12 Nights Asia

Cheju Island

Yatsushiro is a city located in Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan

Japans southernmost major city, Kagoshima delivers a memorable mix of unique cuisine, historical attractions and outdoor activities in its temperate weather. Take the short ferry ride from the port to Sakurajima Yogan Nagisa Park and immerse yourself in its natural grandeur ? take a rejuvenating soak in the 100-meter-long natural hot spring, and take in views of the areas most iconic landmark: Sakurajima volcano, nicknamed the Vesuvius of Japan. Then, take in sweeping bayside vistas at Sengan-en, the elegant estate of the Shimadzu samurai clan, and stroll through its cherry blossom-filled gardens. Cruise to Kagoshima and head to Yurigahama Beach, with its bright waters and mysterious sandbar that appears each month in a slightly different spot, depending on the tides.

A bustling metropolis dotted with leafy parks and ancient shrines, Hiroshima is a city with deep historical significance that has its eyes on the future. Here, youll find rebuilt traditional castles standing next to modern skyscrapers. Get a better understanding of the citys place in 20th-century history at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. Walk mindfully through the Peace Park area ? see the Cenotaph for the atomic bomb victims and the towering Peace Flame monument overlooking a reflecting pool. Then, check out nearby Miyajima Island: See Itsukushima-jinja Shrine, a floating shrine gate based on a 6th-century original. Cruise to Hiroshima, Japan and hike Mount Misen ? the summit offers quiet temples and dramatic views of the surrounding peaks.

Born in 300 AD as Naniwa, ancient Osaka has survived an earthquake and two fires to grow into one of Japan's largest, most prosperous cities. The graceful intersection of elongated canals and several parks makes for a beautiful city and a gorgeous waterfront.

Born in 300 AD as Naniwa, ancient Osaka has survived an earthquake and two fires to grow into one of Japan's largest, most prosperous cities. The graceful intersection of elongated canals and several parks makes for a beautiful city and a gorgeous waterfront.

The skyline at Shimizu port is dominated by one of Japans most distinctive sites: snow-capped Mt. Fuji. Head to Miho-no-Matsubara, a pristine beach flanked by a picturesque pine grove, where you can take in some of the clearest views of Japans tallest mountain. Cruise to Mt. Fuji and take the one-hour drive from the port to Fuji itself for some hiking ? the mountain is relatively approachable climb appropriate even for beginners, and you dont have to hike all the way to the summit. Dont miss the ancient shrines that surround this volcanic landmark: Visit Fujisan Hongu Sengentaisha shrine, built to appease Fujis volcanic deity. Or see Kunouzan Toshogu shrine, a masterpiece of Japanese lacquer and woodwork.

Yokohama is easily accessible from Tokyo, but there's enough to see and do here that it's worth more than a day trip. Visit Minato Marai 21, a popular, modern neighborhood with great shopping and tons of restaurant options. TripAdvisor travelers also recommend stopping at Big Wharf (Osanbashi Pier), a uniquely shaped pier with spectacular views.

Yokohama is easily accessible from Tokyo, but there's enough to see and do here that it's worth more than a day trip. Visit Minato Marai 21, a popular, modern neighborhood with great shopping and tons of restaurant options. TripAdvisor travelers also recommend stopping at Big Wharf (Osanbashi Pier), a uniquely shaped pier with spectacular views.