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Osaka, Japan
Start your trip in Japan's street food capital — don't miss Dotonbori and takoyaki in Shinsekai. The Osaka Castle grounds begin showing early autumn colours in late October. Use Osaka as a base for day trips to Nara to see the famous free-roaming deer.
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Kyoto, Japan
Late October brings stunning early autumn foliage to Arashiyama and the temples of Higashiyama. Explore Fushimi Inari's thousands of torii gates and wander the preserved geisha district of Gion at dusk. Try kaiseki cuisine for an authentic Kyoto dining experience.
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Hiroshima, Japan
The Peace Memorial Park and Museum offer a deeply moving and essential experience. Take a short ferry to Miyajima Island to see the iconic floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine. Try Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, which is layered rather than mixed, for a local favourite.
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Fukuoka, Japan
Fukuoka is the birthplace of tonkotsu ramen — hit the famous Nakasu yatai (open-air food stalls) along the river at night. Canal City is a lively shopping hub and Ohori Park is lovely for an autumn stroll. The city has a youthful, relaxed energy that sets it apart from larger Japanese metropolises.
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Nagasaki, Japan
Nagasaki has a uniquely layered history shaped by Dutch, Chinese, and Portuguese influences visible in its architecture and food. Visit the Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum, then explore the charming Glover Garden overlooking the harbour. Try champon noodles and castella sponge cake, both local specialties with foreign origins.
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Kagoshima, Japan
Kagoshima sits dramatically opposite the active Sakurajima volcano, which you can visit by ferry in under 15 minutes. The city has a subtropical feel and is known for its black pork (kurobuta) and sweet potato shochu. Sengan-en, a traditional garden with the volcano as its backdrop, is one of Japan's most scenic spots.