Tokyo
Tokyo offers a mix of ancient Japanese culture and customs mixed with futuristic and state-of-the-art buildings. This makes the capital of Japan very special and fascinating. Not for nothing is Tokyo often the starting and/or end point of your tour of Japan. Early in the morning you can visit the Tsukiji fish market where more than 2,000 tons of fish are traded. Or visit Ebisu Yokocho,one of the city's most traditional neighborhoods where its vibrant narrow streets are filled with traditional Japanese tavernas selling finger food and traditional snacks and beverages. In the Shibuyadistrict lies the world famous Shibuya crossing where more than a thousand people cross when the traffic lights turn green. Also visit the Meiji Shrine,Tokyo's most famous temple, dedicated to the spirit of the late Emperor Meiji. End your tokyo stay at the 333-metre-high Tokyo Tower with stunning views of the metropolis, especially in the evening when the neon lights colorfully illuminate the city.
Osaka
Osaka's flamboyant, cheerful people and delicious food make this city totally worth it. Osaka Castle is perhaps the most famous landmark. The castle was rebuilt in 1931, and the view from the top floor of the surrounding gardens and the city is not to be missed! Osaka is also known as 'Food Capital of the World'. You will find several food stalls on the street with various Japanese delicacies, such as Kushikatsu (fried vegetables on a stick), Okonomiyaki (pancakes with cabbage and meat or shrimp) or Takoyaki (dough balls filled with octopus, ginger and spring onions).
Hiroshima
Hiroshima is inextricably linked to the atomic bomb for everyone, so a visit to the Peace Memorial Park with the museum and memorial should not be missed. Fortunately, the city also has more to see than memories of that one devastating day, such as the beautiful (walking) garden Shukkei-en, Hiroshima Castle and the island of Miyajima with the temple Itsukushima Jinja, the main Shinto shrine that stands at high tide with its feet in the water. The whole area around the shrine is beautiful.
