight into the city's history. For the foodies, Hiroshima is home to the famous okonomiyaki, a savory pancake layered with noodles, vegetables, and meat or seafood, grilled to perfection.